A funeral-sermon for the reverend, holy and excellent divine, Mr. Richard Baxter who deceased Decemb. 8, 1691 : with an account of his life / by William Bates ... Bates, William, 1625-1699. 1692 Approx. 117 KB of XML-encoded text transcribed from 73 1-bit group-IV TIFF page images. Text Creation Partnership, Ann Arbor, MI ; Oxford (UK) : 2005-03 (EEBO-TCP Phase 1). A26788 Wing B1107 ESTC R21548 12617886 ocm 12617886 64427 This keyboarded and encoded edition of the work described above is co-owned by the institutions providing financial support to the Early English Books Online Text Creation Partnership. This Phase I text is available for reuse, according to the terms of Creative Commons 0 1.0 Universal . The text can be copied, modified, distributed and performed, even for commercial purposes, all without asking permission. Early English books online. (EEBO-TCP ; phase 1, no. A26788) Transcribed from: (Early English Books Online ; image set 64427) Images scanned from microfilm: (Early English books, 1641-1700 ; 343:7) A funeral-sermon for the reverend, holy and excellent divine, Mr. Richard Baxter who deceased Decemb. 8, 1691 : with an account of his life / by William Bates ... Bates, William, 1625-1699. [8], 132 [i.e. 124], [4] p. Printed for Brab. Aylmer ..., London : 1692. Advertisements: p. [1]-[4] at end. Reproduction of original in Union Theological Seminary Library, New York. Marginal notes. Created by converting TCP files to TEI P5 using tcp2tei.xsl, TEI @ Oxford. Re-processed by University of Nebraska-Lincoln and Northwestern, with changes to facilitate morpho-syntactic tagging. Gap elements of known extent have been transformed into placeholder characters or elements to simplify the filling in of gaps by user contributors. 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Copies of the texts have been issued variously as SGML (TCP schema; ASCII text with mnemonic sdata character entities); displayable XML (TCP schema; characters represented either as UTF-8 Unicode or text strings within braces); or lossless XML (TEI P5, characters represented either as UTF-8 Unicode or TEI g elements). Keying and markup guidelines are available at the Text Creation Partnership web site . eng Baxter, Richard, 1615-1691. Funeral sermons. Sermons, English. 2004-09 TCP Assigned for keying and markup 2004-10 SPi Global Keyed and coded from ProQuest page images 2004-11 Melanie Sanders Sampled and proofread 2004-11 Melanie Sanders Text and markup reviewed and edited 2005-01 pfs Batch review (QC) and XML conversion A Funeral-Sermon FOR THE Reverend , Holy and Excellent DIVINE , Mr. Richard Baxter , Who deceased Decemb. 8. 1691. WITH An Account of His LIFE . By WILLIAM BATES , D. D. LONDON , Printed for Brab . Aylmer , at the Three Pigeons against the Royal Exchange in Cornhill . 1692. To the Right Worshipfull , and his much Honoured Friend , Sr Henry Ashurst , Baronet . SIR , YOur Noble and Constant Kindness to Mr. Baxter Living , and your Honourable Respect to him Dead , have induced me to inscribe the following Memorial of him to your Name . He was most worthy of your highest Esteem and Love , for the first Impressions of Heaven upon your Soul , were in Reading his unvalued Book of the Saints Everlasting Rest. This kindled a mutual Affection in your Breasts : his Love was Directing , Counselling , and Exciting you to secure your Future Happiness : your Love was Observant , Gratefull , and Beneficent to him . The Sincerity and Generosity of your Friendship , was very evident , in your appearing and standing by him , when he was so roughly and unrighteously handled , by one , who was the dishonour of this Ages Law ; whose Deportment in a high place of Judicature , was so contrary to Wisdom , Humanity , and Justice , that there need no foul words to make his Name odious . Of this and your other Favours Mr. Baxter retain'd a dear and lasting Sense ; and in his dying hours declared , that you had been the best friend he ever had . He has finished his Course , and received his Crown : His Name will shine longer than his Enemies shall bark . I cannot omit the mentioning , that Mr. Boyle and Mr. Baxter , those incomparable Persons in their several Studies , and dear Friends , died within a short space of one another . Mr. Boyle was engaged in the Contemplation of the Design and Architecture of the visible World , and made rare discoveries in the system of Nature : not for Curiosity and barren Speculation , but to admire and adore the Perfections of the Deity in the Variety , Order , Beauty , and marvellous Artifice of the Creatures that compose this great Universe . Mr. Baxter was conversant in the invisible World : his Mind was constantly applied to understand the harmonious Agreement of the Divine Attributes in the Oeconomy of our Salvation , and to restore Men to the Favour and Image of God. They are now admitted into the inlightned and purified Society above : where the immense Volumes of the Divine Wisdom are laid open , and by one glance of an eye , they discover more perfectly the Causes , Effects , and Concatenation of all things in Heaven and Earth , than the most diligent Inquirers can do here , in a thousand years Study , though they had the Sagacity of Solomon . By the Light of Glory , they see the face of God , and are satisfied with his likeness for ever . 'T is a high honour to you , that Mr. Boyle and Mr. Baxter should by their Last Will nominate you amongst their Executors . It was the Saying of a Wise Roman , Malo divi Augusti judicium , quam beneficium . I had rather have the Esteem of the Emperour Augustus than his Gifts : for he was an understanding Prince , and his Esteem was very Honourable to a Person . That two who so excell'd in Wisdom and Goodness , should commit to your Trust the disposal of their Estates for the Uses of Piety and Charity , is a more noble Testimony of their Esteem of your Prudence and inviolable Integrity , than if they had bequeathed to you rich Legacies . It is a satisfaction to me , that I have complied with Mr. Baxter's desire in Preaching his Funeral-Sermon , and with yours in Publishing it . I shall unfeignedly recommend Your self , your excellent Lady , and vertuous Children , to the Divine Mercies : and remain , with great Respect , SIR , Your humble and faithfull Servant , William Bates . A SERMON On the DEATH of Mr. Richard Baxter . Luke 23.46 . And when Jesus had cried with a loud Voice , he said , Father , into thy Hands I commend my Spirit . THE Words are the Prayer of our Blessed Saviour in the Extremity of his Passion . His unrighteous and implacable Enemies had nail'd his Body to the Cross , but they had no power over his Spirit , that was ready to take its flight to the Sanctuary of Life and Immortality . This dying Prayer of Christ is a Pattern for sincere Christians : He has invested them with the Relation of Children of God ; and authorises them by his Example , to commend their departing Spirits to his powerful Love. The Observation I shall unfold and apply , is this : 'T is the Priviledg of dying Saints , to commend their Spirits into the Hands of their Heavenly Father . In discoursing of this , I shall , I. Consider the Foundation of this Priviledg . II. Shew what a blessed Priviledg this is . III. Apply it . I. The Foundation of this Priviledg is to be consider'd : This is built upon two things . 1. The Relation of God to the Saints . 2. His Perfections joined with that Relation . 1. The Relation of God to the Saints . The Title of Father is upon several Accounts attributed to God. ( 1. ) He is a Father by Creation : O Lord , thou art our Father : we are the Clay , thou art the Potter , we are the Work of thine Hands . He formed Man's Body into a Majestick Figure , becoming his original State , being Lord of the lower World. But in a peculiar manner he is stiled the Father of Spirits : they have a near Alliance , and Resemblance of the Father of Lights , in their intellectual Powers , and their immortal Nature . From hence it is , the Angels are called the Sons of God : They are the eldest Off-spring of his Power . Adam has the Title of the Son of God. And since the Fall , Men are called God's Offspring . There is an indelible Character of Dignity engraven in the reasonable Nature by the Hand of God. But since Man turn'd Rebel to his Creator and Father , this endearing obliging Relation aggravates his Rebellion , but gives him no Interest in the Paternal Love of God , of which he has made a deadly Forfeiture . 'T is threatned against ignorant perverse Sinners , He that made them , will not save them . ( 2. ) Upon the account of external Calling and Profession , there is an intercurrent Relation of Father and Sons between God and his People . Thus the Posterity of Seth are called the Sons of God : and the entire Nation of the Jews are so stiled ; When Israel was young , I called my Son out of Egypt . And all that have received Baptism , the Seal of the holy Covenant , and profess Christianity , in this general Sense may be called the Children of God. But 't is not the outward Dedication that entitles Men to a saving Interest in God , unless they live according to that Dedication . There are baptized Infidels , as well as unbaptized . How many every day fall as deep as Hell , whose hopes were high , on the account of their external Christianity . ( 3. ) God is our Father upon a more excellent Account , by Renovation and Adoption . The natural Man is what St. Paul saith of the voluptuous Widow , dead while he lives . There is not only a cessation of spiritual Acts , but an utter incapacity to perform them : he cannot obey nor enjoy God. Now the renewing of Man is called a Regeneration : Our Saviour tells Nicodemus , Verily I say unto you , Vnless a Man be born again , he cannot enter into the Kingdom of Heaven . The reason of the Expression is , because there is a new Nature , spiritual , holy and heavenly , communicated , different from the carnal , polluted and earthly Nature , derived from the first Adam . And as the Relation of a Father results from the communicating a vital active Principle to another , in that kind of Life like his own : so God by making us Partakers of a Divine Nature , of his Life and Image , is stiled our Father : Of his own Will beg at he us , with the Word of Truth . And we are said , to be born again , not of corruptible Seed , but incorruptible , by the Word of God , which liveth and abideth for ever . By the Divine Influence , the Word of God implants in them such Qualities and Dispositions whereby they resemble God , are holy , as he is holy , in all manner of Conversation . They are called godly , as they are like him in their Minds , Affections and Actions . And to such God has the Heart and Eye of a Father , to regard and relieve them in all their Exigencies . Like as a Father pities his Children , so the Lord pities them that serve him . We are also the Children of God by Adoption . This heavenly Privilege is obtained for us by the meritorious Sufferings of Christ , and is founded in our Union with him . God sent his Son , that he might redeem them that were under the Law , that they might receive the Adoption of Sons . For his sake we are not only pardoned , but preferr'd to this Heavenly Dignity . 'T is worthy of Observation , that the Degrees of our Redemption mentioned in Scripture , have annex'd to them parallel degrees of our Adoption . Thus when 't is said , We are redeemed from the Curse of the Law , 't is added , That we might receive the Adoption of Sons . When 't is said , We are freed from the servile Spirit of the Law , it follows , We have received the Spirit of Adoption , whereby we cry , Abba , Father . And the Apostle tells us , That the redemption of our Bodies from the bondage of Corruption , into the glorious Liberty of the Sons of God , is our Adoption , that is the manifestation of it before all the World. Our Adoption is founded in our Union with Christ. A Member of Christ , and a Son of God are the same : 'T is therefore said , As many as received him , to them gave he Power , or Privilege , to become the Sons of God , even to them that believe on his Name . And ye are all the Sons of God , by Faith in Jesus Christ. This is the vital Band of our Union with Christ , and invests us with his Relation to God. When he was to leave the World , he sends this comfortable Message to his Disciples ; Go , tell my Brethren , I ascend to my Father and your Father , to my God and your God. His Relation has the precedence in Order , Dignity and Causality . He is God's own Son , in a sense infinitely high and proper to himself : To which of the Angels said he at any time , Thou art my Son , to day have I begotten thee ? The sublimest Prophet breaks forth with Wonder , Who shall declare his Generation ? 