THE BIBLES ABSTRACT AND epitome, THE capital HEADS, EXAMPLES, SENTENCES AND Precepts of all the principal Matters in theology. Collected together for the most part Alphabetically, WITH The Doctrine and uses compendiously explained, of all the chief Points therein contained. TAKEN Out of the best modern Divines, both Reverend and Learned. Here is the pearl that Christ commandement gave, All that men had to sell the same to Save. MAT. 13. Here is the wisdom that will led thee when thou walkest, Watch for thee when thou Sleepest, talk with thee when thou Wakest. Prov. Chap. 6. 22. And will keep thee in Floods from Drowning, Preserve thee in Fire from Burning, Bring thee in Fine from Hell to Heaven. Isa. 43. Why then Forsake her die living, Embrace her Live dying, Prov. 8. 35, 36. Blessed is the man then that heareth her, watching daily at her gates, and waiting at the posts of her doors, PROV. 8. 34. Who so seeketh her earnestly shall have no great travel, for he shall find her sitting at his doors, WISD. 6. 14. Pro RICHARDO BARNARDO. Imprinted at London by G. M. for Andrew Crooke at the sign of the Greene-Dragon in Paules Church-yard, M. DC. XLII. Of GOD. ALbeit Davids Psal 53. 1. fool hath said in his heart that there was no God: and the Psal. 10. 4. Atheist lives in life and conversation as if there were no God. And although the proud man Exod. 5. 3. with Pharaoh questioneth who is the Lord? making honour his idol, Eph 5. 5. the Covetous man his gold, Phil. 3. 19. the Voluptuous man his Belly their gods, and the Heathen worship Gal▪ 4. 8. 2 King. 21. 13. Eze. 8. 16. Zeph. 1. 5. the sun, th● moon and such like in stead of God: And notwithstanding 〈…〉 re be some wicked persons, that think there are no Di●els, because they never saw any of them, so others, that there is no God, because they cannot see him: Yet let all such fools, Atheists, Proud ones, Covetous and Voluptuous men, Heathens and wicked persons know, that they Math. 22. 29. Exod. 3●. 20. err and are deceived not knowing the Scriptures. No man can see God and live: jo●. 1. 18. No man indeed hath ●eene God at any time with the bodily eye,( and yet there is a God) who as he will be job 4. 24. worshipped with the worship of the spirit spiritually, so will he be seen with the eyes of the spirit inwardly. Thou hast a soul ● Gen 1. 1. and yet thou seest it not, there is a wind, and yet thou perceivest it not. So there is a God though thou see him not The which to aver( contrary to the Fool●s saying, Atheists living, Proud mans questioning, Covetous and Voluptuous mans making, Heathens▪ Worshipping, and wicked persons thinking) there are six things that do manifestly and apparently prove that there is an Everlasting and Incomprehensible One, ●o wit, Elohim, E●, Ejeth, Shaddai, Psal 83 18& 86. ●0. Deu● 4. 3●. Ch●p 6 4. 1 Cor. 8 6▪ Iab, Ieho●ah, God Psa. 68 4. alone in P●rsons three, but in Essence only one, 1 jo●. 5 7. 1. Gods Psa. 1●. 1. Rom. 1. 20. works of Creation, Which is a long volume, and especially above all the rest, the soul of man breathed by God in him. 2. The Word of the Lord, The holy Bible, being a brief Compendium, wherein thou m●yest read of Gods nature and being. 3. The Incarnation of the son of God, An engraven Table, in which thou sh●lt see Heb. ●. 16. God himself manifested in the flesh of man. 4. The Consent of all Nations who worship any God rather then no God. 5. The terrors of Conscience, Which maketh the most exod▪ 8. 19. Rom 2 15. Dan 4. 4. Dan. 5. 6. ungodly miscreants, will they, nill they▪ to aclowledge him, and to● tremble at his judgements sent upon them. 6. His Power in sustaining, Prov. 16. 33. his Providence in maintaining, his Love ●n correcting, his Bounty in promising, his faithfulness in performing, his Gra●● in giving, and his Mercy in taking away, maketh the faithful to confess him, and in all his proceedings to justify his wisdom. Now albeit no Creature can define what God is,( because he is incomprehensible, Psa 115 3. 1 Tim. 6. 16. dwelling in the Heavens that none can attain unto) yet it hath pleased himself ●n his word revealed unto us, to reveal himself so far, as our weak capacity c●n conceive him, and that by giving himself many Names, Titles and Attributes, to show what a one he is, who being a most simplo 1 Cor. 8. Essence voided of all composition, not subject to any accident, or quality, useth in the Scriptures to entitle himself by many qualities, the which we must so understand, that whatsoever he is, whether Good, Wise, powerful, &c. He is the same by Essence not by quality. Therefore describing himself to Moses what a God he is, He first calleth himself exod 6. 3. jehovah, noting thereby his simplo Essence, after saith he is exod. 34. 6. Strong, merciful, &c. Teaching thereby that he is such a God, not by reason of any quality, but by Essence. Attributes given unto God are of two sorte● nominal, or real. nominal Attributes are of 3. sorts. Signifying 1. Gods Essence, such is the Name jehovah. Exod▪ 6. 3. 2. The Persons in the Essence, such is the Name Elohim. Gen. 1. ●. 3. Gods essential works, such is the Name Omnipotent. Apoc. 19. 6. real Attributes are of two sorts, Absolute, or Relative. Absolute, Are they only that are proper unto God, showing his Divine essence, such is, Deut 3●. 27. eternity, immensity, &c. Relative, Are such as may( though not in that sort as they are in God, yet in part, and by comparison) be given to the Creatures, as wisdom, Iustice, &c. In part, Because these are Ess●ntiall to God, and accident●ll to man, infinite in God, and finite ●n man. By Comparison, Because we are made Collos. 3. 10. like unto him in righteousness and holiness, and so shall be with him in the Heavens. Now for the better understanding of the Names, Titles and Attribut●s, given by God to himself, as also by man u●to him; these things are to be observed following, God is called A name given by himself, thereby to point at and to shadow out unto us his Essence: for that no man can comprehend the same, being incomprehensible. To show unto us thereby, the distinction that is to be made of the Persons in trinity. And they are negative names, that by them we may know what he is not. And they are names appointed, to signify unto us his essential properties. To show unto us, that relation that it hath pleased him to have to his Creatures. And they are names affirmed of him in the Abstract, to note his most simplo Essence, and so Christ is called, 1 Cor. 1 30. wisdom, righteousness, &c. And they are names affirmed of him in the Concrete, that by them we might know that he hath of himself a true substance. And they are Attributes given unto him figuratively and by a similitude. And so he is called. A Buckler. That he is our defence in all dangers. Psal ●8. 2. Psal. 18 2. Psal. 90. 1.& 71. ●& 18. 2. The horn of Salvation. That he doth defend us as the horns of the beasts do descend themselves withall. A Habitation and rock. That he is our safety to trust unto, and him with whom to dwell is to dwell in safety. And he is said to have by an Anthropomors●sis. God is said to have An arm. By which is meant His Power, Strength and Fortitude. Gen 4●. 24. God is said to have Apple of the eye By which is meant That which is most dearest unto him. Deut▪ 32. 10. God is said to have Eyes. By which is meant His Providence, knowledge and favour. 2 Chron. 16. 9. God is said to have Eye-lidds. By which is meant The incomprehensible Judgement of God. Psal. 1●. 4. God is said to have Backparts By which is meant An imperfect representation of him. Exod. 33. 23. God is said to have ●aress. By which is meant His willingness in hearing our prayers. Psal 31. 2. God is said to have A Face. By which is meant His Presence and favourable kindness. Psal. 31. 16. God is said to have His face hide. By which is meant That declareth his severity. Psal. 30. 7. God is said to have feet. By which is meant His Strength and presence to govern. Psal. 110 1. God is said to have A finger. By which is meant His Spirit, virtue and efficacy. Exod. 31. 18. God is said to have A fo●testoole. By which is meant His Authority over the ungodly. Isa 66. 1. God is said to have A Head By which is meant The Essence of his deity and God▪ head▪ Dan. 7. 9. God is said to have A H●nd. By which is meant His Might, Protection and Justice. job ●9. 21. God is said to have A right hand. By which is meant His authority and his Fortitude. Psal. 110. 1. God is said to have A Heart. By which is meant His lively Essence and his Decree. Gen. 6. 6. God is said to have A Mouth. By which is meant His Commandements given unto men▪ jer. 9. 12. God is said to have Memory. By which is meant That he remembreth mercies. Psal. 25. 6▪ God is said to have A Nose. By which is meant His very Anger against sinners. jer. ●5. 32. God is said to have nostrils. His favourable acceptance of Sacrifices. Gen. 8 21. God is said to have Oblivion. By which is meant That he imputeth not our sins unto us. Psal. 32. 2. God is said to have Sences. By which is meant His Providence over his Creatures. Psal 14. 2. God is said to have A soul. By which is meant His Life together with his Essence. Isa 1. 14. God is said to have A Shade. By which is meant His Protection over all his Creatures. Psal 121. 5. God is said to have A Throne. By which is meant His Princely power and majesty. Isa. 66. 1. God is said to have A Way. By which is meant The course of all his Actions. Psal. 103. 7. God is said to have Wings. By which is meant His defence in preserving the godly. Psal. 17. 8. And he is said to God is said to breath. By which is meant That he doth infuse the soul into the body. Gen. 2 7. God is said to hear. By which is meant That he accomplisheth mans request. Psal 5. 2. God is said to See. By which is meant That he knoweth all things that are done. Psal. 11 4. God is said to Smell. By which is meant His acceptation of mans doings. Gen 8. 21. God is said to Sorrow. By which is meant The dislike of the things which causeth it. Gen. 6. 6. God is said to Repent. By which is meant A change of the thing purposed on Mans repentance. job. 3. 10. God is said to Rest. By which is meant That he ceaseth from Creating. Gen. 2. 2. God is said to Sit. By which is meant That he playeth the part of a Judge. Psal. 2. 4. God is said to sleep. By which is meant That he is flow in succouring. Psal. 44. 23. God is said to Come unto us. By which is meant That he causeth us to feel his Grace. Psal. 6. 4. God is said to Dwell in us. By which is meant That he confirms us in the trust of his Grace. joh. 14 23. God is said to Descend▪ By which is meant That he is not ignorant of the things on Earth. Gen. 11. 7. And he is said to be by an Anthropopathei●▪ angry. By which is meant His threatening of punishment. Ho●e▪ 11 ●. Exalted. By which is meant That his majesty is exalted. Psal. 57 11. jealous By which is meant His great Indignation against idolatry. Numb. 25. 11. justified. By which is meant That he is justified being just and good. Luk 7. 2●. Full. By which is meant That he is not delighted in a thing. Isa. 1. 14. Silent. By which is meant That he heareth not our Prayers. Psal. 21. 1. Weary. By which is meant That he cannot abide some thing. Isa. 1. 14.( 2 K. 19. 31. Zeal●us. By which is meant The love that he hath to his Church. Isa. 9 9. Patient. By which is meant His willing forbearance to punish till sins be ●ipened. 2 Pet. 3. 9. jehovah whose knowledge is Rom. ●1. 33. infallible, Providence inexplicable, Judgements inevitable, Wisd 8. 1● Decree immutable, job. 10. 7. wrath terrible, and Love unspeakable, whose Spirit doth▪ s●nctifie us, Pro. 2. 10. wisdom teach us, counsel guide us, Favour compass a Iam. 1. 17. b Rom. 1. 18. us, and Power govern us, the most High over all the Earth, wonderful and great 1 joh 4. 10. in counsel, mighty and excellent in works, rich in Mercy, Exod. 15. 11. Joh. 1. 18. glorious in holiness, fearful in praises. The regeneration of our nature, our defence in adversity, perseverance c Ps. 5. 10. Ps. 83. 18 Isa. 28. 29. Jer▪ ●2. 19. Eph. 2. 4. in the Faith, the life of them that believe, and in the end is eternal life is he that elected us to salvation, promising remission of sins by believing in Christ, being the first Person name in order, not in power nor time, existing of himself, and of no other is called Is●. 63. 16. Eph. 4 13, &c. Father, First in respect of his natural son Christ begotten from eternity. Secondly in respect of the elect his Gal. 4. 5. Eph●. 5. c. 3 14. Adopted sons, who being not sons by nature, are made sons by grace. God the Father is called Alpha and Omega. Rev. 1. 8. Abba Father. Mark. 14 36. All sufficient. Gen. 17. 1. Almighty. Rev. 1. 8. The arm of the godly. Isa 33 2. An Assurance. Prov. 3. 26. An Avenger. Psal ●4. 1. Author of Beauty. Wis●. 13. 3. Author of Peace. 1 Cor. 14. 33. bountiful. 1 Pet. 2. 3. A Builder. H●b 3. 4. A Buckler Gen 15. 1. A captain. 2 Chro. 13. 12. A Castle. Psal. 31. 1. A Compasser. Psal▪ 3●. 7. Christs Head. 1 Cor. 11 3▪ Consuming fire. Heb. 12. 29. A creator. Isa 40. 28. A Defender. exod▪ 18. 4. A Deliverer. Idem. The ear of Jealousi●. Wisd. 1. 10. An Eye to the blind. Prov. 15. 3. An Elector Rom. 8. 33. An Everlasting light. Isa. 66 19▪ An Everlasting strength. Isa 26. 4. Excellent. job. 36. 26. A Father. Mal 1. 6. A Heavenly Father. Luk 6. 36. A living Father. jo● 6▪ 57. Father of fatherless. Psal 68. 5. Father of Glory. Eph. 1. 17. Father of Israel jer. 31. 9. Father of lights. Iam. 1. 17. Father of Mercies. 2 Cor. 1. 3. Father of Spirits and lives. Heb. 12. 19. Father of Christ▪ 2 Cor. 1. 3. The fear of Isaac. Gen. 31. 42. The first and the last. Isa. 41. 4. A fortress. Psal. 18. ●. The Former of all things. Prov. 26. 10. The fountain of jacob. Deut. 33. 28. The fountain of living Water▪ jer. 2. 13. God of Abraham. Gen. 28. 13. God of All Flesh. jer 32. 27. God of All Comfort. 2 Cor. 1. 3. God of All Grace. 2 Pet. 5. 10. God of Bethel. Gen. 31. 13. God of Consolation. Rom 15. 5. God of Famil●es. jer▪ 31▪ 1. God of Glory. Act. 7. 2. God of Gods. Deut. 10. ●7. God of Heaven. Dan. 2 19. God of The Hebrewes. Exod 3. 18. God of Hope. Rom. 15. 13. God of Iesurim. Deut. 33. 26. God of Jews and Gentiles. Rom. 3. 29. God of David. Isa. 38 5. God of Isaac. Gen. 28. 13. God of Israel. 2▪ Sam. 23. 3. God of Judgement. Isa. 30. 18. God of Knowledge. 1 Sam. 2. 3. God of The Living. Mat. 22. 32. God of Love. 2 Cor. 13. 11. God of Mercies. Neh. 9. 17. God of Patience. Rom. 15. 5. God of Peace. Heb. 13. 20. God of pity. Psal 26. 15. God of righteousness. Psal. 4. 1. God of Sha●rach. Dan. 3. 10. God of Shem. Gen 9. 26. God of Spirits. Numb. 26. 1●. God of Strength. Psal▪ 43. 2. God of Truth. jer. 10 10. God of Vengeance. Psal 94 1. God of The whole world▪ Isa 54. 5. Almighty God. Exod. 6. 3. A blessed God. 1 Tim. 1. 11. A dreadful God. Deut. 7. 21. An everlasting God. Gen. 21. 33. An eternal God. Deut. 33. 27. A favourable God. Psal. 99. 8. A faithful God. Deut. 7 9. A good God. Psal. 25. 8. A gracious God. Exod 34. 6. A Great God. Psal. 86. 10. A Holy God. Exod. 34. 14. A Jealous God. Exod. 20. 5. A Just God. Deut. 32. 4. An Invisible God. Col 1. 15. A merciful God. Exod. 34. 6. A Mighty God. Gen. 49. ●4. A most High God. Gen 14. 20. A living God. josh 3. 10. A long-suffering God. Exod. 34. 6. A Perfect God. Mat. 5 48. A pitiful God. Psal. 86. 15. A Righteous God. Psal. 25. 8. A Seeing God. Gen. 16. 13. A Strong God. Nah. 1. 7. A Terrible God. Deut. 10. ●7. A True God. Isa 65. 16. An Uncorruptible God. Rom. 1. 23. An Unvariable God. Iam. 1. 17. An Unchangeable God. Iam. 1. 17. An Upright God. Psal. 25. 8. And a God only wise. 2 Tim. 1. 17. The generation of the just. Psal▪ 14 5. The guide of our youth. jer 3. 4. A guide in danger. Deut. 8. 15. A great Reward. Gen. 15. ●. A governor. Psal. 8. 9. A Habitation. Psal. 90. 1. The Habitation of Justice. jer. 50. 7. A Helper. Psal. ●0. 16. Health of Israell. jer. 3. 23. The holy one. job 6. 10. The holy one of Israel. Isa 1. 4.. Hope in Adversity. jer. 17 17. The Hope of his People. Ioel 3. 16. The Hope of Israel. jer. 14 8. The Hope of All the ends of the World. Psal. 65 5. The Head over all. 1 Chro. 29. 11. The horn of Salvation. Psal. 18. 2. A Householder. Mat 21. 33. A Husband. Isa. 54. 5. A Husbandman joh. 1●. 1. The Judge of The World. Gen. 18. 25. The Judge of The widows. Psal▪ 68. 5. The Judge of All the Earth. Gen 18. 25. A just Judge. Psal. 9 8. I am that I am. Exod. 3. 14. A Keep●r. Psal. 121. 5. King of all the Earth. Psal 47. 7. King of Glory. Psal. 24. 8. King of Hostes. Isa. 6. 5. King of jacob. Isa 41. 21. King of Israell. Isa 44. 6. King of Kings 1 Tim. 6. 16. King of N●tions. Rev 15. 3. King of Saints. Idem. An eternal King. 1 Tim. 1. 17. An Everlasting King. jer. 10. 10. An Invisible King. 1 Tim. 1. 17. A Great King. Psal. 95 3. A Leader. Deut. 32. 12 Lord: Lord God. Gen. 2. 8. Lord of the Hebrewes. Exod. 7. 16. Lord of Anger. Nah. 1. 2. Lord of Glory. 1 Cor 2. 7. Lord of the Harvest. Luk 10. 2. Lord of Heaven, and Mat. 11. 25.& Lord of Earth. jo. 1. 9. Lord of Hostes. Isa. 14. 27. Lord of Lords. Deut. 10 7. Lord of Kings. Dan. 2. 47. Lord of Salvation. Psal. 88. 1. Lord of the Vineyard. Mat. 21. 40. The life of Man. Deut 30. 20. The light of Israell. Isa. 10. 17. The lifter up of mans head. Psal. 3. 3. Love. 1 job. 1. 8. A Maker. job ●2. 22. A Master. Eph 6. 9. A Man of war.. Exod. 15. 3. A Mighty one. Isa. 1. 24. A most High. Psal 83. 18. Most Just. job ●4 17. Nature. Gal. 4. 8. Onely wise. Rom. 16. 27. A Nourisher. Isa. 1. 2. A Preserver of men▪ job. 7. 20. A Planter. Gen. 2. 8. A Ponderer of the hearts. Prov 24. 12. The portion of jacob. jer. 51. 19. possessor of Heaven, & ●. Gen. 14. 19. Praise. Exod. 15. 2. Prince of Princes. Dan. 2. 25. A Record. job 16. 19. A Refuge for the oppressed. Psal. 9. 9. A Rebuker. Hos 5. 2. A Redeemer. Isa. 43. 1. A Revealer of Secrets. Dan. 2. 47. A Rewarder. Gen. 15. 1. A rock. Psal. 18. 2. The rock of Israell. 2 Sam 23. 3. The rock of Salvation. Deut. 32. 15. A strong rock. Psal. 71. 3. The Ruler of the World. Isa. 16. 1. A Saviour of Israell. jer. 14. 8. Salvation. 1 Cron. 16. 38. A sanctuary. Isa. 8. 13. A secret place. Psal. 32 7. The searcher of the hearts. Rom. 8. 27. A shadow. Isa. 25. 4. A shepherd. Psal. 23. 1. A Shield. Psal. ●15. 11. A Spirit. joh 4. 24. A stay in calamity. Psal. 18. 18. The strength of the Heart. Psal. 73. 26. The strength of Israell. 1 Sam. 15. 29. The strength of Life and man▪ Ps. 27. 1.& 140. 7. A strong hold. Nah. 1. 7. A strong Man. Psal. 78. 65. The ston of Israell. Gen. ●9. 24. A Succourer. Psal. 22. 19. A sure Trust. Psal. 71. 7. The Trust of the poor. Psal. 14. 6. A Treasurer. Isa. 33. 6. Truth. Deut. 32. 4. A witness. jer. 29. 23. wonderful. josh. 13. 8. The Sword of Exc●llencie. Deut. 33▪ 29. Additions▪ God the Father is compared unto A righteous Father. joh. 17. 25. A Righteous Lord. Psal. 7. 11. A Strong Lord. Psal. 24. 8. Almighty Lord. The Lord mighty in battle. A Song. Isa. 12. 2. The sun. Psal. 84. 12. A Lawgiver. Iam. 4 12. A righteous Judge. Psal. 7. 12. Strength. Psal. 31. 5. A Judge. Psal. 50. 6. An adversary. Lam. 2 4. A Cart pressed down. Amos 2. 13. A crier. jer 25. 30. A counsellor. Psal. 16. 7. A crown of Glory. Psal. 28. 5. A due. Hos. 14. 5. A Diadem of Beauty. Isa. 28. 5. Fire and flamme. Isa▪ 10. 17. A Friend. Luk. 11. 5. A giant. job 16. 14. A mighty giant. jer. 20. 11. A House of defence. Psal. 31. 2. A lender. Luk. 7. 41. A labouring Man▪ joh. 5. 17. A mighty Man▪ Isa. 42. 13. A seeds Man▪ Mat▪ 13. 3. A Man of Wa●re. Isa. 42. 13. A Mother. Isa. 49. 15. A Moth. Hos. 5. 12. A bear. Lam. 3. 10. An Eagle. Deut. 32. 11. A Leopard. Hos 13. 7. A lion. Hos. 11. 10. A Purifier of Gold and Silver A Purger of Gold and Silver Mal. 3. 3. A Refiner of Gold and Silver rottenness. Hos. 5. 12. A Potter. Rom. 9. 23. A strong Rock. Psal. 31. 2. The Mountaines. Psal. 125. 2. A Woman traveling. Isa 42. 14. Attributes of God the son. SHiloah Emanu●ll, Christ, the only son of God, the brightness of his Glory, the H●b 1. 2, ● Eph. 1. 22. Col. 1. 18.& 2. 3. 2 Pet. 1. 17. Rev. 5. 12. Psal. 2. 8. Psal. 72. 8. Eph 1. 20. Psal. 72. 17. Heb. 1. 4. &c. Phil. 2 9. express Image of his P●●son, heir of all things, mo●e excellent then the Angels, havi●g Honour, Glory, Power, Strength, praise, dignity, Riches and wisdom,( yea all ●reasures of knowledge and wisdom) The Heathen for his inheritance, the earth for his Possessions, and the Heavenly places for his seat, far above all power, Mi●ht, Dominion and Principalities, with a Name given him above all names,( ●t which every ●nee should bow, &c) Being the second Person in trinity, begotten of his Father from eternity, in one P●rson the son of God, and very man; Gal. 4. 4. Man,( non excun●o quod habuit, said induendo quod non habuit) not by losing that he had, but by accepting wh●t he had not, our miserable nature, Conceived of a Virgin by the Holy Ghost, Called of his Father ever since the fall of Adam, to be a Mediator betw●ene God and Man, desired of the patriarchs, p●efigured in the Law, foretold by the Prophets, accomplished in the time of Grace, 1 Tim● 16 manifested in the fl●sh, Justified in the Spirit, seen of Angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, and rece●ved up into glory: For man became a King to rule, a Prophet to teach, and a Priest to sacrifice. And is called God the son is called An Apostle. Heb. 3. 1. An Advocate. ● joh. ●. 1. Amen. Rev. 3. 14. An angel of the Lord▪ Zach. 1. 12. Annoynted of the Lord. Heb. 3. 13. Author of Peace. 1 Cor. 14. 33. Author of Faith. Heb. 12. 2. Author of S●lvation. Heb. 5. 9. The Ancient of Dayes. Dan 7. 22. A Babe. Luk 2. 16. Gods Beloved▪ Mat. 12. 18. The Beloved. Cant 5 6. well beloved. Cant. 1. 13. A bridegroom. Mat. ●. 15. The Bread of life. ●oh. 6 51. Childrens bread. Mat. 15 26. Branch of righteousness. jer 33. 15. A Branch of the roote of I●sse. Isa 11. 1. A captain of the Lord. Hos 5. 15. The captain of the Lord of Hostes. josh. 5. 15. captain of Salvation. Heb 2. 10. A child. Isa. 9. 6. The Consolation of Israell Luk. ●. 25. The Holy one of Israell Act. ●. 14. A Ruler in Israell Mich. 5. 2. The Glory of Israell Luk 2 32. The Sceptor of Israell Numb 24. 17. The strength of Israell 1 Sam 15. 29. The ston of Israell Gen. 49. 24. The Cov●nant of the People. Isa 42. 6. A Messenger of the Covenant. Mal 3. 1. David. jer. 30. 9. The generation of David. Rev 22. 16. Death for Man. Hos. 13. 14. A Curse for Man. Gal. ●. 13. sin for Man. 2 Cor. 5. 21. The Desire of all Nations. Hag. 2. ●. A D●liv●rer. Rom. 11. 26. A Doctor. Mat. 23. 8. The door of the sheep. joh. 10. 7. An everlasting Father. Isa. 9. 6. A Feeder. Mat. 2 6. The first Begotten. 1 Cor. 15. 20. The first fruits. Rev. 1. 5. The first born of the Dead. Col. 1. 15. The finisher of our F●●th. Heb. 12. 2. Flesh. joh. 1. 14. A Foundation. Isa. 28. 16. A fountain. Ca●t. 4. 15. A Forerunner. Heb. 6. 28. God, John 1. 1. The Elect of God. Isa. 41. 1. The Gift of God. John 4. 10. The Image of God. Col. 1. 15. The lamb of God. John 1. 29. The Power of God. 1 Cor. 1. 24. The wisdom of God. Idem. Gods Elect. Isa 42. 1. Gods Servant. Gods son. Mat. 2. 15. Gods Messenger. Mal. 3. 1. A Golden Altar. Rev. 8 3. A governor. Mat. 2. 26. The Head of all Power. Col. 2. 10. The Head of ●rincipalitie. The Head of the Church. Eph. 5. 23. The Head of every Man. 1 Cor. 1. 1. 3. The heir of all things. Heb. 1. 12. The heir of the World Rom. 4. 13. The horn of Salvation. Luke 1. 69. A Husband. 2 Cor. 11. 2. The Judge of quick and dead. Acts 10. 42. A Justifier. Rom. 3. 26. A King. Zach. 9. 9. King of Kings. Rev. 16. 19. King of Glory. Psal. 24. 10. King of the Earth. Zach. 14. 9. King of the Jews. Mat. 27. King of Israell. John 1. 49. King of Saints. Rev. 15. 3. The Law. Gal. 2. 4. The End of the Law. Rom. 10. 4. Light. John 1. 9. A great Light▪ Isa 9. 2. The Light of the Gentiles. Isa. 49. 6. The Light of the World John 1. 7. The Light of Men. John 1. 4. Life, John 14. 6. eternal Life, John 1. 4. The lion of judah, Rev. 5. 5. Lord of Quick and Dead, Rom. 14. 9. Lord of Hostes, Isaiah 44. 6. Lord of Glory, 1 Cor. 2. 8. Lord of Life, Acts ●. 15. Lord of Lords, Rev. 19 6. Lord of the Sabbath, Luke 6. 5. Man, Romans 5. 15. An innocent Man, Luke 23. 14. The New Man, Ephes 4. 24. A Master, Mat. 10. 24. A mediator, Heb 9. 15. A Messiah the Prince. Dan. 9. 25. A Minister of the Tabernacle, Heb. 8. 2. A Minister of Circumcision, Rom. 15. 8. A Minister of the Sanctuary, Heb. 8. 2. michael, Dan. 10. 13. A Nazarite, Mat. 2. 23. One, One Lord, Zech 14. 9. A great One, Isaiah 19. 20. A Just One, Acts 3. 14. ointment, Cant. 1. 3. A Passeover, 1 Cor. 5. 7. The Prince of the Earth, Acts 3. 15. The Prince of Life, Acts 3. 15. The Prince of Kings, Rev. 1. 5. The Prince of Salvation, Hebr●ws ●. 10. The Prince of Peace, Isaiah 9. 6. The Messenger of Peace, Ephes. 2. 14. A physician, Mat. 9. 12. A Plant of renown, Ezech. 34. 29. A polished Shaft, Isaiah 49. 2. A Priest, Heb. 7. 17. A High Priest, Heb. 4. 4. A holy High Priest, harmless High Priest, Heb. 2. 17. A merciful High Priest, Heb 7. 26. A faithful High Priest, An Undefiled High Priest, A Prophet, John 6. 4. A purger of sins, Heb. 1. 3. A ransom, 1 Tim 2. 6. A Reaper, Rev 14. 15. A Reconciliator, Rom 3. 25. Redemption, Isaiah 59 24. ●abbi, John 6. 25. righteousness, jer 23. 6 Resurrection of the Dead, John 11. 25. A Rod and staff, Isaiah 11 1. A Spirit, An eternal Spirit, Heb. 9. 4. A quickening Spirit, 1 Cor. 15 45. The Spring of Lebanon, Cant. 4. 15. Salvation, Luke 2. 30. Sanctification, 1 Cor. 1. ●. A Sanctuary, Isa 8. 14. A samaritan, Luke. 10. 33. A Saviour, joh. 4. 42. The Second Adam, 1 Cor. 15. 45. The seed of Abraham, Gal. 3. 10. The seed of the Woman, Gen. 3. 15. A Servant, Isa. 42. 1. Gods Servant, Math. 12. 18. A shepherd, Ez●. 24 33. josh. 10. 11. Heb. 13. 20. A righteous Servant, Isa 53. 11. The sceptre of Israell, Numb. 24. 17. A Ruler in Israell, Mich. 5. ●. The strength of Israell, 1 Sam. 15. 29. Glory of Israell, Luk. 2. 32. The son of righteousness Mal. 9. 2. The son of Abraham, Mat. 1. 12. The son of David, Mat. 1. 12. The son of joseph, John 1. 45. The son of God, Luk. 1. 35. The son of the most High, Luk 1. 32. The son of Man, Mat. 12 8. The son of a Virgin, Isa 7. 14. A Deere son, Col. 1. 13. A Beloved son, Mat. 3. 17. The first born son, Mat 1. 25. The star of jacob, Numb. ●4 17. A bright morning star, Rev. 22. 16. A ston to stumble at, 1 Pet. 2. 8. A Corner ston, Eph. ●. 10. An Elect ston, A precious ston, 1 Pet 2. 6. spiritual Rock, 1 Cor. 10. 4. spiritual drink, Rev. ●. 7. spiritual Meate, 1 Cor. 10. ●.& joh. 6. ●3. A Teacher, joh. 3. ●. A green three, Luke 23. 31. A Vine, joh. 15. 1. A Way, joh 14. 6. well-beloved, Cant. 1. 12. A Well of Living water, Psal. 36. 9. A Well of Life, jo●. 4. 14. A Wedding garment, Mat. 22. 12. wonderful, Isa. 9. 6. A witness, A faithful witness, Rev. 1. 5. A true witness. Rev. 3. 7. Additions. God the son is compared unto Shilo, Gen 49. A lamb undefiled, 1 Pet. 1. 19. A lamb without Spot 1 Pet. 1. 19. An army with Banners, Cant. 6. 4. An Apple three, Cant. 2. 3. A brazen Serpent, Numb. 21. 9. A Bundle of Myrrh, Cant. 1. 13. A Cluster of camphor, Cant. 1. 14. A Carcase, Mat. 24. 28. Fullers soap, Mal 3. 2. Purging fire, Mal 3. 2. A goat, Lev. 16. 22. A hen, Mat. 23. ●7. A Ladder, Gen. 28. 12. A Lillye, Cant 2. 3. Lightning, Mat. 24. ●7. The Mercy seat, Exod. 25. 17. A Net, Isa. 8. 14. A Snare, Idem. A thief, Rev 3. ●. rain and Showers, Psal. 72 6. The paschal lamb, Exod. 16. 6. A ston cut out of The mountain, Dan. 2. 45. A row and Hart, Cant. 1. 9. A worm, Psal. 22. 6. Ierushalem, Cant. 6. 3. Mel●hisedec, Heb. 7. 3. Moses, Acts 3. ●●. Solomon, Cant. 3. 11. Tirzah. Cant. 6. 3. And he may be called. Our Eye, Because by him w● See the Father. Our Mouth, Because by him w●●peake to the Father. Our Hand, Because by him w●●●ffer unto the Father. And he is truly called The Way without Wandring in our Peregrination, whereby ou● paths are directed. Truth without Shadowing in our Deliberation, whereby ou● Errors are corrected. Life without Ending in our Remuneration, whereby ou● mortality is eternised. In that he is Eph. 1. 7. Rom. 3. 24. Col. 1.20 1 Pet. 1. 2. Hebr. 10. 9. Our Righteousness to justify ●s. Our wisdom to teach ●s. Our Reconciliation to reconcile ●s. Our holiness to sanctify us. Our Redemption to free us. Our Reward to glorify us. So that by him Col. 2. 3, 13. 1 Thes. 1. 10. Our sins are discharged, we Cleared, the Debt paid. The Score is crossed, the Creditor satisfied, and the Debtor acquitted. In that his Condemnation is our Absolution and Passion our Payment. Death is our Life and Blood our Purgation. Sacrifice is our Satisfaction and Curse our Blessing. Grave is our Mor●●fication and Ascention our Glorification. Who then forsake him die living, who then embrace him, live dying. For in him whosoever abideth hath no Condemnation, And from him whosoever ●li●e●h hath no Consolation. Attributes of GOD the HOLY GHOST. TH● HOLY GHOST ●s the Instructor which teacheth us, the Spirit of life which quickeneth us, the Water w 〈…〉 h reneweth us, the Fire which inflames us, the Comfortor which helps us, the Advocate which speaks for us, and the everlasting fountain and Spirit of Truth, fro● whom all Rom. 8. 9. 1 Cor. 3. 16. Truth and celestial Riches do flow unto us: And is called by the Name of Spirit, joh. 15. 26. proceeding from the Father and the son, to show the Essence and Nature that he is of: For as the spirit of Man must needs be truly of Mans n●●ure; and is the most formal and essential part of Man: So and much more it must b● thought of the Spirit of God, upon whom no Composition falle●h And ●his i● Effect is the Apostles Argument, 1 Cor. 2. 11. Who of Men( saith he) knoweth the ●hings of M●n, but the spirit of Man that is in him? So also none knoweth the things of God, but the Spirit of God who is in him, and of his own Essence and Nature, as the opposition sheweth plainly. God the Holy Ghost is called The Spirit of Adoption, Rom. 8. 15. The Spirit of Chr●st, Rom. 8. 9. The Spirit of Supplication, Zach 12. 10. The Spirit of Consolation, 2 Thes. 2. 16. The Spirit of counsel, Isa. 11. 2. The Spirit of eternity, Heb. 9. 14. The Spirit of the Father, Mat 18. 20. The Spirit of God, Gen 1. 2. The Spirit of the gr●ce of God, Acts 14. 26. The Spirit of Holinesse, Rom. 1 4. The Spirit of Interpretation, 1 Cor. 12. 10. The Spirit of Knowledge; Isa 11. 2. The Spirit of prophesy, 1 Cor 12. 10. The Spirit of the Lord, Isa. 11. 2. The Spirit of Right, John 14 27. The Spirit of Sanctification, Rom. 1. 4. The Spirit of the son, Gal. 4. 6. The Spirit of Revelation, Eph. 1. 17. The Spirit of wisdom, Isa. 11. 2. The Spirit of Working 1 Cor. 12. 10. The Spirit of Miracles, 1 Cor. 12. 10. The Seven spirits of God, Rev 4 5. The earnest of Gods Spirit, ● Cor. 5. 5. An eternal Spirit, Heb 9. 14. The Finger of God, Eph. 8. 19. The Pledge of God, 2 Cor. 15. 5. God the Holy Ghost, &c. The seal of God, 2 Cor. 1. 2●. The witness of God, Rom. 8. 16. The kiss of God, Cant. 1. 2. A Comforter, John 14. 16. The Holy Ghost, Acts 2. 4. The holy Spirit, Eph. 4. 30. A Heavenly Gift, Heb. 6 4. The Earnest of the Spirit, 2 Cor. 1. 22. The mind of Christ, 1 Cor. ●. 16. The oil of gladness, Psal 45. 7. The Power of the most High, Luke 1. 35. S●ede of God, 1 joh. 3. 9. The Teacher of the faithful, John 14. 26. The Teacher of truth, Idem. Water, joh 3. 5.& Ez. 16. 9. And is compared unto Cloven tongues like fire, Acts 2. Fire, a mighty wind, 1 Cor. 3 13. A Dove, Mat. 3. 16. ointment. 1 joh. 2. 27. The Gifts of the Holy Ghost. By the Holy Ghost 1. The Word Of wisdom, the word of Knowledge, Faith, gifts of Healing, 1 Cor. 1●. 6. working of Miracles, prophecy, discerning of Spirits, divers kinds of Tongues, and the interpretation of tongues, &c. is given. 2. The Godly Are Sanctified, and the very Reprobates have a taste of Heavenly Heb. 6. 4. gifts, and of the good Word of God, and of the Promises of the World to come. 3. All Excellency In common exod. 31. 3. gifts of Nature and Reason, as Strength and courage, Artes and Sciences, policy and government is given unto man, yea * 1 Sam. 11. 6. unto many that never heard of our Saviour Christ. 4. Influence perpetual, effectual and vital of saving Grace, from Christ the John 6. 63. John. 14. 17. 1 Pet. 1. 2. Head of every true Member is given to believers, in which sense the world cannot receive or know the same. 5. virtues charity, constancy, benignity, Faith, goodness, Joy, Longanimity, mildness, modesty, Love, P●tience and peace of Conscience are got●en, with seven other principal virtues,( to wit) wisdom, Understanding, counsel, Fortitude, Knowledge, godliness and the fear of God, which worketh in a man rwo sorts of Mercy corporal, and Spiritu●ll: corporal, to Feed the Hungry, Give drink to the thirsty, Cloath the naked, ransom the Captive, Harbour the Harberlesse, Visit the sick, Bury the Dead. spiritual, to Correct the Sinner, Instruct the ignorant, counsel the doubtful, bear wrong patiently, Forgive Injury, Pray for all his Enemies, Serve god truly. Grieve not then the holy Spirit, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of Redemption. Ephes 4. 30. read Gal. 5. 6. Attributes of the Trinity, with a description of the Unity. THe Names and Titles that are common to the whole Trinity, are of four sorts or orders. 1. Some signify their Essence, as jehovah. 2. Others their Persons in general, as Elohim. 3. Divers their essential properties, as Almighty. 4. Many are in general affirmed of each Person, as they have relation to Creatures, and such is the Name, Creator, Redeemer, Sanctifier, &c. Albeit the word Creator is given to the Father, Redeemer to the son, and Sanctifier Note to the Holy Ghost, yet in truth they are common to all the three Persons in one Essence. Now a Person is a distinct subsisting of the whole God-head, and an individu●ll understanding, John 1. 1. Chap. 5. 31. Cha. 14. 5, 16. Col. 2. 9. and incommunicable Subsistence, living of itself, and ●o● sustained by another: So that the three Persons in the Trinity, are not three several Substances, but three distinct Subsistences, or three divers manner of being of one and the same Substance and divine Essence. The Divine Essence is one and the self same thing truly subsisting in the Three persons: Now the Essence doth not beget an Essence, but the Person of the Father begetteth Psal. 2. 7. H●b. 1. 5. John. 5. 26. the Person of the son, and the Holy Ghost proceedeth from the Father and the son by an eternal and incomprehensible Spiration. And thus the Three persons make all one Divine Essence, and one God, being in Nature Co●ssentiell, in dignity coequal, in time coeternal, in measure unmeasurable, in Majesty inscrutable, in Nature incomprehensible, in Power irresistible, in Will unchangeable, in place not Circumscript, in Tim● indefinite, in love immutable, in favour unspeake●ble, and in Promise inviolable, Good without quality, Great without quantity, August. Medic. cap. ●2. creator without want, in Act without Motion, every where present without sight: The First and the last without time, making all things Mutable, without any passive Mutability in himself. In this mystery of the Trinity, how in that most simplo and single Essence of God, there be certain Substances of God or Persons truly subsisting, Three in one, and One in three, differing but not divided, several but not sund●ed, many and yet the same; All one for their Nature, all distinct for their Persons, is a Secret o● all Secrets, passing all reach and understanding of Man, rather reverently to be adored then too curiously to be preached into, for that Secret things belong unto the Lord, and things revealed unto us. Saint Augustine walking by the Sea side, Deut. 29. 29. meditating of the trinity, looking aside, saw a child powring the waters of the Sea into a sh●ll, having a hole in the midst thereof, demanded of the Child what he was doing, I am putting( quoth he) all the Sea into this shell, the Father said, thou playest the Child, Can a Shell comprehend thinkest thou all this Sea? And so said the Child good Sir do you, who would by Reason comprehend the trinity. The Child vanished, the Father was instructed, and he saw in the end that it was an angel. Thus Augustine with all his deep Divin●ty, was not able to di●e into this Mystery, much less can wee. Simonides being demanded concerning the Essence of God, answered, that the more he thought of the s●me, the less he knew. To search then too far is curiosity, to Prov. 15 27. believe the word it is security, climb not too high then for falling, dive ●ot deep for drowning; and soare not too high for dazzling: Labour to know so much as ●s revealed in the Scriptures, which we are to search for all points, much more for this. A remarkable Note. THe Name( GOD) is written with four Letters in all Languages, in which we are to observe, that the word GOD, coming from the German is written with a double D.( to wit) god. God is called in Hebrew, {αβγδ} In Chalde and Eloho. In Dalmatian Orsi. jehovah. {αβγδ} In Syrian, Eloho. In or Orsi. greek, {αβγδ}. In Arabian, Alla. In Illirian, Orsi. latin, Deu●. In Ethiopian, Abilah. In Turkish, Abgl. Spanish, Dios. In Egyptian, Thouth. In New-found-Land. Zimi. French, Dieu. In assyrian, Sure. In english, god. In Mag●, Orsi. In The Doctrine and use of Gods Attributes. All Gods Attributes may be reduced to these 3. Heads Power Mercy Justice The use of all which is two fold. 1. First by knowing of them we know what a God our God is, and by them discern betwixt the ●rue jehovah and false gods. 2. We learn both what we have received already from God, and what we may look for hereafter to receive from him. The Lord is called Omnipotent To show his Power: which is both profitable and necessary for us to know both in prosperity and adversity: in Prosperity to Exod 6. 3. keep us from abusing his blessings, seeing he is of power to deprive us: in adversity to keep us from despair, because he is able to help us. A Judge To express his Justice, this should bridle us from committing Psal. 50▪ 6. of sin with greediness, in that though he suffer for a time, yet Exod. 34. 7. in the end he will punish severely, and will render to every man Rom. 2. 6. according to his deeds. To set forth his Love and goodness unto us in his Mercies which are Exod. 34. 6. ●ver all his works, lasting for ever, extended towards us, let us not Psal. 145. 9. then be unmerciful to his, and seeing he is gracious to us, let us not and gr●●●lesse to him, loving to us, let us not be unkind to him, and good ●n mercy to all, let us be bad to none. 2. Father, Let us then behave ourselves as children towards him, not sell our Psal. 103. 13. inheritance▪ let us love hi● house, desire his presence, bewail his absence, love his children ●● bretheren, hate his enemies, seek to honour him, and be sorry ●f he be dishonoured. 2 Let us imitate a good son( who as a learned Divine observeth) is des●rous to know the Nature of his father, that so he may the better resemble his Father. he will know His Pedigree, From whence he is descended. he will know His dignity, How he is reputed. he will know His Estate, At what he is valued. he will know His Nature, How he is affencted. he will know His Love, How himself is favoured. he desires to look into His Will what he will leave him. he desires to look into His pleasure what he will have done by him. he desires to look into His purpose what he will do with him. And If he see him A●le he will Depend upon him. If he see him In authority he will bear himself upon him. If he see him gracious he will Be thankful unto him. If he see him Angry he will seek to please him. If he see him Righteous he will fear to offend him. If he see him merciful he will Pray for pardon to him. If he see him powerful▪ he will Hope for protection from him. The like may be said of the Knowledge of God, seeing he is able to do all things for us, and is the only true God, and in Compassion a Father, willing to do for us, let us ●mbrace him and depend upon him: and in so doing we shall be thankful in prosperity, patient in adversity, and joyful in victory. Of GODS Presence THere are four● de●rees of Gods Presence, 1. An universal. 2. A special. 3. A more special. 4▪ A most special. ●er. 23. 24. universal The Lord is present by his Essence In All places. special The Lord is present by his Glory In Heaven. Psal ●39. 7. More special The Lord is present by his Grace In His Saints. Psal. 19 6. Most special The Lord is present by his Spirit In Christ. Psal. 19 1. The Lord is every where by his Essence repletively, no where inclusively: Every 1 Cor. 3. 16. where replenishing the place with his being, no where by circumscription and local Col. 2 5. definition. he is he is in Christ hypostatical, in himself Alpha and Omega: in the World a governor: in Ang●lls as Be●u●y, in his Church as an householder in his Family: in the soul as a B●●degroome in his Marriage Chamber: in the Righteous as an Helper: in the Reprobate as fear and horror▪ in the Godly to defend them, in the wicked to punish them And therefore may well be compared to the three in the midst of the * Gen. 3. 3. garden of Eden: As also to the three spoken of by Saint John in the Revelations: in Rev. 2. 7. that he is in the midst of God is in the midst of Burning: of the camp of the Israelites fighting, The city▪ jerusalem, and Sion to hear those that call on him, The Cherubims, Dw●l●ing: and in the Congregation of Men judging, A cloud: Setting the rainbow: giving the Law: Filling the Tabernacle and Temple with his glory: Speaking to Moses face to face, as a man spe●kes to his friend: calling Aaron and miriae to answer their Mur●urings: proclaiming Christ to be his well-beloved son: going be●ore the Israelites in the wilderness: and covering the light with darkness. So that he is said to dwell in the Clouds, to ride upon the Clouds, and to make the Clouds his Chariots, Psal. 104. 9. Egypt, Working his wonders and Miracles among them, Deut. 4. 12. The Lord was present speaking The Fire: Speaking to Israell: and in the Land dwelling with them▪ Numb. 35. 34. A whirlwind: Answering job, to the complaint made by him, job 38. 1. The read Sea: To deliver The people of Israell from Drowning, Exod. 14. The Furnace: To deliver The three Children from Burning, Dan. 3. The Lions den: To deliver The Prophet daniel from Devouting. Dan. 6. The Godly: By has holy Spirit▪ always dwelling in them, 1 Cor. 3. 16. Use. Seeing God is omnipresent, see thou sin not in secret, P●al 139. 7. The Lord is said to be present seven several ways speaking, Heb. 4. 13. 1. Face to Face unto Moses as a Man to his friend, Exod. 33. 11. 2. Through the Clouds to the people of Israell often, Exod. 19. ●. 3. In a dream unto samuel: calling samuel, 1 Sam. 3. 4. 4. In a light and mildred air unto Elias with a still voice. 1 King. 1●. 1●. 5. In Urim and Thummim when he gave the Oracles, Exod ●8. 30. 6. To our Forefathers by divers Prophets and Seers, Heb 1. 1, 2. 7. To us in the last dayes by Christ and the Apostles. The Lord is also said to be present seven kind of ways speaking in Prophesies and Visions. 1. In ecstasy or Trance: such was Peters seeing Heaven opened, Acts 10. 10. 2. In a Vision: such was the Revelation to Isaiah shewed, Isa. 6. 1. 3. In a dream: such was Iacobs of a ladder reaching to Heaven, Gen. 28▪ 12. 4. By sensible things, as a Cloud, such he spake in to Moses, Exod. 29. 9. 5. By an external voice, such was Abrahams, Gen 22. 1. 6. By a Parable, such was Baalams: A star shall come, &c. Num. 24. 17. 7. By the filling of the Holy Ghost: such was the Apostles. Acts 2. 2. The Lord spake unto Adam, Before his Fall; Gen, 2 17. G●n; 7. admonishing after punishing him, Abraham, Gen. 12. 1. Willing him to depart his country,● to do as Sarah willed him, Abraham, 〈…〉 b and to offer his son for a burnt offering. 2 Cha. 21. 12. ●Cha. ●●. ●. Balaam, Reproving him: and unto David directing him, Numb. 22. 9 2 Sam. 2. ●. Elias, Comforting him: and to job in a Whi●le-winde, 1 K. 19. 5. job; 8. 1. Isaac, And jacob: showing them the Land they should dwell in, Gen. 26. 2. Chap. 31. 3. Ioshua, Encouraging him: and to John proclaiming his son, josh. 1. 2. Ma●. ●. 17. Kain, Admonishing him: and to Moses showing what to have done, Exod. 2. Noab, Commanding him to make the ark and to enter in, Gen. 6. Samuel, showing what should of Elies posterity become, 1 Sam 3. Solomon, Giving him wisdom above all that were before him. 1 Kings 3. In a Vision God shewed ezechiel, The return of the israelites from captivity, ●zekiel 7. daniel, Nebuchadnezars dreams, and things to come extraordinary, Dan 2. Chap. 7. jacob, That he should not fear to go unto joseph his son, Gen 46. Isaiah, All the things that did concern jerusalem, Isa 1. Chap. 21. Habacuck, The Plagues that he had prepared for wicked men, Habac 2. Nahum, The destruction that should come upon the Sirian, Nah 1. Obadiah, The miserable end that should befall Edom, Obad, 1. Simeon, That he should not see death till Christ did come, Luke 2. 26. Zachariah, Seven golden candlesticks: and spake to his holy One. Zach. 7. Psal 99. 19. The Lord will be known among his Prophets by Visions, and ●●mb. 12. 6. Ps. 99 19. & 23. 11.& 27. 23. will speak unto them by dreams. H●●ed 12. 10. There are four sorts of Being of Christs presence. 1. anagogical. 2. allegorical. 3. corporal. 4. moral. anagogical Christ is present in the Church triumphant. allegorical Christ is present in the Church militant. corporal Christ is present in the womb of a Virgin. moral Christ is present in the Heart of a Christian. As a Father in his Family ordering: as a Pilate in a ship guiding: as a master in his school teaching: as a gardener in his garden dres●ing: as a King in his Throne gracing: as the sun in the Firmament lightning: as a Prophet in the Church teaching: and as the soul in the body enlivening: And is in the midst of The bosom of his Father in the trinity before all time. John 1. 18 The bowels of his Mother the Virgin Mary in fullness of time. Gal. 4. 4. A Cratch At his Birth: so the shepherds found him lain, Luke 27. Christ is in the midst of The Doctors For I●struction: so his Par●nts found him sitting, Luke 2. 46. The Disciples For H●m●li●tion: so he was amongst them serving, Luke 22. 27. The Israelites For his Conversation, So he was among them standing, John 1. 26. The Israelites D●ing miracles, So he was among them working, Acts●. 22. The Israelites Teaching and Healing. So he was among them walking. Luke 13: 22. The twelve Tribes of Israell. Conceived in Nazarel and Zebulon: Mat. 2. 1. born in Bethlem Mat. 2, 13. going into Egypt, passed through Simeon: John 7 14. In the Temple taught in Benjamen: John 2. 8. Turn●d water into wine in Asher in Cana of galilee: Proved himself the Messi●h in joh. 11. 54. Ephraim: In Napthali John. 11. 44. raised Lazarus: And going through the ten Tribes, was in Re●ben, Gad and part of Manasses. Christ spiritually is in the midst of Dying: in the bowels of the Earth, 3. dayes sleeping, Oftentimes after his Resurrection appearing, A cloud Mat 17. 5. Shadowed: between Moses and Elias transfigured, A cloud Acts 1. 9. Taken up into Heaven, where S. John saw him: Sitting on a Cloud: From whence he shall come again in the Clouds to judge the quick Rev. 1. 7. and the dead: at whose coming 1 Thes. 4. 7. all shall be taken up in the Mat. 26. 64. clouds at the last to meet him: where till the day of his appearing he is in the midst of God and Man, Reconciling God to Man: so called a mediator One, 1 Tim. 2. 5. The Building, Coupling God to man: and so is called a Corner-stone, Eph 2. 20. The street, Throne, Beasts and Elders, &c. so seen by S. John. Re. 2. C. 5. C. 7. The Church, As the Apple three among the forest Trees growing, ●ant. 2. 3. The Church, Declaring Gods Name to his Bretheren singing, Heb. 2. 12. Two or three: Gath●ed together in his Name, Psal. 22. 22. The Godly: Alway unto the end of the world guiding them, Mat. 18. 20. All His. Working contraries by his Spirit in every of them. Mat. 28. 20. John 14. 16. In that by whose Spirit Our Infidelity is turned into Faith. Our Thraldom into freedom. Our Poverty is turned into Plenty. Our barrenness into fruitfulness. Our Sorrow is turned into Sol●ce. Our darkness into Light. Our Misery is turned into Mercy. Our weariness into Strength. Our Mourning is turned into M●rth. Our Death into Life. Our Affliction is turned into Glorification. Our Hell into Heaven. As also The Angells are replenished, Prophets inspired, Scr●bes are instructed, the Word ● Cor. 12. is quickened, the Church sanctified, the hardness of Heart suppled, the weakness Rom. 5. 5. of Faith cherished, the darkness of the soul enlightened, and the mist of discomfort Chap. 8. 26. dispersed, So that by his presence darkness is expelled, and by his favour 1 Thes. 1. 10. souls from death and Hell are delivered. Eph. 4. 30. Christs apparition after his Resurrection Christ appeared unto The Apostles, Reproving them for not believing that he was risen, as also teaching Mark. 16. 18. them what they should do and observe after his departure Luk 24. from them. Acts 1. 4. Magdalen, And other women, and would not let them pass by without a Godspeed, Mat. 28. and to comfort them, be not afraid. The Emavits, Talking with them, comforting them and making their hearts to Luk 24. turn with Love of him. Peter, By name that he might not despair by denying, John 21. 1. Thomas, By name that he might not Continue doubting. John 20. 24. Stephen, From Heaven At what time as the Jews stoned him, Acts 7. Paul, From Heaven Going to Damascus to persecute the Christians, Acts 9. From Heaven showing him the mystery of the Revelation. Rev. 1. In a vision unto Paul, willing him to go to Macedonia to preach him, Acts 16. In a vision unto Peter, commanding him to kill and eat that he shewed him, Acts 10. In a vision unto Cornelius, wishing him to sand for Peter to direct him. Idem. Of Gods Word. THe Word of God is the Iam. 3. 17. wisdom of God, concerning the truth which is according unto godliness, being 2 Tim. 3. 16. given by inspiration of God, the joh. 3. 27. original being from Heaven, not from Earth, the Author thereof being 1 Cor. 2. 10. God not man: The Penmen, the Prophets and Apostles: The matter being verity and piety, about which ● 2 Pet. 1 21. 1 Pet. 1. 18. Rom 10. 13.* Heb. 4. 12. Aug. de U●il. credend. cap 6. preaching is exercised, it being the field in which Preachers must contain themselves, because thereby we are begotten again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible seed, the Word having such force in us when it is preached of such as have a lawful calling thereunto. In which said Word there is( as S. Augustine faith) Truth and Doctrine most fit for the refreshing and renewing of mens minds, and truly so tempered that every man may draw from thence, that which is sufficient for him, if he come to draw with a devout and pious mind, as true Religion requireth. Which Word is called▪ Gods Word is called The arm of the Lord, Isa. 53. 1. The armor of God, Eph. 6. 13. The armor of righteousness, 2 Cor. 6. 11. The armor of Light. Rom 13. 12. A Blessing and a Curse, Deut. 11. 26. Bread, Isa. 55. 2. Bread of Sincerity, 1 Cor. 5. 8. Bread of Truth, The book of the Law, josh. 1. 8. The book of the Lord, Isa. 34. 16. The book of Life, 2 King. 22. 8. A Buckler, Psal. 91. 4. A Candle, Mark. 4. 21. A candlestick, Rev. 2 5. Christs yoke, Mat. 11. 29. Comfort, Psal. 119. 50. The Commandement of God, Psal. 119. 98. A Holy Commandement, 2 Pet. 2. 21. A Lardg● Commandement, Psal. 119. 96. A Pure Commandement, Psal. 19. 8. A New Commandement, 1 joh. 2. 28. The Covenant of the Lord, Deut. 29. 9. The Tables of the Covenant, Deut 9. 9. counsel, jer. 23. 22. A counsellor, Psal. 119. 24. A crown, Eccles. 1. 21. A Discerner of the thoughts, Heb 4. 12. The Doctrine of the Apostles, Acts 2. 41. The Doctrine of the Lord, Acts 13. 12. The Doctrine of Christ, 2 jo●. 9. Good Doctrine, Prov 4. 2. Sound Doctrine, 2 Tim. 4. 3. wholesome Doctrine, Idem. Divine inspiration, 1 Tim. 3. 16. The Eyes of the Lord, Prov. 22. 12. eye-pleasing, Rev. 3. 18. Faith, Gal. 1. 23. The door of Faith, Acts 14. 27. A shield of Faith, Eph. 6. 16. faithfulness, Isa. 25. 1. The fear of the Lord, Prov 10. 27. The fountain of wisdom, Eccles. 1. 5. The fountain of Life, Prov. 14. 27. A Garment, Psal. 45. 8. Glory, Prov. 22. 4. A glorious gospel, 1 Tim. 1. 11. The gospel of the Kingdom, Mat. 24. 14. The gospel of Christ, Rom 1. 16. The gospel of The son, Rom. 1. 9. The gospel of Peace, Eph. 1. 16. The gospel of Gods grace, Acts 20. ●4. The gospel of God, Rom. 1. 1. The arrows job 6. 4. The Answer Mich. ●. 7. The Bands Psal. 2. 3. The cords The Breath job ●7. 10. The Charge 1 King. 2. 3. The counsel Acts 20. 27. The deep things 1 Cor. 2. 10. The Faith Rom. 3. 3▪ The Finger Exod 31. 18. The fullness Eph. ●. 19. The Grace 1 Pet. 4. 10. The kingdom Mat. 21. 43. The Mouth I●r. 9. 12. The Oath Deut. 2●. 12. The Oracles Acts 7 38. The Ordinances Deut. 4. 2. The Protestation of God▪ Neh 9. 34. The P●thes Mica. 6. 9. The Power Rom. 1. 6. The ●recepts Psal. 119. 93. The Purpose jer 49. 20. The Rod Psal. 23. 4. The staff The Steps job 23. 11. The Secrets Psal. 25. 14. The Statutes Psal. 19. 8. The Testimonies Psal. 119. 99. The Testament Heb. 8. 9. The Truth Psal. 119. 160. The verity Rom. 3. 7. The Voice Psal ●7. 2. The Vision Numb. 24. 4. The Will 1 Cor. 2. 7. The witness 1 joh. 5. 9. The Writings Exod 32. 16. The works The wisdom Prov. 8. 14. The Breath of Gods Lips, Isa. 11. 1. The Word of Gods Lips, Psal. 17. 4. The Secrets of Gods Kingdom, Mat. 13. 11. The Sound of Gods Voice, job. 37. 2. The Wonders of Gods Law, Psal. 119 18. The Breath of Gods Psal. 33. 6. The Judgements of Gods Psal. 119. 13. The Spirit of Gods Mouth Isa. 11 4. The Sword of Gods Mouth ●ev. 2. 16. Testimonies of Gods Mouth Psal. 119. 88. Gods Charge. Deut. 11. 1. Gods counsels of old, ●sa. 25. 1. Gods Comfort, Psal. 94 19. Gods Doctrine, G●l. 1. ●0. Gods Face, Psal 27 8. Gods Gate, Psal 118. 10 Gods Glory, Isa. 66. 19. Gods Judgements, 1 King. 2. 3. Gods Message, H●g●. 13. Gods Speech, Deut 32 2. Gods Secrets, Amos 5 3. Gods Statutes, 1 King. 2. 3. Gods Testimonies, Gods Voice, josh. ●4. 24. Gods W●y, Psal. 27. 11. Gods Word, jer 1. 2. Gods Yo●ke and band, jer. 5. 5. Good and evil, Deut. 30. 15. A good thing, Rom. 10. 15. The Good part, Luke 10 42. A princip●ll thing, Prov. 4. 7. A H●mmer, jer. 23 29. Health, Prov. 3. 8. S●ving Health, Psal. 67. 2. A Healing Medicine, jer. 30. 15. 〈…〉 nces, Psal 78. 2. 〈◇〉 Knowledge, Eccles. 1. 16. 〈…〉 g, Mat. ●. 6. 〈…〉 s, Prov. 4. 13. and Fathers i●structions, Prov. 1. 8. ●●e 〈◇〉 of the Heart, jer. 15. 16. T●● Ju●gements of the Lord, Psal. 119. 98. Justice and equity, Prov. 1. 3. The Key of Heaven, Mat 16. 19. The Key of Gods kingdom, The Key of Knowledge, Luk. 11. 52. Knowledge, jer. 3. 15. The Knowledge of the Truth, H●b 10 26. The Knowledge of God, Prov. 2. 3. The Knowledge of Gods ways, job. 21. 14. A Lamp●, Prov 6. 23. A lantern, Prov 6. 25. The Law of God, Gen 26 5. The Law of The Lord, Prov. ●0 27. The Law of Liberty, Iam 1 25. The Law of Life, Ecclus 45. 5. The Law of F●ith, Rom 3. 27. The Law of Truth, Mal. 2. 6. The Law of Mose●, John 8. 2. The Law of The Spirit of life Rom 8. 2. A perfect Law, Psal. 1●. 7. A royal Law, Iam. ●. 8. The Language of Canaan, Isa. 19. 18. A pure Language, Zeph. 3. 9. The killing Letter, 2 Cor 3. 6. Life and death, Prov 4. 22. The life of God, Eph 4. 18. The life of Lives, Deut 32. 47. The life of Man, Prov. 20. 27. The paths of life, Psal. 16. 11. The fountain of life, Prov. 14. ●7. The three of life, Rev 2 7. The Water of life, John 6. 35. The light of our paths, Psal 119. 105. The light of the Lord, Prov. 20. 27. The light of Gods countenance Psal ●7. 1. The light of Men, joh. 1. 4. The light of the living, job 33. 3. The armor of Light, Rom. 13 12. A marvellous Light, 1 Pet. 2. 9. A True Light, 1 joh. 2. 8. Marrow, Prov. 3. 8. Meate, joh. 6. 27. A Portion, Luke 12. 42. Strong Meate, Heb. 5. 1●. spiritual Meate▪ 1 Cor. 10. 3. milk, 1 Cor. 3. 2. The Ministration of condemnation, 2 Cor. 3. 9. The Ministration of righteousness, The Mothers teaching, Prov. 1. 8. The mystery of the kingdom of Heaven, Mat. 13. 11. The mystery of godliness, 1 Tim. 3. 16. The mystery of God, Christ, the Father, Col. 2. 2. The mystery of the Faith, 1 Tim 3. 9. A Message, 1 jo●. 5. ●. A N●t, Hos. 7. 12. ointment, Isa 1. 6. An ornament of Grace, Prov 1. 9. paths to walk in, Psa. 27. 11. The old paths, jer. 6. 16. Right paths, Psal. 27. 11. Pastures, joh. 10. 9. Good pasture, Ezech. 34▪ 18. green Pasture, Psal. 23. 2. A pearl, Mat. 7. 6. Peace, Rom. 14. 17. A pleasant garden, Ecclesia. 40. 27. The Prophets Report, Isa 53. 1. Profound deepness, Eccles▪ 7. 26. Riches, Prov. 22. 4. unsearchable Riches, Eph 3. 8. Rest, Mat▪ 11. 24. Refreshing rest, Isa. ●8 12. Strength, Psal ●05 5. Salvation, Acts 28. 28. The Helmet of Salvation, Eph. 6. 17. The Shield of Salvation, 2 Sam. 26. 36. The Wells of Salvation, ●sa. 12. 3. A Sanctuary, Psal 7●. 17. Scripture, Acts 1. 16. Scriptures of Truth, Dan●0. 11. Scriptures of the Prophets, Rom. 16. 26. Holy Scriptures, Rom. 1. 2. The Secrets of the kingdom, Mat. 13 11. seed, Luk 8 11. immortal seed, 1 Pet. 1. 23. The Savour of Life, 2 Cor. 2. 16. The Savour of Death, The Searcher of the Bow●lls, Prov. 20▪ 27. A Shield▪ Psal. 91 4. The Spirit, 2 Cor. ●. 6. spiritual gifts, Rom. 1. 11. spiritual drink 1 Cor 10. 3, 4, &c. spiritual Meate Statutes of Life, Eze. 33. 4. Statutes of the Lord, Psal 19. 8. Statutes of Israel, Psal. 81. 4. Right Statutes, Psal 19. 8. The strength of all things, Wisd. 10. 12. Assured strength, Prov. 14. 26. A Song,* Deut. 31. 19. A new Song,* Psal. 40. 3. The Supper of the L●mb, A Great Supper, Luke 14 16. A Sword against satan, Heb 4. 12. The Sword of the Spirit, Eph 6. 17. A two edged Sword, Heb. 4. 12. A Talent, Mat. 25. 15. The treasure of Knowledge and wisdom, Col. 2. 3. Thunder, job 37. 5. A Trumpet, jer. 6. 17. tidings of Salvation, Luke 2 10. Glad tidings of Peace, Isa. 52. 7. Good tidings of Peace, Rom. 10. 15. Good and glad tidings, Isa. 40. 9. Understanding, job. 15. 16. The way of God, Psal. ●7. 11. The way of Gods testimonies, Psal. 119. 14. The way of Holinesse, Isa. 35. 8. The way of Judgement, Prov. 6. 8. The way of Life, Prov. 6. 23. The way of righteousness, Isa 58. 1. The way of Peace, Luke 1. 79. The way of wisdom, Prov. 4. 11. A Good Way, 1 Sam. 12. 23. A Narrow Way, Mat. 7. 13. A Perfect Way, Psal. 101. 2. A strait Way, Acts 13. 10. An Uncorrupt Way, Psal. 18. 30. wisdom, Prov. 1. ●. Sound wisdom, Prov. 8. 14. Weapons of a Christian, 2 Cor. 10. 4. White raiment, Rev. 3. 18. The Word of the Covenant, jer 11. 3. The Word of Exhortation, Acts 13. 15. The Word of Christ, Col. 3. 19. The Word of good Doctrine, 1 Tim 4. 6. The Word of Grace, Acts 20. 32. The Word of Gods Mouth, Psal ●8. 1. The Word of Faith, Rom. 10. 8. The Word of Knowledge. Prov. 1. 2. The Word of Life, Phil. 2 16. The Word of this L●fe, Acts 5. 20. The Word of the Law, Deut 31. 24. The Word of the Holy One; job 6. 10. The Word of Me●k●n●sse, Psal. 45. 4. The Word of prophesy, Rev. 1 3. The Word of the Prophets, Acts 3. 27. The Word of Reconciliation, 2 Cor. 5. 9. The Word of the gospel, Acts 15. 7. The Word of S●bern●sse, Acts 26. 25. The Word of Truth, The Word of God, jer. 1. 2. An engrossed Word, james 1. 21. Gods Word, Eze 16. 1. A comfortable Word, Zach. 1. 13. A faithful Word, Rev 22. 6. A lively Word, Heb▪ 4 12. A mighty Word, Heb. 1▪ 3. A pleasant Word, eccles. 12. 10. A plain Word, Prov. 8. 9. A precious Word, 1 Sam. 3. 1. A powerful Word, Heb 4 12. A pure Word, Psal. 12 6. A right Word, Psal ●3. 4. A strait Word, Prov. 8. 9. A sure Word, 2 Pet. 1. 19. A true Word, Rev. 2● 6. A wholesome Word, Tit. 2. 8. chains for the neck, Prov 1. 9. A crown of Glory, Prov. 4 9. The due, Deut. 32. ●. A deep great, Psal. ●6. 6. A Draw-Net, Mat 13. 47. Fire burning, jer. 20 9. figs, Mat. 7▪ ●6. Frontlets, Deut. ●. 8. Grapes, Mat. 7. 16. A glass, Iam 1. 23. Gold tried in the fire, Psal. 19. 10. Garments smelling of Mi●rh, Psal. 45. 8. aloes and Cassia▪ hyssop, Psal. 51 7. Honey and hony comb, Psal. 19. 10. An Heritage, Psal. 119. 111. leaven hide in meal, Mat. ●3. 33. The light of the World, Rom. 13. 12. Light shining in darkness, 2 Pet 1. 19. merchandises of silver, Prov. 3. 14. Mighty Mountaines▪ Psal. 36 6. New Cloath, Mat. 9. 16. New Wine, oil and ointment, Exod 30. 15. The pool Bethesda, joh 5. 2. A Plough, Luk. ●. 62. rain and showers, Deut. 32 2 Silver tried in the fire Psal. ●2. 16. A Sickle, Rev. 14. 15. A Shield and Buckler, Psal 91. 4. A star, Mat. 2. 2. Treasures hidden, Luke 16. 11. Waters still and deep, Eze. 34 18. Waters: and Wine, Isa 55. 1. The four winds of the Earth, Rev 7. 1. A Pavourie of wholesome food against f●igned Traditions, A Physitians shop against poisoned Heresies, Basil in Psalmum primum. A Pandet of profitable laws against rebellious spirits, A treasury of most costly jewels against beggarly Rudiments. And is wisdom without Folly to Direct ●s▪ For that i● will Riches without ●●verty to Honour ●s▪ For that i● will Strength without We●kenesse to maintain ●s▪ For that i● will Instruct us in Life: comfort us in Death: and glorify us in Heaven. By Gods Word 2 Sam. 17 7. Hushai was made a wise counselor: 1 King. 3. 12. Salomon a wise King: Josh. 17. joshuah a wise captain: and 2 Tim. 3. 15. Timothy a wise Divine: judge. 7. 5, 6. Gideon overcame the Midianites, 2 Sam 5. 19. David the Philistines, 2 Chr●●0. 2●▪ 2 Chron. 14. jehoshaphat the Amonites, Numb. ●1. 3. The Israelites the Canaanites;* And all Godly men, ●he Flesh, the devil and the worlds vanities: Prov. 8. 16. Kings reign, Princes decree Justice: All things are governed: Psal. 33 6. The Foundations of the Earth were ●aid; The Heavens established, Pr. 8. 21. Ro. 1. 17 Treasures and Substances are inherited: Man is blessed, his Faith is increased: Psal. 19. 7. His soul is converted, Psal. 19. 8. Psal. 19. 7 Rom. 1. 17. His heart cheered, and changed: H●s corruptions mortified: His understanding enlightened▪ His thoughts purged▪ His affections sanctified: His memory with good Lessons stored: His will to Gods will confirmed. His speech with Grace is seasoned: Deut. 32. 47. His dayes are prolonged: Prov. 9. 11. His yeares augmented, Prov. ●. 24. His sleep is secured: His eyes lightened, His walkings guided: And all his actions to Gods glory wholly dir●cted: Psal. 119. 13●. 2 T●●. 3. 15. ● Eph. 5. 26. I●●▪ 3. 36. joh. 17. 17. Ps. 119. 1●●.& 19. 7. 8. 1 Tim. 4. 5. Iam. 1. 21. Acts. 20. 32. The ignorant men are instructed: Disordered men reformed: The afflicted in heaviness comforted: The Dull in Memory quickened: The could in zeal enflamed: and the distressed in want relieved: The righteousness of God is revealed:* The Church is sanctified: Truth is preached: Error convinced, 'vice corrected, good life Directed: Death avoided and life eternal through Christ obtained. In keeping then of Gods Word there is great reward. Psal. 10. 11. Blessed is he that heareth me, watching at my gates, and that giveth attendance at the posts of my doors, for he that seeketh me early shall find me. Prov. 8. 34. He that feareth me shall be rewarded: He that despiseth me shall be destroyed. Prov 8. 17. Let the Word of God then dwell in you plentifully. Pro. 13. 13. read: Deut. 6. 6▪ &c. Prov. 8. 17, &c. Psal 139▪ 6. Act. 20. 32. Eccles. 1. Chap. 7. Chap. 24. Col. 3. ●6. Of Gods Decree and Predestination. Of Election and Reprobation. AS it maketh neither for the Ornament, nor the use of an House to have all v●ssels of one sort, as 2 Tim. 2. 20. all of gold, or all of silver, but rather of divers and of sundry matter. And as in a mans body the manifold members thereof, are of greater both use and dignity, then i● all were one member: So in the body of the Church, God would not have all elect, or all reprobate, but some Elect, some Reprobates, some good, others bad, because this would make most for Gods glory, as the other for the good of the whole body. Gods Decree is that by which God hath necessary, and yet freely from Isa. 46 10. all eternity determined all things. Howbeit the Decree of God is the first and principal cause of all things, yet it doth not take away freedom of will in Election, or the Nature and proper●ie of Eph. 1. 12. Mat. 10. 29. Rom 9. 21. Isa 46. 10. second causes, but brings them into a certain order( th●t ●s) it directeth them to the determinate end, whereupon the effect of things are contingent and necessary, as the nature of the second cause is. Predestination is the Decree of God, in as much as it concerns Man,( being so called) by which God hath ordained all men to a certain and everlasting estate( that is) some ● Thes. 5 9. to salvation in his son, others to Rom 9. 22. Condemnation, for his own glory and their sin. Election is a Decree in which God according to the good pleasure of his will hath certainly Eph. 1. 4, 5. chosen some men to life eternal in Christ, and that for the praise of the glory of his Grace. Reprobation is Gods Decree, in the which because it so pleased him, he hath Prov. 16. 4. 2 Cor. 13. 5. purposed to refuse some men by means of Adams fall and their own corruptions for the manifestation of his Justice. Hath God made man to condemn him? Ob. Nothing less: God is not the cause of condemnation, but man himself, according Hose 13 9. An. to the Prophet Hosea saying: O Israel thy destruction is of thyself: God useth all Isa. 5. 4. Meaning his Vineyard. means to save souls according to Isaiah saying: What more could have been done for it, then I have done? God Eze 18. 23. Isa. 50. 1. Cha. 59. 2. Psal. 104. 35. Ps. 51. 4. Ps. 62. 4. Prov. 29. 6. Psal. 59. 12. will no● the death of a Sinner? Ob. God willeth not simply and absolutely the Death of a Sinner, as it is the destruction An. of▪ his Creature, but as it is a means to declare his Justice, and to set forth his glory: Now these which are ordained to just Damnation, are likewise ordained to be left to themselves in this world, in 2 Thes. 2. 11▪ blindness of mind, and hardness of heart, so as they shall not, nor will repent of their sins; So that their sins shall be thereby the cause of their condemnation, and God not the Author of the same. sins are not the cause of rejection, yet they are the cause of Damnation, whereunto the Reprobate are ordained and destined. If God predestinate every man to his end, how then can it be said that Adam fell Ob. into sin, without Gods ordination and predestination, seeing he gave him occasion to sin whilst he made a Law, which he knew he would not keep: Created the Serpent and devil, whom he knew would tempt Eve, gave him Eve to wife, that would entice him, as also permitted him to abuse his own Free-will, that was given him. In the state of Mans innocency in Paradise, Good and bad was propounded to mans An. will, and his will stood inclinable to that which the mind( or sences) first assented unto( for the mind conceiveth before the will subscribes freely) and the mind( or sences) then were enabled to judge and determine rightly, so that there was in man, help unto good, not infirmity unto evil: Adam therefore sinned freely, and unconstrainedly. 1. In neglecting their Law and Calling. 2. In opening ear freely unto lewd counsel. 3. In eating the forbidden fruit. Now there were three things concurring to the fall of Adam. 1. Gods permitting. 2. Sathans tempting. 3. Mans yielding. First, God permitting not by Iam. 1. 13. 1 joh. 2. 16. instiling into him any evil, or taking from him any ability unto good, but by suffering satan to tempt him. Secondly, By leaving man to the liberty and mutability of his own Will, not hindering his fall by supply of Grace, and by 2 Sam. 24. 1 1 Ch●o. 21. 1. Sathans tempting, who being himself fallen, envying Gods glory and mans happiness, subtly addressed himself into the Serpent. Thirdly, Mans yielding, who being left to the mutability of their own Will, Eccles. 7. 29. voluntar●ly Gen. 3. 1. inclined unto that evil whereunto they were tempted. Howbeit we deny not, but that the will of God is the first and true cause why Adam fell, as also why he hath chosen some, and hated others,( for if God would simply not have had him sinned, he had not sinned, for that nothing can be done against his Will and counsel) But we deny that it therefore followeth, that God can be accused of sin or of any injustice, because his Will is Just, and the rule of all Justice, so that none iniquity can be found in him. Besides which there are many more just Reasons of the Judgements of God, in God himself, although they be unknown and unsearchable unto us wretches, that cannot of ourselves neither see such Reasons, because we are blinded, nor know them by the Scriptures, because they are not revealed. Isa. 40. 28. There is no searching of Gods wisdom, it cannot be comprehended: if the Creature could swallow up all the Reason of the Creator, God should be finite, and God no God. judge. 13. 18. An angel bid Manoah not to inquire after his Name which was secret. Deut▪ 29. 29. Secret things belong unto God, revealed to man: Search not then for those things that are hidden, and Dive not too deep for fear of Drowning. If God Decree every thing, why punisheth he any thing? Punishment cometh from God by the just desert of the ranchor Lam. 3. 39. of mans sin, Rom. 11. 5. Election of Gods free grace. Rom 9 19. Who hath resisted the Will of God? Why is he angry? What art thou oh Man, which pleadest with God job 33. 13. who giveth not account of his matters, Darest thou to expostulate with God thy author? Isa. 45. 9. Woe be to him, that contendeth with his Maker: S. Augustine handling this matter saith, Oh thou man that lookest for an Answer from me, let us both hear him which saith, Rom. 9. 20. oh man who art thou which reasonest with God? faithful ignorance is better then rash knowledge: seek for merits, thou shalt find nothing but punishment: O Altitude, Peter denieth, the thief believeth O Altitude▪ askest thou the reason, I will admire, and be astonished at the Altitude, reason thou, I will marvel, dispute thou, I will believe: I see the Altitude, but I come not to the bottom; Paul restend because he found admiration: He calleth them Rom. 11 33. Gods inscrutable Judgements, and comest thou to search them? He calleth them ways investigable, and seekest thou to find them? And in another place, cvi hac responsio non places& quaera● doctiores, said caveat ne invenia● praesumptuores. speaking of the same matter( saith) if any man will bind us, and press Rom. 11. 33. us to search, and sound the profundity, why one is persuaded, another is not, I have only two things to answer: Rom. 1●. 33. Oh the depth of his Riches, &c. Cha. 9. 14. And is there iniquity with God? He that liketh not this Answer, let him seek more learned Teachers, but let him look that he find not them that are more presumptuous. If I be predestinated to eternal life I shall be saved how wickedly soever I live, I will therefore live as I list? Men predestinated to the end, that is Glory and eternal life, are also a Th●s. 2. 13. Rom. 8. 30. Eph. 1 4. predestinated to the subordinate means whereby they come to eternal life, and they are Christ and his merits, as he was a mediator, an effectual Calling, Faith, Regeneration, Sanctification, Repentance, &c. with a godly Heb. 11. 6. joh. 3. 6. life. Quest. Seeing some are ordained to condemnation may we judge who they are? Wee cannot judge, because it is a secret reserved unto God, Mat. 7. 1. Iam. 4. 12. judge not saith Christ) 2. God is merciful in forgiving, as he is miraculous in calling, making a Acts 9 1. Persecutor a Preacher, Saul a Paul. 3. Because the Godly have been overgon in this matter: so was 1 K. 19. 10. Elias saying, that he was onely left in all Israel that bowed not his knee to Baal, 1 Sam. 1. 13. So was Eli in judging Hanna. We must joh. 7. 24. not judge according to the appearance, saith Christ, 1 Cor. 4. 5. judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, saith S. Paul. To conclude this point. God from everlasting by his Decree appointed first to create all men, then to permit them to fall into sin, and for sin to be guilty of Death: And after by Christ to deliver some, but to leave others, and to punish them for their sins, and this appoy●tment is very ●redestination, Election and Reprobation. Ob the Depth of the riches both Rom. 11. 33. of the wisdom and knowledge of G●d, &c. Who is wise and he shall understand these things, prudent and he shall know them: Hos 14. 9. For the ways of the Lord are right, and the just shall walk in them, but the transgressors shall fall therein. God decreed that Abraham, seed should serve four hundred yeares a strange people, Gen. 15. 13. Act. 7. 6 1 Sam. 17. 14. Achitophel, Should be destroyed by his own counsel, Esau, Should serve jacob before he had done good or evil, Mal. 1. 2. Rom. 9 1. Isa. 2. 6. Gal. 3. 8. Acts 13. 48. The Gentiles, Should be called to the knowledge of Christ, and that such should bele●●e as were ordained to Salvation, Should do that onely to Christ, which he in his counsel had determined Acts 4. 27. mined afore to be done, Christ, Should be by his own Apostle Iudas betrayed, Ps. ●1. 9. Jo. 13. 11. Dan. 9. 24. 〈◇〉. 8. 25 jer. 1. 5. jerusalem, Should be made desolate, and again blessed, jeremiah, Should be a Prophet, and that before he was formed, Paul, Should be separated from his mothers womb, that is, elected and called Gal. 1. 15. to preach Christ, as also should suffer many afflictions for him, 1 Thos. 3 3. Should be as chaff that passeth in a day, and that by Gods wrath Zeph. 2. 2. coming suddenly on them, The Thessalo: Should be elected and chosen unto salvation, 1 Thes. 1. 4. 2 Thes. 2. 13. Pr. 16. 4. Hab. 1. 12. Rom. 9. 12. I●d 1. 4. He, ● 11. Ex. 32. 32. Re●. 78.& 20. 15. Should be made for the day of evil, prepared to destruction, and ordained to condemnation: As also that all they that have not their names written in the book of Life, from the foundation of the world should be cast into Hell. The Godly& Elect, Should be chosen in Christ according to the fore-knowledge of God 1 Pet. 1. 2. Eph. 1. 4, 11. Tit. 1. 1. 2. the Father, and that before the foundation of the world; and should be called not according to their works, but according to God● purpose, having their names written in the book of Li●e, which book 2 Tim. 1. 9. Phil. 4. 3. Rev. 20. 15. of Life is the eternal Decree of God, in which he hath elected in Christ, according to the good pleasure of his Will, those that shall be Heires of life. Mans calling& Salvation, Should be not according to our works, but according to Gods own 2 Tim. 1. 9. purpose and Grace which was given us in Christ before all time, The time of Man, Should be appointed: his Months determined, dayes numbered, and his Heb. 9 27. very last hour limited, as our Saviour Christ himself confessed. job 14. 5. The moon, Should be for certain Seasons: and suins going down, joh. 13 1. The Lightning, rain and Thunder before the world began, Psal. 104. 14. The Seas, Should not pass beyond their bounds limited, job 28. 26. The Revelation, Of the mystery of the calling of the Gentiles should be kept close from I●●. 5. 22. job 26. 10. Ma● 13. 33. Rom. 16. 25. Collos 1 26 the beginning of the World till the time the gospel was preached, His counsel, Should stand declaring the last things from the beginning and from of old, the things that were not done, saying, My counsel shall stand, Isa. 46. 10, 11. I will do whatsoever I will; as I have spoken so will I bring to pass, Isa. 14. 27. I have purposed I will do it, who is able to disannul it? G●d Foundation, counsels, Purpose, remaineth sure and hath this seal, He knoweth his are of old and 2 Tim. 2. 19. Isa. ●6. 10. ●eb. 6. 17. Psal. 33. 11. shall stand for ever, being faithfulness, is eternal, wrought in Christ before all things. Eph 3. 11. God Predestinated Those which he knew before to be made like to the Image Rom. 8. 29. of his son Christ, and hath appointed a day in the Acts 17. 31. which he will judge the World by Christ. God Knoweth all his works And that from the beginning: He appointeth the state Acts 15▪ ●8. and condition of man before his Creation; He can do Acts 17 26. with man as the Potter with the day, make one to honour jer. 18. 6. and another to dishonour: He will show mercy Rom. 9. 15. to whom he will show mercy, and compassion to whom exod. 33. 19. he will have compassion, and whom he will he hardeneth, Rom. 9. 15, 18. so that it is not in him that willeth, nor in him that runneth, but of God that sheweth mercy. God Promised Hope of eternal life for the godly from the beginning, Tit. 1. 2. God Prepared The kingdom of Heaven for the godly from the beginning, Math. 25. 31. 34. God Prepared Everlasting fire, for the devil and his from the beginning, Christ Was Decreed To be the son of God before all Worlds, ordained of Ps. 2. 7. Act. ●3. 23 God to be a Judge both of quick and dead, before the He. 1. 5. Act▪ 10. 4● foundation of the world, but was in the last dayes declared: 1 Pet. 1. 20. He was appointed for the fall, and rising again 1 Pet. 2▪ 8. of many in Israel, and delivered by the determinate counsel Luk. 2. 34. of God to be crucified. Acts. 2. 2●. Christ Knew From the beginning, whom he had chosen, who they were John 13. 8. that believed not, who should b●tray him: and therefore John 6. 64. saith, without me ye can do nothing, ye have not John 15. ●, 16. chosen me, but I have chosen and ordained you. There is no variableness, nor shadow by changing in God, saith Saint Jam 1. 17. E●. 3. 14 james I change not, saith the Lord. Isra●l hath not obtained that he Mal. 3. 6. Isa. 14. 24 sought, but the Election hath obtained it, and the rest have been hardened: Rom. 11. 5, 7. So that there is a Remnant at this day through the Election of Grace, not of works saith S. Paul: whatsoever God doth it continueth for ever, nothing can be put unto it, nor taken from it, saith the Preacher: The Lord God eccles. 3. 14. knew all things or ever they were made, and after they be brought to pass Ecclesia. 23. 20. he looketh on them. Use. The Doctrine of Predestination is especially two fold. 1. It teacheth us that there is a certain and firm persuasion of our Election to eternal salvation in Christ. 2. Seeing our salvation is wholly in Christ, that should teach us to put off all confidence of our own worths and merits, so as that we should ascribe our whole salvation to the only grace of God in Christ, and so he that glorieth should glory in the Lord, to whom be all blessedness ascribed, in that he hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly things in Christ, having chosen us in himself before the foundations of the world were laid: read: Isa. 10. 23. Chap. 14. 27. Chap. 23. 8, 9. Chap 41. 9 Dan. 9. Chap. 10. job. 23. 14. Zech. 1. 6. Prov. 19. 21. 1 Cor. 1. 26. 2 Tim. 1. 9. joh. 17. 10. Give diligence to make your election sure, 2 Pet 1. 10. Election Adam Had Kain, Eldest Gen. 4. Adam Had Abel, Eldest Adam Had Seth, Eldest Noab Had Iapheth, The Youngest Wicked. Noab Had Shem, The Youngest Wicked. Gen. 9. Noab Had Cham, The Youngest Wicked. Tera● Had Haran, Midlest Wicked. Tera● Had Nahor, Midlest Wicked. Gen. 11. Tera● Had Abram, Midlest Wicked. To show that neither in Eldest, Youngest or Middlemost, but in Gods free Election standeth eternal happiness. Election of Younger before the Elder. Abel The Younger chos●. Kain The Elder refused. Gen. 4. Judah The Younger chos●. R●ub●● The Elder refused. Gen. 49. 8. Abraham The Younger chos●. Nach●r The Elder refused. Gen. 12. Joseph The Younger chos●. The patriarches The Elder refused. Gen. 4●. Boaz The Younger chos●. His Kinsman The Elder refused. Ruth 4. Ithamar The Younger chos●. Abih●● The Elder refused. Numb. 3. 4. David The Younger chos●. Eliab The Elder refused. 1 Sam. 16. Jeh●az The Younger chos●. J●h●iakim The Elder refused. 2 King 23. Ep●raim The Younger chos●. M●nasses The Elder refused. Gen: 48. Moses The Younger chos●. A●r●● The Elder refused. Exod. 7. 7. El●●z●r The Younger chos●. Nadab The Elder refused. Numb. 3. Ruth The Younger chos●. O●p●h The Elder refused. Ruth. 1. 14. Isaa● The Younger chos●. ishmael The Elder refused. Gen. 21. Shem The Younger chos●. Cham The Elder refused. Gen. 9. ●7. Jaacob The Younger chos●. Esau The Elder refused. Gen. 25. S●lomon The Younger chos●. Ad●niah The Elder refused. 1 King. 1. Notwithstanding that for outward blessings the Lord commanded read 1 Sam 9. 21. 1 King. 20. 14. Deut. 21. 15, 17. that the Eldest should have a double portion of all that the Father had before the younger: but Christs saying is here verified: The Mat. 19. 30. Saul Young. first shall bee last and the last first. For that the Lord seeth not 1 Sam. 16. 7. as man seeth, for man looketh on the outward appearance, God on 2 Cor. 10. 7. the heart. Election free in God. David Was chosen to be King of Israel: King Saul rejected, 1 Sam. 15. C. 16. 12. ●lias Was saved: Balaam damned, both prophesied, 2 King. ●. 2 P●t. 2. The Gentiles Called: The Jews rejected: for both Christ dyed, Rom. 9. G●dcon The meanest of his Fathers house was advanced, jung. 6. 15. The Israelites First born w●re preserved: the egyptians destroyed, Exod 12. In thered Sea were d●livered: pharaoh drowned, I●hoshaphat Was saved: Ahab slain, both fighting at ●amoth Gilead, 1 King ●2. joseph Of Arimathea a rich man saved: Dives rich damned, Luk. 1●. mathias Before Ios●ph called justus was elected, Act. 1. 2 The Trib● 〈◇〉 〈◇〉 Psal. 78. 67. Mord●cai Was advanced: Hamon by Ahashuerash hanged, Es●h. 7. Ho●. 1. 7. The Men Of judah: not of Israel, in captivity were delivered, Ez. 1. 7. 1 King 7. Noah With his were preserved in the ark: all else per●shed, Gen. 7. Pharoa●s Butler in prison was restored: his Bak●● hanged, Gen: 40. Peter An Apostle saved: Iudas an Apostle damned, Acts 1. 19. One T●iese Was by Christ at last ●aved, the other damned, Mat. 27. One Man In the field and bed shall be received, another refused, Luk. 17. One Woman Grinding shall be accepted, another rejected, Judge not why God draweth this man and not that man if Psal. 33. 12. thou wilt not e●re( saith S. Augustine) Onely Abel& Seth Were counted blessed of all Adams sons, Gen 5. 3. Abraham Was chosen to be the Father of all faithfulness, Gen. 12. 2. Isa 51▪ 2 Aarons rod budded, of all the twelve put into the Tabernacle, Ro. 4 ●. Num 17. 8 The Apostles Were chosen at the first to est●blish the Gospe●l, Mat. 10. 5. Mar. 1●. Abijah Of all Ieroboams posterity came to be butted, 1 King, 14. 13.( 15. Abiathar Was saved alive of eighty sieve persons that wore the linen Ephod 1 Sam 22. 20. Abikam With certain Elders spake that jeremiah might be delivered, jer. ●6. 16▪ 24. Da●iel Is mentioned to be delivered out of the lions Den, Dan: 6. 23& 2. 19. David Was chosen to sight with goliath the Philistine, ● Sa●. 17. 37. Isa 63. 3. Elias Was for the Lord against four hundred and fifty false Prophets, 1 King. 18. 22. Elisha Of a Plough man was made one of the Lords Prophets, 1 king. 10. 1●. Ebedmelech Spake to have jeremiah brought out of the Dungeon, Jer. ●8 7& 33. 1● Elihu Of Iobs comforters spake that was right unto him, ●●b 42 7. Five Virgins Of Ten entred before the doors were shut with the Bridegroom Mat. ●5 10. F●w Men Followed King Saul whose heart God had touched, 1 Sam. 10 46. F●w Men Remained in Sardis which had not their ga●ments defiled, Rev. 3. 4. F●w Men believed in Christ, Pharisees and Rulers not mentioned, jo. ● 48.& 3. 32. Isa. 10. F●w Men W●re present ●t Christs Ascention, when many dyed, Acts 1. 11.( 19. F●w Men Wise and Noble after the flesh are called, 1 Cor. 1. ●6. F●w Men Accompanied S. Paul, or his Doctrine believed, Act. 17. 4. Gamaliel G●ve couns●ll to set at liberty the Apostles, Act. 5 34. The Gib●o●it●s Being a remnant of the Amorites had peace with the Israelites, 2 Sam. 21. 2. I●sh. 9 3. The Israelites W●●e chosen to be to God a holy people and Nation, Exod. 10. 6. Isaac I● mentioned to be godly of all Abrahams children, Gen. 25. 5. Iotham Was preserved: Seventy being slain of his bretheren, judge. 9. 5. S. John Of all the Apostles had the savour to lean on Christs bosom, John 13. 23. Ioshuab And Caleb of six hundred thousand entred Canaan, Numb. 14. 24. joash Escaped Death, all the seed royal being slain, 2 King. 11. 2. jonah Was saved by a Fish in the Sea receiving him, jonah 2. 2. joseph Of all the Counsellors consented not to the death of Christ, Luk 23. 51 joseph And Nicod●mus begged and butted the body of Christ, joh. 19. 38, 39. Lot His Wife and Daughters were delivered in Sodom, Gen. 19. 16 Luke The physician remained with Paul, Dema● forsook him, 2 Tim. 4. 10, 11 A Little flock is the flock of Christ, as Christ consessed, Luk. 12 32. * Magdalen Was of all them at the Table by Christ commended, Mark. 14 9. Moses And Aaron were sent to pharaoh, the Israelites delivered, Exod 4. 14. Mephthosheth Of all King Sauls posterity was by David preserved, 2 Sam. 9. 5. Michaiah Of four hundred Prophtes, truly prophesied, 1 King. 22. 6. Magdalen Was the first to whom Christ rising from death appeared, Mar 1● 9. job In the Land of Huz to be a just man is mentioned, job 1 1. ● Sam. 18. 1. jonathan Of all Sauls Courtiers shewed kindness to David, 1 Sam. 18. 1. Gen. 7. 22.& ●. 8. Noah And his were saved in the ark all else perished, 1 P●t 3●●. Naa●an Of all the lepers in Israel he was cleansed, Luk. 4 27. N●cod●m●s Of all the Rulers spake for Christ, all else maligned him, joh. 7. 50. * Ones●●horu● Refreshed Paul: all they in Asia turned from him, 2 Tim 1. 15, 16 One Dis●p●e W●s 〈◇〉 to follow Christ at his apprehension, Mat 26, 56. One City Had rain, yea, one piece was ●ayned upon, Amos. 4 7. One captain Of Three sent to take Elias was preserved, 2 King 1. 13. One Hearer Of four received the word and pro●ited. Mat. 13. 8. One leper Of Te●●eturned to give thankes being cl●nsed. Luk. 17. 12. One Man Of a City and two of a Tribe were brought out of Captivity, I●r., 14. One Man Was healed a●ter the angel stirted the ●oole Bethesda, joh. 5. 4. One Man Was not found to follow God: Zech. 1. 11. All were at rest, One Man Of a thousand found wisdom and righteousness P●a. 14. 2. 〈◇〉 33. ●3. 〈◇〉 26. One Man Was not to be found that executed judgement 〈◇〉 jerusalem, 〈◇〉 〈◇〉 5. 1. 〈…〉 5. ●. 21. 27. 〈◇〉 4. One Man Was saved of Bethel and of all the Amalekites, the rest slain, 1 Sam. 30. 11. 〈◇〉 1. 25. One Man Godly, was not left amo●● the children of Men, Psa● 2. 1. One Man Wise, among the Corinthians was not among them, 1 Cor. 6. 5. One prodigal Is mentioned to have returned to his Father, Luk. 15. 18. One Runaway Is mentioned to have returned to his Master, Phile. 1. One Th●efe Of Two crucified with Christ was saved, Luk 2. 3. 43. One of Two At Christs coming to Judgement shall be received, Luk. 17. 34. Obadiah H●d the Prophets of the Lord: Iezabell destroyed them, 1 King. 18. 4. Peter james and John saw Christs transfiguration, Mat. 17. 2. The poor Were left in israel by the King of Babylon, jer 39 10. Rahab Was saved with her Housh●ld in Ierechoes destruction, Iosh●. 22. Ruth Accompanied Naomi, Orpah returned to her place, R●th. 1. 1. A Remnant of Israel Is reserved according to the Election of Grace, Rom. 1● 5. 〈◇〉 44. 〈◇〉. A Remnant of Israel ●hat went into Egypt to dwell returned, Ez●. 12. 16.& 6. 8. A Remnant of Israel Was left: and of Moah a third part, all else destroyed, 2 Sam. 8. The S●mari●a● Shewed mercy to the Man in the gospel wounded, Luk. ●0. 33. The Sh●pheards Were first told of Christs Birth at Bethlchem, Luk. ●. 8. The sheep Shall stand at Christs right hand in the day of doom, Mat. ●5. 33. Seventy Elders of Israel had the spirit of prophecy given them, Numb 11. 16. The Town clerk Spake in the behalf of S Paul to free him, Acts 19. 35. 300. Men Of all Israel, were chosen to fight the Lords battle, judge. 7. 7. 10. Men Of fourscore escaped from the hands of ishmael, jer. 41. 8. The widows oil and meal was by the Lord increased, 1 King 17. 14. Mat. ●. ● The wise Men Had ● star to conduct them to Christ: Zoar spared at Lots request, Mica 7. 2. Psal. 33. 12 Gen. 19. 21. Use. Let us strive to enter in at the strait gate, for the way is narrow and few there be that find it. Numb. 31. 18. Mat. 7 13. read: Rom 9. 28. Isa 17. 6. Psal 12. 2. Psal. 14. 3 1 Cor. 1. 27 joh. 12. 38. And to do evil see that thou follow not the multitude. Exod. 23. 2. Election of Gods mercy not mans merit. MErit is a good work, binding him that doth receive it to repay the like: This no man is able to do towards God, therefore there is no Merit in man, for whosoever will merit, must fulfil the whole Law, but none can keep the whole Law: For if we say we have no sin we deceive ourselves, and he 1 joh. 1. 4. that sins against one Commandement is guilty of the whole Law; Then what can he merit that is guilty of the breach of the whole Law? The sufferings of this life, saith S. Paul, are not worthy of the glory to come, if not afflictions, Rom. 8. 18. nothing else that can be done of Man. eternal life is the gift of God: if then the greater benefit come of grace, the inferior must proceed from the same fountain, Rom. 6. 28. I mean such as belong to this life, all which are common, to all that live in the world. The Law was given by Moses, but grace and truth is by Jesus Christ, then no merit in our▪ selves. The Lord promiseth Rewards to those that obey him? Iam. 2. 5. The Lord rewards his own work begun in us, out of his mercy not of our merit: He promiseth rewards to move us to serve him, as he threateneth judgements to those that disobey him. Deut. 28. Abraham Being by Faith only: not by works justified, Rom. 4. 2. The Apostles Who before they gave to any: had freely received, Mat. 10. 8. David Confessing That he had but of Gods own given him and that his well doing extended not to him. 1 Chro. 29. Psal. 16. ●. Dan 9. 18. The Israelits Merited not Who Were of Gods love, not for their number chosen Deut 7 7. Had their Enemies slain for sin not for their Deut. 9. 4. Well-doing: ● were pitied of God not for their Ezech. 36. 22. sake but for his own. job: Merited not Saying If I justify myself, my own Mouth shall co●demne job 9. 20. 30. 31. me: If I make myself perfect, a wicked one will God judge me to be Chap. 15 15. jacob Affirming himself not worthy of the least of Gods mercies Gen 32. 10. Mary That was Gods favour towards her, seeing her lowliness, Luk. 1. 30. Paul Being carnal sold under sin, and called by Grace. Rom. 7. 14, 19. Gal. 1. 15. Man Cannot Merit He is By Grace: not by the Law justified, Rom. 11. 6. Gal. 5. 4. Man Cannot Merit He is By Gods Mercy: not by works saved, 2 T●m. 1. 9. Rom. 3. 9. Man Cannot Merit He is By Nature born the Child of Wrath, Tit. 3. 5. Eth. 2. 3. Man Cannot Merit He is sinful: and the wages of sin is death, 2 joh. 1. 10. R●m. 5. 2●. Man Cannot Merit He is An unprofitable servant in all his life. Luk. 17, 10. He cannot Receive any thing except it be from God. joh. 3. 27. He cannot Answer one of a Thousand before God. job ●●. He cannot Bring forth any fruit acceptable to God. Mat. 7. 16. He cannot justify himself in the sight of God. Psal. 143. 2. He cannot Do any thing without Christ to please joh. 15. 5. Man Cannot Merit His Bodily exercise profiteth little towards God. 1 Tim. 4 8. Man Cannot Merit His righteousness Is as a filthy clout before God. Isa. 44. 6. Man Cannot Merit His righteousness Is not pleasing with God. job 22. 3. Man Cannot Merit His righteousness Doth not extend itself to God. Psal 16. 2. Man Cannot Merit His wickedness hurteth himself not God. Job 35 7. Jer. 79. Man Cannot Merit His sin destroys himself, his help is of God. Hos. 13 9. God Puts away for his own sake mans iniquity, Isa. 43. 25. God Giveth eternal life through Christ with victory, 2 Pet. 1 3. job. 6 40. Rom. 6. 23. 1 Cor 15. 5. 7. God Prepared Heaven before the worlds Creation, joh. 10. 28. Mat. 25 34. God Gives Heaven at his pleasure by his ordination, Acts 17. 25. Luk. 12. 32. God Gives every good and perfect gift without limitation Gal. 5. 4. Iam. 1. 17. Rom. 9. 16. Who Hath first given to God, and it shall be recompensed again? Rom. 11. 35. Who In him, and through him, and to him are all things. Behold God found no steadfastness in his Saints, the Heavens are not job 15. 14. clean in his sight: How much more is man more abominable, Rom. 7. 8. that drinketh iniquity like water, having as Paul confessed job 25 4. of himself, no good thing dwelling in him. Christs Blood cleanseth us from sin, he gave himself for our sin, then forgiveness 1 joh. 1. 7. of sin is obtained not by doing, but by receiving, not Gal. 1. 4. as Agents but as Patients: for that no man cometh unto the joh. 14. 6. Father but by him, who is the way, the truth and the life. The Man That reckons to God his merits doth reckon but Gods mercies▪ The Man Quae bona mea sunt dona tua: My goods are only Gods gifts. Aug. Conf. l. 6. Use. works* Iam. 2. 10. Then cannot keep us but grace, Merit expels Mer●y, M●r●y expels Merit. Nothing can be ascribed to human strength or merit: No man can say his heart is clean, Prov. 20. 9. he is pure from sin( saith Solomon.) Let Papists then boast of perfection, we cry for pardon, they for Merits, we for Mercies, they for justifying works of their own, we for our Saviour Christs alone. Luk. 17. 5. 9.& 18. 4. joh. 1. 6, 29, &c. Chap. 3. 3. Chap. 5. 39. read: Chap. 6. 40 Chap. 14. 6. Acts 13. 48. Chap 15. 16. Rom. 3. 19, 24. Chap. 9. 32. Chap. 11. 23. 1 Cor. 1 27. Chap. 3. 5. Chap. 4. 4. Phil. 1. 29. Col. 1. 12, &c. Gal. 3. 4. Chap. 2. 1●. Chap. 3. 11. 2 Thes. 3. 11. Chap. 2. 16 Heb. 2. 10. 1 Pet. 1. 10. 2 Pet. 1. 2. 1 joh. 2. 12. Chap. 3. 1. Chap 4. 10, 19. Rev. 3. 18. Chap. 21. 6. Wisd 8. 21. If there be no free-will in man to do good, why doth God Ezech. 18. 31. exhort men by his Prophets to return unto him? Isa. 1. 16. God exhorts men by his Prophets to return unto him, commanding Iam. 4. 8, 9. the things( as Saint Augustine saith) that we cannot do, that we might know, what we ought to ask of him, which indeed may appear even by this, that the Lord doth every where by his Prophets will us to turn unto him, to repent of our sins, &c. But Iere●iah answereth, Convert me O Lord, jer. 31. 18. and I shall be converted: When thou didst correct me I did repent, Ioel. 2. &c. Whereupon S. Augustine handling in another place this Doctrine of free-will( saith) O Lord give me that which Aug. Confess. thou commandest, and then command what thou wilt, l. 10. c. 31. work with me what thou of me dost request, Then will I dare the most, and vow the best. Adam Had no Free-Will or Power To turn to God, slying from him, till God called him, Gen. 3. Abraham Had no Free-Will or Power To depart from among the Idolaters till God willed him, Gen 12. Abimelech Had no Free-Will or Power To keep himself from Sarah: but the Lord kept him, Gen. 20. 6. The Apostles Had no Free-Will or Power To answer for themselves: till the Answer was given, Mat. 10. 19. Balaam Had no Free-Will or Power To fore-tell what should come until his eyes were opened. 〈◇〉. 24. 16. 〈◇〉 ●, ● The ●mavits Had no Free-Will or Power To know Christ talking with them until their Eyes were opened. Luk. 24. 16, 3●. 〈…〉 Elishas Man Had no Free-Will or Power To see the Chariots of fire until his Eyes were opened. King●. 18. Hagar Had no Free-Will or Power To spy the well of water until her Eyes were opened. Gen. 21. 19. Lidia Had no Free-Will or Power To hear Paul preaching until her Eyes were opened. Act. 16 4. The blind Had no Free-Will or Power To see the sun shining until their Eyes were opened. joh. 9. 7. The Cripple Had no Free-Will or Power To walk and leap till he was by the Name of Christ Act. 9. 18. healed, Acts 3. daniel Had no Free-Will or Power To speak to the Lord until he was with a hand touched Dan. 10. 10. ●saiah Had no Free-Will or Power To do Gods command until he was with a coal● touched Isa. 6. 6. Sauls Subjects Had no Free-Will or Power To follow Saul till their hearts were by God touched 1 Sam. 10 26, Elijas Had no Free-Will or Power To see the Cake on the coals till he was by an angel 1 King. 19. awaked. Elisha Had no Free-Will or Power To follow Elias: till he had cast his mantle on 1 King. 19. ezechiel Had no Free-Will or Power To hear What was spoken till the spirit entred in him. Eze. 2. 1. ezechiel Had no Free-Will or Power To hear Or to speak till God opened the mouth of him. Eze. 33. 22. jeremiah Had no Free-Will or Power To speak Till God put his word into the mouth of him. jo. 1. 9.& ●0. 23.& 3. ●● jeremiah Had no Free-Will or Power To speak Or to convert till God converted him. Lam. 5. 21. jonah Had no Free-Will or Power To come out of the Fishes belly till God spake to him. Iona 2. 10. joseph Had no Free-Will or Power To deny his mistress, but that Gods fear preserved him. Gen. 39. 9. Moses Had no Free-Will or Power To go to Pharaoh till God said he would be with him. Exod. 4. 11. The Men Had no Free-Will or Power To come to the wedding, till the King sent for them, Mat. 22. 3. Pilate Had no Free-Will or Power To do to Christ: other then that was given him, joh. 19. 11. Peter Had no Free-Will or Power To be constant in believing till Christ prayed for him, Luk. 22. 32. Peter Had no Free-Will or Power To repent his denying Christ till Christ looked on him, Mat. 28. Peter Had no Free-Will or Power To understand the things of God but of Men, Mat. 16. 23. Paul Had no Free-Will or Power To become a Christian, till a voice called from Heaven, Acts 9. Paul Had no Free-Will or Power To be an Apostle but by Gods grace bestowed on him, 1 Cor. 15. 1●. ●al. 1 15. Paul Had no Free-Will or Power To do any thing of himself, but by Christ strengthening him, Phil. 4. 13. The Spouse Had no Free-Will or Power To follow the bridegroom until he was drawn, Cant. 1. 3. Zerubbabel Had no Free-Will or Power To re-edify the Temple, till God stirred up the spirit of him, Hag. 1. 14. Zache●● Had no Free-Will or Power To follow Christ, till Christ willed him to come down, Luk 19. 5. He is Like the Beasts that perish, seeking his own not Psalm. 49. 20. Christs, Phil. 2 21. Man Hath no free-will He is Sanctified by faith only( not by works) in Christ, Acts 26. 18. Man Hath no free-will He is Not sufficient of himself to think any good, 2 Cor 3. 5. Man Hath no free-will He is Dead in sins and trespasses till he be quickened, Eph 2. 1. Man Hath no free-will He cannot bear fruits except he be in Christ as the Branch in the joh. 15. 4. Man Hath no free-will He cannot Vine: Come to Christ except the Father draw him: joh 6. 44. Man Hath no free-will He cannot Get substance till God give power unto him; Or walk. Deut. 8. 18. Man Hath no free-will He cannot in Gods ways, till he bow his heart unto him: Know 1 King. 8 58. Gal, 2. 20. Phil 4. 15. Man Hath no free-will He cannot either love or hatred of all that is before him. Eccles. 9. 1. Man Hath no free-will The imagination of his heart are evil defiling him, Gen. 6. 5. Man Hath no free-will His flesh lusteth against the Spirit, being e●mity to God, Mat. 15. 18. Man Hath no free-will There is not one just man to be sound that s●●●eth God. Gal. 5. 17. Ro. 8 Man Hath no free-will All Jews and Gentiles are entangled in the body of sin, Rom 3. ●0 ●6. Man Hath no free-will All are gone astray, and are to iniquity given: Their Eccles. 7. 20. Man Hath no free-will Throat is like an open Sepul●her devou●ing: Their Psal 14. 1. Man Hath no free-will mouths speak leasing: Their Tongues slattering. Psal. 5●. 2. Man Hath no free-will Their lips are annoynted with Adders poison: Their Psal. 5. 6. Man Hath no free-will Talking is in bitterness and cursing: Their feet swift Rom. 3. Man Hath no free-will to murdering: No good thing is in the flesh of them: Rom. 7. 18. Man Hath no free-will Their body is a body of sin. Rom. 7. 24. Man Hath no free-will His help and strength are in God, his heart fashioned Heb. 1● 9 by him, Psa. 87. 7& 33 14. Man Hath no free-will His Heart deviseth: but the counsel of God doth stand, Prov. 19. ●1 Man Hath no free-will His Steps, paths and ways, are ruled by God alone. jer. 10. 2●. Man Hath no free-will It is God that turneth the Kings heart as pleaseth him, Pro. 21. 1. 2 T●●. 2. 25. D●●t. 29. 4. 〈◇〉 31. 33. Phil. 2. 13 job 32. 8. giving eyes to see, heart to p●●ceive, and repentance to man that worketh both the will and the dead in him. Ez●●●. 11. 19. Psal. 75 7. So that it is not, In him that Willeth but of God to show mercy, Rom. 9. 16. Isa. ●2. 22. In him that Plantet●. but of God to give increase, 1 Cor. 3. 7. I zech 11. 13. In him that Speaketh but of God that speaketh in us. Mat. 10. 20. 1 Cor. 12. 6. In By whom We live move and have our being, Act. 17. 28. In By whom Every good work hath his beginning and ending. Phil. 1. 2. Isa 63. 17. jer. 2●. 7. Chap. 31. 14, 33. Chap. 32. 40. Ezek 11. read: 19. Chap. 36, 26. Mat. 7. 17. Chap. 16. 17. job. ● 1●. Rom. 5. 6. 1 Cor 12. 3. Eph. ●. 5. 2 Tim 2. 25. Tit. 3. 3. Iam. 1. 14 Chap. 4 8. Psalm. 127. Isa. 63. 17. Mat. 13. 19. joh. 1. 12. Rom. 8. 6 Chap▪ 5 12▪ Of Gods Power and Divine Miracles THere is a two fold Power in God, one actual and the other Absolute, actual Is that by which he not only can, but hath done what Wisd. 13▪ 3. he will, and by this he created all things, so now he ruleth and doth all things. Absolute Because God absolutely and simply doth all things, which absolutely and simply are p●ssible to be done of him. Such is that which implieth not a contradiction, and may have the nature of a thing being: So God could, and can yet make many worlds, as well as he did one: He could save all as well as some, the which though they be possible in the pow●r of God, yet are they impossible in regard of the immutable purpose of God. Of Miracles. miracles are works above the strength of Nature, and can be eff●ct●d of none, but by the author of Nature, who only doth them either above or against the power of Nature, and such was the dividing of the read Sea. And though it may be objected, that the Apostles, Prophets and others had a gift to Exod. 14. work Miracles, and that joshuah commanded the sun to stand still, and Elias joh 10. fire from Heaven, God yet never gave to any man power to work and effect 2 King. 1. 10. a Miracle, either mediately or immediately: the gift was the Faith of Miracles, the Faith was grounded upon Revelation, and the Revelation was that God himself would work such or such a Miracle, when they prayed or commanded, &c. Men therefore are properly but the mouth of God, and Messengers to signify what he will do. The devil can do Miracles? He can work a Wonder or thing extraordinary, in respect of ordinary causes job 1. ●6. of Nature: So he caused fire to come down from Heaven on Iobs cattle, but for miracles he cannot do any in that it exceedeth the strength of Nature: 2 Sam. 28. His are but illusions and real actions done by himself or his Instruments. Miracles are wrought in the Church, partly in Mercy and partly in Judgement: Note. In Mercy on jeroboam, whose hand being withered was restored again▪ In Judgement 1 King. 13. on the egyptians. Exod. 14. By the Power of God The Heavens The earth and all the host of them were framed, Gen. 1. Man Was created and Woman, Adam name, Chap. 2. The Apostles Did many wonders and signs which were admired, Act. 2. 43. The Bush Burned that God spake out of to Moses yet not consumed, Exo. 3. 2. Di● Bones Were gathered together and they lived, Ezek. 37. Dead Men Were to life by Christ and others raised, joh. 6. 2 K. 13. The Bow And the mighty men are broken, the weak girded, 1 Sam. 2. 4. Dagon Fell down at Gods ark being by him seated, 1 Sam 5. 3. David Did break through an Host and triumphed, Psal 18. 29. dreams Were by daniel and joseph interpnted, Dan. 6. Gen. 40 12. Disciples Healed the sick, cast out devils, Leape●s cleansed, Mat. 10. Eliah The waters of jordan with his cloak divided, 2 King. 28. Elisha Healed venomous water, made Iron swim in water, 2 King. 4 C. 6. Elisha Procured for the King of Israel without rain water, 2 King. 6. Elisha Made sweet the Pottage death being therein, 2 King. 4. Elisha Fed with twenty loaves of Barley a hundred men, I●em. Elisha prophesied at the playing of a minstrel before him, 2 King. 3. Elisha Cleansed the leprosy of Naaman by washing, 2 King. 5. ezekiel Was carried by the spirit to jerusalem, Ezek 8 3. Fire From the Lord consumed the Sacrifices and burnt-offerings of Gen. 15. L●●. 9. 〈◇〉 6. 11. Abraham: of the israelites, of Gideon, of Manoah, of Elias and 1 King. 18. 12. Solamon. Chro 7. A gored Shadowed Ionahs head and suddenly withered, Iona 4. Henoch And Eliah were without tasting death translated, Gen 5. 2 K. 2. 11 The Hand Of Moses by putting of it into his bosom became leprous Exod 4. 1 King 13. and clean again: the hand of jeroboam was withered up and restored again. The israelites Of Seventy persons going into Egypt, in four hundred yeares, Gen. 15. became Six hundred thousand men, were not touched with the Plagues brought on the egyptians, were delivered from the egyptians Deut. 8. 7. oppressing them: In the Wildernesle were fed with Manna from Heaven: gathering Manna more or less, had all one Deut. 10. in measuring: Their apparel and shoes in forty yeares were Deut. 29. 5. not old with wearing: They passed on dry ground through the Exod. 14. read Sea and jordan, having the presence of the Lord in a Cloud josh. 3. going before them. Gen. 1. Light Was brought out of darkness, life out of death, 2 Cor. 9. 6. miriae Was strucken with leprosy, and again cleansed, Num. 12. Mountaines Trembled and burned, yet were not consumed, Ex. 19. Deu 4. The Man Diseased That stepped first into the pool Bethesda, after the angel of joh. 5. the Lord had stirred it, was healed, S. Paul Healed divers by sending Handkercheifes unto them, Act 19. 12. S Peter Walked on the Sea and healed by shadowing, Mat. 14. Act 5. 15. The Rod Of Moses became a Serpent, and a Rod again, Exo. 4. Of joshuah brought forth buds and blossoms, Numb. 17. The Seas Are ruled, dried, and floods made desert places, Isa 56. 6. Ps● 9. 6. The sun Stood still, and went back ten degrees, josh 10 2 Kin. 20. Stephen Saw the son of Man standing in the heavens, Acts 7. samson slay with the jaw bone of an ass a thousand Philistines, judge▪ 15. The Tongues Of Nimrod and his company were confounded, Gen. 11. Of The Apostles by the Holy Ghost were sanctified, Acts 2. Two Natures Were united into one, being Christ, God and Man, Heb. 2. 14. A Virgin Brought forth a son, being the seed of Man, Isa. 7. 14. Christ Healed all kind of diseases, cast out devils, Mat. ●. Christ Stilled the raging of the Wind and Seas, Mar. 4. Christ Turned water into wine at the Marriage in Cana, joh. 11. Christ Raised Lazarus and others from death to life, joh. 11. Christ Cursed the figtree and it withered, Fed five thousand men Mat. 9. with five Loaves: and four thousand men with seven Loaves Mar. 8. and a few Fishes: Speaking to Iudas band of men that came to Mat. 14. take him, they fell backward: At his death the Graves opened, Mat. 27. and divers that slept appeared: And being butted in a tomb with souldiers watching the same, he raised himself again the Mat. 28. third day after they had butted him. Cedars Of Lebanon are broken: clouds are balanced, Jerem 10, 12. cold cometh out of the North, Deserts are watered, Job 36. 17. The Dust Of the Earth is in a measure comprehended, Psal. 29. 5. deeps Are laid up in Storehouses, by God provided, Nah. 1. 1. Isa. 40. 12. Ps. 33. 7. The Earth Is hanged on nothing, shaken and melted, joh 26. 7. Frost Is given by his breath, and like ashes scattered, job 9. 7. Flames Of Fire are divided, and Flints into fountains turned, Psa. 147. 10. Foundations Of the Earth were laid: and of the Heavens moved, job 38. 4. Hills Are weighed, and Heaven with a span counted, 2 Sam. 22. 8. Heavens Are clothed, and with darkness garnished, Psal. 114 8. Lightnings Are turned to rain: Mountaines weighed and moved, job 28. 25. The noise Of the Seas are st●lled, dr●ed up, and divided, Isa. 50 2. Ps. 65 6, 7 Snow Is given like wool: rain falls on the Land, Psal. 147. 16. Waters Are gathered together, and measured in his hand, Prov. 30. 4. winds Come out of his Treasures, and Ice like morsels, Psal. 147. 17. winds Many O Lord are thy wonderful works which thou hast done, and thy thoughts which are to us wards, they cannot Psal. 40. 5. be reckoned up in order unto thee: If I would declare then▪ they are more then can be numbered. The Lord Doth great things past finding out, yea and wonders without number: Eccles. 11. 5. job. 9. 10. It is the Lords doing, and it is marvellous in our Eyes: unsearchable Psa 118. 23. are his ways. Rom. 11. 33. Great are his signs, mighty are his wonders, his kingdom is everlasting, Dan 3. 33. and his Dominion is from generation to generation. read: job 11. Chap. 37. Chap. 38. Chap. 39. Chap. 40. Hos. 13. 14 Psal. 78. 12. Ecclus. 43. Psal. 135. Psal. 140. Use. 1. Is God so powerful? Let us then learn to know him, whom to know is joh 17. 3. eternal life. If the lion know his strength he is proud of it: If the peacock Gen. 18 27. her beauty shee is proud of it; but if wee once come to know jehovah, Deut. 6. 4. we will say with Abraham, we are but dust and ashes, and with the Prophet he is God alone. I may know with The grammarian to speak purely, I may know with The Rhetorician to plead eloquently, I may know with The Arithmatician to Number perfectly. I may know with The Geomitrician to Measure exactly, I may know with The Astronimer to Foretell probably, But all this knowledge will not bring me to Heaven. I may thus speak well and Live ill. I may thus Dispute subtly and Not see Sathans Sophistry. I may thus Number up accounts and Not number my dayes. I may thus Measure the Earth and Not measure myself. I may thus Have an eye upon Heaven and An heart upon earth. These things may make me learned, not good, great not godly: but goodness and greatness go with the knowledge of God, and therefore it is wisdom to labour for it. 2. do we know God to be omnipotent? Let us not despair in any danger imminent: do we know him to be simplo? let us shun hypocrisy: To be Infinite? let him alone satisfy us. To be Al●-sufficient? let him alone suffice Isa 59. 1. us. His hand ●s not sh●rtned that it cannot save. Gods Providence and Mans Troubles. GOds Providence is a most sure and powerful action of God by which he hath ●rom all Eternity foreseen and fore-ordeyned unto every thing both the end whereunto, and the means whereby they shall be brought to their ends: As also moderat●th and governeth the whol● World, and every thing both great and littl● therein contained. And although God take care for all things without any means, yet that all things are ordin●rily governed indeed not by 1 King. 19. 5. Dan. 3. God only, but by means thereunto ordained by God himself, notwithstanding that often times also Gen. 1. without, yea, and against means he effecteth the same. And alth●ugh G●ds Providence be immu●●able, yet that imposeth not simply a necessity unto things, but that every secondary cause worketh according to its own Nature some necessary, other some accidentally, and yet that this also dependeth on the Divine Providence, in respect whereof all things necessary come to pass. Gods Providence hath two parts Knowledge, and Government. Gods Knowledge Is that whereby all things from the greatest to the least are Psal. 11 4. manifest before him at all times( so saith David.) Gods eyes Psal. 113 6. will consider, his eye-lidds will try the children of men:( And again he saith) God ●b●seth himself to behold the things that Acts. 15. 16. are in Heaven and Earth: From the beginning of the World he know●th all his work●s. Government Is that whereby he ordereth all things and directeth them to Mat. 6. 26. good ends, and it must be extended to the very least things that Deut. 15 4. are in heaven and earth, ●s to sparrows, Oxen, to the hairs of Mat. 10. our head, L●llies of the field. Note There are three things included in the name of Providence, 1. A fore-knowl●dge of all things. 2. A will to bring ●very thing to his end. 3. The very actual government of things Gen 1. 12. By the Providence of God ●dam and Heva Before they wer● created had all things provided for Being naked in B●●y ●a● skins of beasts to cloath t●ē Gen 3. 21. ●dam and Heva Being naked in ●●ul ●a● Christs righteousness to 〈…〉 Abraham Being about to sacrifice his only son Isaac, had a R●mme Gen. 22. in stead of him to be 〈…〉 fired David Being compass●d with Souls Army ready to take him, Tid●ng● of an Invasion made by the Philistines ●n his Land being ● Sam. 23. brought him, removed his Army again, so as David then, and many other times escaped from him. David I retending evils to Nahal, was prevented by Abigcil, 2 Sam. 25. David By the counsel of Huyhai, brought to nought the counsel of 2 Sam 17. David ● chitophell given against him, So as that Absa●on his sonn● conspiring 2 Sam 18. was with Achitop●e● brought to utt●r ruin Daniell●n ●n the lions den was preserved, his Accus●rs perished, Dan 6. daniel ●y expounding of the Kings dream escaped, many wise men destroyed. Dan. 2. Elias In the time of Famine was by Ravens fed, by a widow relieved, 1 King 17. and by an angel nourished. 1 K●●g 19. Elisha Being compassed with an Army of Syrians to take him, they 2 King. 6. were s●●ucken blind, so he escaped them. easter And Mordecai with the Jews were delivered from King Hest. 6. Ahashuerosh Decree, and Haman that procured the same, w●● hanged on his own three. Hagar Wandring in the wilderness espied a Well with which shee Gen. 21. relieved her son Ismaell. joseph Being sold unto the Midianites by his Bretheren, thereby preserved Gen. 45. 5. his Father in time of Famine. joseph He was delivered when his appointed time came, and the counsel Psal. 105. 19. of the Lord had tried him. Ioshuahs spies sent to jericho were hide by Rahab, she was thereby with josh. 2. all hers saved. Cha. 6. The Israelites The more they were by the Egyptians oppressed the more Exod. 1. 12. they increased, being at last from Pharaohs bondage delivered. Chap. 14. And being made the offscouring and refuse in the midst of the Lam. 3. 45. people, their enemies opened their mouths against them, and fear and a snare with destruction being come upon them, were made by the Lord to be pitied of all them that carried them away captives and delivered from their enemies. Psal. 106. 46. jonathan and Ahimaz Being sent by Hushai to David and pursued by Absolom, were 2 Sam. 17. hide in a Well and so delivered by one of Bahurim. jonab Had a Fish in the Sea provided to save him, and a Guord on the Ion. 1. Land, in heat to shadow him. Ion. 4. Iobs Steps were numbered, and his latter dayes blessed, job 14▪ 16. C. 32. 13 jehoshaphat Was delivered from the Ammonites and other: the Lord setting 2 Cron. 20. their own swords to slay each other. Iephta Being expelled by his Bretheren at the first became to be a captain judge. 11. over them at the last. jeremiah In his captivity was provided for by the Enemy, jer. 39. 11. The King of Israel Was often times told by the Prophet Elisha what was intended 2 King. 6. 8. against him by the King of Siria. Moses Being by his Parents to be hide no longer, was taken up and put Exod. 1. to nurse by Pharaohs Daughter. Cha. 2. The oil Of the widow was so increased, as she became able to pay that 2 King. 4. which she was indebted. Paul Was by the Captaines command so guarded, as that he was from Acts 23. the J●wes vowing his death delivered. 2 Cor. 11. 23. Samaria Being by the syrians besieged and almost famished: were by their Enemies own provision at last unthought of by them 2 King. 7. relieved. Shadrach Meshech Abednego Being cast into the fiery Furnace were delivered, and they that Dan. 3. bound them were in the flamme of the same fire burned. Creatures of all kind Before they were created and made, had for each kind several Gen. 2. 30. things provided. And Creatures of all kind Being in the flood destroyed part of each kind were in Noahs Gen. 7. ark preserved. Fowles sow not nor reap, and yet they are said, Luk. 12. 24, 27. lilies Of the Field spin not, and yet they are clothed, lions roar after their prey: and have their meate, Psal. 104. 21. Ravens Cry being young, and they have food to e●te, Psal. 147. 9. sparrows Without licence fall not, though of price little valued, Mat. 10 29. All Beasts Provided are for what they stand in need, Psal. 147 9. Mens hairs are numbered: what shall befall it's decreed, Luk. 12. 7. Use. Sith then the Lord he all things needful doth bestow read: Psal. 107. 15. Mat. 6. 25, 34. do thou for what thou hast not, over-carefull grow. Care thou not for that base wealth, and pelf in which 'vice may become therein, as well as virtue rich. The Lord Care not then for the morrow, for the morrow shall care for it Mat. 6. 34. self, sufficient to the day is the evil thereof. Covereth the Heavens with clouds, prepareth rain for the Psal. 147. 8. Earth. job 33. 6. Createth the smith, &c. and the destroyer to destroy, Isa. 54 16. Changeth times and seasons, taketh away and setteth up Kings, Dan. 2. 21. Bringeth down the high Trees, and exalteth the low Trees, Ezek. 17. 24. Formeth the light, and createth darkness, maketh Peace, &c. Isa 45. 7. Killeth and maketh alive, bringeth down and raiseth up, 1 Sam. 6. 2. Maketh the Wound and bindeth it up, smiteth and maketh Psal. 75. 7. whole. job 5. 18. Seeth all the ways of man, and counteth all his steps, job 31. 1. Moveth the heart of man at his pleasure, setteth the ways Prov. 21. 1. of man before his eyes, pondereth all his doings: and puts his Pro 5 21. tears into his bottle. Psal. 56. 8. What is he then that saith there should some thing be done Lam. 3. 37. without the Lords Commandement▪ Use. 1. The Eccles▪ 9. 11▪ 12. Providence of God leaveth no place for fortune, for Salomon affirmeth, that even the Prov. 16. 33. whole disposition of the Lot is of the Lord: It is therefore plain, that the Lord ordereth all things by his providence, and yet is not busied or turmoiled with any thing. 2. The point of Gods Providence is a great comfort to Gods Church, for that God moderateth the devil and wicked men that they shall not hurt the people of God, according to Davids Psal. 16▪ 8. saying, The Lord is at my right hand, therefore I shall not slide: Iosephs bretheren being afraid because they had sold him into egypt, joseph confesseth that it was God that sent Gen. 45▪ 7. him before them and that for their preservation. David also being like to be stoned by his own Souldiers, knowing they 1 Sam. 30. 16. could do no more against him then the Lord would have done, 2 Sam. 16. 10. comforted himself in the Lord: and being cursed by Shimei, said, that he cursed because God bid him curse. 3. There is no punishment so grievous▪ corporal or spiritual▪ against which Gods Providence is not marvellous available, so that by believing therein he shall have peace and consolation. read▪ Gen. 12. 10, 20. Chap. 20. 8. Chap. 24 15 Chap. 26. Lev. 14. 34. judge. 1. 24. Chap. 15. 19. 2 Sam. 17. Chap▪ 27. 27. 1 Sam. 19. Chap. 20. Chap. 29. Chap. 30. 1 king. 18. 2 King 6 17 Chap. 11. Chap. 5. Chap. 8. 2 Chron. 10. 15. Chap 22 7. Ruth. 1. Chap. 2. jo● 39. Chap 37. 5. Prov. 16. Chap. 21. ●0. Psal. 33. 15. Psal. 147 Psal. 139. Psal. 29. 3. Ezra 1. Amos 3 4. Mat. 2. 13. Chap. 10. 9. Luk. 22. 35. Acts 5. 17. Chap. 12. 6. Act. 9 24. Chap. 16 24. 2 Tim 4. 17. 2 Sam. 14. 2, &c. red of Means 1 King. 22. 25. Psal. 139. 1. Ezek. 34. 11, &c. Isa 54 16. Gods Providence Davids Troubles. Davids Adversaries DAily increased: His Enemies were exalted, Psal. ●. 1.& 13. ●2. Psal. 22. 14. Body Was weak, and powred out like Water, Bones Were out of joint, consumed and cut asunder, Psal 6. 2.& ●2, 14 Psal 6▪ 6.& 31. 9. Belly Was wasted with grief: his eyes dim of sight, Flesh Lost his fatness, his knees were weak with fasting, Psa. 69. 1●.& 11●. 1●7.& 73▪ 14.& 1●6. 3. Ps ●9. ●0.& 3●. 10. Psal. 69. ●1. Ps. 31. 10.& 38. 10 Friends forsook him: his familiars lifted their heels against him, Garments Were Sackcloth about his loins to cover him, Heart Panted, his life wasted, and soul was troubled, Spirit Was full of anguish, his throat dried with crying, Ps 42 5.& 56 5. Ps. ●1. 1●& ●65. Psal. 32 4. Ps. 69. 11.& 717. Yeares Consumed in mourning, his words were grievous to him, Moisture Was like the drought in the heat of Summer, Name Became a Proverb, and his Person a wonder. So that Abjects Scoffers and Drunkards derided him, Psal 69 12. Psal. 18. 5. Idem. 4. Psal. 55. 50. Psal. 32. 4. sorrows Of Death and H●ll with Enemies compassed him, floods Of ungodly men feared him: Confusion was before him, Trembling Came upon him, horror and Dread overwhelmed him, Gods Hand Was heavy upon him: continual plagues followed him. Such yet was Gods Providence over him, as that he overcame Psal. 25. 17. all his adversaries and was settled in his kingdom. Gods Providence Hezekiahs Troubles. Hezekiah was Compassed By the assyrians, and like with sickness to die, Isa. 36. 2. grief And sorrow possessed him, instead of Felicity, His Bones Were broken, as by a lion,( so he complained) His Age As a shepherds tent was remov●d. His Life Was by his sins cut off like a Weavers web, Isa 38. 11▪ Like a Swallow and a Crane he chattered, In his Heart Like a Dove with daily grief he mourned, Such yet was Gods Providence that he delivered him from Isa. 37. 36. the assyrians, restored him to his health, and added fifteen Isa. 38. 5. yeares more unto his life. The Apostles troubles. The Apostles SOme of them were In storms on the Sea, in danger of Mar. 4. 38. drowning. SOme of them were Accused to be full of new wine, drunken, Acts 2. SOme of them were Brought before the counsel, imprisoned Chap 3. and beaten, SOme of them were Reproached and most of them were Chap 5. slain, All by Gods Providence, are now souls in Heaven. Chap. 12. Job's troubles. Iob's Adversary Was the devil whom God permitted to tempt him, job 1. Chap 2, 7, 8, 13. job 19. 17. Chap. 3. 10. job 2. 8.& 9. 12. Chap. 19. 13. Chap. 19. 14. Ch. 19▪ 2.& 16. Cha. 19. 16.( 2. Ch. 19, 19, 22. Beasts Were taken by the Sabeans, and servants slain, sheep Were burnt, a House fell on his Children, Wise Tempted him: his breath was to her stinking, Body Was full of soars, and boils in all throughout, salue For soars was a pot▪ sheared, and Ashes his seat, Acquaintance Were strangers unto him, removed far from him, Familiars Forgot him, his neighbours mocked and forsook him, Friends Tormented him, miserable comforters were they to him, household took him for a Stranger and would not come nigh him, Lovers Turned against him, and as God persecuted him, Enemies Sharpened their eyes, opened their mouths upon him, smote him with reproach, gathering themselves against him, Ch. 16. 9, 10, &c. Bones clavae to his skin, and sinews took no rest in him, Ch. 1●. 14& 19. 20. bowels Did boil without rest: and breath corrupt within him, Ch. 30. 27.& 17. 1. Chap. 7. 5. Chap. 26. 16. Ch. 6. 13.& 30. 30. Chap. 17. 12. Chap. 30. 15. Chap. 7. 4. Chap. 19. 9. Chap ●0. 31. Chap. 17. 14. Chap. 7. 11. Ch. 6. 7.& ●0. 18. Ch. 19. 18.& 5. 25. Chap. 17. 7. Chap. 21. 6. Chap. 30. 15. Chap. 23. ●. Chap. 17. 1. Chap. 30. 10. Chap. 17. 6. Flesh Was clothed with worms, being full of wrinkles, Face Was ●ithered with his tears and weeping, gull Was powred out, and his skin was black upon him, Day Was turned into night, and light was dim, Health Passed away, as the Cloud that hath no rain, Nights Were painful with his continual tossing, crown Was taken from him, Honor was not given him, harp Was turned into mourning, his Organs to weeping, dreams Were fearefullnesse▪ and visions astonished him, mind Was full of bitterness, his spirit full of griefs, Meat Was daily sorrows: and Garments diseases, paths Were beset with darkness, his peace was disquietness, Strength Was like a shadow: his cry was out of violence, Sighings Came before he did eat: then roarings followed, soul As the wind by the wicked was pursued, talk Was in bitterness: and his words were swallowed, Wealth Was taken from him, the grave and death were near him, Young men Mocked him, the wicked make Songs of him; All abhorred him, job 7. 20. making him as a Tabret and as a By-word among them: Such yet was Gods Providence over him, as that he was delivered out of all his misery, and had a double blessing in all those things, that he had lost in the beginning. Gods Providence Paul's Troubles. Paul was RAiled on, called a Pestilent fellow, a babbler, a setter forth of strange gods, Acts 24. and a mover of Sedition. Chap. 13. He was expelled out of the coasts of the Iewes, cast out of the City, cast into Chap. 14. Prison, cast out of the Temple and stoned, supposing to have been dead: He Ch. 15. Ch. 16. Ch. 17 Ch. 24. Ch. ●0. 23. was soare bea●●●, bound with chains, imprisoned, scourged and brought to Judgement. As also he was ●n danger at Sea, made a gazing stock unto the World, to Angells and to 1 Cor. 4. Men. He was often in death, he received five times forty stripes save one of the Iewes: He was thrice beaten with rods: He was in peril of Robbers, 2 Cor. 11. 2 Cor. 4. 8. 2 Cor 1. 8. Chap. 7. 5. 2 Tim. 4 8. Acts ●0. 24. of his owns Nation, and of the Gentil●s: He was in weariness, painefullnesse, hunger, th 〈…〉, f●st●ng, could and naknesse often, being cumbered daily, having no certain pl●ce to dw●ll in, labouring with his hands to relieve himself, being made as the fi●th of the World and the offscouring of all things: Who by Gods Provi●ence hath now obtained a crown of glory in the Heavens. Abel was slain by cain Gen. 4. josiah by an egyptian. 2 King. 23. 2 King ●1. Mat. 22. 2 Cor. 8. 2. Abner was slain by joab ● Sam. 3. Isaiah by Manasses. Uriah was slain by ●ehojakim jer. 26 james and John by Herod. zachary the Priest was stoned by jehoash 2 Chro. 24 Mat. 25. Act 7. Rev. 2. Rev. 1. Stephen the M●rty● was stoned by the Iewes. Antipas The M●rtyr was put to death by the men of Pergamus, St joh● Was banished for the Truth into the Isle Pathmos, Divers godly persons saith Paul Had try●lls in cruel mockings and scou●gin●●, others were tortu●ed, not accepting deliverance, others had trial of bonds and imprisonmnent; They were stoned, ●awne asunder, tempted and slain with the sword: others wandered abroad in Heb. 11. 35. Sheepe-skinnes and Goate-skinnes, being destitute, ●fflicted and tormented: wand●●ng in D●s●r●s, in Denn●s, in Caves and in Mountaines, making them their habitations. Man is born to troubles, as the spa●ckles fly upwards. joh 9. 2. Thus as the purest corn is cleanest famned, the finest Gold Nah. 1. 7. ● T●m. 3. 17. 2 Tim. 3. 12. Rev. 3. 19. oftenest tried: the sweetest Grape hardest pressed: So is the godliest person heaviest crossed Every one that will live godly in Christ shall suffer persecution: As many as I love I rebuk and chasten, saith the Lord. Use. It should teach us all to take up our cross and to follow Christ. Now the cross of the humble man the poor● man is Injury, Scarcity, of the Religious Fasting. Now the cross of the humble man the poor● man is Injury, Scarcity, of the Godly Contempt. Say then with jeremy this is my cross, and I will bear it. jer. 10. 19. Gods Providence godly mens Adversaries. Had to Adversary Adam A Serpent In the beginning to tempt Gen. 3. Gen. 4. Gen. 1●. 1 Sam. 22. 2 Sam. 3. Am. 7. 10. 1 Sam. 17 33. 2 Sam. 16. 1 Sā. 18. 2 Sam 15. 2 Kin. 2 Sam. 3 15. 2 Sam. 17. Dan. 6. 1 Sam. 2. 2 Kin. 6. 1 Sam. 2. 6. Gē. 16. 4. 2 Kin. 18. Gen. 21. Gen. 27. Chap. 29. Gen. 30. Abel A Brother In the beginning to murder him. Abraham Two Kings To take away Sarah his wife from him, Abiathar Doeg To inform King Saul against him, Abner joab To stab him: Amos, Amaziah to accuse him, David A Philistine A bear, and a lion to try him, David Saul To persecute him: Shemei to curse him, David His sons To rebel against him, his Wife to mock him, David Phaltiel To wed his Wife, making her his Concubine, David Achitophel To give counsel to Absolom his son against him, daniel Princes That envied him: Eli: sons that grieved him, Elias Iesabell To pursue him: Elisha: jehoram and the Sirian, Hanna Peninnah To provoke her: Sarah: Hagar to despise her, Hezechiah Rabshakah To menace him: Isaac: ishmael to flout him, jacob Esau To hate him: Laban to pursue him, jacob rachel His Wife for want of Children to vex him, Had to Adversary joseph The Patriarks To sell him: His Mistris to slander him, Gen. 37. Gen. 39. 2 King. 25. Dan. 5. 8. ●ob 1. Chap. 2. Jer. 32. Chap. 36. 3 joh 9. Act. 12. Gen. ●9 Iude 5. Est. 2. 2 Sam ●6. Gen ●● King. 21. Act. 13. Chap 19 Mat. 26 ● King. 11. 1 Thes. 2. 18 The Iewes babylonians Medes, Persians, Siracusans to accuse them, The Iewes Romans To subdue them and Chaldeans to accuse them, job The devil To torment him: Sabeans to rob him, job His Wise To vex him: His friends to discomfort him, jeremiah Pashur To imprison him, jehojakim to seek the life of him, John Diotrephes To pra●tle against him: james: Herod to slay him, Lot His Daughter To beguile him: Michael; the devil to dispute with him, Mord●cay Haman To plot against him: Mephibosheth; his servant, Noah His son To discover him. Naboth, Akah to dispossess him, Paul Elimas Demetrius and Alexander to withstand him, Peter A damsel To accuse him. Solomon, Hadab to rise against him, Silvanus satan So had Paul and Timotheus to hinder them, Stephen The People And Zechariah the Priest, to ston them, Act. 7. 52. 2 Ch●. 24. Mat 26. Mat. 27. Exo. 7. 2 Tim. 3. 8. Christ The Iewes And Romans to crucify him: Iudas to betray him, Christ One thief To revile him: All the people to deride him, Moses Iannes And jambres Sorce●●rs to withstand him, So that it is impossi●le to escape Esaus sword, or Ishmaels tongue, Shemeis stones, Doegs slander, or Ioabs treachery: Heaven had their wicked Ange●s, The L●l●y his thorns: The Temple Hill-Altars: The Coagregation a Diotrephes: Thiatira, jezabel a false prophetess: Demas will be among 2 joh 9. Rev 2. 22. job 1. 0. Mat. 13. 25. Prof●ss●●s: satan among Gods Children in the Assemblies: When the●● were but four there was a Cain, when but eight a Cham, when but twelve a Iudas: Not seven without a Nicolas, Philistines shall be left in the Land to exercise the Israelites, and good seed his tares. GODS Providence, delivering afflicted Men Calling on him in their Tribulation. In Tribulation David 2 Sam 22▪ 7. Gen 16. Gen. 35 3. Job 42. Exod. 14. Exod. Ch. ●. Jonah 3. Hagar Jacob Job Israelites Moses The Ninivites Daniel Dan. 6. 1 Sam. 1. 2 King. 13. 2 King. 25. Gen. 9. 22. 2 Chro. 33. judge. 16. Hanna Jehoaz Jehoiakim Leah Manasses samson Esther Esth. 7. Gen. 21. 17. Joh 2. L●m. 3. 55. Gen. Dan. 4 31. Dan. 3. ishmael Jonah Jeremiah Lot Nebuch●dnez: The 3. Children Called on the name of the Lord and he delivered them, Christ Had an angel from Heaven comforting him, Luk. 22 43. ilb 14 16. 2 Cor. 12. 9.& 7 9. The Apostles Were promised the Holy Ghost to comfort them, Paul Heard God saying, his Grace was sufficient for him, The Man That returneth unto the Lord and seeketh him shall find him, For the rod of the wicked shall not rest on the Lot of the ri●hteous, 2 Chro. 15. 4. Psal. 125. 5. 2 Pet. 2. 9. Psal 30 5. Psal. ●2. 24. Psal. 106. 47. job 2● 28. Psal. 145. 19. job. ●6. 1●. Psal 8● 7. least the righteous put forth his hand unto wickedness, The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of tent●tio●: The Lords anger endureth but a while, Weeping may abide at evening, but joy cometh in the morning. Comforteth Those that are afflicted, calling upon him, Heareth The cry of the afflicted, and delivereth them, Heard The poor mans cry in trouble and saved him, Seeth The affliction of them that fear him and saveth them, Saw The oppression of the Israelites and their cry came to him, Will Answer or ever they call on him, and while they are but thinking Isa 6●. 24. how to speak, he will hear them And will not suffer any to be tempted above measure, but with 2 Cor. ●. 4. 1 Cor. ●. 13. Psal. 9. 15. Psal. 46. ●7. Psal. 120. 2 Sam. 7. 14. Hos 5 1●. the temptation will g●ve deliverance: for if we sin he will chasten us with the rod of man, but his mercy shall not be taken away from them. I will go to my place saith the Lord, till they aclowledge that they have sinned and secke me, for in adversity they will seek me early. Many are the troubles of the righteous, but God delivers Psal. 34. 18. them out of all. Cast then thy burden on the Lord, and he shall nourish Psal 55 23. thee. read: Deut 4. 29. Chap 8. 5. Isa 43. 2. 2 King. 6. 16. Psal. 18. 6. Psal. 22. 24. Psal. 34 6, 7. Psal. 72. 12. Psal. 58 15. Psal. 107. 43. Psal. 121. 4. Psal. 103. 8. Prov. 11. 12. Rom. 5. 3. james 1. 2. Ps. 18. 16. Gods Providence making Afflictions profitable to all godly persons. AFflictions of the wicked are Curses or legal punishments and signs of Reprobation, Wisd. 11. 9, 11. 1 Cor 11. 32. Psal 78 34. Prov. 3 12. Psal 94. 12. Heb. 12. 6. proceeding from God as a Judge, but unto the Godly they are trials and corrections, and seals of Adoption, proceeding from God as a Father, being the path-way to Humiliation, an Argument of Gods Love, and the only means to bring us unto a godly sorrow for sin: Which sorrow is the burd●n of every Christian, Confidence being the shoulder to hold up this burden, and Comfort the hand to help this shoulder, with which whosoever are acquainted, know the mystery of godly holy Comfort, which is the Christians Heaven upon Earth, joy in Life, hope in Death, prosperity in adversity, staff in affliction, Anchor in Desperation, and breast plate of preservation, being the golden chain to bring us unto Heaven and Glorification. 2. From Affliction a●●seth Humility, pitying of others, prayer, trial of our Faith, renouncing of the world, and a hearty desire of the World to come. Davids sweetest Songs in affliction were lachrimae, he spared Soul his enemy in Rom 5 3. Is●. 20. 16. prosperity slay Uriah his friend. Hezekiah in his b●d of sickness, humbled himself praying, being recovered to his health boast●th of his Treasures. Abel Abrahams Being slain, became the first Martyr in Heaven, Gen. 4. Gen. 22. 2 Tim 4 ●. Ps. 40. 1. Psal. 40 2. ● Sam. 16. 2 Sam. 24. 17. &c. Ps. 119. 67, 7●. Abel Abrahams Faith was tried: The Apostles in Heaven are crwoned, David From a Sheepe-keeper, was made a chief Commander, David His feet being in the Mire were set on a Ro●k, David Being Cursed of Shemel; learned to bear it patiently, David Confessed, that in numbering the people he had sinned, David Being proud in numbering was humbled by repenting, David Kept the Word of the Lord, learned the Lords Statutes, David And was bettered, whereas before he went astray until he was Corrected. Affliction sends us to Christ as leprosy did those ten: Prosperity makes us leave Christ as it did those nine. Through Affliction Daniel From the Lions Den was more honoured by the King, Dan. 6. 1 King 19. Isa. 38. Gen. 16. judge. 11. jer. 31 18. Lam. 3. 27. Ion 1. Ch. 3. Gen. 32. job 42. Elijas Hearing first a great voice, heard next a still one, Hezekiah Being sick unto the Death, had fifteen yeares added to his life, Hagar In her distress learned humility to her Mistris, jephtah Became captain over all his elder Bretheren, Ephraim Was converted being like an untamed calf, and jeremy confessed it was good to bear the yoke in youth. jonah Flying from God, learned after to obey the Lord, jacob Being lame by wrestling, obtained of God a blessing, job losing first all that he had, received at last a double reward, joseph Being exiled, was by King pharaoh exalted, S. John Being hanished, was with heavenly melody ravished, Act. 7. 10. Psal. Rev. 1.( 105. 21 josh. 2. Exod. 1. Numb. 21. 2 Chron. 12. Deut. 5. 26. Hos. 2. 6, 7. Neh 9. 28. Exod. 2. The israelites After Egypts cruelty, enjoyed canaans Mill●● and Honey, The israelites The more they were oppres●ed, the more they increased, The israelites Being stung with Serpents, confessed their sins, The israelites Seeing the Philistines gathered against them, They prayed Samuel to pray for them, Hearing the Law they humbled: and having Warres with others, wee read not that they ●ell away from God: but being in peace and prosperity, they ●ell often into Idolatry. Moses From a Servant in Midian, became a States-man. Mordecay Was advanced: Noah in the ark with beasts saved, Est. 3, Gen. 7. Dan. 4. 2 Ki. 5. joh 9. 45. Gen. 42 Lu. 15. Acts 9. Ruth 1. Nebuchadnez: Knew the Lord: And Naaman to worship God, The Man born blind, his eyes being opened he believed, The Patriarks Conscience accused them: The prodigal returned again, Paul Of a Persecutor, became an Apostle and a Prea●●er, Ruth Of a Moabite by Marriage became an Israelite: Zacheus Being dumb, spake after the mystery of Salvation, Luke 1. Phil. 2. 8, 9. Eph. 1 ●0. Hose 5. 15. Isa 16 6. Psal 78. 32. Rom. ● 1. 2 Cor. 11. 32. Christ Became obedient to the death of the cross for Man, God therefore exalted him, giving him a Name above all Names, &c. All Men Are made to seek the Lord most diligently, their ears are opened, as gold they are tried, who are by him chastened, that they may not be with the world condemned, job 33. 16. Chap 36▪ 8 ●b 23. 10. Blessed is the Man whom the Lord correcteth and chasteneth, job 5. 17. james 1 12. H●b. 12 8. Heb. 12▪ 6. Pr●. 11, 2 Tim. 3. 12.( 12. Rom. 8. 28. He is a Bastard no son, that is without Correction, The Lord rebuketh and chasteneth so many as he lov●th, Every person th●t will live godly in Christ, shall suffer persecution, All which shall turn to the best to those that love God. USE. Seeing Afflictions are so profitable, let us run with patience the way that is set before u●, looking unto Christ the Author and finisher of our Faith, who for Heb. 12. 2, 3. the joy that was set before him, endured the cross, and desp●sed the shane: For through many Tribulations must we enter into the kingdom of Heaven. Acts 14. 22. D●l●ia now meruit qui non gustavit amara. 1 Pet. 4. 1●. Who so hath not ●asted the things that are bitter 1 Pet 1. 6. Is not worthy to taste the things that are sweeter. james 5. 10. Reader: Isa 61. 3 Cha●. 20. 16. Ierem. 2. 3. Psal. 66. 12. Prov. 24. 10. joh. 15. 2. 2 Cor. 1. 4. Heb. 2. 10. Wisd. 12. 2. Gods Providence, Mans Purpose, Gods Disposing. Adam and purpose● To be as God by eating to know good and evil, God so disposed it as that Gen. 3. Heva purpose● They knew experimentally evil not good, Gen. 3. Abraham purpose● To sacrifice his son, God provided him a ram, Gen 22. josh. 7. 2 Sam. 18. 2 Sam. 17. A●han purpose● To conceal the execrable thing that was found on him, Absolom purpose● To be King: He was shine for his Treason, Achitphel purpose● To prevail in counseling: Hushai●onfounded him, Ahaziah purpose● To take Elias by sending two Captaines after him, 2 King. 1. Ahaziah purpose● They were both burnt with fire from Heaven, 2 King. 1. Aohish purpose● To have David to battle against the Israelites, 1 Sam. 29. Aohish purpose● To have His mind was changed by his Princes, 1 Sam. 29. Amal●kit purpose● To get Davids favour for untruly reporting that King Saul was stain by him, 2 Sam. 1. Amal●kit purpose● To get He was therefore put to death for slaying him, Ana●ias and Zaphira purpose● To keep back Part of the Money made by them, but the Lord discovered it, Acts 5. Ana●ias and Zaphira purpose● To keep back To the Apostles to both their destruction, Acts 5. Balaack purpose● To have Israell by Balaam cursed, he blessed them, Namh ●4. 2 Sam. 11. David purpose● To conceal his Adultery, Nathan discovered it, David purpose● To build a House to God, the Lord forbade it, David purpose● To build a Temple for the Lord to dwell therein, 1 King. 8. 18. David purpose● He was commanded to leave it to his son Solomon, 1 King. 8. 18. The devil purpose● To prevail Against man-kind by Christs passion, Co●. 13. Heb. 2 15. 1 Tim. 2 24. Gen 27. Gen. 33. Fs●h 2. judge. 11. 2 King 5. The devil purpose● To prevail Christ thereby over●ame him, and The devil purpose● To prevail To all men believing in him, give salvation, Esau purpose● To have slain jacob for stealing his blessing, he notwithstanding afterwards kindly received him, Job 17. 11 Eunu●●es purpose● To have slain Ahashuerosh Mordecai discovered them, Gileadites purpose● To disinherit jephtah, he became their captain, G●bazi purpose● To have concealed Naamans gifts, Elisha knew them, Hamor purpose● To have Gotten by circunctsing the Shechemites Dinah Iacohs Daughter for his Son Shechem, he wasl●in with all the Shechemites by Le●i& Sim●●n. Gen. 34. Haman purpose● To have hanged Mordecai he was hanged to his Tree● Esth. 2. Haman and His Men purpose● To Murder The Iewes according to the King▪ Dec●ee, God so disposed it that Esth 9. Haman and His Men purpose● To Murder They were all slain by the Iewes that day, Esth 9. Herod purposed To Destroy Christ, sending wise-men to seek him, Mat. 2. Herod purposed To Destroy They returned not, he was mocked by them, Acts 12. 6. isaac purposed To bless Esau before jacob his younger Son: He blessed jacob before Esan the elder one, Jer. 20. 9. Mat. 1. 19. Gen. 27. joseph purposed To have Manasses blessed before Ephraim by his Father, Gen 48. jacob blessed Ephraim before Manasses the elder, jonah purposed To fly From Gods presence to Tharshish: he was Ion. 1. brought back by a storm and Sea-fish, Iewes purposed To slay Paul conspiringly, he escapeth safely, Act. 23. 15. jehoram purposed To slay Elisha, but he escaped the murderer, 2 King. 0. joseph purposed To put away Mary an angel willed him to take her, Mat. 1. Laban purposed To speak ill to Icob, yet spake good to him, Gen. 31. Nebuchadnez: purposed To burn the Three Children, but God delivered them, Dan. 3. Nimrod purposed To Build Babel to get himself and his a Name: All Languages were confounded at the same, Gen. 11. pharaoh purposed To have slain M●ses but he fled to M●dian, Exod 3. Gen. 39. Ch. ●0 20. Patriarks purposed To do evil to joseph, but it was honour to him, Gen 41. Potiphars Wise purposed to lie with joseph, but Gods fear preserved him, judge 16. Philislines purposed To make sport with samson: Justice plagu d● them, Rom 1. 13. Priests and Scribes purposed To have Entangled Christ in his words, but he prevented Luk. 20. ●0. Mat. 27. Mat. 27. them, and to have held him in the grave, but he rose again, Act. 16. 7. Luk. 12. 17. Peter purposed To confess Christs his M●ster, but denied him, Acts 9. Paul purposed To persecute Christs Members, yet preached him, Luk 12. R●ch Man purposed To take his ease, his soul was taken from him, 1 Sam. 19. 21. Saul purposed To have slain David, but God defended him, N●h. ●,( 23. Act 27. ●3. Sanba●●at purposed To hinder the Iewes building; his counsel was discovered Souldiers purposed To have slain Paul, but Paul was preserved, The Wicked Intend evil against the Lord, and imagine mischief, but they shall not prevail, Psal. 21. 11. The Lord Scattereth the devices of the crasty, so that their hands cannot accomplish that which they enterprise, job 5 12. E●cles 8. 8. Pro. 16. 9. I●. 10. ●●. Pro. 15. 22. joh. 1●. ●1, Prov 16. 3. Prov 21. 31. The Heart Of Man, purposeth his way, but the Lord directeth is steps, The Lot Is cast, but the ordering thereof standeth in the Lord, The Horse Is prepared for the battle, but safety is from the Lord, There is no wisdom, there is no understanding, thee is no counsel against the Lord, Prov. 21. 30. The Lord of Hostes Hath purposed, who sh●ll disannul it? he hath stretched forth his hand, who shall turn it again? It shall come ●. p●sse as he hath determined and devised, Isa 14. 24. 27. Act. 17. 28. For in him we live and move and have out being, So that neither life, nor death, are in our hands, but in the Lords: and all the motions of our mind and body depend on God. Comforts for godly afflicted persons, drawn from Gods Word. Art thou blind So war Isaac Whose eyes with age were dim, Gen. ●7. 1. Gen. 48. 10. 1 Sam 4. 15. 1 K● 44 4. Isa. 35. 5. blind So war jacob Whose eyes with age were dim, blind So war Eli the Priest Whose eyes with age were dim, blind So war Ahijah the Prophet Whose eyes with age were dim, blind So war samson Whose eyes were put out by the philistines, judge. 16. blind So war The Man So born estored to sight by Jesus, joh. 9. Acts 9. Mat. 6. Psa. 1●6. 8. blind So war Paul Thee daye● estored to sight by Ananias, blind So war Bartimeus And other estored to sight by the Messiah, blind So war The Man Whose Bares were by Christ opened, Mar. 7. Mat. 9. Luk. 2. Isa. 35. 6. judge. 3. 15. Gen. 32. 2 Sam. 9. Act 14. 8. Acts 3. deaf So war The Man Whose Tongue was by Christ loosed, dumb So war Zacharias For a time, till his Son John was name, Lame Ehud captain of the Israelites in his right hand, Lame jacob halting by restling, yet got a bl●ssing, Lame Mevhihosheth By a fall, the only son of jonathan, Lame The Man Of Listra from his Mothers womb, Lame The Cripple So born, healed by Peter and John, S●●k or d●●cas●● So war Moses Exod. 4. 28. Hezekiah, 2 King. 21. Daniel, Dan. 8. joh. 4. Mat ● Psa 41. Mat. 9.( 3. joh 5. Act. 28. Phil 2. Act 8. S●●k or d●●cas●● So war The Centurions Servant, Luk. 7. The Rulers Sonn●, S●●k or d●●cas●● So war Peters Wives Mother, Mat 8. and the palsy Man, S●●k or d●●cas●● So war The Woman Twelve yeares, and her issue stayed, S●●k or d●●cas●● So war The Man Thirty eight yeares, yet at last healed, S●●k or d●●cas●● So war Publius His Father, and Epaphroditus both cured, S●●k or d●●cas●● So war ●neas With many other, who were to health restored, Full of ●orres So war job Sitting in the Ashes, yet made clean, jo● 2. Luk. 16. Full of ●orres So war Lazarus Lying at Dives door, now in Heaven. V●x●d with an evil ●pu●● So w●● The son Of the Father in the gospel being lunatic, Mat. 17. 5. Act. 16. 16. V●x●d with an evil ●pu●● So w●● T●e maid Of the Master in the Acts with a divining spirit, V●x●d with an evil ●pu●● So w●● The Daughter Of the Caananitish woman with one devil, Mat 15. Luk. 8. 2. Mar. 5. 9. V●x●d with an evil ●pu●● So w●● ●●gdalen That sinful Woman with seven, V●x●d with an evil ●pu●● So w●● The Man Lying among the graves with a Legion, And they were all cast out of them. ●istracted ●os●ded Muttheted So w●● ●chuchadnez: For seven yeares time, and restored again, Dan 4. Luk 10. Gen. 4. ●istracted ●os●ded Muttheted So w●● The Man Going from jerusalem, relieved by a Samaritare, ●istracted ●os●ded Muttheted So w●● Abel By Cain, who is now a Saint in Heaven, Dead So w●4 Eli●s Hostises, 1 King. 17. and the Shunamites son, 2 King. 4. Luk. 7. 14. Mat. 9. Acts 20. Pa●. 68. 20. Psal. 56. 13. Dead So w●● T●e soldier slain, 2 King. 3. and the widows only one, Dead So w●● Lazarus In the Grave, joh. 11. jairus daughter sl●eping, Dead So w●4 Doreas stretched forth. Act 9. Eu●icus b●●●l●ing, Dead So w●● All these bad life restored on Earth to them again, Dead So w●● All shall have life restored that die in Christ in Heaven. Hungry So w●● samson Who Had Honey out of a lions body, judge. 14. 1 Sam. 14. 1 Sam. ●1. 1 King. 19. Luk 15. Luk 16. Mat. 4. Hungry So w●● Ioka●han Who Found Honey in a Wood, Hungry So w●● David Who Was forced to take show bread, Hungry So w●● Elias Who Was by an angel nourished, Hungry So w●● The Prodigal Who Who would have eaten Swines husks, Hungry So w●● Iazarus Who Who would have eat●n D●ves crumbs, Mat. 21. 18. Hungry So w●4 Christ After his long Prayers and Fastings. And so were Hungry So w●● The Israelits Had Manna given from Heaven, Ps 107 5, 9. Ex. 16. Mat. 12 Mat. 14. Ps 78. 24. Hungry So w●● T●●●. ●●ples Plucked the ear●s of corn, Hungry So w●● The Multitude Had Loaves increased ●●ong them, Thirsty So w●● Hazar Who had water out of a Well, Gen. 21. 19. job 47. joh 15 ●●●●0. Ps● 8. ●5 Thirsty So w●● Christ Who had water out of a Touth, Isa 41. 27 Thirsty So was Israel Who had water out of a Rock. Naked So was Adam Eve And God clothed both of them, Gen. 3. Luk ●6. 2 C●r. 11. Naked So was Lazarus On Earth, now ●ichly clothed in Heaven, Naked So was Paul Who preached, yet wanted to cloath him, Put on the Lord Iesus Christ, and make no provisions for the flesh to fulfil the lusts thereof. Rom. 13. 14. poor So was David Who Sent to Nabal to relieve him, 1 Sam. 25. poor So was Elias Who Was sent to a widow to su●●eyne him, 1 King 17. poor So was jeremiah Who Was by Godaliah and others relieved, jer 30 11. poor So was The Prophe●s wise Who Had her oil by Elisha increased. 2 King. 4. poor So was joh Who Had all taken from him by the Chaldeans, job 1. poor So was jacob Who Had but a itaffe going over jordan, Gen 32. 10. poor So was Moses Who Kept sheep with the Priest of Midian, Exod ●. poor So was Ruth Who Lived by gleaning ears of corn, Ruth 2. poor So was Lazarus Who Desired to have but Dives crumbs, Luk 16. 11. poor So was Prodigal Who Would have had the husk from Swine, Luk. 15. 10. poor So was The Man Who Wonted one at the pool to help him, job 29. 25.& 31. Psa. 22. 15. Ruth 1. 22. job. 5. poor So was The Woman Who Who had spent all she had on the physician. Mat. 9. poor So was Paul Who Wrought with his hands to relieve him, Acts 20. poor So was Peter Who Had no silver to give being asked him, Acts 3. poor So was Christ Who Was ministered unto by Women. Luk 8. And so were job. 8. 7.& 22. ●9 The Israelites Who were by The Midianites impoverished, judge. 6. 6. 1 King. 18. job 8. 7.& 22. ●9 The Prophets Who were by Obadiah nourished, Psal. 31. 24. Ps. 48. 16. Ps. 36. 16. Ps. 9. 9. Compassed with ene●●e●? So was King Asa By Zerah, 2 Chron. 14. David by Saul, 1 Sam. 23. Compassed with ene●●e●? So was Elisha By the Amorites, 2 Kin. 6. Elias by Captains, Psal. 18. 17.& 22. 16& 57 3, 4. job 5. 20. 2 King. 1. Compassed with ene●●e●? So was Hezekiah By Assyrians, 2 Kin. 18. Ichoshaphat by Ammonits, 2 Chron. 20. Compassed with ene●●e●? So was Lot By Sodomites, Gen. 19. samson by Philistines, judge. 16. Compassed with ene●●e●? So was Daniel By the Lions, Dan. 6. Shadrach by the furnace, Dan. 3. Compassed with ene●●e●? So was Paul By Sadduces, Act. 23 Christ by Jews, John 8. 59. Compassed with ene●●e●? So was Israel By Egyptians, Exod. 14. Samaria by Syrians, 2 King. 7. And every of them were freed again. Psal. ●●8 ●●, 11. psal. 18. 17.& 11. 8. 9. Art thou Imprisoned, So were The Apost Act. 5. joseph, Gen. 39. and jehoahaz, 2 King. 13. Imprisoned, So were jeremiah jer. 38. Ichoiakim, 2 Kin. 24. Manasseh. 2 Chron. 33. Imprisoned, So were Peter Act. 12. Paul, Act. 16. and Silas Act. 16. 23. Psal. 102. 20. Psal. 69. 33. Psal. 68. 6. Banished, So were S. John Into the Isle called Patmos, Act. 18. 2●. Rev. 1. B●trayed, So were Christ By his own Apostle Iudas, Matth. 27. A Prince conspired against, So were Abasuerus By two E●nuches that followed him, Act. 5. 23. Gen. 37 18. judge. 9. 1. Act. 9. 23. Psa. 31. 13. Esth. 6. A Prince conspired against, So were Ieh●ash By Athaliab when he was young, 2 King. 11. A Prince conspired against, So were David By Abner, Sheba, and his son, 2 Sam. 2 〈◇〉 The Lord delivered all of them. Accused and slandered, So was Abimelech By Do●g, 1 Sam. 22 Amos by Amaziah, Amos 7. 10. Dan. 6. 2 King. 3. Gen. 31. 30. 1 Sam. 20. jer. 37. 1 King. 21. Act. 6. 11. 2 King. 33. Matth. 28. 12. Act. 2. Accused and slandered, So was David By adversaries, Psal. 27. 12. Daniel by Princes, Accused and slandered, So was Elias By Ahab, 1 Kin. 18. Elisha by jehoram, Accused and slandered, So was Hanna By Eli, 1 Sam. 1. 1●. jacob by Laban, Accused and slandered, So was joseph By his mistress Gen. 39. jonathan by his father, Accused and slandered, So was joh By the devil, joh 1. jeremiah by Irijah, Ps. 27. 12.& 35. 11. job 11. 18, 19.& 21. 27. Accused and slandered, So was Mephihos. By Ziha, 2 Sam. 16 Naboth by wicked men, Accused and slandered, So was Paul By Tertullus, Act. 24. Ro. 3. 8. Steven by suborned men Accused and slandered, So was God Himself by that wicked king jehoram, Accused and slandered, So was Christ By the multitude, Luk. 23. 2. Apostles by souldiers, Accused and slandered, So was The ●ewes By Haman. Es●h. 3. The Disciples by divers, Luk. 23 10. John 7. 49. Act. 18. 13.& 21. 28.& 25. 7. Forsaken of any one, So was Hagar and Ishmael By Abraham and Sarah, and the Lord comforted them, Gen. 21. Forsaken of any one, So was Moses and David By their Father, and mother, and God was with them, Exod. 2. ● Ps. ●●. 18.& ●. ●. ●. ●& 98. 8.& I●● 19. 1● 14. 2 T●●. 4. 16. Ps. 27. 10 Ps. ●●. 18.& ●. ●. ●. ●& 98. 8.& I●● 19. 1● 14. 2 T●●. 4. 16. job 19. Ps. ●●. 18.& ●. ●. ●. ●& 98. 8.& I●● 19. 1● 14. 2 T●●. 4. 16. mat. 26. Ps. ●●. 18.& ●. ●. ●. ●& 98. 8.& I●● 19. 1● 14. 2 T●●. 4. 16. Forsaken of any one, So was job By his wife, neighbours, and friends, Forsaken of any one, So was Christ By his Disciples and countrymen, And an Angel from Heaven comforted him, Luk. 22. Evil spoken of So was David 2 Sam. 16. Michaiah, 2 Kin. 22. Elias, 1 King. 18. Act. 2. Lam. 3. 