'T is above our Capacity and Conception . It becomes us to acquiesce in what the Scripture reveals . He is the eternal Word and Wisdom of God , the Brightness of his Father's Glory . This is the most fit Comparison : for as Light is productive of Light without any diminution ; so the Eternal Father communicated his Essence to the Son. In short , God is Christ's Father by Nature , and God by Dispensation ; he is our God as the Author of Nature , and our Father by Adoption . Before I proceed , it is fit to observe the Excellence of the Evangelical Adoption above the Civil Adoption among Men. ( 1. ) Adoption is a legal Act in imitation of Nature , for the Comfort of those who are without Children . But God had a Son , the Heir of his Love and Glory . His adopting Love is heightned by considering our Meanness and Vileness : we are but a little breathing Dust , worthless Rebels . The Apostle cries out in a rapture of Admiration and Joy , Behold what manner of Love the Father hath bestowed upon us , that we should be called the Sons of God! If we consider the natural Distance between God and us , as he is the Creator , and we are the Works of his Hands , 't is truly infinite ; but the moral Distance between the holy righteous God and the guilty polluted Creature , is , if it were possible , more than infinite : Love inconceivable ! That releases us from Bondage , and adopts us into the Line of Heaven . If we admire any thing of this World in comparison of it , 't is a sign we have no share in this Privilege . ( 2. ) Civil Adoption conveys no Praise-worthy Qualities into the Person that is adopted . A King may adopt one to be his Son , and the Heir of his Kingdom , but cannot endow him with a Royalty of Spirit , with ruling Wisdom , with Justice and Equity , Clemency and Bounty , with Magnanimity and Fortitude , that may qualify him to manage the Scepter . The adopted Prince may be of a low sordid Disposition , a Slave to his vile Lusts , and designing to enslave others . But all the adopted Sons of God are divinely renewed ; they are purified from defiling & debasing Lusts , and are adorn'd with all the Graces of the Spirit , that God is not ashamed to be called their God and Father , nor Christ ashamed to call them Brethren . Now from this special Relation and Interest of God in the Saints , there is a sure Foundation of their Trust in his saving Mercy . David addresses himself to God for his preservation from imminent Danger , I am thine , save me : As if his miscarrying would be a Loss to God , who had so dear a Propriety in him . I come now to the second thing that encourages the praying Faith of the Saints when they leave the World , to commend their Souls to him , His Perfections joined with his Relation : His Love inclines , his Truth engages , and his Power enables him to bring them safely to Heaven . 1. His Love. This is the brightest Ray of the Deity , the first and clearest Notion we have of God. St. John tells us , God is Love. His Love cannot be fully express'd by the dearest Relations and Affections in Nature . The Relation of Parents , as 't is most deeply implanted in Nature , so it implies the most cordial , strong and tender Affection . But as God is infinitely greater and better than earthly Parents ; so he equally excels them , as in his Abilities , so in his good Will to his Children . Our Saviour directs us , Call no Man Father upon Earth , for one is your Father , which is in Heaven : The Title and Love of a Father is peculiar to him . Our Saviour argues , If you that are evil , know how to give good things to your Children , how much more shall your heavenly Father to those that ask him ? The Inference is strong , not only from the Divine Authority of the Speaker , but from the native Perspicuity of the Things : for the Love of an earthly Father is but an Infusion into his Breast from the heavenly Father , and but a faint resemblance of his Love. The Love of a Mother is more tender and endearing than of a Father : Even a fearful Hen will fly upon Death , to preserve its tender Brood from the Devourer : Yet the Love of God to his Children far excels it . Can a Woman forget her sucking Child ? What Heart , what Marble is in her Breast so incompassionate and unrelenting , as to neglect her helpless Infant ? She may , but , saith God , I will never forget thee . The Seraphims , those bright and unperishing Flames , are but faint and cold , in comparison of God's Love to his Children . 'T is observable how the Love of God to them expresses it self in all the Notions of Propriety and Preciousness , to make it more sensible to us . They are stiled his Treasure , his Jewels , the most precious part of his Treasure , the Jewels of his Crown , that are the richest Jewels . Now will he throw away his Treasure , or suffer the cruel Enemy to rob him of his Jewels ? Will he not take them into his safe Custody ? 'T is to be observed , that the Esteem and Affection of God principally respects the Souls of his Children : Their Souls have an original Affinity with him in their Substance as Spirits : and being born again of the Spirit , they are Spirit in their Divine Qualities & Endowments , and more endear'd to him than by their first Alliance . His tender Care to preserve them , will be correspondent to his Valuation and Love. Moreover , the Condition of departing Souls affords another Argument of reliance upon his Love ; for they leave this visible World , with all their Supports and Comforts ; they are stripp'd of all sensible Securities : And will he leave them fatherless in such a forlorn and desolate State ? His Love is express'd by Mercy , Compassion , Pity , melting Affections , that are most tenderly moved when the beloved Object is in Distress . Our Saviour propounds an Argument for dependance upon the delivering Love of God , from the Exigence of his People ; Shall not God deliver his own Elect , the Designation of Love , who cry day and night to him ? He will do it speedily . Love is never more ardent and active than in times of Distress . Therefore when his dying Children are deprived of all their Hopes and dependance upon Creatures , and fly to him for Protection and Relief , will he not hear their mournful Requests , and grant their fainting Desires ? When their earthly Tabernacles are so ruinous , that they are forc'd to dislodg , will the Love of a Heavenly Father suffer their naked Souls to wander in the vast Regions of the other World , seeking Rest , and finding none ? Certainly he will bring them into his reviving Presence . If Divine Love be so condescending , that the high and lofty One that inhabits Eternity , dwells with the humble and contrite Spirit , to revive the Spirit of the Humble , when they are confin'd to our lowly Earth , we may be assur'd , when that Spirit shall be devested of Flesh , he will bring it to Heaven the Temple of his Glory , to be with him for ever . 'T is greater Love for a King to lay aside his State , and dwell in a mean Cottage with his Favourite , than to receive him into his Palace , and communicate to him of his rich Abundance . 'T is another most comfortable Consideration , that the Love of God is unvariable towards his Children : His Love is the sole moving Cause of our filial Relation to him : Of his own Will he begat us by the Word of Truth . His Soveraign free Love was the Principle of his electing any to the Dignity of being his Children : This Love is as unchangeable as free ; and Election that proceeds from it , is as unchangeable as his Love. What can induce him to alter his Affection towards them ? For such is the perfection of his Knowledg , that he can never be surprized by a sudden new Event , that may cause a change in his Mind and Will. He foresaw all the Sins of his People , with their provoking Aggravations . Now if the foresight of them did not hinder his electing Love in its rise , can they frustrate its end , the bringing of them to Glory ? Besides , we may argue from what his Love has done for his Children , to what he will do : He has given his Son and Spirit to them , the surest Signs of his Love , if we consider the unvaluable Excellence of the Gifts , and the Design of the Giver . The Son of God is the most excellent Gift of his Love , as undeserved , as he was undesired : And from hence the Apostle argues , He that gave his Son for us all , how much more will he with him give us all things ? Blessed God! What richer Evidence , and more convincing Demonstration can there be of thy Love ? Will he not with him give us all things ? The Inference is direct and conclusive , with respect to temporal and eternal Things . He will give to his Children in the present World , whatever his Wisdom , in conjunction with his Love , sees good for them . To illustrate this by a low and familiar Instance ; If a Mother bestows upon her Daughter rich Jewels for her Marriage-Ornaments , will she deny her Pins to dress her ? And we may as strongly argue , that with his Son he will give us eternal Blessings . Will he give us the Tree of Life , and not permit us to eat of the Fruit of it ? What was the design of his Counsel and Compassion , in giving his Son to be a Sacrifice for us , but to restore us to his Favour ? The Apostle reasons strongly , If when we were Enemies , we were reconciled to God by the Death of his Son , much more being reconciled , we shall be saved by his Life . He has paid our Ransom , and revers'd the Sentence of Condemnation against us ; and it invincibly follows , he can more easily accomplish our Happiness in Heaven . If Love justify a Sinner , it will glorify a Saint . And as the Gift of the Son , so the most precious Gift of the Spirit to God's Children , to make them holy and heavenly , is the most certain sign of his Love to them . The Apostle in the fullest expression speaks of it ; God who is rich in Mercy , for his great Love wherewith he has loved us , even when we were dead in Sins , quickned us together with Christ : By Grace ye are saved . Sanctification is the effect of rich Mercy , great Love , and saving Grace . The Children of God are seal'd by the Holy Spirit to the Day of Redemption : that Seal distinguishes them from the obstinate and polluted World , and ratifies the conveyance of eternal Life to them . The Spirit is stiled the Earnest of the Inheritance . His dwelling in the Saints by his sanctifying and comforting Operations , is an Earnest of their dwelling with God in his Sanctuary above . From hence the Apostle propounds a strong Argument to assure the Saints , upon their leaving this World , of their reception into Heaven ; Now he that hath wrought us for the self-same thing , is God ; and the Almighty always obtains his End : who hath also given us the earnest of his Spirit . Holiness is the Morning-Star of the great Day ; Grace is the Preparative and Assurance of Glory : For altho the Saints are in themselves mutable , and while there remains Corruption within , and a tempting World without , are liable to falling away , yet the free and powerful Love of God that revived them when dead , will preserve them living ; that which raised them from the Grave , will prevent their relapsing into it . The Gifts of God are without Repentance . How triumphantly does the Apostle express his Confidence , Who shall separate us from the Love of God ? Shall Tribulation , or Distress , or Persecution , or Famine , or Nakedness , or Peril , or Sword ? These are the most powerful Terrors that the perverse World , in combination with the Devil , can make use of to constrain us to desert the Service of God ; but they are vain . Nay , in all these things we are more than Conquerors , through him that loved us : For I am perswaded , that neither Death , nor Life , nor Angels , nor Principalities , nor Powers , nor Things present , nor Things to come , nor Height , nor Depth , nor any other Creature , shall be able to separate us from the Love of God , that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. This blessed Assurance of the Apostle is not rais'd from his extraordinary Privileges , not from the apparition of Angels to him , nor his rapture to Paradise , nor special Revelations , but from the Love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord , that everlastingly embraces all his Children . Briefly , in that God has given his Son to die for us , and his Spirit to live in us , his Son to purchase and prepare Heaven for us , his Spirit to prepare us for Heaven , a dying Saint may with blessed Tranquillity commend his Soul into God's Hands . I have more particularly considered the Fatherly Love of God , what a strong Security it affords to his Children , that he will never leave them , in that no Point requires and deserves more Confirmation , and weight of Argument to press it down into our distrustful Hearts . 2. The Divine Truth affords a strong Security to the Children of God , to commend their Souls to him at last . Truth is an Attribute as essential and dear to God as any of his Perfections . And in the Accomplishment of our Salvation , he ordered all things becoming to his Wisdom , that is for the illustration of all his principal Attributes , and accordingly design'd the Glory of his Truth equally with the Honour of his Mercy . Thus he declares to his chosen People , Know therefore that the Lord thy God , he is God , the faithful God , which keepeth Covenant and Mercy , with them that love him , and keep his Commandments . The Attribute that is set next to the Deity , as most sacred , is the Faithful God ; and that further express'd , keeping Covenant and Mercy ; for he delights in fulfilling his Promises , as in the freest Acts of Mercy . The Psalmist breaks forth with the affectionate Praises of these Attributes , I will worship towards thy holy Temple , and praise thy Name for thy loving Kindness and thy Truth : for thou hast magnified thy Word above all thy Name . His Word here immediately signifies his Promise , that has its rise from his loving Kindness , and its performance from his Truth . This he magnifies both with respect to the matter of his Promises that are exceeding great and precious , and the fulfilling them above all that we can ask or think . God cannot repent or lie ; his Counsels are unretractable , from the Immutability of his Nature ; his Promises are infallible , from his Fidelity : they are as unchangeable as the Sun and Stars in their appointed Courses ; nay , more stable than the Centre : for Heaven and Earth shall pass away , but not a tittle of his Promises , and our Hopes be unfulfilled . If the Frame of Nature were dissolved , it would be no loss to God , who is glorious and blessed in his own Perfections : but if his Promises fail , the Honour of his Truth would be impair'd and blemish'd . The Psalmist saith , Those that know thy Name , will trust in thee : Those who know the Creature , its Levity , Mutability and Mortality , will be discourag'd from trusting in it ; but those who know the eternal Constancy of God in his Nature and Promises , will securely rely upon him . Now the Promises , the Declarations of God's Love , without which we cannot have any solid and sustaining Hope in our Death , assure us of God's receiving the separate Spirits of his Children . There was a constant clearness , tho not in that degree of Light