2 Kin. 6. Matth. 13. Evil spoken of So was job job 17. Prophets and Apostles, Evil spoken of So was God Himself by that wicked king jehoram Evil spoken of So was Christ By Jews, for whom he died, to save them, Derided and mocked, So was David By his wife, 2 Sam. 6. Isaac by Ishmael, Psal. 35. 1●. ●●. 11. ●●●. ●7. I●●●●. ●●. 12. 4. Gen. 19. Matth. 28. Psal. 123. 4. Derided and mocked, So was joseph By his brothers. job by his friends, Derided and mocked, So was Noah By his son, Gen. 9. Lot by his sons, job 16. 20. Derided and mocked, So was Prophets, Apostles, and Christ by the Jews, Derided and mocked, So was The Iewes In captivity by the Babylonians, Derided and mocked, So was God Himself by many wicked ones, The proud have had me greatly in derision:( saith Psal. 119. 51. sir. 7. 11. David) yet have I not declined from thy Law. The song and byword of the wicked, So was David Who Became as a proverb among wicked men, Ps. 69. 11. Ps. ●9. ●●.& ●1. ●. ●. 79. 4.& ●1. 11.& 44. 14.& 55. 13. Heb. 10. 1● The song and byword of the wicked, So was jeremiah Who was made As the song of wicked Lam. 5 6●. Ps. ●9. ●●.& ●1. ●. ●. 79. 4.& ●1. 11.& 44. 14.& 55. 13. Heb. 10. 1● men, The song and byword of the wicked, So was job Who was made As a tabret by wicked men, job 17. 6. Ps. ●9. ●●.& ●1. ●. ●. 79. 4.& ●●. 11.& 44. 14.& 55. 13. ●●●. 10. 13 The song and byword of the wicked, So was Paul Who was made As a gazing stock to wicked men, 1 Co●. 4. 9, 13. Ps. ●9. ●●.& ●1. ●. ●. 79. 4.& ●●. 11.& 44. 14.& 55. 13. ●●●. 10. 13 The song and byword of the wicked, So was Christ By the Jews at his death and passion, Matth. 28. Regard not then the Taunts of wicked men. Rewarded evil for good, So was The King By those that were bidden to the wedding, Mat. 23. 2. Rewarded evil for good, So was Caleb and Ioshua By the Israelites, who would have stoned them, Nū. 4. 10. Rewarded evil for good, So was David By his Adversari●s, because goodness was in him, Ps. 38 20. P●●● 9. 4, 5. 1 ●●●. 23. 12.& 25 21. T●●●. 17. 12. Rewarded evil for good, So was David By Saul, who sought to Ilay him, 1 Sam. 24. Rewarded evil for good, So was joh Who looking for good, evil came to him, joh 30. 26. Rewarded evil for good, So was Christ Who For his good works was often like to be joh. 10. 3●. Matth. 28. stoned, and at the last was by the Jews crucified, Rewarded evil for good, So was jeremiah By the Jews, who digged a pit for him, jer. 18. 20 D●s●med, So was David By his Companion and friend, Psa. 55. 12 Matth. 12. 14. ●. 27. 1. Mi●●● 4. 11. Act. 27 42 ●●●. 5●. ●0. 〈◇〉. 5. Psal. 31. ●3.& 5●. 3. ●● 71. 10. I●r. 11. 19. P●al 35. 4. ●●●. 6 4. Acts 5. ●3. M●●●h 6. 5. K●. 12. 10. ●●al. 2. 2.& ●3. 3. counseled against for evil, So was David By Ahithophels counsel to Absalom, 2 Sam. 16. counseled against for evil, So was Christ By The Jews counsel to take him, Mat. 26. 4. counseled against for evil, So was Paul By Vagabonds counsel to kill him, Act. 23. counseled against for evil, So was So were Gods people and hidden Ones, Psa. 83. 3. counseled against for evil, So was The Proph. And apostles often no entrap them, counseled against for evil, So was The Isr●elites By the Egyptains, that they might not multiply among them, Exo. 1. 10. Psa. 33. 10. entreated evil for doing Gods message, So was Moses and Aaron Who were threatened by Pharaoh, Ps. 21. 13. Exo. 10. 28 Act. 23. 12. Gal 2. 4. Psal. 2. 2. J●h. 12. 10. 1 P●t. 3. 12. Jer. 15. 15. entreated evil for doing Gods message, So was jeremiah& Micha●ah Who were Imprisoned by Pashur and Ahab, jer. 20. 1 Kin. 22. entreated evil for doing Gods message, So was Elias& Elisha Who were S●ught after to be slain by jezebel, Iehora●, 1 Kin. 19. 2 King. 6. entreated evil for doing Gods message, So was Amos Who was silented for Prophesying, Amos 7. 13 entreated evil for doing Gods message, So was Christ and the Apostles Whose lives were taken from them, Afraid of any, So was The Godliest Person he, and Christ himself he was not free, yet from their fears they were by God delivered: who then fears him, in fear shall be preserved▪ Isa. 57.11 Psal. 119. 10. 2 King. 6. 16. Isa●. 35. ●● Psal 34. 4. Hated& envited, So was The Godliest Person, and Christ himself of many, Hated& envited, So was The Godliest Yea, Godly men of this sin were not free, Hated& envited, So was The Godliest As by example you may plainly see. tried and proved of God, So was Abraham By Offering up Isaac his son, Gen. ●2. Psal. 81. 7. judge. 2. 22.& 1. 4. Act. 20. 19. 2 Chro. 32. 31. tried and proved of God, So was job By Troubles and afflictions, job 23. 10. tried and proved of God, So was Israel By Thunder and lightning, Exo. 20. 10 tried and proved of God, So was David By His Up u●rising and down lying, Psa. 139. 1. tried and proved of God, So was Peter By Christ on the water walking, Ma●. 14. 29 tried and proved of God, So was Philip By Christ By questioning, how the multitude should have feeding joh. 6. 5. tried and proved of God, So was Christ By Satans tempting, God permitting, Matth. 4. mat. 22. 35. As Gold God trieth all godly men, Psa. 66. 10. But in the end delivers them, 2 Pet. ●. 9. Ps. 55. 22. 1 Pet. 16. I●eb. 4. 15. Without a settled place to live in, So was Abraham Who lived Continually in Tents, Gen. 12. Without a settled place to live in, So was Isaac Who lived Continually in Tents, Gen. 14 67. Without a settled place to live in, So was Ia●●b Who lived Continually in Tents, Gen. 35. 21. Without a settled place to live in, So was Israel Who lived In booths and Tents, Lev. 23. 42. Psal. 107. 4. Jews. Without a settled place to live in, So was David Who lived A long time in Caves and Dens, 1 Sam. 24. Without a settled place to live in, So was Elias Who lived In the wilderness, 1 Kin. 1●. 1 Cor. 4. 11 Without a settled place to live in, So was Paul and others Who lived Having no certain places, Heb. 11. 38 Without a settled place to live in, So was Christ Who lived Not having to rest his head, Mat. 8. 20. Jam. 1. 1. Jews. Without a settled place to live in, So was S. John Who lived In the Isle of Patmos banished, Revel. 1. Regard not then the house that's made with hands, 2 Cor. 5. 1. Joh. 14. 2. Use. But seek the eternal buildings in the Heaven. Psa. 107. 4. Art thou So was Without a bed to lie upon? jacob Who lay on the ground going to Laban, Gen. 28. 11. Rechabites. jeremiah Who lay In mire in the dungeon, jer. 38. 6. Paul Who lay In chains in the prison, Acts 16. job Who lay In Ashes being his sheet, job 2. joseph Who lay In the Stocks hurting his feet, Psal. 105. 18. Lazarus Who lay At Dives door in the street, Luk. 16. Christ Who lay A ship-board in the ships stern, and oftentimes Luk. 8. 22. in the could mountain, So was Vexed by thy wife? jacob Whose wi●e said, Give me children, or else I die, Gen. 30. 1. job Whose wi●e bid him, Curse God, and die, job 2. 9. Moses Whose wi●e t●rmed him to be a bloody man, Exod 4. 25. David Whose wi●e despised, and derided him, 2 Sam. 6. Without Silver and Gold? Christ Who was beholden to a fish for money, Matth. 17. The Apo. And yet they wanted not in their Journey, Peter And John, when they healed the cripple man, Acts 3. read Phil. 4. 19. So was Weary of thy life? job Who wished himself strangled, job 7. 15. jeremiah Who wished himself unconceived, jer. ●8. ●4. Moses Who wished himself unburdened, Numb. 11. 11. Elias Who prayed God to take away his life, 1 King. 19. jonah 2. 4. The jailer Who would have murdered himself, Acts 16. 2 Cor. 1. 8. The Lords good grace them all yet so directed, Their sorrows overpast, their daies in peace were end●d. in famine? Abraham Gen. 12. Isaac, Gen. 26. jacob▪ Gen. 46. Luk. 4. 25. Abimelech Ruth 1. Elias, 1 Kin. 17. David, 2 Sam. 21. Act. 7. 11 Gen. 45. 7. Job 5. 20. Pr. ●0 3. The 〈◇〉 2 Kin. 8. Samaria, 2 Kin. 17▪ And others, Psal. 33. 19. Psal. 34. 10▪ Psa. 37. And the Lord relieved them in their wants, Psal. 37. 19, 25. Art thou So was In servitude? Abrahams posterity four hundred yeares, Gen. 15. 13. jacob With Laban twenty yeares, Gen. 31. 38. joseph Many yeares with Potiphar serving, Gen. 39. Moses forty yeares with the Priest of Midian, Act. 7. 30. Yet freedom at last was given them. In danger of waters? Noah Gen. 7. jonah, Chap. 1. The Israelites▪ Exod. 14. Peter Matth. 14. Paul, Acts 27▪ and Disciples, Matth. 8. And not any perished, but were all preserved, Psal. 107. 29. The Lord can fave from all danger, yea though a man went to sea without Art Psal. 18. 16. Wisd. 14. 4. Are thy So were Goods taken, and lands from thee? Lots And all restored to them again, Gen. 14. Iobs And all restored to them again, job 42. Naboths By Ahab and with-held by them, 1 King. 21. 2 Ki. 8. 3. 2 Sam. 16. job 1. 21. Mephibosh By Ziba and with-held by them, Friends thine enemies? Iob's Who spake eloquently, tormenting him, Job 19. 1. David's Who forsook, and reprehended him, Psal. 31. 11. Lam. 1. 2. Christ's Who lifted up his heel against him, Psal. 41. 9. joh. 1●. 14. Is thy So was life sought after? Elias By jezebel, 1 Kin. 19. Elishas by jehoram, 2 King. 6. Exod. 2. 15. Daniel's By Princes, Dan. 6▪ Davids by Saul, 1 Sam. 23. ● Sam. 25. 29. The Apostles And others by their Adversaries, Jer. 18. 23. Psal. 32. 33. Wife barren? Abimelech's Gen. 20. 8. and Elizabeth, Luk. 1. 7. Sarah G●n. 11. 30. and Hannah, 1 Sam. 1. Rachel Gen. 29. 31. and Rebekah, Gen. 25. 21. Manoah's judge. 13. 2. and The Shunamites, 1 King. 4. So was Or, These all by Praying obtained Children Psal. 68. 6. from God, married to another? David's Who was given to Phaltiel the son of Laish, 2 Sam. 3. 15. Samson's Who was given to his own Companion, judge. 14. 20. Art thou In a dungeon? The light of Mercy cannot be kept from thee. Iam. 1. 17. In Exile? Thou art not out of Gods Presence, he seeth thee. Psal. 139. 7. Despised of the world? God himself maketh account of thee. In poverty? God hath eternal riches for thee. Hated of the world? The Lord hateth it more by not giving Grace. strike with death? Thou hast promise with Simeon to depart in peace. Luke 2. 29. strike with death suddenly? It is to free thee from Mis●rie. fatherless? The Lord is thy helper. Psal. 10. 14. Spoken against by the mighty Ones? So was David by Princes. Psal. 119. 23. means and Second Causes used. ORdinary means are to be used of every man in his Calling carefully, and when they beat hand we must not look for any help without them: though the Lord be able to do what he will without means. joab when the Aramites 2 Sam. 10. 12. came against him, heartened his Souldiers, though they were but few, bidding them to be strong and valiant for their people, and for the Cities of their God, and then let the Lord do( saith he) what is good in his eyes. And our Saviour Christ avoucheth that to be flat tempting of God, for him to leap down from the pinnacle of the Temple to the ground, when as there was an ordinary way at hand to descend by stairs. L●st therefore we to our destruction contemn the use of Second Causes which are ordained for our good, God hath himself first used them in the worlds government, when as he might as easily do it by himself alone, as with Second Causes: I will, saith the Lord, hear the Heavens, and they shall hear the Earth, and the Earth shall hear the corn, the Wine, and the oil, and they shall hear jezreel: So for the converting of David, the Lord used the Prophet Nathan: And to deliver Peter out of Prison he sent an Angel: and to convert the Eunuch he sent Philip unto him: And thus the Lord doth, that he may honour his Creatures as Fellow-workers with him: And to that purpose he hath ordained meat and apparel, to cover the body and to maintain life: Phisitians and physic to recover health: honest exercises and sleep to conserve health: Princes and Magistrates to conserve public Peace: M●sters of Families for domestical government. Preaching and reading the Word, receiving the Sacraments, works of charity, Prayers, Discipline, &c. for exercising of Faith. These and such like means and Second Causes then are not to be contemned, or neglected, as though God would govern the world, or save us by himself without them: for so to do, were nothing else but to tempt God, and to hinder, as much as in us lieth, the execution of his Providence, which is forbidden by the Lord, saying, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God, which they do, who neglecting the means ordained by God, expect Miracles from Heaven. If Gods Providence be immutable, what need Second Causes,& c? He that shall be amended, shall so be without correction or admonition. The Answer is, that those things are separated which are to be joined together. God in his eternal counsel had ordained to make Davids will good of evil: and to incline the same from sin to repentance; had ordained also means, by which his will should be changed, namely Nathan. Used means to Cover their nakedness by sewing together of fig-leaves, and the Gen. 3. Lord by making them coverings of beasts skins. Abraham Preserve himself in time of famine, by going into Egypt, and in Gen. 10. time of fear, by saying Sarah was his Sister: and to preserve Chap. 20. peace, betwixt himself and Lot, their Herdsmen falling Chap. 13. at contention, gave Lot the choice of the Land. Abigail pacify the wrath of David, being kindled against Nabal her husband, by carrying a Present unto him. 1 Sam. 25. Bathsheba Get the kingdom to Solomon, as she was willed by Nathan. 1 King. 1. Benhadad Procure peace with the King of Israel by sending his servants 1 King. 20. unto him, with Sackcloth about their loins, and ropes about their necks, in sign of Humiliation. Used means to David Come into Saul's presence( to encounter with goliath) and that by saying unto the people, What shall be done to the man 1 Sam. 17. that killeth this Philistine? and to escape Saul, casting his Chap. 18. Javeling at him, he avoided him, and sending to take him, was let down at a window, and so escaped him. And to Chap. 19. know what he intended against him, absented himself from his Table, to hear by jonathan what he would say of him: And from time to time, being pursued by him, fled from one Chap. 20. place to another to hid himself fro● him. And to preserve his Father and Mother from Saul's wrath, being against Chap. 22. them kindled, he placed them with the King of Moab, and Chap. 23. to deliver himself from evil that might befall him by King Achish, knowing who he was, he feigned himself to be mad Chap. 21. before him: and going against the Philistines slay all of them, that not any of them might carry tidings thereof to the King, being supposed to have gone out against the Israelites by him: And to overcome the Philistines he turned behind them over against the Mulberry-trees, as the Lord 2 Sam. 5. had commanded him: And to confounded Abithophel he used Hushai's counsel. Chap. 17. Used means to Daniel Understand Nebuchadnezzar's dream, and that by praying, and Dan. 2. to find out the Truth of Susanna's false accusation, he put Chap. 13. her accusers asunder, examining them. The Disciples Preserve their brethren in time of Famine, and that by sending unto them according to their ability, wherewith the Lord Acts 11. had weekly blessed them. Elias Cut of the Prophets of Baal, by assembling them together under pretence of an Offering to be made to their gods, &c. 1 King. 18. And so to escape from Iezebol fled to Beersheba: and to free Chap. 19. himself from the hands of two of the Captaines sent to take him, he prayed for fire from Heaven to consume them: and 2 Kin. 1. to relieve himself in the time of famine, he lived with a widow a long time. 1 King. 17. Used means to Elisha Withstand the Kings Messenger sent to murder him, and that by willing his own Servant to take heed to shut the door against him. And to preserve himself from the Aramites sent to Dothan to take him, he prayed, and the Lord struck them with blindness, that they could not see him. And to defend the King of Israel from the King of Syria, he sent 2 King. 6. word unto him, that he should forbear to go to such and such like places, where the King of Syria lay in wait for him. Preserve the Jews from Hamans plot intended against them, Esther 1. and that by inviting the King to a banquet, and by praying. Chap. 5. Chap. 6. The Eunuch Understand the Word of God as well by reading, as also by Acts 8. taking of Philip into the Coach to interpret to him. Used means to Procure their peace with Ioshua, by pretending to come from a far country unto him, having on old shoes, bread that josh. 9. was mouldy, and garments worn. Gideon pacify the Ephraimites murmuring by mild answering. judge. 8. 1. Hezekiah heal his boil, by laying a bunch of dry figs thereon, and to Isai. 38. move King Ashur to remove his Army brought against him, 2 King. 20. he caused all the waters and fountains in the country to be 2 Chron. 32. stopped, so that he had not to drink for them. Ioshua espy out of what strength the city jericho was, by sending josh. 2. spies to learn the same: and to conquer A● he sent men by Chap. 8. night, willing them to lie in wait against them. Used means to jacob Defend himself from the rage of Esau his brother, by departing Gen. 27. for a time from his father, and being in service with Laban, to get to himself the particoloured sheep, he set peeled rods before them: and returning from Laban, to pacify the wrath Cha. 30. 30, 41 of his brother meeting him, sent a present to him: And to preserve his goods, if Esau had intended evil against him, he divided that he had into several companies, whereby Chap. 32. some might escape of them: And then meeting his brother Chap. 33. humbled himself unto him, and above all by prayer escaped him. joseph Bring his brethren to remembrance that they had done him wrong, and that by reprehending and imprisoning them, Gen. 44. their Conscience thereby accusing them: And to be freed Chap. 45. out of prison entreated Pharaoh's Butler to remember him: Chap. 40. And to preserve the Egyptians in time of famine, in the Chap. 41. 18. plentiful yeares he provided for them. Iothan Preserve himself from Abimelech, and that by flying. judge. 9. Used means to joah Reconcile Absalom unto David by a cunning woman, and that 2 Sam. 14. the Israelites might be valiant in battle against the Assyri Chap. 10. 11. Assyrians▪ he encouraged them. Save themselves in the storm on the waters, and that by jonah 1. casting out their wears, lightning their ships, still endeavouring, Act. 27. calling on the Lords Name by praying. joseph Preserve Christ by flying, as the Angel willed him. Matth. 2. 14. jeroboam Escape from Solomon, by absenting himself from him. 1 King 11. Used means to Iehosheba Preserve joash from Athaliah going about to kill him, and that by keeping him and his Nurse in her Bed-chamber, as also 2 King. 11. hiding him in Gods house the space of six yeares. jehu Destroy Baals prophets under pretence of a Sacrifice that he 2 King. 11. had to do for them, to their God Baal, who being assembled, slay both young and old, great and small. jethro Ease Moses of the burden upon him, in judging of the people, and hearing of Causes between them, and that by giving him Exod. 18. counsel to provide men of courage to rule over them. Used means to jephthah espy out the Ephraimites from the Gileadites, and that by making judge. 12. them to pronounce the word Shibboleth. The Israelites Preserve their first-born from the Angel slaying the Egyptians, Exod. 12. 22. and that by striking the Lintels of their doors with blood, as God had commanded; and being at the first overcome of the Benjamites, they afterwards lay in Ambushment, &c. and judge. 20. so prevailed against them: And being stung with fiery Serpents, looking on the Brazen Serpent, a representation of Numb. 21. Christ, they were healed. Used means to Moses Cover the Egyptian slain by him, by hiding him in the sand, and to escape from Pharaoh, fled into the Land of Midian: and Exod. 12. to have his hands stayed up, called Aaron and Hur to stay them, during which time the Israelites prevailed against the Chap. 17. Amalekites: And to keep the Israelites from the Mount, he set marks: And to search the land of Canaan, he sent spies: Chap. 19. And to preserve the Israelites from Korahs destruction, he Numb. 13. willed them to depart from among them: And to stay Gods Numb. 16. wrath, he often prayed to God for them. Preserve him for a time by hiding him, and after by putting Exod. 1. him into an ark, &c. to see what would become of him. Michal Preserve David from Saul's Messengers, saying that David was sick, and laying an image in his bed, while the Messengers 1 Sam. 18. returned to Saul, he escaped. Used means to Noah Make the ark, as God commanded, and therein received all kind of Creatures to increase the world again. Gen. 6. Nathan Move David to confess his sins, by a Parable told him. 2 Sam. 12. Nehemiah B●ild the house of God, by Letters from Artaxerxes gotten. Nehem. 2. Obadiah Preserve the Lords Prophets, and that by hiding them. 1 King. 18. The Proph. Make Ahab judge himself, by a Parable told him. 1 King. 20. Pharaoh Provide for the dear yeares, as joseph willed him. Gen. 41. Preserve themselves and their cattle, as many as feared God, by Exod. 9. departing out of the fields from the hail that destroyed all that there remained. Used means to Paul Preserve himself from the Jews, and that by being let down Act. 9. at a window: and being at caesarea was sent by his brethren Chap. 14. to Tarsus: fled from Lystra to Derbe, Cities of Lycaonia: said that he was a roman, and thereby escaped whipping: Chap. 22. 25. cried out that he was a Pharisee, and so w●s delivered, being accused falsely: Sent his s●sters son to the Centurion to acquaint Chap. 23. 17. him with the conspiracy of certain wicked men, and thereby Chap. 27. 17. 31. 38. escaped them, the captain causing two Centurions with two hundred souldiers to convey him: And being in danger 2 Cor. 11. 32. at Sea, followed the counsel before told him by an Angel. Used means to Rebekah Get the blessing unto jacob, by making him savoury meat to Gen. 27. carry to his Father, to change his garments; and to preserve him from Esau, sent him to Padan Aram. Rachel obtain Children natural means by Marriage, Gen. 29. obtain Children artificial means by Mandrakes, Chap. 30. obtain Children Godly means by Prayers. 14, 15. Rahab preserve herself and hers, and that by entertaining enemy's josh. 2. spies, as also by tying a cord at her window, as she was willed Chap. 6 by the spies which she harboured. Used means to Ruth Relieve herself and Naomi her mother in law, and that by Ruth 2. gleaning ears of corn; as also followed the counsel of Naomi, to get Boaz to her husband. Chap. 4. Saul Procure the love of certain wicked men speaking against him, 1 Sam. 10, and that by not replying unto them, making as though he heard not the words spoken by them. Samuel Defend himself from Saul, fearing him, being sent to anoint 1 Sam. 16. David to be King, and that by taking an Heifer with him to sacrifice, as God commanded him. Shechemites Preserve themselves from Ishmael, going about most treacherously to slay them, and that by telling him that they had jer. 41. 7. treasures in the fields hidden, &c. and so escaped him. Used means to The Steward maintain himself after his dismission, his Stewardship being Luke 16. t●ken from him, and that by causing those that were indebted to his Master to set down lesser sums then they owed him. Urijah Preserve himself from King jehoiakim, and that by flying into Egypt from him, from whence the wicked king notwithstanding jer. 26. sent for him, and slay him. by putting them into a well, spreading ground corn over the covering, and so they escaped 2 Sam. 17. the Messengers of Absalom sent to take them. The Woman Deliver her city and the people from joab pursuing Sheba: and 2 Sam. 20. that by causing Sheba's head to be cut off, and given to joab, as he commanded. Be cured of her bloody issue: and she of Canaan to have her Mark 5. daughter cured by coming to Christ, together with many Matth. 15. other diseased persons. Used means to Christ Pres●rve himself from the Pharisees, consulting to destroy him, Matth. 12. and that by departing from them; and from the Jews seeking Chap. 14. 13. to kill him, by walking in galilee not in Jury, as also by going joh. 7. 1. to the Feast of Tabernacles, not openly but privily, walking Chap. 11. 54. secretly: As likewise by going from them into the Chap. 8 59. wilderness, and sometimes by a ship waiting on him, and Chap. 11. 54. willed his Disciples to beware of men, and that, if they were Mark 3. 9, 7. persecuted in one city, they should fly into another to save Chap. 10. 39. themselves, and counseled them to be wise as Serpents, but Matth. 10. withall to be innocent as Doves. Spiritual Means Are to be used to obtain Salvation, and they are Faith, which Rom. 10. 17. cometh by Hearing, Hearing by Preaching, after which followeth Chap. 8. Obedience, Sanctification and Justification by Christ. Titus 1. To this is to be added to make Election sure, verity with Act. 13. 48. Faith, virtue with Knowledge, with Knowledge Temperance, Eph. 2. 10. with Temperance Patience, &c. 2 Pet. 1. 5. The Lord appointed means, that his banished are not utterly expelled. 2 Sam. 14. 24. Secret things belong unto the Lord: to man revealed. Deut. 29. 29. victory is of God: yet the horse for battle is prepared. Prov. 21. 31. That provideth not for his own, and especially for them of his household, he hath 2 Cor. 8. 21. denied the Faith, and is worse then an infidel, saith the Apostle S. Paul. 1 Tim. 5. 8. Gen. 30 30. Use. We may learn hereby not to contemn Second Causes, abusing thereby Gods Providence: His revealed will is, that we use ordinary remedies, leaving the issue to him, who will dispose thereof to his good will and pleasure. Amen. Of Lots: A means used for divers ends. LOts are a part of Gods Worship, which are to be used in matters of weight, to the deciding of doubts, and ending of strifes and contentions: and so speaketh Solomon, saying, The lot causeth contentions to cease, and parteth between Prov. 18 18. the mighty. There are three sorts of Lots, of which there is but one Good. There is a Civill Lot: a Sporting Lot: and a Divining Lot. The Civill is only Good, which is for ending of Controversies, dividing of 1 Sam. 20. Lands, discovery of Malefactours. josh. 18. 6. The Sporting is used for some unnecessary ends, as to help a man decayed, by making gain by game, &c. The Divining is by opening a book, o● casting a die, to declare good or bad success, &c. and such like. By lot Achan was sound out by Ioshua to have the execrable things. josh. 7. Ioshua divided the Land to the Is●aelites: The souldiers Christs garments. Chap. 18. Matth. 17. By lot jonathan was found to have tasted hony: and jonah of sin to be guilty. 1 Sam. 14 Ion 1. Saul was chosen to be King of Israel: and mathias to be an Apostle. 1 Sam. 10. All. 1. The Goat was chosen for a sin▪ offering: and the Levites brought the Levit. 16. 10. offering. Nehem. 10. 34. Zacharias burnt incense: and one of ten were from captivity taken. Luk. 1. 9, Neh. 11. 1. The lot is cast into the lap: but the whole disposing thereof Prov. 16. 33. is of the Lord. read judge. 20. 9. Esth. 3. 7. Chap. 9. 24. Numb. 26. Chap. 33. 54. Of Prayer. PRayer is the Messenger of the faithful Soul, being the Request of an humble and sanctified heart, together with thanksgiving offered up by the spirit of Prayer, as a special service unto God, in the Name of Jesus Christ, in the behalf of ourselves and others, with assurance to be heard, in what we pray for according to the will of God revealed in his Word, the Spirit making request for 1 Tim. 4. 8. us with groans in the heart unspeakable, the Lord accepting the inward mourning and desire of the heart for a Cry, as we see in Moses, who prayed to God in Exod. 14. 15. Psal. 119 1●5. Lam. 2. ●● sir. 21. ●.& 35. 16. Ecclu●. ●●. ●7. Exod. 32. 10. I●r. 7. 16. Chap. 1●. 14. the behalf of the Israelites, the Lord answering him, saying, Why criest thou unto me? when ●s Moses indeed cried not in voice, but in the earnest affection of his heart: And is of such force, as that it goeth through the clouds, and ceaseth not until it come unto the Lord, and will not depart, until the most High have respect thereunto; yea, it doth as it were bind the Lord, and hinder him from executing judgements, overcoming him that overcometh all things: as we see by the Lo●ds own words unto Moses▪ saying, Suffer me▪ that my wrath may wax hot against them:( to wit) the israelites, and to consume them, and I will ●ake of thee a mighty people. And again, by the Angels words unto Lot, saying, hast thee, get thee hence: for we can do nothing till thou be gone, the Lord being Gen. 19. ●5. then about to destroy sodom. And is truly, Consolatio fl●ntium, Cura dolentium,& Sanitas aegro●orum: A Comfort for them that mourn: the Joy of the sorrowful: and Health for those that are sick; being the chiefest remedy for every kind of M 〈…〉, and the only Odours that were offered upon the golden Altar before the Throne spoken of in the Revelation. Revel. 3. 8. Prayers are of two sorts: mental: Prayers are of two sorts: and Prayers are of two sorts: vocal. mental, consisting in the Heart without voice, such was Moses. Exod. 14. 15. vocal, conceived in the Heart,& pronounced with the tongue, such was Christs. Heb. 5. 7. In Prayer these three things are to be seriously meditated upon: Eccles. 5. 1. Gods majesty, from whence ariseth humility in spirit, Gods Promises, from whence ariseth Confidence to be heard, Our own vileness, from whence ariseth fervency of Affection. In Prayer also these Properties are to be observed: Thy Prayer must be secret without ostentation, and zealous without doubting. Thy Prayer must be brief without much babbling, and constant without intermission. By Prayer Abraham Obtained favour in the sight of God for Ishmael his son▪ Gen. 17. Chap. 18. Chap. 20. Chap. 14. Had saved sodom, had there been found therein ten just men: Was heard for Abimele●hs wife, and others being barren, so that they bare again; and had a child by Sarah, when she was past childe-bearing. Abrahams Servant did meet with Rebekah according to his Petition. Gen. ●4. 2 Chron. 13. 2 Chron. 14. Act. 10. 5, 3●. Abijah overcame Ieroboams Army, the Lord sighting for him. King Asa subdued Zerah, having ten hundred thousand men. Cornelius was willed to sand for Peter to preach the Gospel to him. The Apostles and Disciples Had the Holy Ghost given, cast out devils, raised the dead; Act. 4. Cha. 16. Healed all kind of diseases, and the Lepers cleansed. Matth. 10. ●●. Daniel Obtained wisdom to interpret Nebuchadnezzars dream: Dan. 2. An Angel expounded to him the seventy weekes vision: Shewed him the building again of Jerusalem, with the anointing Chap. 9. 2●. and death of Christ Jesus then to come. David Understood of Sauls coming to Keilah to take him. 1 Sam. 23. 2 Sam. 24. Ch. 17. 23 Ch. 15. 31. Psal. 56. 9. Turned away the wrath of God kindled against him. Brought to nought Ahithophels counsel given to Absalom. Often-times put his enemies to flight, fighting with them. By Prayer Elias Stayed the rain three yeares and six moneths, and again obtained rain, so as the earth yielded her fruits. Iam. 5. 17. 1 Kin. 7. 21. Chap. 17. 12. 2 Kin. 1. Raised from death to life the widow of Zarephaths son. Commanded fire from Heaven to consume his burnt offering with the two captaines and their fifties sent to take him. Elisha Had the Spirit of Elias doubled upon him: Procured bears to destroy the mocking Children: Raised from death to life the Shunamites 2 King. 2. Chap. 4. Chap. 6. son: Had the eyes of his Servant opened, so that he saw Mountaines full of Horses, and Chariots of fire round about him, and smote the Aramites with blindness coming to take him Hagars Eyes were opened to espy a Well, her son only crying. Gen. 21. Hezekiah was delivered from Ashur, and his health restored to him. Isai. 37. 2 King. 18. Gen. 3●. 11. J●n. 2▪ 10 Dan. 3. Cha. 6. Act. 2. Man. 8. 24. 2 Ki. 13. 2 Chr. 33. Act. 5. Cha. 16. jacob Was delivered from the wrath of Esau: jonah out of the fishes belly: The three Children from the fiery furnace: Daniel from the Lions den: Ionah's and Paul's mariners from the danger of the seas: joseph and jehoahaz, Manasseh, and Silas, with Paul, Peter, and others, out of Prisons. Isaac obtained a son( to wit) jacob: Rachel had joseph: Leah Issachar: Zacharias John: Manoah Samson: Anna Samuel: and Elisha one for the Shunamite woman. Ioshua commanded the Sun, and it abode in the midst of heaven. J●sh. 10. Isaiah brought back the Sun ten degrees in Ahaz dial again. 2 King. 20. josiah was delivered from the plagues threatened to be brought on him. 2 Kin. 22. Ch. 13. 12. jehoahaz was delivered from the Syrian: jehoshaphat from the men of Aram. 2 Chro. 18. Ch. 20. 22 jeremiah was told what the people should do being in captivity in Babylon, jer. 4●. 4. Chap. 7. 16. Chap. 11. 14. Chap 14. 11. as also stayed the wrath of the Lord several times, being kindled against them; yea, so as the Lord willed him at times not to pray for them. jacob and Iabez got to each of them a several blessing. G●. 32. 26. 1 Ch. 4 10 Pacified the wrath of the Lord being kindled against his friends, for not job 42. 8. speaking that which was right unto him. As also had his captivity under Satan taken from him, and a double portion of what he lost given him. The Israelites Being in bondage to the Egyptians were delivered; being in Exod 3 7. judge. 3. Ch. 4. Chap. 6. Nū. ●1. 1 Sa. 8. servitude to Aram, Moab and Canaan were redeemed: and in battle against the Canaanites and others prevailed: As also obtained Saul to be king over them, albeit the Lord was angry for the request made to him. Just Lot saved Zoar: the cities of sodom burnt with fire from Heaven. Gen. 19. Moses Moved the Lord to take away certain plagues brought on the Egyptians: Exod 8. 4. Ch. 9. 29. Chap. 1●. 16. Deut. 9. ●0. Stayed the wrath of the Lord kindled against Aaron: delivered the Israelites through the read Sea, from drowning, obtained the presence of the Lord to go before them, and saw part of Exod. 14. Chap. 15. Chap. 17. Numb. 14. 20. Chap. 16. 45. Ch. 32. Num. 12. 13.& 11. 2 Exod. 15. 15. Cha. ●1. 6. Numb. 21. 8. Gods presence going before him: Stayed many evils often threatened to be brought on the Israelites, prevailed against the Amalekites, by holding up his hands, during the time that Israel fought against them: Healed miriae of the leprosy wherewith she was strike: had a three shewed him whereby bitter waters were sweetened, and was willed to erect a brazen serpent, whereby those that were stung with fiery serpents were healed. The Ninevites were delivered from the plagues threatened against them. jonah 2. Nehemiah obtained Letters from the King Artaxerxes to pass to Jerusalem. Nehem. 1. The Prophet Caused the Lord to take away the grasshoppers, and other such like Amos 7. 1 Kin. 13. plagues brought on the Israelites: and restored Iero●oams hand, being dried up, by stretching it out to lay hold on him. By Prayer Peter raised Tabitha: Paul Eutychus, falling down by sleeping. Act. 4. Ch. ●0. Samson had water out of a Tooth, and strength renewed him. judge. 15 Ch 16 28 Samuel procured thunder, to punish Israel, and the Philistines. 1 Sam. 12. Ch. 7. 9. Solomon obt●ined wisdom, as also had granted his Petition. 1 Kin. 3. Ch. 8. Ch. 9. Sick Persons The Centurions servant, The Canaanites daughter, and lunatic Matth. 10. Chap. 9. Chap. 8. Chap. 15. Ch. 7. Luk. 17. Ch. 7. Chap. 2●. Mark 5. persons were healed, men blind received sight, a man stammering and deaf, was made to hear and speak, Lepers were cleansed, certain persons being dead were to life restored, one thief of the two crucified was saved. The devils had leave of Christ to enter into the Swine, being cast out of the possessed, and not any that came to Christ were denied. sins are forgiven: the faithful shall save the sick. 1 Joh. 5. 16. wisdom is obtained; and all things are sanctified Mat. 11. 13 Ja. 1. 5. 1 Tim. 4. 5. So much Prayer availeth with the Lord, if it be servant. job 35. 13 Ja. 5. 16. Luk. 11. 13 The Lord heard Davids Petition and Prayer when he cried. Psal. 32. 6 Mat. 21. 22 Psa 6. 9. Ps. 102. 17 Christ saith ask, and it shall be given you: seek, and you shall find: knock, Matth. 7. Chap. 6. 23. job 6. 23. and it shall be opene● unto you. For whosoever seeketh, findeth: asketh, receiveth: and to him that knocketh, it shall be opened. And again he saith: If two shall agree on earth upon any thing whatsoever ye shall desire, it shall Matth. 18. 19. Cha. 21. 22. Mark 11. 24. Ja. 1. 6. Chap. 5. 15. Rom. 12. 12. be ●iven, &c. And where two or three be gathered together in my Name, I will be in the mids● of them. And whatsoever ye shall ask in Prayer, i● you believe, you shall receive the same. Use. Eph. 6. 18. Luk. 18. 1. Seeing Prayer is so available with God, let us follow the Apostles Rule, Pray 1 Th●s 5. 17, 18. continually, and in all things give thankes; remembering the wise mans Exhortation, Before thou prayest, prepare thy soul, and be not as one that tempteth God. Ecclus. 18. 22. The Apostles Continually in the Temple all together with one accord, Luk. 24. 53. with women, and with Mary the Mother of Jesus; as also Act. 1. 14. at the continual election of their Deacons. Chap. 6. 5, 6. Anna In the Temple night and day, being a widow aged. Luk. 2. 37. The Church Fo● Poter, Paul and Silas when they were imprisoned. Act. 13. Ch. 16. Daniel Three times a day: and King David seven. Dan. 6. 13. Ps. 55. 18 Isaac In the fields walking: Ioshua until the evening. Gen. 24. Josh 7. 6. until the going down of the sun from her rising: Exod. 17. 12. And at the going forth of the ark, and at her resting. Numb. 10. 35. Peter Upon the House: The Philippians by the Rivers. Act. 10. 16. Ch. 16▪ 1● Prayed Paul Three times that he might not be exalted through his Revelations: Act. 16. 16 2 Cor. 12. 7. Act. 14. 23. Chap. 16. ●3. Chap. 21. 5. Rom. 1. 9. Phil. 1. 1 Thes. 1. Ch. 3. 1●. Col. 1. Chap. 4. 2. 1 Tim. 2. 8 Rom. 15. 30. Ephes. 6. 16. 2 Thes. 3. Phil. 1. 19. 2 Cor. ●. 11. Heb. 13. 18. and with Barnabas for the Elders with women and children on the shore kneeling; and always for the Romans, Philippians, Thessalonians, Colossians, and Philemon: For Timothy night and day: and for those that forsook him earnestly: As also entreated the Romans to pray for him, that he might be delivered ●n Iude● from the disobedient men; and the Colossians and the Ephesians that God might open to him the door of utterance: and the Thessalonians that the word might have fr●e passage: and the Philippians, that Christ might be preached all manner of ways: and the Hebrews, that in all things he might have a good Conscience: and Timothy for all men in authority, and all 1 Tim. 2. 1 Thes. 5. 17. persons else to pray continually. Samuel All the night long for Israel without ceasing. 1 Sam. 15. Ch. 12. 23 Steven For his persecutors, even when they stoned him. Act. 7. 60. Prayed Christ In the wilderness: at his baptizing: all night in the mountain: Matth 4. 1.& 14. 23. L●●●. 21. Chap. 6. 12. Chap. 9 18. Chap. 11. ●. Chap. 22. Mark 1. 35. Matth. 26. 19. joh. 17. 1 Chap. 11. 41. Luk. 22. 32 joh. 17. 20. Chap. 16. 26. Luk 2●. ●4. Hel. 7. 25. Ch. 5. 7. Ch. 9. 24 Matth. 6. 7. Ch. 9. 38. Luk. 1●. 1. Ch. ●1. ●6. Joh. 7. 9. alone by himself kneeling: with sweat like drops of blood from his face trickling. At his raising of Lazarus from death, and for all them that should live in him by faith: for Peter that his faith might not fail him: and that his Father would glorify him with all that believed in him. for his enemies that crucified him: and now in Heaven for those that belong to him: willing his Apostles to pray for them that hurt them: And all in secret shutting their doors to pray unto him, as he taught them. In the Lords Prayer, whether we regard the brevity, Perfection, authority, Method, efficacy, or Nec●ssitie of it; it is to be believed that no Saint Matth. 6. 8. or Angel is able to match the Flat-forme thereof, being large for matter, sh●rt for Phrase, and sweet for Order. OUr Father, By right of Creation, Merit of mercy, gracious Provisour. Which art in Heaven: The seat of thy majesty, The inheritance of thy children, The kingdom of bliss. Hallowed be thy Name: By the thoughts of our hearts, By the words of our mouths, By the works of our hands. Thy kingdom come: Of Grace to inspire us, Of Power to defend us, Of glory to crown us. Thy will be done, In weal and woe, In fullness and want, In life and death. In earth as it is in heaven: In us as it is in thine Angels, Willingly, readily, faithfully, Without murmur, let, deceit. Give us this day our daily bread: For the nourishing of our bodies For the feeding of our souls, For the relief of our necessities. And forgive us our debts, whereby thou art dishonoured, Our neighbours wronged, ourselves endangered. As we forgive our debters: That have hurt us in our bodies, hindered us in our goods, Wronged us in our good name. And led us not into temptation: Of the wicked world, The enticing flesh, or The envious devil. But deliver us from evil: Forgive that is past, Remove that is present, Prevent what is to come. For thine is the Kingdom: To rule and govern all, To command and do all, In all, by all, All in all. Now and for ever. At this present, In this world, In the world to come. Amen. As thou sayest, so is it; As thou promisest, so it shall be: As we pray, So be it Lord. sin what it is. sin it is the Corruption or rather the deprivation of the first integrity of Man, as also a falling or turning from God, binding the offender by the curse of Gods Justice to undergo the punishment. And properly of itself it is not any thing, but rather the absence of that good, which ought to be in the Creature, being a fleering enemy before the action, a sweet person in the action, and a stinging serpent after the action; and may well be termed a poison, in that it poisoneth all parts of a Man: to wit, The Head with lightness, The heart with falsehood, The Eyes with adultery, The Tongue with blasphemy, The Hands with oppression, The Body with intemperance, beauty with wantonness: Strength with violence: Will with wilfulness: Learning with dissension: Devotion with superstition: Religion with treason. And if there be greater gifts in men it poisoneth them with pride, putting Cantharides into the oil pot: If meaner, it poisons them with hypocrisy, putting Colocinthis into the porridge pot: So that there is venenum& exitium; poison and death. sin is before God execrable, detestable, and intolerable: Execrable, because it repented the Lord that he had made Man. Detestable, because God destroyed dumb Creatures for the sin of Man. intolerable, because God spared not his own Son for the offence of Man. All sorts of sin are comprehended In the word iniquity in which is includ●● natural corruption. In the word Transgression in which is includ●● every actual sin. In the word sin in which is includ●● presumptuous sin. sins are of three sorts: Imputative from Adam, by whose sin we are all guilty of death. Rom. 5 17. Rom. 7. 18. job 14 4. Rom. 7. 11. 14. Rom. 5. 14. 1 joh. 3. 4. Gen. 6. 5. original from our corruption, consisting in enmity to Good, and proneness to evil. actual from our life, either by omitting or committing of Good, Evil. By Omission of duty required inwardly in the understanding, will. Matth. 15. 19. By Commission of evil forbidden outwardly in word, or dead. Isai. 3. 8. Which to do is a particular breach of Gods law, leaving a stain in the Soul, which polluteth the sinner, and disposeth him to further evil, in that it hardeneth the heart, gnaweth the Conscience, fighteth against the Soul, maketh ashamed, procureth plagues on Body and Soul with death eternal: Stipendium peccatimors Rom. 6. 23. est: The Reward of sin is death. sin against the Holy Ghost. sin against the Holy Ghost, is the resisting of the known Truth, not of infirmity for tear or favour, but of meet malice and hatred. Such are they that the Apostle speaketh of: The steps unto which sin are these: 1. Presumption Heb. 6. 4. Chap. 10. 26. of Gods mercy: 2. despair of forgiveness: 3. An impugning of the Truth, more freely to sin, envying others spiritual good: 4. obstinacy in sin: And lastly, to die without repentance for sin. Mans sin compared with the Devils sin. THe Devil sinned once and no more; Man sins daily more and more. The Devil sinned before the Stipend of sin; Man after notice and experience of sin. The devil persisted in malice being of God rej●cted; Man continues in hatred against God being by him recalled. The Devils heart was heardened against God that punished him; Man is obdurate against God that assumeth him. A Catalogue of several sins committed, as well by the godly, as by the wicked. Sinned AN●els ambitiously, Iude 6. Adam distrustfully, Gen. 3. Abraham suspiciously, Gen 20 11 Abimelech desperately, jung. 7. 54 Abner perfidiously, 2 Sam 2. 8. Absa●om aspiringly, 2 Sam 18. Achan execrably, josh. 7. 24. Adoni-bezek tyrannically, judge. 1. 7. Abah greedily, 1 King. 21. Ahabs prophets seducingly, 1 Kin. 22. Ahaz sac●●legiously, 2 Kin. 16 Ahithophels inveighingly, ● Sam. 17. Amnon libidinously, 2 Sam 13. Amaziah inconsidently, Amos●. ●0 Ananias l●asingly, Act. 5. 5. Apostles disdainfully, Matth. 20. Athenians superstitiously, Act. 17. 21. Balaam ●v●ritiously, Num. 22. Balak malevolently, Num. 23. Baasha conspiringly, 1 Kin. 15. Belshazzar ca●owsingly, Dan. 5. Bar●abas dissemblingly, Gal 2. 13. Bethshemites presumpt●ously, 1 Sam. 16. Barbatrans rash●y, Act 28 4. Benhadad boastingly, 1 Kin 20. Cain murtherously, Gen. 4. caesar, and Cyrenius Luke 2. 1. Corinthians contentiously, Cor. 1. Cham defamatively, Gen. 9. Christs countrymen malignantly, Mat. 13. 57 His kinsmen contumelicusly, Mar. 3. 21. Darius injustly, Dan. 6. 9. David secretly, 2 Sam. 12. His son openly, 2 Sam. 16. Demas regressively, ●. Tim. 4. Disciples murmuringly, joh. 6. 61. Dives unmercifully, Luk. 16. Doog Cinically, 1 Sam. 22 Eli connivently, 1 Sam. 2. Er: Onan wickedly, Gen. 38. 7. Egyptians oppressingly, Exod. 1. Esau pertinatrously, Gen. 28. 8. Ephraimites scandalizingly, judge. 12. 4. Elias passionately▪ Elymas ●epugnantly, Act 13. 8. Euticus sluggishly, Act 20. Elder brother intractably, Luk. 15. 28 Felix ●varitiously, Act. 24. 26 Festus scurrilously, Act. 26. 24 Gileadites expulsively, judge. 11. 2 Gideon opprobriously, judge. 8. 18 goliath ●lasphemously, 1 Sam. 17. Gehezi covetously, 2 King 5. Gada●ens contemptuously, Mar. 5. 17. Galathians defectively, Gal. 1 6. Hebr. Servant letigiously, Exod 2. 13 Hazael suffocately, 2 Kin. 8. Hananiah rebelliously, jer. 28. 10. Hezekiah unthankfully, 2 Chro. 32. Hoshea treacherously, 2 King. 17. And Haman maliciously, Esth. H●rod vaingloriously, 3. Act. 12. 23. Hymeneus and A●exander Revoltingly, and Heretically, 1 Tim. 1. 20. 2 Tim. 2. 18 jacob Deceitfully, Gen. 7. jonadab Abettorily, ● Sam. 13. 5. josiah unadvisedly, 2 Chron. 35. Iohoash ungratefully, 2 Chron. 24. jephthah votarily, judge. 11. 39. His brethren expulsively, judge. 11 7. jehoshaphat confederately, 2 Chron. 20. Ishmael floutingly, Gen. 21. 10. Israelites ●bominably, Ezek. 8. 6. jeroboam crastily, 1 King. 12. jehoram idolatrously, 2 Chron. 21. joab treacherously, 2 Sam. 3. jonah disobediently, jonab 1. 1. I●b's friends reproachingly, job 19. 3. job: jeremiah queremoniously job 5. jer. 5. judah feignedly, jer. 3. 10. Ishmael assassinately, jer. 41. 1, 6. Iewes resistantly, Act. 18. 6. Iupiters priest superstitiously, Act. 14. 13. Iannes and jambres repugnantly, Exod. 7. 11. 2 Tim. 3. 8. james: John aspiringly, Mar. 10. 35. Kings of Nat. obdurantly, josh. 9. Ch. 11. King Asa imprudently, 2 Chron. 16. King Ammon villainously, 2 Sam. 10. King Ahaz truculently, 2 King. 16. konrah reb●lliously, Numb. 16. Lot● judah incestuously, Gen. 19. Lamech ●trotiously, Gen. 4. 23. The Leper Mar. 1. 44. The Lawyer captiously, Luk. 10. 25. Moses: Aaron incredulously, Numb. 20. 12. Menahem ●rutishly, 2 King. 15. Manass●h ●anguinolently, 2 King. 21. Noab eoriously, Gen 9. 20 Nabal chu●lishly,. 1 Sam. 25. Nimrod insolently, Gen. 11. Nahesh reproachfully, 1 Sam. 11. Naaman discontentedly, Gen. 11. Nebuchadacz. ●stently, Dan. ●. Old world dissolutely, Gen. 6. 2. Old prophet seducingly, 1 King. 1●. patriarchs enviously, Gen. 37. 4. Pharach obstinately, Exod. 7. Ch. 8. Proph. seduced negligently, 1 King. 13. Pha●. sorcerers prestigiously, Exod. 3. Philistines perniciously, judge. 16. 24. Pashur rigorously, jer. 20 2. Philosophers caluminately, Act. 17. 18. prodigal riotously, Luk. 15. Phygellus and relapsively, 2 Tim. 1. 15. Hermogenes Pharisees wilfully, Matth. 12. 24. Priests and consultingly, and Matth 26. 5. Scribes abettorily, Chap. 28. 13. Peter witting, Matth 26. 57. People clamourously, Mar. 15 8. Pilate Paul Philemons serve Reuben His young men Rich man Samson Sptes of Moses Solomon Simeon and Levi Samuels sons Saul Sheba Shemaiah Shech●m Shechemites Shimei Simon Lepet Simon Magus Simon Peter samaritans Scribes Sadduces and Captains Sodomites Sceva The evil servant Sanballat and Tobiah Theudas Sinned wrongfully, Matth. 17. 1 Tim. 1. 13 Philem. 9. Gen. ●9. ignorantly, ●ugitively, lightly, inconsiderately, adulator●ly, 1 Kin. 12. secur●ly, Luk. 12 17 judge. 16. Deu 2. 28 1 Kin. 11. lasciviously, slanderously, wantonly, cruelly, and furiou●ly, Gen. 4●. 7 extortingly, 1 Sam 8. 1 Sam. 30. 2 Sam. 20 jer. 29. 32 Gen. 35. judge. 9 27 2 Sam. 16. Luk 7. 40. Act. 8. 18. Luk. 22. Luk. 9. 52. Luk. 11. 53 foolishly, insurrectively, rebelliously, contamina●ely, imprecatorily, maledictor●ly, disdainfully, hypocri●c●lly, negatively, contemptuously, contradictorily, prohibitorily, Act. 4. 18. bestially, Gen. 19. Act. 19. 14 unadvisedly, inexurably, Matth. 18. equivocately, and distractingly, Nehem. 6▪ boastingly, Act. 5. 36. And Thomas One thief Uzzah Uzziah Zedekiah Z●ha Zebah and Zalmunna Zacharias Hevah Athaliah adulteress Delilah Hagar Hamans wife Herodias Ieroboams wife Iorams wife Iobs wife Levites wife Moses wife M●riam Mi●hal Magdalene Potiphars wife P●ninnah Rachel Sarah Sa●sons wife Solomons wi●es Tamar The witch Saphira jezebel Lets wife incredulously, joh. 20. 24. Luk 23. 2 Sam 6. 2 Chron. 26. jer. 32. 2 Sam. 16. revilingly, preposterously, unlawfully, viciously, deceitfully, carpingly, judge. 8. 10. inconfidently, Luk. 1. 20. Gen. 3. 2 Kin. 11. primarily, massacringly, adultero●sly, ●lluringly, judge 16. Gen. 16. ●sth. 5. 14. Matth 14. 1 King. 14. 2 Chron. 22. job 2. 9. judge. 19. contemptuously, abettorily, maliciously, disquisedly, instigatingly, fool●shly, fugitively, grudgingly, Numb. 12. 2 Sam. 6. Luk. 7. Gen. 39. 1 Sam. 1. Gen. 30. 1. Gen. 18. 12. judge. 14. 1 King. 11. Gen. 38. 1 Sam. 18. Act. 5. 9. 2 King. 18. Gen. 19. t●untingly, sinfully, temptingly, ●astidiously, discontentedly, distrustfully, troachero●sly, seducingly, subtly, deludingly, leasingly, viciously, disobediently, All wicked ones do sin both inconsiderately, and delightfully. job 5. 2. Prov. 10. 9. Sin increased by Godly and wicked. Adams consenting brought forth Eating, flying, and excusing. Gen. 3. josh. 7. Exod. 32. 2 King. 22. 2 Sam. 11. Matth. 14. Gen. 27. 19. Achans coveting brought forth Stealing with concealing. Aarons ob●ying brought forth The golden calves making. Ahabs greediness brought forth discontent; with Naboths ruin. Davids concupiscence brought forth adultery, murder, dissembling. Herods banqueting brought forth dancing; with Iohns beheading. Iacobs feigning brought forth disguising, fraud, and lying. Few of the Godly, not any of the wicked that are name in the Book of God, but have added sin unto sin: So that by many degrees of iniquity they have climbed to the height of impiety. idleness Brings forth Adulteri●. prodigality Brings forth luxury. Riches Brings forth covetousness. covetousness Brings forth usury, and Unconscionableness. A reprobate sense Brings forth scorning of godliness. Pride Brings forth Insolence. Discontent Brings forth Faction. hypocrisy Brings forth Dissimulation. A profane hear● Brings forth Jesting. Presumption Brings forth Desperation. Malice Brings forth murder. Unmanly weakness of mind flattery and envy. envy malcontent. Non-residency of Ministers Killing of souls Honours Ambition. Ambition Corruption. Pleasures Lust. Lust begets A wanton eye. Lust begets A lascivious ear. Lust begets Filthy Jests. Thus man proceeds from evil to evil, waxing worse and worse, jer. 9. 3, 5. 2 Tim. 3. 13. Hos. 4. 2. Deut. 29. 13. Isai. 5. 1●. Rom. 6. 19. jer. 13. 23. Isai. 30. 1. Ch. 43. 24. By Swearing, lying, killing, stealing, and whoring men break out, and blood toucheth blood: drunkenness is added to thirst: sin is drawn on as it were with a cart-rope; So that the Black a more may sooner change his Hue, and the Leopard his spots, then they that are accustomend to sin can leave the same. They cover with a covering, not with my Spirit:( saith God) that they may add sin to sin: They will not take counsel of me, &c. Use. Seeing one sin begets another, let us take heed how we accustom ourselves in Ecclus. 7. 8. sinning: for that sin which may be conquered of us when it is young, will easily conquer us when it is old. Serò sapiunt. Turn back another way with the Wise men. Get chastity which drives away lust. charity which drives away avarice. Get humility which drives away pride. Peace which drives away contention. sin excused by Godly and wicked TO excuse sin is to derive and translate a sin committed by us, to another; thereby to ease ourselves wholly, or at the least, by having a partner, that it may be th● more lighter upon our shoulders. So did Cast the fault of sinning upon Adam Hevah Aaron Ahab David jehoram Israel Lots daughter The man patriarches Pilate High Priests Saul Simeon The Adulterer The Swearer R●otous Usurer Patron Minister The wicked Hevah, the Serpent, the People, Elias, the Sword, God, Moses, mankind, his Master, the wild beasts the People, Iudas, Samuel and the people, Shechem, Nature, Buyer, his Consorts, Borrowe●, the Minister, the Patron, the Lord, Saying, The woman gave me, and I did eat. Gen. 3. The Serpent beguiled me, and I did eat. the Serpent cast the fault on mankind: So that we have sin from our father, excuse from our mother, lying from the devil. Thou knowest the people are set on mischief. Exod. 32. 28. Art thou he that troubleth Israel? 1 King. 18. 17. 2 Sam. 11. 25. The sword devoureth one as well as another. Behold, this evil is of the Lord, why, &c. 2 King. 6. 33. Exod. 32. 23. Gen. 19. 31. Matth. 25. 24. Gen. 37. We wot not what is become of this man. There is not a man to come in unto us. I know that thou art a hard man, &c. Some evil beast hath devoured him:( to wit) joseph. I am innocent, &c. see ye to it. Matth. 27. 24. Matth. 27. 4. 1 Sam. 13. 1 Sam. 15. What is that to us? See thou to that. Because thou camest not within the dayes appointed: they have spared the best of the sheep to sacrifice. Should he deal with our sister, as with Gen. 34. 31. an harlot? So doth That she encourageth and directeth him by affection. He cannot else be believed, when he speaketh. Company drew him, without which he had not. He was importuned to lend, and therefore took use. It was his continual suiting made him take money. It was his hardness, that would not give freely. Who hath resisted the will of the Lord? Rom. 9. 19. And they will in the day of judgement excuse their sin, saying, Lord, when Matth. 25. 44. saw we thee an hungry, or thirsty? &c. The wicked man when he sinneth, he giveth full consent in heart to the sin that he committeth: The Godly man not; he hath no purpose before he come Rom. 7. 22. to do the sin, ●o do it: In the act, or doing, his heart riseth against it, yet by force of Temptation he is pulled on: After he hath sinned, he is displeased: and Note. Matth. 26. 27. repenteth. sin extenuated by the wicked. TO extenuate sin, is with the Pharisee to say, I thank God, I am not as this Publican, &c. Or else to set a tolerable name upon a gross sin: so that either it may not be seen, or being seen, may not appear in it own likeness. And in this manner: Is called Babbling covetousness Children of Belial Cozenage drunkenness Drunken Carowses Dissembling Fornication game gluttony implacableness Ignorance Oppression sobriety Scruple of Conscience almsdeeds Eloquence. wariness. Good-fellows. Living by a mans wits. Good-fellowship. Drinking of Healths. policy. Stepping awry. Passing the time. Hospitality. stoutness. simplicity. The making the most of a mans own. hypocrisy. preciseness. Vain-glory. And Crouching Pride Qua●relling rashness ribaldry riotousness Swearing simony usury whoredom wantonness Wrath So on the Contrary. Devotion The Mystery of Christianity godliness Sanctification humility. seemliness. Manhood. Valiantnsse. Mirth. Merry-meeting a foolish custom. gratuity. Interest, or putting out. a trick of youth Youthfulnesse. hastiness. Superstition. A stayed Civility. Honest behaviour▪ good education. Thus they call evil good, and good evil, they put darkness for light, and light for darkness, they put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter, for which woe is pronounced against them by the Lord. Isai. 5. 20. sir. 32. 17. Man what he is. Nosce teipsum: Know thyself: IT is no small point of wisdom( saith a learned Father) for a Man to know himself: If he know his body, he will say with the Prophet, I am fearfully Psal. 139. 14. Gen. 2. 7. Psal. 8. 4. made: If he know his Soul, he will say with Moses, It is a breath of Life: If he know his Condition, he will say with David, What is Man? But for a man to know what belongs to a Man, to dwell as they say within himself, to descend into his own bosom, and to keep himself within his own Scantling, is the part of a most wise man, and is indeed Nosce teipsum. He that knoweth not what he should know, is a Beast among Men. He that knoweth no more then must needs, is a Man among Beasts. He that knoweth All that he may know, is a God among Men. MAn is composed of the four Elements, of Fire, Water, Earth, and air, and of all their qualities; in that his vital spirits agreeth with the fire, his humours with the water, his body with the earth, and his hearing with the air, being a Creature fearfully, and wonderfully made by God of the day of the ground, fashioned wholly round about, clothed with skin and flesh, and joined together with bones and sinews, having his breath from the Almighty, and his Creation after his own image and likeness( that is) in righteousness and holinesse, as the Apostle witnesseth: Which Image being lost by Adams transgression, his Conception is now in sin, and his birth in iniquity, his Father is Corruption, his Mother and Sister worms, his habitation is a house of day to dwell in, as his foundation is in the Dust, during his time of abiding. And is but Man is but An Alient. Exo. 18. 3. jer. 10. 14 Rom. 7. 24. job 10. 9. 2 Pet. 1. 14 job 4. 19. Ephes. 2. 3. Rom. 1 23. 2 Cor. 4. 7. Gē. 18. 27. Rom. 8. 7. jer. 22. 29. A beast by his own knowledge. A body of sin. day of the ground. A tabernacle of day. A House of day. The child of wrath. Corruptible. A corruptible earthen vessel. Dust of the earth,& ashes. enmity against God. Earth itself. Man is but filthiness. job 14. 4. Psal. 78. 3●. Gen. 23. 4. Gen. 23. 4. Gen. 23. 4. job 4. 17. job 40. 4. job 11. 11. jer. 51. 18. Psal. 6●. 9. Psal. 78. 39. Psal. 22. 6. Flesh. A for●ein●●. A sojourn●r. A stranger. mortal. Vile. vain. vanity. More lighter then vanity. A wind that passeth away. A worm, and no man. And is like unto Man is compared to A broken vessel. Psal. 31. 12 job 13. 25. job 14. 2. Isai. 40. 6. 7, 22. Psal. 109. 23. Job 7. 2. job 13. 25 Psal. 102. 6 Psal. 102. 6 Dry stubble. A Flower. grass and grasshopper. A Hireling. A leaf driven to and fro. An owl in the desert. A Pelican in the wilderness Man is compared to A sea-fish. joh 7. 12. Eccles. 11. 3. jer. 31. 18. Hos. 4. 16. jer. 9. 2. job 17. 14. job 24. 5. A three falling. An untamed calf. An untamed heifer. A way-faring man. Worms in the earth living. A wild ass in the d●sert. And his life is but Mans life is but A Bubble. Wisd. 5. Prov. 3. 16 Eph. 6. 13 Psal. 39. 5 2 Cor. 4. 17. Wisd. 5. Gen. 47. 9 1 Cor. 9. 24 joh 8. 9. Psal. 89. 2 Sā. 14. 7. A day. An evil day. An hand breadth. A moment. A passage. A pilgrimage. A race to run. A shadow. A span long. A sparkle. Mans life is but Sorrow. Eccles. 2. 26. Psal. 90. 9. Iam. 4. 14. 2 Cor. ●0. 4. 1 Sam. 20. 3. Psal. 103 4. Wisd. 5. 12. A thought. A vapour. A warfare. A step from death. Death itself. An arrow parting the air. A bide flying through the air. Wisd. 5. 11. A cloud vanishing away. job 7. 9. Mans life is like unto Cheese turned to curde. job 10. 10 Drops of a bucket, and the least thing that a balance weigheth. Isa 40. 15 An eagle flying to the prey. job 9. 26. Milk powred out. job 10. 10 job 9. 25. Wis. 5. 10. A post running swiftly. A ship sailing in the sea. Mans life is like unto A shepherds tent. Isai. 38. 12. Psal. 90. 5. A sleep that passeth. A shadow, which is nothing. job 8. 9. A weavers shuttle. job 7. 6. Isai. 38. 10. Water spilled on the ground. 2 Sam. 14. 14. Yesterday, that is gone. job 8. 9. So that man may well say( as David said) We are strangers before thee, O 1 Chron. 29, 15. Lord, and sojourners, as were all our fathers: Our dayes on the earth are but as a shadow,( which is nothing) and there is none abiding. And his Age Psal. 39. 5. Is nothing in respect of God, his yeares are but as a thought, his dayes but forrowes, Psal. 90. 9. and they are few and evil, his time being but seventy yeares( saith David:) Eccles. 2. 23. and is to be numbered by dayes not by yeares, saying, Few and evil have the dayes Psal. 90. 10. of my life been. And so did David, saying, Teach me, O Lord, to number my dayes, Gen. 47. 9. not yeares. Psal. 90. 12. And his Birth Is unto travel, and his travel unto grief, in that he jo● 5. 7. Man is born in Corruption and sin, weeping and wailing: To show his misery. Man liveth in misery and Labour, Laughing and Toiling: To show his folly. Wisd▪ 7. Man death in grief and Anguish, Sighing and Sobbing: To show his Simpliciti●. So that his Birth is in tea●es, life in sweat, and death in sorrow. His Mans infancy is a dream, rashness, and foolish simplicity. Mans Youth is a frenzy, rage, and vain heat. Mans Manhood is a combat, covetousnsse and p●infull carefulness. Mans Old age is a sickness, weakness, and noisome languishing. Mans Life is a misery, vexation, and full of Troubles. Mans Death is a horror, dread, and fearfulness. So that tears and Complaints are his beginnings. Travels and pains-taking are his progress and proceeding. Dread his death, and corruption in the grave his ending. Thus, as job saith, Man that is born of a woman is full of trouble, and hath but a short time to live: He cometh up, and is cut down like a flower, having his beginning job 14. 2. and ending in nakedness, being condemned as soon as conceived, and before he is born, to eternal death judged. His Mans Breath is in his nostrils. Strength, labour and toiling. Isai. 2. 22. Mans Beauty is as a moth. Abiding, is as the grasshopper. Psal. 39. 11. Mans Memory is forgetfulness. Glory, as a Flower. Psal. 109. 23. Mans ears are flood-gates to let in sin. Eyes windows to behold vanities. 1 Pet. 1. 24. Mans Heart an anvil for Satan to work on Sences, matches to kindle lust. 2 Sam. 11. And Hath within him, sin rebelling against him: without, the world to 'allure him: on the right▪ hand, prosperity to inveigle him: on the left hand, adversity to vex him: Before him, Satans snares to entangle him: behind, Conscience to dog him: under his feet, the grave to swallow him: over his head, Gods judgements to fall on him. Thus the Orient and Occident, Prologue, and Epilogue of Mans life is nothing but Misery and vanity, having nothing assured him, but the assured certainty and uncertainty of Death. Certain, because no man can stop it. Uncertain three manner of ways: 1. In regard of Time: No man knows When he shall die. 2. In regard of Place: No man knows Where he shall die. 3. In regard of the End: No man knows How he shall die. As by these Examples following appeareth most evidently: Through the Certainty& Uncertainty of Death King Ahab died suddenly With an Arrow shot at him. 1 King. 22. 34. Belshazzar died suddenly At the sight of an hand-writing. Dan. 5. Eli the Priest died suddenly Breaking his neck by falling. 1 Sam. 4. 18. ●choash died suddenly His s●rvants conspiringly slay him. 2 King. 12▪ 20. Iob's Children died suddenly B●nquetting a house fell on them. job 1. K●ra● died suddenly The earth opening swallowed him. Numb. 16. Nabal died suddenly His heart at Davids words died within him. 1 Sam. 25. ●achel died suddenly In the high-way with child traveling. Gen. 36. Chrisipius died suddenly with Laughing, being Merry. Anastasius Emp. died suddenly with Lightning: Fearfully. Diagoras died suddenly with Joy: in his joyllitie. N●rva Emp. died suddenly with choler: being angry. Divinian Emp. died suddenly with a vapour of smoke. Valentini●n Emp. died suddenly with crying aloud. Anachrean died suddenly Being choked with The seed of a Grape. Pope Adrian died suddenly Being choked with A Gnat. Pope Alexand. 4. died suddenly Being choked with A fly. Pope lo died suddenly Being choked with A bone. Torquinius Priscu● died suddenly Being choked with Fabius the consul died suddenly Being choked with A hair in milk. Drusius Pompey died suddenly Being choked with A pair. William Ru●us died suddenly Was killed with an arrow shot to a Hart. Basil. Ma●ed. Emp Was killed with the stroke of an Hart. Use. 1. Seeing then mans life is so uncert●ine; follow the counsel of our Saviour Christ, Watch, for if the good man of the house had known what hour the devise Luke 12. 39. would come, he would have watched. 2. Seeing that all must return to dust, let it abate pride in us, lest, if we kick against God( being but day) we do hear at last that doleful sentence pronounced by Christ: Depart from me. Matth. 25. 41. read Eccles. 6. 4. Wisd. 7. Isai. 38. 12. Godly Persons are called Names and Titles given unto Godly Persons. A Miable Men. Col. 3 15. blameless Men. Phil. ●. 15. Blessed Men. Gen. 26. 29. Clean Men. joh. 15. 3. Courteous Men. Ep●es. 4. 32. Devout Men. Act. 2. 5. Discreet Men. Gen. 41. 39. Elected Men. Col. 3. 12. faithful Men. Prov. 20. 6. Free Men. Matth. 24. 25. Good Men. Matth. 12. 35. Godly Men. Psal. 12. 1. Guiltles●e Men. Matth. 12. 7. happy Men. Psal. 127. 6. Holy Men. Heb. 3. 1. Humble Men. Psal. 34. 2. Just Men. Matth. 13. 43. Learned Men. Isai. 50 4. liberal Men. Isai. 32. 8. Lowly Men. Prov. 16. 19. Meek Men. Numb. 12. 3. merciful Men. Matth. 5. 7. Peaceable Men. Gen. 34. 21. Perfect Men. Heb. 12. 23. Plain Men. Gen. 25. 27. Prosperous Men. Gen. 39. 2. Godly Persons are called Prudent Men. Prov. 14. 8. Pure Men. Prov. 15. 26. quickened Men. Ephes. 2 1. Righteous Men. Deut. 33. 5. Sanctified Men. 2 Tim. 2. 21. simplo Men. Psal. 116. 6. spiritual Men. 1 Cor. 2. 15▪ steadfast Men. 1 Cor. 15. 58. Tender-hearted Men. Ephes. 4. 32. True Men. Gen. 42. 31. Valiant Men. josh. 1. 14. unblamable Men. Col. 1. 22. Unleavened Men. 1 Cor. 5. 7. unmovable Men. 1 Cor. 15. 58. unreprovable Men. Col. 1. 22. Upright Men. job 1. 1. Wise Men. job 34. 2. Worthy Men. Matth. 10. 11. Men of Knowle●ge. joh 34. 2. Men fearing God. Act. 2. 5. Men of understanding Prov. 1▪ 5. Men of Rest. 1 Chron. 22. ●. Abrahams seed. Gal. 3. 22. Adopted sons. Gal. 4. 5. Angels. Revel. 14. 15. believers. Act. 14. 1. Godly Persons are called Beloved of God. Rom. 1. 7. Gen. 24. 31. joh. 15. 5. 1 Cor 2 15. Mat. 25. 4. ●ph. 4. 12. joh. 15. 2. Rom. 1. 6. Act. 2. 16. blessed of the Lord. Branches of righteousness. Branches of Christ. B●●thren of Christ. The Body of Christ. The Called of Christ. Christs Hand-maids▪ Christs Brother. Christs Sister. mat. 1●. 50. Christs Mother. Christs House. Heb. 3. 6. joh. 15. 14. 1 Cor. 7. ●. Cant. 5. 1. Act. 11. 26. Rom. 9. 8. Gal. 3. 7. Prov. 7. ●8. Gal. 4. 31. Rom. 9. 8. joh. 12. 36. 1 Thes 5 4. Luk. ●0. 36. Matth. 13. 38. Christs Friends. Christs Servants. Christs Beloved. Christians. Children of Abraham. Children of God. Children of Understanding. Children of the f●ee woman. Children of the ●romise. Children of the Light. Children of the day. Children of the Resurrection. Children of the kingdom. Children of the marriage-chamber. Matth. 9. 15. Luk. 6. 35. 2 Cor. 9. 7. 1 Cor. 7. 2●. Ephes. 2. 19. 2 Cor. 5 6. Rom. 8. 37. Prov. 12. 20. Prov. 4. 6. Matth. 24 45. Gen. 49. 22. Isai. 49. 13. Psal 105. 15. Rom. 9. 25. 1 Cor 3. 9. Rom. 8. 33. Prov. 11. 26. Isai 4. 1. Isai. 40. 11. Act. 2. 18. 1 Cor. 3. 9. Psal. 83. 3. 1 Pet. 5. 3. 1 Cor. 3. 9. Psal 69. 33. Psal. 25. 14. joh. 10. 27. Psal. 83. 3. Isai. 4. 8. Psal. 80. 14. Ephes. 2. 10. 2 Cor. 6. 18. Col. 3. 12. joh. 21. 16. Isai 4. 5. Act. 17. 29. Ephes. 2. 22. Ephes. 2. 19. Act. 17. 29. Tit. 2. 14. Children of the most High. cheerful givers. Circumcised Ones. Citizens with Saints. Confident Ones. conquerors▪ counsellors of Peace. faithful Witnesses. faithful Servants. fruitful Bongus. Gods Assl●cted. Gods Anointed. Gods Beloved. Gods Building. Gods Chosen. Gods Delight. Gods Friends. Gods flock, Gods H●nd-maids. Gods H●sbandrie. Gods Hidden Ones. Gods Heritage. Gods Labourers. Gods Prisoners. Gods Pri●y counsellors. Gods Sheep Gods Secret Ones. Gods Servants. Gods Vine. Gods Workmanship. The daughters of God. The Elect of God. The Flock of God. The glory of God. The Generation of God. The Habitation of God. The household of God. The off-spring of God. Peculiar People of God. Godly Persons are called Princes of God. Gen. 23. 6. 1 Pet. 1. 2 Cor. 5. 21. Isai. 35. 10. 1 Cor. 3. 17. Heb. 1●. 7. Gal. 3. 29. Rom. 8. 17. Rom. 8. 17. Heb. 1. 14. 1 Pet. 3. 9. 1 Pet. 2. 5. Rom. 8. ●7. Matth. 5. 6. professors of God. The righteousness of God. The redeemed of God. The Temple of God. Heires of righteousness. Heires of the Promise. Heires with Christ. Heires of God. Heires of Salvation. Heires of Blessing. A holy Priesthood. The household of Christ. Hungerers after righteousness. Innocents. job 4. 7. Heb. 10 32. Isai. 11. 6. Revel. 5. 10. joh. 21. 15. Matth. 18 3. joh 13. 33. Luk 12. 33. Luk. 15. 14. 1 Pet. ●. 5. Gen. 27. 3●. 1 Cor. 7. 22. joh. 3. 19. Illuminate Ones. Kids. Kings. Lambs. Little Ones, Little Children. Little Flock. Living sons. Lively Stones. Lords of others. The Lords Free-men▪ Lovers of the light. Lovers of the day. Lovers of God. 2 Tim. 3. 4. 1 joh 2. 10. 1 Cor. 6. Lovers of the Godly. Members of Christ. Members of the Temple of the Holy 16, 19. Ghost. Mourners▪ Matth. 5. 4. 1 Cor. 5. 7. 2 Cor. 5. 17. 1 Pet. 2. 2. Matth. 5. 9. Psal. 95 7. Isai. 61 3. Matth. 5. 3. Rev. 5 10. 1 Pet. 2. 9. 1 Cor. 1. 2. Psal. 83. 3. Isai 41. 8. job 11. 21. Isai 65 23▪ Matth. 13. 38. Psal. 95. 7. Psal 23. Matth. 26. 31. Act. 17. 11. Rom. 6. 18. Deut 34. 5. 1 Cor. 7. 22. New Lamps. New Creatures. New corn Babes. Peace-makers People of Gods pasture. Plants of the Lord. poor in Spirit. Priests. A royal Priest-hood. Saints. Secret Ones. Seed of Abraham. Seed of the Righteous. Seed of Blessed. Good Seed. Sheep of Gods hands. Sheep of Gods pasture. Sheep of Gods flock. Searchers of Scripture. Servants of righteousness Servants of the Lord. Servants of Christ. Sons of the free-woman. Gal. 4. 31. Luk 20. 36. Prov. 10. 5. 1 Pet. 2. 5. 1 Cor. 11. 58. Psal. 8. 2. Isai. ●1. 3. Sons of God. Sons of wisdom. A spiritual House. steadfast ones. Sucklings. Trees of righteousness. Godly Persons are called Thirsters after righteousness. Matth. 5. 6. Triumphers in Christ. 2 Cor. 2. 14. Rom 9. 23. 2 Tim. 2. 21. Act. 9. 15. Eph. 6. 12. Gen. 32. Vessels of mercy. Vessels of Honour. Chosen vessels. Wrestlers. The workmanship of Eph. 2. 10. 1 Cor. 3. 17. the Lord. The Temple of God. Godly Persons are compared unto Angels for quality. Luk 20. 36. Deut. ●2. 10. Zech. 2. 8. The Apple of Gods eye. A Crown of Glory Isai. 62. 3. A royal D●ademe An everlasting foundation Prov. 10. 25. Matth. 24. 28. job 23. 10. Isai. 13. 12. Matth. Matth. Matth. 13. 23. Mal. 3. 17. Phil. 2. 15. joh 28. 1. Psal. 125. 1. Eagles. Fine gold. Gold of Ophyr. Good Fish. Good Figs. Good Ground. Jewels. Lights of the world. Lions for boldness. Mount Sion. New vessels. New Garments Matth. 9. 16. Olive-plants. Psal. 128. 3. 2 Cor. 11. 2. 1 Cor. 9. 24. Dan. 12. 3. Psal. 1. ● Gen. 49. 22. Isai. 44. 4. Psal. ●0. 10. judge▪ 9. 11. Psal. 52. 8. Psal. 92. 12. Psal 52 8. jer. 22. 24. Matth 3. 12. ●ure virgins, R●ce Runners. S●●rres. Trees by the water. Cedar Trees. fig Trees. Olive Trees. palm Trees. Vine Trees. The Signet of Gods hand Wheat A watered garden. Isai. 58. 11. Waters that fail not. Vessels of Gold 2 Tim. 2. 20. Vessels of silver The wings of a Dove covered with silver, Psal 68 13● and her feathers with yellow gold. Partridges. 1 Sam. 26. 20. Gen. 8. 8. Doves. Wicked persons are called ABominable Men▪ Prov. 11 20. Prov. 22. 24. job 40 7. Ezek. 21. 31. Rev. 3. 17. Psal. 5. 6. Prov. 12. 1. 1 Cor. 3. 3. 1 Cor. 5. 11. Deut. 32. 5. jer. 6. 28. Deut. 32. 5. angry Men▪ Arrogant Men▪ Beastly Men▪ blind Men▪ Bloud-thirsti● Men▪ Brutish Men▪ carnal Men▪ Covetous Men▪ Corrupt Men▪ crafty Men▪ Crooked Men▪ Wicked persons are called cruel Men. Psal. 18. 48. 1 Cor. 5. 11. Luke 15. 32. Psal 5. 6. Tit. 1 15. 2 Tim. 3. 2. 2 Thes 3 11. Iam. 1. 8. Psal. 10. 18. Prov. 4. 14. Revel. 21. 8. Prov. 22. 24. Rev. 22. 11. Psal. 49. 10. ● Tim. 3. 3. Prov. 1. 19. Prov. 22. 24. Cunning Men. Dead Men. deceitful Men. Defiled Men. Disobedient Men. Disordered Men. D●uble-minded Men. Earthly Men. evil Men. fearful. Men. Fierce Men. Filthy Men. Foolish Men. Furious Men. greedy Men. haughty Men. heady Men. High-minded Men. 2 Tim. 3. 4. Horrible Men. Wisd. 4. 18, 19. Psal. 49. 10. 2 Tim. 3 3. 2 Thes. 3. 11. 1 Tim. 1. 9. Prov. 13. 5. 2 Cor. 4. 3. Rev. 3. 16. Prov. 26. 18. 1 Pet. 2. 1. Rom. 1. 30. Rev. 3. 16. Prov. 24 8. Rev. 3. 17. 1 Cor. 2. 14. Prov. 6. 12. Isai. 48. 4. Iam. 2. 4. 2 Pet. 2. 10. Isai. 35. 8. 1 Tim. ●. 9. Psal. 86. 14. Prov. 14. 16. Nahum 2. 12. Prov. 24. 2●. Isai 1. 4. Act. 7. 51. Mal. ●. 13. Isai. 46. 12▪ Act. 23. 10. jer. 2. 5. Deut. 11. 21. Psal. 86. 14. Rev. 21. 8. Act 7. 51. 2 Thes. 3. 11. 2 Thes. 3. Rev. 22. 11. 2 Thes. 3. 2. 1 Cor. 6. 9. Iam 1. 8. ● Tim. ●. 2. Prov. 6. 12. Iam. 1. 8. Prov. 6. 12. hopeless Men. Ignorant Men. Inordinate Men. Intemperate Men. lawless Men. Loathsome Men. Lost Men. lukewarm Men. Mad Men. malicious Men. merciless Men. Miserable Men. Mischievous Men. Naked Men. natural Men. naughty Men. Obstinate Men. partial Men. Presumptuous Men. Pollut●d Men. profane Men. Proud Men. Raging Men. Ravenous Men. Seditious Men. sinful Men. stiffnecked Men. Stout Men. Stout-hearted Men. subtle Men. Vain Men. Vile Men. Violent Men. unbelieving Men. Uncircumcised Men. Ungodly Men. Unholy Men. Unjust Men. Unreasonable Men. Unrighteous Men. Unstable Men. unthankful Men. Unth●iftie Men. Wavering-minded Men. Wicked Men. Wicked persons are called scornful Men. Prov. 29. 8. Prov. 15 18. Rev. 3. 17. Psal. 17. 14. 2 Tim. 3. 8. wrathful Men. Wretched Men. Worldly Men. Men of corrupt minds, ●oide of counsel Deut. ●2. 28. and understanding, Men Sl●y●rs. 1 Tim. 1. 9. ●sai. 45. 20. Isai. 14. 19. Psal 3 1. 1 Sam. 2. 10. Matth. 12. 39. Eph. 2. 12. judge. 18. ●5. Psal. 44. 16. job 24 8. Psal. 119. 42. Prov. 14. 14. Psal 114 1. Heb. 12. 8. Rom 1. 29. Isai. 42. 18. Gen. 49. 5. 2 Thes 3. 11. judge. 18. 10. ● Cor. ●. 27. Numb. 13. 13. Abjects, Abominable branches, Adversari●s, Adversaries of the Lord, Adulterous people, Aliens, angry fellowes, Avengers, Authour● of wickedness, Backb●te●s, Backsl●ders, B●rbarous people, Bastards, Blasphemers, blind persons▪ Brethr●n in ●vill, Busi●-bodies, careless people, castaways. Children of Belial, Children of D●rkness●, the night, 1 Thes. 5. 5. Children of the bond-woman, Gal. 4. 3. Eph. 2. 2. jo●. 8. 44. Act. 12. ●0. Children of disobedience, Children of the devil, job 30. 8. Rom. 9 8. job 41. 34. job 17. 12. Isai. 57. 4. job 30. 8. 2 Sam. 7. 10. Ephes. 2. 3. Exod 7. 11. Iude 16. Rom. 14. 4. Prov. 6. 19. Isai. 1. 4. Phil. 3. ●. jer. 6. 28. Phil. 2. 15. 2 Tim. 3. 2. Rom. 1. ●9. jer. 2. 21. Luk. 19. 46. 2 Tim 3. 4. jer. 6. 28. Hab. 1. 13. joh. 6. 70. Isai. 10. 6. Rom. 1. 30. 1 Cor. 5. 11. Psal. 37. 1. Matth. 18. 32. jer. 12. 14. Psal. 140. 11. Prov. 4. 14. Children of Fools, Children of the flesh, Children of pride, Children of perdition, Children of transgression, Children of villains, Children of wickedness, Children of wrath, Charmers, Complainers, Condemners of others, Contentious persons, Corrupt children, Concisions, Corrupters, Crooked people, Cursed speakers, Deceivers, Degenerate plants. Dens of thieves, Despicers of good men, Destroyers, Devourers, Devils, Dis●embling people, Doers of wrong, Drunkerds, evil Do●rs, evil Men, evil Ne●ghbours, evil Speakers, evil Servants, Wicked persons are called Enemies of righteousness, Act. 13. 10. Psal. 120. 5. Enemies of Peace, Enemies of he cross of Christ, Phil. 3. 18. Rom. 1. 29▪ Revel. 12 15. 2 Tim. ●. 3. Prov. 4. 5. jer. 1●. 16. ●sai. 7. 4. Prov. 18 8. Prov. 11. 11. job 8 13. job 13. 4. Prov 3. 32. Isai. 43. 14. Rom 10. 21. Matth 23. 33. Matth. 17 17. Deut. 3●. 5. Matth. 25. 33. judge. 5. 31. Isai. 11. 24. Psal. 110. 1. 2 Cor. 9. 7. Prov. 1. 22. Psal 81. 15. jer. 16. 16. Ezek. 34. 28. Tit. ● 10. Matth. 7. 5. 1 Sam. 24. 12. 1 Cor. 5. 11. Deut. 28. 11. 2 Tim. 3 4. Rom. 1. 30. Ezek 2. 4. Isai. 30. 9. Psal. 62. 9. 1 Tim. 1. 9. judge. ●. 4. 2 Tim. 3. 4. joh. ●1. 19. Rev. 3. 16. 2 Pet. 3. 3. Isai. 3●. 6. Isai. 50. 6. Deut. 18. 10. Isai. 16. 4. Lam 1. 3. Act. 13. 10. Phil. 2. 15. job 27. 13. Envious persons, Enchanters, False Accusers, F●lse witnesses, Fishers, Fire brands, Flatterers, fools, Forg●tters of God, Forgers of Ly●s, Froward persons, Fugitives, G●●n-saying people, Generation o● Vipers, Generation faithless, A crooked generation, Goats, Gods adversaries, Gods enemies, Gods foo●stoole, Grudgers, H●ters of knowledge, Haters of the Lord, Harlo●s, He ●theas, heretics, Hypocrites, Hunters, Idolaters, enchanters, Incon●●nent persons, inventors of evil, Impudent children, Lying children, lies, Lawl●sse persons, Light fellowes, Lovers of pleasures, their own, Lovers of darkness, lukewarm persons, Mockers, N●ggards, Nippers, Observers of times, Outcasts, Pe●secuters, Perverters of Gods ways, Perverse people, oppressors, People laden with iniquity, Isai. 1. 4. jer. 2. 21. Prov. 10. 8. Deut. 9. 7. Lam. 1. 6. 1 Cor. 5▪ 11. Isai. 1. 2. Psal. 44. 16. jer. 6. 30. 2 Cor. 13. 5. Plants of a strange vine, prattling fools, Provokers of God, Pursuers of the Godly, railers, Rebels, Rebukers, Reprobate silver, Reprobates, Wicked persons are called Resisters of truth, 2 Tim. 3. 8. Prov. 23. 21. job 1●. 6. Gen. 4. 12. Riotous eaters, Robbers, runagates, Rods of Gods anger, Staves of Gods indignation. Isai. 10. 5. Reapers of vanity, Prov. 22. 8. Prov. 22. 8. Prov. 16. 28. Psal. 1. 1. 2 Tim. 3. 13. Isai. 1. 4. Matth. 3. 28. Sowers of iniquity, Sowers of strife, Scorners, Seducers, The seed of the wicked, devil, The seed of the adulterer and whore, Isai. 57. 3. Servants of corruption, 2 Pet. 2. 19. joh. 8. 34. Isai. 14. 29. 1 Tim. 1. 9. Rom. 2. 9. mat. 25. 3●. Isai. 50. 6. Psal. 44. 16. Gal. 4. ●0. Isai. 2. 6. Psal. 10. 9. jer. 2. 21. 1 Tim. 1. 6. jer. 9. 4. Hos. 4. 2. Matth. 13. 21. Mal. 3. 15. Prov. 18 8. Matth. 21. 13. Isai. 1. 28. jer. 6. 26. Isai▪ 21. 2. 2 Tim. 3 3. jo● 26. 6. Psal. 94. 4. jer. 10. 15. Gen. 4. 1●. Rom. 9. 22. 2 Tim. 2. 20. Isai. 32. 5. Luk. 16. 8. Rev. 21. 8. Matth. 25. 30. Psal 15. 5. 1 Cor. 6. 11. Prov. 18. 9. Rom. 1. 29. Matth. 25. 26. Nabum 1. 11. Prov. ●1. 16. Matth. 11. 25. Psal. 5. 5. Prov. 23. 20. Servants of sin, Serpents root, Sinners, Synagogue of satan, slothful servants, S●iters, Slanderers, Sons of the servant, Sorcerers, Spoilers of the poor, Strangers, Swarvers, Supplanters, Swearers, Temporizers, Tempters of God, Tale-bearers, thieves, Transgressou●s, Traitou●s, Treacherous dealers, Truce-breakers, Tyrants, V●unters, vanity, Vagabonds, Vessels of wrath, V●ssels of dishonour, Vile persons, Unjust stewards, unbelieving persons, Unprofitable servants, Usu●ers, Wantons, Wasters, Whisperers, Wicked servants, Wicked counsellors, Wanderers, Worldly wise, Workers of iniquity, Wine bibbers, Additions: venomous. Psal. Wicked persons are compared unto Wicked men to what compared. Axes that are cutting, Isai. 10. 15. Psal. 118. 12. ● Pet. 2. 13. Isai. 10. 17. judge. 9 18. Psal 1. 4. Psal. 37. ●0. Bees stinging, Blots being defiled, briars and good but for the fire, Brambles, good but for the fire, chaff before the wind, Clouds carried with tempest, Mal. 4▪ 3. Isai. 57. 20. Dust and Dirt underfoot, Dece●●full bow, Psal 78. 57. Psal. 73. 20. Isai. 29. 1. Isai. 1. 25. jer. ●4. 8. Matth. 13. 48. Isai. ●. 19. Zech. 3. 2. Psal. 21. 9. Isai. 1. 30. I●r. 13. 7. Psal. 37. 2. Psal. 62. 3. jer. 51. ●0. Isai. ●9. 8. Isai. 16. 16. job 20. 7. Matth 7. 6. Isai. 10. 6. Isai. ●. 30. Matth. 9. 16, 17. 1 Cor. 5, 7. Matth. 23. 27. Psal. 58. 9. dreams being nothing, Dreams of a night vision, dross of metals, Figs being nought, Fishes of no account, fuel for the fire, Fire-brands, Fiery Ovens, Gardens without water, Girdles corrupted, grass on house tops, Hedges broken down, Hammers, Hungry men dreaming, Hunters, Mans dung, Men building on sands, mire in the streets, oaks whose leaf fade, Old Bottles, Garment, Old Cloth, Garment, Old Leaven, Garment, Painted sepulchers, Raw flesh, Raging seas casting up dirt and Mire, Isai. 57. 20. Ravens feeding on Carrion Gen. 8. 7. 1 Kings 14. 15. Isai 10. 15. Eccles. ●. 13. jer. 15. 1. Hos. 13. 3. Psal▪ 58 8. Isai. 1. 31. Matth. 13 5. job 21. 18. Amos 8. ●. Matth. 13. 38 Isai. 1. 13. Iude 12. Luk. ●3. 31: 2 Tim. ●. ●0. Isai. 29. 7. Hos. 10. 1. Iude 12. Psal. 62. 31. Psal. 6●. 2. Matth. 13. 4. Psal. 83. 13. 2 Pet 2. 17. Matth. 23. 27. Reeds in the water, hews, A shadow, Pitchers of earth, Smoke that vanisheth, snails which melt, sparks of fire, Stony ground, Stubble before the wind, Summer fruits, Tares cho●king corn, Tow that is soon fired, Trees corrupted, Trees dried up, Vessels of wood, Visions in the night, Vines being empty, Waves of the sea, walls ready to fall, wax soon melted, The way side, A Wheel turning, Wels without water, Whited tombs, Wicked persons are compared unto Whited wa●s, Act. 23. 3. Pro. 10. 25 Whirlwinds, Bruit Beasts, 1 Car 15 32 Psal. 58. 4 Psal 91. 13. Psal. 22. 12 Adders, Asp●s, bulls of Bashan, A c●ge of unclean fowls, Rev. 18. 2. Cockatr●●es, Isa 14. 29 2 Pet. 2. 22. Isai. 51. 9. jer. 2. 23. Iam 4. 19 Cant. 2. 15 Psa. 22. 12. Psal. 32. 9. Ps. 17. 12. Isai. 11. 6. Psal. 32. 9. Psa. 33. 9. Isai. 45 ●1. Ezek. 1. 6. Psa 58. 4. 2 Pet. 2. 22 mat. 3. 7. Ps. 80. 13. Isai. 11. 6. D●gs, Dragons, Dromedaries, Eagles, Foxes, Fatted oxen, Horses, Leop●rds, Lions, Mules, Ravenous beasts, Ravenous birds, Scorpions, Serpents, sows, Vipers, wild bo●res, Wolves, The Nature of the wicked agreeing with the nature of beasts. The ambitious Is likened and compared unto An Eagle. jer. 49. 16. The angry man Is likened and compared unto A Dart. The backhiter Is likened and compared unto A Dog. 2 Sam. 16. 9. The cruel man Is likened and compared unto An Ostrich. The crafty man Is likened and compared unto A bear. Prov. 28. 15. The covetous Is likened and compared unto A caterpillar. The drunkard Is likened and compared unto A Dipsas. The extortioner Is likened and compared unto A Stellion. The filthy man Is likened and compared unto A Sow. 2 Pet. 2. 22. Luk. 13. 32. The fraudulent Is likened and compared unto A Fox. The hypocrite Is likened and compared unto A crocodile. The lascivious Is likened and compared unto A Horse. jer. 5. 8. Gen. 49. Gen. 49. Psal. 58. 4. The lustful Is likened and compared unto A Goat. The murderer Is likened and compared unto A Serpent. The obstinate Is likened and compared unto An Adder. The oppressor Is likened and compared unto A wolf. The proud man Is likened and compared unto A Lion. Psal. 57. 4. The pirate Is likened and compared unto A Sea-s●rpent. The slothful Is likened and compared unto A Lizard. Levit. 11. 30. The wrathful Is likened and compared unto A Dragon. The tyrannicall Is likened and compared unto A Leopard. Ecc'us. 28. 23. The whore Is likened and compared unto A Cocatrix. A mocking friend Is likened and compared unto A stall●on horse. Ecclus. 33. 6. An Engrosser Is likened and compared unto A caterpillar. Temporizer Is likened and compared unto A chameleon. Levit. 11. 30. The fool in his folly, Is likened and compared unto A bear. Prov. 17. 12. The babbler Is likened and compared unto A Serpent: Eccles. 10. 11. The Contentious man feeds on Fire, with the Salamander, The Covetous man feeds on Earth, with the Moules, The Vain-glorious man feeds on air, with the chameleon. Levit. 11. 30. The Epicurious man feeds on mire, with the Swine. The Gluttonous man feeds on Carrions, with the crows. Repentance in man what. REpentance is the hatred of sin, and an earnest desire of righteousness, by which we are continually stirred up to abhor our vices, and are moved to do good works, not for fear of punishment, or hope of reward, but for that love we bear unto God, which worketh in us that with a joyful heart we are moved to his obedience, and with grie●e go astray from his Commandements. And therein is the Promise fulfilled made unto us of God by the Prophets, namely that he will jer. 31. 33. Ezek 36. 26. Psal. 119. 17, 47. take from us the ●●ony heart, in stead whereof he will give us a heart of flesh, wherein he will engrave his Law, that we may walk in his Commandements. Hence it cometh that the Law of God which in former time was grievous, and hated of us, is not only not grievous, but most acceptable and delightful. Repentance is a Work of Grace arising of a Godly Sorrow. Godly sorrow, whereby a man turns from all his sins unto God, bringing forth fruits worthy amendment of life: Of which sorrow for sins there are two ●inds,* Godly and Worldly. 2 Cor. 7. 11. Godly For sin, because it is sin, a breach of Gods will, and an offence to his majesty: Which sorrow was In David, Fainting, Psal. 6. 6. In Hezekiah, Chattering, Isai. 38. 14 In joh, abhorring himself, joh 42. 6. In Manasseh. humbling himself, 2 Chron. 33. In Ezra, in his heaviness, Ezra 9. In Daniel, in his sorrowfulness, Dan. 9. In Ephraim, smiting the thigh, jer. 31. 19. In Peter, weeping bitterly, Matth. 27. Numb. 12. 11. In The Father, bewailing his unbelief, Mark 9. 24. In Magdalene, washing of Christs feet, Luke 7. 38. As also in Paul crying out, Oh miserable man that I am, who shall deliver me Rom. 7. 24. from this body of sin? So that the Spirit of heaviness goeth before the Garment of gladness, for that there is no reaping in joy without sowing in tears. Psal. 126. 5. Worldly Worldly sorrow. Gen. 4. 13. Sorrow is a grief and passion of the heart for worldly things, or spiritual things in worldly respects, and often a fear of punishing for committed sin. Such was King Ahab's, for his oppression And Felix, at Paul's preaching. 1 King. 21. Gen. 7. Natth. 27. Act. ●4. Natth. 14. exod. 4. Esau's, for his blessing. And Herod's, at John Baptists. Iudas, for his betraying. And Pharaoh's, at the almighty. Yea, such is every wicked man, when they see or feel the fearful Judgements of God to overtake them, and fall upon them: Then every Sorrow is not repentance for sin, for so should worldlings Repent. Then every Pant for sin is not repentance for sin, for so should Pharaoh Repent. Then every Confession is not repentance for sin, for so should Iudas Repent. Then every Little humbling is not repentance for sin, for so should Ahah Repent. Heb. 12. 17. Then every Weeping is not repentance for sin, for so should Esau Repent. Then every Good word is not repentance for sin, for so should Sick men Repent. Then every Cry to God is not repentance for sin, for so should Every fool Repent. True Sorrow then is the Godly Sorrow, spoken of by St Paul, that causeth 2 Cor. 7. 10, &c. Rep●ntance unto Salvation not to be reprented of. Whereas worldly sorrow causeth death, after which repentance, in the next Heb. 5. 7. place will follow Fasting, tears, and crying. Of Fasting. FAstings are of divers kindes: and diversely used. There is a Constrained Fast, For want of food. 2 King 6. Act. 27. 33. There is a Sickly Fast, Having food, and cannot eat. There is a physical Fast, For recovering of Health. There is a Civill Fast, Commanded by Magistrates. jonab 2. There is a Miraculous Fast, Such was Moses, Elias, and Christs. There is a Daily Fast, By abstinence. There is a Religious Fast, Used by the Godly. 2 Car. 6.6. The Benefits that Fasting brings to man are very great: Fasting Strengtheneth the memory. Preserveth Chasticie. Fasting Cleareth the mind. Preventeth sicknesses. Fasting Illuminateth the Understanding. Continueth Health. Fasting B●idleth the Affections. Delivereth from evils. Fasting Mortifieth the flesh. Procureth all blessings. And they show Our sorrows for sin past: So did the Israelites fast. judge. 20. 26. jonah 3. 1 Cor. 9. Psal. 35. 14. Our fear of punishment to come: So did the Ninevites fast. The castigation of the body: So did the Apostles fast. The humiliation of the Soul: So did the Prophets fast. True Fasting Matth. 9. 15. 1 Cor. 7. 5. Ioel 2. 12. Dan. 9. 3. Isai. 1. 16. Chap. 58. 6. Is when a man perceiving the want of some blessing, or suspecting and seeing some emment calamity upon himself or other, abst●ineth not only from flesh for a season, but also from all delights and sustenances, that he may thereby make a more diligent search into his sins, and thereby make his prayers more humbly unto God, to withhold his plagues threatened, to take them away being fallen on him, and to bestow such things as are wanting to him. So did the Ninevites: Queen Estker for the Jews, and Israelites for themselves. Of tears. tears are noted to proceed of an ardent Affection, as in jeremiah: The voice jer. 31. 15. of heaviness, weeping and Lamentation was heard, Rachel mourning for her Children. Wept and mourned David making his tears his meat night and day▪ P●al. 42. ●. 〈…〉 2 Ki●●. 20 3. 1 Sam. 7. 6. E 〈…〉 r 4. 3. Hos●●●. 4. job 16. ●●. mat. ●6. ●5. Act. 20. 19. Es●b. 4. 3. Luke 19. 41. joh. 11. 35, 43. Heb. 5. 7. Hezekiah Chattering like a Crane, praying earnestly. Israelites Powring out before the Lord their manifold tears. Jews Fasting, girded with sackcloth, and lying in Ashes. jacob Prevailing with the Angel, praying to the Lord. job His eyes gushing out with tears before God. Peter Bitterly after his denial of Christ to the Maiden. Paul Serving the Lord with many tears and Temptation. Mordecai Crying with a great Cry, and bitter Lamentation. Christ Shedding tears of pity over Jerusalem. Shedding tears of Love at Lazarus raising. Shedding tears of Anguish at his Passion. The man that soweth in tears, shall reap in joy. Psal. 126. 5. Exod. 14. 15. Psal. 119. 1●5. Crying may be both in Spirit and voice, as appeareth by Moses, who is said to Nota. cry unto the Lord, when as he prayed in Spirit. So David. Repentance of Godly Persons Repented of their murmuring against Moses, saying Alas, my lord: I beseech Numb. 1●. 11. thee, lay not this sin upon us, wherein we have done foolishly, and wherein we have sinned. David Being reproved by Nathan, saying, I have sinned exceedingly in 2 Sam. 12. Psal. 51. that I have done: Wash me, O Lord, and make me clean. Ezra Confessing his sins, and the sins of the people, weeping and falling Ezra 10. 1. down before the Lord, together with a great Congregation of men, women, and children. Daniel Confessing his own sin, the sin of the people, and of their Fathers, Dan. 9. for all which he craved pardon. The Israelites Weeping before the Lord, and fasting, saying, We have sinned, judge. 20. 1 Sam. 7. judge. 10. Num. 21. and sorrowing for murmuring against Moses and Aaron. josiah So as his heart melted at the words of the Law of God: Renting 2 King. 22. 19. his clothes, and weeping before the Lord. job In dust and ashes, saying, I have sinned, what shall I do unto thee, job 7. 20. O thou preserver of men? I am a burden unto myself. Hezekiah Renting his Clothes, and putting on Sack-cloth. Isai. 38. Pray. of Manas. Act. 19. Saying, I have sinned above the number of the sands of the sea. Many men Seeing Pauls works, shewed works of repentance. Ninevites Proclaiming a fast, putting on Sackcloth from the greatest to jonah 3. the least, sitting in Ashes, crying mightily unto God, not suffering any beast to taste any thing. The patriarches Saying, We are guilty concerning our brother, in that we saw the Gen. 42. 21. anguish of his soul, when he and sought us. The Prodigal Confessing that he was no more worthy to be called a son. Luk. 15. Luk. 22. 62. Matth. 3. Act. 2. Peter Weeping bitterly after that Christ was denied by him. The People Hearing John, confessing their sins; and hearing Peter preaching, cried out, being pricked in heart, saying, What shall we do to be saved? One thief Saying, We receive the due reward of our deeds. Rizpah By hanging up of Sackclothes on a rock from harvest-beginning 2 Sam. 21. 10. till water dropped on them from heaven, not suffering any beast by night, or bide by day to come nigh them. Zacheus Saying, Behold, I give to the poor, &c. I make restitution. Luk. 19. Repentance of wicked persons. Repented Achan Saying, I have sinned against the Lord God almighty. josh. 7. 20. Ahab Renting his clothes, putting on sackcloth, going softly. 2 Chron. 22. Balaam Saying I have sinned, I will return back again. Numb. 22. 34. Esau Lifting up his voice weeping, having lost the blessing. Gen. 27. Iudas Saying, I have sinned in betraying the innocent blood. Matth. 27. Saying, I have sinned, when he was by God plagued. Exod. 9. Rehoboam Humbling himself at Shemaiahs admonishing of him. 2 Chron. 12. Saul Saying, I have sinned, when he spared Agag, being forbidden. 1 Sam. 15. Saying, Pray ye the Lord that it come not, as ye have spoken. Act. 8. 24. If We confess our sins, and forsake them, we shall find mercy; 1 joh. 1. 9. If We aclowledge our sins, we shall find God faithful and just in forgiving them, and cleansing us of every of them. Use. Let us confess our sins with the Godly, praying for pardon, and with Moses, Isaiah, jeremiah, and Daniel, pray for the pardon of the sins committed by other men, Exod. ●●. Isai. 64. jer. 3. Dan. 9. Psal. 106. read 2 Chron. 7. 13. Isai. 58. 6. Psal. 35. 13. 2 Cor. 7. 10. Repentance how said to be in God. WHen the Scriptures attribute Repentance unto God, it is not that he doth contrary to that he hath ordained in his secret counsel: But when he threateneth, it is a calling to Repentance, and when he giveth man Grace to repent, the threatening( which ever containeth a Condition in it) taketh no place. And this the Scripture calleth Repentance in God, because it so appeareth to the judgement of man. The Lord repented 1. That he had made man: and that he had made Saul King. Gen 3. 1 Sam. 15. Exod. 18. 8. jer. 26. 19. 2 Sam. 24. 16. jer. 42. 10. Exod. 32. 14. judge. 10. 16. Amos 7. 3. Ioel 2. ●3. jonah 3. 10. 2. Of The plagues that he thought to bring upon the people, because they turned from their iniquities: as also of the plagues pronounced against Jerusalem, and of the evils that he had done to his people upon their return unto him. 3. Of The evil that he purposed to do unto his people Israel, and his Soul was grieved for the miseries of them. 4. That He had sent the grasshoppers into the land of Israel, as also of the evil threatened to them that turned to him. 5. Of The evil that he said he would bring upon the Ninevites, as also for his servants, when he saw their power was gone, so that there was none shut up, or left among them. Deut. 32. 3●. Ps ●●5. 45. Ps. 135. 14. Ps. 135. 24. jer. 26. 3. ● 18. 8. 6. Saith David, in remembering his Covenant made to the Israelites, and that according to the multitude of his mercies. The Lord is said not to repent: 1. because they have forsaken him, and gone backward, because they have jer 15 6. Chap. 18. 10. Ezek. 24. 14. Hos. 13. 14. done evil, and would not hear his voice, therefore according to their own works he rewarded them. 2. But saith, That repentance is hide from his eyes, and that because of the wickedness they had committed against him. 3. The earth shall mourn, and the heavens shall be darkened, and that because jer. 4. 28. Chap. 15. 6. the people have forsaken him. The Lord cannot repent. 1 Sam. 15. 29. Mal. 3. 6. Rom. 11. ●9. Iam. 1. 17. Ps. 1●● 27 Num. 23. 19 P●a ●●●4 Is●i 4●. 1●. ●●. 11. ●8. Heb. 1. 12. jo●, 13. 1. Jer. 18. 8. The strength of Israel will not lie: He is not a man that he should repent. I am the Lord,( saith God) I change not. All the gifts and Callings of God are without repentance. With him there is no variableness, nor shadow of turning. He hath said, and it shall be done, he hath spoken it, and shall accomplish it. His counsel shall stand. Gods mercies Mans iniquities. GOds mercy i● Gods mere good will, and ready affection to forgive a penitent Psal. 103. 8. sinner, notwithstanding all his sins and ill deserts, and is nothing else but his Essence, which is One, and by which he is Wise, Just, and merciful altogether: Tit. 3. 4, 5. He then that will be a searcher of his mercy shall be overwhelmed with his glory: Now his Mercy proceedeth from his free Love towards us, which Prov. 25. 27. although it be extended towards all men in Misery, yet it is otherwise extended towards the Elect, then towards others; but yet it is so great to all, that it can neither be expressed, nor comprehended by us. Salvation and all the parts thereof are from the Mercy of God, his Mercy from his free Love, and his Love from his goodness. So that there is nothing in us to move God to Mercy, but that it proceedeth wholly from his mere Love and goodness, which is unspeakable in that he forgetteth not his mercy, neither will continue his mercy in wrath, and yet he forgetteth our iniquities. Psal. 77. 9. By his mercy he ministereth food to the hungry out of the earth: Beasts skins to the could and naked to cloth them: herbs and fruits out of the earth for medicine Psal. 104. for the sick: Thaweth things frozen in winter by the Suns heat: Moderateth things too hot in the day, by the coldness of the night; so that whatsoever Psal. 147. good thing is in the world, the same dependeth wholly on the mercy and goodness Matth. 5. 45. of the Lord; by which then it is plain and manifest, that all our merits and worthiness are excluded, so as that no other thing can be in us, but things miserable and sinful. There is a seven-●old mercy in God: A Preventing mercy: By which the Lord preserves the Elect from gross sin. A Forbearing mercy: Whereby the Lord waiteth for the sinners Conversion. An Altering mercy: Which makes a man settled in resolution of Holinesse. An embracing mercy: Whereby God assureth the Convert of his Mercies. A confirming mercy: Which strengtheneth the Righteous in his goodness. A hopeful mercy: Which sets man in Glories Expectation. A Crowning mercy: Wherein is Livery of the kingdom, and Possession. Note. After this life, notwithstanding the great mercy of God, there is no place for mercy in God left by which sins are remitted: For that Justice, whereby every one receiveth according to his deserts, doth possess all things there at the end of the world, both in them that are saved and destroyed. disobeyed Gods Commandement, being but one only, in eating; and having eaten fled from God calling them, and in stead of confessing their sin, the one laid it upon the Serpent, the other as it were on God himself, saying, The woman thou gavest me, gave me, &c. The serpent gave me, &c. and I did eat. Such yet was Gods mercy towards them, that he clothed them, being naked in body; and promised them the righteousness of Christ Jesus to cloth their naked souls. Abraham By the persuasion of Sarah his wife lay with Hagar her hand-maid, Gen. 16. Chap. 25. Chap. 12, Chap 20. 9. Chap. 11. kept divers Concubines, denied his wife two several times: was the son of an Idolater among the chaldeans, proceeding from the Hittites and Amorites. Such yet was Gods mercy towards him, as that he was the Father of the faithful called, and the man in whose seed all Nations of the earth should be blessed. committed idolatry by making the melted calf, spake against Moses, Exod. 32. Numb. 12. Ch. 10. 10. &c. and believed not the Lord at the waters of Meribah. Such yet was Gods mercy towards him, that he was made the High Priest unto the Lord, and so his posterity succeeded. Ahab That wicked King consented to the death of Naboth, took his Vineyard from his posterity, said the prophets prophesied not good unto him, called them his enemies, reared up an Altar for Baal, followed 1 Kin. 21. idolatry as the Amorites and Heathens: sold himself to do wickedness in the sight of the Lord, angering the Lord more 1 King. 22. 1 King. 16. then all the kings of Israel did before him. Such yet was Gods mercy towards him, that humbling of himself, the Lord with-held his plagues threatened. The Apostles forbade those that brought children to Christ, were hardened in Matth. 19. 13. Luk. 18. 15. Matth. 16. 5. joh. 6. mat. 26. 40. Mark 9. 38. Matth. 28. 17. Act. 1. 6. their hearts, not considering Christs miracles: were of little saith: some disdained the sons of Zebedem, others reasoned who should he greatest, some demanded what they should have for following Christ, showing their covetousness; others forbade them that in Christs Name cast out devils, showing their envy; some could not watch when he was betrayed, all forsook him, when he was apprehended, all made question for preferment, most of his resurrection doubted. Such yet was Gods mercy that they were all again received by Christ. The Corinthians Some of them were fornicators, others Idolaters, some Adulterers, others wantons, some buggers, others thieves, some drunkards, 1 Cor. 6. 10, 11, &c. 1 Cor. 6. 5. others covetous persons, some railers, others extortioners, and such like; not a wise man to be found almost among them, saith Saint Paul. Such yet was Gods mercy towards them, as that they were in Christ sanctified, and justified by the Spirit of the Lord. David 1. Made a lie to Ahimelech the Priest, took showbread, and Goliah's 1 Sam. 21. sword, by means whereof Ahimelech with fourscore and five others that wore the 〈◇〉 Ephod were put to death by Saul. He Chap. 22. 14. companied with men of all sorts, being captain over them in his trouble. He feigned himself to be mad unto king Achish, lying unto 1 Sam. 27. him, and living with him being an Idolater, dissembled with him in his pretence to go to battle against the Israelites: He disinherited God, saying, he should die by the sword of Saul: He swore 1 Sam. 29. Chap. 27. 1. he would not leave one of Nabals house to piss against the wall. Such yet was Gods mercy that he delivered him out of the hand of Saul, and made him King over all Israel. 2. He committed adultery w●th Uriahs wife, caused Uriah to be made drunk, thinking thereby that he would have lain with his wife, and so his shane should have been covered: He caused Uriah to be slain, by commanding him to be placed in the forefront of the battle, David &c. Being slain, he dissembled the same to the Messenger that brought him tidings thereof, saying, The sword devoureth one as well 2 Sam. 11. 25. as another. Such yet was Gods mercy towards him, that he no sooner said to 2 Sam. 12 13. Nathan, I have sinned: but Nathan said, The Lord hath put away thy sin, thou shalt not die. 3. He was angry with the Lord for slaying Uzzah: He gave the land of 2 Sam. 6 8. 2 Sam. 19. 30. 2 Sam. 24. 2 Sam. 15. 16. Psal. 30. 6. Psal. 116. 11. Psal. 31. 22. Psal. 77. 10. Mephibosheth unto Z●ba Mephihosheths servant without just cause: He numbered his people in his pride, and said he should never be moved: He had ten Concubines besides several wives: He said in his affliction that all men were liars, and that he had cleansed his heart in vain: and in his hast that he was cast out of Gods sight, and that God had forgotten to be merciful, &c. yea so, as he said in despair, This is my death, &c. Such yet was Gods mercy towards him, as that he never took his loving kindness from him. Elijah Being sought after by jezebel, impatiently said that It is now enough: Oh Lord, take my Soul, I am no better then my fathers; as also wrongfully condemned many of Gods children, saying, I only am lest and 1 King. 19. 4. 10. they seek my life to take it away; whereas God himself confessed to have many thousands, &c. and so desiring to die. The Lord in mercy sent his angel to relieve him, and by his own voice and presence, showing himself, comforted him. Hezekiah Gave all the silver that was in the Lords house unto king Ashur, with the gold that the doors and pillars were overlaid withall; 2 Kin. 18. 15. shewed in his pride all his treasures to the king of Babels Messengers: Chap. 20. 13. was restored to his health, and was not thankful having fifteen yeares added to his dayes. 2 Chron. 31. Such yet was Gods mercy towards him, that God threatening his Treasures and posterity should be carried into Babel, promised Isai. 39. that there should be peace in his dayes. jacob lied three times to his Father, saying, he was Esau, changed his Gen. 27. garments, dissembled with his Father, and by deceit got the blessing Chap. 31. from his brother, stayed twenty yeares from his Father undutifully Chap. 29. without visiting him: had two wives, besides his wives Chap. 30. handmaids. Such yet was Gods mercy towards him, that he made choice of him Rom. 9. before Esau his elder brother before he was born, Mal. 1. joseph Undutifully stayed from jacob his Father twenty yeares, forgetting his fathers household, he dissembled with his brethren, making as Gen. 31. 38. though he knew them not, he termed them Spies: he imprisoned Chap. 41. 51. them three dayes: he swore again and again by the life of Pharaoh( forgetting God) he dealt deceitfully with his brethren, by causing Chap. 4●. his silver cup to be put into Benjamins sack: He accused them of Theft: he said he could divine by his Cup: he was angry with Chap. 44. his father for blessing his younger son before the elder. Chap. 48. 17. Such yet was Gods mercy towards him, as that he lived and dyed in ●gypt land, a man in great favour and reputation. judah Lay with Tamar his daughter in law, judging her to be a whore, by whom he had Pharez: from whose descent Christ by the great Gen. 38. mercy of God unto mankind descended. Matth. 1. Ioshua Envied Eldad and Medad, because they prophesied: he rent his Numb. 11. 27. clothes, impatiently demanding of the Lord, why he had brought the Israelites over Jordan to deliver them into the hands of the Amorites: and wished that he had been content to have dwelled on the other side of Jordan; such was his infideline, that he questioned if the Lord would give the Israelites, as he had promised, the land of Canaan. josh. 7. Such yet was Gods mercy that he encouraged him to go over Jordan, and gave him courage to prove a valiant captain. Fled from Gods presence to Tarshish, for which being cast into the sea; the Lord in his mercy provided a Fish to save him, and in jonah 1. Chap. 2. time of heat, a Gourd to shadow him. Being heathens, calling on their idol god in the storm to help them; Chap. 4. 2. 11. jonah 1. The Lord yet in his mercy saved them. job Cursed the day of his birth, desired God to destroy him, and to cut job 6. 9. him off, wished that he had perished, so that no eye had seen him, Chap. 7. 15. complained against God, as having too much laid on him, yea, as Chap. 3. though he would have sued him upon an action of Battery, in that Chap. 10. 3. he said, Oh that one might pled with God, as a man pleadeth for his Chap. 13. 23. neighbour. He said that God was his enemy, charging him injustly. Chap. 16. 21. Such yet was Gods mercy towards him, as that he blessed his latter Chap. 3●. 21. Chap. 32. 2. Chap ●4 5. Chap. 4●. dayes, more then the first. Complained that the Lord had filled him with indignation, and that he was unto him as a liar, and as waters that fail, said that God had deceived him, and that he was deceived, and that he would jer. 15. make no more mention of the Name of the Lord: He cursed the day wherein he was born, and the man that told his father that Chap. 20. 7. a man-child was born unto him: He wished that his mother Chap. 38. might have been his grave, and her womb a perpetual conception. And lied unto Zedekiahs princes as Zedekiah willed him. Ch 39. 11. &c. Such yet was Gods mercy towards him, as being in captivity he continued a Prophet, and was well entreated by the enemy. jehoahaz The son of jehu wrought evil in the sight of the Lord, and followed 2 King. 13. the si●s of jeroboam. Yet such was Gods mercy unto him, as being in captivity, he no sooner called on him, but he delivered him. The Israelites Were continually murmuring against God: They caused Aaron to jer. 3. 1, 13, &c Ezek. 16. 8 make them a golden calf to worship, which they worshipped: Exod. 23. Isai. 4●. 3. Se●ved the gods of the Heathens and Zidonians, daily provoking judge. 2. Isa. 10. 25.& 43. 24. the Lord by their abominations. Chap. 3. 10. Such yet was Gods mercy towards them, that whensoever they were jer. 31. 3, 4. jer. 3. 1. 5. 7. in Tribulation, calling upon him, he delivered them, yea, and said judge. 10. 16. that his soul was grieved for them. Psal. 78. ●0. The Jews Persecuting Christ, mocking, reviling, and crucifying him. Such yet was his Love and mercy towards them, that he prayed his Luk. 23. Father in his passion to forgive them. Jerusalem Stoned the Prophets, and slay them that were sent unto her, was full of iniquity and sin: Such yet was Gods mercy towards her, that if one man had been found therein that did execute Judgement, jer. 5. 1. and seek after the Truth, he would have spared it. Ezek. 22. 30. And Being foreseen by Christ that it should be destroyed, yea so, as that the enemy should not leave a ston upon a ston: Such was his mercy Luk. 19. 41. towards it, that he wept for it, and gave them forty yeares, to see if they would repent, before it was destroyed by Titus and Vespasian. Cain Being wrath with his brother, because his deeds were good: being admonished Gen. 3. from heaven to take heed of sinning, regarded not the word of the Lord, but slay his brother, denying, being demanded 1 joh. 3. ●2. of the Lord, that he knew what was become of him. Such yet was Gods mercy towards him, as that he spared his life, having for his ●act deserved present death, accusing God to have ●aid Chap. 4. 24. more on him then he could bear, his punishment was but such as that wicked Lamech boasted of Gods sufferance towards him. miriae Speaking against Moses, became leprous. Such yet was Gods mercy that Moses no sooner entreated God, but she Numb. 12. was cleansed. Magdalene Was a sinful woman possessed with seven devils. Such yet was Christs compassion, that he cast them all out, and made Luk. 8. 2. her the first witness of his Resurrection. joh. ●0. 14. Moses Excused himself three times to the Lord, as one unwilling to go to Exod. 3. 11. Pharaoh, as the Lord commanded him: neglected to circumcise Chap. 4. 10. his son: impatiently demanded of the Lord, why he had so sent Chap. 6. 30. him to Pharaoh &c. complained that the Lord vexed him, and that Chap. 4. 24. he found no favour in his sight. Believed not that God should Chap. 5. 22. feed the people with flesh, as he had promised, or that he could Numb. 1●. 11. bring waters out of the rocks, as he had said. Chap. 20. 10. Such yet was Gods mercy towards him, as that he had eye-sight clear to behold all the land of Canaan from the top of Nebo Deut. 34. mountain: with natural strength at his end not abated: and so dyed, and was by an angel butted. Manasseh Did evil after the abomination of the Heathen, who worshipped the host of Heaven: Caused his sons to pass through the fire: gave himself to witchcraft and to sorcery, caused the people to do 2 King. 21. 2 Chron. 35. more wickedly then the Heathens: shed much innocent blood, replenished Jerusalem from corner to corner, making Judah to sin besides his own sin. Such yet was Gods mercy towards him being in captivity, that he 2 Chron. 33. no sooner humbled himself for his sin, but the Lord heard him, and restored him to his kingdom again. Matthew A publican at the receipt of custom, was by Gods mercy called by Matth. 9. Luk. 5. Luk. 19. Christ to be an Apostle, and Zacheus another publican had by Christ Salvation brought unto him. nabuchadnezzar Did set up a golden image to be worshipped: caused the three children to be cast into a fiery furnace for not worshipping his image: In his pride boasted of great Babel that the had built:& proudly demand, Dan. 3. Chap. 9. 9. Chap. 4. 24. who was that God that could deliver out of his hands, &c. Such yet was Gods mercy towards him, that being cast out of his kingdom to live with the beasts for a time, the Lord at seven yeares end restored him to his kingdom again. Dan. 4. Naaman By the mercy of God was of all the Lepers in Israel cleansed. 2 King. 5. Nineveh By the mercy of God had forty dayes given, and they repentd. jonah 2. The Old World By the mercy of God had 120. yeares to repent, ere he brought the flood. Gen. 7. The prodigal Consumed his goods ritously on harlots; yet no sooner returned, Luke 15. but that he was by his Father met, embraced, received and entertained. The patriarches Hated joseph casting him into a pit; sold him to the Midianites; Gen. 38. Chap. 37. Chap. 34. Chap. 39. persuaded their Father that he was slain by some wild beast: Reuben the eldest lay with his fathers Concubine: judah with his daughter in law: Simeon and Levi slay the Shechemites, and the rest of their Brethren consented thereunto carrying away their goods. Such yet was the mercy of God towards them, that he choose them to be the heads of all the Tribes of Israel. Pharaohs Heart being hardened, so as he would not let the Israelites depart, having Exod. 8. several plagues brought on him: Questioning to Moses, Who was the Lord? Such yet was the mercy of God towards him, as he no sooner said, he Chap. 9. Chap. 10. 19. had sinned, requesting Moses to pray for him, but the Lord took away the plagues brought upon him. Peter Rebuked Christ, foretelsing of his death: denied him, swore that Matth. 14. 28. Chap. 26. 56. he knew him not again and again. Such yet was Gods mercy towards him, as that Christ prayed that his faith might not fail him. Luk. 22. Paul Persecuted the Christians, shutting them up in prison, punished them throughout the Synagogues, compelled them to blaspheme Christ, was a blasphemer, a persecuter, an oppressor; breathed out threatenings Act. 22. 4, 19. & 26. 11. Act. 26. 101 1 Tim. 1. 13. Tit. 3. 3. Act. 9. Chap. 8. 3. Chap. 9. 1, 2. Gal. 1. 23. 1 Tim. 1. 16. and slaughters against the Disciples of the Lord; made havoc of the Church that followed God; Gave sentence against many that were put to death for the Gospels sake, as also consented to the death of the Martyr Saint Steven. Such yet was the mercy of God towards him as that Christ from Heaven called him, converted him, and of a bloody persecutor, made him a faithful Preachet. 1 Tim. 1. 13, 16. Publicans and Sinners By the mercy of God were permitted to sit and eat with Christ, Luk. 9. 11. Luk. 15. 2. though the Pharisees were offended thereat with him: Christ coming to call them. Rahab A common harlot was of all Jericho with hers preserved. josh. 6. Rachel stolen her fathers idols, hide them, made a lye in concealing them: gave Gen. 30. Chap. 31. Chap. 35. her handmaid unto her husband: to whom she said, Give me children, or else I die: boasted of her evil in giving her handmaid unto her husband, &c. The Lord in mercy yet gave her children, after that she had been a long time barren. sodom and Gomorrah Abounded in fullness and idleness, burning in lust one with the Ezek. 16. other, of which Saint Paul saith, that the men left the natural use of the women, and man with man wrought filthiness, so that Rom. 1. 27. their cry went up to Heaven. Such yet was the mercy of God, that he would go down and set, if they had done according to the cry that came up unto him, before he would destroy them: As also heard Abrahams request seven times for them, so that if ten righteous persons had been found Gen. 19. therein, the city had been spared, and not destroyed. Salomon Had many outlandish women to his wives of nations that God had forbidden the Israelites to take in marriage, to the number of seven hundred, with three thousand concubines: his heart was not perfect with God as was David his fathers: He followed Ashteroih the god of the Zidonians, and Milcom the god of the Amorites: 1 King. 11. Chap. 12. He wrought wickedness in the sight of the Lord in building high places for the god of the Zidonians and Ammonites. Such yet was Gods mercy towards him, that he promised that he would not rent his kingdom from him in his dayes; neither 2 Sam. 7. 14. would rent all the kingdom from his son that succeeded him. Samson Kept company with a whore called Delilab: to whom he revealed where his strength lay, whereby the vow of a Nazarite made by him was broken. Such yet was Gods mercy towards him, being fallen into the hands of the Philistines, as that he heard his prayer, and increased his judge. 16. strength, so as he pulled down the house on the Philistitues his enemies. Thomas Forsook Christ when he was betrayed: believed not that he was risen from death, unless it might be on condition, that he might Matth. 26. 69. put his finger into the prints of his nailes. Such yet was Gods mercy towards him, that Christ granted the Conditions joh. 20. 24. made by him, to save him. The thief On the cross no sooner said, Lord, remember we when thou comest into thy Knogdome: but Christ in mercy answered, This dayshalt Luk. 23. thou be with me in Paradise. The Vineyard That yielded not fruit, albeit all was done to it, that could be done, yet the Lord in Mercy would forebeare yet three yeares more, to Luk. 13. see if it would bring forth, ●re he would pluck it up, and destroy it. The Woman Taken in adultery, and brought before Christ by many, who accused her, thereby to have moved Christ to have condemned her. John 8. 3. In mercy Christ put all her accusers to silence, and sent her away without condemning her. Zacharias believed not that his wife should bear a son, as he was told by the Angel of the Lord. And yet God in mercy according to the time appointed, gave him a son called John. Luke 1. All mankind Having deserved death and damnation by the fall of Adam. Rom. 8. 32. joh. 3. 16. Gal. 3. 13.& 4. 4 1 Tim. 1. 13.1 John 3. 1 joh. 4. 9. Such yet was the unspeakable mercy of God and love towards man, that when nothing could make satisfaction for the sin of Man, he sent his own only Son to die to tendeem mankind, who also most Tit. 3. 3. willingly in compassion of man took death upon him to save all those that would believe in him. Lam. 3. 22. Use. 1. The mercy of God is from his free love towards us; then by no merit. 2. We should not grieve at any calamity, seeing God hath a care of our misery. 3. Seeing the name Mercy is given to God, none can be more merciful then God. 4. It should teach us in our calamity, to fly to no other but to God. job 33. 27. 5. Our Salvation is to be ascribed to Gods love as the fountain of mercy. 6. Seeing his mercy is from his Love, we should never despair in our sins; which men would not, if they did but perceive his goodness unto them. 1. By his hearing of them before they cry: I will answer, saith the Lord. Isai. 65. 24. Ezek. 18. 31, 32. 2. By making ●s though he saw not the sins of men, that they might amend. 3. By his unwillingness in striking: He taketh no pleasure in the death of a sinner. 4. Lastly, seeing his mercy is but for this life to the pardoning of si●s, we ought not to abuse the same by deferring our Repentance: The spring of Repentance may be dried up, the hand of Faith may be withered, the ●ye of hope blind, Isa. 55. 6 〈…〉 H●b. 3. 15. the foot of charity lame: To day hear his voice, and make him thine: Y●sterday is lost, to day may be gotten, but that once gone, and thou with it, when thou art dead and judged, it will be too late. Use. Ioel 2. 14. God Is a merciful God, slow to anger, and of great kindness, abundant in Joel 2. ●●. Exod. 34. 7. Deut. 4. 31. Psal. 86. 14. goodness, repenting for the evil that he threateneth to bring upon sinners that turn unto him. read of Gods Love. read of Gods Patience. Be ye then merciful as your Father is merciful: for he will have mercy and not Rom. 2. 4. 〈◇〉 ●. ●●. H 〈…〉 Matth 9. 13. Sacrifice. Gods mercies Are over all his works shewed to thousands to them that love him. Are reserved for thousands: forgiving transgressions and sins. Are his paths to such as keep his Testimonies, enduring for ever. Are everlasting, and reacheth unto the very heavens. Are so great to them that fear him, as the heavens are high above the earth. Are such as he would have no man to perish, but all to repent. Are unspeakable in quickening those that are dead in sins. His wrath endureth but the twinkling of an eye, &c. Gods mercy appeareth, saying, As far as the East is from the West, so far have I removed thy sins. As a Father hath compassion on his children, so have I on them that fear me. Psal 103. 1●. Ezek. 18. 3●. 〈…〉 Matth. 12. ●. Isai▪ ●●. 24. Isai. 49. 15. Ezek. 33. 11. As I live, I desire not the death of the wicked. A bruised Reed will I not break, nor quench the smoking flax. before they call, I will answer; and whilst they speak, I will hear. ●an a wo 〈…〉 forget her child? yet will I not forget thee. Cast away your transgressions, &c. For why will you die? For a little while I have forsaken thee, but with great compassion will I gather thee; for a moment in mine anger I hide my face from thee, Isai. 54. 7. but with everlasting mercy will I have compassion on thee. I have put away thy transgressions like a cloud, and sins as a mist. Isai 44. 2●. Ezek. 18. ●1. I have no desire that the wicked should die: he shall live, if he return. If One say, I have sinned and perverted righteousness: God will deliver his s●ul from going into the pit, and his life shall see the light. Lo▪ all job 33. 27, 28, 29. these things will God work once or twice with a man( that is, as often as a sinner doth repent) for that the Lord maketh as though he Wi●d. 11. ●●. 〈◇〉 3●. ●. saw not the sins of men▪ because they should amend. Oh that there were in you a heart to fear me, and to keep my Commandements, Deut. 5. 29. Isai. 48. 18. Isai. 1. 16. that it might go well with you, and yours. Wash you, make you clean, take away the evil from your works, cease to do evil, &c. though your sins were as crimson, they shall be made white as snow. The mountaines shall remove, and the hills shall fall down, but my mercy Isai. 54. 10. shall not depart from thee. If plagues come upon thee: if thou return, I will have mercy. Deut. 4. Ezek. 18. ●1. Isai. ●●. 18. A●● 2▪ ●●. If the wicked turn from his sins, &c. he shall live. Yet therefore will I wait, that I may have compassion on thee. It is the Lords mercy that we are not consumed, because his compassions Lam. 3. 2●. 31, 32. Isa. 26. ●0. Jo●l 2. 13 Micah 7. 18, 19▪ 10. fail not: yet let mercies be shewed to the wicked he will not learn righteousness. Christ Healed corporally, Lame, blind, lunatic, leprous, &c. Matth. 14. 14. He cleanseth leprous men by contagion of sin, by the merits of his death. He clotheth poor needy and men want of help with his grace. He enableth lame men by imperfection: by the strength of Hope. He illuminateth blind men by ignorance: by the light of Faith. he corporally fed the multitude with bread and fishes. Matth. 15. 32. He spiritually feedeth Hungerers after righteousness with his Body. He willeth all that are thirsty, to take of him the water of life freely. He stands and knocks, if any will open, he will sup with him. He knocks Christ is in By his Mercies, but they are abused. Words, but they are contemned. By his Judgements, but they are misconstrued. Motions, but they are choked. Who to the unspeakable Comfort of sinners is found in his Person most excellent, ●●tience most neerlesse, Impo●tunity most affectionate, Demand most squall, Promise most liberal, being the Lord of life, then fear not. expecting our amendment, then defer not. waking us out of our sins, then sleep not. that we should open unto him, then exclude it not. assuring us his favour, then despise it not. He hath born our infirmities, and carried our sorrows: He was wounded for our transgressions, and broken for our infirmities; the chastisement of Peace was upon him, with his stripes we are healed. His Love and mercy, in a word, was such towards man, as that his pity was ever pardoning, his wisdom ever teaching: His Liberality ever giving: and his Compassion ever helping. And therefore saith, Come unto me all ye that are laden, &c. and I will ease you. Matth. 11. 28. Chap. 29. 10. Luk. 19. 10. I will have mercy not sacrifice: I came to call sinners, &c. I came to seek and to save that which was lost. Man altered was by sin from Man to beast: Eph. 5. 2. Beasts food is hay: Hay is all mortal flesh: God was made flesh, who lay in manger prest, As hay the brutish sinner to refresh. Oh happy field, wherein this fodder grew, Whose taste doth us from beasts to men renew. Isai. 48. 9. Chap. 5 1. 6. Chap. 55. 7. Chap. 57. 16. Chap. 61. 1. Chap. 63. 9 jer. ●. 1. Chap. 15. 19. Ch. 24. 7. Lam. 3 31. jer. 31. 20. job 33. 27. 2 Sam. 7. 13 Cha. 9. 1. Exod. 33. 19. Psal. 30. 5. Psal. 94. 18. Psal. 103. 8, 9. Psal. 136. Ioel 2. 12. Luk. 1. 50. Rom. 11. 30. Heb. 13. 5. Ecclus. 35. 19. Deut. 30. 1. read of Gods Patience. Wisdom. 11. 23, ●4. A Catalogue of Gods blessings bestowed on divers Godly Persons. Through the Love of God Had given Adam The righteousness of Christ promised unto him. Gen. 3. Chap. 4. Gen. 12. 1. Gen. 13. 1●. Chap. 14. 4. Gen. 17. 6. Chap. ●4. 1▪ 35. 1 Sam 1. Act 2. Mo●ths, Matth. Luk. 21. 15. Act. Act. 18. 24. And a godly Seth in stead of Abel given Abraham Riches, cattle, silver and gold, as also was promised that Kings should come of him: and that he should be blessed in all that was taken in hand by him. Anna Samuel: a son according as she prayed him The Apostles The Holy Ghost, sent down upon them, accordingly as Christ before his Ascension promised them: as also the gift of healing, and doing of Miracles among men. Apollos Eloquence and mightiness in the Scriptures, so that he spake servently in the spirit in all good things. In stead of a sheep-fold a kingdom, and favour with king 1 Sam. 16. Psal 78. 70. 2 Sam. 22. 29, 35, 40. ● Chron. 17. 8. Psal. 16. 4. Psal. ●8. 32. ● Chron. 17. 8. Dan. 2. Cha 4. Chap. 8. Chap. 5. 12, 29. A●hish: Light for his darkness: gladness for his heart: rejoicing for his tongue: Rest in hope for his flesh, feet like hinds feet, with valiantness in war: prudency in matters: strength to gird him, comeliness of person, and a name like great men. Daniel The understanding of dreams: and by an Angel the revelation of many hidden things, together with great honour by several kings. Had given Demetrius Good report of all men: and above all the knowledge of 3 John 12. the truth of Gods word revealed unto him. Elias Ravens, an Angel, and a widow in time of famine to relieve 1 Kin. 17. 7. Chap. 19. 2 Kings 2. 1 King. 19. 19. him, in part a sight of God in a vision, and Chariots to carry him from earth to heaven. Elisha The spirit of Elias doubled upon him, so that he became the Lords Prophet of a plough-man. Elizabeth A son, and that in her old age, called John. Lak. 1. 1●. Ezekiel The sight of glorious visions upon the chariots of Cherubims. Ecclus. 49. Hezekiah Health, with fifteen years more unto his daies. 2 Ki. 20. Act. ●●. 18 Ecclus. 44. Gen. 30. 42. Chap. 15. 11. Chap. 26. 12. Gen. 30. 4. Chap. 35. 11. Chap. 32. 24. Gen. 40. Chap 41. Psal. 105. 21. Gen▪ 48. 22. Deut. 34. 9. josh. 4. 14. Chap. 6. 27. Chap. 14. 11. Job 11. 10. Ch. ●4. 32 Chap. 42. 2 Chron 17. Isai. 50. 4. jer. 39. 8. Psal. 84. 7. Psal. 147. 19. Exod. 15. Chap 16. Luk 2. 26. Revel. 1. Enoch Translation: So that the Lord took him up into heaven. Isaac Possessions of flocks, of Herds, and great store of servants, with a blessing in his seed after him for all Nations, Christ being to come from him. jacob Increase of much cattle, man-servants, maid-servants, Camels and Asses, with strength in wrestling with an Angel, so that he got a blessing by prevailing. joseph wisdom to expound Pharaohs dreams: Lordship over Pharaobs house and all his substance: obedience from his Princes, and wisdom to teach his ancients, with a portion above his brethren by jacob given. Ioshua The spirit of wisdom, magnificence in the sight of all the people: a famed throughout all the country with valiantness in war to fight the Lords battle from time to time, so as no man could withstand him. job Patience to bear all his afflictions, hope in death, and all his riches at the first lost, doubled at the last. Jehoshaphat Riches, honours, and a kingdom established. Isaiah The tongue of the Learned, to comfort the wearied. jeremiah Favour with Nebuchadnozzar, by whom he was relieved. The Israelites Strength upon strength to grow in Gods Word, Statutes and Judgements shewed them before all other Nations among them, as also his Presence to go before them, with Manna from heaven. John Baptist The Holy Ghost from his mothers womb to fill him. John Divine In the Isle Patmos by an Angel the Revelation. Lot Flocks, herds of cattle, and Tents in abundance: So that the land could not bear him and Abraham together inhabiting Gen. 13. without their Herdsmens contention. Lazarus An Angel to carry him into Abrahams bosom. Luk. 16. Exod. 2. Act. 7. 22. Deut. 34. 7. &c. Esth. 10. Luk. 1. 30. Gen 6. Moses Miraculous preservance at his birth, favour with Pharaohs daughter to preserve his life: with such strength at his death, as that his natural force was not abated, or eyesight diminished. Mordecai Exaltation: so as he became the second to the King. Mary Favour with God and man, being blessed above women. Noah An Ark, when all else perished, to preserve him. Prophets The spirit of prophesy, to foretell things to come. Ezek. 37. Joel 2. 18. Act. 9. 20.& 13. 9. 2 Cor. 12. 2 Tim. 4. 8. Luk. 22. 32. Ruth 4. 10. Gen. 17. 6. 1 Kin. 4 30. 1 Kin. 3. 12. Chap. 4. 2 Chron. 9. 27. judge. 16. Chap. 16. judge. 3. Luk. 2. 26. 1 Sam. 2. Ch. 12. Prophets zeal to execute his Apostleship; Grace to withstand his temptations; The sight of an unspeakable vision, with a Crown of glory in Heaven. Peter The prayer of Christ, that his faith might not fail him. Ruth Favour in the eyes of Boaz, being married to him. Sarah In her old age a son: from whose seed Christ came. Salomon wisdom, excelling all others: A heart even as the seashore, rest on every side, with riches in such abundance, as he gave silver as stones, and Cedars as wild fig-trees that grow in the valleys. Samson Strength, so as he slay a thousand Philistines with an Asses Jaw-bone, as also pulled the house on the Philistines. Shamgar Courage, so that he slay with a Goad six hundred men. Simcon A Revelation: and the embracing of Christs Person. Samuel Favour with God and man: with freedom of extortion. fullness of Faith and power, by which he did great miracles Act. 6. 8. among men: and at his death saw Christ sit at the right hand of God in Heaven. Chap 7. Luk 22. Luk. 19. 9. Luk 2. 40, 52. 2 Pet. 1 Cor. 1. 17. 1. 30. One thief Faith at the last, by which he attained Salvation. Zacheus Salvation by Christ, who brought it unto him. Christ As he was a man, increase of wisdom and Stature. fullness of wisdom, strength in Spirit, the Grace of God, and favour with God and man, who of God is made unto us righteousness, wisdom, Sanctification and Redemption. The Lord A Crown for the King: Honor for the great man: strength for the mighty man: wealth for the rich man: knowledge for the learned man: and peace for the mean man. upholdings for them that fall, and liftings up for them that are down. He openeth his hands, and fills all things living with plenteousness. Psal. 145. 14, 15 The Lord will bless the righteous: with favour will he compass him as with a shield. Psal. 5. 12. signs of Confirmation given by God to Godly men. signs have been given by God unto many to confirm them in the Word, howbeit Psal. 86. 17. they were not more excellent then the Word. For a sign Had given from God Adam The three of Life: Abraham fire from God. Gen. 3. Cha. 15. Ch. 24. Num 17. Isai. 7. 11. Act. 2. Deut. 28 1 Sam. 17. judge. 6. Chap. 7. 2 Ki 20. josh. 10 1 Sam. 14. Exo. 13. Nū, 21 joh. 1. 33. Ezek. 9. 4. John 5. Exod. 4. Gen. 9. joh. 2●. josh. 2. Luk. 2. 16. Luk. 2. 26. Matth. 2 2, 9. Luke 1. 10. Psal. 86. 17. Mark 16. 17. Matth. 12. 40. His Petition granted: Aarons rod budded. Ahaz T●dings of a virgin that should bear a son. The Apostles Fiery Tongues: blessings follow godly men. David The victory over a bear and a Lion. Gideon A fleece wet, a dream told, and fire out of a ston. Hezekiah The Sun to go back: Ioshua to stand still. jonathan What he propounded to himself against the Philistines. The Israelites Unleavened bread, with a brazen serpent erected. John Baptist Notice how to know Christ by the Spirit descended. Godly men Marks set on them, thereby to know them. Diseased men An Angel to trouble the water at a certain season. Moses A rod to do Miracles: Noah the Rain-bow. Peter A draft of Fishes: Rabab a chord at her window. The Shepherds Christ laid in a Cratch, as the Angels told them. Simcon By the Holy Ghost a Revelation given him. The wise men A star to conduct them to Christ at Bethlehem. Zacharias dumbness for a time, to help his unbelieving. Christ Said, That he that believed in him should cast out devils in his Name: That as jonah was in the belly of the Fish three dayes, so should he be in the earths bowels: That many should come in his name, saying, I am Christ, &c. That before his second Matth. 14. Luke 2. 34. joh. 13. 19. Luke 2. 34. Rom. 4. 11. joh. 20. 27. coming they should hear of wars: That he would destroy the Temple and raise it again: That he was for the rising and falling of many: And received the sign of Circumcision himself as the seal of the righteousness of Faith which was in him. The Apostles confirmed their works with signs and wonders. Mark 16. 20. 2 Cor. 12. 12. Dan. 4. 3. Great are the signs of the Lord, and mighty are his wonders. read Gen. 21. 27. Chap. 31. 51. Chap. 17. 12. Exod. 3. 2. Numb. 16. 38. Deut. 6. 8. Chap. 18. 22. josh. 3. 10. 1 Sam. 2. 34. Chap. 10. 2. Chap 17. 12. 2 Sam. 5. 24. Isai. 20. 3. Chap. 66. 19. jer. 19. 1, 10. Chap. 24. 1. Chap. 43 10. Chap 44. 22. Chap. 51. 63. Ezek. 4. 12. Chap. 1●. 4. Chap. 20. 12. Chap 24 16. 1 King. 13. 3. 2 King. 13. 18 Chap. 19. ●9. Amos 8. 2. Matth 26. 48. Numb. 15. 39. Chap. 16. 38. Chap. 17. 10. 2 King. 1●. 18. 1 Cor 14. 22. Psal. 104. 19. John 1. 50 Chap 4. 7. Chap. 24. 27. job. 13. 19. Chap. 14. 29. Chap. 16. 4. josh. 3. 10. Matth. 14. 28 Chap. ●6. 4. jer. 32. 14, 20, 21. Cha 51. 63. Ezek. 12. 18, 19. Chap. 24. 17. Ezek. 7. 23. Psal. 109. 16. joh. 2. 19.& 13. 19. Luk. 2. 34. Titles of Honour given unto the Israelites. The Israelites were called Children of Abraham, 2 Chro. 11. children of Israel, 1 Chro. 16. Children of the Prophets, Act. 3. 25. Children of Zion. Ioel 2. 23. A chosen Generation, 1 Pet. 2. 9. The Congregation of jacob, Deut. 33. 4 Gods Anointed, Ps. 105. 15 B●loved, jer. 11. 5. chief treasure, Ps. 135. 4. Chosen, Isai. 45. 4. Elect, dear sons, Exo. 4. 22. First-borne, Id●m. First-fruits, jer. 2. 3. Friends, Isai. 41. 8. House, Num. 12. 7. Inheritance, Isa 19. 25 Pleasant child, jer. 31. 20 Servants, Isai 41. 8. Vineyard, Isai. 5. 7. Witnesses, Isai. 43. 10 People, Exod. 6. 7. ancient People, Deut. 7. 6. Holy People, Idem. Pr●tious People, Deut 14. 2. Honourable People, Isai. 43. 4. The Israelites were called A people set at liberty, 1 Pet. 2. 9. Hebrews of Eber, Gen. 10. 21. Israelites of jacob, Gen. 32. 28. Jews of judah, 2 Cor. 11. 24. A holy Flock, Ezek. 36. ●8. A holy Nation, Exod. 19. 6. The house of Israel, jer. 31. 33. A kingdom of Priests, Exod. 19. 6. The lot of Gods Inheritance, Deut. 32. 4. The Lords Portion, Idem. natural branches, Rom. 11. 21. Noble Vine, jer. 2. ●1. The rod of Gods Inheritance, jer. 10. 16. The seed of The Lord, jer. ●. 9. The seed of Abraham, 2 Cor. 11. 22. The seed of Israel, 1 Chron. 16. sons of the living God, Hos. 1. 10. The Virgin of Israel, jer. 18. 13. The work of Gods hand, Isai. 10. 25. And they are compared unto An Olive three, Rom. 11. 17. A green Olive-tree, jer. 11. 16. A green Fig-tree, Hos. 14 9. Trees of Lebanon, Hos. 14. 6. lilies, Idem. These are they whom the Lord choose to be a precious people unto himself Deut. ●. 6▪ 7. &c. Ez●k. 1●. 6▪ &c. above all the people that were on the face of the earth, and that because he loved them, as also for the oath made to Abraham, and the Forefathers of them. To these people appertained the Adoption, and the glory, and the Covenants, Rom. 9. 5. and the giving of the Law, and the Service of God, and the Promises. From these people are the Fathers: and from them as concerning the flesh, Chap. 9. 6. jer. 12. 7. Christ came, who is over all, God blessed for ever, Amen. Comforts for Repentant sinners: drawn from Gods mercy to sinners. Art thou guilty of So were An accusing Conscience for sin: Adam and Eve, Gen. 3. ●. David, 2 Sam. 12. 13. Cha. 24 judah, Gen. 38. 23. job, Chap. 13. 26. jonah, Ch. 1. 12. The patriarches, Gen. 42. 21. and the Jews, Act. 2. 37. blasphemy, 1 Tim. 1. 1●. 2 Sam. 11. Numb. 20. ●4. 1 Kin. 13. 1 King. ●1. Exod. 16▪ 20. 2 Sā. 15. Gal. 2. 13. Gen. 34. Chap. 39. Gen. 12. 31. 1 Sam. 23. Gen. 45. 26. Luk. 11. 18. Gen. 45. 5. Exo. ●. 9. 1 Cor. 6. 9. N●h. 5. Mark 6. 52. buggery: Some of the Corinthians: and were cleansed, 1 Cor. 6. 6. drunkenness: Lot, Gen. 1●. Noah, Gen. 9. Uriah and David, Adam and Eve, Gen. 3. 17. Moses and Aaron, jonah, Chap. 1. and the Prophet seduced, Paul, Tit. 3. 3. Samson, judge. 16. 18. Salomon, The children of Israel very often, Dissimulation: David, 2 Sam. 11. 25. Hushai, P●ter and Barnaba●, Disdainfulnes. The Apostles, Matth. 20. Rachel, and the patriarches, Distrust and infidelity: Adam and Eve, Gen. 3. Abraham and Sarah, Aaron and Moses, Numb. ●0. with king David, Isaac, Gen. 26. Ioshua, Chap. 7. 7. jacob, Thomas, Joh. 20. and Zacharias the Priest, Together with the patriarches and Israelites. Extortion: Some of the Corinthians and Israelites, hardness of Heart: Some of the Apostles concerning Christs miracles. idolatry: Abraham, Josh 24. 2. Aaron, and the Israelites, Exod. ●2. Gen. 31. 1 Cor. 12. 2. 2 Ch. 33. Ge. 40. Exod. 1● Gen. 38. 1 Cor. 5. Salomon, 1 King. 11. Rachel and Manass●h, Iacobs household, joseph and Moses who lived in Egypt with Pharaoh and idolaters, Incest: Lot, Gen. 19. judah, and the incestuous man, Barnabas and Paul, Act. 15. ●●. David. 1 Sam. 25. Justifying ●hy self: so was job, Chap 33 9. 1 Sam. 17. Gen. 4●. 9. Gen. 27. Elias, 1 King. 19. joseph, Gen. 48. jonah, Chap. 4. jeremiah, Chap. 20. 17. Ioshua, Chap. 7. job, Ch. ●. 9. james and John▪ Luk. 9. 54. Moses and patriarches. Lying: Abraham and Sarah, Gen. 12. David, jeremiah, Chap. 38. 24. joseph and Iac●b, murder: David, Manasseh, Paul, Levi and Simeon, Murmuring: The Israelites, Exod. 16. Aaron and miriae, Numb. 12. Numb. 12. Dan. 4. Matth. 20. Luk. 15. Gen. ●4. Gen. 44. 2. Gen. 38 Gen. 37. 18. Gen. 34. Matth. ●7. Col. 3▪ 5. Gen 19. Gen. 9. 21. Pride: adam and Eve, Gen. 3. Aaron and miriae, David, 2 Sam. 24. Hezekiah, 2 Kin. 20. Nebuchadnez. The Apostles, and Zebedeus sons, Luk. 9. 46. railing: The Corinthians, 1 Cor. of riotousness the ●rodigall, Adam of God, Gen. 3. 12. joseph of his brethren, subtlety: David, 2 Sam. 11. 25. jacob, Gen. ●7. 15. joseph, jael, judge 4. 17. Rachel, Gen. 31. 34. Thamar, Levi, Simeon, Gen. 34. and their br●thren, Theft: jacob and Rachel, Gen. 27. Levi and Simeon, The thief crucified, and Levi's b●eth●en, uncleanness: The romans, Rom. 6. 1●. The Col●ssians, unthankfulness: Adam and Eve, Gen. 3. 7. David, 2 Sam. 11. Lot, The Israelites, Exod. 32 Salomon, 1 Kin. 11. Noah, jacob, joseph and Hezekiah. whoredom: Abraham, Gen. 22. 24. and the adulterous woman, job. 8. Luk. 7. 1 K●ng. 11. David, 2 Sam. 11. jacob, Gen. 30 Magdalene, Samson, judge. 16. and king Salomon, One sin often: Abraham, David, jacob, joseph, Israelites, Manasseh▪ Peter, Rahab, Lot, Magdalene, Salomon, Samson, and other godly men. Job 35. ●9. Ps 78 40▪ Hos 13. ●. 〈◇〉 34▪ 3●. Prov. 24. 16. Matth. ●2. 31. Many sins: All the Godly mentioned in the book of God. Covered thy sins: So did David, till Nathan Proved him. Covered thy sins: So did job, till God spake to him. 2 Sam. 12. job 33. 9. Hast thou Complained against God, afflicting thee? so did Moses, job, ieremy, Fled from God calling thee? so did jonab, Adam and Eve, Hos. ●. 13. P●il●●. 12 2 Sam. 16. 1 Tim. 1. 13. Dealt unjustly? so did David in giving Mephib●sheths land to Ziba, Persecuted the members of Christ ignorantly? so did Paul, denied Christ through frailty? So did Peter. Been, and art thou in being full of iniquity? So was Mary Magd●lene, and joh. 20. psal. 13●. 4. 〈◇〉. ●●. 17.& 43. 14.& 55. 7. Matth. 9. 1●. yet she was chosen to be the first witness of Christs R●surr●ction. Christ came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance. read Psal. 130. 3, 4.& 145. 8, 9. Gods mercy and Justice met together. mercy spared Adam Promising Christ. Till their fullness of sin. In their idol●try. So that they entred into the land of Canaan. 1 Captain Sent to take Elias. From the si●e and flamme. David In his adultery. Daniel In the Lions De●. Here on earth living. Egyptians Four hundred yeares oppressing the Israelites The first. born of all Israel. The godly By Iebu's counsel. About the tents of Abiram. In flying to Tarshish. Cain By admonishing him. The Kenites For their love to Israel. From Sodomes destruction. Justice punished Adam By turning him out of Paradise, Gen. 3● josh. 12. 1 Kin. 18. Amorites With small destruction, By Elias and jehu, All the Israelites In the wilderness that came out from the Egyptians. Numb. 14. ● King. 1. Dan. ●. 2 Sam. 11. Dan 6. Luk. 16. Gen. 15 13. Exo 4.& 5. &c. Exod. 1●. 2 King. 10. Numb. 16. jonah 1. Gen. 4. 1 Sā. 15. Jer. 29. ●0. Gen. 19. 2 captains With their fifties. The men With fire that bound them, The child Born illegitimately. The men That plotted against him. Dives In hell fire dying. Egyptians With several plagues for their cruelties. The first- born of Egypt by an Angel. The wicked By Iebu's directions. Abiram By th'earth swallowing him jonah In the belly of a Sea-fish. Cain with a curse for murdering. Amalekites That lived among them. for looking back to Sodom●. mercy spared Mordecai From Hamans decree. Haman By his own three. Esth. 7. M●phib●sh●th By Davids favour. His brethren For the sins of their father. 2 Sam. 21. Nebuchadnezz. One year to repent. Nebuchadn. Waxing more insolent. Dan. 4. th'old world 120. years space. th'old world By a flood at the last. Gen. 7. the Prodigal In his prodigality. the Prodigal With great penury. Luke 15. the Patriarks Sinning against their brother. the Patriarks With conscience accusing. Gen. 42. Pharaohs Butler deluding him. Pharaohs Baker by hanging him. Gen. 40. Rahab With her household. Jericho Both young and old. josh. 6. S●dome A long time sinning. sodom With fire from Heaven. Gen. 19. Salomon In his idolatry. Salomon By raising an adversary. 1 Ki. 1●. 1 Sā. ●●. Saul Having slain the Gibeonits Saul And his by the Philistines. Chap. 31. Shimei A time after his cursing. Shimei With death by Salomon. 1 King. 11. Absalom and In their rebellion against Absalom and With death; the one by 2 Sam. 15. Adonijah their Father David. Ad●nijah Salomon, th'other by joab. 1 Kin. 2. His vineyard 3. yeares being barren. The owners For not fruits yielding. Luk. 13. 7. The Lord is he that doth mercy, equity, and righteousness upon the earth, and taketh pleasure jer. 9. 42. Rom. 11. 11. in such things. mercy Gave Abraham A son in his old age called Isaac. Gen. 21. Justice Commanded Abraham That his said son should be sacrificed. Chap. 22. mercy Willed Lots sons in law To depart out of the city sodom. Gen. 19. Justice Punished Lots sons in law For not departing out of the city sodom. mercy Gave Moses The sight of all the land of Canaan. Deut. 34. Justice Permitted not Moses For his unbelief to enter into Canaan. Numb. 20. mercy Willed the Egyptians To return with their beasts from the fields. Exod. 9. Justice Punished the Egyptians That remained with their beasts in the fields. mercy Gave the Ninevites forty dayes to repent of their sins. jonah 2● Justice threatened the Ninevites With destruction not repenting of their sins. mercy Promised Zacharias That his wife should bear him a son. Luke 1. Justice Punished Zacharias For not believing, so that he was dumb. mercy Willed the Israelites To offer peace to every city at the first. Deut. 20. 10. Justice Commanded the Israelites To destroy those Cities refusing it at the last. mercy Willed A Mark To be set on those that mourned for their sin. Ezek. 9. 4. Justice Caused All such As had not the Mark to be slain. Revel. 7. 3. mercy preacheth The year Acceptable of God to mourners comfort. Isai. 61. 2. Justice preacheth The day Of Gods vengeance that mourneth not. mercy sent forth his servants, To call them that were bidden to the wedding. Matth. 22. Justice sent forth his souldiers, To destroy them that came not to the wedding. mercy Saved One thief Of the two crucified with Christ. Luke 23. Justice Condemned One thief Of the two crucified with Christ. mercy will Take One in the Bed: Field and Mill at the latter day. Luke 17. Justice will Leave One in the Bed: Field and Mill at the latter day. mercy will say, Come ye Blessed, At the last in the Judgement day. Matth. 25. Justice will say, Depart ye cursed. At the last in the Judgement day. Prov. 2 16. 6. Exod. ●4. Deut. ●. 9. Psal. 19. 9. 2 P●t. 2. ●. Nahum ●. 3. Hab. 3. 2. Prov. 11. 21. Matth. 12. Psal. 118. 18. jer. ●●. 11. The Lord By mercy and Truth purgeth iniquity. The Lord Sheweth mercy to thousand, not making the wicked innocent. The Lord His judgements are true and righteous altogether. Loveth righteousness and Judgement: He is merciful and just. mercy and Truth have met together, righteousness and Peace have kissed each other. Psal. 33. 5. Psal. 116. 5. Psal. 85. 10. Rom. 11. 33. Unsearchable are the judgements of God, his ways past finding out. Note. Wheresoever the Justice of God appeareth, there also he sheweth his mercy; in that while he punish●th the Disobedience of one, he sheweth mercy always to the other. read Ecclus. 5. 6. Chap. 16. 11. Prov. 3. 3. Chap. 16. 6. Chap. 21. 21. A Catalogue of Gods blessings prepared for all Godly Persons. The Lord hath prepared for the Godly abundance Of all things, and of Grace by Christ, with all things that Deut. ●8. Rom. 5. 7. Cha. 8. 28. Psal 91. 11. Ps. 34. 7. Isai. 40▪ 10. Mal. 3. 16. Gen. 12. 3. shall befall them, in the end to turn to the best. Angels To keep them, and to camp round about them. An arm To rule for them: A book of remembrance to writ them in. Blessings For them that bless them, curses for them that curse them; Blessings in the city, in the field, in the fruit of their body and cattle; for their kine, flocks of sheep, basket and Deut. 7. 13. Deut. 28. 3. store, as well from the Heavens above as from the depths beneath, both in their going out and coming in, and for all that shall be taken in hand by them. Gen. 49. 25. Prov. 10. 6. Chap. 3. 33. Psal. 112. 2. Psal. 109. 18. I●● 36. 11. Isai. 61. 3. Dan. 12. 1. P●●l. 4. 3. ●ev. 26. Job 29. 6. P●●l. 27. ●. Psal. 56. 8. Blessings For their Head and Habitation, and for their generations, as also to poure on them, when the wicked and ungodly curse and speak evil of them, with blessed ends for all the posterity of them. beauty For Ashes: and oil of joy for Mourning. books Of life to register, and writ their names in. Bread In plentifulness, and Butter of kine to give them. boldness And confidence: so that nothing shall fear them. Bottles To put their tears in, and a register to writ them. Buildings Made of precious stones( to wit) Carbuncles and Saphites, for the foundation: emeralds, Jasper, and beryl for the windows, with shining pleasant stones for the gates Isai 54. 11. and borders;( that is to say) God will turn their deeps of Sorrows into Seas of Comfort, their bitter tears into spiritual triumphs, their former horrors into heavenly joys. Children To set round about their tables, with childrens children. Psal. 128. 1 Cor. 1. 30. Rom. 8. 32. D●ut. 30. 6. Zeph. 9. 17. 2 Cor. ● 4. Pr. 28. 1. P●al. 140. 7. Pr●●. 2 10. Jer. 17. 6▪ 2 ●im. 4. 8. Gē. 27. 28 Luk. 2. 26. Christ Who was made unto them righteousness, wisdom, Sanctification and Redemption, with Life everlasting. Circumcision For their hearts: and corn and wine to cheer them. Comfort In tribulation, and Conscience bold as a Lion. Coverings In battle: and heat for their heads and in storms. counsel To guide them: Cups of Consolation to drink for them. Crownes Of Right●ousnesse in Heaven: with the due of heaven. Departing In peace for their souls with blessed Simeon. Deliverance To free them from men speaking proud words, from wicked men, from strange women, from the snare of the hunter, Psal. 91. 3. and noisome pestilence, from waters, floods, flames, and from all troubles: so that nothing shall be able to harm Isai. 43. 2. them. drinks Of pleasure: dwellings in safety, and eatings in plenty. P●al. 3●. 8. I●●. ●3. 16. 〈◇〉. 2. 26. exod. 19. 4. P●al. 25. 13. Psa. 18. 6.& 112. 8. Numb. 6. 25. Exo●. 2● 27. Act. ●● 9. 1 P●t. 1. 9. Exo. 11. 3. Psa. 5. 11. Psal 36. 8.& 115. 14. ●●ai. 25. 6. 1 joh. 3. 3. Eagles Wings to carry them: The earth to possess for them. Enlargings For their steps: and establishments for their hearts. His Face To shine upon them: his fear to go before them. Faith To purify their hearts: and in Christ to save them. Favour In the eyes of all men: and favour to compass them. fatness Of his House: and his grace to satisfy them. Feasts And fellowship with himself, and Christ his Son. fear To cast on their enemies, so that one of them shall chase I●sh. 23. 1●. 〈◇〉. 2●. 8. D●●l 11. 25. a thousand, and an hundred ten thousand, so that none shall stand before them. food Of gladness, fruitful seasons, with other fruitfulness. Act. 14. 17. Psal. 12▪ 〈◇〉 Ex●●. 2●. 2●. 〈◇〉. 58. 11. fullness Of dayes of joy, and for the drought of their souls: with hearts desire, and of all other good things. Garments Of white raiments to cloth them: Badgers-skins to shoe them, girdles of fine linen, and silk to cover them, ornaments Ezek. 16. 10, 11. to deck them, bracelets for their hands, chains for their necks, ear-rings for their ears, and a most beautiful Crown for their heads. Of Salvation and of gladness to cover them. 〈◇〉. 61. 1●. 〈◇〉. 30. 29. R●v. 3. 18. Is●i. 60. 17. Is●l. 58. 19. Psal. 23. 5. Gold In stead of dust and brass, silver for iron. Good report In Name and goodness in their life to follow them. The Gospel Of peace to preach to them,& good tidings to satisfy them. Matth. 11. 5. Psal. 1●● 5. Psal. 2●. 9. Guidings In executing of Justice, to direct them. The Lord hath prepared for the Godly himself To be enemy to their enemies, to conduct them through Exod. 23. 22. Isai. 43. 2.& 46. 4. Lev. 26. 18. Eph. 4 ●. the waters, to be with them till old age and gray hairs, to walk amongst them, with his holy Spirit to comfort them. Health Growing speedily: Healings for their hearts broken. Deut. ●●. 6. P●al. 43. 7. Hearts Of flesh for stony hearts, clean hearts, sound hearts, with Jer. 24. 7. Psal. 51. 10. Ezek. 36. 16. hearts desire to give them: and new spirits to renew in them. Hearing For the deaf: fight for the blind, leapings for the lame, Isai 42. 16. Chap. 33 5, 6. and tongue for such as be dumb among them. Hidings Under his hand, in his Quiver, in his Pavision, in his Tabernacle, Isai. 49. ●. Psal. 27. 5. in trouble and tribulation. Honey Out of the Rock to eat, and hope to rest in. P●al. 81. 1●. P●●●●● 19. Psal, ●●●. 〈◇〉 ●. Honour And Inheritances that never shall have ending. Joy To fill their lips and heart: joy in stead of mourning, and Joh 8. 21. Psal 4. 7. joy in Christ without ending. Psal. ●. 11. joh. 1●. 11. Ch●●●. 6. 22. The issue Of every temptation that shall be fall them. P●al. ●. 11. I●h. 15. 11. Ch●●● 6. ●●. kindness And mercy to compasle, and to follow them. 1 Co●. 10. 13. Psal. ● 10. Psal. 2●. 6. Lands And Inheritances of safety to dwell in. Levil. 2●. 