as since the appearance of Christ , of the Happiness of the departed Saints . Dying Jacob breaks forth with a lively Hope , O Lord , I have waited for thy Salvation . Job says , Tho he kill me , yet will I trust in him ; that is , for his Almighty Mercy in the next State. The Psalmist expresses his Confidence , Thou wilt guide me by thy Counsel , and receive me into thy Glory . After the safe conducting him through a World of Troubles and Temptations , he would bring him to Heaven , a Place of equal Purity and Glory . David when he was in pressing Peril , addresses to God , Into thy Hands I commend my Spirit , to be preserved as a precious Depositum ; thou hast redeemed me , O Lord God of Truth . His Assurance is built on God's Right and Title to him , Thou hast redeemed me , and his everlasting Fidelity . The Apostle speaks with full assurance , We know that if our earthly House of this Tabernacle be dissolved , we have a Building of God eternal in the Heavens . And , we are confident , I say , rather to be absent from the Body , and present with the Lord. St. Peter encourages Christians when surrounded with Death , to commit their Souls to him : Wherefore let them that suffer according to the Will of God , commit the keeping of their Souls to him in wel-doing , as unto a faithful Creator . He encourageth them to encounter Death in its most formidable Pomp , by considering their Souls shall be safe for ever , upon the account of God's Right and Interest in them , and his Fidelity : he has an original Right in them by the first Creation , as they are intellectual immortal Spirits in their Nature , but a nearer and more especial Right by a new and nobler Creation , as they are renewed Spirits , made like to him in his Holiness , the most Divine Perfection . The Relation of Creator implies his omnipotent Love , and the Attribute of Faithful , his eternal Love declar'd in his Promises . There can never be the least cause to charge him with Insincerity or Inconstancy . The Favour of God is round about the Righteous as a Shield : And his Faithfulness is round about him , that he is always ready to perform his Promise to them . They may safely trust the worth of their Souls , and the weight of Eternity with him , who has said , he will never leave them , nor forsake them . Besides , the Promise of a Reward to the obedient Children of God , is secur'd not only by his Fidelity , but the declar'd Equity of his Proceedings in his final Judgment . 'T is a Regality invested in the Crown of Heaven to dispense Rewards : Whoever comes to God , must believe that he is , and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him . His Being and rewarding Bounty are the Foundations of Religion . 'T is true , such is the Distance between God and the Creature , and the eternal Obligations of it to God , that it can challenge nothing from God , as due to its Merit . Justice unqualified with Bounty and Clemency , owes nothing to the most excellent Obedience of the Creature , tho innocent . But since the Fall , our best Works are defective and defiled , and want Pardon ; and our heaviest Sufferings are but light in the Ballance , against the exceeding Weight of Glory . But the Apostle tells the Thessalonians , It is a righteous thing with God to recompense Tribulation to them who trouble you : and to you who are troubled , rest with us . Consider them in the Comparison ; 'T is becoming his governing Justice to punish the unrighteous Persecutors , and reward his faithful Servants who suffer for his Glory . Now the present Life is the Day for our Work , as our Saviour saith , I must do the Work of him that sent me , while 't is called to Day : And at Death , the Spirit returns to God that gave it , in order to Judgment , either fatal or favourable , according to the tenor of Mens good Works , and the desert of their bad . The Promise is to them , who by patient continuance in wel-doing , seek for Glory , and Honour , and Immortality , they shall obtain eternal Life . Our Saviour encourages his suffering Servants , Be faithful to the Death , and I will give you the Crown of Life . The compleat Reward is reserved to the great Day of universal Recompences , when the Sons of God by Regeneration , shall be the Sons of a glorious Resurrection . But the righteous Judg will give a present Reward at the end of the Day , to all that with unfainting Perseverance have perform'd his Work. Our Saviour tells us , that all who wrought in the Vineyard , receiv'd their Rewards in the last Hour of the Day : The Parallel is instructive , that when the Night of Death comes , the Reward will be dispens'd . There is a Law recorded concerning the paying Wages to those who were hir'd , that it should be in the end of the Day ; that it should not be detain'd all Night with thee until the Morning . The Allusion is very congruous , that God will fulfil his own Law to his Sons that serve him . The Reward shall not abide with him the long dark Interval , the Night , wherein their Bodies sleep in the Grave , till the Morning of the Resurrection . Our Saviour promised the dying Penitent , To day shalt thou be with me in Paradise . The End of our Faith is immediately attended with the Salvation of the Soul : The Labour of Faith being finish'd , is productive of the beatifick Vision in the State of Light and Glory . The Sum is , That the Children of God , who have by constant Conversation sincerely endeavoured to please and glorify him , may with an entire Resignation commit their Souls to his Hands , as if an Angel were sent from Heaven to them in their dying Agonies , with the comfortable Message , that they should presently be with God. 3. The Divine Power , in conjunction with Love and Truth , is the Foundation of our secure dependance upon God in our last Hours . This Consideration is absolutely necessary for our sure Trust : For Love without Power is ineffectual , and Power without Love of no comfortable Advantage to us . The Apostle gives this reason of his chearful and couragious Sufferings in the Service of God , For I know in whom I have believed , and am perswaded he is able to keep what I have committed to him , till that Day . His Faith respected the Promises of God concerning his Salvation , which are infinitely sure , the Divine Power being alsufficient to fulfil them . The precious Depositum that is committed to his dear Care , he can and will preserve inviolate . The Father of sincere Believers , is the Lord of Heaven and Earth , who by his Word , without the least strain of his Power , made the World , and preserves it from falling into Confusion . 'T is the Essence of Faith , to assure us of God's Almighty Mercy to all that have the true Characters of his Children , that are qualified for his Salvation . Our Redeemer joins the two Relations of our Father and our God ; the gracious and the glorious Relation are inseparable . Now the Love of our heavenly Father engages the Power of our God , that we shall want nothing to secure our Happiness , that is within the object of Omnipotence . I shall insist no further upon the Consideration of the Divine Power , because it will return under some of the following Heads of Discourse . II. The Blessedness of this Privilege is to be unfolded . This will appear by considering , First , What is the Depositum , the Thing that is intrusted in God's Hands . Secondly , What is implied in his receiving of it . In answer to the first ; 'T is the Soul , the more excellent and immortal Part of Man , that is commended to God's keeping . 1. ' T is our more excellent Part in its Nature and Capacity . Man is a compounded Creature , of a Body and a Soul : the Body in its Original and Resolution is Earth ; the Soul is of a divine Descent , a spiritual Substance , and in the Nobility and Perfections of its Nature , but a little lower than the Angels : 't is the vile Body , but the precious Soul. In its Capacity it incomparably excels the Body ; for the Body lives & moves in the low Region of the Senses , that are common with the Worms of the Earth ; but the Soul in its Understanding and Desires , is capable of Communion with the blessed God , of Grace and Glory . From hence it is , that the whole World can't make one Man happy ; for the Ingredients of true and compleat Happiness are the Perfection and Satisfaction of the Soul. The Apostle tells us , The less is blessed of the greater . Can the World bring Perfection to Man , that is so incomparably short of his Imperfection ? Our Saviour assures us , the Gain of the whole World cannot recompense the Loss of one Soul. There is a vast Circuit in our Desires , and all the Lines terminate in the Centre of Blessedness . Can the World give sincere Satisfaction to them ? Solomon who was as rich and high as the World could make him , has left an everlasting Testimony of the Vanity of transient Things , from his experimental Observation , and the Direction of the Holy Spirit : So he begins and ends his Sermon , Vanity of Vanities , all is Vanity ; so vain and vexing , that we shall not only be weary of them , but of this Life , wherein we use them . Can the Creature make us happy , when their Emptiness , and Anguish annex'd to it , makes our Lives miserable ? The World cannot satisfy our narrow Senses : The Eye is not satisfied with seeing , nor the Ear with hearing , much less the infinite Desires of our supreme Faculties . Those who are now inchanted with its Allurements , within a little while will see through its false Colours . As when one awakes , all the pleasant Scenes of Fancy in his Dream vanish ; so when the Soul is awakened in the End of Life , the World and the Lusts thereof pass away , and the remembrance of them . I shall add further ; What clearer Evidence can we have of the worth of the Soul , than from God's Esteem , the Creator of it ? Now when God foresaw the Revolture of our first Parent , that brought him under a double Death in one Sentence , temporal and eternal , and that all Mankind was desperately lost in him , then his compassionate Counsels were concerning his Recovery : His Love and Wisdom accorded to contrive the Means to accomplish our Redemption , by the Death of his incarnate Son : We are not redeemed with Silver and Gold , but with the precious Blood of Christ , as a Lamb without spot and blemish . Of what value is a Soul in God's account , that he bought with his own Son's Blood , the most sacred Treasure of Heaven ? We may say for the Honour of our Redeemer and our own , that which the Angels cannot , we were so valued by God himself , that his Son became Man , and died on the Cross for the Salvation of our Souls . I shall only mention another Evidence and Effect of God's valuation of our Souls , that is , the eternal Weight of Glory , which exceeds all the Thoughts of our Minds , and Desires of our Hearts . What are all the Kingdoms and Pleasures of the World , in comparison of that Blessedness God has prepar'd for those who love him ? Now the Soul that is inestimably precious , and should be most dear to us , is secured from Danger , when received by God's Hands . 2. The Soul is our immortal Part. The Body is compounded of jarring Principles , frail and mortal : A Casualty or Sickness dissolves the vital Union , and it falls to the Dust. But the Soul is a Spirit by Nature , and immortal by its inherent Property . It s spiritual Operations perform'd without the ministry of the Senses , ( the Eye of the Mind contemplates its Objects , when the Eyes of the Body are clos'd ) demonstrate its spiritual Nature : for the Being is the Root of its working , and consequently that it exists independently upon the Body : But of this we have the clearest assurance in the Scripture . This is another demonstration that present Things cannot make us happy , for they forsake us the first step we take into the next World , and then the Soul enters into Happiness or Misery equally eternal . The Immortality of the Soul , and the Immutability of its State , are inseparable then ; for the present Life is the time of our Work , the next is of Recompences according to our Works . If we die in the Lord , the Consequence is infallible , we shall live with him for ever : If we die in our Sins , we shall not be received by his merciful Hands , but fall into his bottomless Displeasure . And of what concernment is it to have our Souls with God in that infinite and incomprehensible Duration ? All the Measures of Time , Days and Weeks , Months and Years , and Ages , are swallow'd up in that invisible Depth , as the Rivers that pour into the Sea , are swallowed up without any overflowing of its Waters . The Dove that Noah let out of the Ark , as a Spy to discover whether the Deluge was abated , found not a Place to rest on ; but after many Circuits in the Air , it returned to the Ark. If our Thoughts take wing , and multiply Millions of Millions of Ages , we cannot rest in any Computation , for there remains after all an entire innumerable Eternity . Secondly , I will consider more particularly what is contained in this blessed Privilege : The reception of the Soul into God's Hands , implies three things . 1. Entire Safety . 2. Heavenly Felicity . 3. 'T is a certain Pledg of the reviving of the Body , and its reunion with the Soul in the State of Glory . 1. Entire Safety . After Death the separate Soul of a true Believer immediately passes through the airy and Ethereal Regions to the highest Heaven , the Temple of God , the native Seat and Element of blessed Spirits . The Air is possess'd by Satan with his Confederate Army , who are Rebels to God , and Enemies to the Souls of Men : he is stiled the Prince of the Power of the Air : He often raises Storms and Tempests , discharges Thunder and Lightning , the woful Effects of which are felt in the lower World. The Numbers , the Strength , and the Malice of the evil Angels to the Souls of Men , render them very terrible : We may conjecture at their Number , from what is related in the Gospel , that a Legion possess'd one Man. They are superiour Spirits to Man , and tho stripp'd of their moral Excellencies , Holiness , Goodness and Truth , yet retain their natural Power at least in great degrees . Their Malice is unquenchable . 