18. Psal. ●5. ●●. Psal. ●●●. The labour Of their own hands to give food unto them. laws Of his to writ in their hearts, and inward parts. Knowledge Out of his own secrets, and of the secrets of his kingdom Jer. 3●. ●●. Psal. 25 14. to reveal unto them. The Lambs Supper: and Love, with loving kindness to crown them. Luk. 8. 10. R●v. 19 9. Psal. ●●. 4 ●●●. 5. 9 Light Out of darkness, and obscure places to give them. Psal. 12. 4. I●●. 58 8. Psal. ●●. 11. Light Of his Countenance to lift up upon them. Laughter For their mouth, and joy for their tongue. Psal. 126. 21. P●al. 91. 16 Ez●k. ●. 4. Long life Therewith to satisfy them: and marks to know them. mercy To follow them, with compassion to crown them, to compass Psal. 102. 4. P●al. 2●. 4. P●al. 32. 1●. Psal. ●●. 2. ●●●. ●8. 19. them, and for everlasting. mightiness On earth for their seed, memorial for their names. Mirth For their hearts: and mountains to bring peace. mouths Yea, such as none shall be able to gain-say them. Act. 14. 17. Psal. 62. 5. Luk. 22. 1●. 1 C●●. 17 ●. ● 〈◇〉 Is● 4●. 16. 〈◇〉 Rev. ●●. Names Of greatness to give them: as also hath their names graved on his hands, written in Heaven, and in the book of life remaining. One Heart To give them: and old store in plenty for them. Jer. 32. 3●. L●v. 2●. ●●. Psal. 37. 2. 〈◇〉 ●. Order●ngs For their steps: with paths of righteousness to walk in. oil Out of the Rock, oil to make them a joyful countenance, Deut. 32 13. Psal. 104 15. Psal. 61. ●. 〈◇〉 ●. ●. oil of joy for mourning, and oil to anoint them. Peace In their land: peace passing understanding: peace with Lev. 26. 6. Joh 5. 2●. Joh. 14. 27. Psal. ●2. 7. Psal. 14●. 14. Psal. ●. ●7. R●m. 14. 7. the beasts of the field, and in their Taberna●les, peace from Christ external and internal, so long as the Sun and Moon endureth: peace for their bodies, and ends with peace in the Holy Ghost. People That shall serve them, and bow to them. Gen. ●8. 15. Jer. 3. 15. 2 Pet. ●. 4. Joh 14. 26. Psal. ●6. 12. Pastours To feed them with Knowledge and Understanding. Partaker-ship Of the Divine Nature, that is, Salvation. Places Of wealth to dwell in: and places above other men. plenty To lend, so that they shall not borrow of any. Joh 22 25. Psal. ●●. 19. D●●●. ●●. 9. plentifulness For the labour of their hands: and fruit of body. Perfection For their ways, and pleasures continually. Psal. 18. 32. Psal. ●6. 11. Is●i 4 ●29. Power For such as faint, and strength for the weak. Preservation In all danges, times, and seasons, to protect them. Praching Of his word, as the only ordinary means of save them. Psal. 121. 8. 1 Cor. 1. 21. Mal. 2. 7. Jam. 5. 15. Prov. 15 8. H●●. 7. 2●. The Priests Lips, as a means to preserve knowledge among them. The Prayers Each of other to help them: and Christ himself now in heaven to make Intercession for them. Prosperous success for all that shall be taken in hand by them. prosperity For all their affairs, and Protection in all seasons. Psat. ●. 3. Josh. 1. 7. Psal. 121. 8. I●●. ●6. 4. ●●● 2 2●. josh. 2● 44. ●●. 6. 16. Psal. 132. 9. Isai 41. 18. A●●. 11. 18. Eph●. ●. ●. Joh 8. 21. Psal. 18. 20. Rain In due season, and rain of righteousness to give them. Rest For the land about them, and rest in heaven for them. Righteousness And Salvation to cloth the Priests among them. Rivers In tops of hills, and Fountains in valleys. Repentance Unto life, and Redemption through Christ Jesus. rejoicing For their lips: rewards according to their righteousness. Riches To garnish them: Rods and Staves to comfort them. Psal. 112. 3. Psal. 23. 4. Psal. 149 4. Salvation To beautify them: Sanctification for the bodies of them. safety To dwell in: and security at all times for them. Lev. 20. 8. L●vit. 26. 6. joh 5. ●1. Seed As the Sands in number for their generation Shadow Of his own hand: and sleep without fear to keep them. Joh 5. 25. Isa●. ●1. 16. L●v. 16. 6. Psal. 40. 3. Psal. 32. 7. Songs Of praise, and of deliverance to compass them. Ezek. 36. 26. Psal. 51. 10. His Spirit To dwell in them, to power on them, and in prayer to help Rom. 8. 9. Isai. 44. 3. Z●●h. 1●. 10. them with the Spirit of Grace and Supplication. The Spirit Of truth to led them, of Adoption, of Power, of Love, of a Rom. 8. 15. 2 Tim. 1. 7. 1 Th●●. 5. 9. sound mind, and of Salvation. stability For their times: and stableness for their hearts. Psal. 33. 6. Psal. 132. 9. Psal. 23. 4. Isai 45. 31. Psal. 91. 4. Tables In the midst of their enemies, treasures in darkness. Truth To be a shield and buckler to defend them. The Voice Of the bridegroom, and Bride, joy and gladness. Jer. 33. 11. ●ica● 4. 4. Psal. 104. 15. The Vine To sit under; and Wine to comfort them. Wings Of his own at all times to shadow them. Psal. 91. 4. Isai. 40. 31. Isai. 25. 8. Walking Without weariness; and wipings for their tears. Women That are godly for wives to give unto them. Ecclus 26. Psal. 37. 3●. 1 Ki. 3. 12. Isai. ●●. 6. wisdom For their mouth, for their hearts, for the establishment of their times; yea, such as that none shall be able to resist Luk. 21. 15. them. Words Of his to put into their mouths: and his word to be a Isai. 51. 16. lantern unto their feet, and a light to their paths, to walk in, as also to led them, when they walk, watch for Psal. 119. 105. them when they sleep, and talk with them when they wake. Prov. 6. 22. spiritual armor To withstand all temptation;( to wit) the girdle of Veritio for their loins, the breastplate of righteousness, the Ephes. 6. 15. preparation of the Gospel of peace, the Helmet of Salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God. The fruits of the Spirit Faith, gentleness, goodness, Love unfeigned, meekness, Gal. 5. 22. ● Ephes. 5. 9. 1 Tim. 6. 11. Temperance, Patience, Long-suffering, righteousness, godliness, and such, &c. And in the world to come Heaven. Heaven Where there shall be such joy as the eye hath not seen, the 1 Pet. 1. 4. ●are hath not heard, neither can, enter into mans heart: Which the Lord grant us. Thus shall the man be blessed that search the Lord. Psal. 138. 4. Psal. 31. 19. jer. 3●. 41. Psa. 84. 1●.& 37. 22 Luk. 10. 22. The Lord hath laid up great goodness for them that fear him, and delighteth to do them good: He will give Grace and glory, and no good thing will he with-hold from them that walk uprightly. Let them then rejoice whose Names are written in Heaven. read jer. 32. 41. Psal. 68. 19. Psal. 71. 15. Blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits, even the God Psal. 68. 19. Ephes. 1. 3. of our Salvation. Multiplying and Increase for their cattle, Deut. 28. Multiplying and Increase for their Land, Lev. 25 19 Multiplying and Increase for their Trees, Ch●. 16. 4. Multiplying and Increase for their Seeds, Gen. 26. 12. Multiplying and Increase for their Vines, Ioel 2. 22. Multiplying and Increase for their Fig-trees, Zech 8. 12 Multiplying and Increase for their Ground, 2 Cor. 9. 10 Strength for their Oxen, Ps. 144. 14 Waters for their Grounds, Isai 43. 3. prosperity for their Habitations, joh 8. 6. Isai. ●●. 8. ● Isai. 32. 18. Peace for their Borders, Mirtle-trees, and fir-tree Isai. 55. 13. in stead of briars and thorns. Micah 4. grains of Wheat. Deut. 32. 14. Psal. 147. 14. Floure of Wheat. Floore-fuls of Wheat. Fat-fuls of Wine. Ioel 2. 24. Thereshing and Vintage, until Vintage and sowing time Lev. 26. 5. Amos 9. 13. The Lord visiteth the earth, and watereth it, he greatly enricheth it with the river Psal. 65. 9. of God, which is full of water. He prepareth corn, when he hath so proyided for it. Prov. ●0. 22. 1 Ch●●n. 17. 27. The Blessing of the Lord it maketh rich, and he adde●h no sorrow with it. Ezek. 36. 30. He blesseth, and it shall be blessed for ever. Psal. 144. 12. Psal. 68. 1●. Psal. 85. 12. A Description of a Blessed Man. blessedness consiseth not in man himself, nor in any other created thing, but only in God the creator, who alone being infinite, is only turly blessed, being not only the cause of blessed felicity, but also blessedness itself. Again, blessedness is to be free from all evil, and to abound with all good things. And is the Alpha and Omega of man, the beginning of Nature, and the end of Grace. There is a Blessing of There are five kindes of Blessings: 1. Procreation: Such was The gift of Children spoken of by David: Thou shalt see thy childrens children. Psal. 128. 3. 2. Protection: Such was That was likewise spoken of by David, saying, Thou wilt compass him as with a shield. Psal. 5. 12. 3. prosperity: Such was Obed-Edmos so long as the ark of the Lord remained with him. 1 Chron. 13. 14. 4. plenty: Such was That which David spake of, saying, Thou crownedst the year with thy goodness. Psal. 65. 11. 5. Blessings: Such was Spoken of by Christ, and shall be spoken again, saying, Come ye blessed my Father. Matth. 25. 34. Blessed is the man that Blesseth those that are the Children of Light. Gen. 12. 3. Nū. 24. 9. Condemneth not himself in the things that he alloweth. Rom. 14. 22. Calleth and inviteth the poor and maimed to his feasts. Luke 4. 13. Dwelleth in the Tabernacles of God, praising him in his House. Psal. 84. 4. R●vil. 14. 12. Luke 14. 15. dieth in the Lord: and that eateth in the kingdom of Heaven. Doth Gods Commands: delighting in them to fulfil them. Rev. 2●. 14. Ps. 112. 1. Feareth always, enduring temptation, and finding wisdom. Jā. 1. 12. Pro. 28. 14. Hath mercy on the Members of Christ, the God of jacob for his help, his Matth. 5. 7. Psal. 32. 1.& 146. 5. Rom. 4. 7. R●vil. 20 6. Luke 11. 28. P●●v. 8. 33. sins forgiven, and that hath no guile, and hath his part in the first Resurrection in the day of Judgement. Heareth the Word of God, and that keepeth the same. Hath not seen Christ bodily, and yet believes in him. Joh. 20. 29. hungereth and thirfteth after righteousness to be given. Matth. 3. 6. Psal. 41. 1. Psal. 56. 1. Judgeth wisely of the poor: and that keepeth Judgement. Keepeth, and that readeth the mystery of the Revelation. Rev. 1. Chap. 22. Lendeth his money freely, and that without usuire and gain. Deut. 23. 10. Psal. 40. 4. Psal. 65. 4. Maketh the Lord his trust: not regarding the proud man. The Lord chooseth, and that he shall find watching. Luk 12. 43. Obeyeth the voice of the Lord, and that in every thing. Deut. 28. 1. Polluteth not the Sabbath of the Lord, but sanctifieth the same. Isai. 56. 2. Matth. 5. 10. Psal. 119. 2. Suffereth porsecution for righteousness sake: and that seeketh God. Selleth his corn: and that putteth his trust in the Lord. Prov. 11. 26. Chap. 16. 20. Stayeth on the Lord, and that by patiently abiding. Isai. 20. 18. Psal. 1. R●vil. 16. 15. Ri●. ●. ●. ● 19. 9. ● 2● 6. ● 22. 4. Walketh not in the counsel of the wicked men. Watcheth and keepeth his Garments, not being naked. Is Called to the Marriage of the Lamb, and to his Supper. Revel. 19. 9. Is evil spoken of for the Name of Christ Jesus. 1 Pet. 4. 14. Is poor in Spirit, that mourneth and is meek. Matth. 5. Is Pure in Heart: and that is a Peace-maker. Matth. 5. Is Not offended in Christ: that is a doeros well as an hearer. Matth. 11. 6. Walketh in the Law of the Lord his God. Psal. 119. 1. rejoiceth in adversity, Following the Example of Paul. 2 Cor. 11. 30. Beareth crosses patiently, Following the Example of job. job 1. Laments his sins sorrowfully, Following the Example of peter. Luk. 22. 62. In mind Thinketh Nothing contrary to Gods Will. In Will Coveteth Nothing contrary to Gods Will. 1 Thes. 5. 3. In body Executeth Nothing contrary to Gods Will. Psal. 32. 1, 2. Blessed is the man that is not condemned in his Conscience, and that is not fallen from his hope in the Lord. Ecclus. 14. 2. God blessed All Creatures, Gen. 1. Adam, Ch. 2. Abraham, Ch. 12. Ishmael, Ch. 26. God blessed Isaac, Cha. 26. jacob, Cha. 32. joseph, Chap. 40. The Israelites. Deut. 27. God blessed Noah, Gen. 9. Laban, Chap. 30. Obed-Edom. 2 Sam. 6. Egypt. Gen. 39. God blessed Ioh's last dayes, joh 42. The seventh day, Exod. 20. Free-lenders: Deut. 23. 10. and man and wife. Gen. 1. 28. Christ Blessed The Apostles, luk. 24. 50. and little Children, Psal. 33. 12. & 34. 8. Mark 10. 16. Luke 1. 18. Gen. 9. Exo. 39 Lev. ●. Gen. 47& 49. josh. 22. 1 Sa. 2. 1 Ki. 8. 2 Sa. 6. 1 Chr. 10. Luk. 2.& 1. An Angel Blessed jacob, Gen. ●2. jael, judge. 5. 24. and Mary, Melchizedck Blessed Abraham, Gen. 14. Noah. Shem and Iopheth, Isaac Blessed Iacoh and Esan, Gen. 27. Moses and Aaron, the people, Iacoh Blessed Phar●oh, Gen. joseph and his Children, Ioshus Blessed Caleh, Josh. 14. The Reubenites and Gadites. Boaz& Elders Blessed Ruth, Chap. 3. Eli Elkanah: Salomon the Congregation. King David Blessed Abigail, 1 Sam. 25. the people and his household, Simeon Blessed joseph and Mary: and Elizabeth Mary, All they which are of faith are blessed with faithful Abraham. Gal. 3. 9. Prov. 10. 22. Rom. 12. 14. Numb. 24. 9. The blessing of the Lord maketh rich, and he addeth no sorrow to it. bless them that persecute you, bless and curse not,( saith Christ,) Blessed is he that blesseth the Godly, read Deut. 24 tub. 7. Iudeth 13. Gods Justice Mans sin punished: As well of the Godly as of the wicked. IUstice in God is Gods constant will, whereby he recompenseth Men and Angels Ephes. 1. 11. Rom. 2. 5. 2 Tim. 4. 8. Deut. 7. 10. Rom. 9. 15. Ezck. 16. 16. according to their works; punishing the impenitent according to their desetts, called the Justice of his wrath; and rewarding the faithful according to his Promises, called the Justice of his Grace, being truly and most perfectly Just; in that he is an upright Judge, whose will is the rule of all Justice. Now the fearful Examples of the Justice of God against sin, do show how grievous and fearful it is to sin against him: but especially his justice against Adam, how great was it? that for one disobedience of his, all mankind should be cast into so great miseries both of soul and body, that all men should be born the children of wrath, and judged to eternal punishment( except they were delivered Eph. 2. 3. by Christ;) yea, every Creature is made subject to vanity, not of it own accord, but by reason of the sin of Adam. Also how great was that justice of God, when he destroyed all the world with 2 Pet. 2. ●. a flood, winding all in the same destruction, both small and great; yea, the very Sucklings( excepting those few of the family of Noah) whom he in his mercy preserved alive in the ark. But of all other justice of God, the fearful Example of his justice against sin was that, whean as God to punish our sins delivered up to death his own only Son, and dearly beloved Son begotten of his own substance very God: and in regard of his flesh, conceived by the Holy Ghost, that he should be afflicted, tormented and slain, to omit his infinite perplexities, and most bitter torment, so unmeasurably, that being brought, as it were, to Hell gates, cried out, My God, my Matth. 17. 46. God, why hast thou for saken me? For what was this else, but as if God being angry with himself for our sins, should turn the edge of his anger upon himself, and to have taken punishment on himself, to have left no one kind of torment wherewith he had not a afflicted himself: in one word, to have cast out the whole vial of his wrath and fury, which he had conceived by the sinners of all men, which have been, are, or shall be, upon his own self? for the Apostle saith plainly, God suffered, and that he dyed, and that he redeemed the Church with his own blood. Act. 20. 28. Seeing Christ suffered the eternal punishment for sin, why doth God punish the Godly that sin against him? Christ suffered indeed the eternal punishment satisfactory to Gods justice for sin, man only suffereth the temporal chastisement for sin. For sin The Angel● which kept not their first place are reserved in everlasting Iude 6. 2 Pet. 2. chains under darkness unto judgement. Adam and Eve Eating the forbidden fruit, became naked in hody, were thrust out of Paradise, the one to ●ll the ground, the Gen. 3. other to bring forth in sorrow. Achan taking execrable things forbidden by the Lord, was with all his stoned josh. 7. to death, and all that he had burned. Aaron not believing entered not into the land of Can●an. Num. 20. Ahab the son of Kolaiah, and Zedekiah the son of Ma●seiah prophesying lies in Gods Name were destroyed by nabuchadnezzar the king of Babylon. jer. 29. 21. Abraham taking Hagar had a mocking Ishmael by her. Gen. 16. For sin taking Abrahams wife unto him, his wife with all other the Gen. 20. women were made ba●ren. Aspiring to take their Father Davids kingdom: 2 Sam. 18. The one, to wit Absalom, was hanged; the other by King Salomon was unto death adjudged. 1 King. 1. Causing Naboth to be slain, and his vineyard to be taken from 1 King. 21. Chap. 22. 37. 2 King. 9. 2 King 1. Amos 7. him: the one was slain at Ramoth-Gilead: the other was by jehu with horses to death trampled. Ahaziah seeking to strange gods to be healed in his sickness, dyed. Amaziah Accusing Amos safely, his wife became a hariot; his sons and daughters were slain, and he himself dyed, according to Gods word, in a land polluted. Ahithophel himself hanged, seeing his counsel not regarded. 2 Sam. 17. The Aramites Saying that God was the God of the mountaines only, were slain by the Israelites to the number of one hundred thou. 1 King. 19. 35. sand footmen, the rest flying a wall fell on them. The Assycians, with other dwelling in Samaria, not fearing God, were by Lions slain, as a judgement sent upon them. 2 King. 17. The amalekites fighting against Israel in the wilderness, the Lord from Exod. 17. 14. under Heaven did put out their remembrance. Making a lie to the Holy Ghost in keeping back part of the money made of their possession, they were both by the Apostles Act. 5. with death suddenly strucken. Balaam giving wicked counsel to Israel to sin was slain. Revel. 2. 24. 2 P●t. 2. 15. 1 King. 18. Baals prophets prophesying lies were by Elias and lebu slain. 2 King. 10. Benjamites abusing a Levites wife, twenty five thousand were slain. judge. 20. Bethshemites looking into the Ark of God, fifty thousand were slain. 1 Sam. 6. Belshazzar. Abusing the vessels of the Temple of the Lord by drinking in them, saw a hand-writing on the wall, at which his countenance Dan. 5. changed, and all his members trembled. Cham discovering his Fathers nakedness was by him cursed. Gen. 9. 25. Two Captains of three sent to take Elias were with fire consumed. 1 King. 1. Corah and his company rebelling were in the earth swallowed. Numb. 16. Taking Uriahs wife: Absalom his son lay with his Concubines: 2 Sam. 11. Cha. 12.& 13. Chap. 18. 9. 1 King. 2. 4. 2 Sam. 24. for causing Uriah to be made drunken, and to be slain, his son born in adultery, and three other of his sons were slain, according to his own word unto Nathan: and for numbering his people, seventy thousand of them were slain by an Angel. Daniels accusers intending evil to him, were cast into the den. Dan. 6. Dives being unmerciful to Lazarus: is now in hell torments. Luk. 16. Er and Onan were both suddenly slain, after their wickedness. Gen. 38. His sons doing wickedly: The priesthood was taken from 1 Sam. 2. Chap. 4. 1 King. 11. 1 King. 16. Esh. 2. Act. 13. 11. Act. 20. judge. 12. 4. Eli's posterity, and both his sons were at one time by the Philistines slain suddenly. Elah being drunken, was by Zimri his servant murdered. eunuchs intending treason against the king were hanged. Elymas with standing Paul, was strike blind suddenly. Eutichus falling asleep at Pauls preaching, fell down suddenly. Ephraimites, saying the Gileadites were but Vagabonds of Ephraim, among the Ephraimites and Manassites, forty thousand were of them by jephthah slain. Gideon making an Ephod, brought all his posterity to ruin. judge. 8. goliath blaspheming, was by David with a ston slain. 1 Sam. 17. Gehezi taking Naamans gifts, had Naamans leprosy. 2 King. 5. Hagar disobeying Sarah: Sarah dealt with her troughly. Gen. 16. Hananiah dyed the same year that he prophesied falsely. jer. 28. Making shipwreck of their faith and good Conscience, they were by Paul delivered over unto Satan, that they might learn not to blaspheme. 1 Tim. 1. 19. 20. Herod not giving God the glory, was eaten with worms. Act. 12. Justice punished Haman was hanged on his own three, seeking to destroy the Jews. Esth. 3. Heathen Kings, Canaanites, Peresites, and Jebusites, were slain by Israel. Lev. 20. Due 9. King Abaz was Delivered into the hands of the Assyrians. 2 Chron. 28. King Amaziah was Slain at Lachish where he sled. Chap. 25. King Amon was Slain by his own servants. 2 King. 21. King ●oshta was Kept in prison by the Assyrians. Chap. 17. King jehoiakim was Carried prisoner into Babel. Chap. 24. King Manasseh was Bound with fetters by the King of Babel. 2 Chron. 33. Cain murdering Abel, the Lord rejected him, the earth repined at him, Gen. 4. and men abhorred him. Ishmael slouting, was cast out from the house of Abraham. Gen. 21. jehoram murdering, by a disease his guts fell out within him. 2 Chron. 21. jeroboam setting up idol●trie: ruinated his whole posterity. 1 Ki. 12. Co. 13. 2. L●●. 1. 8. 2 Chro. 20. 35. Jehos●aphat. Jerusalem was derided, being in Babylon in captivity. The Jews wishing Christs blood on them, crucisying Christ the Lord of Matth. 27. Deut. 4. 26. life: They are now become a dispersed Nation over the face of the whole earth. The Israelites worshipping a golden calse, three thousand were slain of Exod. 32. Numb. 14. Num. 11.& 21. judge. 3. Isai. 42. Numb. 14. Numb. 16. Chap. 25. 9. 2 King. 17. them going to war without the Ark of God, they were overcome: Murmuting against God, the utmost part of the Host was consumed: Lusting after flesh they were plagu●d: Murmuing against God and Moses, they w●●●●●ung to death: Disobeying the Lord, they were delivered into the hands of spoilers, and of six hundred thousand men that came out of Egypt, but only Caleb and I●shua entred into Canaan, the rest perished in the wilderness: making also their sons to pass through the fire, and for idolattie they were all carried into captivine. Iob's friends speaking that which was not right, displeased God. job 42. 7. Ion●h disobeying God, was by a fish imprisoned. jonab 1. josiah was slain, for not asking counsel of the Lord. 2 Chron. 35. Iudas betraying Christ his Master, hanged himself after. Mat. 29. Act. 1. 18. Lots wife was turned into a pillar of salt, looking back to sodom. Lot himself was no more mentioned by the Holy Ghost after his incest. Gen. 19. Lots daughters conceived two wicked Nations by their wickedness. Little children mocking ●lisha, they were devoured with Lionesses. 2 King. 2. Moses Was almost slain, neglecting to circumcise his son. Exod. 4. Moses For not believing the Lord, entred not into Canaan. Num 20. miriae against Moses murmuring, was with leprosy strucken. Numb. 12. Michal Davids wife mocking, was to her death barren. 2 Sam. 6. The man That blasphemed Gods Name, was stoned. Levit. 24. The man That profaned Gods Sabbath, was stoned. Numb. 15. The man Not employing his Talent, was imprisoned. Matth. 13. The man Coming to the wedding without a garment, was imprisoned. Matth. 22. The man That Christ healed at Bethesda, was 38. yeares diseased. joh 5. 14. The man That disobeyed the Prophet, was by a Lion slain. 1 King. 20. The men Forbidding the Prophet to prophecy, a plague sell on them. jer. 11. 21. The men That set Gods Ark with Dagon, were with Emerods strucken. 1 Sam 5. The men Were consumed with fire that bound the three children. Dan. 3. The men Dyed, that brought up the slander on Canaan. Nu. 14. 1 Cor. 10. Nadab Walking in the ways of jeroboam, was by jehu slain. 1 King. 15. Nahal dealing churlishly with David, his heart died within him. 2 King. 17. 24. 1 Sam. 25. Nebuchadnez zar beasting, had the mind of a beast given him. Dan. 4. Nimrod building. All languages were confounded. Gen. 11. Old world taking wives of all that they liked, was drowned. Gen. 38. 8. Gen. 7. Pharaob taking Abarahams wife, his household was plagued. Gen. 11. Pharaob of Egypt oppresing the Israelites, had Frogs, swarms of flies, and other plagues brought on his people, beasts and land: and following them at the read sea, was with all his therein drowned. Exod. 3. Chap. 4. Cha. 6. Chap. 14. The patriarches selling Ieseph were plagued with a samine. Gen. 42. Philistines mocking Samson, a house fell upon them. judge. 16. 24. The prophet seduced disobeying, was by a Lion slain. 1 King. 13. The Prince not b●leeving the prophet was to death trodden. 2 King. 7. The prodigal consuming his estate, was pined with penu●ie. Luk. 15. Paul persecuting the Christians, was strike blind suddenly. Act. 0. Peter rebuking Christ; Christ rebuked him eagerly. Mark 8. 32. Reuben lying with his Fathers Concubine, lost his dignity. Gen. 49. Rehob●am oppr●ssing his subjects, Ten tribes fell from him. 1 King. 12. For sin Sodomites and Gomorrth Were with fire and brimstone consumed. Gen. 19. For their abounding in idleness, pride, and fullness of bread, from whence their filthiness proceeded. Ezek. 16. 49. Gen. 16. 3. Chap. 18. 12. Ch. 12. 14.& 20. 16. judge. 16. 1 Sam. 13. 1 King. 11. 2 King. 19. Gen. 34. Gen. 49. 〈◇〉 2 Sam. 20. 1 King. 2. jer. 29. 24. Act. 8. Sarah Laughing, and denying it, was by God reproved. Giving to Abraham Hagar, she was despised of her. Fearing to aclowledge he● husband, was rebuked. Samson discovering his strength, lost his hair, eyes, and life. Saul disobeying by sparing Agag, his kingdom was given to David. Salomon following idolatry: Adversaries were against him raised. Sennacherib, blaspheming: An Angel slay of his army 485000. Shechem ravishing Dinah was slain by Simeon and Levi. Simeon and Levi slaying the Shechemites: jacob cursed their cruelty. Sheba committing treason against David, was beheaded. Shimei cursing David, reviling him, was put to death by Salomon. Shemaiah prophesying falsely, brought himself, and his to destruction. Simon Magus going about to buy the Holy Ghost, a curse fell on him. Sihon King of the Amorites refusing to let the Israelites to pass thorough his land, he was with all his people destroyed from the wilderness unto judge. 11. Jordan. Sceva's sons abusing Gods Name, evil spirits overcame them. Act. 19. Act. 5. 36. joh. 20. Matth 2●. 2 Chron. 18. Luke 1. Theudas boasting of his greatness, was with his followers slain. Thomas was reproved by Christ, for not believing. The Virgins not watching, the doors were shut against them. Zedekiah smiting Michaiah, was after by others smitten. Zacharias not believing, was strike dumb for a time. Murtherers murdering others▪ have been murdered again. mankind sinning, nothing could satisfy Gods wrath, but the death of 1 Tim. 3. 6. Christ his dear and only Son, which he did willingly undergo for man: Generally, for all world. Heb. 9. 12. Matth▪ 28. Specially, for those that believe in him. Valiantly, In that death was overcome by him. The Lord will straitly took to the man that sinneth: and will not hold him guiltless job 10. 14▪ of iniquity. If one man sin against another, the judge shall judge it; but if a man sin against Isai. 59. 2. Ezek. 14. 14. the Lord, who shall pled for him? Man suffereth for sin: Lam. 3. 39. read Ezek. 14. 14. Gods Justice Dumb Creatures punished for sin by man committed. For the sin of Adam, The earth was cursed, so that it brought forth briars, thorns, Gen. 3. judge. 19. Gen. 4. and Thistles in stead of fruits. Cain, The ground was cursed, not yielding her increase. sodom, The land at this day stinketh, and beareth fruit fruitless. Pharaoh, The waters of Egypt were turned into blood: Their trees, Exod. 12. 29. Exo. 3.& 4. &c. Numb. 16. josh. 7. jonah 1. Isai. 24. 6. Chap. 28. 17. jer. 12. 4.& ●6. 29. Hos. 4. 3. Am●●4. 9& 88. I●●l 1. 4. jo. 7. 1●. cattle, and herbs were destroyed. Corah, All the goods they had were swallowed up with him. Achan, His oxen, sheep, and all else, were consumed with him. jonah, The ship was ready to sink, and the wears were cast forth. The Israelites, The curse devoured the Earth: the wine failed, the vine had no might, the wrath of the Lord was upon the beasts, and the trees of the field, and upon the fruit of the ground; upon their green Gardens and Vineyards, that they were smitten with blastings and mill-dewes, and their fig-trees, and olivetrees were devoured with the Palmer, and cankerworms. Man, The earth is waste, and turned upside down: The land shall b●rn with brimstone and salt, and shall not be sown, neither Isai. Jer. 4. 27. 24. 1. Zeph. 1. 2. jer. 4. 24. shall it bring forth grass. The land shall mourn, and the heavens shall be darkened, the water shall be taken away: The fig-tree shall not flourish: The vines shall bring forth Isai. 3. 1. no fruits: The labour of the Olive shall fail: The sheep Hab. 3. 17. Psal. 107. 14. shall be cut off from the field, there shall be no bullocks in the stalls, and a fruitful land shall become barren. The heavens shall be as Iron, the earth as brass: Destruction Deut. 28. 23. shall be on beasts, fowls, and fishes, and all other Zeph. 1. 2. Isa. 13. 10. Ezek. 14. 13& 5●. 2. Chap. 32. 13. I●r. 5. 25. D●●t 27.& 7. 20. jer. 16. 8.& 12. 4. 2 King. 21. 17. Isai. 55. 1 Pet. 3. 17. Ch. 59. ●. Rom. 8. ●● Jer. 5. 25.& 6. 12. Chap. 7. 10. 1●●. 10. 11 Ezek. 24. Creatures: The voice of mirth and gladness, the bridegroom and the bride shall cease: and curses shall be on man, and in all parts and places, coming in, and going out, Rom. 2. 8. God will take his mercy from him: and every good thing, and will separate him: and his wrath and jealousy shall smoke against him: yea, and he will put out his name from under heaven: and will cut off man and beast with final destruction. jer. 7. ●0. Thus as all Cre●tures were made for man, so were they punished for him. These things came unto them for Examples, and are written to admonish us on whom the ends of the world are come. A Catalogue of Gods instruments of wrath, wherewith he hath punished both Godly and wicked that have sinned. For sin An Angel destroyed seventy thousand Israelites, fourscore and five thousand 2 Sam. 24. 2 Kin. 19. Exod 13. 1 King. 11. M●●th 28. 4. Exod. 15. ●5. I●r. 15. 11. N●●b. 22. G●n. 21. Gen. 2●. 2 Sam. 6. 2 King. 2. jer. 12. 19. 2 King. 6. Gen. 19. Act. 9.& 13. Assyrians, with all the first-born in the land of the Egyptians. Adversaries vexed Salomon: Astonishment the keepers of Christs tomb. amazedness fell on the Dukes of Edom: Archers shot at Babylon. An ass reproved Balaam: Banishment ex●led Ish●ael from Abraham. barrenness was laid on king Ahimelechs wife, with other women in his house, and on Michal Davids Spouse. bears destroyed forty two little mocking children. The burial of an ass, was the burial of King jehoiakim. blindness fell on Syrians, Sodomites, Paul, and Elymas, for a time. Conscience accused King David, and the sons of jacob. Confusion of tongues fell on the builders of Babel with Nimrod. Gen. 11. Dan. 5. Gen. 9.& 3. Chap 4●. Act. 2 Chro. 21. Exo. 13. 2 Sā. 6. Act. 5 Gen. ●8. 2 King. 9. 1 King. 14. Luke 1. 20. 1 Ki. 14.& 2●. judge. 9. 1 Sam. 16. 1 King. 22. Numb. 16. 1 Sam. 14. 1 Sam. 5. 2 King, 6. Lam. 2. 20. Lam. 4. 10. Exod. 15. ●●. jer. 51. 2. Ionob 4. judge. Mat. 28. 4. 9. 18. Exo. 15. 15. Jer. Num. 22. 3. 4. 29. Gen. 20. 10. 2 King. 2. Numb 16. Dan. 3. Levit. 1. Gen. 19. Numb. 11. jer. 49. Amos 1.& 7. 1 King. 14. Esth. 7. 2 Sā. 18. Mat. 27 2 Sam. 17. Changing of countenance, with trembling in all parts of the body, fell on Belshazzar, carousing. Curses were laid on Cham, the Serpent, Reuben, Levi, and Simeon, Simon Magus, and swearers. A Disease incurable fell on jehoram, his guts fell out within him. Death struck suddenly the first-born of the Egyptians, Uzzah, Ananias, Sapphira, Er and Onan. Dogs did eat jezebel, so that she was not butted; together with jehoram, and Iehorams seed. dumbness w●s for a time on Zacharias the priest laid. Evil was brought upon Ierohoam, and king Ahab. An evil spirit was sent between Abimelech and the men of Shechem. another on Saul: and a lying spirit was put into the mouth of Ahabs prophets, to delude him withall. The earth opened, and swallowed up Corah with his company. ●arthquake astonished the whole Army of the Philistines. Emerods did grievously plague them in their inward parts. Famine punished the samaritans, Egyptians, and Israelites, So that their skin became black on them, and their women did eat their own children. faintness fell on the inhabitants of the land of Canaan. Fanners from the Lord famned the land of Babylon. A fervent sun did beat on Ionah's head languishing. fear did strike Gaal after his boasting, so as the shadows of mountaines seemed men unto him, and the Assyrians, that they fled at the noise of horse men. Fire consumed two captains with their fifties, with Corahs confederates; the men that bound the three children; Nadah, Abihu, and the Sodomites with the utmost part of the Israelites: And fire was kindled in the walls of Damascus, in the house of Hazael, and in the p●lace of Kiriah which consumed them. Fowles of the air did eat the stock of jeroboam. The gallows made by Haman served to hang himself thereon. A three for Ahithophel, another for Iudas and Absalom was provided to hang themselves upon. For sin hailstones discomsited five kings against Israel fighting. josh. 10. hardness of heart obdured Pharaoh, and many other men. A House fell upon the Philistines, mocking at Samson. jung. 16. Hunger pined the prodigal: The prison held Manasseh in Babylon. A● Is●ue of blood twelve yeares followed the woman, and for ever was on Matth. 19. 1 King. 2. Exod. 8. 16. Numb. 12. 2 C●●●h 26. 2 〈◇〉. 5. Da 〈…〉 1 King. 13 〈◇〉 20. 2 Ki 17 Exo. 15. 15. Gen. 4. Dan. 4. Gen. 3. Matth. 8. Lam. 5. 5 Gen. 19. Exod. 15. 14 Nam. 16. 49 Exod. 9. 〈◇〉 ●●. Lam. 58. 2 Kin. ●9. 1 Sa. 31. judge. 7. 12. 1 Sam. 14. 2 〈◇〉. 20. 〈◇〉. 19. 2. Gen. 3. Ioahs posterity wished by Salomon. Lice was brought by Gods finger on the Egyptians. leprosy clavae to miriae for a time, to king Uzzah to his dying day, and to Gehazi and his continually. Lions destroyed Daniels accusers, the prophet seduced, and the samaritans: and one Lion the disobeying man. A Mark was set on Cain to brand him for murdering. The mind of a beast was given nabuchadnezzar for boasting. nakedness was laid on Adam and Eve for disobeying. Palsies, and other diseases, vexed divers spoken of ●n the Gospel. persecution brought under the necks of the people of Israel. A Pill●● of S●lt was the change of Lots wife looking to sodom. Scabs w●● brought upon the bodies of the Egyptians. Servants d●d ●eare rule over the Israelites that served them. Sennacher●●● ●wn ●o●s Adramelech and Sharezer slay him. The sword of Saul sl●w himself; and of the Midianites, Egyptians, Ammonites, 〈◇〉, Moabites, and Mount S●ir, were set one against the other. Sweatings were cast on Adam, with labour to eat in, Sorro●es were cast on Eve in her conception, judge. 5 Jo●ah 1. Rom. 11. 8. R●m. 0. 32. Gen. 21. E●●d. 15. 15. L●●● 4. judge 8. 16. 1 Sam. 7. jonah 1. jonah 4. Act. 12 S 〈…〉 di●●●hght against S●sera: storms ●ossed jonah. The spirit of slumber was cast upon the Jews. A stumbling ston was cast before the Jews. Thirst punished Ishmael, Israel, and sucking children. Th●rnes by Gideon did tear the flesh of Succoth men. Thu●d●r did scatter all the army of the Philistines. A Whale w●s provided for jonah, to imprison him. worms smote Ionahs Gourd: and worms that proud Herod. Waters did drown the people of the old world: Pharaoh and his host Gen. 7. Exod. 14. judge. 5. 1 King. 20. Jer ●9 ●6& 51. ●. Ezek. 7. Psal 42. 7. pursuing the Israelites to overtake them; and swept away Sisera fighting against them. A Wall did fall on thousands of Aramites that slay them. winds scattered Elam, destroyed Babel, and the East wind did break in preces the ships of ●arslush in the sea sailing. A Catalogue of Gods instruments of wrath: drawn from Deut. 32. 34. Gods Justice out of his Armourie: being prepared for the wicked and ungodly. jer. 50. 25. The Lord hath prepared for the wicked Armies of sorrows to ca●●pabout, and to bring against them. Job 10. 17. Isai. ●. 11. Nahum 3. 6. Is●●. 13. 8. Psal. 35. 6. job 15. 24. P●al. 64. 7. Deut. ●●. joh ● 4. 2 Sam. 22. Ez●k. 5. 16. Isai. 12. Chap. 6. Hos. 9. 14. Psal. 〈…〉 job 3. 20. Chap. ●●. 2●. job 4. 9. Isai. 11. 4. Deut. 28. 27 job 20. 24. job 13. 13. Nahum 3. 6. Isai. 21. 13. Levit. 26. Psal 50. 20. Psal. 80. 5. 1 King, 2●. Ezek. 7. 26. Amos 4. 6. Jer. 3. 25. page. 90. Isai. 51. 17. Psal. 75. 8 Psal. 7. 13. Adversaries of theirs to bear rule, and to govern over them. Abominable filth, amazedness, and anguish to cast upon them. Angels to persecute them, and afflictions to grieve them. Anger to consume them, and astonishment of heart to fear them. arrows of venom, of famine, and arrows to scatter them. baldness for the head, and blindness for the eyes and heart of them. barrenness for the womb, and dryness for the breasts of their women. Beds of sorrow, and of sickness to cast them in. bitterness for their souls: and bitter things to writ against them. Blasts with the breath of his nostrils, and lips to slay them. Botches of Egypt: and bows of steel in store for them. Breakings upon breakings, and bruises innumerable to crush them. Burdens to lay upon them; brimstone and burning Agues. Bread of tears, of adversity, and of affliction to give them, and by weight to seed them. calamity upon calamity, and rumour on rumour to vex them. Cleannesse of teeth, want of bread, and confusion to cover them. Consumption to consume them, and curses innumerable. Cups of wrath to drink, and read wine to poure on them. Deadly weapons prepared: and destroyers to sand against them. The Lord hath prepared for the wicked darkness in the day time, and groping at noon: darkness for their ways, job 5. 14. Jeph. 4. 18. Chap. 1. ●7. Psal. 35. 6. 2 Thes 2. 11. Jer. 13. 14. Psal. 91. 6. I●r. 14. 16. ●r. 13 3. 〈◇〉 4. 2● Ez●●. 3. 2●. Chap. ●. 26. 〈…〉 5. ●. and understanding, and for the divination of their teachers among them. D●lusions, destructions, distresses, and diseases of all sorts. Death without lamentations, and burials without mourning. Drink by measure with astonishment, and spiritual drunkenness. Du●n●nesse for their Preachers: and Dungeons for themselves. dulness of hearing, and dreadful sounds for their ears. dimness for their eyes: eyes that they shall not see: eyes for evil to set upon them, and ears without hearing. Eatings by weight, with hunger without satisfying of them. The Earth to be as iron under them, heaven as brass over them. Evil Angels to sand among them, and evil things for them. ●aintnesse and feebleness of hands and heart, and for their young. Famine not only of Bread, but also of the Word. Amos 8. 1. . fear where no fear is, on every side to affright them, to cause the heart and bones to tremble of them; yea, such as that one Godly man shall chase a thousand of them, and the shaking of a lease shall fear them. fitness for their hearts, bravinesse for their ears, and shutting for their eyes, so that the means of their Conversion shall be thereby taken Isai. 6. 10. from them. foolishness to turn their counsel into, and for their counsellors. job 5. 13. 〈◇〉 ●4 ●●. 〈…〉 2. Jer. 6. ●9. Friends of their own to deal treacherously with them. Fruits of their own evil thoughts to bring upon them. His Face to set against them, as burning, his lips full of indignation, and hi● tongue as fire devouring. Garments of vengeance, and girdles of sack-cloth. Gnashing of teeth, gravel for their mouth, and groping at noon. Gods made by mens hands, and griefs to add to their sorrows. H●mmers to break them, hardness and heaviness of heart for them. Hearts with sorrow and fear, as a woman traveling, to give them. The Heavens to reveal their iniquities, and dust to witness against them. Howlings for their songs in the Temple with Lamentations: As also for the rich men that dwell among them. Hunger to pine them within: and itches for their bodies without. jealousy to burn: and inquisition for the thoughts of them. Indignation, i●on weapons, and instruments of death for them. Lam●nesse for their members, and labour without profit for them. Lamentations in stead of Songs; with mournings and woes. Languishing for their hautines●e, and leannes●e for their souls. ●othings ev●n of themselves, with loathsome diseases. ●unatiquenesse to vex them, madness, and evil spirits to possess them. M●●tings for their hearts, with miseries to heap upon them. 〈…〉. M●●ah 3. 6. Job 19 ●.& 18. 8. Jer. 12. 13.&. 30. ● Isai. 21. 4. Mournings and Lamentation in stead of Banqu●tting and Feasts. moths as a●g●●ment and worms as wool to eat them. nakedness in stead of clothing, and Ne●● to spread over them. paleness for their face, 〈◇〉, for their hearts, and poverty Pa●●es-taking without profit, and perishing for their wisdom. P●●s of Iron to writ and grave their sins. ●oints of Diamonds in the Table of their hearts. Jer. ●●. ●. Isai. ●2. 23. Isai 〈…〉 Deut. 28 Psal. 82. 16. Job 8. 22.& 9. 23. 2 Cor ●. 10. Zeph. 11. 16. Job 3. 24. 〈…〉 Thes. 2. 11. Micah 7. 6. Prison-Houses, and imprisonment for the bodies of them. rebuk, with ●●ames of fire to rendes upon them. Reprobate mi●●les, reproach, and r●les of Lamentations. Ro●●ennesse for their bones: and robbers to spoil them of their goods. 〈◇〉 〈◇〉 their wives, and wives betrothed without marriage. Rods of his mouth, and ●ods of iron to break them. sadness for the countenance: and s●abs in abundance for their bodies. shane to fill their faces: with confusion and dishonour to cloth them. Scourges to 〈◇〉 them: Shakings for their loins, and sickness to death. Shepherds that shall not regard them, yet shall eat the fat of them. Sighings before they eat: and in cating with roarings following. Slaughters for the iniquities of their fathers, and remembrance of their sins. Snares of the devil to trap them, in the works of their own hands to take them, and snares of fire and brimstore to rain upon them, to compass them, and in their Tables and in death to take them. The son to rise against the father, and the mother against, &c. The Lord hath prepared for the wicked The spirit of slumber to cover them, their Prophets and Seers; the spirit 2 Tim. 1. 7. Rom. 11 ● 〈◇〉. 29. 10. Ch●p. 19. 24. I●h 6 7. 〈◇〉 8. 15. 〈◇〉 61. 3. jer. 9. 6. Ezek. 27. 7. Jer. 6. 21. Rom. 11. of error, to mingle among them; of bondage, to fear them▪ of heaviness, to afflict them; and of his mouth, to consume them. Strangers to bring on them to possess their goods, wife, and children. Stumbling blocks to lay before them, for they and theirs to fall upon. straightness in the fullness of sufficiency, and staining for Glory. Job 20. 22. Isa. 28. 9 Ezek. 20. 25. Statutes and Judgements that are not good to give them. Sowings without reaping, oil without anointing, wine without drinking. Micab 6. 15. Rev. 2. 16. Psal. 37. 5. Levit. 5. 25. Deut. 32. Psal. 80. 5. jo●●. 4. Job 3. 25. Dan. 4. 2. Psal. ●4. 8. job 38. 2. Lam. ●. jo. 14. 19. job 18. 10. Hos. 3. 16. Rom. 3. ●. ilb 15. 24. Psal. 146. 9. jer. 20. 4. Psal. 78. 33. ●sai. 47. 3. Rom. 15. 7. Ch. 1. 26. Rom. 1. 24. Ie●. 32. ●. Luk. 20. Psal 42 7. jer. 23 15. Isai. 22. 12. Job 4. 14. Psa. 60. 3. jer. ●0. 14. Psal. 68 21. job 7. 5. je. 9. 15 jer. 33. 36. Psal. 147. 18. The sword of his mouth, sharp and furbished, to fight against them: Swords of their own to enter into the bowels of them, and to execute vengeance on them. tears to drink: and terrors to set in array against them. Things, such as they are afraid of, to bring upon them. Thoughts and visions on their beds, and in sleep to trouble them. Tongues of their own, in their own words to trap them. Treasures of hail, Snow, and Frost to punish them. Tributes by oppression of others to lay upon them. Troubles in stead of peace, and traps in ways to take them. Tremblings for their belly and bones; and tribulation for their souls. Troubles, anguish, affliction, and turnings upside down. terrors arising from within themselves to terrify them. Vanities to consume their dayes and yeares in. Vengeance to take of them, as also to poure out on them. Vials full of wrath, and vile affections to give them. uncleanness to leave them in, and voices of trembling. warriors to slay them, and continual warres for them. Waves to go over them: Waters with gull to drink for them. Weepings, Mournings, baldness, and Girdings of sackcloth. Wine of astonishment, and Winds to make the hair stand. Wounds for their heads; and of an enemy to wound them. worms to cloth them with; and Wormwood to feed them. Words of their own to be a burden unto them. His Words to melt and consume both body and soul. Wrath To wax hot against them; to speak in unto them. Wrath To drink for them, and to burn and consume them. Iud●. 2. 14. Psal. 89. 46. Job 21. 20. G●. 6. 7. ye like morsels, snow like wool, frost like ashes. Psal. 147. 16. 17. Luke 21. 22. Hos. 9. 7. Isai. 14. 24.& 22. 5. Isai. 62 4. jo. 12. 13. Ezek. 27. 27. Job 21. 30.& 30. 27 Dayes o● Trouble, of Visitation, of recompense, of Treading down of perplexity, of Vengeance, of Slaughter, of calamity, of Destruction, Isai. 13. 9.& 37. 3. Amos 8. 10. of Affliction, of ruin, of distress, of darkness and gloominess, of Desolation, and of Wasting. In the world to come Judgement and Damnation. This is the portion of wicked men, and the heritage of Tyrants, which they Nahum 3. 6. shall receive of the almighty. job 27. 13. There shall be no end of Pl●gues to the wicked man. The light of the wicked shall be put out. Use. Seeing God hath so many plagues in store for the sinful man; Let him follow Luke 21. 36. the counsel given by Daniel: Break of his sins by righteousness, and his iniquities by mercies: which that we may all do the Lord grant. Dan. 4. 24. read Levit. 26. 14. Deut. 28. Chap. 32. Isai. 9. 20. Chap. 30. 28. Chap. 31. 2. Chap. 34. 6. Chap. 59. 17. Chap. 62. 6. Chap 66. 25. jer. 5. 3. Chap. 30. 14. Chap. 31. 5. Chap. ●6. 6. Ezek. 5. 12. Nahum. 3. 2. job 20. 29. Psal. 32. 6. Psal. 81. 12. Psal. 147. 17. ● Tim. 1. 20. Revel. 2. 6. Chap. 8. 7. Chap. 9. 5, 18. Chap 14. 10. Chap. 16. 1. Chap. 1●. Chap. 20. Wisd. 5. 17. sir. 39. 28. Chap. 40. 9. job 18. 5. Chap. 20. 22. Isai. 5. 24. Chap. 19. 2. The Lord hath prepared for the sin of the wicked Brambles in stead of corn Isai. 14. 4. Cha. 32. 13 Isa. 34. 13. Mat. 13. job 31. 4. Gen. 3. jer. 12. 13. cockle in stead of corn To grow in their land. Nettles in stead of corn To grow in their land. Tares in stead of corn To grow in their land. Thistles in stead of corn To grow in their land. thorns in stead of corn To grow in their land. darkness To possess their Lands. jer. 25. 11. Exod. 10. 22. Isa. 13. 9. Exod. 8. 3. Isai. 24 12. Isai 18. 6. Isai. 14. 23. Ezek. 14. 16. Isai. 31 14. Isai. 34. 11. Chap 34. 11. Lam. 5. 2. Desolation To possess their Lands. ●lyes To possess their Lands. frogs To possess their Lands. Wild-beasts To possess their Lands. bitterness To possess their Lands. Cormorants To possess their Lands. Dragons To possess their Lands. Hedge-hogs To possess their Lands. owls To possess their Lands. P●llicans To possess their Lands. satires To possess their Lands. Vultures To possess their Lands. Strangers To possess their Lands. Deut. 28. 38. barrenness to destroy their Land. Psal. 107. 34. Jer. 9. Hos●. 4. ●. Isa. 28. 2. hail and Thunder to destroy their Land. A bosom of Destruction to sweep their Land. Isai. 14 23. hail and Thunder To slay their beasts& cattle. Psal 78. 48. The Lord hath prepared for the sin of the wicked Blastings To consume the fruit of their fields and trees. Deut. 28 38. Amos 4.9. Ioel 11 4. jer 7. 20. Ioel 2 9. Exod 10. 15. Hag. 2. 7. Jer. 12. 4. Mat 6. 19. Iam. 5. 2. Canker worms To consume the fruit of their fields and trees. Fier-flames To consume the fruit of their fields and trees. Fury-locusts To consume the fruit of their fields and trees. Mildewes To consume the fruit of their fields and trees. Palmer worms To consume the fruit of their fields and trees. Wastings To consume the fruit of their fields and trees. moths To consume their garments and treasures. Rust and Canker To consume their garments and treasures. Brimstone to turn Dust into. jer. 50. 30. Exod. 7. 26. Isai. 34. 9. blood to turn Rivers into. Drought to turn Waters into. Pitch to turn Streams into. Consumptions for their Beasts jer. 12. 4 Ha. 3. 17 Hos. 4. 3. Hos. 4. 3. Exo 9. 3. Zep. 1. 3. Eze 30. 12 Destructions for their sheep Languishings for their Fowles Murrens for their cattle Death for their Fish Curses for their Habitations. 2 King. 22. 19. Hos. 13. 15. Jam. 5. 2. jer. 12 13 Mich. 6. 15. Lev. 26. 11. Lev. 28. 38. Deut. 28. 28. Ioel 1. 17. Mal 3. 11. dryness for their Springs. Wastings for their Cities. Desolations for their Sanctuary. Locusts for their Seed. rottenness for their grain. Witherings for their corn. Breakings for their barrenness. emptiness for their Garners. Devourers for their sacks. So that the saying of the Prophet Haggai is verified saying, They have sown much and Hab. 3. 17. job 24. 18. bring in little, they eat but they have not enough, they drink but they are not filled, they cloath themselves, but they are not warmed, they earn wages and put it into a bag with holes: They Hag. 1. 6, 9. looked for much, but lo it cane to little, for when they brought it home the Lord did blow upon it. Woes pronounced by God against Sinners. Woe be to those that are Blind-guides not able to direct the people for their good. jer. 23. 1. Mat. 23. 13. jer. 22. 13. Hab. 2. 12. Mat. 18. Isai. 10. 1. Is. 5. 18. Is 5. 12 Ch. 28. 1. Mat. 23. Is. 31. 1 Ho. 7. 13. c. 9. 12 Ezek. 13. 3. Luk. 6. 24. Isai. 5 8. Mic 2. 1. Isa. 5. 23 Lu. 6. 24. Hos. 7. ●3.& 9. 12. jo. 23. ●. Luk. 11. 46. Hab. 2. 15. Isai. 5. 20. 1 Cor. 9. 16. Isai. 30. 1. Isai. 5. 11. Luk. 6. 24. jer. 29. 15. Isai. 5. 20. Builders of houses by unrighteousness and cities with blood. Cause●s of offence unto others by their means. Decreers of wicked decrees and grievous things. Hab. 2. 9. Drawers of iniquity with cords of vanity. Drunkards to poure in strong drink being mighty. Devourers of poor distress widows habitation. Doers of wickedness to those that do not hurt them. Isa. 33. 1. Hab. 2. 15. Mich. 3. 2. Hab. 2. 6. Flyers from God: and to those that God departeth from. Foolish Prophets not following Gods Spirit, but their own. Full ones, for they shall become hungry again. joiners of house to house and field to field by deceitfulness. Imaginers of iniquity and workers of wickedness. Justifiers of the wicked and ungodly men for a reward. Laughe●s, for they shall at lengsh mourn( saith the Lord.) Loaders with grievous burdens of other men. Makers of their neighbours by their means drunken. Placers of bitter for sweet, and draknesse for light. Preachers and yet preach not the word of God aright. Rebellious, not taking counsel from the Lord of might. Risers early that they may follow drunkenness. Rich-men, for they have in this world their happiness. Seekers and that to hid their counsel from God. Speaking good of that which is evil, and evil of good. Woe be to those that are Speakers of evil, of that which is not known of them, and that say to their Isai 45. ●. father, what hast thou begotten. St●ivers with the Lord God their maker. Isai: 45. 9. Sowers of pillows under the arme-holes of other. Ezek: 13. 18. Shutters up of the kingdom of Heaven before men. Mat. 2●. 13. Takers away of the righ●eousnesse of the righteous man. Isa. 5. 23. Trusters not in the Lord, but in the strength of horses. Isa. 31. 1. Isa. 30 1. Zach 11. 17. Users of their neighbours without giving them wage●. jer. 22. 13. Wanton● by ease: and wise in their own opinion. Am. 6. ●. Isa. 5. 21. Worshippers of false gods, and Idols invented by man. H●b. 2. 19. Wi●ked-men, for that their increase shall come to nothing: and the reward Ecclus 4●▪ Isa. ●. 11. of their own hands shall be given. Woe be to the fearful hearts, and faint hands, and to sinners that go two Ecclus. 2. 1●. &c. ways, and to him that hath lost patience, for what will he do when the Lord shall visit him. Curses pronounced by God against Sinners. Cursed is the man that Addeth ●o, or taketh away from the word of the Lord. Revel. 22. 18. P●●l 119. 21. 〈◇〉 2●. ●●. I●●. 11. ●. Prov. 2●. ●●. I●●.〈…〉 Continueth not in all things written in the Law of God. nurseth his father, mother or any of the godly. Doth the work of the Lord his God negligently. Gen. 12. 3. Pro ●0. ●0& 8 27▪ jer. 11. 3▪ Hangeth on a three, so was Christ for us to set us at liberty. De●. 2●. 2▪ Ga. 3. 13 Hind●reth the right of a stranger, widow and fatherless, &c. Deut 27. 19. Keepeth back his ●●thes, offerings that belong to the Minister. Mal 3. 9. Li●th with his Fathers wife, his sister or near affinity. Deut. 27. 2●, ●3 Maketh by any means the blind to go ou● of his way. Deut. 27. 18. Maketh any carved or melted image for worshipping. Deut. 27. 15. Removeth ●is neighbours bounds and marks to defraud him. Deut. 27. 17. Sacrificeth ● corrupt thing unto the Lord his God. Ma●. 1. 14. Saith un●o the ungodly man, thou art righteous and good. Prov. 24. 24. Putteth his trust in man, and that taketh flesh for his arm. jer. 17. 5. Smiteth his neighbour privily, and not seen by any one. Deut. 27. 24. With-draweth his heart from God, and from the people his corn. Prov. ●●. 26. Sinneth be he young or old: together with the house w●●rein he dwelleth: Prov. 3. 33. and▪ the goods that he enjoyeth. Christ shall say unto in the day of judgement, ●ep. ●●●rom me. joh 24 18. Ma●. 2●. 41. Pro. 11 ●● Cursed The Lord The Serpent above all other beasts and c●ttell. Gen 3. 14. The Lord Kaine and the earth for k●lling A●el. The Lord The earth for Adam and Eves transgr●ssi●n. The Lord judah with the people for disobeying 〈◇〉. Christ The fig-tree for finding on it nought but leaves. Mark. 11. Noah Cham for discovering his nakedness. Gen. 9. jacob Simeon and Levies wrath for slaying the Shechemites. Gen 49 josh. 9. Iud. 5. 2 Kin. 2 1 ●●. ●6. ●9. Neh. 13. 2●. joshuah The Gibeonites f●r that they had beguiled him. An angel Meroz with the inhabitants dwelling therein. Elisha The children that c●l'd him bald-pate, deriding him. David The men that ●ad driven him from the house of God. N●hemiah Those men that had taken wives of the daughters of Ashdod. Peter Simon Magus with his money, profe●ing to buy the gift of Act. 8. 20. God. The Shechemi●es cursed Ahimelech, breaking their promise with him. Iud. 9. 27. Shimei and goliath cursed David: An Israelite the name of God. 2 Sa. 16. 1 Sa. ●7. Lev. 24. 1● The ends of them all were miserable, as it is recorded. The men that cloath themselves with cursing as with garments, it shall come into his bowels like water, and as oil into his bones▪ Psal. ●0●. ●8. As the bide by wandring, and as the Swallow by flying: so the curse causeless Prov. 26. ●. Prov. 30. 11 Nu 23. 23& 23 ●●. ●● sir. 28 13. shall not come. There i● a generation that nurseth their Father, and that doth not bless their Mother. Gods Justice mans Heart how hardened by God. THe heart hath three Cells or little R●ceptacles, that the three Persons of the blessed Trinity, Father, son and Holy Ghost may dwell therein, and that by three theological virtues, to wit, by Faith, Hope and Charity. The word Heart in latin is COR, written with these three letters: COR Signifying Camera, a Chamber. The first letter of Omnipotent. The first letter of Rex, a King. So that the An●gram, as some would have it, importeth that the Heart is the Chamber of the omnipotent King of Heaven and Earth; and so the heart is the Seat of Sanctity, or else it must needs be a Cage of uncleanness, a chapel for the Trinity, or a Den of thieves. hardness of heart is the fountain of ignorance, and is when a man is settled in a resolution never to yield from the state of sin, wherein he liveth, whatsoever shall or may be said against the same: which sin is a most wilful and malicious Eph 4. 8. resolution of sinning, yea such as that the heart cannot be brought by Gods justice or mercy to reformation or consolation. 1. There are some albeit they well know, that they are amiss, yet for some worldly respect or other, they will not yield nor change their course do, say, or prove what you will or can: Such was Pilates, who albeit he knew that he condemned Mat 27. our Saviour Christ wrongfully, yet not to loose the favour of the Iewes, or incur displeasure with the Prince, he proceeded and gave that most wicked sentence against him. Such also was Pharaoh's; the like was in King Agrippa and Felix, governours of jury, who thought in their own consciences, that Saint Paul spake truth unto them; yet not to hazard their credit in the world, they continued still in their own ways: And so likewise do all persecutors. 2. The second degree of obduration is in them, who have not this obduration in so high a degree, as to persist in wickedness, directly against their own knowledge, but yet they have it in another sort, so that they are settled in firm purpose to follow the trad●, which already they have begun, and will not understand the danger thereof, but do seek other means▪ to persuade themselves, quieting their consciences therein, and nothing is so offensive unto them, as to hear any thing against the same: Of these men job speaketh( saying) Depart joh 21. 14. from us, wee desire not the knowledge of thy ways( to wit) the ways of God. 3. A heart that is hardened, is ingratefull for Gods benefits, disobedient to his counsels, fears not itself, because it feels not itself Bernard. l. de Consed. ad Eug. cap. 2. : is not rent with compunction, nor softened with pi●ty, is not moved with prayers, nor yeeldeth to threats, grows tough with scourges, and unthankful for benefits, is unfaithful in counsels and cruel in judgements, is impudent in vileness, and unfearefull in dangers, is uncourteous to the gentle, and unreverent in Gods worship, is unmindful of things past, and negligent of things present, is improvident of things to come: and in a word, is like the unrighteous Judge, that ●eared Luk. 18. 22. neither God or man. The hardest creatures are flectable to some agents: Flints to the r●ine: Iron to the fire, stones to the Hammer, but the heart to nothing: Rom. 9. 18. Isa. 19. 14. 1 Kin. 22. 23. Isai. 63. 17. Rom 1. 28. 2 Sam. 12. 11. Psal. 105. 25. Phil. 2. 13. 1 Cor. 11. 12. Hos. 8. 10. Ezek. 16. 26. Ephes. ●. 10. Act. 14. 6. 1 Sam. 16. 14. 2 Thes. 2. 10. Rom. 1. 24. Psal. 81. 12. 1 King. 22. 23. the stones of mercy, Hammer of reproof, or fire of judgements cannot soften the same. 1. Now the action whereby God is said to obdure, to blind, to deceive, to deliver into a reprobate mind, ●o work by wicked persons, as his instruments to impel, to excite to evil, &c. is not an action, or infusion, or positive production, such as he useth in the just, when he causeth virtue and grace, and doth illuminate and sanctify them: but a work of desertion, permission and order, whereby first God leaveth man to himself, and forsaketh him,( that is) affordeth not actions apt and congruous to reform him, and suspendeth or denieth the concourse of his special help and grace. 2. God suffereth man to be tempted above his strength, or to be ruled by his errors and transported by his own concupiscence, permitting Satan to exercise his subtlety and malice towards him. 3. God ordereth objects and means in such sort, as that they may be incentives by way of occasion to provoke the wicked to exercise that wickedness, which is in and of themselves, where and how God will have it break out for punishment, correction, example or trial. These two namely Entity or Substance, and the pravity of the actions, going inseparably together, and the latter cannot be without the tormer. Say not thou then, It is through the Lord that I sell away, for thou oughtest sir. 15. 11, 12. not to do the things that be hateth. Say not thou, He hath caused me to err, for he hath no need of the sinful man. Through hardness of heart Agrippa believed not altogether that which Paul concerning Christ had Act. 26. delivered unto him. The Disciples considered not the matter of the Loaves with which Christ Mark 6. 52. had fed the multitude following him. Act. Idolaters, 24. 26. Isa. 44. 20. Felix believed not Pauls doctrine, trembling at the same. Gentiles walked in the vanities of their own liking. Eph. ●●r. 5. 3. 4. 17. Zech. 7. 11, 12. I●a. 2. Act. 13. 41. Isai. 6.& 19. 9. 10. Isai. 63. 17. Psal. 81. 12. Deut. 29. 4. Gen. ●●. 5. Ezek. 24. 4. Eph. 4. 17. Mark ●. ●2. Deut. 2. 30. josh. 11. 20. Hophni and Phineas sinned, that God might slay them. The Israelites feared not God, understood not the counsels of the Lord, nor his ways, but walked in their own counsels, grieving him, for which he plagued them. Kings of divers Nations came to battle against the Israelites, that the Lord might by their hands destroy them. Cain, Iudas, and Abithophel despaired of Gods mercy to them. Pharaoh would not let the Israelites depart, until the Lord had brought Exod. 4. Chap. 6. &c. Mark 3. 5. Matth. 27. judas 7. Sodomites 1 Kings 12. 15. a Chron. 10. 15. many plagues upon his, and him. The pharisees envied Christ; for which he mourned for them. Pilate would not set Christ at liberty, albeit he found no cause of death at all in him. Rehoboam hearkned not unto the counsel of the old men, because it was the Ordinance of the Lord to perform what he had spoken by the Prophet unto Ierohoam. The Lord hath mercy on whom be will, and whom he will be hardeneth. Rom. 9. 18. Isa. 63 17. jo●●. 4. Zech. 7. 12. 1 King. 8. 39. Prev. 17. 3. Psal. 105. 25. The wicked make their hearts as an Adamant, lest they should hear. The Lord knoweth the hearts of men, and trieth them, as the fining-pot doth the silver, and turneth them to hate his people, and to deal craftily with them. Use. Exhort one another daily, while it is called to day, l●st any of you be hardened through Heb. 1. 13. Prev. 28. 14. joh 17. 4.& 19. 3. Act. 3. 41. Deut. 2●. 4. the deceitfulness of sin. Isai. 6. 9. Chap. 44. 18. Chap. 63. 17. 2 Chron. 36. Psal. 81. 12. Matth. 13. 13. Mar. 4. 12. joh. 12. 40. Act. 13. 41. Rom. 1. 24. Chap. 2. 5. Chap 11. 7. 2 Cor. 3. 14. Ecclus. 23. Heb. 6. 2 Cor. 3. 14, 15. Ephes. 4. 8, 1 Thes. 5. 1 Tim 4. 2. sir. 6. 16. Act. 19. 9. Mans Heart is deceitful. THe imaginations of the thought of mans heart are evil continually. Gen. 6. 5. job 9. 4. Cha. 8. 21 Prov. 28. 14. Eccl. 9. 3. Act. 26. 27. Jer. 17. 9. Matth. 17. 19. Mar. 7. 21. sir. 13. 25. The heart of man is full of evil and madness, is deceitful, and wicked above all things, who can know it? from thence come evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false testimonies, slanders. Use. Prov. 4. 23. Use. Jer. 4. 4. Use. Let us pray the Lord to give us a new Spirit, to take away our stony hearts, and Ezek. 11. 19. Chap. 16. 26. to give us hearts of flesh, that we may walk in his statutes, and keep his Judgements. Gods Justice evil how permitted by God. GOd permitteth evil by a certain voluntary permission, in that he forsaketh the Rom. 1. 26. 2 Tim. 2. 23. second cause in working evil, and his Creature, either by detracting the grace it had, or not best owing that it wants. Now that which is evil hath some respect of goodness with God for three causes: 1. First, in that it is the punishment of sin. 2. Secondly, As it is a new Action or Act. 3. Thirdly, As it is a Chastisement, a trial of ones faith, a martyrdom, and propitiation for sin, as the death and passion of Christ( as the Apostle saith;) Him, I say, being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye have Act. 2. 23. taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain. 1. If we observe these Caveats, God is not only a bare permissive Agent in an evil work, but a powerful effectour of the same, yet so as he neither instilleth an Note. aberration into the action, nor yet supporteth or intendeth the same; but that he most freely suffereth evil, and best disposeth of it to his own glory. As for Example let a man spur forward a lame horse; in that he moveth forward, the Rider is the cause, but that he halteth, the horse himself is the cause. The like may be said of Gods action in an evil subject. 2. Observe that there is Malum poenae,& malum culpae: The evil of punishment, jer. 39. 16. and the evil of sin: Now the Lord is the author of the evil of punishment for sin, but not of the evil of sin, &c. Chap. 49. 37. The Lord is said To bring evil upon Jerusalem, upon job, and upon the wicked; and to determine Jer. 44. 2. Job 42. 21. jer. 6. 3. Micah 1. 12. I●r. 39. 16. 2 saint. 12. 1 Ap●. 14. Ch. 21. 22. Deut. 29. 28. josh. 23. 25. Amo● 3. 6. Isai. 31. 1. Chap. 45. 7. Chap. 4●. jer. 4. 10. Ezek. 14. 9. 2 saint. 17. jer. 6. 21. Izek. 3. 26. Is●t. 19. 14. 1 Chron. 21. judge. 9. 23. 2 Sam. 16.& 18. Psal. 78. 49. 2 ●las. 2. 11. 2 Sam. 24. Chap. 16. 10. Rom. 9. 17. Psal. 90. 3. evil against the house of Judah, to set his face for evil, not for good against Jerusalem. To raise evil against David, to bring evil upon Icroboam, Ahab, and their posterity, on the house of the wicked, and on those that served other gods: so that there should not be evil in a city, but it should come from him. To create light and darkness, the destroyer to destroy, &c. To deceive the people and prophet, and to destroy Abithophels counsel, that he might bring evil on Absalom. To lay a stumbling block before the people that commit iniquity. To mingle the spirit of error among the heathen, to sand a lying spirit into the mouth of Ahabs prophets, with an evil spirit on the men of Shechem, and king Saul, and evil Angels on wicked men with strong delusions. To move David to number the people, to will Shimei to curse, to stir up Pharaoh to show his power in him, and to turn man to destruction. Use. Amos 3. 6. Isai. 45. 7. Pray with David that thy heart be not inclined to evil, to commit wicked actions. Psal. 14. 4. Gods Tempting and How God is said to tempt. TEmptation is nothing else but the enticement of the soul or heart, either by the corruption of Mans Nature, the allurements of the world, or the devil, to any sin. In this manner God tempteth not, for he cannot be tempted to evil, neither tempteth he any man to evil: for out of the mouth of the most High james 1. 13. proceedeth not good and evil, but we are drawn on to the same divers ways, but especially three ways: 1. By the devil who waiteth to work out overthrow and damnation. 2. By our concupiscence in consenting to Satans suggestion, and 3. By vicious company, being seduced by ill persuasion. Now God may be said to lead into Temptation of Probation. 1. By universal probatory precepts; such was Abrahams to kill his son. Gen. 22. 2 Cor. 12. 7, 8, &c. 1 Kin. 22. 2. By sending extraordinary measure of prosperity, or adversity. 3. By letting Io●se of Satan( his B●n-dogge) to buffet and molest the Godly, as Paul was; or to seduce the wicked, as Ahabs prophets were. 4. By offering occasions and objects, to try whether a man will sin or not; like a master suspecting his servant, which in word professeth sidelitie, lays a purse of money in his ways, to try if he will steal it, now the trying of him is no sin, though his servant sin in stealing. In the same manner God tempteth his own Deut. 13. 3. servants, to prove and try them, to know whether they love him or not. 5. By withdrawing his grace: yet this can be no sin in God, because he is bound to no man to give him grace, and here is a difference between the tempting Hos. 5. 15. Rom. 1. 26. Act. 5. 3. of God and Satan: God holds back Grace when he tempts: the devil suggests evil motions in his tempting. 6. In every action, so far forth as it is an action, the same is good, and of God, for in him we live, move, and have our being: As for Example, one man kills another, Act. 17. 28. the very moving of the body in doing of the villainy is of God, but the wickedness of the action is from man, and the devil who thrust him forward to do the same. 7. By correcting and humbling his servants for their sins, to try how they will abide the cross: so he afflicted the Israelites and king Hezekiah, to see what was Deut. 8 2. 2 Chron. 31. in his heart: whereas the devils end in tempting is only to bring the party unto destruction. The Lord trieth Abraham, by commanding him to offer up Isaac his son. Gen. 22. Exo●. 16. 4 2 〈◇〉. 32. 31. Exod. 20. 2●. judge. 2. 22. Chap. 2. 1. Psal. 81. 7. The Lord trieth The Israelites By causing bread to rain from Heaven. By thunder and lightning at the giving of the law unto them. The Lord trieth The Israelites By suffering idolaters among them. The Lord trieth David, by his knowing of him in his down-sitting, and up▪ rising. Psal. 130. 1. The Lord trieth job, by affl●cting him, even as gold is tried by men. Job 23. 10. Gē. 39. 7. The Lord trieth Christ, as he was man, by suffering Satan to tempt him. Matth. 4. Christ trieth Peter, by willing him to come on the waters unto him. 〈◇〉 33. 1. Psal. 3 2. Christ trieth Philip, by asking him where he should have bread enough to feed all the Matth. 4. joh. 6. 5. mu●ti●ude that followed him. Christ trieth Saint Paul, and other Godly persons, by mockings and scourgings, and 2 Cor. 11. Heb. 1. 36, 37. by bonds and imprisonment, that they might obtain by him the first Resurrection. God Trieth the Godly as silver is tried, but delivereth them again. Psal. 66. 10. God He prov●th men to see if they love him entirely. Deut. 1●. 3. think it not strange( saith Saint Peter) concerning the fiery trials that are among 1 Pet. 4. 12. you, as though s●me strange thing were come unto you. There is no temptation hath taken you,( saith Saint Paul) but such as is common 1 Cor. 10. 13. to men: But God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that you are able: but w●ll with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it. God will try the righteous,( saith David:) and knoweth how to deliver Psal. 1●. 5. 2 Pet. 2. 9. them out of temptation,( saith Saint Peter.) Gods Justice One sin punished. For one sin The Angels were cast down from Heaven into darkness, judge. 6. Adam and Eve were both turned out of Paradise. Gen. 3. Cain was cast out from Gods presence. Gen. 4. Ishmael was cast out from Abrahams house. Gen. ●1. Cham was cast out of his fathers favour. Gen. 2. jonah was cast out of the ship into the water. jonah 1. Saul was cast out from being King any longer. 1 Sam. 15. Abimelech● wife and other his women were made barren. Gen. 20. Achan w●s stoned to death, his cattle, wife, and children. josh. 7. Ananias and Saphira were strucken dead one after the other. Act. 5. Dan. 5. 6. Bethshemites were slain fifty thousand in number. 1 Sam. 6. 19. Two captains with their fi●ties with fire were consumed. 1 King. 1. David had seventy thousand subjects destroyed. 2 Sam. ●& 12. 10. Daniel's accusers, with their wives, by Lions perished. Dan. 6. Dives not relieving Lazarus is in h●ll damned. Luk 16. 〈◇〉 ●2. 1●. G●n. 11. Esau selling his birth-right, lost his fathers blessing. Gen. 25. Er and Onan doing wickedly, were both of them slain. Gen. 38. Hezekiah's posterity and treasures were into Babel carried. 2 Kin. 20. Herod was strucken, and eaten with worms, and so dyed. Act. 12. Gideon brought the Lords wrath on all his posterity. judge. 5. Gehazi with all his seed were plagued with leprosy. 2 King. 5. I●roboam's hand was withered, so that he could not move it. 1 King. 1●. Iehoshaphat's ships were broken, so they could not traffic. 2 Chron. 20. Israelites were to the number of three thousand slain. Exod. 32. josiah that godly King dyed by the hand of an Egyptian. 2 Chron. 32. konrah with his company were into the earth swallowed. Numb. 16. Korah's Confederates were with fire from God destroyed. Idem. Lots wife looking back into a Pillar of Salt was turned. Gen. 19. Levites wife playing the whore, was to death abused. judge. ●0. miriae speaking against Moses was leprous for a time. Numb. 10. 12. Michal to her dying day, for deriding David, was barren. 2 Sam. 6. 23. Moses and Aaron entred not into the Land of Canaan. Deut. 32. 51. The man Disobeying the prophet was by a Lion slain. 1 King. ●0. The man Gathering sticks on the Sabbath was stoned. Numb. 15. The man Blasphemed the Name of God was stoned. Levit. 14. The men Of Ashdod were with Emerods plagued. 1 Sam. 5. The men Sent to spy out Canaan in the plague died. Heb. 3. 10. For one sin Many little children were with bears destroyed. 2 Kin. 2. Nimrod was the cause that all languages were confounded. Gen. 11. Nadab and Abihu were both with fire consumed. Lev. 10. 1. Pharaoh and Abimelech taking Abrahams wife, were plagued, Gen: 12. Ch: 20 Prophet seduced was in the way slain by a lion. 1 Kin: 13. Prince of Samariah was in the gate to death trodden. 2 Kin: 7. Peter was called Satan by Christ rebuking him. Mar 18. Reuben lost his dignity for lying with his fathers concubine. Gen 49. Shechem and Hamor, and all the Shechemites were slain. Gen. 34. Shemaiah and all his seed were brought to destruction. jer. 29. Simon Magus had a curse by the Apostle pronounced against him. Act. 8. Euticus fell down dead: Elimas was blind suddenly. Act. 20. Ch. 13. Uzzah was strucken dead: Uzziah with leprosy. 2 Sam. 6. 2 Chr. 26. Zacharias was strucken dumb, and that for his incredulity. Lu. 1. 20. All mankind by Adams transgression are damned without Gods great love 1 Cor. 15. 21. towards them in Christ extended: who for the sin of man most willingly suffere●. Use. If God( as you have heard) spared not his own son, because he took our sins upon him, but punished him so sharply, what shall we look for, unless we repent? And if the justice of God be so great against sin, that he spared not the Elect, though they be justified by Christ, but chastened them; what then shall the wicked and impenitent sinner look for? If God have punished one sin so severely in the Angels, in Adam, and in other godly men, what shall we look for that have committed so many sins against 2 Peter 22. judge. 6. him? If God have damned so many for lesser 〈…〉 s then ours are, what will he do to us for greater? If God have born longer with us, then he hath done with many other, whom he hath cut off without giving them time of Repentance. What reason is there that he should bear longer with us? If God have not spared the natural branches, let us then dread for whom these 1 Cor. 10. 11. ensamples are written to admonish us. To avoid sin think of The worlds vanity, to contemn it: of death, to expect it: of judgement, to avoid it: of hell, to escape it: and of Heaven to attain it. Gods Justice evil with evil punished. SUch is the Justice of God, as that he hath ordained, that men shall be rewarded Mat. 15. 11. in their kind, like for like, according to Christs saying, With what measure ye meet, it shall be measured to you again. Wherein wee may observe the rule of Gods Justice in the punishment of sin, in the same kind that men offend, And herein God deals with man according unto Davids prayer( saying) Reward Psal. 111. 28. 4. them O Lord according to their deeds, and according to the wickedness of their inventions: recompense them a●ter the works of their own hands, and render them their rewards. Adam and Eve Eating of the three of knowledge of good and evil, of which they should not have eaten, were both barred of the three of life, whereof they Gen. 3. might have eaten. Adonizebech cut off the thombes of others, his thombes were cut off by another. judge. 1. 7. Ahab spared Benadah: his life was for him required of the Lord. 1 Kin 20. 42. Amnon hated Thamar his sister: he was hated of Absolom his brother. 2 Sam. 13. Absolom was of his hair proud this hair his death caused. 2 Sam. 18. Agag made childless women this mother was made childless of him. 1 Sam. 15. Achitophel gave evil counsel to Absolom his counsel was his destruction. 2 Sam. 17. Ammonites kept in bondage derided the Israelites they were after in bondage to derided by them jer. 49. 2. Ezek. 25. 2: denied to entertain the Israelites with bread and water, being temporal things: they were denied by the Israelites( is God commanded) Deut 23. 3. Neh 13. 11. to be partaker with them of spiritual things. Balaack seeking to curse Israel by Balaam, was cursed with his by Balaam. Num ●● &c Hos. 2 8. 1 Sam. 27. 2 Sam 13. Chap 14. Chap. 11 Ch. 16 1 Sam 2●. Luk 16. Esth 3. Chap. 7. chaldeans spoyled many Nations: they were spoyled again by Nations. David Subtiley deceived A●hish the King, he was deceived by a woman. David Caused Urijah to be made drunk, his son Amnon was drunk. David Caused Urijah to be slain: three of his sons were slain. David Deceived Abimelech by a lye: was deceived by Ziba by a lye. David Lay with Bathsheba secretly: Absolom with his Concubines openly. Dives denied crumbs on earth: he is denied drops in hell. Hamon got a Commission to put the Iewes to death: Esther got a Commission to put his son, to death: He likewise made a gallows to hang Mordecat on, was himself hanged upon. Herod purposed not to do as he said he would to the Wise-men: The Wise-men Mat. 2. 3, 4, &c. Gen. 25. Gen. 27. Gen 35. Ch. 27. Ch. 29. Ch. 28. Ch. 35 Ch. 41. Deut. 4. 2. Amos 5. 2●●●r. 30. 10. &c. returned not, as they said they would unto him. Isaac made a lie to Abimelech, saying, Rebecca was his sister, jacob made a lie to Isaa●, saying, he was Esau his brother. jacob Lay with Rahels maid unlawfully, his son Reuben opprobriously. jacob Deceived Esau his eldest brother, was deceived with L●ah the elder sister: abode ●0 years from Isaac: joseph so long from jacob Israelites and Jews In Israel following Idolatry; were constrained to it in captivity. Keeping in bondage their servants; were in bondage to other. Would not hear the Law of God; were not heard by God. Regarded not to know God; were not regarded to be known of God. Re●u●ed knowledge; they were destroyed for lack of knowledge. Zach. 7. 12. Hos. 4. 6. spilled o●h●rs blood without hiding; theirs were spilled without covering. Cast away the Statutes that were good; had Statutes that were not Rom. 1. 28. Ez. ●● good. Stung Moses with their tongue; were themselves with Serpents Nii. 21. Is. 24. 5 stung. Going after other gods a whoring; their wives, &c. became whores. Hos. 4. 13, 14, &c. Deceived the Lord of his praises; were deceived of the earthly increase. Moved the Lord to jealousy with that which was not good, and provoking him to anger with their vanities: The Lord moved them Deut. 32. 21. Rom. 10. 19. to j●alousie with those which were no people, and provoked them to anger with a foolish Nation. Dishonoured God in their prosperity, not regarding him, they were Lam. 1. 8. dishonoured by men in their captivity and affliction, despising them. ●shmaels ha●● was against every man; every mans hand was against him. Gen. 16. 12. Act. 2. 13. Ch. ●6 21 Deut. 21 23. Gal. 3. 13. let. 33. 1. Ioel 3. 0. Mat. 27. Isai 10. 1●. The Jews Mocking at Christ and the Apostles, are now derided by other. Going about to make Christ accursed, by hanging him on the three, are now themselves accursed with their ●eed by incredulity. The Jews Enemies took the children of Iudan and jerusalem, and sold them to Isa. 30, 1● the Grecians; Their children were sold again to the Israelites. Iudas sought Chr●sts death: he dyed on a three hanging himself. babel King deal● with the Iewes cruelly: the like was shewed to his posterity. The men Casting Shadrach into the furnace: were burnt with the flamme. Dan. 3. That marthered any were for the most part murdered again. Nalah and Abih● offered strange fire, they were consumed with fire. Lev. 10, 2. Exod ●. Chap. 12. Chap. 14. Mat. 26. joh. 28 17. Mar. 8. 32, 33. 1 Ki. 13. ●●z 3 Pharaoh slay the children of the Israelites: an angel slay the Egyptians: caused the children of the Israelites to be drowned: he and his were drowned Peter denied Christ three time● before he was constant in believing: Christ demanded Peter three times, Lovest thou me? before he gave credit to his saying: He rebuked Christ, and Christ rebuked him. The Priests that burnt intense on strange Altars, their bones were burnt on altars. The People that divided Israels desolation: others derided their destruction. jer 48. Luk. 15. 1 ●●n. 12. The Prod●gall consuming his estate prodigally; was punished with penury Rehohoam refusing the counsel of old-men; was prejudiced by counsel of young-men. R●ho●oam and his princes forsaking God; they were forsaken by the Lord. 2 Chron. 12. 5. Gen. 11. Exod. 1. Gen. 19. judge 15. 11, &c. 1 Sam. 15. shows sons became brick-burners to build Babel to get a name; their posterity were b●ick-burners to Pharaoh to their shane. The Sodomites burned in lust one with the other; they were burnt in fire together Samson burnt the corn of the Philistines; his wife was burnt by the Philistines. Samson did to the Philistines at other times, as they formerly had done to him. Saul Cast away the Word of the Lord; he was cast off from the Lord. Deceived the Witch by changing his apparel, he was deceived by the devil, changing himself into the shape of Samuel. Chap. 28, &c. Ezek. 16. 36, &c. josh. 3. 9. 1 Sam. 31. 2 King 19. Matth. 18. The Sodomites discovered their shane to th●se that they beastly loved: The Lord discovered their shane to those that they hated. Saul and ●onathan slay the Gibeonites with whom Ioshua had made a league before time; they were both of them slain by the Philistines. Sennacherib trusting in his god Nisroch: was slain by his son before him. The servant that shewed no mercy to his fellow, his master shewed none to him. The women of Israel abusing their sweet odours, girdle●, stomachers, hair, and beauty; the Lord in stead thereof gave them stinks and rents, baldness, girdles Isai. 3. of sackcloth, and burnings. The wicked in this world say to God, Go● from us, we desire not the knowledge of job 21. 14. Matth. 7. 23. thy ways: The Lord will say to them in the day of Judgement, Depart from me, I will none of ye. Satan tempted Christ forty dayes in his unglorisied body: Christ triumphed over Matth. 4. 1. Act 1. 3. Ephes. 4 8. Hos. 13. 1●. Wisd. 11. 13. jer. 15. 29. Lev. 24. job 34. 11. Satan forty dayes in his glorified body. Death and the devil rejoiced over Christ being in his grave after his Passion: Christ overcame them, and rejoiced over them by his Resurrection. Wherewith a man sinneth, by the same shall he be punished. As every person hath done, so shall it be done to him. Eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, &c. shall be given. God will render to every man according to his works. read Deut. 46. Chap. 7. 12. Chap. 11. 13. josh. 1. 8. 1 King. 14. 13. Eccl. 7. 27. job 3. 13. Chap. 16. 18. Chap. 20. 8. Chap. 31. 9. Prov. 1. 24. Chap. 5. 22. Chap. 8. 38. Chap. ●●. 5, 27. Chap. 13. 13, 22. Chap. 14. 14. Chap. 22. 16. Chap. 24. 12. Chap. 28 10. Isai. 3. 11. Chap. 8. 6. Chap. 22. 13. Chap. 30. 2. Chap. 49. 25. Chap. 50. 11. Chap. 52. 3 Chap. 59. 8. Chap. 66. 3. jer. 6. 19. Chap. 25. 6, 14. Chap. 30. 16. Chap. 50. 29. Chap 51. ●4. Ezek. 1●. 12. Chap. 18. 30. Chap. 25. 14. Chap. 35. 11. Chap. 30. 2. Chap. 39. 24. Hos. 4. 11. Oba●. 1. 15. Psal 9 5.& 37. 15.& 52. 4.& 62. 12. Matth. 10. 14. Chap 12. 35. Chap. 24. 48. John 15. 2 2 Cor. 11. 13. Chap. 1●. 6. Col. 3. 15. 2 Thes. 1. 6. Chap. 2. 9. Luke 12. 48. Gal. 5. 5. Rev. 2. 23. Chap. 18. 6. Chap. 20. 13. Rom. 2. 9. 2 Cor. 5. 10. Micah 1. 7. Wisd 11. 5. The Person that Addeth to the word of God; plagues shall be added unto him. Rev. 22. 18. Luke 9. 26. Gen. 23. 22. 2 Thes. 2. 11. Psal. 109. 7. job 15. 31. Psal. 69. 27. Isa●. 49. 25. Rom. 2. 1. 1 Sa● 2. 30. 2 T●●●. 3. 13. Isai. 33. 1. job 5. 13. Matth. 20. 4. 1 Cor. 3. 7. I●●. 30. 16. 1 Ch●on. 28. Mark 11. 26. Psal. 18. 26. Deut. 19. 16. Ez●l. 33. 6. Matth 7. 2. , Psal. 105. 17. jo● 31. 9. Prov. 19. 28. Prov. 22. 16. Prov. 26. 27. jer. 30. 16. Prov. 21. 13. Iam. 2. 13. Deut. 28. Prov. 22. ●3. H●b. 2. 8. Ashamed is of Christ on earth; Christ will be so of him in Heaven. Afflicted the children of God, the Lord will afflict him. believeth not the truth of God to be saved; shall believe lies, and be damned. Clotheth himself with cursing, cursing shall enter into him. Committeth iniquity, and ●●reth in vanity, it shall be added unto him. Contendeth with those that be godly, the Lord will contend with him. Condemneth another doing the same, shall be condemned in the same. Despiseth God, God will despise him: that deceiveth, shall be deceived. Dealeth treacherously with others, shall be so dealt withall. denieth mercy to the poor on earth, shall be denied mercy in Heaven. Destroyeth the Temple of God, him shall God destroy again. Devoureth the godly, and forsake God; God will devour and forsake. Forgiveth not injury; done unto him, shall not be forgiven. Frowardly carrieth himself towards God, God will do so to him. Falsely accuseth any; he shall be falsely accused by other. Hateth, shall be hated: that judgeth, shall be so judged. Killeth and murdereth others, shall be murdered by other. lieth wait for another mans wife; his wife shall grind to another. Mocketh at judgements, judgements are prepared for him. Oppresseth any making him poor: shall be brought to poverty. Roleth a ston, the ston shall return upon himself. Robbeth the godly: God will stirie up some to rob him. Stoppeth his ear at the poor, shall cry and not be heard. Sheweth no mercy: to him shall be condemnation merciless. Serveth not God with a good heart; shall serve his enemies. spoils the souls of others: God will spoil the soul of him. The Person that Sinneth without the Law; shall perish without the Law. Rom. 2. 12. Seeketh evil and vengeance, evil and vengeance sh●ll com● to him. Prov. 11. 27. Soweth sparing, to the flesh and wind; shall reap the same. 2 Cor. 9. 6. Gal. 6. 8. Scorneth others; shall be scorned by the Lord again. Prov. 3. 34. Shooteth his arrows to the godly; God shall shoot at him. Psal. 64. 4, 7. Troubleth a widow, &c. his wife shall be made a widow. Exod. T●st●f●●th▪ 22. 22 Deut. 15. 16, 19. Turneth his ear from hearing the Law, his prayers shall be abominable. Prov. ●9. 8. Worketh evil, shall be wrapped in evil not knowing whence it is. Ecclus. 27. Walketh stubbornly against God: God will walk so against him. Levit. 26. 23. Is unfaithful unto others: others shall be so unto him. Luke 16. 12. Thus every man is recompensed according to the work of his hands. Psal. 28. 4. Prov. 24. 12. Use. Whatsoever therefore ye would that men should do unto you, even so do ye unto Matth. 7. 12. them, saith Christ. Gods mercy Good with good rewarded. Abraham Shewed his love to God in offering up Isaac his son. Gen. 22. The Lord manifested his love to Abraham by sparing him. Ahimelech relieved David: His son A●iathar was relieved by David. 1 Sam. ●1. Abiathar suffered in affliction with David: His life was by Solomon saved. 1 King. 2. The Apostles Used their tongues to l●ud God: they were sanctified by God. Act. 2. ●. Loved Christ, they were beloved of God himself and Christ. joh. 16. 27. Suffered with Christ: they are now in blessedness with Christ. mat. 19. A●igail relieved Davids poverty: she was advanced by him to Regency. 1 Sam. 30. Barzillai shewed to David his amity. Salomon shewed kindness to Barzillai. 1 King. 2. The Centurion loved the Jews, and built a Synagogue for them: The Jews in love prayed Christ to heal the servant of the Centurion. Luk. 7. 4. Daniel expounds the dream of nabuchadnezzar: he promoted him to honour. Dan. 4. David Shewed mercy to an Egyptian: He discovered his enemies to him. Being relieved by many in his necessity, sent to them of his plenty. 1 Sam. 30. Ebedmelech shewed mercy to ieremy: The Lord shewed Ebedmelech mercy. jer. 38.& 39. Henoch walked on earth with God: He was taken up into Heaven by God. Gen. 5. job comforted many in their affliction: Th● Lord comforted him. Job 4.& 33. jonathan Shewed mercy to David: his son Mephibosheth had mercy from David. 1 Sam. ●0. Delivered the Israelites from the Philistines; was delivered by the Israelites. 2 Sam. 9. Saint John commended of Christ behind him: Christ did the like of S● John. joh. 1. 27. I●●. 29. ●. Mat. 11. 11. The Kenites shewed mercy to Israel: They found mercy at the hands of Saul. 1 Sam. 15. King Hiram and Queen of Sheba gave gifts to Salomon: they had the like of him. 1 Kin. 5.& 10. Just Lot enter●ained two Angels: He was delivered from sodom by them. Gen. 19. Moses shewed love to Iethro's daughter: he found love from her father. Exod. 1. Magda●ene gave Christ oil to anoint him: Christ gave her pardon of sin. Luke 7. The men employing the Talents delivered them: had more given them. Matth. ●5. Nahash comforted David in affliction: David sent to comfort his son. 1 Sam. 10. 1 Ch●on. 19. Obed-Edom entertained Gods Ark into his house: he was blessed with his house. 2 Sam. 6. Onesiphorus shewed mercy to Paul: Paul prayed God to show mercy to him. 2 Tim. 1. Publius entertained Paul: Publius his father was healed by him. Act. 27. The Philippians r●leeved Pauls necessity: The Lord gave them riches in glory. Phil. 4. 18. Paul shewed mercy in healing many: he had from them things necessary. Act. ●8. 9. Rahab preserved the spies of Ioshua: she was preserved by Ioshua. josh. 2.& 6. Ruth accompanied Naomi: Boaz married her, a man of authority. Ruth. 1.& 4▪ Shewed the men of Jabesh-Gilead kindness in delivering them 1 Sam. 11 Tongues, Act. 2. from Ammon. They shewed them kindness at their death by burying them. & 31. 11. And David promised to show mercy to the Gileadites again. 2 Sam. 2. 〈◇〉 Mat●. 25. The Shunamit● entertained Elisha▪ she obtained a child by his prayer being barren. 2 King. 4. The widow relieved Elijah: she had her meal and oil increased by him. 1 King. 17. The wise men gave Christ gold, frankincense, and myrrh; they had wisdom, Matth. 2. Devotion, and charity given. Zacheu● gave Christ temporal food: he had spiritual food given him. Luke 19. The person that Aboundeth in Christs sufferings: his consolation shall abound in Christ. 2 Cor. 1. 5. Abideth in Christ, keeping his words: let him ask it shall be given. job. 15. 7. Blesseth those that are Gods children: God will bless him. N●. 24. 9. Ex. 23. 22 Casteth his bread on the waters, shall find the same again. Eccles. ●1. 1. Casteth his care on the Lord: The Lord will care for him. 1 Pet. 5. 7. Confesseth Christ before men: Christ will confess him in Heaven. Luk. 12. 8. Doth righteously: God will render his righteousness to him. job 33. 26. Doth not evil: no evil shall at any time come near him. Ecclu●. 7 1. Draweth near unto God: God will draw near unto him. Iam. 4. 8. Exalteth wisdom: wisdom shall and will exalt him. Pro. ●. 8. Followeth righteousness and mercy: shall fine life and righteousness again. Pro. 21. 21. Forgiveth another: shall be himself by the Lord forgiven. Mat. 6. 14. Godly is and upright: the Lord will so show himself to him. Psa 18. 2● Gives to others: shall from the Lord have given again. Mat. 10. 42. Heareth. Honours God before man: the Lord will honour him again. 1 Sam. 2. 30. Honoureth his Father: shall receive honour from his children. aec 3. 6. Keepeth company with Wise-men: shall obtain wisdom. Prov. 13. 20. liberal is, shall have plenty: and that watereth shall have rain. Prov. 11. 5. Loveth wisdom, and Christ losing his life for him, shall find wisdom and Prov. 8. 17. Christ, with eternal life again. jo●. 14 21. Mat. 10 ●●. overcometh in keeping Gods Word: he shall have power to overcome. Rev. 3. 21. overcometh▪ Planted is to the similitude of Christs death: shall so be to his resurrection. Rom 6. 5. pitieth the poor: the Lord will restore what is laid out by him. Pro. 19. 17. Returneth unto the Lord: the Lord will return unto him. Ze●. 1. ●. Mal. 3. 7. Receiveth a prophet; shall receive the reward of a prophet. Mat. 10 41. Walketh. Seeketh after wisdom: the Lord and good things shall find. 2 Chro 15. 2. Soweth righteousness, and to to the spirit, sh●ll reap the same: Pro. 11. 17. Cap. 8. 17. ● C●r. 9. 6. Gal. ●. 8. The Lord will show himself merciful with the merciful; and with the upright Ps. 18. 25. man will show himself upright. Pro. 12. 14 The recompense of every mans hand shall be rendered unto him: for the Lord 2 Sam. 22. 21. will reward every one according to his righteousness, and according to the Ps. 18. 20, &c. cleanness of their hands doth he recompense them. Whatsoever a man soweth that shall he reap. Gal. 6. 7. Gen. ● 23, 24. Chap. 24. 18. Exod 1. 10. Chap 23. 22. josh. 1. 8. ●ev. 26. 4 D●ut. 7. 12. josh. 14. 14. 2 Sam. 22. 2 Kin. 10. 30. 1 Chro. ●8. 9. job 8. 5. Chap 22. 23 &c▪ Chap 21. 20 Chap. 33 25. Chap. 36. ●1. Prov. 2. ●. Chap. 3. 3, 8 Chap. 11 27. Chap. 13. 13, 22. Chap. 14. 22. Chap. 24. 12. Chap. 8 27 Isa. 1. 19 Chap 33. 15. Chap 57. 13 Chap. 58. 9, 10. jer. 7. 5. Chap 17. 10. Ioel 2. 12. Mal 3. 10. Psal 18. 20. Psal. ●2. 12. Psal. 90. 15. Wisd 6. 10 Mat. 5. 1. Chap. 6. 4 Chap. 10. 32. Chap. 3. 12. Chap 19. 28. Chap. 25. 34 Chap. 26▪ 13. joh. 1. 12. Rom. 27. 1 Cor. 1. 5. Chap. 5. 10▪ ● Cor 2. 10 2 Tim. 2. 11. Rev 2. 11, 17▪ Ioel 3. 4. Pro. 13. 21. Gods Justice sin punished in the place committed. In the same place where Angels, Iud. 6. Adam, Gen. 3. King Abimelech, Gen. 20. Aramites. 1 Ki. ●0. Ananias, Act. 5. Baals Prophets, ● Kin. 10. Bethshemites, Balaam. Numb. ●● Baalshazzar, Dan. 5 Cham, Gen 9. Two Captains with their fifti●s. 2 Ki●. 1. Children mocking, 2 Kin. 2. Elymas, Act 13. 11. Eu●icus sleeping. ●ts●0. Hamon, Esth. 7. Herod, Act. 12. Is●aelites, Num. 11. jezabel Queen. 2 King 9. jeroboam, 1 King 13. jehoiakim Ezek. 17. 6. Kain, Gen 4. Kora●. Num 16. Lots wi●e, Gen 19. miriae, Numb. 12. nabuchadnezzar, Dan 4. Ni●od. Gen 1●. Onan and Er, Gen. ●8. Pharaoh, Exo 4. Philistines, judge. 16. Prod●●all. Luk 15. Peter, Mar. 8. 32. Paul, Act. 9. Nadab, Lev. 10. Samaria prince 2 King. 7. Senecherib, 2 Kirg. 18. Solomon, 1 Kin. 11. Sodomites, Gen 19. Sam●son. judge. 16. Simon Magus, Act 8. The two hundred and fifty men, N●●b 16. Uzzab. 2 Sam. 6. Uzziah, 2 Chro 26. Scaevaes sons and Zachariah sin●ed; They were every Act. 19. 〈◇〉. 1. 20. ●●●. 25. ●. Ez●. 21. 32. one of them punished. Gods mercy Man comforted in the place he sorrowed. In the same place where Adam heard sentence of punishment: he heard a sentence of comfort, saying; Gen. 3. The seed of the woman shall break the head of the Serpent. Abraham was willed to sacrifice his son▪ he heard a voice from Heaven, saying; Gen. 22. I will bless thy seed as the stars of Heaven. The Apostles were imprisoned; they were by an angel, and God comforted. Act. 5. 17. Ch. 16. 26. Ch●p. 23. 11. David suffered under Saul: he was crwoned King over all. 2 Sam. 1. Psal. 30. 12. Daniel and joseph was for a time afflicted; they were honoured. Dan. 4. Gē. 41. Gen 21. 2 Chr. 18. Ch. 19. Ch. 20. Isa ●8. Gē. 32. 10. Iud 11. Gen. 41. 52. Re. 1. jer 49. 2. job 42. Ex 1. Ex. 12 〈◇〉 9. 15. ●●b. 8. 13. Esth. 3. Ch. 6. 2 Chr. 20 Paul Ruth 4. Act 7. Mat. 28. 16. Luk. 24. 15 joh. 16. 21. Psal. 30. 5. Psal. 126. jer. 31. 13. Isa. 61. 3. Hagar was in the wilderness with her son; the Lord comforted them. Hezekiah was by Senacherib threatened; Senacheribs host was destroyed, and being sick unto death, had fifteen years added to his life. Isaac confessed himself to be in poverty; he was made wealthy. jephtah was banished; he was made captain by th Elders o Gilead. John was exiled; He had heavenly mysteries, being ravished. job was by Satan tormented; he was at the last double blessed. The Israeli●es were most by Pharaoh vexed; the more they increased, and being sorrowful by bondage, were with joyfulnes delivered Mordecai was by Haman with the Jews disgraced, they were advanced. Iehoshapha● feared most the enemy; the Lord gave him the victory. Ruth in her poverty gleaned corn; she was made rich by her kinsman. Steven was stoned; he was comforted; seeing the Heavens opened. Christ was tempted, the Angels came to him and ministered, and from the Moun● Olivet going to his passion, he ascended to glory in Heaven. heaviness may endure for a night: but joy cometh in the morning. They that s●w in tears shall reap in joyfulness. The Lord will turn sorrow into gladness, and will give beauty in stead of ashes: Ioyfullnesse for sighing; and pleasantness for heaviness. Gods Justice sin of one punished in another. Children punished for the Sin of their Father. HOw can God in Justice punish the children for the Fathers fault? Seeing the Ob. Ezech. 18. 20. jer. 31. 29. Gal. 6. 3. Lord himself saith, The son shall not hear the iniquity of the Father. Man consisteth of a body, which we have from our Parents, and a soul Deut 4. 16. 2 King. 14. 6. Gal. 6. 5. which is given us immediately from God, both subject to corporal and temporal, spiritual and eternal punishments: Of which spiritual and eternal punishment, thou a●t to understand that of the Prophet( saying) The soul that sinneth shall die: The son shall not hear the iniquity of the Father: But for corporal and temporal punishments, God visiteth the iniquity of the father upon the children: And so God judged the house of Eli for ever, because his sons ran into a slander. And so the whole body of the people is punished for the sin of one 1 Kin. 2. 27. josh. 22. 20. Deut. 21. or many, unless the sin be satisfied. So God plagued the Israelites for the sin of Achan: and so threatened to do if any murderer escaped. 2. To this we may answer, as the Lord doth in Hosea, speaking to the Jews, he bids them pled with their mother, comparing himself to a husband, showing Hos. 2. 21. that there is no fault in him, but that all the blamelies on the adulterous mother. For as an husband may without any fault put away the wife that hath dealt treacherously, and her adulterous brood also, because they be none of his children▪ So may God justly plague and forsake both the Parents and the wicked children of w●●ked Parents. 3. T●● punishment is fulfiled on the wicked children, when the Lord withholdeth 〈◇〉 means of grace and the spirit of grace from them; as also in letting the children 〈◇〉 their fathers evil byways to imitate the same, as also in giving them up to blindness ●f mind, and hardness of heart, and such like, whereupon nothing else can be looked for, but that the children being forsaken of God should live most wickedly, and so move God to take vengeance upon them So the posterity of wicked Ahab, and also of Cham, hear the curse upon them, for the iniquity of their wicked fathers. 4. God dealeth herein, as man dealeth with the Serpent, who destroyeth both young and old, because they are enemies unto him, as also because he seeth they can do nothing else but evil. So the Lord cutteth off the children of the wicked, for that he seeth if he should suffer them to remain, they would be as bad as their fathers before him. 5. The will of God is just of itself, and that because it is his will which is most Rom. 9. 14. Chap. 11. 33. just, and the author and Rule of all Justice: who then art thou, O man, which pladest with God, whose ways are unsearchable? Sinned Adam In eating the forbidden fruit: All mankind suffered. Gen. 3. Gen 20. 1 King. 2●. 2 king. 12. 2 King. 16. 2 Chron. 28. 1 Sam. 21. Amos 7. 10. Josh. 7. ● King. 15. Chap. 12. 12. Gen. 9. Abimelech Taking Abrahams wife: All his kingdom was punished. Ahab, and jezebel Concerning Naboth: and all his posterity were cut off, with forty& two other, brethren unto Ahaziah the king. Ahaz And many of his subjects were slain by the Assyrian. Ahimelech In hearkening to David: and fourscore and five were slain. Amaziah Accusing Amos: and his wives, sons, and daughters suffered. Achan Taking the execrable things: and all his were stoned. Baasha And all his posterity, like Ieroboams, were destroyed. Cham Discovering his fahters nakedness: and his posterity was cursed. Certain Benjamites Abusing the Levits wife:& twenty five thousands were slain. judge. 19. 1 Sam. 6. Numb. 14. Matth. 27. 1 Sam. 5. Gen. 6. 2 Sam. 24. 2 Sam. 12. Dan. 6. Hos. 4. 6. Exod. 20. 5. Chap. 34 4. Numb. 14. 18. Deut. 5. 9. 2 Chron. 34. ●1. Numb. 14. 33. Is● 1. 14. 21. jer. 32. 18. L●m. 5. 7. job 17. 5. Ezek. 18. 2. Certain Bethshemits Looking into the Ark of God:& fifty thousand died of thē. Certain Israelites Murmuring against God: and six hundred thousand perished. Certain Jews Wishing Christs blood on them: and all became accursed. Certain Men Setting Gods Ark by Dagon▪& many of them were plagued. Certain People Of the old world: yet all save Noah dyed in the flood. David numbering the people; and seventy thousand were slain: and caused Uriahs death& the sword followed after him. Daniels Accus. And their wives and children were cast into the Lions den. The fathers And their iniquities were visited on their children. And the Lords wrath fell on their children. And a slaughter was prepared for their children. And their iniquities were rendered into the bosom of their children. And the eyes failed of their children. And the teeth were set on edge of their children. And Israel and Jerusalem was a reproach among men. Isai 43. Dan 9. judge. ●. 2 King. 5. 1 King. 2. 27. Gideon Making the Ephod; and his posterity was destroyed. Gebazi Taking Naamans gifts, and his posterity were leprous. ●●li the Priest And his sons▪& God took the priesthood from his posterity. Haman Seeking to cut off the Jews: and many suffered for his villainy. Esth. 7. 2 King. 10. 1 King 1●. 1 Ki. 2. 2 Sam. 3. 1 Sam. 14. jonah 1. Gen 21. Numb. 16. 22. Hezekiah showing his treasures: and his children went into captivity. 2 King. 9. 26. 2 Chro. 32. 25. jeroboam Setting up the golden calves▪& his posterity were destroyed. joab Killing Abner: and his blood was of his seed required. jonathan Tasting hony: and the Lord was with all Israel displeased. jonah Flying to Ta●shish: and all the mariners were toasted. Ishmael Deriding Isaac: and his mother was with him banished. konrah With his Confederates; and their wives& children perished. Kain murdering Abel; and all his posterity with the ●arth was cursed. Gen. 4. Deut. 4. 21. Psal. 106. 32. 2 Ki. 18. Gen. 19. jer. 14. 4. Isai. 43. 17. Micah 3. 11. Amos 6. 12. Jer. 6. 13. jer. 9. 10. Israelites And the Lord was with his faithful servant Moses displeased. Hos. 4. 6. 2 Chr. 34. 21. Num. 14. 13 Lam. 5. 7. Ezek. 18. 2. King Ashur And fourscore and five thousand of his were destroyed. Lots daughters Lying with their father: and their issue was accursed. Manasseb Filling Jerusalem with blood: and all his posterity suffered. The And jacob and Israel was reproached, and accursed. Magistrates They turned Judgement into gull, and the fruits of righteousness 1 Sam. 5. 6. into Hemlock: and the Lord threatened to bring a nation against the people, by whom they should be afflicted. Nimrod With his companies, and all languages were confounded. Gen. 11. Exo. 11. Hos. 4. 6 Gen. 12. Gen 49. Gen. 3. Gen. 34. judge. 15. Pharaoh In detaining the Israelites; and all his people were plagued. Pharaoh In taking Abrahams wife;& all his household was plagued. Reuben Lying with Iacobs Concubine; his posterity lost the dignity. Satan Using the Serpent: and all the serpents brood was cursed. Shechem Ravishing Dinah: and all the Shechemites were murdered. Samson Burning the Philistine● corn: his wife and father were burned. Saul Slaying the Gibeonites; and divers of his sons were hanged: 1 Sā. 13. 13.& 31 as also the whole land was with three yeares famine punished. 2 Sam. 21. Sinned Salomon Taking outlandish women, &c. And yet ten tribes were 1 King. 11. Chap. 12. jer. ●9. 32. Numb. 11.& 14. 28.& 32. 9. jer. 43. 27. 1 King. 24. rent from his posterity, and given to his adversary. Shemaiah Prophesying falsely▪ and the Lord visited all his posterity. Ten Spies Bringing up an evil report on the land of Canaan; and the Lord was wrath with all Israels children. Teachers Transgressingly;& the Princes of the Sanctuary were slain. Zedekiah And the wrath of the Lord was against all Jerusalem. mankind And yet all creatures were thereby punished: yea, and Christ himself, to make satisfaction for the same, suffered the shameful death of the cross; the just for the unjust, doing 1 Pet. 2. 22, 23. no sin, neither was there guile found in his mouth; who in his own body bare our sins, that we being dead to sin, should live unto righteousness, and being freed from death, should at the last be raised by him to eternal life. oppressors And the whole land was punished. Ez●k. 12. 19. jer. 14. 16. Prophets Prophesying falsely▪ and men, women, and children perished. The Lord saith If ye do wickedly, ye shall perish, both ye and the king. 1 S●●. 1●. 25. Levit. 20. 5.& 26 ●9 〈◇〉. 2● 3. I●r. 13. 14.& 32. ●●. I●●●. 5.& 2●●●. Exod. 3●. Luk. 11. 51. He will set his face against that man, and against his family that goeth a whoring after other gods: He will visit the iniquities of the father upon the children to the third& fourth generation of them that hat● him: He will lay up the sorrows of their fathers for them, Isai. ●5▪ 7. job 17. 5. and will measure their old work into their bosom. Use. Seeing God punisheth the child en the father sinning: This serves to rebuk those paren●s that by oppression, &c. go about to better the estate of their children, Dan. 9. 16. red Psal. 109. 14. thereby bringing Gods curse upon them. This should teach us to pray God not to impute the sins of our fathers unto Prov. 28. 2. sir. 10. ●. Dan. 9. 16. sir. 10. 8. us: So did Daniel, who confessed his own sins, the sins of the people, and the sins of their Ancestou●s. Gods Justice fear in Man a punishment for sin. fear is a time●ous apprehension of an evil to come, being nothing else but the betraying of the succours which reason offereth, and is two-fold: Godly and wicked: Godly, fearing to displease God. Wicked, fearing the punishment of God more then God in sinning. fear ag●in in the Godly is before Afflictions Wisd. 17. 11. come, and when they are come then their fear is p●st. fear in the wicked is not before afflictions come, but when they are come, then they fear too much: For impiety triumphe●h in prosp●ritie, and trembleth in adversity, but piety trembleth in prosperity, and triumpheth in adversity. There are five kinds of fear: 1. natural: Which is one of the affections of the Soul created by God, with which Adam was endowed in the state of innocency. 2. carnal: The object whereof is flesh, or at the least, that which flesh may Matth. 14. 26. Isai. 24. 13. 2 King. 17. 32. jer. 3●. 16. 1 joh. 4. 18. R●v. ●1. 18. do: as, fear not them that are able to kill, &c. 3. Ser●ile: The object whereof is the Judgement of God onely, and this is proper to the wicked, who fear Gods plagues only. 4. Filliall: That is proper to the Sons of God; they do not only fear his Jer. ●6. 18. Mar● 5. ●●. Act. 9. 31. Judgements, but love and fear him for his mercy. 5. diabolical: The devils know there is a God, therefore they fear and tremble, having received the sentence of condemnation. Iude 6. True fear breeds in us a marvelous humility, as we saw in jacob, who was much afraid of his brother Esau, and therefore coming towards him, bowed Gen. 33. 3. himself seven times unto him. It is very credulous: This again we see in jacob, for when one told him that his brother came against him so well furnished, he feared greatly, yet disputed not long in the matter. Gen. 32. True fear causeth diligence, this also we see in Iacobs Example, who was marvelous studious to salute his brother: disposing wisely of that he had, to prevent his brothers fury. fear hath painfulness:( saith St John) There is no fear in love: for perfect love casteth out fear: He then that feareth is not perfect in love. 1 John 4. 18. fear in the Godly. was afraid of Adam The voice of God: Abraham of Abimelech the king. Isai. 7. 1. A. Gen. 20. 11. D. 1. Sam. 21. ●2. D. 2 Sam. 3. 39. J Gē. 34. 30. Sam●el Saul 1 Sam. 16. 2. Job 3. ●5. Gen. 3. Chap. 1●. Exod. 34. ●●. o ●8. 1 Sam. 18. Dan. 7. 15. 1. Sam. 4. 1 Ki. 17. 2 King. 1. 2 K●●g. 16.& 19. judge 6& 13. M●● 16. Job 3. 25. Gen. 31. 2 Kin. 9. mat. 2. jo●. ●9. Hab. ● 16. Exod. 2. Gen. 18. Act. ●7. Matth. 14. 13. Aaron Moses, seeing his face to shine: Boaz of Ruth uncovering him. David Saul pursuing him: Daniel of visions shewed him. Eli The Philistine: Elijah of jezebel and Ahaziah the King. Elisha Iehorams Messenger: Hezekiah of king Ashur. Gideon An Angel; so was Manoah, Magdalene, and other. job Things that befell him: jacob of Esau his brother. Jeh●shapha● The Ammonites: joseph of king Herod and Archelau●. joseph The Jews: therefore came by night to beg Christs body. Habakkuk The voice of God: Moses of Pharaoh, therefore fled. Sarah The Lord, having laughed: therefore she denied. Paul shipwreck: Peter of the circumcised. Herod, hearing John was beheaded. The Apostles of other often-times feared. read Luk. 24. 37. Mat. 17. 6. Mar. 10. ●4 Luk. 9. 45. joh. 6. 19. Act. Psal. ●1. 14. Psal. 34. 4. ●26. Esth 3. 15. Exod. 14. 10.& 20. 18. Deut. 5. 5. Numb 14. 1. josh. 7. 5. jer. 42. 11. Act. 12. 10. Gen. 42. 28.& 43. 18. judge 7. 3. &c. Psa. 119. 19. Heb. 5. ●. sir. 2● 18. Exo. 34▪ 30. sir. ●. 12. Mat. 14. 26, 30. Act. 9. 6. job 22. 10. Isai. 13. 8. fear in the wicked. Abimelech was ●●raid of Abraham, Gen. 21. jeroboam was afraid of The people. 1 King▪ 1●. 2 Sam. 3. jer. 50. Gen. 4. Dan. 4. Dan. 4. 1 Sam. 25. 1 King. 1. 1 Sam. 18. 1 Sa. 28. Ch. ●7. 11. Adonijah was ●●raid of Salomon, 1 Ki. 1. Ishbosheth was afraid of Abner. Ahaz was ●●raid of King Aram, ● Kin. 16. ●. of Babel was afraid of Gods Word. Belshazz. was ●●raid of A hand-writing, Dan. 5. ●ain was afraid ofAl that feared him. Felix was ●●raid of Pauls preaching, Act ●4. Nebuchad. was afraid of His dream. the jailer was ●●raid of the earth quaking, Act 16 Nabal was afraid of Davids words. Gaal was ●●raid of The shadow of a mountain, 1 Captain was afraid of Elijah. Haman was ●●raid of Mordecai, Esth. 4.( judge. 6. S●ul was afraid of David. Herod was ●●raid of Christs nativity, Mat. 2. the witch was afraid of Saul. read josh. 5. 1. Chap. 10. 2. 1 Sam. 4. Nehem. 6. 16. 2 King. 10. jer. 9. ●●. jonah Prov. 29. 25. 1. 5. Matth. 14 5. Mark 6. 20. Matth. 27. 54. Matth. 28. 4. Luke 4. 36. Chap. 7 16. Act. 16. 36. Chap. 5. 5. ler. 10. 2. joh. 9. 2. There is no peace to the ungodly, saith the Lord. Isai. 48. 22. Prov. 10. 24. job 15. 21, ●4. Prov. 28. 1. Ec●l●s 22. 18. Psal. 53. 5. That which the wicked feareth shall come upon him, saith Salomon▪ A sound of fear is in the wickeds ears( saith job;) and they fly, when no man purseth them( s●ith the wise men▪) and they are as reeds set on high, that cannot abide the wind( saith the son of sirach,) their hearts being fearful with foolish imaginations, so that they cannot endure any fear, being afraid( as David Pr●. 1●. 11. Use. Psal 112. 7. Use. Prov. 1. 3●. mat. 10. 28. saith) where no fear is. Use. sanctify the Lord, and let him be your fear, and he shall be your Sanctuary: Consider ●●i. 8. 1●. ●●sh. 2. 9. D●●●. 2. 25. 1 jo●. 4. 18. Psal. ●. 6. Psal. 27. 3. it is the Lord that smiteth his enemies, giving courage to his: Be then resolved of his presence and providence; and be sure to keep a good Conscience Gods Justice Conscience accusing for sin. COnscience is a part of the underst●nding in all reasonable Creatures, d●t●r. mining of their particular actions either with them, or against them, excusing or accusing: excusing, in assuring man that his person stands righteous before God, Rom. 2. 15. making him to say with Hezekiah: Lord remember me, how I have walked before thee in Truth. Accusing for mans particular slips, as also for the wants that be in Isai. 38. 3. his good actions. Conscience is like the poised of a Clock, which being down, all motions cease, the wheels stir not, &c. but being wound up, all is set on going. So Conscience being down there is no noise, but being wound up by Gods Justice, all wheel●s work: The tongue confesseth: The eyes weep: The hands wring: The heart aches: and the voice cries: no part can be at ●ase, according to juvenal: Cur tamen hos evasisse putes, quos diri conscia facti; Mens habet attonitos,& surdo verbere coedit, Occultum quatienti animo terror flagellum? How deem'st thou them acquit, whom guilty mind of fact so foul doth fright, And scourge unseen doth beate with unheard blow their Hang-man restless Conscience biting so? Conscience accused Adam flying from God: and Ahab for Naboths vineyard. Gen. 3. 1 Kin. 21. 2 Sam. 1●▪ Chap▪ 24. Chap. 12. Ahithophel of his wicked counsel; and David of adultery and pride. The Gentiles having no law; doing the things by nature in the Law. Rom. 2. 15. Dan. 4. 5 2 King. 2●. Esth. ●. Hezekiah for showing his treasur●s: and Haman of evil to the Jews. Herod for John beheaded: and Iudas for Christ betrayed. Luke 19. jonah flying from God: and judah for incest committed. Mat. 27. I●●. 1. G●●. 36. job 40. 4. job hearing God: and Kaine having not rightly offered. Laban pursuing jacob: and Nabal for churlishnes to David. Gen. 4. Gen. ●1. ● Sam 29. The Lepers for their long tarrying in the camp of the Assyrians. 2 Kin. 7. John 8 9. Ez●a ●. M●●. ●●. ●●. The men accusing the adult●rous women, and that took strange women. patriarchs selling their brother: and of ingratitude Pharaohs Butler. Gen. 43. Chap. 4●. Saul sparing Agag: Shimei cursing David: the Jews that cried. 1 Sam. 1●. Simon Magus ●fter he had desired to buy the Holy Ghost. 2 Sam. 19. A wounded spirit no man can bear: A conscience touched doth fore-cast cru●ll Act. 3. ●7. Ch. 8. 24. things, an● is the accuser, witness, juror and judge; testifying against man, Prov. 28. 1. Wisd. 17. 11. Isai. 3. 9. sir. 14. 2. declaring his sins, though they lye hide in him. Use. seek then to get a good conscience, which is a continual feast: the Title of Prov. 18. 14. S. Bernard. Religion, the Temple of Solomon, the field of blessing, the garden of delight, the joy of Angels, the ark of the Covenant, the Kings Exchequer, the Court of God and mansion of the Holy Ghost. look then to yourselves what Conscience you have, 1 Pet. 3. 21. For Conscience will damn, and Conscience will save. Study then with Paul a good Conscience, in all things willing to live honestly. H●b. 13. 8. Act. ●1. 1. Ch●p. 24. 16. Gods Justice Godly men punished with wicked children. As a Punishment for sin Adam Had wicked Kaine, Gen. 4. Abraham a mocking Ishmael. Gen. 21. Aaron Had wicked Nadab and Abihu, who offered strange fire. Levit. 10. 1. Had wicked Ammon, who incestuously ravished his sister. 2 Sam. 13. David Had wicked Absolom, who stolen the hearts of the Israelites from 2 Sam. 15. him. Had wicked Adonijah, who exalted himself for to be King. 1 Kin. 1. Eli the Priest Had wicked Hophni and Phineas, who abused Gods ordinances. 1 Sam. 2. Hezekiah Had wicked Manasseh, who filled Jerusalem with blood. 2 Chro. 32. judah Had wicked ●r and Onan, who did wickedly before God. Gen. 38. jacob Had wicked Simeon and Levi, by whom the Shechemites were Gen. 34. slain. Had wicked Reuben, who lay with Bi●ha● his Concubine. Gen. 35. Isaac Had wicked Esau, who hated jacob for his blessing. Gen. 27. josiah Had wicked jehoash, who died evil in the sight of the Lord. 2 King. 23. jehoshaphat Had wicked jehoram, who slay his brethren with the sword. 2 Chro. 21. Just Lot▪ Had wicked Daughters, who making him drunk, lay ●with Gen. 19. him. Noah Had wicked Cham, who discovered the nakedness of him. Gen. 9. Samuel Had wicked Ioel and Abiah, who took bribe● of men. 1 Sam. 8. Solomon Had wicked Rehoboam, who provoked God with Idolatry. 1 King. 14. Prophets Had wicked Children, which mocked Elisha passing by. 2 King. 2. A wise son maketh a glad father: but a foolish son is a heaviness to his mother. Prov. 10. 1. Better it i● to die without children, then to leave behind him ungodly children. Eccu●. 16. 1. Gods Justice sin punished with Famine. There was a Famine in the daies of Adam for the sin of Adam, for that he had transgressed the Commandement Gen. 3. 17. of God: Cursed therefore is the ground( saith the Lord.) Kaine for the sin of Kaine, for that he murdered Abel: When thou tillest Gen. 4. 12. the ground, it shall not yield her strength. Abraham for the sin of The people; because they had forgotten the flood. Gen. 12. 10. Isaac for the sin of Ishmael: for his backsliding from the Lord. Gen. 26. jacob for the sin of The patriarchs partly, who sold their brother joseph, Gen. 42. and partl▪ for P●tiphers wives sin, who accused joseph. Ruth for the sin of The people: in that they forgot God and served Idols. Ruth 1. David for the sin of Saul: And that because he had slain the Gibeonites. 2 Sam. 21. Elias for the sin of Ahab and jezebel: who had slain Naboth. 1 Kings 18. Elisha for the sin of The Jews: transgressing Gods Laws. 2 Kings 6. Zedekiah for the sin of Zedekiah; breaking with Nebuchadnezar his Covenants. Lam. 4. 4. Glaudius for the sin of The Jews; putting to death Christ Jesus. Acts 11. 25. Gods service and worship prescribed. unsuccessful was the providence of Almighty God in ordering ●ll things that did appertain unto the Tabernacle of old; wherein there was not Exod. 39. 43. any particular thing done about it, but an express form was set down, and after what manner it was to be done. Now we have not a material ark or Table John 4. 24. Rom. 1. 13. 1 Cor. 10. 20. Phil▪ 3. 2. 1 Sam. 15. 22. Ezra 10 19. Mat. 15. 9. Isai. 19. 1●. Mat. 28. 20. 1 Cor. 11. 23. Chap. 14. 4. ( for those were but shadows of things to come) we have a form of hovering God, which is more excellent, with all things appertaining to his worship, which the Holy Ghost hath set down to be in spirit and truth. For that he that worshippeth God after an overthwart and unlawful manner, adoreth an idol. Therefore in the service of God, and in all things belonging to the worship of God, all things ought to be done according to his word, as Christ himself commanded, saying: Teach them to observe all things as I have commanded: speaking to his Apostles. And Saint Paul saith, That which I have received of the Lord, I have delivered. And again he saith, Let all things be done honestly, &c. Are there then no Ceremonies to bee used? Did they all die with Christ? No, some were typical, prefiguring Christ, those are dead: other some are of decency and order, those are not dead. Christ came not to dissolve order: men consist of bodies as well as souls, God must be served with both, now bodies cannot s●rve God without external rites. The Spouse of Christ cannot be without her borders and laces, on necessity there must be some outward observances; but thus qualified. They must be for number few and far from ostentation. They must be for signification plain and from They must be for observation simplo and farther from superstition. As the Lord commanded Noabs ark being a figure of the Church was in particular made. Gen. 6. Chap 7. The Temple was built according to the pattern given Solomon. 1 Chron. 28. The book of the Covenant was written by Moses in the Mount. Exodus 24. 7. The ark of the testimony: a figure of the Church was fashioned. Exodus 25. The altars, Aarons garments, and Sacrifices were finished. Exodus 28. Moses and joshuah put off their shoes in the presence of the Lord. Exo. 3. 5. Josh. 5. 1● Exod. 29. 1. The Priests were consecrated before they served before the Lord. D●●t. 1●. 21. All Sacrifices were to be without blemish that were offered to the Lord. Lev. 9. 9. No person uncircumcised or of the Priests having blemish were admitted. Deut. 23. The people were to be sanctified themselves before they came to the Lord. Exod. 19. 10. read Numb. 1. 51. Chap. 3. 38. Chap. 4. 15, 20. Chap. 18. 7. Now the Service of God is to fly evil, and to do good; which is done by grace received by Christs death, which was not given by the old law, albeit it commanded Isai. 1. 16. it. In Gods Service these Rules must be observed: In Gods Service there must be 1. Preparation: The heart must be prepared( saith job) and thy hands must 1 Sam. 12. 20. joh 11. 13. be lifted up to the Lord. 2. Peniten●ies Gods Word must be hide in thy heart; all wickedness must Psal. 119. 11. job 11. 14. be far removed from thee, and thy house. 3. Godly fear: To serve him, and to rejoice in him with reverence; not Psal. 2. 11. Hab. 3. 18. only in prosperity, but also in tribulations. 4. Precedencie● Thou must resort to God betimes, not caring for the morrow, job 8. 5. Matth. 6. 34. as Christ commanded. 5. Detestation Of all things that may draw us from his service, with a desire Deut. 13. Isai. 5●. 6. to fulfil all his Commandements. Also in Hearing of Gods Word there must be Before Hearing A Resolution To deny our affections, and a Preparation with humbleness 1 Cor. 3. 18. Deut. 13. 13. of heart to hear what is delivered. In Hearing Attention, special to the Word delivered, proving the Doctrine, Isai. 55. 3. Psal. 119. 113. with keeping that which is good and wholesome. After Hearing Meditation, And practise, in that we must not onely be hearers, Heb. 2. 1. Iam. 1. 21. but doers also. When thou interest into the house of the Lord, take heed to thy foot, and be more ready Eccles. 5. 1. to hear, then to give the sacrifice of fools, for they know not that they do evil. Gods Justice Will-worshippers punished NAdab and Abihu offered strange fire, they were consumed with fire. Levit. 10. 1. Gideon made an Ephod intending thereby to show himself thankful to God for his victory: it turned to the destruction of himself, and all his posterity. judge. 8. King Saul In the absence of Samuel offered a burnt-offering, thinking thereby to have pleased the Lord: his kingdom was taken from all his, and given unto David. 1 Sam. 13. Chap. 15. 2 Sam. 6. Uzzah Seeing the ark of the Lord shaken, in zeal put his hand to stay the same: he was strike suddenly dead, in that it was only lawful for the Levites to come near the same. Numb. 1. 51. 2 Chron. 26. King Uzziah Burning incense before the Lord was strike with leprosy, and so continued to the day of his death. jeroboam burnt incense, his hand that did it withered. 1 K. 12. 33. Ch. 13 1 Chron. 15. 2 King. 21. 1 Sam. 6. Numb. 16. Matth. 21. Deut. 12. 8. Numb. 1. 51. Chap. 3. 38. 1 Sam. 5. 1 Chron. 15. 12, 13. Deut. 12. 8. josh. 1. 7. Israelites for not seeking the Lord aright, were punished. Manasseh building Altars in Gods house, was carried into Babel. Bethshemites, for looking into the ark of God, were many slain. Corah and his confederates offering strange fire perished. The Jews selling and buying in Gods house were driven out by Christ. The men That came near the Tabernacle, or to the Priests office, contrary to that God commanded, were put to death. The men of Ashdod looking into the Ark of God were plagued. The Levites That sanctified not themselves to bring up the Ark of the Lord unto the place he had prepared, made a breach upon Israel. The Lord saith No man shall do what seemeth good in his own eyes, but accordingly as I have commanded, without adding or diminishing, &c. Tenths due to God from him to the Levites. THe Tenth of the seed of ground, of the fruit of the three, of bullocks, and of Levit. 27. Deut. 14. 22. Gen. 4. Cha. 14. Chap. ●8. Numb. 31. 42. 2 King. 4. Nehem. 1●. 12. 2 C 〈…〉 ●●. sheep, and of all that did go under the rod was holy to God. Abel and Cain offered an oblation: Abraham gave tithe to Melchizedek. jacob promised to give God tithe: Moses gave the tribute to the priests. Elisha had the first-fruits brought him: judah gave tithe of corn▪ The Jews, Scribes and Pharisees paid tithes of all that they possessed. Nehem. 10. 37. Matth. ●3. Gal. ●. 6. Let him that is taught in the word, saith Saint Paul, make him that taught him partaker of all his goods. read Deut. 14. 22. Chap. 12. 19. Exod. 22. 29. Ezek. 44. 1. Prov. 3. 9, 10. Luke 10. 7. Rom. 5. 27. 1 Cor. 9. 7, 13. Ecclus. 7. 3 1. Cha. 35. 8, 9. Numb. 18. 21, 24 Lev. 5. 15. Gods Justice Sacrilegious Persons punished. AChan taking of the things that were reserved to the Lord, was stoned to josh. 6. death with all his family, cattle, &c. King Asa taking out of the house of God, silver and gold, sending it to the Syrian 2 Chron. 28. for a present, it was his utter ruin. jehoash took of the hallowed things that the kings of Judah had dedicated to the 2 King. 12. Lord, and sent them to Hazael, he was in the end by his own servants slain, conspiring against him. Shishak took away the treasures of the Lord out of the house of God: He was 1 Ki. 14 jer. 25. Hag. 2. 14. afterwards with his posterity ruinated. Belshazzar carousing in the golden vessels of the Lord, saw a hand-writing, at Dan. 5. which his countenance was changed, his thoughts troubled, &c. He slain, and his kingdom taken. Ananias and Saphira keeping back part of the money made of their own possession, Act. 5. it being then holy to the Lord, they were both of them strike with sudden death by the Lord. The Gentiles carried into their Temples, gods, silver and gold, and pleasant Ioel 3. 5. things, for which many were the Judgements of God pronounced against them. The Person that did With-hold any thing dedicated to the Lord, and that by ignorance, he was Levit. 5. 15, 18. Levit. 22. 14. therefore to bring a Trespasse-offering. eat of any holy thing unwittingly, he was to add a sift part more thereunto for his simplicity. Change, redeem, or go about to redeem any thing dedicated to God, were Lev. ●7. 10, 33. Ezek. 48. 14. it good or bad, both that he changed, and that was changed withall, were not be redeemed. Keep back any thing of tithes that were due unto the Lord, and so to the Levite, that person was accounted and called by the Lord a thief and a robber, Mal. 3. 8. and was cursed with a curse that took hold of him and his. The Censers Of those Sinners, that sinned against their own souls, albeit they Numb. 16. 16. were abused to idolatry, were commanded by the Lord to be read Ezek. 44. 10. made to plates for the Altars covering. The Israelites For suffering the Lords house to be waste, sowed much, and had little, drank but were not filled. Hag. 1. Chap 2. The Israelites For not paying their tithes, were smitten with blastings, whereas Hag. ●. 1●. 2 Chro. 31. 10. Mal. 3. 10. when they had repaired the Temple, they were blessed; and paying their tithes, the Lord poured out blessings on them without measure, rebuking the devourer for their sakes. It is a destruction for a man to devour that which is sanctified. Prov. 20. 25. Prov. 3. 9, 10. Honour therefore the Lord with thy riches, and with the first-fruits of all things, so shall thy barns be filled, and thy presses shall burst with wine. A Catalogue of gifts given by Godly persons to holy Uses. THe Israelites brought of free gifts for the work of the Tabernacle ear-rings, rings, bracelets, Jewels of gold, blew silk, and purple, &c. And the rulers offered Omx stones, and stones for the Ephod, &c. All which they brought willingly, Exod. 35. 12. offering it unto the Lord, and that in such abundance, as that they brought too much, yea, more then enough, so that Moses was forced to proclaim throughout all the host▪ that neither man or woman should prepare any Exod. 36. 5. more for the oblation of the Sanctuary. Women did spin with their hands, and brought that which they had spun both of blue and purple▪ &c. willingly offering it. Exod. 38. The Israelites Offered towards the making of the Tabernacle 29. talents of Exod. 38. gold, and 730▪ shekels in gold, after the shekle of the Sanctuary, and 100 talents and 760. shekels of silver. The Princes offered at the setting up of the Tabernacle many gifts. Numb. 7. Numb. 32. Captains brought of all their spoils that they had taken. David dedicated to the Lord of all that he took from his enemies, gave towards 2 C●ron. 29. the building of the Temple 3000 talents of gold of Ophir, and 7000 talents of refined silver, besides brass, iron and precious stones. Princes and Captaines gave towards the building of the Temple 5000 talents and 1 Chron. 29. 6. 10000 drams of gold, 10000 talents of silver, 18000 talents of brass; and an 100000 talents of iron, besides precious stones. Hiram an Heathen King, gave Salomon towards the building of the Temple, 1 King. 5. Cedar-trees and Fir-trees, and that in abundance to the hearts desire of Salomon Hezekiah commanded all the people that dwelled in Jerusalem to give part to the 2 King. 31. 4. Priests and Levites of all that they had, that thereby they might be encouraged in the Law of the Lord, to which they willingly consented. Cyrus Darius Artaxerxes Heathen Kings restored to the Jews the holy vessels that were taken Ezra 1. Chap 5. 14. Chap. 6 Chap. 7. Chap. 12. Nehem. &c 2 Ki 12. Ch. 22. Ezr. 1. 6. 8. by nabuchadnezzar, commanding other people to help them to build again the Temple: As also to set them at liberty, and gave them of wheat, oil and other things in abundance. Iehoaz and godly josiah made provision for the Temple. The Jews returning from Captivity, gave towards the new erecting of the Temple, threescore and one thousand drams of gold: five thousand pieces of silver, and an hundred Priests garments: their gold and silver in our account was four thousand four hundred ninety three pounds six shillings and eight pence. The Elders of Israel Gave towards the erecting of the said Temple a thousand drams of gold, 56 basins, 536 Priests garments, 20000 drams of gold, with N●h 7. 70. 2200 pieces of silver Salomon offered a thousand burnt-Offering at Gibeon, and two and twenty thousand 1 King. 3 4. 2 Chron. 7. 2 Chron. 30. bullocks, and one hundred and twenty thousand bullocks, and one hundred and twenty thousand sheep for a Sacrifice to God. Hezekiah offered an oblation of a thousand bullocks and seven thousand sheep. Mal. 1. 14. Use. This should teach us to follow the counsel of the Wise-man,( saying) In all sir. 34. 8, 9. thy gifts show a joyful countenance, and dedicate thy Tithes with gladness, according as the Lord hath enriched thee, and look what thy hand is able to give, give with a cheerful eye, for the Lord recompenseth, and will give thee seven times as much: Diminish nothing of thy Offering, for if thou do, he will not receive it: abstain from wrongful sacrifices, for the Lord is the judge and regardeth no mans person. The willingness of these people in building and repairing the Lords house, as also in rendering to the Lord his tithes, do condemn many in these our dayes, that seyle their own houses, and let the Lords house be waste, yea that do ruinated the same, and with the spoils thereof do build themselves goodly houses, not at all regarding to pay any tithes due to the Lord: Fight the Lords battle they may that will, that which other left to the Church a number take away: Such Sauls are many, few Pauls, many Hornets, few Bees, much gull and aloes, few honey combs, nay scarce a poor Hive left for many to put their heads in. A fearful example was the judgement of God on those that ruinated the house of God, not rendering their deuce to the Lord. How then shall even the proud Pharisees condemn many in these our dayes, who paid tithes of all that they had, not a pot-herbe, but they tithed it: Sacrilegious Patrons, the merchants of souls, the pirates of the Church, and enemies of Religion, they tithed all, you nothing; they paid the Levites, the Levites must pay you. Your cures must be purchased, your tithes abated, or compounded for. Your Fathers clothed the Church, you despoil it, their ignorant devotion shall rise in judgement against your ravenous covetousness: Yea king Pharaoh, who provided for his Priests shall condemn many of you: The Lord open your eyes to see your miseries. Gods Justice Idolaters punished. Idolarry spiritual Idolatry is both spiritual and corporal. 1. Is inwardly to conceive of God in the likeness of any thing created, directing his worship to the likeness. Act. 17. 29. 2. Is committed of those, who directly or indirectly have society Lev. 19. 31. Deut. 18. 10, 11 with the devil, trusting in him as Sorcerers. 3. Is committed of those who maintain any erroneous opinion concerning the worship of God, or against the word of God, that do cherish and defend any 'vice, by a displayed banner against 1 Sam. 15. 23. God, as King Saul did. And Idolatry corporal 1. Is to make an image to resemble God by it, as also to Deut. 4. 12. Isai 40. 18. Hos. 3. 12. Exod. 23. 13. 1 Cor. 10. ●1. Exod. 34. 15. psal. 116. 18. G●l. 4. 6. Exod. ●2. H●s. 2. 16. use any gesture or reverence to the images, or to mention the name of Idols by the way of swearing. 2. Is to be present at the feasts, and at the services of the Idols, at Masses, &c. being forbidden. 3. Is to worship the image of God or God in the Image. In a word: Idolatry is the worshipping of any false god, as also the worshipping of the true God falsely. Ahaziah seeking to other gods, being sick, dyed in his sickness. Abraham 1 Cor. 12. ●. 2 King. 1. 2 Chron. 25. judge. 18. 1 King. 16. ● King. 1●. judge. 8. 2 Chron 21. 1 King. 12. 33. 1 Kin. 13. Chap. 14. Amaziah setting up the gods of the children of Seir, dyed by enemies. The Danites erecting Michaes image, were after carried in captivity. Baashaes house was made like Ierob●ams, with all his posterity. Baals Prophets were slain, being 450. Gideon making an Ephod, it became his and his housholds ruin. jehoram dyed with a disease, his guts falling out within him. jeroboam setting up two Calves, the Lord cut off all his posterity, not leaving one to piss against the wall: Doggs did eat those that dyed in the city: and fowls such as dyed in the fields of all that were of his seed. Through Idolatry The Israelites Erecting the golden calf, three thousand were slain, and Exod. 32. judge. 2. ● K. 17. 7. 2 Chr. 28. 6 Ro. 1. 2● Numb. 25. 1 Cor. 10 7. jer. 16. 1. &c. Chap. 15. 1 King. 15. Dan. 4. ● 1 King. 12. worshipping of other gods, they were delivered into the hands of spoilers, given up by God unto vile affections, so that their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature, and the men the natural use of women, &c. were slain at one time in one plague 24000. And at last carried away captives by their enemies. Maachab making an idol, was put down from being Queen. nabuchadnezzar erecting an Image, was turned out from being King. Solomon had ten tribes rent from his son of his kingdom. Note: The proud The covetous The voluptuous man makes Honour his gold his belly his god: His idol is as it were in the air. Earth. Water. The Philistines Attributing Samsons delivery into their hands to their gods, three thousand by the fall of an house were slain judge 16. of them. Senecherib worshipping his god Nishroch, was by his own sons slain. 2 king. 19. These Kings Ahab, Ahaz, Elah, Hoshea, Nadab, jehojakim, Zedekiah, and 1 King. &c. Manassth were some made captives, other slain. 2 King &c. The Lord Would not hear the prayer of Moses for the Israelites, and commanded Exod. 32. manded jeremy not to pray or give thanks for them, but said jer. 7. 16. that in the day of his visitation he would visit their sins on Psal. 16. 4. them. The person That enticeth any to serve other gods, shall be slain by the person so Deut. 13. 6. enticed: and that offereth unto any strange gods, shall be stoned to Exod. 22. 20. death; and that serves graved images, and that glories in images Psal. 97 7, 12. shall be confounded, and that worshippeth unknown gods, shall Dan. 4. 26. perish from the land, saith the Lord. The man That offers to another god, his sorrows shall bee multiplied. Psal. 16. 4. That is an Idolater, shall not enter into the kingdom of God. 1 Cor. 6. 9. The persons that make Idols are vanity, and their delectable Isai. 44. 9. things shall nothing profit: They are their own witnesses jer. 10 15. that they see not, nor know, that they are profitable for nothing, being but vanities, and the work of errors, therefore jer. 45. 16. Deut. 27. they shall be confounded together with all that are of the fellowship thereof and cursed. The Lord saith Before me there was no god formed, neither shall there be after me: I Isai. 13. 10. even I am the Lord, Thou shalt have no other gods but me. Exod 20. 27. My glory will I not give to another, nor my praise to graved Images. Isai. 4●. 8. I have sworn by myself, the word is gone out of my mouth in righteousness, and shall not return, that every knee shall bow to me, and all judges shall swear by my name, saying, the Lord is my Isai. 45. 23. righteousness. The Lord spake to you( meaning the Israelites) out of the fire and Deut 4. 12. 15, 16. ye heard his voice, but saw no similitude, graved Images, therefore shalt thou burn, and not covet the gold and silver that Deut 7. 24. is upon them. Prophets say, Abraham is ignorant of us, and Israel knoweth us not; the Lord is Isai. 63. 16. jer. 10. 8. only our Father and Redeemer, God is a living God, all other shall perish. Saint Paul saith For as much as we are the generation of God, we ought not to Act. 17. 29. think that the God-head is like unto gold, or silver, or ston, Isai. 41. 29 graved by Art, and by the invention of man. Use. 1. learn by the example of Hezekiah, who took away the high places, broke 2 Ki. 18. 4. &c. the images, and broke in pieces the brazen serpent erected by Moses, abused by the Israelites. 2. Do as Iaco● did, commanding all his household to put away their strange gods. Gen. 35. 2. josh. 24. 15. 3. do with Ioshua, who not only commanded the Israelites to put away all the idols that their fathers worshipped, but vowed that he and his would serve the Lord. read Isai. 40 ●●8. Cha. 41. 24 Chap. 46. 6. Chap. 42. 17. Deut. 13. 12. Chap. 27. 15. Wisd. 14. 11. josh. 23. 7. 1 joh. 5. 21. Deut. 12. 30. Chap. 7. 5. Levit. 20. 30. Psal. 115. 4. Wisd. 13. 11, &c. Chap. 14. 10, &c. Deut. 17. 5. Exod. 23. 32. Cha. 34. 17. jer. 14. 11. Micah 1. 7. Numb. 33. 52. Deut. 7. 25. jer. 10. 5, 15. Isai. 40. 25. Wisd. 13. 1, &c. Gods Justice Sabbath-breakers punished. GOd commanded the seventh day to be kept holy; we observe not that day, Exod. 20. but keep the first day of the week. The Lord commanded a seventh day to be kept holy, not the seventh day next ensuing the sixth day: The sun stood still a day in enemy's time, and went josh. 10. 12. 1 Kin. 20. back ten degrees in Ahaz dial: Then the Jews themselves could not keep their Sabbath upon that prec●ise and just distinction of the time, called at the first the seventh day from the Creation. Old things, saith the Apostle, are passed away, all 2 Cor. 5. 17. Rev. 21. 5. things are become new. He that will be in Christ must be a new Creature. There is New Knowledge, Col. 3. 10. 1 Pet. 2. 10. John 13. 34. Heb. 10. 20. New People, New ●ommandement, New Way, New Wine, Luke 5. 36, 37. &c. New Garment, New vessel, New Man, All things are become n●w. Ephes. 4. Matth. 26. 28. Rev. 2. 17. Rev. 4. 9. Rev. 21. 5.& 3. 1●. ● Pet. 3. 13. New Testament, All things are become n●w. New Names, All things are become n●w. New Song, All things are become n●w. New Jerusalem, All things are become n●w. New Heaven, All things are become n●w. New Earth. All things are become n●w. And therefore of necessity there must be in stead of the old a new Sabbath, and day of rest for the people of the Lord, according to Pauls saying, There remaineth a rest to the people of God. Heb. 4. 9. On this Day On our Lords Day The Lord brought forth the light of the world in Creation. Gen. 1. Matth. 28. Gen. 8. Gen. 17. Exod. 12. Exo. 19.& 20. Exod. 30. Exod. 40. Levit. 9. Levit. 9. 24. Numb. 16. Numb. 17. 1. Luk. 24. joh. 2. ●. John 20. 19. Act. 1. 3. Matth. 27. Act. 2. Act. 2.& 20. 7. 1 Cor. 6. 2. Rev. 1. 10. Christ brought forth the light of the Gospel by his Resurrection. Noahs ark restend on the mountain of Ararat after the flood. Circumcision was by the Lord unto Abraham first ordained, The Israelites were from the bondage of the Egyptians delivered. The Law was first given to the Israelits on the Mount by God. The Cloud of Gods majesty on the children of Israel first restend. The Tabernacle with all his appurtenances was by the Israelites reared. Aaron, and his children executed first their Priest-hood. Fire first from heaven consuming the Israelites sacrifices descended. The Isra●lites were first solemnly by the Lord himself blessed. The Princes of Israel first publicly unto the Lord offered. Christ Shewed his first miracle in Cana of Galilee: Rose from death: and appeared to his disciples after his Resurrection, showing them things to come. Saints that slept arose out of their graves, appearing. The Holy Ghost came down upon the Apostles, together praying. The Apostles usually among the people assembled, used Preaching. The people laid up for the poor, as the Lord had prospered them. Saint John being in the Isle Pathmos had a Revelation. All sh●dowing that it should be the first and chiefest holiday of the new Testament that should be kept holy by all Christians to the Lord, and to his Son Christ. The Jews kept their Sabbath in remembrance of the worlds Creation. Christians celebrate the Sabbath in remembrance of the worlds Redemption. They as a figure of Grace when they should rest from servitude of sin. Wee as a figure of Glory when wee shall rest from occasions of sinning. They had bodily sacrifices of beasts: we spiritual Sacrifices of Prayer. Heb. 7. 12. Heb. 10. 8. They the levitical Priesthood of the law: we Christian ministery of the Gospel. They Jewish Temples and Synagogues: we Christian Churches. They Sacraments of Circumcision, Passeover: we of baptism,& the Lords Supper. They the Jews Sabbath so called; we the same into the Lords day changed. Rev. 1. 10. The Heathens called this day Dies Slou, as dedicated tooth Sun: we from the Resurrection call Sunday as dedicated to the Service of God; which said day was constituted by the Apostles( author against whom no except on can be taken) and so celebrated by Christians to this day. Concerning the alteration whereof the Prophet Hosea might seem to speak( when he saith) I will cause Hos. 2. 11. the Sabbath and Feasts to cease. Now to keep holy a Sabbath to the Lord is to celebrate an holy rest unto God, not only abstaining from all labour of the body, but also practising all godly Exercises, as Prayer, Hearing the Word, receiving the Sacrament, &c. And to profane the same, is to labour in servile works of our ordinary callings, to travel about ordinary business, to keep fairs and Markets on that day, to use sports and recreations, or any thing else more then things of necessity. By profanation The man that gathered sticks on that day was stoned. Numb. 15. Ezek. 22. Ezek 20. Ezek. 23. Ne●. 13. 17, 18. The Priests neglecting GOds service on that day were plagued. The Israelites profaning the Sabbath were not suffered to enter into the land of promise, but died in the wilderness: they were delivered into the hands of their enemies being heathen nations, who stoned them, and slay them with their sons abd daughters with utter destruction. The person that defileth and worketh on the Sabbath shall be cut off. Exod. 31. 14. Chap. 35. 2. Prophaners Cause the Lord to kindle a fi●e in the gates of the city: yea, such as shall devour the palaces, and shall not be quenched. jer. 17. 27. read Mark 6. 2. Luke 4. 16. Act. 13. 14. Chap. 16. 13. Chap. 18. 4. Exod. 12. 16. Chap. 23. 12. Chap. ●1. 13, 14. N●●em. 10. 31. Exod. 35, 3. The Lord God 1. Blessed the seventh day, restend on it, and sanctified it, commanding the Gē. 2. 3.& 20. 11 Exod. 34. 21. Chap. 12. 16. Chap. 35. 3. Chap. 16. 25. Numb. 28. 9. Israelites to rest on the said day both in earing-time and Harvest, and that they should do no work save only about that which every man must eat. 2. He commanded that they should kindle no fire on that day, forbade them to gather Manna thereon, willed them on the contrary to offer double unto him on that day what they did on any other in their sacrifices, oblations. &c. 3. He promised that if they would sanctify the Sabbath, they should have Levit. 26. 2, 3, &c. Isai. 56 2. Chap 58. 13. jer. 17. 21. rain in due season, the land should yield her increase, and that they should be blessed in all their l●bours: And further that if they did bear no burd●ns on that day, ●or bring it in by the gates, &c. but did sanctify the same, that then their Prince should sit on his throne, and the city Jerusalem should continue for ever among them. 4. He promised the Eunuch that sanctified his Sabbath a place, and a name, Isai. 56. 5. even an everlasting name that should not be put out. 5. He promised that person that kept his Sabbath, calling it the pleasant, holy, and glorious Sabbath of the Lord, giving him the honour, not doing after his own imagination, to bring him to his holy hill to make him Isa. 58. 13. &c. joyful in the house of Prayer, and to accept his offering. Use. 1. Let all Magistrates take Example by godly Nehemia●, who protested against those that carried burdens on the Sabbath day: reproving the rulers for suffering wears to be sold on that day, commanding the gates to be shut, and set servants to Nehem. 13. see that none should carry burdens on that day; As also protested to lay hands on the Chapmen that stayed all night without the walls of the city, whereupon they came not again to buy and sell as usually they had done. 2. Seeing God hath promised so many blessing to those that sanctify the same, let it move us not onely to remember to keep holy the Sabbath day, as God hath commanded, but also to keep it holy, as he hath willed, &c. Gods Justice Swearers punished. SWearing is not onely when the Name of God is sworn by, but also when in common and ordinary talk men fill up their sentences with needless oaths, as to swear by the cross, mass, &c. Swearing is both Godly, and Ungodly. Godly When men are called by Magistrates to depose the truth; or in a private Exod. 12. 11. H●b. 6. 16. cause between party and party, and that for the ending of contentions and debates, &c. And Wicked When men swear upon every light occasion, and in their daily talk, Matth. 5. 34. Hos. 4. 2. and that without truth, and this sin is so great that the Prophet ranks it before lying, killing, adultery and stealing, as the capital sin of all of them. The man that blasphemed the Name of the Lord was stoned to death. Lev. 24. 16.& 5. 1. Zech. 5. 3, 4, &c. Shall be cut off( saith the Lord,) the curse is gone forth, and it shall enter into the house of him that falsely sweareth, and shall remain in his house, and shall consume it with the timber and stones thereof. Swearers And they Cause the land to mourn, and every one that dwelleth therein to be Hos. 4. 3. Ie●. 23. 10, &c. Chap. 5. 7. cut off, with the beasts of the field, and with the fowls of Heaven: As also they cause the fish to be taken away in the sea, and the pleasant places in the wilderness to be dried up. The man That useth much swearing shall be filled with wickedness, and the Israelites, jer. 5. 2, 7.& 8. 14. plague shall never go from his house, when he shall offend, his fault shall be upon him, and if he swear in vain, he shall not be Ecclus. 13. 11. found righteous: his house shall be full of plagues. God saith, Thou shalt not take the Name of the Lord in vain: thou shalt not Exod. 20. Lev. 19. 12. defile his Name: for he will not hold him guiltless that taketh his Name in vain▪ Christ saith, swear not at all, &c. but let your communication be yea, yea, and mat. 5. 34. joh. 5. 34. Matth. 12. 36. Iam. 5. 12. nay, n●y, for what i● else proceedeth of sin. Saint james willeth men ●bove all things not to swear for fear of condemnation. Use. It should teach u●( as the wise man saith) not to accustom ourselves to swearing, sir. 23. 13. for that in it ●●ere are many fals: neither to take for custom the Name of Ecclus. 23. 9, 10. the holy one, for we shall not be unpunished for such things. read jer. 5. 2, 7. Amos 8. 14. Gods Justice Covenant-breakers and vows broken punished. vows are ●o be used between God and man on special occasions, when either 2 Sam. 3. 35. David. to strengthen ourselves against some sin, or the better to perform some duty, we bind our Consciences to avoid all occasions that may draw us to the one, and use all good means, that may further us to the other. These things are to be considered before Vowing: 1. To vow that which is lawful. 2. Not to vow that which is contrary to our Vocation. 3. vows must be of that which we can do. 4. They must be far from so much as a conceit of merit, or worship of God. 5. It must be to Gods glory: and lastly, the event is to be considered, for the Vow being made, it will be in vain to pled before God it was mistaken of thee. Having vowed defer not to pay it, but be sure to perform it, yet so as they encroach not upon the liberty of Conscience which Christ hath given us, and therefore look how the probable causes thereof do remain, or are taken away, so accordingly stands our liberty in keeping of a vow. King Saul Vowed That no person should taste of any food till he were avenged of his enemies: jonathan his son not hearing the vow made, finding hony 1 Sam. 14. did ●aste thereof, for which the Lord was displeased with all Israel. Jews Vowed That they would set at liberty their servants, they performed not the same, for which the Lord sent among them the Sword, Pestilence, jer. 34. 11. and Famine. Samson Vowed To perform the vow of a Nazarite: by showing Delilah where his strength lay, he broke the same, for which he lost his hair, eyes, Numb. 6. 5. judge. 16. strength and life. Ioshua Made a Covenant with The Gibeonites that they should have peace among the Israelites: Saul slay some of them, for which the Philistines josh. 9. 3. 1 Sam. 13. 2 Sam. 21. 2 Sam. 3. 13. prevailed against him, slay his sons, &c. And seven of his sons at the Gibeonites request were hanged, and all the land was three years with famine punished. Israel Made a Covenant with The Lord, swearing falsely, they were by him plagued. Hos. 10. 4. Ezek. 17. 16. 2 K●ng. 14. judge. 9. ● 〈◇〉 2. ●●. ●z●k. 17. 15. P●i●sts, Mal 2. 8. 2 Chron. 38. jehoiakim Made a Covenant with Babel king: he broke the same, and was slain. Shechemites Made a Covenant with Abimelech: they broke the same, and were slain. Shimei Made a Covenant with Salomon: that lost him life for not performing the same. Zed●kiah Made a Covenant with nabuchadnezzar: and broke the same, he lost his eyes, his sons slain. Covenant-breakers are ranked by Saint Paul among capital sins. Rom. 1. 31. Psal. 55. 20. Covenants and vows made and performed. jacob Performed the vow made To the Lord that he should be his God, and that he would give him Tithe of all that he had, if God gave him Gen. 28. bread, &c. jephthah Performed the vow made To the Lord: in offering up his daughter, as he had said. judge. 11. Numb. 21. 2. Israel Performed the vow made To the Lord: destroying the Canaanites, as they had vowed. jonah Performed the vow made To the Lord in sacrificing; with the mariners being delivered. jonah 1.& 2. josiah Performed the vow made To the Lord: that he would walk in the ways of the Lord. 2 King. 23. 1 Sam. 1. Psa 32. 2.& 116▪ 14. 1 Sam. 18. 2 Sam. 1●. Hannah Performed the vow made To the Lord: by dedicating her son Samuel unto him. Performed the vow made To the Lord: by providing a habitation for God to dwell in. David Performed the vow made To jonathan; by entertaining M●phibosheth his son. To Performed the vow made To Shimei● that he should not die by his hand for cursing him. Ioshua spies Performed the vow made To Raha●: by saving her when Jericho was destroyed. josh 6. Psal. 15. Deut. 23. 21. He that sweareth to his neighbour, and disapp●inteth him not, though it be to his own hindrance, shall dwell in the heavens. Gods Covenant made with Man. God Made a Covenant with Noah, that the waters should not destroy all things again. Gen. 15. Chap. 17. 11. Deut. 29. God Made a Covenant with Abraham That he would give his posterity the promised land. God Made a Covenant with Abraham That he would multiply him and be his God: and gave him Circumcision as a Covenant to be kept by him. God Made a Covenant with The Israelite● 1. Concerning the laws they were to keep. 2. That Exo. 24. 8.& 34 Heb. 9. 10. 1 Pet. 1. 2. Exo. 31.& 34. jer. 31.& 32. Numb. 25. 12. 2 Sam. 23. Isai. 59. 21. they should sanctify the Sabbath. 3. That he would cast out the Canaanites. And lastly, that he would Hag. 2. 5. put his law in their inward parts, so that he would not leave them, unless they forsook him. God Made a Covenant with Phinebas of Peace: and with David, that he should rule over men. Mal. 2. 5. God Made a Covenant with Isaiah, that the spirit that was on him should not depart from him. Covenants made between man and man. King Asa Made a Covenant with Benhadad, 1 King. 15. Benhadad with Ahab 1 King. 20. 2 Sam. 5. job 31. Ez. 10. 2 C●r. 15, 2 King. 11. 1 King. 13. Abraham Made a Covenant with Abimelech, Gen. 21. David with Abner, 2 Sa. 3.& with others. jacob Made a Covenant with Laban, Gē. 31. Isaac with Abimelech, Gē. 26. job with his eyes. Ioshua Made a Covenant with Israel, Ios. 24.& with the Gibeonites, josh. 9. Israel with God. jehoiada Made a Covenant with God and the King: and between the people and him. Salomon Made a Covenant with King Hiram, so as there was continual peace between them. Unlawfull oaths made: Ben●adad Swore The dust of Samaria should not be a handful for every of his army. 1 King. 2●. 