'T is said of the Devil , He goes about like a roaring Lion , seeking whom he may devour . All the Joy those malignant Spirits are capable of , is the involving the Souls of Men in their desperate Calamity . And tho they know their opposing God will increase their Guilt and Torment , yet their Diligence is equal to their Malice , to seduce , pervert and ruin Souls for ever . Now when the Saints die , all the Powers of Darkness would , if possible , hinder the ascension of their Souls to God. What David complains of his cruel Enemies , is applicable in this case , Their Souls are among Lions ; and if destitute of divine Preservation , the Danger would be the same ; as if a little Flock of Lambs were to encounter with a great number of fierce Lions , or fiery Dragons . Anger sets an edg upon Power , and makes a Combatant but of equal Strength to overcome . How dangerous then would the Condition be of naked Souls , oppos'd by over-matching Enemies , armed with Rage against them ? How easily would they hurry them to the Abyss , the Den of Dragons , the Prison where lost Souls are secur'd to the Day of Judgment ? But all the Potentates of Hell are infinitely inferiour to God : they are restrain'd and tortur'd by the Chains of his powerful Justice : a Legion of them could not enter into the Swine without his permission , much less can they touch the Apple of his Eye . That black Prince with all his infernal Host cannot intercept one naked Soul from arriving at the Kingdom of Glory . Our Saviour assures us , None is able to pluck them out of his Father's Hands . The Lord Christ our Head and Leader , having vanquish'd in his last Battel on the Cross , Principalities and Powers , made his triumphant Ascension to Glory : Thus his Members having overcome their spiritual Enemies , shall by the same Almighty Power be carried through the Dominions of Satan , in the sight of their Enemies , ( tormented with the remembrance of their lost Happiness , and Envy that humane Souls should partake of it ) to the Place of God's glorious Residence . I shall also observe , that as the Lord is a God of Power , so he is a God of Order , and uses subordinate Means for the accomplishment of his Will. Our Saviour has reveal'd , that the Angels transport the separate Souls of the Righteous to Heaven : Those glorious Spirits , who always behold the Face of God , such is their exact Obedience to him , and perfect Love to his Children , that they disdain not to protect his little ones in this open State. They rejoice at the Conversion of Sinners , at their first entrance into the Way of Life , and with tender watchfulness encompass them here , never withdrawing their protecting Presence , till they bring them to their celestial Country , and resign their Charge to the Lord of Life . How safe are the departed Saints , when convey'd through Satan's Territories by the Royal Guard of Angels that excel in strength ? 2. Heavenly Felicity . The receiving of holy Souls into God's Hands , is introductive into his Presence , which is both a Sanctuary to secure us from all Evil , and a Store-house to furnish us with all that is good . The Lord is a Sun and a Shield : he is to intellectual Beings , what the Sun is to sensitive , communicates Light and Life , and Joy to them . In his Presence is fulness of Joy , at his right Hand are Rivers of Pleasure for ever . All that is evil and afflicting , is abolish'd : all that is desirable , is conferr'd upon his Children . A glimpse or reflected Ray of his reconciled and favourable Countenance , even in this lower World , infuses into the Hearts of his Children a Joy unspeakable and glorious : a taste of the Divine Goodness here , causes a disrelish of all the carnal Sweets , the dreggy Delights which natural Men so greedily desire . And if the faint Dawn be so reviving and comfortable , what is the Brightness of the full Day ? None can understand the Happiness that results from the full and eternal sight of God's Face , and the fruition of his Love , but those who enjoy the Presence of God in perfection . His Goodness is truly infinite ; the more the Saints above know it , and enjoy it , the more they esteem it , and delight in it . His compleat and communicative Love satisfies the immense Desires of that innumerable Company of blessed Spirits that are before his Throne : there is no Envy , no Avarice , no Ambition in that Kingdom , where God is all in all . The Divine Presence is an ever-flowing Fountain of Felicity . The continual reflection upon this , makes Heaven to be Heaven to the Blessed : their Security is as valuable as their Felicity : they are above all danger of losing it . Methinks the belief of this should cause us , as it were with Wings of Fire , with most ardent Desires to fly to the Bosom of God , the alone Centre of our Souls , where we shall rest for ever . 3. The reception of the Soul into Heaven is a certain Pledg of the Resurrection of the Body , and its re-union with the Soul in the State of Glory . The Covenant of God was made with the entire Persons of Believers : therefore under the Law the sacred Seal of it was in their Flesh. To be the God of Promise to them , implies his being a blessed Rewarder to them . Our Saviour silences the Sadduces , who disbeliev'd the Resurrection , from the tenour of God's Covenant , I am the God of Abraham , and Isaac , and Jacob , which Title he was pleased to retain after their Death ; Now God is not the God of the Dead , but of the Living . The immediate Inference from thence is , that their Souls did actually live in Blessedness , and that their Bodies , tho dead to Nature , were alive to God with respect to his Promise and Power . If we consider that the Divine Law binds the outward Man as well as the inward , and that during the time of our Work and Trial here , our Service and Sufferings for the Glory of God are from the concurrence of the Soul and Body , it will appear that the Promise of the Reward belongs to both , and that the receiving of the Soul into Heaven , is an earnest of our full Redemption , even that of the Body . 'T is true , there is no visible Difference between the Bodies of the Saints and of the Wicked here ; they are sick with the same Diseases , and die in the same manner . As 't is with Trees in deep Winter , when they are covered with Snow , we cannot distinguish which are absolutely dead and destin'd to the Ax and Fire , and which retain their Sap , and will be fruitful and flourishing in the returning Year : so the dead Bodies of the Godly and Ungodly , to external appearance , are alike : But what a vast difference will be between them in the next World ! The Bodies of the Ungodly , in conjunction with their Souls , shall be cast into the Lake of Fire ; the Bodies of the Godly resumed by their Souls , shall enjoy a full and flourishing Happiness for ever . The Application . 1. This may inform us of the contrary States into which dying Persons immediately pass : The Children of God resign their Spirits to the Hands of their gracious Heavenly Father , but Rebels and Strangers to God , fall into the Hands of a revenging Judg. Could we see the attending Spirits that surround sick Persons in their last Hours , what a wonderful Impression would it make upon us ? A Guard of glorious Angels convey the departed Saints to the Bosom of God's Love , and the Kingdom of his Glory . But when the Wicked die , a Legion of Furies sieze upon their expected Prey , and hurry them to the infernal Prison , from whence there is no redemption . How many Rebels and open Enemies to God are in the Pale of the Christian Church ? They will loudly repeat , Our Father which art in Heaven , notwithstanding the impudent and palpable Atheism of their Lives : they live as if they were independent , and not accountable to him who will judg the World without respect of Persons . The more strict his Commands are , the Contempt of them is more visible . Our Saviour's Prohibition is peremptory , I say unto you , Swear not at all : but how many make no more conscience of Swearing than they do of Speaking , and pour forth Oaths of all fashions and sizes . We are severely forbid all degrees of Impurity , in the Look , in Words , or in Wish ; yet how many without reflection or remorse , continue in the deepest Pollutions ! We are commanded to live soberly in this present World ; yet how many indulge their swinish Appetites , and debase themselves even below the Beasts that perish . And as the sensual Appetites are notoriously predominant in some , so the angry Appetite is tyrannous in others . Pride , Wrath , Revenge , possess the Breasts of many : How often for a slight , or but reputed Injury , they are so fir'd with Passion , that their hot Blood cannot be satisfied without the cold Blood of their Enemies . In short , many live in such open defiance of the Divine Law , as if there were no God to see and punish their Sins , or as if they would make a trial whether he will be true to his Threatning , and revenge their bold Impieties : They are partly worse than Brutes ; for having an understanding Faculty , a Principle of Reason , they submit it to Sense : and partly worse than Devils ; for as the Devils , they rebel against God , and yet not , as they , tremble in their Rebellion . Now when Death is ready with its cold Hands to close their Eyes , and Conscience awakes out of its Slumber , what Horrors seize upon them ! They are stripp'd of their carnal Securities , the Creature cannot help them , and the Creator will not . They have been Enemies to that Love that made them and preserv'd them , and , notwithstanding their violent Provocations , has spar'd them so long . They have rejected that infinitely condescending and compassionate Love , that so tenderly beseech'd them to be reconciled to God , as if it were his Interest to save them . Whither will they fly from their Judg ? What can rescue them from instant and irrecoverable Misery ? Can they hope that Mercy will be their Advocate ? Their Condemnation is so righteous , that Mercy cannot dispense with it . 'T is a fearful thing to fall into the Hands of the living God , who lives for ever , and can punish for ever . Who knows the Power of his Wrath ? 'T is boundless beyond all our Thoughts and Time. O take notice of this with Terror , all ye that forget God , lest he tear you in pieces , and there be none to deliver ! Others are not so visibly disobedient as notorious Sinners , but are as really . You may see their Picture in the disobedient Son , mentioned by our Saviour in the Gospel , who when his Father commanded him to go work in the Vineyard , answered , I go , Sir , and went not . 'T is true , they perform the external part of some Duties , and abstain from the gross acts of some Sins , but 't is with an exception and a reserve . A Duty that is contrary to their carnal Appetites and Interest , they will not perform ; a Sin that bribes them with Profit or Pleasure , a temperamental Sin , they will not part with . Now any indulged habitual Lust is not the Spot of God's Children , but denominates the Sinner a Child of the Devil : for tho the Saints till they are devested of frail Flesh , have their Allays , and cannot be exempt from the relicks of Sin ; yet the Divine Nature communicated to them , is opposite to every Sin , and is an active Principle to subdue Sin. And from hence S. John tells us , He that is born of God , cannot sin , that is , deliberately and habitually : Such Sinners , tho in the Hour of Death they may address with all the applying Titles , Our Father , and our God , shall ever be excluded from his sacred and saving Protection . 2. Let us seriously consider whether we are of this spiritual Progeny , the Children of God , not only in Title , but in Reality . The Inquiry is of infinite moment ; for all the Promises and Priviledges of the Gospel are annex'd to this Sonship : This secures us from the Wrath to come , and entitles us to the eternal Inheritance ; Fear not , little Flock , 't is your Father's good Pleasure to give you the Kingdom . This Inquiry is very useful to calm and quiet the troubled Saints , and to awaken unregenerate Persons out of their confident Dream of their good State. Many sincere Christians are infinitely concern'd whether they are the Children of God ; of this their Tears and Fears give abundant evidence . The reasons of their Doubts are partly the Jealousy of their own Hearts , which are naturally deceitful above all things , and most deceitful to a Man's self ; and partly from the consequence of the Deceit : for knowing the inestimable value of this Privilege , to be the Sons of God , and that if they are deceived in it , they are undone for ever , they are anxiously thoughtful about it . But carnal Persons who are not acquainted with the Hypocrisy of their Hearts , nor duly understand the excellence of the Privilege , easily believe what they coldly desire . And the great deceiver of Souls is equally subtile to varnish what is evil with the false colours of Good , and to conceal what is good under the appearance of Evil. From hence it is , that many tender-spirited Christians are timorous , and full of unquiet Agitations all their Lives : and many who have but a shew and fair pretence of Religion , are undisturb'd and hopeful , till at last they fall from their supposed Heaven and high Hopes , into the Abyss of Misery . This Trial will be most clear and convincing , by representing from Scripture the inseparable Properties and Characters of the Children of God , that distinguish them from all that are in the State of unrenewed Nature . The Apostle tells sincere Christians , The Spirit it self witnesses with our Spirits , that we are the Children of God. Here is a Consent and Agreement of those Witnesses , in whom are all that is requisite to give value to their Testimony . For the Spirit of God , such is his unerring Knowledg , who searches the deep things of God , and such is the absolute Sanctity of his Nature , that he can neither deceive nor be deceived , so that his Testimony is infinitely sure , and of more worth than the concurrent Testimony of Heaven and Earth , of Angels and Men. The other Witness is the renewed Conscience , that is acquainted with the Aims and Affections of the Heart , as the Apostle saith , Who knows the things of a Man , save the Spirit of a Man ? This Faculty reflects upon our Actions , and the Principles of them : to this Faculty is referr'd the decision of our spiritual State ; If our Hearts condemn us not of any allowed Sin , then have we Peace towards God. From the consent and agreement of these Witnesses , there is a blessed Assurance of our Evangelical Sonship , that overcomes all our Fears . Now this Testimony is rational and argumentative , from the discovery of those Graces that constitute a Person the Child of God. I will make the Inquiry concerning the Grace of Faith and of Love , which are the vital Bands of our Union with Christ , the principal Fruits of the sanctifying Spirit , and the Symptoms of Salvation . ( 1. ) The Grace of Faith is express'd in Scripture by receiving of Christ : this answers to God's offer of him to our acceptance in the Gospel . It receives him entirely in his Person and Natures , as the incarnate Son of God ; and in his Office , as a Prince and Saviour , to give Repentance and remission of Sins . This receiving Christ implies an Act of the Understanding and the Will ; the Understanding assents to the Truth of the Divine Revelation , that Christ crucified is an alsufficient Saviour ; and the Will closes with the Terms of it , that he will save to the uttermost all that obey him : From hence it follows , that reliance upon him , and a sincere resolution to obey him , are necessarily included in saving Faith. This Scripture-Account distinguishes between that substantial Faith that is proper to the elect Children of God , and the Shadow of it in the Unregenerate ; the one is the intimate and active Principle of Obedience , the other is a dead Assent without Efficacy , a mere Carcass and Counterfeit of Faith. A sincere Believer as fervently desires to be saved from the Dominion and Pollution of his Sins , as from the Guilt and deadly Malignity : a carnal Man desires an Interest in Christ as a Saviour , that he may securely enjoy his Lusts. The crafty and cursed Serpent deceives Men to their ruine , by citing Scripture , and misapplying it . The Promise is sure , Whoever believes , shall be saved ; and he easily perswades them they are Believers . 'T is strange to astonishment , that Men who have Reason and Understanding , should presume in a high degree of the present Favour of God , and their future Happiness , as if they were his dear Children , when their Enmity against his holy Name and Will is evident in their Actions . We can never have too firm a dependance on God's Promise , when we are qualified for that Dependance . Come out from among them , and be ye separate , saith the Lord ; and touch not the unclean thing , and I will receive you , and will be a Father to you , saith the Lord Almighty . Faith that purifies the Heart and Conversation , invests us with this blessed Privilege , and all the saving Mercies annex'd to it . ( 2. ) From the spiritual Relation between God and Believers , there naturally and necessarily results a sincere , dutiful , child-like Love to him , correspondent to his beneficent and fatherly Love to them : This God indispensably requires , and specially delights in ; Thou lovest Truth in the inward Parts . Filial Obedience is inseparable from filial Love in its Reality : For this is the Love of God , that we keep his Commandments . Our Saviour distinguishes between sincere Lovers of him , and pretended , that they who love him , keep his Commandments ; but they who love him not , keep not his Commandments . The Obedience that springs from Love to God , is uniform , respects all his Commands : for the two filial Affections , an ardent Desire to please God in all things , and an ingenuous Fear of displeasing him in any thing , are inseparably joined with our Love to him . The Obedience that proceeds from Love , is free and voluntary , from Inclination as well as Duty . How passionately does the holy Psalmist express his Affection , O how I love thy Law ! In the Covenant of Grace , God promises to write his Law in the Hearts of his Children : not only in their Minds and Memories , but to endear it to their Affections . There is much difference between servile and constrain'd Obedience , and filial chosen Obedience , as between the Motion of a living Man from the Soul , the inward Spring of Life , and the Motion of an Image or Statue from forcible Weights and Wheels . From filial Love proceeds godly Sorrow , if at any time by Carelesness and Surprize , or an over powering Temptation , on , his Children do what is offensive and odious in his sight . When they consider their unkind and unthankful Returns for his Mercies , they look to their Heavenly Father with Grief and Shame , and down upon themselves with Abhorrence and Indignation : They are wounded with the sting of that Expostulation , Do ye thus requite the Lord , O foolish People and unwise ? Is he not thy Father who bought thee ? From filial Love proceeds a Zeal for his Glory ; If I be a Father , where is my Honour ? A Child of God is dearly concerned that his Name be reverenced and magnified , his Laws be observed , his Worship maintained , that his Interest be advanced in the World. He has a burning Zeal against Sin and presumptuous Sinners . The Prophet Elijah says , I have been jealous for the Lord of Hosts : for the Children of Israel have forsaken thy Covenant , and thrown down thine Altars . Those who with an indifferent Eye see the Cause , the Truth , the Interest of God depress'd in the World , do renounce the Title of his Children . From the Relation to God as his Sons , proceeds a sincere fervent Love to all the Saints . St. John infers , Every one that loveth him that begat , loves him that is begotten . Grace is not less powerful in producing cordial mutual Affections between the Children of the same Heavenly Father , than the subordinate Endearments of Nature . Notwithstanding the civil Distinction between them , some high and rich , others mean and poor , yet there is a spiritual Equality ; the lowest Saints are Princes of the Blood-Royal of Heaven . To him that has washed us from our Sins in his Blood , and made us Kings and Priests to God , be Glory for ever . The filial Relation to God inclines and encourages all sincere Christians to resign themselves , even in their most afflicted Condition , to the Wisdom and Will of God. Our Saviour meekly yielded up himself to his cruel Enemies , upon this Consideration , The Cup which my Father has given me , shall I not drink it ? The Saints in imitation of Christ , and upon the same Ground , entirely resign themselves to the Divine Disposal ; for their Heavenly Father loves them better than they can love themselves . Finally , The filial Relation to God is productive as of lively Hopes , so of ardent Desires to be with him . Love makes them to esteem Communion with him here in his holy Ordinances , as the Joy of their Lives . The Psalmist when banish'd from the Tabernacle , breaks forth in his impatient Desires , When shall I come and appear before God ? that is , in the Place where he communicates his Grace to those that worship him . But our Father is in Heaven as his Throne , and most gloriously exhibits himself to his Saints there . The Earth is the Element and Residence of carnal Men , of their Souls as well as their Bodies : They desire their Inheritance may be on this side Jordan , and are content to leave the Heavenly Canaan to those who like it . But those who are born from above , desire to be dissolved , that they may be in their Father's House , and his reviving Presence for ever . 3. Let us be perswaded to prepare for the reception of our Souls in the next World. The present Life is a Passage to Eternity , and 't is so short and fading , so uncertain and hazardous , that 't is our principal Wisdom without delay to secure our Souls in the future State. Our Saviour says , I must work the Work of him that sent me while it is Day : the Night cometh when no Man can work . Now is the accepted Time , now is the Day of Salvation . 'T is our indispensable Duty and main Interest now , to work out our own Salvation with fear and trembling . In the state of Death there is an Incapacity to do any thing in order to Salvation : There is no Work nor Wisdom in the Grave : and all the Offers of Salvation cease for ever . The Sufferings of the Son of God are not a Ransom for Sinners in that State : He reconciled things in Earth and in Heaven , but not things in Hell. The Golden Scepter is extended to none there , the Holy Spirit strives with none , they are without the Reserves of Mercy . The Guilt of Sin remains in its full Obligation , the Pollution of Sin in its deepest Die , and the Punishment of Sin in its Extremity for ever . O what Folly is it , or rather Frenzy , not to provide for our Souls in their greatest Exigence ! Common Reason instructs us , knowing our own Weakness , to commit our Treasure to the custody of our Friends , which we cannot otherwise keep from our Enemies ; especially to such a Friend as can and will preserve it for our Use and Advantage . The Soul is our Jewel above all Price , 't is our Wisdom to secure it out of all danger : Let us therefore commit it to the safe and sure Hands of our Heavenly Father , otherwise we cannot preserve it from the infernal Spirits , the Robbers and Murderers of Souls . The wise Preacher denounces a fearful Evil , Wo be to him that is alone when he falleth ; for he hath not another to help him up . In all the Senses of falling , Death is the greatest Fall : the High , the Honourable , the Rich , fall from all their State ; and Men of all Degrees are forsaken of all their carnal Comforts and Supports . If then the solitary Soul has not a God to receive , support and comfort it , how woful is its Condition ! Methinks the apprehension of this should strike a Terror so deep into the Hearts of Men , that they should be restless till they have secur'd a Retreat for their departing Souls . For this end let us , according to the earnest Advice of St. Peter , be diligent , that we may be found of him in Peace , without spot , and blameless . The Lord Jesus is the only Peace-maker of the righteous and holy God to Sinners . The Judg of this World is flaming with Wrath , and terrible in Vengeance to Sinners that appear before his Tribunal out of Christ. We shall for ever be excluded from his blessed Communion , without the Mediator restore us to his Favour . Our Reconciliation only is by Redemption in his Blood. The Chastisement of our Peace was upon him . He is the Lord our Righteousness , by whom alone we can stand in Judgment . God was in Christ reconciling the World to himself . There is now an Act of Oblivion offer'd in the Gospel to all that come to God by him . We have sure Salvation in his Name : But we must with consenting Wills , close with him as our Lord and Life . The first Gospel preach'd by the Angel after his coming into the World , declares , There was born in the City of David a Saviour , Christ the Lord. We must not separate between Christ the Saviour , and Christ the Lord ; between his Salvation and his Dominion . God indispensably requires we should resign our selves to his Son as our King , and rely upon him as our Priest to atone his Displeasure . If we thus receive him , he will restore us to the Favour and Peace of God , establisht in an everlasting Covenant . How tenderly and compassionately does the great God invite Sinners to re-enter into his Favour , to acquaint our selves with him , and to be at peace ! His Embassadours in his Name , and in Christ's stead beseech them to be reconciled to God. But their perverse Spirits would have God reconciled to them , that they might be exempt from Punishment ; but are unwilling to be reconciled to him , to part with their Lusts. In short , reconciliation with God necessarily infers defiance with Sin. Ye that love the Lord hate Evil. If Men do not cease their Rebellion , there is no shadow of hope to obtain the Divine Favour . Do ye provoke the Lord to Jealousie , are you stronger than he ? Jealousie is the most sensible and severe Affection . As 't is with a Town taken by storm , all that are found in Arms are without Mercy cut off ; so all that at Death are found with the weapons of unrighteousness , their unrepented unforsaken Sins about them , must expect Judgment without Mercy . Lastly , Let the Children of God be encouraged with Peace and Joy to commend their Souls to him . Let rebellious Sinners tremble with deadly Fear upon the brink of Eternity ; but let the Saints , with a lively Hope , enter into the Divine World. If Men possess their Treasure with Joy and Jealousie , and guard it with vigilant Care , will not God preserve his dearest Treasure , the Souls of his Children committed to his Trust ? Can Love forsake , can Truth deceive , can Almighty Power fail ? Will a Father , a heavenly Father , be without Bowels to his own Off-spring ? No , he cannot deny himself : he is readiest to relieve , when they are in distress . Old Simeon is a leading Example to Believers : after he had embraced Christ in his Armes , how earnestly did he desire his Dissolution ? Lord , now lettest thou thy Servant depart in peace , for mine eyes have seen thy Salvation . St. Stephen in the midst of a showr of Stones , with a blessed Tranquillity , makes his dying Prayer , Lord Jesus receive my Spirit . If the Fears of humble Souls arise in that hour , because they have not the Conspicuous marks of God's Children , the Graces of the Spirit in that degree of Eminency , as some Saints have had : Let them consider , there are different Ages among the Children of God : some are in a state of Infancy and Infirmity ; others are more Confirm'd : but the relation is the same in all , and gives an interest in his promised Mercy . The weakness of their Faith cannot frustrate God's faithfulness . 