1 King. 19. 2 Kin. 6. jer. 44. 25. Act. 23. Matth. 14▪ jezebel Swore She would make the life of Elijah as those he had slain. jehoram Swore That the head of Elisha should be taken from him. Certain Jemes Swore They would burn incense to the queen of heaven, and would not eat or drink till Paul was killed by them. Herod Swore He would give Herodias to the half of his kingdom. read Nahum 1. 15. Eccles. ●. 3. Numb. 30. 3. Psal. 19. 21. Isai. 50. 14. Deut. 2●. 18. Gods Justice idleness punished. idleness may be called the lethargy of the Soul, being a lazy dejecture of the whole man, from the laudable exercise of virtue, for that in a manner he becomes senseless, but in truth altogether unprofitable: From which sin, there springeth prot●action, remission, negligence, improvidence, indevotion, sluggishness, pusillani●itie, irresolution, misprision, and desperation with omission, &c. It being the n●st and root of many vices, as we may see by the example of David, 2 Sā. 11.& 12. sir. ●2. 2. who first by that sin espied Bathsheba, afterwards thereby was moved to make Uriah her husband drunk, and so proceeded till he had caused him to be murdered. Through idleness Eutichus, forgetting himself being asleep, fell down dead. Act. 20. 9. Hevah, spending time with the serpent, was deceived. Gen. 3. Adam, hearkening to Hevahs persuasion, condescended. Dinah, wandring among the Shech●mites, was ravished. Gen. 34. David beholding Bathsheba, his concupiscence was kindled. 2 Sam. 11. judah wandring in the fields, lay with Thamar unadvisedly. Gen. 38. Iobs children banqueting together, were with the fall of a house slain. job 1. Ishmael deriding Isaac, was cast out from Abraham. Gen. 21. Lots daughters made their father drunk, and lay with him. Gen. 19. Jerusalem became desolate that said in the pride of her heart, I am. Zeph. 2. 15. Michal b●holding David dancing before the Ark, mocked him. 2 Sam. 6. The man receiving one talent of his Master hide the same. Matth. 2●. The old world seeing mens daughters faire, took of what liked them. Gen. 6. The people of Laish being secure, were by the Danites overcome. judge. 18. Potiphars wife tempted joseph again and again to folly. Gen. 3●. The prodigal consuming his estate, was punished with penury. Luk. 15. The rich man bid his soul take ease, that night it was taken from him. Luk. 1●. Samson lay with Delilab at his eyes and lifes losing. judge. 16. Reuben lay with his fathers Concubine, thereby lost his dignity. Gen. 49. The Sodomites were haughty, till they were with fire consumed. Gen. 19. Tares were sown by the enemy( saith Christ) in the field. Matth. 13. Virgins five of ten had forgotten to take oil with them. Matth. 25. Women go about from house to house( saith Paul) prattling. 1 Tim. 5. 1●. The World Was found by the Angel of God to be at rest, for which the judge. ●8. ●. Sidonians. The World Lord was angry with thē, who being but a little angry for the The World carelessness of them, they helped forward their own affliction▪ Zech. 1. 1●, 15. Salomon took himself wives of many outlandish women. 1 King. 11. idleness Slayeth the foolish▪ and maketh poor: for where no oxen are, the crib is Prov. 1. 32. emp●ie▪ that bringeth under tribute, decayeth buildings, so as the house Chap. 23. 21. droppeth thorough: Impoverisheth both soul and body, the soul of spiritual Chap. ●0. 4. Graces, the body of external goods: captivating and bringing Chap. 10. 4, 18. under the tyrannies of worldly and spiritual enemies: Wo● then is Chap. 12. ●4. to him that is at ease( saith the Prophet Amos.) Amos 6. 1. The idle Person Is destitute of understanding, being wise in his own conceit, and Prov. 12. therefore shall be under tribute: he lusteth, and hath not enough: Prov. 26. 16. His desire killeth him: he eateth his own flesh, his soul suffers hunger▪ Eccl. 4. 5. his way is a hedge of thorns, his clothes are rags. A lion, saith Cha. 19. 15. and, is in the way, he shall be slain. A little sleep, and a little slumber Cha. 23. 21. ( saith he) so his poverty cometh on, that he shall beg in Summer. Pro. 1●. 19.& 22. 12& 24. 31.& 20. 4. He is the brother of a waster: His hands refuse to labour: whereby his fields are grown with thorns and nettles, so that he slayeth Cha 19. 9. himself( as the wise man saith;) And is the author of his own Chap. 21. 25. death, being a fellow de se. Eccl. 4. 5. To avoid idleness: 1. go to the Ant, consider her ways and be wise, who having no guide, overseer, Prov. 6. 6. or ruler, provideth her meat in the Summer, and gathereth her food in the time of Harvest. Chap. 14. 4. 2. Remember that much increase is by the strength of an ox, and that the king Eccl. 5. 9. himself is served by the field, in that by tilling the land, there is plenty of bread. Prov. ●8. 19. 3. Forget not Saint Pauls saying, that he that would not work should not eat: and 2 Thes. 3. 10. to move thee to work, think on Christs saying, It is more blessed to give, then to Act. 20. 35. receive. 4. Call to mind Adam, who in his innocency was commanded to dress the Gen. ●. garden: So likewise Cain the heir of the whole world was commanded to till Chap. 4. the ground: yea, Salomon a rich king, yet commanded by David to be doing: 2 Chron. 22. 16. And Christ being both God and man, was brought up with a Carpenter, labouring being subject to him. 5. Remember Salomons saying, Wealth gotten by vanity shall be diminished: but he Prov. 13. 11. that gathereth by labour, shall increase. Use. Let every man hereby learn to live in some Calling, which all godly ones have done. read Prov. 14. 23 Chap. 18. 9. Ezek. 34. 1. 1 Tim 5. 13 Zech. 1. 11. 2 Pet. 1. 8. Labour in Callings is an enemy to idleness. EVery man is bound to live in a lawful Calling, and that in a two-fold Calling: Prov. 10. 4. The one general, the other a particular: Chap. 20. 7. 1. The general is that whereby we are called to be Christians, and in this Chap. 21. 5. 1 Cor. 7. 17.& 10. ●●. Phil. 1. 10. 1 Pet. 1. 5. C●lling we are to do good to all men by teaching, admonishing, exhorting, and by Godly life, walking in Faith, Hope, and Repentance, with newness of life, &c. 2. The particular is that whereby men are called to some estate of life in the Lev. 10. 35. family, Church, or commonweal, in which according to their several conditions 1 Thes. 4. 16. of Calling, every man must do the best good he can in his place, avoiding Prov. 3. 19. slothfulness, unfaithfulness, ●ashnesse, perturbation, temptations of worldliness, Zech. 7. 10. &c. and so live honestly without scandal, justly without deceit, and peaceably Heb. 12. 4. without strife. Adam Was A tiler of the ground Gen. 3. Abel Was A Keeper of sheep. Gen. 4. Abraham Was A Prophet. Gen. ●0. Aaron Was A High Priest. Exod▪ 40. Amos Was A Herdsman. Amos 1. Anna Was A prophetess. Luk. ●. Andrew Was A Fisherman. Matth. 9. Aquila Was A Tent-maker. Act. 18. Aholiab Was A Workers in Exo. 38. 23 ●ezaleel Was A gold& silver. Exod. ●5. Cornelius Was A C●ntu●ion. Act. 10. Daniel Was A Prince of Princes Dan. 6. Esau Was A Hunter. Gen. 25. The Eunuch Was A Lord Treasurer. Act. 8. Elisha Was A Flow-man. ● Kin. 19. Gideon Was A Th●esher. judge. 6. jacob Was A Servant to Laban Gen. 30. joseph Was A Ruler in Egypt. Gen. 41. Ioshua Was A C●ptain. josh. 1. Iabal Was A Tent-maker. Gen. 4. Iu●al Was A Player on the Harp. Gen. 4. ●0. Ishmael Was A Archer. Gen. 21. joseph Was A Carpenter. Matth. 13. james Was A Fisherman. Matth. 9. John Was A Fisherman. Luk. 15. Kain Was A tiler of the ground. Gen. 4. Lydia Was A Seller of Purple. Act. ●6. Moses Was A Statesman. Exod. 18. miriae Was A prophetess. Exod. 15. M●tthew Was A Customer. Matth. 9. Noab Was A Husbandman. Gen. 9. Nehemiah Was A Magistrate. Nehem. 1. Nich●demus Was A Ruler in Israel. John 3. Obad●ah Was A governor. 1 King. 18. Paul Was A Tent-maker. Act. 18. Peter Was A Fisherman. Matth. 4. Rachel Was A Keeper of sheep. Gen. ●9. Ruth Was A Gleaner of corn. ●uth●. Samson Was A Nazarite. judge▪ 13. Simeon Was A Devout man. Luk. ●. T●bal-Cain Was A Worker in brass Gen. 4. David& Was A Kings and 2 Sam. 1. Salomon Was A Prophets. 1 King▪ 11. Patri●rchs Was A Keepers of sheep. Gen. ●7. Heb. women Was A Spinsters. Exod. 35. Sarah& Naomi Was A Nurses of their Gen. 21. own children. Ruth 4. Let every man abide in the same Vocation wherein he is called: Let him Eph. 4. 1, 2. that hath an Office wait on his office, that teacheth on teaching: Let him that 1 Cor. 7. 17, 20. ruleth do it with diligence: Let servants obey in all things, not with eye-service, Col. 3. 22. but in singleness of heart, &c. abhor that which is evil in all thy actions, do that which is good. Rom. 12. 9. Labour in Callings means of Blessings. AQuila, Lydia, and the jailer, living in a Calling were converted. Act. 18.& 16. Apollo, mighty in the Scriptures, was in the perfect way of God instructed. Act. 18. 26. Cornelius a Centurion praying, was willed to sand for Peter by an angel. Act. 10. David following the great ones with young, was called to be King of Israel. 1 Chron. 17. Daniel ruling well, was by King Darius and Cyrus greatly advanced. Dan. 6. 28. 1 Kin. 19. Act. 8. judge. 6. Gen. 31. Exod. 3. Matth. 9. Ruth 2. Matth. 4. 1 Sam. 10. 1 Sam. 3. Luk. 2. 26. Luke 2. Matth. 2. Luke 1. 5. Mark 13. 35. Elisha ploughing, was called by Elijah to be Prophet of the Lord. The Eunuch reading, was by God sending an Angel who sent Philip instructed. Gideon threshing, was made the deliverer of the Israelites from Midian. jacob, being faithful in service, was by God willed to depart from Laban. Moses, keeping sheep, was sent by God to deliver Israel from the Egyptians. Matthew, sitting at the receipt of custom, was called to be an Apostle. Ruth, gleaning of corn, was married to Boaz a man of Israel. Peter, and others fishing, were called to be Fishers of men. Saul, seeking Asses, was chosen to be of all Israel the first king. Samuel, ministering unto God, was called by him three times, Samuel, Samuel. Simeon, looking for the Consolation of Israel, embraced Christ in the Temple. Shepherds, keeping sheep, were made witnesses of Christs birth at Bethlehem. Wise men, inquiring after Christ, were by a star directed unto him. Zacharias, executing his office, was told by an Angel that he should have a Son. Watch therefore, for ye know not what hour the master will come. A Catalogue of men commended in their Calling. Abraham In the Book of God is commended for Faith. Heb. 11. 7. 2 Sam. 8. Dan. 6. 10. Gen. 5. 21. 2 Sam. 2. Gē. 24. 63. Gen. 39. job 1. 22. josh. 1. Luk. 3. 10. Mar. 3. 17. Nū. 12. 3. Nū. ●5. 6. Mat. 26. 62. Rom. 1. &c. 1 Sam. 25. judge. 16. Gen 19. 2. 1 King. 3. Matth. 2. David In the Book of God is commended for prowess. Daniel In the Book of God is commended for Devotion. Henoch In the Book of God is commended for Pietre. Hazael In the Book of God is commended for swiftness Isaac In the Book of God is commended for Meditation. joseph In the Book of God is commended for chastity. job In the Book of God is commended for Patience. Ioshua In the Book of God is commended for Courage. John In the Book of God is commended for vehemency. james In the Book of God is commended for loftiness. Moses In the Book of God is commended for meekness. Phinehas In the Book of God is commended for zeal. Peter In the Book of God is commended for boldness. Paul In the Book of God is commended for Profoundness Samuel In the Book of God is commended for uprightness. Samson In the Book of God is commended for Strength. Lot In the Book of God is commended for Courteousnes Salomon In the Book of God is commended for wisdom. Wise men In the Book of God is commended for Paint-taking. Among the Romans Among ecclesiastical Writers Tertulian Is commended for weightiness of matter. Lactantius Is commended for Well-mattered words. Cyprian Is commended for Flowing Speech. Chrysostome Is commended for stateliness of style. Bernard Is commended for Conscionable delightfulness. Augustine Is commended for profundity of Religion. Luther Is commended for powerfulness. Calvin Is commended for Compendiousnesse. Martyr Is commended for Copious Judicialnesse. Zanchie Is commended for judicial copiousness. Achilles Is commended for Couragiousnesse. Aprican Is commended for gravity. Corbe Is commended for copiousness. Eschines Is commended for Shrilnesse. Hipeudes Is commended for sharpness. Lisias Is commended for subtlety. Laelius Is commended for smoothness. Demosthenes Is commended for powerfulness. Socrates Is commended for sweetness. tully Is commended for Eloquence. Gods Justice drunkenness punished. Ebrietas est blandus Daemon, dulce venenum,& suave peccatum●. August. drunkenness is a flattering Devil, a sweet poison, and a delightsome sin, which who so hath in himself, hath not himself, and he that useth it is not himself in the Concrete, but sinfulness itself in the abstract, being a voluntary Devil, the common shane of Nature, and the prodigious disgrace of mankind, staggering in the robes of good-fellowship, shrouding itself under the wings of Merriment, being like the man that sleepeth in the midst of sea, and upon the Pro. 23. 24, 29. top of a Mast; as also the foolish mariners which needlessly let in the water to their ship, whereby they are forced to labour hard to pump it out again. 1. drunkenness is when men drink either in wine or strong drink beyond measure, so as there follows an intoxication of the powers of the soul: and is a sin that procures plagues both to body and soul, in that it inflames the blood with an unnatural heat, engenders unnatural thirst, which engenders immoderate drinking, whence comes Dropsies, Consumptions, and could diseases with untimely deaths: so that many by drinking healths to others leave no health to themselves. 2. drunkenness confounds the Memory, dulls the understanding, distempers the body, defaceth beauty, and hurts the mind: for the spirits of the heart and brain, being the mediate instruments of the soul are by drinking distempered and inflamed, and thereupon ●riseth wicked imaginations, disordered affections, and and such like; whence also cometh stink of breath, redness of eyes, diminishing of strength, woes, sorrows, contentions, wounds without cause, and such like; Prov. 23. 21, 29. Ecclus. 9. 2. &c. Chap. 31. 27. being the fruits thereof. 3. drunkenness corrupteth the blood, drowneth the spirits, beggars the purse, enricheth the Carcase with surfeits, turns blood into water, bread to drink, reason to poison, and the very soul to Froth, by an intolerable iniquitte; Swinishly disanimating the understanding power of the same, and in a word corrupteth the whole world, it being the capital cause of many and unspeakable diseases, besides of other sins, which as handmaids are attendants on it, ad daily experience sheweth. 4. drunkenness causeth vomiting and filthiness, of which the Lord himself complaineth by the Prophet Isaiah against the priests and others, and thereby they Isai. 28. went astray, so that they failed in prophesying, stumbled in Judgement, and became ignorant. Through drunkenness Amalekites lay scattered on the earth, so that David slay all of them. 1 Sam. 30. 2 Sam. 13. 1 King. 20. Da● 5. 2 Sā ●●. 1 Ki. 16. Corinth●ans, 1 Cot 11. 21 judge. 9. Matth. 14. Isai. 5. 12. Gen. 1●. Gen. 9. 1 Sam. 25. judge. 16. Isai. 28. 7. Isai. 5. 11. Amnons heart was merry, so that Absaloms servants slay him. Benhadad with fifty two other kings were by Israel overcome. Belshazzars Countenance fell down, and the Medes took his kingdom. David used means to move Uriah to cover his sin committed. Elah was by his servant, conspiring against him, murdered. Gaal with his brethren against Ahimelech conspired. Herod in his drunken banquet caused John to be beheaded. The Israelites drank till they were thirsty: Hell was prepared for them. Lots daughters lay with their Father: two cursed Nations came of them. Noah was uncovered in his tent, and discovered by his son. Nabals heart was merry: and suddenly dyed within him. Philistines sporting with Samson, were by the fall of an house slain. Priests and Prophets stumbled in Judgement, and failed in Vision. Woe Unto them that rise up early in the morning that they may follow strong drink, that continue until night, that the wine inflame them, they shall be trodden under foot, and their beauty shall fade. Woe Unto them that are mighty to drink wine, and to men of strength, mingling Isai. 5. 2●. Chap. 28. 7, 8, &c. strong drink, which causeth men to err, and to go out of the way, being swallowed up with wine and strong drink; the Lord will cause them to fall backward, and into their enemies hand. Awake ye drunkards, weep and howl, because of the new wine, for it is cut off from Ioel 1. 5. &c. your mouth, &c. and for your sin, The field is wasted, the land mourneth, the corn withered, the new wine dried, the oil languisheth, and the trees are spoiled. howl ye ministers of the Altars, for the meat-offering, and the drink-offering is Prov. 23. 21. sir. 3●. 25. Use. withholden from the house of God: The beasts groan, the herds of cattle are perplexed, Ioel 1. 10. because they have no pasture, yea the flocks of the sheep are male desolate: Use. 1. Remember Christs Admonition, Take heed of drunkenness: forget not Pauls Luk 21. 34. 1 Cor. 5. 11. Prov. 23. 10. Esther 1. 8. and Salomons, Company not with drunkards, &c. 2. Call to mind Calistines who would not pledge Alexander to have need of Esculapius, or the king to have need of the physician. 3. learn example of the bruit beasts, who in eating and drinking keep measure, taking no more then will suffice nature, therefore the Horse and ass may be whoremasters to many men given to this sin. 4. Know that no drunkard shall inherit the kingdom of Heaven: then meditate in thy future judgement of God by repentance for the same. 1 Cor. 6. 11. Be not drunken with wine wherein is excess, but be filled with the Spirit. read Micah 6. 15. Prov. 10. 1. Ecclus. 19. 2. Chap. 31. 29. Chap. 37. 29.& 31. 4, 5. Hos. 4. 11. Ephes. 5. 18. Gods Justice murder punished. actual murder is either secret, or open. 1. Secret is in poison, or some cunning device: such was Ahabs, who would 1 King. 21. not openly murder Naboth, but yet consents thereunto. Such likewise was Davids, who would not slay Uriah with his own hands, but caused him to be put 2 Sam. 11. into the battle that he could not escape. 2. Open murder is committed when one with his hands openly and willingly taketh away the life of man: this is condemned by the Lord, Thou shalt not shed Gen. 9. 6. mans blood, &c. the reason is added, for he was made in the image of God: This is therefore to deface Gods image, and as it were to raze the Princes picture, and Exod. 22. 18. great seal, yea this is so hateful to God, that he commands that if a beast slay a man, he must be slain and his flesh not eaten. Deut. 21. Open murder is committed when one lays violent hands upon himself, and this is noted of most impious persons, as Iudas and Achitophet were, which first were cruel to others, then to themselves. Samson slay himself, was he guilty of his own death? Samson when he saw his misery was dishonourable to God, pulled down the house on the Ph●listines, and dyed himself with them, yet can he not be said properly to kill himself, yet it is granted that he dyed, but he purposed not his own end to himself that he might die, but sought to be avenged upon his enemies, which by this means he knew would come to pass▪ So the Apostles judge 16. thought among themselves: If we preach Christ unto the people, we shall die, yet could not they be said that they killed themselves, when they preached the gospel, which was the cause of their death. Samson was a figure of Christ, who vanquished more a● his death, then in all ●. Heb. 11. his life: and to clear him from all suspicion, the author to the Hebrewes saith, that he did it of faith, numb●ing him with the Saints. jonah willed the mariners to cast him into the sea, was he not guilty of his own death, seeing he consented to what they did. jonah was a Prophet, and therefore knew the will of God in this case: moreover Ion. 1. over he was a figure of Christ, being three dayes in the belly of the fish, as Christ was in the heart of the earth. Is there any place of repentance left for them that kill themselves? Saint Augustine thinks hardly of them( saying) there is no place of Repentance Mat. 7. 1. Rom. 14. left for them: Wee must not judge so hardly of them, judge not( saith Christ) it is Gods office, who may give them repentance when their souls depart. The cause of murder. is either profit revenge lust such was Ahabs unto Naboath. 1 King. 22. 2 Sam. 18. 2 Sam. 12. The cause of murder. is either profit revenge lust such was Absoloms unto Ammon. Note. The cause of murder. is either profit revenge lust such was Davids unto Urijah. murdered Abimelech His brethren, he was slain by a woman with a piece of a judge. 9. m●lstone. Divers persons, he was hewed by the Prophet Samuel in 1 Sam. 15. 2 Sā. 3. I●r. ●9. 22 I●r. 51. 49 2 Sam. 18. 2 King. 21. 2 Chron. 22. 1 King. 22. 2 King 9. 1 King. ●. 2 Sam. 4. 2 Sam. 12. Ioel 3. 9. 2 Ch. 24 1 Ki. 2. 2 Ch. 25 Gen. 4. Exod. 2. 11. jer. 26. 22. Ez●k. 3●. 18 I●horam. 1 C●ron. 21 2 Ki. 15. 2 Ki. 15. Manasseb Eze. 11. 16 Exod. 1. Ch. 14. pieces. Asahel, he was slain by joab treacherously, Absolom Amnon, he was after hanged by the hair in a three. King Amon, they were all of them by the people slain. Athatiah The Kings seed, she was put to death by jehojada for the same. Naboth, they were both slain by the enemy. Baasha Nadab his son, Elah was slain by Zimry. Baana Ishbosheth with Rechab, they were put to death by David. David Uriah, his blood was of his posterity required. Edom Divers persons with Egypt ● their lands were both wasted. Zechariah, he was by his own servants murdered. joab Abner, he was slain at Salomons command by Benaiah. joash, they were put to death by King Amaziah. Kain Abel, he became a runagate over the earth. Mehanem Shallum, his own son was slain by Pekah. Pekah Pekahiah, he was afterwards slain by Hoshea. Pharaoh Little children, he was drowned with his army in the Sea. Saul Gibeonites, his sons were slain by the Philistines. 2 Sa. 31 Gen. 49 Paul. Lev●. Sim●on. Simeon Skochemites with Levi, they were cursed for their cruelties. Zeba Gideons brethren with Zalmunna: They were both slain judge. 8. Chap. 9. by Gideon. Zimri King Asa, he burnt himself in the Kings mansion▪ 1 King. 16. That by violence sheddeth mans blood shall be a runagate to his Deut. 24. 17. Prov. 28. 17. Exod. 21. 12. Gen. 9 6. Deut. 35. 3●. Mat. 26. 32. grave: That smiteth one that dieth shall die, and that sheddeth mans blood, by man shall his blood be shed: All that take the sword shall perish with the sword, and that kill shall be killed. The murderer Shall not inherit the kingdom of Heaven, neither shall live half Rev. 13. 10. Chap. 21. 8. Gal. 5. 21. Psal. 55. 25. Psal. 5. 6. Hos. 4. 2. his dayes: The Lord will abhor him: and for his sin will cause the land to mourn, and all that dwell therein, with a destruction of each thing. recompense Shall be none taken for murder( saith the Lord) but inquisition Numb. 35. 32. &c. Deut. 21. shall be made, that the murderer may be found; for the Land shall not be cleansed of the blood that is shed therein, but by the blood of him that shed blood. The Remedy of murder. The way To prevent murder is to keep ourselves from envy and hatred, to take heed of revenge, to be courteous, loving and kind, &c. Following 2 Cor. 13. 11. the Apostles counsel, forgiving one another, as God for Christ hath forgiven us: seeking peace and ensuing it. The which that we may all do, the Lord grant Amen. Gods Justice whoredom punished. whoredom is an inordinate desire of filthy and unhonest pleasures, being the leprosy of the soul, and a fire that shall devour to destruction, and job 31. 12. root out mans increase. Adultery Is the incontinency of persons that are unmarried, or of person● whereof Deut. 22. 22. Mat. 5. 28. one is married: as also is when men by impure thoughts do lust after any, which Christ forbids. Fornication is the incontinency of persons that are unmarried. 1. The sin is like a furnace, whose mouth is gluttony, the flamme pride, the sparkles filthy words, the smoke an evil name, the ashes poverty, and the end shane and destruction: for that lust conceived bringeth forth sin, and sin perfected bringeth forth death. 2. This sin is more violent then all other sins, for of all the troubles and battles that Christians are to fight, this combat of chastity is most difficult, for that the wrestling is perpetual and the victory rare. 3. This sin doth not only pollute, contaminate and destroy the soul, but also Prov. 6. 26. 22. getteth a plague, dishonour and reproach, that shall never be put out, defileth the body, which is a member of Christ, and the temple of the Holy Ghost. ●very sin( saith S. Paul) that a man doth is without the body, but he that committeth 1 Cor. 6. fornication, sinneth against his own body, that is by profaning it with carnal lusts and fleshly sin. 4. This sin spoileth the good name, weakeneth and enfeebleth the strength, job 31. 12. taketh away beauty, hurteth the sound constitution, bringeth infinite diseases, which are both filthy and reproachful, perisheth and blasteth the flower and blossom of youth, in not suffering it to bud and increase, bringeth old-age before the job 24. 15. jer. 5. 8. time, breaketh the form and strength of the will, dulleth the understanding and maketh a man like unto the bruit beast, and like a fed horse, saith the Prophet jeremy. 5. This sin withdraweth a man from all honest studies and exercises, and draweth him into the sea of carnal pleasures: It maketh young men foolish and reproachful, and exposeth old-men to the shane of men, so that their talk is but of carnal delights. The motives moving a man to this sin, are natural corruption, gluttony, idleness, Note. jer. 5. 7. sir. 9. 2. scurrilous talk, a discovered dug, a naked breast, frizzled hair, artificial painting, wanton apparel, costly perfumes, a rolling eye, an unchaste foot, hope of impunity, the accompanying with women, and idleness the chief of all of them. Lay with Abraham Hagar, by whom he had a mocking Ishmael. Gen. 16. 2 Sam. 13. 2 Sam. 16. 2 Sam. 3. judge. 20. 2 Sam. 11. 1 Sam. 2. Gen. 38. Gen. 35 Nū 25 Nū. 25 Ex. 22. 11. 〈◇〉 5●. Ammon Tamar, he was therefore slain by Absolom. Absolom Davids Concubine, his end after was hanging. Abner Sauls Concubine, he was after by joab slain. Benjamites A Levites wife, twenty five thousand were slain. David Bathsheba, Absolom his son lay with his Concubines. Women forbidden, they were slain by the Philistines. Tamar his daughter in law: his conscience accused him. jacob His wives handmaids: Reuben lay with one of them. One Israelite A Midianitish woman: both were by Phineas slain. Israelites The daughter of Moab: Twenty four thousand were slain. The incestuous The wife of his father, he was delivered over to Satan. 1 Cor. 10. 5. 1 Cor. 5. Gen. 19. Gen. 6. Luk. 15. Gen. 49. judge 16. judge. 14. His daughters, two cursed Nations came of them. Old world Women that they liked, they all perished in the flood. Whores, he was with famine and hunger pined. Reuben His Fathers Concubine; he lost the dignity of birth-right. Samson Delilah, he lost his strength, hair, eyes and life. His companion, she was with her father burnt by the Philistines. Sodomites Each other, they were burnt with fire from Heaven. Gen. 10. Gen. 34. Shechem Dinah, he was slain with all the Shechemites by Simeon. Gen. 34. Salomon Women fo●bidden, the Lord raised adversaries against 1 King. 16. him. Were both plagued with their wives, women and families, but Gen. 12. Chap. 20. for taking Abrahams wife into their house. John by reproving Herod, by Herodias means lost his head. Mat. 14. Gen. 39. joseph after denying his mistris was a long time imprisoned. The man That committeth adultery shall die the death, with the woman Levit. 20. 10. Deut. 22. 22. Cha. 20. 12 Chap. 19. 20. Chap. 10. 14, 40 job 31. 9. Deut. 22. 22. with whom he lieth: he also that lieth with his daughter in law shall die the death: he that lieth with a woman affianced shall be scourged, that taketh a wife and her mother, shall both be burned, that uncovereth his brothers wife shall be cut of, that lieth with another mans wife, his wife shall grind to another. The Priests daughter that playeth the whore shall be burned. Levit. 21. 9. Num. 5 Deu. 23 job ●1. 1. The wife found to be adulteress, her belly did swell and thigh rot. Bastards were forbidden to enter into the Congregation to the tenth descent. Bastards plants shall take no deep root, nor lay a fast foundation. Wisd 4. 3. Ch. 3. 17. Deu. 17. 18. The hire of a whore brought to be offered to God, was abominable to him. The man That accompanieth adulterers shall become impudent. Ecclus. 19 3. rottenness and worms shall have him to heritage. The Whoremonger Destroyeth his own soul, kindleth a fire which shall devour Pro. 5. 3.& 6. 25. Prov. 6. 32. job 31. 12. Hos 4. 3. Ecclus. 4. 4. 1 Cor. 6. 9. Gal. 5. 19. Rev. 8. 32. Heb. 13. 4. to destruction, rooteth out his increase, all bread is sweet to him, he will not leave off till he perish: he shall not enter into the kingdom of God, he shall be judged by the Lord, and shal have his portion in the lake that burneth with fire and brimstone. The remedy against whoredom. 1. Use labour, abstinence, temperance, prayer, stay the beginning while it is young, look not unadvisedly on a woman, gaze not on a maid, but with job Ecclus. 9. jo● 31. 1. make a covenant with thine eyes, hear no unhonest speeches, speak no unclean words, think on holy thoughts, in every temptation set before thee the presence of God, who beholdeth thee, the devil that will accuse thee, and think on the judgement that at last shall be pronounced against thee. 2. Remember that example of a modest Matron, who being tempted by a lascivious one, professing to do any thing for her love, so as she would grant him his desire; after a long time, she called for a pan of coals, requesting him for her sake to hold his finger in them but one hour: to which he answered, that it was Perkins. an unreasonable request: to whom she replied, that seeing he would not hold so much as one of his fingers in a few coals for one hour, she would not yield to do that thing, for which she should be tormented body and soul in Hell for ever. 2 Sam. 20. 3. 3. think on Demosthenes, who being demanded of Lais a famous courtesan of Corinth a great sum of money to lie with her one night; he answered, he would not buy repentance at so dear a rate. 4. Set before thy eyes joseph, who being tempted by his wanton mistress, to lie Rom. 13. 13. Gen. 39. 9. Mal. 2. 14. Rom. 6. 21. with her, answered, How can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God? and forget not Pauls saying, What fruits have ye had in these things whereof ye are now ashamed? the end of them being death. Use. It should teach us as the Apostle counseleth, to fly fornication, to possess 1 Cor. 6. 18. 1 Thes. 4. 5. Rom. 13. 13. Exod. 20. our vessels in holinesse and honour, and to walk honestly as in the day, not in rioting and drunkenness, neither in chambering and wantonness, always having in mind the law of God, Thou shalt not commit adultery. read Deut. 22. 20. Chap. 23. 18. job 24. 15. Prov 2. 16. Chap. 5. 3, 8. Cha. 6. 26, 12. Chap. 7. 7. Ezek. 23. 17. Prov. 9. 13. Chap. 23. 27. jer. 5. 7. Levit. 18. 20. Wisd. 3. 16. Ecclus. 9. 1 Chap. 19. ●. Chap. 23. 21. &c. Ephes. 5. 3. Gen. 20. 11. Exod. 22. 16. Levit. 19. 20. Deut. 23. 18. sir. 19. 3. Gods Justice covetousness punished. covetousness is an inordinate desire of any thing, unto which evil the man that is subject unto, is the servant and slave of all other sins: For that the covetous person can never be satisfied, but is provoked and enflamed more and Prov. 15. 27. more by how much the more he hath, like the man that hath the dropsy, the more he drinketh, the more he thirsteth: So that although he have, yet he always coveteth that which he wanteth, so that the miserable and wretched heart of the covetous man wandereth throughout all the things of this world, and is wearied, but never satisfied; drinketh, but his thirst is not quenched; he esteemeth not those things which he hath, unless he possess in like manner those things which he hath not, and he hath no less trouble for things which he compasseth not, then he hath pleasure in the things which he possesseth; neither is his heart more satisfied with gold then the body with wind and air; This Viper hath divers heads with which it snatcheth at the trash of the world( to wit) fraud, unquietness, perju●ie, bribes, sacrilege, theft, usury, rapine, and simony. This horseleech hath two daughters that cry, Bring, Bring, H●ll and destruction are never Prov. 30. 15. Prov. 27. 20. Ecclus. 10. 9. &c. full, so the covetous person can never be satisfied. In a word, there is nothing worse then a covetous man, nor a more wicked thing then to love money, for such an one would even sell his soul to get wealth unto him: The Covetous person is An infidel For he loveth not his brother, and he that loveth not his brother walketh in darkness, and knoweth not God. 1 joh. 1. For he makes the Epha small, and the shekle great, he falsifies Amos 8. 5. Prov. 21. 6. mat. 24. the weights by deceit, and sels the refuse of Corn. A thief For the goods that he possesseth are none of his, he is but a steward of them, and shall yield account. A murderer For such are his ways being greedy of gain, that he taketh Prov. 1. 19. Amos 8. away the life of the owner, and swalloweth the poor. As a camel That all the day carries treasure for other, and at night is turned into the stable with a galled back. As a slave, For that he attendeth day and night upon his wealth, being always in great suspicion of his Treasure. A discontented one, In that he is vexed and grieved in mind, when he is to depart from any of his coin by payment. An Idolater, offending idolatrously Against the second Commandement, for that he worshippeth Ephes. 5. 5. Exod. 20. Psal. idols, in reposing so much confidence in his money, making it his god. Through covetousness The Angels which kept not their first place were cast into hell▪ Iude 6. Gen. 3. josh. 7. Adam, desiring to know good and evil, became miserable. Achan took things excommunicated, he was with all his stoned. An Amalekite said he had slain Saul in hope to be rewarded: David caused 2 Sam. 1. him to be put to death for slaying Gods Anointed. Ahab took Naboths vineyard: his posterity were all destroyed. 2 King. 9. Act. 5. Iud. v. 11. 2 Sam. 4, &c. judge. 16. Col. 3. 5. 2 Tim. 4. Act. 19. Act. ●4. 2 King. 5. Gen. ●●. Gen. 34. 1 Kin. 13. 33. 1 Sam. 8. Micah 3. John 1●. Gen. 31. Gen. 13.& 14. Act. 16. 1 Sam. 25. Exod. 4. jer. 6. 13. Matth. 21. Mat. 19. 1 Sam. 15. 1 K●. 12. Samuels sons took bribes. Act. 8. Mat. 1●. Souldiers. Ecc. 4. 8.& 6. 2. Ecclus. 6. 2. Pro. 27. 20.& 1. 19. jer. 57. 17. Ecclus. 5. 12. Ephes. 5. 5. Luke 1●. 15. Ananias kept back part of the money, &c. he was strucken suddenly dead. Balaam went to Balak, by the deceit of his own wages he perished. Baanah and Rechab slay Ishbosheth in hope to have been rewarded by David, he caused them both for their fact to be executed. Delilah betrayed Samson into the hands of the Philistines. Demas forsook Paul, and embraced the worldly vanities. Demetrius accused Paul for speaking against images his gain▪ Felix called Paul before him, in hope of money to have loosed him. Gehazi took Naamans gifts; he had thereby his leprosy. herdsmen of Abraham and Lot fell at great controversy. Hamor and Sh●chem persuaded the Shechemites to be circumcised. Ioel and Abiah Samuel's sons for gain judged. Judges in Israel for rewards gave their judgement. Iudas spake against Magdalens box bestowed of ointment. Laban dealt ill with jacob; and his sons spake against him. Lot made choice of the land of sodom, which proved hurtful to him. The master of the maid accused Paul casting out the spirit of soothsaying. Nabal denied victuals to David, his heart dyed within him. Pharaoh would not let the Israelites depart, as God commanded. The Priests Taught for hire, and for gain they prophesied. Suffered the people to buy and sell in the Temple of God. Peter asked Christ what the Apostles should have for following him. King Saul spared Agag, his sheep and oxen: for which God rejected him. Shimei seeking his Runaway, was put to death by Salomon. Sim▪ Magus would have bought the holy Ghost, a curse was pronounced on him The young man departed sorrowing, being willed to sell his possession. The Covetous person Hath no end of his travel, neither can his eye be satisfied with riches, not thinking for whom he traveleth: He hath riches, and treasures, and honours, and yet no power to use them. His riches shall perish by evil travel, evil is reserved for him: the Lord is wrath with him, and will smite him, is angry, and turneth himself from him: He shall beget a son, and in his hand shall be nothing▪ And as the Apostle saith plainly, He shall not enter into the kingdom of Heaven. Use. 1. This should teach us to take heed of covetousness: for that though a man Luke 12. 15. have abundance, yet his life standeth not in riches. Love not the Moon-shine, that Eccl. 6. 7, 8. thou contemn the Noon-shine, do not so live that the solace of this life, minister matter of eternal death. 2. Be content with the condition and estate that is happened unto thee: being Gen. 23. 13.& 14. ●●. 1 Tim. 6. 8. Gen. 33. 9. Matth. 6. 33. Gen. 28. 20. mindful of that of the Apostle, Having food and raiment be therewith content: Seek the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all things else shall be ministered unto you▪ saith Christ. 3. Remember that godliness is great gain, if a man be content with that he hath: if therefore it please God to give thee poverty, take it patiently, for the Heb. 5. 5. 1 Tim. 6. 7. &c. Psal. ●7. 16. poor are like unto Christ, who when he was rich became poor for our sakes: Learn then in all estates to be content; we brought nothing into the world, neither shall we carry any thing here-hence. 2 Cor. 6. 10. Psal. 119. 36. Heb. 13. 5. 4. Let your conversation and without covetousness, be content with those things that you have: for God hath said, I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee. Chrysostome saith Homil. 51. He is not poor that hath nothing, but he that desireth much: He is not rich that hath much, but he that wanteth nothing. For Contentation never wanteth, Phil. 4. 12. There is no grief in lacking, but where there is an immoderate desire in having. If we will live after nature, we shall never be poor; If we will live after our own appetite, we shall never be rich. Remember thou shalt meet with the Grave and Hell: There is mould enough in the Grave: Fire enough in Hell. drink of the waters of thine own well, and of the river that runs out of thine Prov. 5. 15. own Spring▪ Set not thine eye upon the thing which suddenly vanisheth away. Prov. 23. 5. For riches make themselves wings, and fly away like an Eagle. Give me, O Lord, neither poverty nor riches, only give me things necessary, Prov. 30. 8. lest being full, I should deny thee▪ and being fallen into poverty, should steal, and forswear thee. If thou with what God wils shalt pleased bee: Be sure all things shall then be well with thee. read Prov. 30. 15. Prov. 1. 11. Dan. 11. 39. sir▪ 14. 9. Prov. 15. 16. Eccl. 5. 18, 19. Gods Justice usury punished. usury is the Devils Alchimistrie, which turns silver into gold, and chemically projects money out of the poores bowels: it is lucre by lending: It is a sin that hath many advocates and patrons: it is( as Aristotle saith) a monstrous thing by the very light of Nature, for money to beget money: and thereupon the heathen by the light of reason styled Usurers, ravenous usurious Vultures, being infamously guilty of that sin of which a converted Jew, an honest heathen, or tolerable turk would be ashamed and remorseful: being stigmatized by joint consent of charitable hearts, and strongest current of best divinity with a brand of extraordinary bruitfulnesse, hard-heartedness, and cruelty: in that he is like a freting Canker with a plausible invisible consumption, wasting day▪ stays, sucks Prov. 22. 7. the blood, eats the lives of many, fills towns and cities with improfitable persons, and the country with miseries and inhumanities. Now usury is a gain exacted by Covenant above the principal, only in lieu Ezek. 18. 8. and recompense of the lending, which is quiter contrary to Gods Word, and therefore may sitly be called biting usury. The Law of England doth permit usury to raise two shillings in the pound, therefore usury is not unlawful? It is one thing to permit usury, and another to allow thereof, by our positive laws is meant, that those men, who cared not how much they exacted out of poor mens hands for the loan of their money, should be limited within certain bounds, lest they should overflow reason. So that the laws do but mitigate the penalty, which if it were possible would restrain men from it. The Person that Hath given forth upon usury, and hath taken increase, he shall not live, he Ezek. 18. 13. hath done abominably, he shall surely die. Hath taken usury and increase, and hath greedily gained of his neighbour by extortion, the Lord will smite his hands at his dishonest gain, Ezek. 22. 12, 13. which he hath made, and will scatter him among the heathen: and he that putteth his money to usury, and taketh reward shall not rest on ●he Psal. 15. 5. Prov. ●8. 8. Chap. 20. 21. holy hill of the Lord. And that increaseth his substance by usury and unjust gain, he shall gather it for him that shall pity the poor, and the inheritance that he hath gotten hastily, the end therof shall not be blessed. Iudas By evil gotten goods purchased shane, and a field with the reward of iniquity, Act. 1. 18, &c. who falling headlong burst asunder in the midst, so that all his bowels gushed out. The Lord thy God saith, Thou shalt open thy hand wide to the poor, and shalt lend him sufficient Prov. 28. 8. Hab. 1. 6. Deut. 15. 8. &c. for his need in that which he wanteth. If thou lend to any that is poor, thou shalt not be to him an usurer, neither shalt thou lay upon him usury. Thou shalt not lend upon usury to thy brother, usury of money, usury of victuals, or usury of any thing whatsoever, unto a stranger Deut. 23. 20, &c. thou mayst lend on usury( meaning that the Israelites might lend to the Canaanites, &c.) whom they might lawfully murder, to Exod. 22. 25. those they might lend upon usury, to murder them therewith by little and little. Christ thy Saviour Commanded to lend freely, looking for nothing again( that is, for Matth. 5. 42. the use or gain thereof) to every man that asketh of thee: and of him that taketh away thy goods, ask them not again, and in so Luk. 6. 84. doing thy reward shall be great. The remedy of usury. To abstain from usury remember the Lords Promise, saying, The man that Ezek. 18. 8. hath not given upon usury, neither hath taken any increase shall surely live and shall not die. The man that putteth not out his money to Usury, nor taketh rewards against the Psal. 15. 5. innocent, shall rest on the holy hill of God. Use. 1. Seeing thou seest the way to Heaven, learn to follow it. 2. Let godly Magistrates learn to tread the steps of good Nehemiah, who remedied Neh. 5. 1. &c. 10. the oppression of many by usury, and that by causing them to leave off that burden, and by making them to restore the land, vineyards, houses, &c. as also to remit the hundred part of the silver, corn and wine that was exacted by any of the Jews. 3. For admonition: Let racking, extorting usurers, whose enclosures hath wounded whole villages and friended only two or three with the plaster of their bounties by an Almeshouse, not think that a sufficient satisfaction for their wrong. 4. Let all covetous hunger starved Usurers, who sell wheat and eat beans, who have many in their debt, and yet are most in their own debt, for not paying their belly and back a quarter of their deuce, learn to make better use of Gods Creatures. read Ecclu●. 25. 29. Pro. 22. 7. Pro. 13. 11. sir. 5 8. Ezek. 22. 12. Gods Justice Oppression punished. Oppressed Ahab Naboth taking his vineyard from him, it was his ruin. 2 Chro 16. 10. 2 Ki. 1●. 4. 22 2 King. 10. ●sai. 47. ●. Babylonians The Israelites with heavy yokes: Gods judgements fell on them. Edomites The Jews, for which shane covered them, and evil took Mat. 23. 4. Ezek. 7. 23.& 22. 26. Isai. 3. 15. Amo● 8. 5, 8. Mich. 2. 2. Job 2●. 6. Ps. 140. 1●. Isa. 52. 4. Ioel 1. 9. Ohad. 1 10. Exod 7. Ch. 14. Chap 3. 9. jer. 22. them. Egyptians The Israelites, they were often plagued, at last drowned. jehoiakim His subjects, he had the burial of an ass, and was not lamented. Rehoboam His subjects by laying burdens on them: ten Tribes fell 1 King. 12. from him. The Israelites Divers, for which adversaries were brought against them, Amos 3. Cha 4. Mich 2. jer. 21. Ezek. 12. 12. Gen. 6. 11. who laid their lands waste, spoyled their palaces, so that they decayed. The old world The poor with cruelty, they perished in the flood. The Person that oppresseth The widow and fatherless God will slay him, and will make his wife a widow, &c. Exod. 22. Psal. 7. 16. Mal. 3. 5. Mal. 3. 5. jer. 22. 13. Prov. 22. 16. Ezek. 18. 12. Pr. 5. 1● C. 20. 19 ● Th. 4. 6 Ze. 7. 10 Pro. 20. 22 ●●.& 27. 14.& 14. 31. job 20. 19.& 24. 2& 27. 25. Psal. 140. 11. Mich. 2. ●. &c. Chap. 6. 12. jer 17. 11. Isai. 5. 7. Iam 5. 4. Hab. 2. 9. job 20. 8. 19, 20. Prov. 22. 23. job 35. 9. Isai. 10. 1. and his children fatherless, so that his oppression shall fall on himself. The Hireling ●y keeping back of his wages, the Lord will punish him. The poor To increase himself, shall himself come to poverty, and that hath not restored the pledge, he shall die, his blood shall be upon him. The afflicted In judgement, the Lord will spoil the soul of that man, or by fraud doth injury any, the Lord will avenge himself on him. Any By refusing to hear his cry, the Lord will not hear him, and that doth evil to any one, it shall be his destruction, and that taketh the fields of others, the Lord will device an evil against that family, so that they shall eat and not be satisfied, &c. And as the Partridge gathereth her young, which she hath not brought forth; so he that gathereth riches and not by right, shall leave them in the midst of his dayes: and that joineth house to house, and field to field, woe shall be unto him, for such houses shall be desolate, and that by building by blood, and stablishing it by iniquity, the stones thereof shall cry out of the walls, and the beam out of the timber shall answer it: he shall feel no quietness in his body, he shall be in pain, the hand of the wicked shall assail him, the Lord will do violence unto him, who hath prepared judgements for him. Because of unrighteous dealings and wrongs, and riches gotten by deceit and Ezek. 12. 9. Ecclus. 10. 8. oppression, the land shall be desolated, and the kingdom from one people to another translated. The LORD Will set at liberty those who are snared by oppression, when they that Mal. 3. 5. Psal. 12. 5. Psal. 72. 4. Deut. 2. 23. Levit. 17. 10. Deut. 14. 21. Deu 22. 6. &c. Gen 9. 4. Psal. 12. 5. Psal. 62. 10. have oppressed them shall cry and not be heard. The Lord Did so abhor oppression and cruelty, as that he required the Mal. 3. 5. Psal. 11. ●.& 12. 3.& 140. 11.& 35. 1●. use. blood of that man, that did eat the flesh of beasts with the blood thereof: as also commanded the Israelites, that if they found any birds nests in their way traveling, that they should not seeth a kid in his mothers milk, nor destroy the dam of the young one, nor eat flesh with the life thereof, that is the blood. read of Tyrants and tyranny. Use. 1. Doth the Lord so abhor oppression and cruelty, as that he would have mercy Prov. 12. 10. Prov. 3. 14. Mich. 3. 3. job 27. 13. Psal. 62. 10. Prov. 16. 8. Prov. 22. 20 Ezek. 7. 11. Dan. 4. 27. shewed even to the beasts and fowls. What then shall those oppressors expect, whose hearts are cruel, whose teeth are as swords, and their jaws as knives to devour the poor from the earth, and the needy from among men: who eat the flesh of the people, and slay off the skin from them, who break their bones and chop them in pieces as for the pot, and as flesh within the Cauldron( saith the Prophet Michah.) Surely they shall cry unto the Lord, but he will not hear them, he will hid his face from them: trust not then in robbery and wrong. 2. Doth the Lord so abhor oppression? Follow then the counsel of Daniel: break off that sin by repentance unto God, by mercy to the poor: and with Zacheus by restitution to wronged, oppressed and injured men. Luk. 19. The Lord saith Thou shalt not oppress the stranger that dwelleth with thee, if thou sell ought unto thy neighbour, or buy ought of him, ye shall not Levit. 19. Chap. 25. 14. oppress one another therein. job 35 9. Chap. 5. 7. Prov. 13 11. Chap 14. 31. Chap. 28. 20. Chap. 29. 13. Chap. 30 15. Isai 3 14. Eccles 4. 1. Prov. 21. 6. Amos 1. Chap. 2. Chap. 3. job 20. 19. Psa. 72. 4. Psal. 62. 10. Psal. 140. 7. Iam. 5. 3. sir. 5. 8. Levit. 25. 14, 17. sir 34. 18. Am. 5. 11. Obad. 14. Hab. 1. 17. Mich. 3. 3. Zeph. 1. 9. Isai. 47. 6. Ezek. 22. 7 Syra 40. 13. Chap. 10. 8. Prov. 20. 21. job 24. 2. &c Psal. 12 5. Prov. 16. 8 Chap. 14 31. Zech. 7. 11. Mic. 6. 12. job 20 8. Prov. 22. 23. job 35. 9. Prov. 14. 31. Isai. 58. Isai. 10 1. job 22. 6. jer. 17. 11. Zeph. 1. 9 read of Tyranny. Of Restitution. REstitution is to be made by all such as have taken any thing wrongfully by Usury, oppression, deceit or such like: Without which mans repentance for sin Numb. 5 6, 7. is not acceptable before God: And therefore we are to follow Christs command herein,( saying) If thou bringest thy gift to the Altar, &c. go● first and be reconciled Mat. 3. 25. to thy brother, then come and offer thy gift, &c. What if I be not able to make restitution, will not God then be merciful and hear the prayer made to him? Debt is not deadly sin, when a man hath no means, there must be votall restitution, if there cannot be actual, quoad affectum, though thou cannot quoad effectum: 2 Cor. 8. 12 Deut. 10. 17. Bern. 2 Cor. 8. 11. If there and a willing mind it is sufficient, not according to that a man hath, but according to that which he hath not. God reckons that as done, which a man, Vere volvit, tametsi adimplere non valuit: faithfully would, though not fully could accomplish. David said, O Lord, thou knowest mine innocency. Psal. 7 8. 1 Sam. 12. 3. Samuel Whose ox or ass have I taken, whom have I defrauded, whom have I hurt? Or of whose hand have I received any bribe to blind mine eyes therewith? And I will restore it. Michah give to his mother, the silver that he had taken from her judge. 17. job 31. 38. job Said, If my land cry against me, or the surrowes thereof complain together, let 2 King. 8. 6. this●les grow instead of wheat, and cockle instead of barley: And again saith, The wicked shall restore that he took violently. job 20. 18. Luk. 19. Mat. 27. Nehem. 5. 8. Zacheus, If I have taken by false accusation: I will restore four fold. Iudas will condemn many, who brought again the pieces of silver. Nehemiah caused the Jews to restore what was exacted by them. Salomon willed not to with-hold the goods from the owner of them▪ Prov. 3. 2. Numb. 5● Exod. 22. Ezek 33. ●5. Phil●m 9. The Lord commanded restitution to be made of things taken to keep, taken by robbery, by violence, oppression and such like. If the wicked restore the pledge, and give again that he had robbed, &c. He shall Prov. 6. 3●. Job 20. ●8. live and not die, saith the Lord. Owe nothing to any man, but love one another( saith the Apostle.) Rom. 13 8. Psal 37. ●1. The ungodly borroweth and payeth not again, but the righteous is merciful and Eye for eye, Levit. 24▪ liberal( saith the Psalmist.) read jer. 20. 18. ● Cor. 7. 2. Exod. 22. 3. &c Numb. 5. 8. &c. Gods Justice False witness bearing and Slander punished. FAlse witness bearing is unjust judging and condemning of our neighbours, contrary to the Commandement of Christ, who bids us not to judge: And it is 1 Kin. 21. also an unjust accusing and false testimony in judgement: Such as was that wherewith Naboth was accused. And it is also called a cavil or crafty accusation, which is when something is either taken from the truth or put to it, or changed, as they did, that testified against Christ, affirming that he had said, I can destroy the Temple of God, &c. And lastly, it is a slandering or back-biting of one, in John 16. Mat. 26. 6. speaking ill of his neighbour, that is free from evil, being absent, and so impaireth his name and credit, which is a most grievous offence, for that the slanderer hurteth three at once, himself, the hearer, and him that is slandered, howbeit he hurteth him least of all being absent, for his name onely is hurt, but the conscience of both the other is hurted by a sin against God and their neighbour committed. Pro. 20. 3, 19. Ch. 13. 5.& 16 27.& 18. 8.& 26. 22. The Slanderer is ever meddling till he shameth himself: His lips are as hot as burning fire, and his words are wounds and like Hammers, saith Salomon, wherewith men break stones, &c. and his daily exercise is in mis-reports. What if he that reporteth of his neighbour speak the truth, speaking of his faults, may that be called slandering? It ought: for he sinneth in a double respect. First his mind is estranged from the affection of Christian charity, yea he is rather moved to that wickedness by a desire of speaking ill, or else that he may get himself praise by the dispraise of another, which appeareth by that he passeth over all the virtues of his neighbour, reckoning up all his faults, and often times enlarging them. He objecteth those things against his neighbour, not with a mind to amend him, but rather out of an ●●l opinion that he hath of him. King Ahab Slandered Elias Saying That he was the cause of the plague sent by 1 Ki. 18 1 C●●. 6. ●. God. Azariah Slandered jeremiah Saying That the word he had spoken was from jer 43. Baru●k. Amaziah Slandered Amos Saying That he had conspired against the King by Am. 7. 10. Nū. 24. 1●▪ his word. Doeg Slandered Abimelech Saying That he had asked counsel for David of 1 Sam 22. the Lord. The devil Slandered job Saying That he would curse God, if God did afflict job 1. him. Ephramites Slandered G●leadites Saying That they were runagates among the Ephramites judge. 12. of Ephraim. Hamon Slandered The jews Saying That thy did not observe the Kings laws. Est. 3. Gen. 44. jer. 37. Act. 2. Act. 24. joseph Slandered His brethren Saying That they were thieves and came as spies. J●r. 18. 18. Irrijah Slandered jeremiah Saying That he was about to fly to the chaldeans. The Jews Slandered Apostles Saying That they were full of new wine. The Jews Slandered Paul Saying That too much learning had made him mad. The Jews Slandered Christ Saying That he had said he would destroy the joh. 8. 40. John 20. Mat. 9. 2 King. 6. Gen. 4. Jer. 5 12. Jud. 12. 4. Ephramites. Temple of God, and that he cast out devils by beelzeebub. jehoram Slandered Jesus God Saying This evil cometh from the Lord. Kain Slandered The Lord Saying My punishment is more then can be forgiven. King Amon Slandered Davids messenger Saying That they came but to spy out the 2 Sam. 10. Land. Laban Slandered jacob Saying That his gods were by him stolen. Gen. 31. 30. certain men Slandered David▪ Saying, Things of him that were not known by Psal. 27. 12.& 35. 11. him. Suborned men Slandered Steven, Saying, That they heard him speak blasphemously. Act. 6. Potiphars wife Slandered joseph, Saying, That he went about with her to commit folly. Gen. 39. Souldiers Slandered Christs disciples, Saying, That they came by night when they were Rom. 3. 8. mat. 28. 12. asleep, and stolen Christ out of the grave from them. King Saul Slandered jonathan, Saying, That he had stirred up David against him. 1 Sam. 2●. 1 King. ●1. Susan. Hist. Two witnesses Slandered Naboth, Saying, That he had blasphemed God& the king. Two Rulers Slandered Susanna, Saying, That she had with a young man lain. Ziba Slandered Mephibosheth Saying, That Mephibosheth had said that the kingdom 2 Sam. 10. of Israel should be restored to him. Exod. 23. 1. Levit. 19. 16. james 1. 26. Gen. 18. 18. The person that accuseth falsely, it shall be done to him as he thought to have done Deut. 19. 16. Prov. 19. 5. Pro. 20. 19 to him whom he accused, he shall be punished, saith God. The backbiter shall not be established in the earth, evil shall hunt him. Prov. 19. 9. Chap. 21. 8. psal. ●. 4. 11.& 101. 5. sir. 28. 13. The Lord hateth a false witness, and the man that speaketh lies. To avoid this sin. 1. Have a charitable opinion of thy neighbour, which must be shewed by taking doubtful things in the best part, by defending his Name, if he be slandered; as also by being grieved, if thou hear true reports of his evil deeds. 2. Let every one speak the truth from his heart, and that with a good affection, Prov. 24. 28. in love when we speak of the faults of any. 3. Remember that the Lord commands that thou shalt not have to do with any Exod. 2●. 1. Exod. 20. Wisd. 1. 11. false report, neither shalt thou put thy hand with the wicked to be an unrighteous witness. 4. Take no heed to every word that is spoken, l●st thou hear thy servant curse thee: for thine own heart knoweth that thou thyself also hast often-times spoken Eccl. 7. 21. evil by other men. As the wind drives away rain, so doth an angry countenance a backbiters Prov. 25. 22. tongue. Where no wood is fire goeth out, where a Tale-bearer is taken away, strife Chap. 22. 20. ceaseth. read Levit. 10. 16. Gen. 31. 7. Prov. 12. 17, 19. Chap. 26. 20. Chap. 19. 5. Ch. 21. 28. Chap. 24. 28. Matth. 18. 16. 2 Cor. 13. 1. 1 Tim. 5. 19. Heb. 10. 28. james 4. 11. Ecclus. 5. 25. Chap. 28. 11. 13. james 1. 26. Prov. 4. 15. Psal. 35. 21. Levit. 1●. 16. Exod. 23. 1. Psal. 1●. 3. Rom. 1. ●9. Luke 6. 37. Prov. 14. 28. Prov. 11. 13. Prov. 16. 28. Chap. 25. 23. Prov. 6. 19. Prov. 13. 5. Chap. 26. 20. Gods Justice Lying punished. A lie is made when we speak the contrary to that we think, with an intention to deceive, wherein there be four things that confirm it to be a lie: 1. To avouch and affirm that which is false and untrue. 2. To speak with a double heart, that which is against knowledge. 3. To have a mind to deceive, being forbidden in the ninth Commandement. 4. To speak that which is a false testimony upon a vanity of mind without reasonable cause: such is boasting and ●lattering. There are three kindes of lies, which proceed from covetousness, from infirmity, and from lightness for pleasure sake. From covetousness: And they are heinous, because they most hurt our neighbour: and such was Ziba's to David. 1 Sam. 16. From infirmity: Such was Abrahams in saying to king Pharaoh that Sarah his wife was his sister. Gen. 12. From lightness: Which Christ condemns, saying, that for every idle word we shall give account at the last. Matth. 13. Made a lie in saying Adam Eve was the cause, and Eve▪ the serpent that they did ea●. Gen. 3. 1 King. 22. Gen. 12. 2 Sam. 1. 1 King. 20. Ahab should have good success in going against the Aramite. Abraham Sarah was not his wife to Abimelech asking him. Amalekite He had slain Saul, for which David caused him to be slain. The Aramites God was the God of the mountains only, not of the valleys; There were slain of them one hundred thousand in one day. They had not kept back any part of the money made by Act. 5. Hos. 7. 13. Jer. 5. 12. Iewes. 1 Sam. ●●● them: they were both by sudden death by God strucken. David King Saul had commanded him a certain thing unto Abimelech the priest, who relieving him, fourscore and five that wore the l●nnen Ephod were therefore by king Saul slain: as also in saying to king A●hish that he had been 1 Sam. ●7. Hos. 12. 1. Ep●raim. against the Jerahmelites and Ken●tes, when he had been against the Amalekites. The Gibeonites They came from a far country unto Ioshua, whereby they got josh. 9. peace by their subtlety: they were condemned to slavery. Gehazi He went no where, when he went after Naamans money: 2 King. 5. he got thereby to himself and his Naamans leprosy. Hushai That he would be with Absalom, when as he was against him. ● Sam. 16. Esth. 3. Hos 7. 13 jer. 5 12 Numb. 11. Haman The Jews did not obey the laws of Ahasuerus the king. The Israelites Their souls were dried away, and that they could see nothing but Man: for which many perished among them. Isaac Rebekah was not his wife, being by Abimelech asked. Gen. 26. Gen. 27. jer. 38. 16. Gen. 4. Exod 1. 2 Sam. 13. 1 Sam. 19. jer. 23. 14. jacob He was Esau his elder brother, to get the blessing. jeremiah The king commanded him to say to the princes asking him Cain He knew not where Abel was, whom he had slain. The midwives The Heb▪ women were delivered before they came to them. The men That Absalom had destroyed all king Davids children. Michal That David was sick in his bed, Saul sending to take him. The Prophes The people should prosper right well when they feared not God: The Lord therefore fed them with wormwood. Pharaoh He would let Israel depart, so Moses would pray for him. Exod. 8.& 9. Gen. 37. 1 King. 13. 18. Matth. 27. Gen. 31. josh. 2. 2 Kin. 18. 25. Isai. 36. 10. Gen. 3. patriarchs To jacob that joseph▪ was by some wild beast slain. Old Prophet An angel willed him to cause the Proph▪ to return with him. Peter He knew not Christ, being by a damosell asked of him. Rachel The custom of women was on her, Labā going to search her. Rahab She knew not whence Ioshuas spies were entertained by her. Rabshakeh That he was sent against Jerusalem by the Lord: fourscore and five thousand of his were slain by God. The serpent Adam and Eve should be as Gods to know evil and good. Satan He would give Christ all, &c. when he had nothing to give him. Matth. 4. Gen. 18. 1 Sam. 28. 1 Sam. 17. Pro. 12. 19▪ 22▪& 26. 28 sir. 20. 25. Psal. 31. 18. Sarah She laughed not, being reproved by the Lord for the same. The witch Satan was Samuel, who appeared to Saul seeking him. The woman The priests sons were gone, being by hoar hidden. A lying tongue varieth incontinently, and is abhorred by God greatly. Psal. 31. 18. Prov. 17. 4. The remedy of Lying. To avoid Lying consider that the devil is the father of lies, follow therefore John 8. 44. Col. 3. 9. Iam. 3. 14. Saint Pauls counsel, make Conscience of thy words: speak the truth from thy heart: be not a liar from the truth. Truth what it is. 1 King. 2. 4. Psal. 32. 2. Psal. 15. 2. ● Es●. 4. 34. TRuth is a fruit of Gods Spirit, a mark of Gods child, the Center wherein all things repose themselves, the Map whereby we sail, and the balm whereby we are healed: The power whereof is so great, that no engine will, or Art can subdue the same: who albeit shee hath no attorney to defend her cause, yet is she defended notwithstanding by herself. Whereas on the contrary, Psal. 5. 6. Lying is conformity to the devil, and the reward thereof destruction, in that they that are liars shall have their portion in the lake of fire and brimstone. Rev. 22. 15. Put away Lying, speak every man truth to his neighbour, forasmuch as we are members one of another. Ephes. 4. 25. read Ecclus. 20. 24. jer. 50. 36. Prov. 21. 6. Gods Justice Deceit and Guile punished. SUch is the corruption of the Nature of man in this age, that they convert that into Deceit which God gave them for good reason, whereby it falleth out that one deceit bringeth another, and so consequently cousenages are heaped upon cousenages. There are two kinds of Deceit or Guile: The one carnal▪ The other spiritual: Carnal Is that wherein men defraud one the other by bargaining, selling, changing, and such like; in things promised to be good that are bad, Hos. 12. 7. &c. to be of better value, then found: as also by false weights and measures forbidden by God; together with all kind of cunning used contrary Deut. 25. 11. Levit. 19. 35. to Gods Word. And 1. spiritual Is a double kind of dealing between God and mans own self in the things which concern the soul, springing from Godly duties, and good actions, which sin hath many branches, and was found in Paul, saying, Once was I alive without the Law, &c. and in the proud Pharisee Rom. 7. 9▪ Gal. 1. 14. Luk. 1●. 11. Matth. 9. 1●. praying, I thank God, &c. and in the man whom Christ called righteous in the Gospel. 2. It is to extenuate and lessen sin: So did King Saul. 1 Sam. 13. 11. 3. To place Religion only in outward observances: So do Papists. 4. Is a wrong reasoning from the Example of Gods Children falling into sins: Many will say, Was not David▪ an Adulterer,& c? Why should not I satisfy my lust? It may be as well with me as with them: whereas the Holy Ghost hath set them down, that men repenting might not despair by their Example, not that men should thereby presume to sin more freely. 5. It is a misle-interpreting of certain gracious places of Scripture, to wit, that God will spare the Elect: That he will accept the will for the dead; which indeed God doth in their beginnings, but hereupon the wicked run on in their gross ● Cor. 8. 12. sins and wicked courses, abusing Gods mercies. 6. Is drawn of a false conclusion out of Gods long-suffering, saying, that sentences Psal. 50. 21. Eccl. 8. 11. against evil works are not executed speedily, therefore Preachers( say they) persuade that God is more severe, then he ●s indeed. 7▪ Is a hope to satisfy and make amends for many evil courses by a little devotion, or by some show of charity, and this is the conceit of papistry. 8. Is to look no further then to the show of godliness, thinking to be religious enough if they have learned the art of seeming, and can make an outward semblance, 2 Tim. 3. 5. of which Saint Paul speaketh. Through Guile and Deceit Absalom practising with the people to aspire to his fathers kingdom, inviting 2 Sam. 15. 2 Sam. 13. 2 Sam. 13. Act. 5. 2 Sam. 11. judge. 16. Ammon to his house, caused him to be slain. Ammon feigning himself sick lay with Tamar, sending for her to attend him. Ananias kept back part of the money made of his possession. David made Uriah drunken, and after caused him to be slain. Delilah did undergo Samson, till his strength was taken from him▪ Gibeonites pretending to come from far●e, moved Ioshua to make peace josh▪ 9. 2 King. ●1. Esth. 3. with them. Gehazi got change of garments and silver from Naaman. Haman got a Commission from the King to hang all the Jews. The high Priests made the people believe that Christ was stolen by his Matth. 28. 2 Sam. 3. ● Sam. 20. Gen. 27. 1 Ki. 12. 2 Ki. 10. 18. 1 Ki. 14. Jer. 41. Mal. 1. 8. Jews. Disciples. joab spake pe●ceably unto Abner when he slay him. joab pretending to kiss Amaziah calling him brother, smote him. jacob putting on his brother Esaus garments got the blessing. jeroboam Erected two calves that the people might follow him. Sent his wife disguised to the Prophet to inquire of him. jezebel pretending friendship to Gedaliah and others, slay them. Certain Jews persuaded the people that Paul did preach unlawful ordinances, Act. 16. Chap. 19. Chap. 23. Gen 29. Chap. 31. 7. &c. as also did lye in wait to have slain him, under pretence of great matters they had to object against him. Laban gave Leah the elder sister for Rachel the younge●, as also changed his wages for his service often. The patriarches took Iesephs coat, and dipping it in blood, sent it to their father, affirming that some beast had slain him. Gen. 37. Certain Princes To take away the life of Daniel made a law that none Dan. 6. should make a petition for certain dayes, but to the king● They were by their own law devoured in the lions den. Pharaoh promised to let the Israelites depart, so that Moses would pray for Exod. 7. Chap. 8. Exod. 8. him, whereas no such matter was meant by him. Pharaohs for ceters wrought strange things before him, which deluded him. Old Prophet telling a lye to the seduced prophet made him to go with him. The Pharisees asked Christ, if it were lawful to give tribute to caesar or not, mat. 22. 15. thinking thereby to have entangled him. Rachel covered her fathers idols by excuse, when he sought them. Gen. 3●. Rechab and Boanah slay Ishbosheth, pretending to buy corn of him, they were both of them by King Davids command slain again. 2 Sam. 14. Gen. 5. The serpent moved Eve to eat, persuading her thereby to know each thing. King Saul sent David for an hundred Philistines fore-skinnes for match with his daughter, thereby to have him slain: and then in stead of Merab, 1 Sam. 18. Adriel was given by him. Simeon and Levi Caused the Shechemites to be circumcised, pretending thereby to Gen. 34. mary their sister to Shechem, whereas indeed their purpose was to slay them. Simon Magus used witchcraft to be accounted a great man. Act. 8. Tamar attired herself in the habit of a whore to deceive judah her father in law, who lay with her unknown. Gen. 38. Ziba reporting an untruth of Mephibosheth unto David, moved David to give Mephibasheths land unto him. 2 Sam▪ 16. The false Prophet Zedekiah made horns of iron, and brought them before Ahab, saying, With these shalt thou push the Aramites till thou have consumed 2 King 22. them; whereas in the battle as Ramoth-Gilead he was overcome by them. Theudas drew many after him, reporting himself to be a great man. Act 5. 26. Wicked men by false weights and measures get riches unto them. Amos 8. 8. M False balances, divers weights and measures are an abomination to the Lord. Prov. 11. 1.& 20▪ 10. The deceitful man roasteth not that he took in hunting: The bread of deceit is sweet to Prov. 12. 27.& 20. 17. him, but his mouth shall be filled with gravel. As a cage full of birds, so is his habitation full of deceit; of the treasures of wickedness, jer. 5. 27. Micah 6. 10. scant measures, and deceitful weights. read Prov. 20. 17. 1 Th●s. 4. 6. jer. 9. 4. Chap. 7. Prov. 26. 18, 19. The remedy of Deceit. To prevent deceiving, beware of smoothing dissemblers, for that none ever have been deceived, but in that whereof they are ignorant, or else in that which sir. 10. 8. is obscure and darkened. They that perceive not deceit shall be oftentimes by themselves deceived: it is prodigious by a good man to be deceived. Of subtlety. Through subtlety Ehud presenting a gift unto Eglon, pretending a secret errand unto him, with his dagger stabbed him. judge. 3. 16. jael pretending friendship unto Sisera, inviting him to turn in to her, was by her with a nail slain. judge. 4. joab, sending a woman, disguised unto David, of Tekoah, reconciled Absalom( having slain Amnon) unto him. 2 Sam. 14. jehu called all the prophets of Baal together, pretending to have a great sacrifice to do unto Baal, who being assembled were all of them slain. 2 King. 10. 19. joseph caused his silver Cup to be put into the sack of Benjamine, that thereby he might accuse his brethren, as by a just cause to imprison Gen. 44. them. The Philistines suffered no smith to dwell in the land of Israel, that thereby 1 Sam. 13. 19. they might not make themselves any swords, &c. onely they allowed them a file to sharp their mattocks and their goads. read more of means, page. 42. Gods Justice Theft punished. THere is comprehended under the name theft, all evil trades and deceits, by which we get to ourselves other mens goods, which is usually done five manner Deut. 25. 13. Pro. 11. 1. of ways. 1. By sacrilege, when a man taketh things dedicated to God. 2. By robbery, when a man taketh that which is another mans. 3. By fraud, selling counterfeit wears for good wears. Pro. 21 6. Psal 15. 4. By usury, when gain is taken contrary to Gods word. 5. When men under the colour of the law steal mens goods, which they do that pervert the law. Now under these kinds be comprehended the favourers of theft, and all they which by pr●tling exact a greater prise, or else that deceiveth by false weights and measures, as also that receive from thieves, having stolen from others. stolen Adam From God the forbidden fruit, he paid dear for it. Gen. 3 josh. 7. Gē. 27 Gē. 31 Gē. 34. Dani●es Iud. 18. 18& 9. 25. Shechemites. Things appertaining to God, he was with his stoned. jacob The blessing from his brother: he was forced to sly. Rabel Labans gods, she was barren a long time thereby. Simeon The Shechemites goods with his brethren: jacob blamed them. Shechemites From others, they were by Abimelech in the end slain. judge. 9. Mal. 3. Mat. 27. Prov. 21. 7. Israelites Their tithes from God, they were cursed and their land barren. The thieves That were with Christ crucified: and Barrabas b●ing imprisoned. The Person That stealeth a man, and selleth him shall die, and that stealeth Prov. 9. 17. Exod. 21. 16. Chap. 22. 1. Zech. 5. 3. 7 an ox, sheep, &c. shall make restitution, and that stealeth shall be cut off, and the curse shall consume that he hath. Cursed is he that hangeth on a three: Cursed is the land where thieves be. Deut. 21. Hos. 4. 2 Sam. 12. job. 12. 6. Prov. 21. 7. Prov. 4. 24. 1 Cor. 6. 10. Prov. 5. 15. David judged him to die, that had taken away his neighbours sheep. Iudas was counted a thief, a fearful example for thieves. The man that is partner with a thief, slayeth his own soul by his dead: And the thief shall not enter into the kingdom of God. The Remedy of Theft. B●ware of covetousness, that is the desire of riches. avoid prodigality, spend not thy goods wastefully. Fly idleness, follow Pauls counsel, work with thy hands. Ephes. 4. 28. Ex. 20. Lev. 19. 13. Thou shalt not steal, wrong thy neighbour or rob him. Let him that stolen steal no more, but rather l●t him labour, working with his hands the thing which it good, that he may have to give to him that Ephes. 4. 28. needeth. Of Fidelity and faithfulness. FIdelity is the closet of the secret of another, which stands in two duties: The one to make conscience of a lie, and to speak the truth, yea such as we think it is, and not to speak one thing and think another: The other when a man hath made a promise that is lawful and good, to keep and perform the same. Faithfully Abrahams servant did the message committed to him concerning Isaac his Gen. 24. son. David Performed his promise made to jonathan in showing mercy to Mephibosheth 1 Sam. 20. Chap. 22. Chap. 24. his son, as also behaved himself towards Saul and towards Abiathar in relieving of him. The Gibeonites did sight for the Israelites, after their peace made with josh 10. them. Hushai dealt with David in discovering Abithophels counsel. 2 Sam. 15. Gen. 29. 1 Sam. 20. 1 Sam. 14. jacob served Laban seven yeares for his daughter Rachel. jonathan carried himself always towards King David. jonathan did in all things as his heart desired. Faithfully joseph proved to his master in denying what his mistress requested. Gen. 39. 2 Sam. 12. 2 King. 11. joab did in giving the praise to David of the victory got by him. Ieh●iada dealt with joash in procuring his kingdom to him. The men Of Jabesh Gilead shewed themselves in burying Saul and his sons: and the men of Judah in taking part with David against 1 Sam. 31. 2 Sam. 20. Matth. 25. his enemies: and two of the three men by employment made of their T●lents. Mordecai discovered the treason intended against Ahasuerus the king. The people dealt with David by willing him to continue in the city the Esth. 2. 2 Sam. 18. time that they fought against Absalom. Paul dealt for the poores necessity in the Collection. 2 Cor. 9. 2 Sam. 17. josh. 2. 2 King. 12. Chap. 22. 7. The woman of Bahurim preserved Abimaaz and jonathan. Rahab hide the spies sent by Ioshua; the king sending for them. The workmen Bestowed the money gathered to repair the Temple delivered them, yea so as that the people required no account to be given thereof by them. Blessed is the man that shall be found at the Lords coming to be faithful and wise: He shall be made ruler over his goods. Matth. 24. 45. A faithful servant is as could snow in the time of harvest, refreshing his masters Prov. 25. 13. soul( saith Salomon.) The man that is faithful in that which is least, is faithful also in much; and Luk. 15. 10, 11, 12. sir. 29. 3. he that is unjust in the least, is unjust also in much, &c. Gods Justice Of Pride and Ambition punished. PRide is the beginning and end of all sins, because it is not onely a sin, but Ecclus. 10. 7, 12, 13. Pro. 13. 