'T is the Sincerity , not the Strength of Grace , that is requisite to Salvation . If Faith be shaking as a bruised reed , and but kindling as the smoaking flax , it shall be victorious . O that these powerfull Comforts may encourage dying Christians to commend their Souls with Ardency and Assurance to God , their Father , and Felicity . I have now finisht my Discourse upon the Text , and shall apply my self to speak of the other Subject , the Reverend Mr. Richard Baxter , that Excellent Instrument of Divine Grace , to recover and restore so many revolted Souls to God , out of the Empire of his Enemy : or in the Apostles Language , to translate them from the Kingdom of Darkness , into the Kingdom of his dear Son. I am sensible , that in speaking of him I shall be under a double Disadvantage : For those who perfectly knew him , will be apt to think my Account of him to be short and defective , an imperfect Shadow of his resplendent Vertues : others who were unacquainted with his extraordinary Worth , will from Ignorance or Envy be inclin'd to think his just Praises to be undue and excessive . Indeed if Love could make me eloquent , I should use all the most lively and graceful Colours of Language to ●dorn his Memory : but this Consideration relieves me in the Consciousness of my Disability , that a plain Narrative of what Mr. Baxter was , and did , will bee a most noble Eulogy : and that his substantial Piety no more needs artificial Oratory to set it off , than refined Gold wants Paint to add Lustre and Value to it . I shall not speak of his Parentage , and his first Years : but I must not omit a Testimony I receiv'd concerning his early Piety . His Father said with Tears of Joy to a Friend , my Son Richard I hope was sanctified from the Womb : for when he was a little Boy in Coats , if he heard other Children in play speak profane Words , he would reprove them to the Wonder of those that heard him . He had not the Advantage of Academical Education : but by the Divine Blessing upon his rare Dexterity and Diligence , his Sacred Knowledge was in that Degree of Eminence , as few in the University ever arrive to . Not long after his Entrance into the Ministry the Civil War began , and the Times rain'd Blood so long , till the languishing State of the Kingdom , was almost desperate and incurable . How far he was concern'd as a Chaplain in the Parliament's Army , he has publisht an Account , and the reasons of it . After the War , he was fixt at Kederminster . There his Ministry by the Divine Influence , was of admirable Efficacy . The Harvest answer'd the Seed that was sowed . Before his coming , the Place was like a Piece of dry and barren Earth , onely Ignorance and Profaneness as Natives of the Soil were rise among them ; but by the Blessing of Heaven upon his Labour and Cultivating , the Face of Paradise appear'd there in all the Fruits of Righteousness . Many were translated from the state of polluted Nature , to the state of Grace ; and many were advanc'd to higher degrees of Holiness . The bad were chang'd to good , and the good to better . Conversion is the Excellent Work of Divine Grace : the Efficacy of the Means is from the Supreme Mover . But God usually makes those Ministers successfull in that Blessed Work , whose principal Design and Delight is to glorifie him in the saving of Souls . This was the reigning Affection in his Heart ; and he was extraordinarily qualified to obtain his End. His Prayers were an Effusion of the most lively melting Expressions , and his intimate ardent Affections to God ; from the abundance of his Heart his Lips spake . His Soul took Wing for Heaven , and rapt up the Souls of others with him . Never did I see or hear a holy Minister address himself to God with more Reverence and Humility , with respect to his glorious Greatness ; never with more Zeal and Fervency correspondent to the infinite Moment of his requests ; nor with more Filial Affiance in the Divine Mercy . In his Sermons there was a rare Union of Arguments and Motives to convince the Mind and gain the Heart : All the Fountains of Reason and Perswasion were open to his discerning Eye . There was no resisting the Force of his Discourses without denying Reason and Divine Revelation . He had a marvellous Felicity and Copiousness in speaking . There was a noble Negligence in his Stile : for his great Mind could not stoop to the affected Eloquence of Words : he despis'd flashy Oratory : but his Expressions were clear and powerful , so convincing the Understanding , so entring into the Soul , so engaging the Affections , that those were as deaf as Adders , who were not charm'd by so wise a Charmer . He was animated with the Holy Spirit , and breath'd Celestial Fire , to inspire Heat and Life into dead Sinners , and to melt the obdurate in their frozen Tombs . Methinks I still hear him speak those powerfull Words : A Wretch that is condemn'd to dy to Morrow cannot forget it : And yet poor Sinners , that continually are uncertain to live an Hour , and certain speedily to see the Majesty of the Lord to their unconceivable Joy or Terror , as sure as they now live on Earth , can forget these things for which they have their memory : and which one would think should drown the matters of this World , as the report of a Canon does a Whisper , or as the Sun obscures the poorest Glo-worm . O wonderfull stupidity of an unrenewed Soul ! O wonderfull folly and distractedness of the ungodly ! That ever Men can forget , I say again , that they can forget , Eternal joy , Eternal Woe , and the Eternal God , and the place of their Eternal unchangeable Abodes , when they stand even at the door ; and there is but the thin Vail of Flesh between them and that amazing sight , that Eternal gulph , and they are daily dying and stepping in . Besides , his wonderfull diligence in Catechizing the particular Families under his Charge , was exceeding usefull to plant Religion in them . Personal instruction , and application of Divine Truths , has an excellent advantage and efficacy to insinuate and infuse Religion into the Minds and Hearts of Men , and by the Conversion of Parents and Masters to reform whole Families that are under their immediate direction and government . While he was at Kederminster he wrote and publisht that accomplisht Model of an Evangelical Minister , styled Gildas Salvianus , or the Reform'd Pastor : In that book , he clears beyond all cavil , That the Duty of Ministers is not confin'd to their Study and the Pulpit , but that they should make use of opportunities to instruct Families within their Care , as 't is said by the Apostle , that he had kept back nothing from his Hearers that was profitable , but had taught them publickly , and from house to house . The Idea of a faithfull Minister delineated in that book , was a Copy taken from the Life , from his own zealous Example . His unwearied industry to do good to his Flock , was answer'd by Correspondent Love and Thankfulness . He was an Angel in their Esteem . He would often speak with great Complacence of their dear Affections : and a little before his Death , said , He believ'd they were more Expressive of kindness to him , than the Christian Converts were to the Apostle Paul , by what appears in his Writings . While he remain'd at Kederminster , his Illustrious Worth was not shaded in a Corner , but dispers'd its Beams and Influence round the Countrey . By his Counsel and Excitation , the Ministers in Worcestershire , Episcopal , Presbyterian and Congregational were united , that by their Studies , Labours , and Advice , the Doctrine and Practise of Religion , the Truths and Holiness of the Gospel might be preserved in all the Churches committed to their Charge . This Association was of excellent use , the ends of Church-government were obtain'd by it : and it was a leading Example to the Ministers of other Counties . Mr. Baxter was not above his Brethren Ministers , by a Superiour Title , or any secular advantage , but by his divine endowments and separate excellencies , his extraordinary wisdom , zeal , and fidelity : he was the Soul of that Happy Society . He continued among his beloved people , till the year 1660. then he came to London . A while after the King's Restoration , there were many Endeavours us'd in order to an Agreement between the Episcopal and Presbyterian Ministers . For this end several of the Bishops elect , and of the Ministers , were call'd to attend the King at Worcester-House : there was read to them a Declaration , drawn up with great wisdom and moderation , by the Lord Chancellor the Earl of Clarendon . I shall onely observe that in reading the several parts of the Declaration , Dr. Morley was the principal manager of the Conference among the Bishops , and Mr. Baxter among the Ministers : and one particular I cannot forget ; it was desir'd by the Ministers , that the Bishops should exercise their Church Power with the counsel and consent of Presbyters . This limiting of their Authority was so displeasing , that Dr. Cosins , then elect of Durham , said , If your Majesty grants this you will Unbishop your Bishops . Dr. Reynolds upon this produced the Book , entituled , The Portraicture of his Sacred Majesty in his Solitude and Sufferings , and read the following Passage : Not that I am against the managing of this Presidency and Authority in One Man by the joint Counsel and Consent of many Presbyters : I have offer'd to restore that , as a fit means to avoid those Errors , Corruptions and Partialities , which are incident to any One Man : also to avoid Tyranny , which becomes no Christians , least of all Church-men . Besides , it will be a means to take away that burthen and odium of affairs , which may lie too heavy on one Man's shoulders , as indeed I think it did formerly on the Bishops here . The good Doctor thought , that the Judgment of the King 's afflicted and inquiring Father would have been of great moment to incline him to that temperament : but the King presently replied , All that is in that Book is not Gospel . My Lord Chancellor prudently moderated in that matter , that the Bishops , in weighty Causes , should have the assistance of the Presbyters . Mr. Baxter considering the state of our affairs in that time , was well pleased with that Declaration : He was of Calvin's mind , who judiciously observes , upon our Saviour's words , That the Son of Man shall send forth his Angels , and they shall gather out of his Kingdom all things that offend : Qui ad extirpandum quicquid displicet praepostere festinant , antevertant Christi judicium , & ereptum Angelis officium sibi temere usurpant . They that make too much haste to redress at once all things that are amiss , anticipate the Judgment of Christ , and rashly usurp the Office of the Angels . Besides , that Declaration granted such a freedom to Conscientious Ministers , that were unsatisfied as to the Old Conformity , that if it had been observed , it had prevented the dolefull Division succeeded afterward . But when there was a motion made in the House of Commons , that the Declaration might pass into an Act , it was oppos'd by one of the Secretarys of State , which was a sufficient Indication of the King's averseness to it . After the Declaration there were many Conferences at the Savoy between the Bishops and some Doctors of their Party , with Mr. Baxter and some other Ministers , for an Agreement , wherein his Zeal for Peace was most conspicuous : but all was in vain . Of the Particulars that were debated , he has given an account in Print . Mr. Baxter , after his coming to London , during the time of Liberty , did not neglect that which was the principal Exercise of his Life , the preaching the Gospel , being always sensible of his duty of saving Souls . He Preacht at St. Dunstans on the Lord's-days in the Afternoon . I remember one instance of his firm Faith in the Divine Providence , and his Fortitude when he was engaged in his Ministry there . The Church was Old , and the People were apprehensive of some danger in meeting in it : and while Mr. Baxter was Preaching , something in the Steeple fell down , and the noise struck such a terror into the People , they presently , in a wild disorder , run out of the Church : their eagerness to haste away , put all into a tumult : Mr. Baxter , without visible disturbance , sat down in the Pulpit : after the hurry was over , he resum'd his Discourse , and said , to compose their Minds ; We are in the Service of God to prepare our selves , that we may be fearless at the great noise of the dissolving World , when the Heavens shall pass away , and the Elements melt in fervent heat ; the Earth also , and the Works therein shall be burnt up . After the Church of St. Dunstans was pull'd down in order to its re-building , he removed to Black-Fryars , and continued his preaching there to a vast Concourse of Hearers , till the fatal Bartholomew . In the Year 1661 , a Parliament was call'd , wherein was past the Act of Uniformity , that expell'd from their publick Places about two thousand Ministers . I will onely take notice concerning the Causes of that Proceeding , that the Old Clergy from Wrath and Revenge , and the young Gentry from their servile Compliance with the Court , and their Distaste of serious Religion , were very active to carry on and compleat that Act. That this is no rash Imputation upon the ruling Clergy then is evident , not onely from their Concurrence in passing that Law , for Actions have a Language as convincing as that of Words , but from Dr. Sheldon then Bishop of London their great Leader ; who when the Lord Chamberlain Manchester , told the King , while the Act of Uniformity was under debate , that he was afraid the Terms of it were so rigid , that many of the Ministers would not comply with it ; he replyed , I am afraid they will. This Act was past after the King had engaged his Faith and Honour in his Declaration from Breda , to preserve the Liberty of Conscience inviolate , which promise open'd the way for his Restorat●on ; and after the Royalists here , had given publick Assurance , that all former Animosities should be buried , as Rubbish under the Foundation of a Vniversal Concord . Mr. Baxter was involv'd with so many Ministers in this Calamity , who was their brightest Ornament , and the best Defence of their righteous , though oppressed Cause : Two Observations he made upon that Act and our Ejection . The one was , that the Ministers were turned and kept out from the publick Exercise of their Office , in that time of their Lives , that was most fit to be dedicated end employed for the Service and Glory of God , that is between thirty and sixty Years , when their intellectual and instrumental Faculties were in their Vigour . The other was in a Letter to me after the Death of several Bishops who were concurrent in passing that Act , and exprest no Sorrow for it : his words were , for ought I see , the Bishops will own the turning of us out , at the Tribunal of Christ , and thither we appeal . After the Act of Uniformity had taken its effect , in the Ejection of so many Ministers , there was sometimes a Connivance at the private Exercise of their Ministry , sometime publick Indulgence granted , and often a severe Prosecution of them , as the Popish and Politick Interest of the Court varied . When there was Liberty , Mr. Baxter applyed himself to his delightful Work , to the great Advantage of those who enjoyed his Ministry . But the Church-Party oppos'd vehemently the Liberty that was granted . Indeed such was their Fierceness , that if the Dissenting Ministers had been as wise as Serpents , and as innocent as Doves , they could not escape their deep Censures . The Pulpit represented them as seditiously disaffected to the State , as obstinate Schismaticks , and often the Name of God was not onely taken in vain , but in violence , to authorise their hard Speeches , and harder Actions against them . Some drops of that Storm fell upon Mr. Baxter , who calmly submitted to their injurious dealings . I shall speak of that afterward . In the Interval , between his Deprivation and his Death , he wrote and publisht the most of his Books , of which I shall give some account . His Books , for their number and variety of Matter in them , make a Library . They contain a Treasure of Controversial , Casuistical , Positive and Practical Divinity . Of them I shall relate the Words of one , whose exact Judgment , joyn'd with his Moderation , will give a great value to his Testimony ; they are of the very Reverend Dr. Wilkins , afterwards Bishop of Chester : he said that Mr. Baxter had cultivated every Subject he handled ; and if he had lived in the Primitive Times , he had been one of the Fathers of the Church . I shall add what he said with admiration of him another time , That it was enough for one Age to produce such a Person as Mr. Baxter . Indeed , he had such an amplitude in his Thoughts , such vivacity of Imagination , and such solidity and depth of Judgment , as rarely meet together . His inquiring Mind was freed from the servile dejection and bondage of an implicit Faith. He adher'd to the Scriptures as the perfect Rule of Faith , and searcht whether the Doctrines received and taught were Consonant to it . This is the duty of every Christian according to his capacity , especially of Ministers , and the necessary means to open the Mind for Divine Knowledge , and for the advancement of the Truth . He publisht several Books against the Papists with that clearness and strength , as will Confound , if not Convince them . He said , he onely desir'd Armies and Antiquity against the Papists : Armies , he cause of their bloody Religion so often exemplified in England , Ireland , France and other Countries . However they may appear on the Stage , they are always the same persons in the Tyring-room : their Religion binds them to extirpate Hereticks , and often over-rules the milder inclinations of their nature : Antiquity , because they are inveigled with a fond pretence to it , as if it were favourable to their Cause : but it has been demonstrated by many learned Protestants , that the Argument of Antiquity is directly against the principal Doctrines of Popery , as that of the Supremacy , of Transubstantiation , of Image-worship , and others . He has wrote several excellent Books against the impudent Atheism of this loose Age. In them he establishes the fundamental Principle , upon which the whole Fabrick of Christianity is built ; that after this short uncertain life , there is a future state of happiness or misery equally Eternal , and that Death is the last irrevocable step into that unchangeable state . From hence it follows by infallible Consequence , that the reasonable Creature should prefer the interest of the Soul before that of the Body , and secure Eternal life . This being laid , he proves the Christian Religion to be the onely way of fallen Man's being restor'd to the favour of God , and obtaining a blessed Immortality . This great Argument he manages with that clearness and strength , that none can refuse assent unto it , without denying the infallible Principles of Faith , and the evident Principles of Nature . He also publisht some warm Discourses , to Apologize for the Preaching of Dissenting Ministers , and to excite them to do their Duty . He did not think that Act of Uniformity could disoblige them from the Exercise of their Office. 'T is true , Magistrates are Titular-Gods by their Deputation and Vicegerency , but subordinate and accountable to God above . Their Laws have no binding force upon the Conscience , but from his Command ; and if contrary to his Law , are to be disobeyed . The Ministers Consecrated to the Service of God are under a moral perpetual Obligation of Preaching the saving Truths of the Gospel , as they have opportunity . There needs no miraculous Testimony of their Commission from Heaven , to authorize the doing their ordinary Duty . In some points of modern Controversie he judiciously chose the middle way , and advised young Divines to follow it . His reverence of the Divine Purity , made him very shy and jealous of any Doctrine that seem'd to reflect a blemish and stain upon it . He was a clear asserter of the soveraign Freeness , and infallible Efficacy of Divine Grace in the Conversion of Souls . In a Sermon reciting the Words of the Covenant of Grace , I will put my fear into their hearts , and they shall not depart from me ; he observed the Tenor of it was , I will , and you shall . Divine Grace makes the rebellious Will obedient , but does not make the Will to be no Will. By the Illumination of the Mind , the Will is inclin'd to Obedience , according to the Words of our Saviour , All that have heard and learn'd of the Father come to me . He preach'd that the Death of Christ was certainly effectual for all the Elect to make them partakers of Grace and Glory , and that it was so far beneficial to all Men , that they are not left in the same desperate State with the fallen Angels , but are made capable of Salvation by the Grace of the Gospel : not capable of Efficience to convert themselves , but as Subjects to receive saving Grace . He did so honour the sincerity of God , as entirely to believe his Will declared in his Word : he would not interpret the Promises of the Gospel in a less gracious sense than God intended them : Therefore if Men finally perish , 't is not for want of Mercy in God , nor Merits in Christ , but for their wilfull refusing Salvation . His Books of Practical Divinity have been effectual for more numerous Conversions of Sinners to God , than any printed in our time : and while the Church remains on Earth , will be of continual Efficacy to recover lost Souls . There is a vigorous Pulse in them that keeps the Reader awake and attentive . His Book of the Saints Everlasting Rest , was written by him when languishing in the suspence of Life and Death , but has the Signatures of his holy and vigorous Mind . To allure our Desires , he unvails the Sanctuary above , and discovers the Glory and Joys of the Blessed in the Divine Presence , by a Light so strong and lively , that all the glittering Vanities of this World vanish in that Comparison , and a sincere Believer will despise them , as one of mature Age does the Toys and Baubles of Children . To excite our fear he removes the Skreen , and makes the Everlasting Fire of Hell so visible , and represents the tormenting Passions of the Damned in those dreadfull Colours , that if duly considered , would check and controul the unbridled licentious Appetites of the most sensual Wretches . His Call to the Vnconverted ; how small in bulk , but how powerfull in vertue ? Truth speaks in it with that authority and efficacy , that it makes the Reader to lay his hand upon his heart , and find he has a Soul and a Conscience , though he lived before as if he had none . He told some friends , that six Brothers were Converted by reading that Call ; and that every Week he received Letters of some Converted by his Books . This he spake with most humble thankfulness , that God was pleased to use him as an instrument for the Salvation of Souls . He that was so solicitous for the Salvation of others , was not negligent of his own ; but as regular Love requires , his first Care was to prepare himself for Heaven . In him the Vertues of the Contemplative and Active Life were eminently united . His time was spent in Communion with God , and in Charity to Men. He lived above the sensible World , and in solitude and silence convers'd with God. The frequent and serious Meditation of Eternal things was the powerfull means to make his Heart holy and heavenly , and from thence his Conversation . His Life was a practical Sermon , a drawing Example . There was an Air of Humility and Sanctity in his mortified Countenance ; and his Deportment was becoming a Stranger upon Earth , and a Citizen of Heaven . Though all Divine Graces , the fruit of the Spirit , were visible in his Conversation , yet some were more eminent . Humility is to other Graces , as the Morning-Star is to the Sun , that goes before it , and follows it in the Evening : Humility prepares us for the receiving of Grace , God gives Grace to the humble : and it follows the Exercise of Grace ; Not I , says the Apostle , but the Grace of God in me . In Mr. Baxter there was a rare Union of sublime Knowledge , and other spiritual Excellencies , with the lowest opinion of himself . He wrote to one that sent a Letter to him full of Expressions of Honour and Esteem , You do admire one you do not know ; Knowledge will cure your Error . The more we know God , the more reason we see to admire him ; but our knowledge of the Creature discovers its imperfections , and lessens our esteem . To the same person expressing his Veneration of him for his excellent Gifts and Graces , he replied with heat , I have the remainders of pride in me , how dare you blow up the sparks of it ? He desir'd some Ministers , his chosen friends , to meet at his House , and spend a day in Prayer for his direction in a matter of moment : before the Duty was begun , he said , I have desir'd your assistance at this time , because I believe God will sooner hear your Prayers than mine . He imitated St. Austin both in his Penitential Confessions , and Retractations . In conjunction with Humility , he had great Candor for others . He could willingly bear with persons of differing Sentiments : he would not prostitute his own judgment , nor ravish anothers . He did not over-esteem himself , nor under-value others . He would give liberal Encomiums of many Conforming Divines . He was severe to himself , but candid in excusing the faults of others . Whereas , the busie Inquirer and Censurer of the faults of others , is usually the easie Neglecter of his own . Self-denial and Contempt of the World were shining Graces in him . I never knew any person less indulgent to himself , and more indifferent to his Temporal interest . The offer of a Bishoprick was no temptation to him : for his exalted Soul despised the Pleasures and Profits which others so earnestly desire ; he valued not an empty Title upon his Tomb. His Patience was truly Christian . God does often try his Children by Afflictions , to exercise their Graces , to occasion their Victory , and to entitle them to a triumphant Felicity . This Saint was tried by many Afflictions . We are very tender of our Reputation : his Name was obscur'd under a Cloud of detraction . Many slanderous Darts were thrown at him . He was charg'd with Schism and Sedition . He was accus'd for his Paraphrase upon the New Testament , as guilty of disloyal Aspersions upon the Government , and Condemn'd , unheard , to a Prison , where he remain●d for some years . But he was so far from being moved at the unrighteous prosecution , that he joyfully said to a constant friend , What could I desire more of God , than after having serv'd him to my power , I should now be called to suffer for him . One who had been a fierce Dissenter , was afterward rankled with an opposite heat , and very contumeliously in his Writings reflected upon Mr. Baxter , who calmly endur'd his Contempt : and when the same person publisht a learned Discourse in Defence of Christianity , Mr. Baxter said , I forgive him all for his Writing that Book . Indeed he was so much the more truly honourable , as he was thought worthy of the hatred of those persons . 'T is true , the Censures and Reproaches of others whom he esteemed and loved , toucht him in the tender part . But he , with the great Apostle , counted it a small thing to be judg'd by Mens day . He was entire to his Conscience , and independent upon the opinion of others . But his Patience was more eminently tried by his continual pains and languishing . Martyrdom is a more easie way of dying , when the Combat and the Victory are finisht at once , than to dye by degrees every day . His Complaints were frequent , but who ever heard an unsubmissive word drop from his lips ? He was not put out of his Patience , nor out of the possession of himself . In his sharp Pains , he said , I have a rational Patience , and a believing Patience , though sense would recoil . His pacifick Spirit was a clear Character of his being a Child of God. How ardently he endeavour'd to cement the breaches among us , which others widen and keep open , is publickly known . He said to a friend , I can as willingly be a Martyr for Love , as for any Article of the Creed . 'T is strange to astonishment , that those who agree in the substantial and great Points of the Reformed Religion , and are of differing Sentiments onely in things not so clear , nor of that moment as those wherein they consent , should still be opposite Parties . Methinks the remembrance how our Divisions lately expos'd us to our watchfull Adversary , and were almost fatal to the interest of Religion , should conciliate our Affections . Our common danger and common deliverance , should prepare our Spirits for a sincere and firm Union . When our Sky was so dark without a glimmering Horizon , then by a new dawning of God's wonderful Providence , a Deliverer appear'd , our gracious Soveraign , who has the Honour of establishing our Religion at home , and gives us hopes of restoring it abroad , in places from whence it has been so unrighteously and cruelly expell'd . May the Union of his Protestant Subjects in religious things so desir'd by wise and good Men , be accomplisht by his princely Counsel and Authority . Integrity with Charity would remove those things that have so long disunited us . I return from this Digression . Love to the Souls of Men was the peculiar Character of Mr. Baxter's Spirit . In this he imitated and honoured our Saviour , who prayed , dyed , and lives for the Salvation of Souls . All his natural and supernatural Endowments were subservient to this blessed End. It was his Meat and Drink , the Life and Joy of his Life to doe good to Souls . His Industry was almost incredible in his Studies : he had a sensitive nature desirous of ease as others have , and saint Faculties , yet such was the continual Application of himself to his great Work , as if the Labour of one Day had supplyed strength for another , and the willingness of the Spirit had supported the Weakness of the Flesh. In his usual Conversation , his serious , frequent and delightfull Discourse was of Divine things , to inflame his Friends with the Love of Heaven . He received with tender Compassion and condescending Kindness , the meanest that came to him for Councel and Consolation . He gave in one year a hundred Pounds to buy Bibles for the poor . He has in his Will dispos'd of all that remains of his Estate after the Legacies to his Kindred , for the benefit of the Souls and Bodies of the Poor . He continued to preach so long notwithstanding his wasted languishing Body , that the last time , he almost died in the Pulpit . It would have been his joy to have been transfigured in the Mount. Not long after his last Sermon , he felt the Approaches of Death , and was confin'd to his sick Bed. Death reveals the Secrets of the Heart , then words are spoken with most feeling and least Affectation . This excellent Saint was the same in his Life and Death : his last Hours were spent in preparing others and himself to appear before God. He said to his Friends that visited him , You come hither to learn to dye , I am not the onely Person that must go this way , I can assure you , that your whole Life be it never so long is little enough to prepare for Death . Have a care of this vain deceitful World , and the Lusts of the Flesh : be sure you choose God for your portion , Heaven for your home , God's Glory for your end , His word for your rule , and then you need never fear but we shall meet with Comfort . Never was a Sinner more humble and debasing himself , never was a sincere Believer more calm and comfortable . He acknowledged himself to be the vilest Dunghilworm ( 't was his usual Expression ) that ever went to Heaven . He admir'd the Divine Condescension to us , often saying , Lord what is Man , what am I vile Worm to the great God ? Many times he prayed , God be merciful to me a Sinner , and blessed God , that that was left upon record in the Gospel as an effectual Prayer . He said , God may justly condemn me for the best Duty I ever did : and all my hopes are from the free Mercy of God in Christ , which he often prayed for . After a slumber he wak'd and said , I shall rest from my Labour : a Minister then present said , And your Works follow you : to whom he replyed , No Works , I will leave out Works , if God will grant me the other . When a Friend was comforting him with the remembrance of the good many had received by his preaching and Writings , he said , I was but a Pen in God's hand , and what praise is due to a Pen. His resign'd Submission to the Will of God in his sharp Sickness , was eminent . When extremity of pain constrain'd him earnestly to pray to God for his release by Death , he would check himself ; It is not fit for me to prescribe , and said , when thou wilt , what thou wilt , how thou wilt . Being in great Anguish , he said , O how unsearchable are his ways and his paths past finding out ! the reaches of his Providence we cannot fathom : and to his Friends , Do not think the worse of Religion for what you see me suffer . Being often ask'd by his Friends , how it was with his inward Man , he replied , I bless God I have a well-grounded Assurance of my Eternal Happiness , and great Peace and Comfort within ; but it was his trouble he could not triumphantly express it , by reason of his extreme pains . He said , Flesh must perish , and we must feel the perishing of it : and that though his Judgment submitted , yet sense would still make him groan . Being asked by a Person of Quality , whether he had not great Joy from his believing Apprehensions of the invisible State , he replied : What else think you Christianity serves for ? He said , The Consideration of the Deity in his Glory and Greatness was too high for our Thoughts ; but the Consideration of the Son of God in our Nature , and of the Saints in Heaven , whom he knew and loved , did much sweeten and familiarize Heaven to him . The description of Heaven in the 12. to the Heb. and the 22. was most comfortable to him : That he was going to the innumerable company of Angels , and to the general Assembly and Church of the first-born , whose Names are written in Heaven ; and to God the Judge of all , and to the spirits of just men made perfect ; And to Jesus the Mediator of the new Covenant , and to the blood of sprinkling that speaks better things than the blood of Abel . That Scripture , he said , deserved a thousand thousand thoughts : He said , O how comfortable is that promise , Eye has not seen , nor Ear heard , neither hath it entred into the heart of Man to conceive the things God hath laid up for those who love him . At another time he said , That he found great comfort and sweetness in repeating the words of the Lord's Prayer , and was sorry that some good people were prejudiced against the use of it ; for there were all necessary Petitions for Soul and Body contain'd in it . At other times he gave excellent Counsel to young Ministers that visited him , and earnestly prayed to God to bless their labours , and make them very successfull in Converting many Souls to Christ : And express'd great joy in the hopes that God would do a great deal of good by them ; and that they were of moderate peacefull Spirits . He did often pray that God would be mercifull to this miserable distracted World : and that he would preserve his Church and Interest in it . He advis'd his Friends to beware of self-conceitedness , as a Sin that was likely to ruine this Nation : and said , I have written a Book against it , which I am afraid has done little good . Being askd whether he had alter'd his mind in Controversial Points , he said , Those that please may know my mind in my Writings : and what he had done was not for his own Reputation , but the Glory of God. I went to him with a very worthy Friend , Mr. Mather of New-England , the day before he died , and speaking some comforting Words to him , he replyed , I have pain , there is no arguing against sense , but I have peace , I have peace . I told him you are now approaching to your long-desir'd home , he answer'd , I believe , I believe . He , said to Mr. Mather , I bless God that you have accomplisht your business , the Lord prolong your Life . He exprest a great willingness to dye , and during his Sickness , when the Question was ask'd , how he did , his reply was , almost well . His joy was most remarkable , when in his own apprehensions Death was nearest : and his Spiritual Joy at length was consummate in Eternal Joy. Thus lived and dyed that blessed Saint . I have without any artificial Fiction of words , given a sincere short Account of him . All our Tears are below the just grief for such an unvaluable Loss . It is the Comfort of his Friends , that he enjoys a blessed Reward in Heaven , and has left a precious Remembrance on the Earth . Now blessed be the gracious God , that he was pleased to prolong the Life of his Servant , so useful and beneficial to the World to a full Age : that he has brought him slowly and safely to Heaven . I shall conclude this Account with my own deliberate Wish : May I live the short remainder of my Life , as entirely to the Glory of God , as he lived ; and when I shall come to the Period of my Life , may I dye in the same blessed Peace wherein he died ; may I be with him in the Kingdom of Light and Love for ever . POSTSCRIPT . I Shall annex two Passages declaratory , the one of his Humility , the other of his Excellent Abilities . He had such an Abhorrence of himself for his Sins , that he said to a Minister , I can more easily believe , that God will forgive me , than I can forgive my self . The other was being in the Pulpit to preach , he found that he had forgot to put his Notes into his Bible : he pray'd to God for his Assistance , and took the first Text that occurr'd to his View in opening the Bible : and preach'd an Excellent Sermon for the Matter and Order of it upon the Priesthood of Christ. After he was come down , he enquir'd of a Minister present , whether he had not tir'd him , who replyed , No ; but with several others declar'd they were exceedingly satisfied with his Discourse : he said , It was necessary to have a Body of Divinity in ones Head. FINIS . BOOKS writ by William Bates , D. D. and sold by B. Aylmer . THE Harmony of the Divine Attributes , in the Contrivance and Accomplishment of Man's Redemption by the Lord Jesus Christ : Or Discourses , wherein is shewed , how the Wisdom , Mercy , Justice , Holiness , Power , and Truth of God are glorified in that great and blessed Work , In Octavo . Considerations of the Existence of God , and of the Immortality of the Soul , with the Recompence of the Future State. To which is added the Divinity of the Christian Religion , proved by the Evidence of Reason , and Divine Revelation , for the Cure of Infidelity , the Hectick Evil of the Times . In Octavo . The Soveraign and Final Happiness of Man , with the effectual Means to obtain it . In Octavo . The Four Last Things , Death and Judgment , Heaven and Hell , practically considered and applied , in several Discourses . In Octavo , and Duodecimo . The Danger of Prosperity discovered , in several Sermons , upon Prov. 1.17 . In Octavo . The great Duty of Resignation in Times of Affliction , &c. In Octavo . A Funeral Sermon preached upon the Death of the Reverend and Excellent Divine , Dr. Thomas Manton , who deceased October 18 , 1677. To which is added , the last publick Sermon Dr. Manton preached . In Octavo . The Sure Trial of Vprightness , opened in several Sermons , upon Psal. 18. v. 23. In Octavo . A Description of the Blessed Place and State of the Saints above , in a Discourse on John 14.2 . Preached at the Funeral of Mr. Clarkson . The Way to the highest Honour , on John 12.26 . Preached at the Funeral of Dr. Jacomb . The Speedy Coming of Christ to Judgment , on Rev. 22.12 . Preached at the Funeral of Mr. Benj. Ashurst . A Funeral Sermon for the Reverend , Holy and Excellent Divine , Mr. Richard Baxter , who Deceased December the 8th . 1691. With an Account of his Life . ADVERTISEMENT . NEwly printed , The Holy Bible , containing the Old Testament and the New : With Annotations and Parallel Scriptures . To which is annex'd , The Harmony of the Gospels : As also , the Reduction of the Jewish Weights , Coins and Measures , to our English Standards . And a Table of the Promises in Scripture . By Samuel Clark , Minister of the Gospel . Printed in Folio of a very fair Letter ; the like never before in one Volume . Printed for Brabazon Aylmer in Cornhill . Notes, typically marginal, from the original text Notes for div A26788-e420 Isa. 64. Job 2. Luke 3. Gen. 6. Hosea 11. Jam. 1.18 . 1 Pet. 11.25 . Psal. 103.13 . Gal. 4. Rom. 8.15 . Joh. 1.12 . Gal. 3.8 . Joh. 20.17 Rom. 8.3 . Heb. 1.5 . Isa. 53. Heb. 3. Heb. Heb. 2. Psal. 119. Exod. 19. Mal. 3. Zech. 9.16 Isa. 57. James . Rom. 8. Deut. 7.9 . Psal. 138.2 Jer. 31.35 . Gen. 49.18 . Psal. 73.24 Psal. 31.5 . 2 Cor. 5.1 . 1 Pet. 4.1 . Psal. 5. Psal. 89. Heb. 11.6 . Rom. 2. Luke 20.35 . Mat. 20.9 . Deut. 24.15 . 2 Tim. 1. Eccles. 1.1 . & 12.8 . Eccl. 1.17 . 1 Pet. 1. O anima ! erige te , tantivales . Aug. in Psal. 103. Ephes. 2. Mark 5. John 10. Mat. 18.10 Psal. 16.11 Psal. 50. Matth. 21.28 , 30. Luke 12. 1 John. ● . Joh. 1.12 . Acts 5.31 . 2 Cor. 6.17 , 18. Psal. 51. 1 Joh. 5.3 . John 14.23 , 24. Heb. 8.10 . Deut. 32.6 Psal. 69. 1 Joh. 5.1 . Revel . 1. Joh. 18.11 Psal. 43. John 9.4 . Eccl. 4.10 . 2 Pet. 3. Col. 1.20 . Isa. 53. His Sermon before the House of Commons 1660. His Books of the Reasonableness of the Christian Religion .