10.& 30. 10. Chap. 11. 2. Psal. 10. 3. Luke 18. that no sin is, or hath been, or shall be without it: This sin causeth a man to think he hath a thing, when he hath it not, which cometh of self-love: As also it causeth us not to aclowledge from whence we have that we have, making us to glory in the Gift not in the Giver, with the Pharisee. There are two sorts of Pride: The one of Opinion, There are two sorts of Pride: The other of Action. Of the first sort are they, who say not with Moses, Lord, who am I? Exod. 3. 11. But they say in their own Pride, Lord, what am not I? The other sort are they who once being conceited, lash out their riches in excess of diet, in vanity of apparel, and such like, and then they will be proud as an Italian, new-fangled with the Spaniard, drunk with the graecian, gluttonous with the Muscovites, and cruel with the Tartarians. So that often-times in one and the same Creature, we have the English speech, the Spanish fashion, the Italian behaviour, a manly shape, and a beastly life. From these two former kindes of pride there springeth Isai. 10. 12. Chap. 16. 6. 1 joh. 2. 17. 2 Ki. 20. Prov. 28. 11. Rom. 12. 16. Prov. 10. 7. Psal. 52. 7. Prov. 16. 18. arrogancy, Pride of life, Pride of gifts, Pride of sinning, which is in high looks, and indignation of spirit. in glorying in friends, money, &c. to think himself wise in conceit. in committing of great evils, and that against knowledge, conscience notwithstanding accusing; together with presumption, obstinacy, hypocrisy, boasting, ingratitude, contempt, disobedience and curiosity, which brings a man to final destruction. The Description of a Proud Man. The ambitious man is bread out of the dust, yet he catcheth at Lordships and Honours, ransacks the city, forredges the country, scours it through the Church, Adams Serm. but his errand is at Court: He is the Maggot of pride, begot out of corruption, and looks into an office, as the Ape did when he had got on the robes of a senator. Now for his pride that pleaseth no body, because he himself is acceptable to no 1 Pet. 5. body: He doth not please God, for that he is contrary to him, for he resisteth the proud: He doth not please the humble, for that they altogether abhor pride: He pleaseth not proud men, because they cannot abide any greater then themselves: His pride onely pleaseth the devil, who is delighted with those that are like himself. Through Pride The Angels were cast out of Heaven: Adam or Paradise Eden. Iude 6. Gen. 3. Ahimelech, Absalom, Adoniah, and Athaliah aspiring were slain. Are not my Princes altogether Kings? Is not Calno as Charchemish? Ezek. 31. 3. Jer. 50. 29. Isai. 10. 2 King. 19. ● Mach. 9. Mark 9. Dan. 5. 1 Cor. 4. 18. Isa. 47. Isa. 47. 7. Numb. 22. 37. 2 Ki. 1. Psal. 30. 6. Obad. 3. jer. 49. judge. 12. judge. 9. Gen. 16. 2 Chr. 32. 35. 2 Ki. 20. Esth. 7.& 5 11. Act. 12. Isai. 9. 9. Hos. 6. 3. shall not I as I have done to Samaria do to jerusalem? God plagued him. Antiochus advanced himself, till by a fall God wounded him. The Apostles reasoned who should be the greatest among them. Be●shazzar was lifted up till a hand-writing struck him. Babylon said she was a Lady: God brought her to destruction. Two Captains of three sent to take Elijah commanded him to come down. David said he should not be moved: Absalom rose against him. Edomites made their nests on high, the Lord brought them down. Ephraimites set themselves against jephthah, thousands were slain. Gaal said, Who is Abimelech? He was forced to fly from him. Hagar bearing Ishmael, despised Sarah, being barren. Hezekiah shewed all his treasures to the men of Babylon. Haman was hanged on the gallows provided for Mordecal. Herod was strike with worms, so that he died suddenly. The Israelites said the bricks were fallen, but they would build them of hewn stones: God moved adversaries against them. The women of Israel had their heads made bald, their secret parts discovered, their ornaments taken away, in stead of sweet savour they had stink, Isai. 3. for a girdle a rent. The Jews would not have Christ being poor to reign over them. Matth. 27. Eze. 16. 1 Ki. 12. Jerusalem was destroyed, and jeroboam for calves erecting. The king of Aram said that the dust of Samaria should not be a handful apiece for those that followed him. He was by the Lord overcome at the 1 King. 20. last with a small number of men. The King of tyre said he was a god: He was destroyed by God. Ezek. 28. Isai. 14. 12. N●●b. N●●b. 16. 10. 16. Zeph. 8, 15. 2. Isai. 16. 8. Gen. 11. 1 Sam. 25. Dan. ●●& 4. Psal. 83. 11. exod. 5. Exo. 15. 9. 〈◇〉. ●. Joh. 19. Mat. 23. 5. Luk. 1●. Isai. 36. judge. 4. Act. 8. Ezek. ●7 3. konrah and his company set themselves against Moses. Moab did howl unto Moab through desolations. Nimrod building Babel, all languages were confounded. Nabal in his drink and chu●lishnesse said, Who is David? Nebu●hadnezzar said, Who can deliver? is not this Babel that I have builded? Orch and Zeeb said, Let us take for our possessions the habitations of God. Pharaoh said, Who is the Lord? The Princes of Succoth boasted. Pilate said to Christ, Have not I power to deliver thee? The Pha●●see exalted himself praying: The Publican in humility. Rabshakeh blasphemed: His army was slain by an Angel. Sisera came to battle against Israel: he was slain by jael. Simon Magus mounted to be like God, bewitching the people. Sheba Shallum, and Zimri conspired, they were executed. Theudas boasted, he, and many of his company perished. Act. 5. Zedekiah smote Micatab, asking, when Gods spirit departed, &c. 2 Chron. 26. 16. ● 2 Chron. 18. Matth. 20. Psal. 73. 11. Job 21. 14. ●●●p. 22. 17. Prov. 27. 1. Pro 30 32. mat. 23. 12. Pro. 29. 23. Chap. 16. 7. 2 S●●. 22. 〈◇〉 26. 5. Pro. 15. 25 Ps. 119. 21. Chap. 16. 5. Is●●. 13. 11. Chap. 26. 5. Jam. 5. Zeph. 1. 8. Ezek. 17. 24. Mal. 4. Pro 16. 5. Rom. 12. 3, 16. Gal. 5. 2●. Zebedeus sons james and John desired of Christ to be promoted. The wicked say, How doth he know it? Who is the Lord? The wicked say, Depart from us, what can the almighty do for us? Men Shall be humbled and brought to shane, they shall be visited, and their houses made desolate: Their riches shall be corrupted, their garments shall be moth-eaten, their silver and gold shall canker: They shall be abominable to the Lord, and shall be left without root or branch, their end shall be destruction, and without repentance damnation. Use. 1. Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, the strong man in his strength, Jer. 19. 23. Isai. 2. 11. Luk. 1. 51. Luk. 4. 11. or the rich man in his wealth, for that the high looks of men shall be abased, in that the Lord putteth down the mighty, and shall be himself exalted onely, together with them of low degree, whom he will exalt highly. 2. Remember that thou art but dust, thy breath is sinful, thy life miserable, thy body worms meat; Then take heed of pride that cast Lucifer out of Heaven, it will not then place a proud man again in Heaven: Then to avoid it, 3. Consider from whence thy Pride cometh: for, If Pride proceed from Riches, They may be lost in a moment. nobility, It may be stained. Knowledge, It is full of error. Wit, It's guilty of folly. Strength, It may soon decay. Honour, It is but a ceremony. Good success, Time may alter it. beauty, Age may wrinkle it. Health, sickness may destroy it. Clothing, moths may consume it. dainty food, It may breed surfeiting to thee. Friends, They may as Davids and Iobs did prove miserable comforters unto thee. 4. Know that pride is the most pestilent and compatible opposite that Grace sir. 23. 4. hath; The remedy whereof is humility: for as pride doth ba●●sh us from God, Gal. 5. 26. so humility doth call us again unto God. read Lam. 4. 5. Dan. 4. 34. Hab. 2. 5. Prov. 16. 18. Chap. 21. 4. Psal. 101. 5. Psal. 73. 6. Psal. 138. 6. Zech. 9. 6. 2 King. 14. 9. Ecclus. 29. ●8▪ 2 Chron. 26. 16. Prov. 27. 1. Chap. 30. 32. Psal. 17. 10. Rom. 11. 18. Eccl. 7. 8. sir. 10. 14. sir. 2. 30. Luke 16. 15. Ezek. 28. 1, &c. Chap. 31. 10. 1 Cor. 4. 19. sir. 10. 12. Matth. ●8. 14. Isai. 26. 5. Ezek. 17. 24. Psal. 119. 11. Prov. 6. 17. job 38. 15. Luke 14. 7, 8. Luke 1. 52. Chap. 14. 11. Of humility and meekness. humility is an Appeaser of wrath, a Quencher of envy, and a Mother to Peace and sacred Union: And an acknowledging of ourselves to be utterly void of all goodness, like the Publican. Also it is the settling and quieting of the mind, freeing it from perturbations, especially in repressing revengeful affections 1 Pet. 3. 4. ( so as the Apostle saith) a meek and quiet spirit are joined together, of which we have a notable Example in Moses, who being provoked, in stead of Numb. 12. anger shewed meekness. The sign of meekness and humility is willingly to suffer ourselves to be taught of our inferiors, and to suffer admonitions, &c. humility is seen three ways: 1. By lowliness of mind, which is when a man is not conceited of himself, job 37. 24. but retains a sense of his own unfitness and unworthin●sse, so did joh. 2. By silence from our own praises, whereof Salomon speaketh. Prov. 27. 2. 3. By avoiding jangling, which ariseth out of envy, and contempt of others. The ground or cause of humility is affliction and poverty of spirit, for hardly 1 Cor. 4. 21. can he be meek and patient in spirit that hath not been acquainted with the Isai. 53. 7. cross. Luk. 23. 9. The Benefit of meekness is such, as it maketh a man to yield of his own right Prov. 15. 1. to others, as also bridleth the tongue, pacifieth anger, and stilleth wrath, going before Prov. 15. 33. honour, in that He that humbleth himself( as saith Christ) shall be exalted. Matth. 23. 12● In humility Abraham Said to the Lord, I have begun to speak, let not my Lord be Gen. 18. 27. angry, I am but dust and ashes▪ and coming to the Hittites Chap. 23. 7. bowed himself unto them. Chap. 33. 6. Ahab repented when he heard the plagues threatened. 1 Kin. 21. 27. Agur said he was more brutish then any man. Prov. 30. 2. One Captain of the three sent to Elijah, prayed him to spare him. 2 King. 1. 13. The Centurion came to Christ, confessing that he was not worthy that Christ should come under the roof of his house unto him. 2 Sam. 9. 8.& 16. 21.& 24. 17. Psal. 25. 11.& 35. 13.& 51. 5.& 119. 176.& 69. 11. Matth. 8. 8. David Said, Who am I? and what is my life? or my fathers family, that I Psal. 131. 1. should be son in law unto the king? and being derided by his 1 Sam. 18. 18, 23 wife Michal for dancing before the ark of God( said) that he 2 Sam. 15. 26. would be more vile, and low in his own sight: And being told 2 Sam. 6. 22. a Message by Nathan from the Lord, said, Who am I, O Lord, and 2 Sam. 7. 18. what is my house, that thou hast brought me hitherto? 1 Chron. 17. 16. Psal. 22. 6. Daniel was sound three times a day praying unto God. Dan. 2. 30.& 6. Eli said, Let the Lord do what seemeth him good. Chap. 9. 3. 1 Sam. 3. Elihu confessed that he was out of the day formed. Job 33. 6. The Eunuch confessed that he understood not what he red. Act. 8. 31. The Elders fell down before him on the throne, and worshipped. Rev. 4. 10. Gideon said to the Angel he was the least of his fathers house, and that his judge. 6. father was poor in Man●sseh, &c. Hagar returned to her Dame, as the Angel willed. Gen. 16. Isal 32. 1. 2 Kin. 20. Chap. 38. 2. Isai. 39. 8. Gen. 47. ● Hezekiah answered, being by the Prophet reproved. jacob meeting his brother bowed himself unto him, and confessed he was Gen. 33. 5. not worthy the least of Gods blessings. Chap. 32. 4. 2 Ch●on 2●. 12. job 40. 4.& 1. 21.& 2. 10.& 4●. 6.& 1● 15.& 9. 21.& 17. 14. 2 C●ron. 34. job said, I am vile, I have spoken that I understood not, I abhor myself in dust and ashes. josiah behaved himself, so that God stayed the plague threatened. jeremiah said, Behold, Lord, I cannot speak, I am a child. Jer. ●. 6. jer. 10. 19. judge. 1● Gen 38 26. jephthah answered the Eph●aimites being wrongfully accused. John confessed that he had need of Christ to be baptized: As also that he Joh. 3. 30 Joh. 1. 15 was not that Christ that should come, whose shoe latchet he was not Matth. 3. worthy to unloose from him. In humility The Keeper of the prison and people asked, how they might be saved. Act. 16& 2. 27. Matth. 8. Exod. 4. 10.& 6. 30 Numb. 12. 2 Sam. 19. 2 Chron. ●3. Luk. 1. 38. 2 Sam. 9. Luk. 7. 38. jonah 3. 5. Dan. 4. G●n. 43.& 50. 18.& 41. 9. Luk. 5. 8. Act. 3. 11. Act. 10. 25. The Leper worshipped, saying, Lord, if thou wilt, I may be cleansed. Moses behaved himself, so that he was called a meek man. Mephibosheth answered David, Ziba having falsely accused him. Manasseh was humbled, by being in Babylon fettered. Mary said, According to thy word so be it to thine handmaid. Mephibosheth said to David, Why shouldst thou look on a dead dog as I am? Magdalene kneeled behind Christ, washing his feet with her tears. N●●evites fasted repenting of their sins and iniquities. nabuchadnezzar confessed God, being restored to his kingdom. The patriarches bowed themselves to joseph coming to buy of him. Peter said, Lord, go from me, for I am a sinsull man: and seeing the people give glory to him, confessed that what he had done was by the power of Christ alone: and seeing Cornelius fall down before him, said, Stand up, for even I myself am as thyself a man. Paul confessed to be the least of the Apostles, and the most chief of all sinners, 2 Cor. 15. 9. 1 Tim. 1. 11. 15. Eph. 3. 8. Publican, Luk. 18. 13. Pharach, Exo. 9. 27. not worthy of Heavens joys. Paul and Barnabas seeing men going about to sacrifice unto them, they cried A●t. 14. 15. Luk. 15 2 Chro. 12. josh. 21. 22. Rom. 7. 14. 1 Cor. 4. 4.& 9. 19. 2 Cor. 11. 7. A●t. 20. 19.& 14. 15. 1 Sam. 9. 21. 1 Sam. 1 Sam. 2. 21. 15. 24. Chap. 25. 21. Luk. 15. out confessing that they were but men. The prodigal confessed that he had against his father sinned. Rehoboam and his Princes were before the Lord humbled. Reuben's children answered the Israelites, being by them reproved. Saul Before he was king confess●d he was of the smallest tribe; Saul And pursuing David, that he had exceedingly erred. The woman of Canaan continued her svit to Christ for her daughter. The wise men fell down before Christ, offering gold, frankincense, and Matth. 2. 11. myrrh. Christ Who was equal with God, became man, being born of a woman, Phil. 2. 7, 8. John 1& 5. Chap. 13. Luk. 23. 41. 5. 14. job. 7. 16. job. 18 23 Matth. 2●. 5. Isai 5●. 4. Joh. 13. 4. Luk. 22. Psal. 11●. 5. living in Galilee, not in a famous city, being subject to joseph and Mary: road to Jerusalem on an ass, washed the feet of his disciples, passed his life in the company of poor and sinners: And in his passion was as a sheep before the shearer, praying, lastly, for them that persecuted him, and now humbleth himself to behold the things on earth from heaven. Abraham, Aaron, Moses, The people, John, Fell down on their faces before God. G●. 17. ● Gē 2●. 12 Romb. 14. Ezek. 1. 28. 1 King. 18. Rev. 1. 7. Ioshua fell down to the earth upon his face before the ark of the Lord, he and the Elders of Israel, and put dust upon their heads. josh. 7. 6. job Fell down On the ground, and worshipped. job 1. 20. Mark 5. 22. joh. 11. 32. 2 Chro. 20. 13. 2 Chro 6. Isai. 38. 2. Mat. 17. Mar. 10 Act. 9. Luk. 22. jairus Fell down At the feet of Christ praying him. Magdalene Fell down behind Christs feet washing them. All judah stood before the Lord with their young, wives, and children. Salomon kneeled down on his knees before the Congregation. Hezekiah turned his face to the wall being sick, and prayed. The father of the lunatic, and many other, before Christ kneeled. Peter, Paul, and Christ himself often kneeled, and prayed. Serve the Lord in fear, and rejoice before him▪ trembling. Zeph. 2. 3. Rom. 12. 16. Psa. 113. 6.& 138. 6.& 144. 4. Z●ph. 2. 3 Psal. 2. 11. Col. 3. 12. Psal. 25. 9. Iam. 4. 10. 1 Pet. 3. 5. God will guide the meek with judgement, and the humble in his way. To move to humility consider Christ was an Example thereof: many excellent Promises are made to them Mat. 11. 29. Z●ph. 2 3. Psal. 25. 9. Prov. 22 4. Prov. 15. ●3. 1 Pet. 3 4. Ma●. 5. ●. by God, it is a virtue that God maketh a great account of, without which we cannot savingly hear Gods Word. The Lord will relieve the meek, honour shall follow them: And blessed shall they be, for they shall inherit the Land, and the Lord himself shall dwell with them, that he may heal their broken Isai. 57. 1●. Psal. 14●. 6. Psal. 25. 9.& 5●. ●5. mind. walk therefore in humbleness of mind, and meekness, with long-suffering, Phil. 2. 3. Ephes. 4. 2. P●●l. 2. ●▪ 8. Pro. ●●. 33. Gal. 6. 1. Prov. 16. 19. supporting one another, and it shall bring you honour. read Prov. 15. 1. james 1. 21. Isai. 66. 5. Ecclus. 3. 19. Matth. 18. 4. Phil. ●. 3. Gal. 6. 1. Zeph. 2. 3. Psal. 37. 9. Psal. 25. 9. sir. 3. 19. Chap. 10. 28. Wisd. 9. 5. Psal. 113. 6. 2 Chron. 2. 6. Prov. 16. 13. Luk. 14. 7. Gods Justice Ungodly Derision punished. There are three kindes of Derision: by gesture, by words, by works: By Gesture, By Making mows, nodding the head, sharpening the eyes, casting Job 16. 4. 9. Psal. ●5. ●9. Psal. 12. 5. Psal. 35. 16. Tit. 3. 2. Rom. 14. 10. Iam. 4. 11. Gal. 5. ●5. Prov. ●2. 8. Psal. 4. 1●●. Psal. 5. 6. Psal. 96. ●6. Psal. 41. 9. Psal. 38. 20. the countenance, putting out the finger, and gnashing of the teeth. By Words, By Speaking evil of any man, by censuring, by reviling, and reproaching, by whispering evil of others, and by wresting thier words. By Works, By Practising the hurt of others, by adding afflictions to the afflicted, by betraying of our friends unfaithfully, and by wronging those persons from whom we have received any good at all. Amaziah The Prophet saying, Have they made thee of the kings counsel. 2 Chro. 25. 16. Athenians Paul preaching unto them the Resurrection. Act. 17. Ezek. 25. Psal. 137. Lam. 1. 9. Chap. 3. 6●. Ammonites Gods sanctuary, saying, Ha, ha, being polluted. Babylonians Israelites and I●remiah Making them their ●ong and by-word, for which David called him blessed that their children dashed against stones. Psal. 123▪ ●. Children Elisha, calling him bald-head, they were by Bears destroyed. 2 King. 2. 1 Sam. 17. goliath David, disdaining him, notwithstanding he overcame him. Gaal Abimelech, saying, What is Abimelech that we should serve him? judge. 9. 28. Gen. 6. 2 Ki. 10. ●.& 9. 11. Cham Noah discovering his nakedness, he was cursed of him. Herod The wise men, not purposing what he said, they did the like by him. Matth. 2. Derided and mocked The Israelites The prophets prophesying, they were by the chaldeans slain. 2 Chron. 36. 16. Ezek. 11.& 1●.& 22. Chap. ●9. 49.& ●●. Jer. 23. 33. Is. 8. 18. Jer. 20. Psal. 106. 24. Gen. 21. 1 Ki. 21. I●●. 17. 15. Eze●. ●. 9. Ezek. 11. 15.& 1●. ●2.& 1●. 3. Mat. 27. Act. 2. Gen. 4. 24. Gen. 19. 2 Sam. 6. jer. 48. 26, 27. judge. 8. 1 Sā. 25. Act. ●. 1●. Matth. 19. 23. Gen. 6. 1 Sam. 14. judge. 16. Gen. 37. Act. 26. Act. 17. 18. ●9. 32. joh. 18. 38. Matth. 27. Luk. 16. Gods Word, calling it Gods burden, it fell heavy on thē. Isaiah& his children, making thē wonders among them. jeremiah, everlasting shane fell on them. The l●nd of Canaan, God permitted thē not to enter in. Ishmael Isaac; And jezebel Ahab, saying, Dost thou govern? &c. The Jews Christ, the Apostles and Disciples sent among them. Lamech Gods long-sufferance of Cain murdering. Lot, admonishing them to depart out of sodom. Michal David dancing before the Ark, she was made barren. Moab Israel, for which they were brought in derision. Succoth men Gideon asking relief of them, they were slain by him. Nabal David, saying, Who is David? that I should give him. Old world Noah building the Ark, till the flood took them. Philistines jonathan and Samson, many were by them slain. patriarches joseph, calling him the dreamer: famine punished them. Festus Paul▪ saying, much learning had made him mad. Paul, calling him a babbler in disputing with them. Pilate Christ Asking of him what truth was tauntingly. People Christ Scourging and crucifying him unjustly. Pharisees Christ For speaking against their covetousness used by thē. Derided and mocked Sarah Gods Promise, hearing that she should bear a son. Gen. 18. Nehem. 4. Gen. 19. Sanballat The Jews, going about to re-edify Jerusalem. Sodomites Gods long patience in suffering, till he had destroyed them. Sennacherib Jerusalem, and the holy One of Israel, for which four hundred fourscore and five thousand of his company 2 Kin. 19. were slain. Syrians God, calling him the God of the mountaines, not of the 1 King. 20. valleys, many were slain by the Israelites. Tyre Jerusalem, the Lord brought many nations on them. Ezek. 26. The wicked God, Saying, The Lord hideth his face, he will not see us, Prov. 1. ●5. Psal. 10. 11. Prov. ●4. 9. Isai. 22. 13. Ps. 73. 11. Psal. ●9. 7.& 94. 7. ●sa●. ●6. 12. 2 Pet. 3. 4. Prov. 14. 9. Chap. 10. 28. Psal. 10▪ 1●. making a mock of sin, and of Gods threatenings▪ saying, Let us eat and drink, for to morrow we shall die: as also, How doth God know it? Is there knowledge in the most High? and again, Come we will bring wine, and we will fill ourselves, &c. Not knowing the judgements that God hath prepared for them. read Prov. 17. 5. Chap. 30. 17. Psal. 37. 13. Psal. 59. 8. Prov. ●9. 8. sir. 27. 28. The Person That mocketh the poor, reproacheth him that made him, Pro▪ 17. 5 Prov. 1. 22. Chap. 3. 34. Isai. ●9. 20. Prov. ●4. 17, 18. Prov. 1. 16. Isai. ●8. 22. 2 Pet. 3. 4. Iude 18. Psal. 1. 1. Isai. ●9. ●●. sir. ●. 11. Ephes. 5. 4. And he that rejoiceth at destruction shall not be unpunished. And he that scorneth another, shall and scorned himself. And he that rejoiceth at the fall of his enemy, and is glad in heart when he slumbleth, the Lord when he seeth it will be angry, and turn his wrath upon him. There shall come in the last dayes mockers, which will walk after their lusts in Isai. 28. 22. u●god●y ways: Blessed then is he that sitteth not in the seat of the scornful: for sc●rners( saith the prophet by the mouth of the Lord) shall be rooted out, and consumed. Let not filthiness, neither foolish talking, neither jesting, which are not comely, be once name among you. read Psal. 80 6. Psal. 89. 50, 51. Lam. 1. 8▪ jer. 30. 17. Prov. 1. 22. Chap. 9. 12 Chap. 13. 1. Chap. 14. 6. Isai. 8. 18. jer. 18. 18. Chap. 21. 13. Isai. 28. 14, &c. Ezek▪ 11. 3, 15. jer. 20. 10. Derision and mocking used by God, and Godly men. Derided and mocked Saying, God Adam Behold▪ the man is become as one of us. Isai. 23. 16. Tyre. Gen. 3. 22. Babelbuilders Behold, the people is one, they cannot be stopped from doing what they have imagined. Gen. 11. 6. The Edomites Is wisdom no more in Teman? is counsel perished? Ezek. 38. 7. Gog. jer. 49. 7. Egyptians Take balm▪ O virgin, go up into Gilead. jer. 46. 11. The Israelites Come to Bethel and transgress, Where are thy gods, which did eat the fat of thy sacrifices? Amos 4. 4. Nah. 3. 4 Deut. 32. ●8. Psal. 59. 8. Amos 4. 4. where are those gods that thou hast made thee? let them arise if they can help thee. Deut. 32. 38. Cry to the gods which thou hast chosen to save judge. 10. 14. thee in thy 〈…〉 lation; when thou criest, let them that th●● hast gathered together deliver thee, &c. And again▪ Is there no balm in Gilead? Is there no physician there? Why then is not the health of my daughter, and of my jer. 8. 22. Ezek. 20. 39. people recovered? Idolater● Stand to your cause, bring forth the strong reasons, Isai. 41. 21.& 45. 20, 21. &c. Ch. 47. 1●. Isai. 57. 13. jer. 51. 8. b●ing forth your gods, and let them tell you what shall come hereafter, &c. The wicked When thou criest, let thy chosen heap deliver thee. Babylon Take balm for her pain, if so be she may be healed Elijah Baals prophets Cry aloud; for he is a God, either he talketh, or pursueth his enemies, or is in his journey, or it 1 Ki. 18. 23. may be he sleepeth, and must be awaked. Elisha The Syrians This is not the way, neither is this the town, 2 Kin. 3. 13. follow me, I will bring you to the man whom you seek. He being the man, they strike blind. 2 King. 6. Derided and mocked Saying Ezekiel The King of Tyre. Behold thou art wiser then Daniel, there is no Ezek. 28. 3, 12. secret that they can hid from thee: thy wisdom and understanding hath gotten the riches: Thou sealest up the sun and art full of wisdom joshuah The Israelites. If it seem evil to you to serve the Lord, josh. 24. 15▪ then choose you this day whom you will serve. joash The Midianits Will ye plead Baals cause? will you save him? judge. 6. 31. If he be a god, let him plead for himself against him that cast down his Altar. jephtah The Ammonites Would not ye possess that which Chemosh your judge. 11. 24. God giveth you to possess. The Egyptians Where are the wise▪ men that may tell thee what Isai. 19. 12. the Lord hath determined upon thee. Isaiah The B●blonians go to thy enchanters and witches, and see if they Isai. 47. 12. can help and strengthen thee. The Israelites behold all you kindle fire and are compassed about Isai. 50. 11. with sparkles, walk in the light of your fire, and in the sparks that you have kindled. Syrians Thy cords are loosed, therfore it cannot make Isai. 33. 23. fast the mast nor spread the sail. The men of Judah Let your Prophets in●reate the Lord of Hostes, jer. 27. 18. that the vessels which are left in the house of the Lord may not be carried ●o Babel. jeremiah Idolaters Where are now the gods that thou hast made jer. 2. 28. thee, bid them stand up and help thee in the time of this thy need. jer. 51. 8. The Edomites Oh daughter Edom be glad and rejoice, for the cup shall come unto thee also, thou shalt be Lam. 4. 21. drunken and discover thy nakedness. job his friends Indeed wisdom must needs die with you. job 12. 2. 1 King. 22. Michaiah King Ahab go up and prosper at Ramoth Gilead. The Preacher The young man Let thy heart ●heare thee in the dayes of thy Ecc. 11. 9. youth, follow the lusts of thine eyes, &c. But remember thou shalt come to judgement. Christ the Scribes fulfil ye the measure of your Father. I●h. 10. ●2. M●t. ●●. ●2 The Corinthians Y●e are full, ye are made rich, ye reign: And 1 Co 4. 8 C. 14 38 Gal 1. 6. Re. 22. ●. 2 ●● 12 13. 2 ●●. 1●. 7.& 11. 7▪ 1●. C 4 1●. again, If any and ignorant, let him be ignorant. Wicked men He that is unjust, let him be unjust still, and bee that is filthy, let him be filthy still. Nah. 3. 14. Eccl. 11. 9. The Lord Will laugh at the destruction of the wicked: He that dwelleth in Heaven Prov. 1. 26. Psal. 2. 4. Psal. 37. 12. Psal. 59. 7. job 2●. 1●. Psal. 52. 6, 7. shall laugh them to scorn, the Lord shall have them in derision: he hath seen that his day is come. The right●ous saw it and was glad, the innocent laughed them to scorn, saying: lo, this is the man that took not God for his strength. Use. To make the three good, and h●s fruit good, or else make the three evil, and his Mat. 12. 23. fruit evil: for the three is known by his ●ruit: read Obad ●. 8. ● Sam. 19. 17▪ Isai. 16. 1. judge. 16. 15. Isai. 48. 26 Psal. 55. 8. Luk. 16▪ 14. Psal 115. 4, 5. Isai 28. 9. Chap 46. 6. Chap. 40. 18.& 44. 12. 2 Cor. 4 12 Mat. 26 45. judge 5. 28, 29. Ezek. 38. 7. 2 Cor. 12. 13. Chap. 13. 7. Of Contention Discord and Emulation. DIscord is a Contention in words, whereby men strive, who shall show most courage, who shall get the victory, and who shall carry away the last word, no Prov. 13. 10. respect being had of ●quitie or truth: In this respect, crying and lifting up the voice in reasoning is condemned. Ephes. 4. 31. There are two kinds of Emulation The one spiritual. There are two kinds of Emulation The other carnal. spiritual When men strive to be like to them that excel in virtue, or to go beyond 1 Cor. 4. 12. them; and this God commands. carnal When men that excel in any thing grieve and repined that any should be equal unto them. Contentions are both lawful and sinful lawful 1. With the enemy foreign or domestical in just causes, as also at the bar with an adversary pleading. lawful 2. Also in disputation with an heretics opposing the truth, and in Schollers disputing for exercises in schools. sinful In respect of Matter 1. When men contend for things for which they Luk. 22. should not contend, as the Disciples of Christ did for primacy. sinful In respect of 2. When Contention is without forgiving, 1 Cor. 6. 7. sinful In respect of and Forbearing or suffering, and that in small and trifling things. sinful In respect of Manner 3. When men wilfully defend their own private causes, no regard being had whither they be right or wrong, true or false, and by this means they often oppugn truth, or justice, or both. Through Discord and Emulation Abraham and Lots Herdsmen debating together, caused Abraham and Lot to depart Gen. 13. one from the other. Apostles striven, who should be the greatest among them. Luk. 22. judge. 9. Act. 19. Gen. 31. judge. 12. Act. 6. Abimelech murdered his brethren to aspire to the kingdom. Demetrius complained against St Paul for his teaching. Esau hated Iac●b, for stealing from him the blessing. Ephramites termed the Gileadites to be runagates in Ephraim. The Grecians grudged against the Hebrewes, their widows being neglected. jacob hearing the sons of Laban complain, departed, whereupon he was by Gen. 31. Laban pursued. The Israelittes Made battle against the Benjamites, and slay many of them. judge. 20. 2 Sam. 19. The Israelittes joined against David with one Sheba, who therefore lost his head. The Israelittes Contended against Moses and Aaron, for which the Lord plagued Chap 20. Exodus 16. Numbers 21. joh. ●. 42. many of them. The Jews striven among themselves how Christ should come from Heaven, and how he could give his flesh to be eaten. Kain was very wrath, and his countenance fell down. Gen. 4. Num. 12.& 16 Exo. 17. josh. 9. Exod. 2. 11. konrah, Aaron and miriae spoken against Moses. Kings of the Heathens came to war against the Israelites. Moses seeing a man of Israel sl●ine by an Egyptian, slay the said Egyptian and hide him in the sand. Men circumcised, contended with the Apostle Peter for eating with the Gentiles Act. 11. Isa. 9. 21 being uncircumcised. Philistines stopped up the wels that were digged by Isaac. Gē. 26. Act. 14. Act. 15. Act. 23. 9 ● King 3 2 Sa. 20. 1. 2 Sam. 3. Cha. 4. The people of Iconia were by Pauls preaching divided. Paul and Barnab●● were one from the other sundered. Pharisees and Sadduces at Pauls crying out varied. One whore accused the other for the child murdered. Long war was betwixt the house of Saul and David. Warres were made by many, where many perished. murder have been by divers, divers times committed. Prov. 19. 13. It is a mans honour to rest from strife, which foolish questions engender: therfore Pro. 17. 14.& 27. 15. Prov. 13 3. 2 Tim. 2. 23. Prov▪ 26. 21. ● Tim. 14▪ T●●●●. 9. R●man●●●. ●5, 1 Cor. 1. 10▪ Gods servants must not strive. As coals are to burning c●ales; so is a co●tentio●● man to kindle strife. Give not heed to fables and Genealogies, which breed questions. The night is past, the day is come, walk not in strife and envying. Let there be no dissensions among you, speak ye all one thing. Use. We ought to do nothing that evil is by striving and contention, but leave the wrong done to us to the Lord, who will revenge the same; and if we will needs strive, let us follow our Saviours counsel: Strive to enter in at the straight Luk. 13. 24. Matth. 14. gate, for many will seek to enter in, and shall not be able to obtain the same. Of Peace and Concord. PEace is the Tranquilitie of the mind, being the Gift of God. Rom. 5. 1. There is a three-fold wicked, and a three-fold Godly Peace: 1. A defiled Peace, Which was and is among the devils, who agree together to persecute Christ, and his Matth. 12. ●4. Chap. 26. 31. Luk. 23. 12. members: such also was that among the Scribes and Pharisees, and between Pilate and Herod, to put Christ to death, and this is called a diabolical peace. 2. Wicked▪ A feigned Peace, Which was Absaloms to Amnon: Ioabs to 2 Sam. 13. Abner: Iudas to Christ: and Spaniards to us in the year of our Lord God, 1588. 3. A disordered Peace, Which is when the greater obey the less, as Heb. 9. 27. when death swayeth life: when the woman ruleth over the man: and Nature over Grace, &c. Godly: internal Peace, which is of Conscience between man and himself. external Peace, which is with the Creatures of the earth▪ eternal Peace, which is between God and man. internal Is a quietness and tranquilitie of mind, arising of a sense and apprehension Rom. 5. 1. of Reconciliation with God. 1. With the Creatures is fivefold: that is to say, Peace with Angels, for Col. 1. 2. man is redeemed by Christ, and by means of this Redemption, sinful man is reconciled to God and Angels. 2. With the Godly, who are made of one heart and one mind. Isai. 11. 9. 3. external With ourselves, and that is a conformity of the will and affections of Rom. 8. mans nature to the renewed mind. 4. In respect of our enemies: for the decree of God is, Touch not mine Prov. 16. 7. Rom. 8. 32. anoin●ed, and do my Prophets no harm. And again, All things turn to the good of them that love God. 5. With the beasts of the field: God makes a Covenant with them for Hos. 2. 18. Psal. 91. his people: The Creatures desire and wait▪ Thou shalt walk upon the Lion and asp, the young Lions and Dragons. eternal Between God and man in Heaven, is that, which eye hath not seen, neither 2 Cor. 12. 4▪ can enter into mans heart to understand. Peace was the Admonition given by Eliphaz to job to be at with the Lord, ilb 22. 21. Num. 6. 26. Gen. 4●. 24. Micah 4. 3. Gal. 6. 16. Mal. 2. 5. Zech. 6. 13. Rom. 12. 18. Isai. 66. 12. Isai. 26. 12. Isai. 57. 1●. Exod. 4. 18▪ Rom. 15. 13. Nab. 1. 15. Rom. 10. 15. 1 Sam. 1. 17. Hag. 2. 10. Isai. 60. 17. Blessing that the Priest used to bless with the people of God, and the issue to those that followed the Apostles rule, promised. Covenant everlasting made by God with Israels children: counsel foretold to be between the offices of Christs Priest-hood, and kingdom, and of Paul to be followed by the Romans. Extent that God made towards the Gentiles calling them. Favour of God, ordained to be given to all faithful men. Fruit of the lips, created by God for all godly men. Farewell of jethro given at the departing of him from Moses. fullness wished by Saint Paul in his Epistle to the Romans▪ Good Tidings That the Prophet foretold should come. Glad Tidings Brought by Christ Jesus unto man. Good success that Eli wished unto Hannah being troubled. Gift that the Lord to his last House to give promised. Government that the Lord for his Church had appointed. Peace was the Guide that Saint Paul willed the Colossians therewith to be ruled. Col. 3. 15. joh 5. 23. John 14. 27. 2 Cor. 13. 11. jer. 16. 5. Prov. 16. 17. Dan. 6 25. Job 5. 24. Act. 10. 36. Ephes. 2. 17. Prov. 3. 17. Matth. 10. 13. Rom. 2 10. Psal. ●2●. 7. The Return. 2 Sam. 19. 24. Col. 1. ●●. Isai. 39. 8. Iam. 3. 18. Gen. 4. Luk. 24. 36. Rev. 1. 4. 1 Sam. 10. 42. Psal. 4. 8. Luke 2. 29. L●k. ●9. 28. Luk. 214. Song of the Angels. Luke 19. 43. Psal. 120. 7. 2 Pet. 3. ●4. Isai. 32. 18. 1 Sam. 25. Jer. 29. 11.& 33. 6. 2 Thes. 3. 1●. Ephes. 2. 14. Luk. 1. 79. Heb. 12. 14. Isai. 32. 17. Rom. 8. 6. League ordained by God to be betwixt all Creatures and man. legacy given by Christ to his Apostles, when he left them. Life that Saint Paul wished the Corinthians to live in. mercy of God shewed to the Israelites when they served him. mark to know when God was pleased with the way of man. Multiplication that was wished to all Nations by Darius the king. Ornament given by God to the Tabernacle of the godly. Preaching of Christ and Apostles to men far off and nigh. Path of wisdom that Salomon wished men to walk in. Pay that the Apostles gave those that worthily received them. Promise made to Jews and Gentiles that were godly of them. Prayer that David made for the holy city Jerusalem. Reconciliation wrought by Christ of things in Earth and Heaven▪ Request that Hezekiah made might be in his dayes. Root wherein is sown the fruit of righteousness. Sermon preached first by God to Cain from Heaven. Salutation of Christ used to his Disciples after his Resurrection. Salutation of Saint John to the seven Churches in the Revelation. safety that jonathan unto David in his troubles wished. sleep that the Lord gave to rest in unto king David. Song of Simeon unto Christ, embracing him in his arms. Song of The people unto Christ, riding to Jerusalem. Salvation that Christ wished Jerusalem had known. Thing That David sought for, when his enemies sought for war. And that which the Elect should be found in( saith Peter.) Thankes that David gave to Abigail for her kindness shewed him. Thought and Treasure that the Lord had for Israel in captivity. Tranquilitie that Saint Paul wished to the Corinthians continually. Union wrought by Christ the mediator betwixt God and man. Way, spoken of by Zacharias the Priest, and Paul, for men to walk in▪ Work of Justice, quietness, and assurance for to come. wisdom of the Spirit( saith Paul) by which life is gotten. Word of Comfort spoken by Mordecai to the Jews. Esth. 9. 3. Gen. 43. 33. judge. 6. 23. Psal. 85. 8. Dan. 10. 19. Mark 5. 34. joh. 16. 33. joseph to the patriarches. The Lord unto Gideon. God unto his Saints and People. The Angel unto Daniel. Christ to many in the Gospel. Word of Paul As Prologue and Epilogue, Orient and Occident of all the Epistles written by him; and the So be it, or Amen of Elisha to the Prayer of Naaman. 2 King. 5. 19. Title given to God, Being called The God of Peace. Heb. 13. 20. Matth. 5. 9. Isai. 9. 6. Luke 2. 13. Rom. 10. 15. Gen. 34. 21. Prov. 12. 20. Ephes. 6. 15. Rom. 10. 15. Isai. 52. 7. joh. 1. 15. Luk. 10. 16. Heb. 7. 2. 1 Ki. 4. 20. Psal. 12●. 3, 7. Rom. 14. 7. Isai. 60. 17. Title given to Gods Children, Being called Children of Peace. Title given to Christ, Being called The Prince of Peace. Title given to Angels, Being called Singers of Peace. Title given to Apostles, Being called M●ssengers of Peace. Title given to Iacobs sons, Being called Men of Peace. Title given to The Just, Being called counsellors of Peace. Title given to The Elect, Being called sons of Peace. Title given to Gods Word, Being called Glad Tidings of Peace. Title given to Preachers, ambassadors of Peace. Title given to The new Testament, Being called The Gospel of Peace. Title given to Melchisedech& Salomon, Being called Kings of Peace. Title given to Jerusalem, Being called The city of Peace Title given to Gods kingdom, Being called The kingdom of Peace. Title given to ●●urches Officers, Being called Officers of Peace. Peace Is to be sought after, with the things that concern the same; because it Heb. 12. 14. Rom. 14. 19. 1 Cor. 7. 15. Ephes. 6. 16. Phil. 4. 7. is that whereunto God hath called those that are his. Which shall be to those that walk in Christ, the benefits whereof are very great▪ for that preserves our hearts and mindes in Christ, &c. and therefore above all things it is to be desited, &c. To get, preserve, and keep Peace Abraham Desired Lot that there might be no strife betwixt them, or betwixt their Herdsmen, because they were brethren. As also being the elder gave leave to him being the younger to Gen. 13. make choice of all the land before them. An Angel finding Hagar in the wilderness willed her to return, and to humble herself to Sarah her mistress. Gen. 16. Gen. 26. 1 Sam. 25. Abimelech desired there might be a Covenant betwixt him and Isaac. Abigail to pacify David against Nabal carried him a present. Benhadad Sent his servants with sackcloth about their ●oynes, and ropes about their necks to the King of Israel, thereby to make a 1 Kin. ●0. league with him, being before ●n battle with him. David having opportunity to sl●y Saul, being persuaded thereunto, spared 1 Sam. ●4. Chap. 26. him, always seeking to be at peace with him. Gibeonites pretended to come from a far country with old bottles, musty bread, &c. to make a league with Israel. josh. 9. jacob Departed from his fathers house seeing Esau displeased, and after sent him a Present, and meeting with him, bowed himself seven Gen. 33. times to the ground, and so was reconciled. joseph forgave his brethren, gave them corn, and willed them not to fall Gen. 45. out by the way in traveling. joab used a cunning woman to reconcile David and Absalom. 2 Sam. 14. Gen 31. Laba● desired jacob to make a Covenant of peace with him. The patriarchs sent to joseph, saying, their father commanded before his death, that they should say unto him, that he did pray him to forgive them, Gen. 50. 17. called themselves his servants, and falling down before him, he became in league with them. King Saul hearing wicked men speak ill of him, replied not to them. 1 Sam. 10. Shimei returned to David the first of that house to meet him, and falling down before him, was reconciled unto him. 2 Sam. 19. Tyre and Sidon Inhabitants came with one accord unto Herod, and persuaded Blastus his chamberlain to speak for them, and that because Act. 12. 20. their country was nourished by his land. Divers Kings gave to their enemies the treasures of the Lords house. 2 King. 16. 1 King. ●5. 2▪ King. 12. Gen. 4. The Lord From Heaven called to Cain being wrath with Abel, admonishing him: denied David to build the Temple, because of 1 Chron. 28. his bloodshedding, commanded it to be done in the time of Deut. 20. 10. peace, in the dayes of Salomon; and willed the Israelites to J●r. 29. 7. offer peace to all cities before they did smite them: And Ephes. 2▪ 14. above all sent his one only Son to die for man, to make peace between himself and man. Use. 1. Seeing Peace is so great a jewel, yea such as David accounted beyond all Psal. 4. 7. Psal. 73. 24. Phil. 4. 7. Isai. 48. 22. other gifts: And se●ing that the peace of a good Conscience is a guard to keep our hearts and mindes in Christ, our duty should be above all things to seek for it, and that because true happiness, which all men desire after, consisteth in Peace, being founded in Grace. 2. Seeing there is no peace to the wicked, but when they say peace, then comes Isai. 58. 21. 1 Thes. 5 23. Psal. 7●. Psal▪ ●4 ●4. Jer. 29. 7. 2 Cor. 13. 1●. destruction, so tha● their prosperity ends but in perdition, we should strive the more to get that peace that passeth all understanding, that are elected to Salvation. Eschew evil, and do good, seek peace, and ensue it. Live in peace, and the God of peace shall be with you. envy and Hatred. envy is the rotting of the bones, and shortening of the life of a man, being a Prov. 14. 30. Job 5. 2. 1 Tim. 6. 4. Ecclus. 30. 24. grief taken at the good of another man, and an irksomeness conceived at another mans felicity, I mean, at one greater then himself, because he cannot be equal unto him; and at his inferior, because he thinks he would be equal unto him; and at all his equals, because their degree and state do jump with his. So King Saul envied David, and the Pharisees Christ, who laid wait for their 1 Sam. 18. Joh. 11. 53. Prov. 21. 10. Chap. 2●. 2. Chap. 24. 17. lives: for so cruel a beast is this envy that it cannot abide, nor any way brook those men whom he envieth. His soul is always wishing evil, his heart imagineth nothing but hurt, his lips talk mischief, and his joy is at the fall of his enemy: His path is malice, his eye is vexed at Gods goodness, his hands of desolation would undo Gods mercies, other mens health ●● his sickness, others wealth his woe and heaviness. This was the devils sin; and therefore of all sir. 30. 14. Mark 11. ●5. 1 Cor. 11. 27. ● joh. 3. 13, 15. Prov. 27. 4. it should be avoided, and that also for other reasons, in that his prayers are abominable that is possessed with envy, because he asketh mercy, and forgiveth not. again he profaneth the Lords Supper, because he receiveth it unworthily; and lastly, he is but a manslayer, if he live in envy, not in charity. Envied Absalom Amnon for his incest committed with Thamar. 2 Sam. 14. 2 Sam. 17. 1 Ki. 22. 1 Ki. 21. Gen. 49. 23. Gen. 27. 1 Sā. 17. Exod. 1. Psal. 109. 3. Luke 15. judge. 11. Gen. 46. Lu●. 23. 12. mat. 21. Joh. 11. Act. 13. 45. Ch. 17. Gen. 4. Gen. 31. Act. 6. 9. Ch. 7. Dan. 6. Gen. ●6. Act. ●. 17. 1 Sam. 18. Psal. 73. 3. Ezek. 35. 5. Gen. 3. Ahithophel Hushai, because his counsel was esteemed for better. Ahab Michaiah Because he prophesied not good unto him. Elijah And that because he reproved him. Esau jacob, because he had gotten the blessing from him. Eliah David his brother, because of his words against the Philistine. Egyptians Israelites, because they did so increase among them. The Elder The prodigal, because his father had entertained him. The Elders Iephthab, forcing him to fly his country from them. Hagar Sarah her mistress, because that she was barren. Herod Pilate, but to crucify Christ became friends with him. High Priests Christ for the peoples Hosanna sung, and miracles done. Jews Paul and Iason; the one for preaching, the other for entertaining. Psal. 106. 41. mat. ●7. 18. Joh. 3. 12. Cain Abel, which moved him for to murder him. jacob, and that moved him to depart from them. Libertines Steven, because they could not resist his wisdom. Princes Daniel, till they had him in the Lions den. Philistines Isaac, because of the wealth that he had gotten. Sadduces The Apostles, because of the gifts that God had given them. Saul David, because of the praise the women gave him. Mount Seir The Israelites, for which the Lord brought plagues upon thē▪ Satan Adam and Eve, for the happiness he saw them in▪ The Apostles disdained at the request made by james and John. mat. 20. Luk. 9. 49. Gen. 29. Numb. 11. Gen. 37. The Apostles envied at the men that cast out devils in Christs Name. jacob despised Leah the elder: Rachel being of him more loved. Ioshua envied El●ad and Medad, because they prophesied. Joh. 7. 7.& 15. 18. 24. 25.& 17. 14. Act. 7. 9. The patriarchs envied joseph for his dream, because he was by jacob loved. The Person That hateth will counterfeit with his lips, but in his heart he layeth up Ia●. 3. 14. 1 I●h. 2. 9, 11. Chap. ●. 13, 1●. Prov. 10. 12.& 16. ●4. deceit, his hatred is covered by the deceit of him, but the malice thereof is discovered in the Congregation: He is in darkness, and walketh 1 Joh. 2. ●1. Psal. ●4. ●2. Prov. 24. ●0. 1 Joh. 3. 15. in darkness, not knowing where he goeth, his Candle shall be put out, and posterity cut off: He is a Manslayer, and no such shall have eternal life. Hatred stirreth up contention: Anger is cruel, wrath is raging, but who can Prov. 10. 12. Chap. 27. 4. Chap. 1●. 30. Iam. 3. 16. G●●. 5. 21. Rom. 1. 29. sir. 27. 3●. Prov. 2●. 1, 2. stand before envy? who, where she is with strife, there is sedition, and all manner of evil works, the end whereof is eternal death, for that no envious person shall inherit( saith the Apostle) Gods kingdom in Heaven. The remedy of envy. 1. Consider that all envious persons are like unto the devil, whom our good works do exceedingly afflict. 2. think how envy burneth the heart, drieth the flesh, tortureth the understanding, disturbeth the peace of Conscience, maketh all the dayes of life sorrowful and heavy, and banisheth all tranquilitie and joy from the heart of man; whereas on the contrary, spiritual things, if thou get them, are not diminished though many possess them. 3. Remember the saying of Salomon, do not thou through envy rejoice at the Prov. 24. 17. Chap. 26. 27. fall of thine enemy: Let not thy heart be glad when he stumbleth, lest the Lord when he seeth it be angry, and turn his wrath from him unto thee. Follow the Apostles counsel, Lay aside all malice, guile, hypocrisy, envy, and 1 Pet. 2. 1. 1 Pet. 4. 8. Rom. 9. 21. Chap. 1. 24. Isai. 53. Rom. 8. Ecclus. 25. 12. Rom. 9. 13. Psal. 5. 6. evil speaking: and let love possess you without dissimulation. 1 Joh. 2. 11. The Lord hateth iniquity: He hated the reprobate before he was created, after his creation sinning, and sin itself committed by him, or any elected one. He hateth a poor man proud, a rich man a liar, and an old man adulterous; which hatred in him is Gods Hatred 1. The denial of his Love. All which are excellent virtues in him. 2. The decree of punishment. All which are excellent virtues in him. 3. His displeasure and detestation. All which are excellent virtues in him. Love mercy and charity. LOve is a passion of the mind, whereby we are so affencted towards any man, as that forgetting ourselves we are wholly carried towards him, for that it transformeth the lover into the thing loved, and so joineth them together, as that the lovers mind may be truly said to be there where his love is. And hence ariseth a sympathy and feeling, by which they are mutually affectionated one with an others good or evil. Love seeketh, not her own. 1 Cor. 13. 5. mercy in man is a certain compassion of anothers misery in our heart, by which we are compelled to help if we can. And it is called mercy, for that it makes the heart miserable, grieving for anothers evil, according to the Poets saying, Ha●● ignara mali miseris succurrere disco: Virgil. The troubles of mine own have learned me, To pity others that in trouble bee. Through Love, mercy, and charity Abraham entertained three Angels in stead of men, inviting them. Gen. 18. Act. 2. 44. 1 Sā. 25.& 4. 36. 2 Sā. 3.& 11. 29. Ruth 2. 2 Sam. 17.& 19 Act. 28. Matth. 14. Act. 10. 31. 2 Sam. 9. 1 Sam. 22. 1 Sam. 30.& 26. 2 Sam. 19. Act. 11. Act. 9. 2 King. 6. Gen. 29. job 31.& 30. 15. Act. 17. 1 Sam. 18. Act. 4. 1 Sam. 14. Matth. 27. 1 Sam. 22. Gen. 19. Abigail relieved David, Nabal her churlish husband refusing. Abner sent to David to make a Covenant of Peace with him. Boaz suffered Ruth to glean in his field ears of corn. Barzillai relieved David with others flying from Absalom. Barbarians entertained Paul with others coming from the Seas. Christ fed the multitude, and healed all kind of diseases. Cornelius gave alms abundantly, praising God always. David Entertained Mephibosheth Ionathans son, Abiathar Abimelech the Priests son: Sent a blessing to his friends of the spoils taken from his enemies: spared Sauls life, having opportunity to slay him, and forgave Shimei cursing him. The Disciples according to their ability sent relief to their brethren, Dorcas gave alms to many, being dead was raised again. Elisha entertained the Syrians, being sent to take him. jacob served Laban seven yeers for his daughter. job entertained into his house many a stranger. Iason entertained Paul and Silas, and other of the brethren. jonathan was knit to David in Love, passing the love of women. joses sold his possessions, and gave it the Apostles to help them. Ionathans Armour-bearers heart was with jonathan. joseph begged the body of Christ to bury him. The King of Moab entertained Davids parents in house with him. Just Lot entertained Angels in stead of men, and proffered his daughters to the wicked Sodomites to free them. Lydia entertained Paul and Silas, constraining them, &c. Act. 16. 1 Sam. 18. 4. Exod. 32. Chap. 2. Heb. 11. 25. judge. 19. Rom. 15. ●●. 2 Cor. 8. 10. Mark 2. Mark 14. Nehem. 2. 1 King. 18. 1 Tim. 1. Gen. 45. Exod. 2. 6. Rom. 9. Philem. 1. Phil. 4. Rom. 16. josh. 2. Ruth 1. 2 King. 4. Luk. 10. 33. Act. 10. Act. 7. 1 King. 17. Luk. 21. 3. Luk. 8. 1 Joh. 3. ●2. Psa. 112. 4. 5. 〈◇〉 2●. 〈◇〉 jonathan gave David the rob and Garment that covered him. Moses prayed to God to blot him out of the book of life, rather then to destroy the people of Israel together: As also made choice to suffer affliction with his brethren, rather then to be called the son of Pharaohs daughter. A man of Gibeah entertained a Levite and his wife to lodge with him. The men of Macedonia made a Collection for the poor at Jerusalem. four men carried the palsi●-man to Christ, who healed him. Magdalene gave Christ a box of ointment, prized at a great sum. Nehemiah used means to divers for building the walls of Jerusalem. Obadiah relieved one hundred Prophets of God, being fed by him. Onesiphorus refreshed Paul often, for which he commended him. Pharaoh commanded joseph to give corn to his brethren. Pharaohs daughter took up Moses out of the water, and nursed him. Paul Wished himself separated from Christ for his brethren. As also wrote to Philemon to receive his servant again. The Philippians communicated unto Paul, sending to him often. Phebe gave hospitality to Paul and other brethren. Rahab●id enemy's spies, the king of Jericho sending for them. Ruth forsook her own country, to live with Israels children. The Shunami●e built a Chamber for Elisha, to entertain him. The samaritan had compassion on the wounded man. Simon entertained Peter in his house to lodge with him. Steven prayed for the men that stoned him kneeling. One widow Relieved Elijah in the famine, being in penury. The other cast all that she had into the treasury. The women healed by Christ of their infirmities, ministered unto him again Luk. 19. 8. o●t of their substances. Love Is the fruit of the Spirit, the bond of perfection, the fulfilling of the Gal. 5. 22. Chap. 3. 14. Rom. 13. 10. 1 Cor. 6. 14. 1 Tim. 1. 5. 1 Joh. 4. 7. 1 Co●. 8. 1. 1 Pet. 4. 8. Ephes. 3. 17. Prov. 10. 12. 1 Cor. 8. 1. 1 Cor. 13. 4. 1 Cor. 1. 8. 1 joh. 4. 8. 18. Rom. 13. 10. Psal. 16. 3. Prov. 10. 12. Law, the way to do all things in, and the end of the Commandement, Prov. 10. 12. being out of a pure heart, a good Conscience, and faith unfeigned: it cometh of God, so that he that loveth is born of God; it edifieth, covereth the multitude of sins, excelleth faith and hope, doth not evil to his neighbour, boaiteth not itself, neither is puffed up, doth no uncomely thing, neither seeketh her own things, edifieth, and is not provoked to anger, neither thinketh any evil, suffereth all things, and endureth all things, is without fear, and never falleth away, though prophesying be abolished, or tongues cease, or knowledge vanish away: and is a clear, near, and sociable way. 1 Cor. 13. 5. Heb. 10. 24. 1 Pet. 4. 8. 1 Joh. 4. 20. All things work to the best to them that love God: and all things done without Rom. 8. 18. 1 Cor. 1. 13. Matth. 22. 37. Num. 13. 9.& 13. 8. Gal. ●. 14. 1 Pet. 4. 5. 1 Cor. 14. 1. Love are nothing, because they are not done acceptable to God: All the Law and the Prophets are fulfilled in this word, namely, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy soul, heart, and mind, and thy neighbour as thyself. It is a good thing, saith the Apostle, to love earnestly always in a good thing. Use. 1. This should teach us to love one another with a pure heart, fervently, in 1 Pet. 1. 22. Chap. 4. 8. 1 joh. 2. 10. Col. 3. 14. dead, not only in word and tongue, but with love without dissimulation: for he Rom. 13. 8. 1 Cor. 16. 14. 1 Joh. 3. 17. that loveth his brother abideth in the light, and there is no occasion of evil in him: Above all things then put on Love which is the bond of perfection. 2. For mercy, know that the man that hath mercy on the poor lendeth to Pro. 19. 17. Levit. mat. 5. 7. 25. 35. Pro. 11. 25. 2 Cor. 9. 6 Rom. 12. 8. Matth. 5. 1 Cor. 16. 14. the Lord, who will recompense him that which he hath given: For the liberal person shall have plenty, and he that watereth shall have rain: Blessed is the merciful, for he shall( saith Christ) obtain mercy. Let all your things, saith St Paul, be done in charity. Use. 1. If none shall obtain mercy, but such as show mercy; how shall those be Rom. 12. 8. Prov. 19. 17. Chap. 28. 27. condemned who at their gates have divinity, no humanity; wholesome counsel, no wholesome food; exhortation, but no compassion; Scripture against begging, but no bread against famishing: The bread of the sanctuary is common with Iam. 2. 16. them, not the bread of the Butterie: They wish something, but they do nothing: They have open mouths, but shut hearts; soft words, but hard bowels; Exhortation, Col. ●. 12. Eccl. 11. 1. 1 Pet. 4. 9, 10. but no compassion; opposing works to words, verity to vanity, and verbal compliments to real implements. 2. learn to be merciful as your heavenly Father is merciful. Luk. 6. 36. Heb. 6. 10. Isai. 58. 10. read Rom. 13. 8. Chap. 12. 8, 10, Heb. 13. 1. joh. 3. 18. Ephes. 4. 2. Chap. 5. 2. 1 Cor. 16. 14. Psal. ●●2. 4. Levit. 19. ●, 10. Chap. 23. 22. Deut. 15. 7, 8. Ch. 24. 19, 20. sir. 4. 31. Prov. 15. 17. Cant. 8. 6, 7. sir. 17. 22. Cant. 3. 10. Prov. 11. 17. james 1. 19. Prov. 14. 21. 1 Pet. 4. 9. Deut. 24. 19. Luk. 11. 41. Chap. 16. 9. Prov. 3. 28. Ch. 11. 17. Levit. 25. 35. Tit. 3. 8. Isai. 58. 6, &c. Eccl. 11. 3. 1 Pet. 4. 10. Of Patience. PAtience is a passive Obedience, or the Obedience of the cross, which is a fruit and Grace of Gods holy Spirit, arising from the true knowledge of God and of ourselves, as also from a lively faith, affiance, hope, and unfeigned love of God, whereby we bear our cross imposed upon us by God quietly, constantly, and willingly, bringing forth experience, which preserveth us by Gods providence, tempe●ateth anger, bridleth the tongue, governeth the mind, keepeth Gal. 5. 12. Peace, breaketh the violence of lust, assuageth the swelling of pride, and cherisheth the penury of the poor; And is engraven in us by the finger of Gods holy Spirit, being an Image of that infinite Patience which is in his own most perfect nature, who suffered all wrongs and injuries, which we offer against him and against his Prophets. Patiently The Apostles being imprisoned and beaten by the Jews took the same, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer for Christ his Name. Act. 5. 41. David being persecuted by Saul endured the same, who having opportunity to slay him,( seeking to take his life away) would not lay his hands upon 1 Sam. 24. Chap. 26. 9. him, and being driven out of his kingdom by his son Absalom, willed Zadok the Priest to inquire of the Lord for him, saying, If the Lord say he hath no delight in me, Behold, here I am, let him do to me, as seemeth good unto him. And being cursed of Shimei, and persuaded by Abishai 2 Sam. 15. to slay him, said, It may be the Lord hath bid him curse, and it may be the Lord will do me good for his cur●ing: My son seeketh to take my 2 Sam. 16. life from me, how much more then may this son of jemini? Eli Being told by Samuel what plagues the Lord would bring upon his sons and his posterity, answered, It is the Lord, let him do what 1 Sam. 3. seemeth him good. Elisha suffered the men of Syria sent to take him, without revenging himself on them, yea so as he entertained them. 2 King. 6. Gideon Answered the men of Ephrai● speaking roughly unto him, saying, Why hast thou served us thus, that thou calledst us not,& c? What judge. 8. 3. have I now done in comparison of you? What was I able to do in comparison of you? and having thus spoken unto them, their hearts abated towards him. Hezekiah Being told by the Prophet that all the Treasures that were in his house, together with the sons and daughters that should 2 King. 20. proceed of him, should be carried into Babel, said, The word of the Lord which thou hast spoken is good: Shall it not be good? Isaac Suffered his Father going about to sacrifice him, and great was Abrahams Gen. 22. patience in traveling three dayes journey for to sacrifice him. joseph behaved himself towards his b●ethren selling him, &c. in that he relieved them, confessing that nothing was done to him, but what God Gen. 37. had appointed to be done: and being wrongfully imprisoned, never murmured. Chap. 45. Iehoshaphar Being compassed with his enemies called on God, saying, O our God, wilt thou not judge them,& c? we wot not what to do, 2 Chron. 20. but our eyes be towards thee. job Having all that he had taken from him, said, The Lord giveth, and the Lord taketh, blessed be the Name of the Lord, &c. and being willed job 1.& 2. by his wife to curse God and die, said, Shall we receive good, and not evil of God? The Israelites Being oppressed by the Ammonites, said, Lord, we have sinned, do thou unto us whatsoever seemeth good unto thee, deliver us judge. 10. onely we pray thee this day. And being by Rabshakeh sent against Jerns●lem threatened, they were silent. 2 King. 18. jer. 10. 19. jer. 26. 11. Iam. 3 24. Exod. 5. 10. Num. 1●.& 16. jeremiah Being judged worthy to die for prophesying against the city, said, As for me, I am in your hands, do with me as you think right among yourselves. Moses endured the murmuring of the Israelites and miriae, praying for Heb. 11. 25. them: and konrah by mildly answering them. Mephiboshet● Hearing David to give his land to his servant Ziba to be di●●ded between them, and that without just cause, said, Let 2 Sam. 19. 30. him take all, forasmuch as my lord the King is come in peace. Paul and Barnabas Being imprisoned took the same, singing P●almes, and great was Act. 16. 5. Pauls patience in all his sufferings, confessing that his affliction was not worthy of the least of the joys of Heaven. 2 Cor. 11. King Saul Hearing wicked men to say, after he was anointed King, How shall he save us? despising him, bringing no presents to him 1 Sam. 10. 27. as others did that came to him, held his tongue without replying to them. Shadrach With his fellowes being threatened to be cast into the fiery furnace, answered, God whom we serve is able to deliver us, &c. Dan. 3. but if he will not, we will not serve thy gods, O nabuchadnezzar. Steven being stoned, kneeled down, praying for them that stoned him, saying, Lord, lay not this sin to their charge. Act. 7. Eleazarus in his torment, said, I am scourged, and suffer these sore pains of my body: but in my mind, I suffer them for my Religion gladly. 2 Mach. 6. 28. The seven Brethren with their Mother suffered all their torments with 2 Ma●. 7. 7. Heb. 11. 35. 36. cheerfulness, one after the other. Mauritius the Emperour Seeing his children and wife cruelly slain one after another Functiu●. charon. Osiander. Melanct. Loc. come. before his eyes by the Tyrant Phocas, himself being to act his part in the same tragedy, me●kly uttered these words, justus es Domine,& justum judicium tuum: Righteous art thou, O Lord, and just is thy judgement. 1 Pet. 2. 19. add to it 1 Pet. ●. 19. 20, 21. Eccl. 7. 8. Luk. 21. 19. Rom. 8. 28. sir. 1. 23. Chap. 2. 4, 5, 14. Prov. 14. 29. Heb. 10. 35. james 7. 5. Heb. 12. 1. 1 Pet. 2. 21. Rom. 2. 7. The Lord waited for The Ninevites forty dayes, by Ionahs preaching to them. Jonah 2 Dan. 4. 28. Luk. 13. 7. Psal. ●●. 10. Josephus Gen 6. G●●. 15. 13. J●sh. 12. G●n. 15. Exod. 4. Gen. 4. Revel. 2. 21. Rō. 9. 22. sir. 18. 1● 1 P●●. 2. 3. 1 P●t. 3. 20. Luk. 8. 7. Act. 14. 16& 17. ●0. 2 P●t. 3. 9, 15. 2 C●ron. 30. 16. Dan. 11. ●6 R●●. 10. 21 A●●● 2. 1● Psa. 50. 16. Is●i. 42. 14.& 43 24. I●●●● 5. 7. I●●i. 4●. 24. Nebucha●nezzar one year, To see if he would return. His V●eyard three yeeres, To see if it would increase. The Israelites forty yeeres, In the wilderness proving them. The Jews forty yeeres, Ere he destroyed Jerusalem. The old world 120. yeeres, Before he brought the flood on them. The Egyptians 400. yeeres, Oppressing the Israelites The Amo●ites till their sins were at full. Pharaoh a long time, proving him by plagues often. Cain's amendment, by preaching from heaven to him. 1 Pet 3. 20. Iezebels conversion, by giving her a space to turn to him. And suffereth the vessels of wrath ordained to destruction. And standeth now knocking, if any will open unto him. Revel. 3. 20. Amos 2. 13. And is as a Cart pressed with mans iniquity and sin. God is called the God of Patience: possess then your souls in Patience: be patient towards all men, bearing with weak men. Luk. 21. 19. Rom. 15. ●. Chap. 2. 4. 1 Thes. 5. 14. read Prov. 16. 32. Luk. 21. 19. Isai. 48. 9. jer. 51. 6. Mal. 7. 18, 19. 1 joh. 1. 9. Rom. 2. 4, 5. sir. 2. 12. Eccl. 7. 8. Prov. 23. 17, 18. Iam. 5. 11. Isai. 26. 20. Gal. 6. 2. 1 Pet. 2. 19. Disobedience IS the contemning and neglect of doing of just and lawful Commandements given by God and man: and is called by Samuel the sin of witchcraft, &c. 1 Sam. 15. 23. Disobediently Adam took the forbidden fruit: Achan the thing accursed. Gen. ●. josh. 7. 1 Ki. 22. 2 Sa. 16. judge. 20. Abah made warres: Adonijah and Absalom aspired. Balaam went to Balak: The Benjamites the malefactours detained. Esau took the daughters of Canaan: Eli's sons the flesh offered. Gen. 16. 1 Sa. 2. Exod. 22. Jon. 1. 11. 1 King. 13. Gen. 4. Israelites idols worshipped: jonah towards Tarshish fled. I●rohoam sacrificed: Cain slay Abel being forewarned. Lepers published Christ being cleansed, contrary to his direction. Mark 1. Gen. 19. 1 Ki. 20. Exo. 4. Numb. 20. Lots wi●e looked back: Lots sons in law refused his admonition. The man refused to strike the Prophet: Moses omitted circumcision. Moses and Aaron sanctified not the Lord by their unbelieving. Nadah, Ab●hu, Saul, Uzziah, and many others sinned. Nebuchad●ezzar continued in his sin, contrary to that he was willed. Dan. 4. Exod. 4.& 5. 1 King. 13. Esth. 1. Pharaoh detained the Israelites: the prophet seduced returned. Queen Vas●hi refused to come to the king: she was therefore divorced. Reh●boam hearkned not to the counsel of old men: Samson heard a woman. 1 Kin. 12. judge. 16. 1 S●m●. 15. 1 King. 11. Jer. 38. Saul spared Agag: Solomon took outlandish women. Zedekiah rebelled contrary to the Covenant made by him. The wrath of the Lord shall fall upon the children of disobedience Col. 3. 6. jer. 1●. 3. Cursed is he that is not obedient to Gods Covenant: and many are the curses pronounced by God against disobedient persons. Deut. ●8. Deut. 17. 1●. Deut. 21. 18. The man that obeyeth not the Priest and the Judge shall die. The son that disobeyeth his father shall be stoned to death. Use. To obey is better then sacrifice: and to harken, then the fat of rams. 1 Sam. 15. 22. 1 Pet. 4. 17. Obedience. OBedience is two-fold: the one voluntary, the other Constrained. voluntary: When the Creature doth Gods Command without compulsion. This Adam did before his fall, and all holy Ones do that are justified and sanctified( in part in this life) by the Grace of God assisting them. Constrained: When the Creature is made to obey, will he, nill he, like to Satans obedience after that Christ had rebuked him: as also rebels obedience, who Matth. 4. being attached, and arraigned for their treasons, are made to obey in their sufferings. Obedience to man is the keeping of the lawful Commands of our superiors Col. 3. 23. 1 Pet. 2. ●3. and Rulers, and this is to be done in the Lord. Obediently, as God commanded, Abraham offered his son: Aaron did the things belonging to him. Gen. 2●. L●vit. 8. 3●. Exod. 37. 1. G●n. 6. Num. 14. 1 Ki. 2. Ez●k. 3. ●. 1 King. ●5. Exo. 39 2. 2 Ki. 10. Jon. 3. judge. 7. Gen. 28.& 31. josh. 7.& 8. Exod. 40. 16. A●●. 9. ●ha. 10. Ch. 9. 1 Ki. 5. 1 Sam. 10. M●tth. 2. A●●. 9. 29. Bezal●el made the ark of God: Noah his ark with all things therein▪ Caleb behaved himself among the people: Elijah and Elisha. Ezekiel: And David in every thing( save only in the matter of Uriah.) Israelites did in many things: jehu did in destroying Ah●bs posterity. jonah went to Nineveh: Gideon sent away the most part of his army. Isaac went to Bethel: ● jacob returned from Laban. Ioshua circumcised the people, and found out Achan. Moses did in all things among the people: Paul as Christ will●d. Peter went unto Cornelius: Ananias unto St Paul blinded. Salomo● builded the Temple: Samuel anointed king Saul. The wise men returned another way: not to King Herod at all. Obediently obeied Abrahams Abraham. Gen. 24. Servant Ahab Elijah. 1 Kin. 18. Barak Deborah. judge. 4. Bathsheba Nathan. 1 King. 1. Cushai joab 2 Sam. 18. Captains jehoiada. 1 King. 11. David his father 1 Sam. 17. Disciples Christ. Matth. 4. Hushdi David. 2 Sam. 15. Hezekiah Isaiah. 2 Ki. 20. Isaac Abraham. Gen. 22. jacob Isaac. Gen. ●8. joseph jacob. Gen. 37. joseph Augustus. Luk. 2. 5. Israelits Moses. Exod. 13. Judges Moses. Num. 25. Ioshua Moses. josh. 8. jesse Saul. 1 Sam. 16. joash Elisha. 2 King. 13. joseph th' Angel Matth. 1. John Christ. Matth. 3. Jews Ezra. Ezra 10. Kenites Saul. 1 Sam. 15. And obeied Levites Moses. Exod. 32. Moses Iethr●. Exod. 18. sick men Christ. Matth. 9. Blind men Christ. job. 9. Naaman Elisha. 2 King. 5. Obadiah Elijah. 1 King. ●8. patriarches jacob. Gen. 42. People Elijah. 1 King. 18. Philippian● The Lord. Phil. 2. 12. Rebekah Isaac. Gen. 26. 9. Ruth Naomi. Ruth 2. Rechabits Their Father. jer. 35. The Spies Moses. Numb. 13. Sarah Abraham. Gen. 20. Samaria jehu. 2 Kin. 10. Shepherds Angels. Luk. 2. Souldiers The Centurion and Matth. 8. Souldiers Captain. Act. 23. Tamar Her Father. 2 Sam. 13. Tatnai The Captain. Ezra 6. One widow Elijah. 1 King. 5. Another Elisha. 2 King. 4. Christ His Father. Phil. 2. Rom. 5. 19. Who albeit he were the Son of God, obeied God in all his sufferings, Heb. 5. 8. Phil. 2. 8. 1 Pet. 2. 13. humbling himself so as he became obedient unto the death of the cross. Obedient Persons Shall eat the good things of the land, they shall end their dayes in Isai. 1. 19. Deut. 11. 27. job 36. 11, 12. prosperity, and yeeres in pleasure: but they that obey not, shall pass by the sword, and perish without knowledge. The mouth of God hath spoken it. read Rom. 5. 19. Exod. 20. 12. Deut. ●. 16. Heb. 5. 8. Act. 4▪ 19. Chap. 5. 29▪ 32. Luk. 2. 5. Ephes. 5. 22. Col. 3. 18, 20. Chap. 4. 1. Prov. 4. 1. Rom. 13. 1. Ingratitude and unthankfulness. INgratitude is a forgetfulness of good received, either from God, or Man; which towards God was first found in Adam and Eve, who being created after Gods own likeness, shewed themselves ingratefull for the same by eating the forbidden fruit: and so the Example of▪ Adam and Eve are imitated of us, who forget Gods exceeding Love, who spared not his only begotten Son, but gave him even to the shameful death for our Salvation. Ingratitude of man to man is forgetfulness of good turns received: Such is Childrens towards Parents, Scholars towards their Teachers, &c. This sin was counted so horrible a thing among the Persians for benefits received, as that such persons as were found to be ingratefull, were not counted worthy to live. Ingratefully Rewarded God, Who for all the benefits bestowed upon them, notwithstanding Gen. 3. kept not one Commandement given. Amaziah God, Who having of his enemies victory, fell to idolatry. 2 King. 25. 1 King. 16. 2 Chron: 32. 1 King. 14. 2 Chron. 35. Nū. 11. Ps. 78. Ezek. 16. 8. Isai. 1. 3. Gen. 4. Gen. 19. Gen. 9. 2 Sā. 15 Citizens. Ecc. 9. ●. 2 Sam. 14. 1 King. 22. 1 King. 1. 2 Cor. 12. 15. 2 Sam. 11. 2 Sam. 16. Gen. 31. 38.& 46. 2 King. 6. 2 Chron. 24. Exod. 5. 21. Chap. 6. 1. Chap. 7. Ch. 16. Baasha God, Who being exalted, followed the ways of jeroboam. Hezekiah God, Who rendered not according to that bestowed on him. jeroboam God, Who being made Prince, did evil above all before him. josiah God, Who freed of plagues, made war without him. The Israelites God, Who for all the favours shewed them daily sinned against him, so that he complained, that the ox and ass knew their owners, they not him. Cain God, Who being heir of the whole world was not pleased. Lot God, Who committed incest, being from sodom delivered. Noah God, Who was drunken, being in the Ark preserved. Absalom David, who being pardonned of murder rebelled against him. joab▪ who reconciling him to his father, burnt his corn. Ahab Michaiah, who doing Gods message to him, imprisoned him. Abiathar David, who protecting him, committed treason against him. Corinthians Paul, who the more he loved, the less was he loved again. David Uriah, who being faithful to him, caused him to be slain. jonathan, by giving Mephibosheths land to Ziba from him. jacob Isaac: And joseph jacob, staying twenty yeeres from him. jehoram Elisha, who being friendly to him; yet he sought to slay him. jehoash jehoiada, who settling him in his kingdom, slay his son. The Israelits Moses and Aaron who Conducting them, and often by their prayers turning Gods wrath from them, yet they continually murmured at them. The Jews Christ, who coming to redeem them, crucified him. Act. 7. ●2. Prophets and Apostles, by persecuting and murdering them. 2 Sam. ●0. Gen 30. Gen. ●9. David, who sending some to comfort him, abused them. Laban jacob, who truly serving, had his wages changed often. Lot, who admonished them, laughed him to scorn▪ The Lords of Keilah David, Who having delivered them out of the hands of the Philistine, would have delivered him into the 1 Sam. 23. 5, 11. hands of Saul, pursuing him. Nine lepers Christ, who being cleansed, returned not to him. Luke 17. Luke 14. Acts Psal. 38. 20. job 19. 19. 1 Sam. 25. Gen. 41. 9. Exod. 1. 8. Act. 7. 18. Matth 18. Gal. 6. 6. 1 Sam. 17. sir. 29. 17. Those men The King, who having invited them, refused to come. Paul, who preaching to them, sought to slay him. 2 King. 6. David, who doing good to them, returned evil to him. job, who loving them, turned themselves against him. Nabal David, who having defended his, would not relieve him. joseph, who interpreting his dream, forgot him. joseph And his posterity, by oppressing them, who were by him in his life blessed, by his being. Shechemits. That Person His Master who forgiving a great sum: forgave not a little one. His Teacher who teaching him in the word, would not give him. Sodomites. Saul David, going about to slay him; being faithful unto him. The Person that rewardeth evil for good, evil shall not depart from his house. Prov. 17. 13. The hope of the unthankful shall melt as the winter ice, and shall slow away as Wisd. 16. 29. unprofitable waters( saith the wise man.) Use. recompense no man evil for evil, or rebuk for rebuk, but bless: Despise not Rom. 12. 17. 1 P●●. ●. 9. Rom. 2. 5. 2 Tim. 3. 2. the riches of Gods goodness and Patience, and take heed of unthankfulness, which is one of St. Pauls mentioned capital sins. Gratitude and thankfulness. thankfulness Is a grateful acknowledgement of a kindness receive by remembering of it, by publishing it, and by recompensing it; Now a kindness done is the object of thanksgiving, yet unless the kindnsse done be accepted, and withall acknowledged to be a kindness, the heart of him to whom kindness is done will not be affencted to give him that did it thanks for it. So 2 Sam. 25. David did kindness to Nabal. yet he acknowledged it to be no kindness. thankfulness is to be given to God, and that for that( as St james saith) Every good gift is from him: Good things are from God, therefore he is to Iam. 1. 17. be praised: Every good thing cometh from him, therefore all praise is due to him. There are 3. sorts of Thanks, verbal, When we thank God with our lips. There are 3. sorts of Thanks, mental, When we thank him with our hearts. There are 3. sorts of Thanks, real, When our lights shine with good works. Matth. 5. 16. Abel rendered Thanks to God, In offering his first-lings: Abraham his son. Anna. Luk. 2. 38. Elders, Act. 11. 18., 20 David, Psal. 116. 13. Deborah, judge. 5. ●. Noah, Gen: 8. 20. faithful, Isai. 12. 1. Israelites, Exod. 4. 31. Mariners, Jonah 1. 16. Moses. Exod. 15. L●ah, Gen. 29. 35. Possessed, Mark 5. 20. Shepherds Luk. 2. 20, ●8 Gen. 4. Ch. 12. Gen. 17. 2. Chro. 15. Num. 31. Act. 3. 1 Chron. 1●. Dan. 2. Chap. 6. ●6. judge. 5. Abrah▪ servant rendered Thanks to God, By blessing his Name: King Asa by serving him. Captains rendered Thanks to God, By their offerings: The cripple by his leaping. David rendered Thanks to God, By preparing things for his house: Daniel by praying. Dariu● rendered Thanks to God, By his Proclamation: Deborah by singing. Ezra rendered Thanks to God, By thanksgiving: The Eunuch by rejoicing. Ezr. 7. 27. Act. 8. judge. 7. Act. 13. Gideon rendered Thanks to God, By worshipping: The Gentiles by glorifying. Hannah rendered Thanks to God, By dedicating her son: Isaac by an Altars building. 1 Sam. 1 Gē. 26. Gen. 32. 10. Jon. 2. Exod. 15. 2 Chron. 20. jacob rendered Thanks to God, By confessing his unworthiness: jonah by vowing. jehoshaphat rendered Thanks to God, By Shouting: The Israelites by singing. King Hiram rendered Thanks to God, By rejoicing: The multitude by glorifying. 1 Ki. 5. Mat. 9. Luk. 1. Gen. 8. Dan. 4. Act. 9. 1 Ki. 1. Luk. 2. Dan. 3. Luk. 13. Matth. 11. 25. Matth. 19. job. 9. Mat. 20. Luk. 8. 39. Matth. 14. Luk. 8. Luk. 17. Matth. 18. Esth. 6. 3. Gen. 23. 1 Sam. 25. Gen. 14. 2 Ki. 5. 2 Tim. 1. Sh●●●. Sh 〈…〉, 2 Ki. 4. Gen. 41. Mary rendered Thanks to God, By magnifying: Noah by his offering. Nebuchadnez. rendered Thanks to God, By praising him: Paul by Christ preaching. Salomon rendered Thanks to God, By blessing him: The Shepherds by lauding. Shadrach rendered Thanks to God, By a song singing: The woman by Thanksgiving. Christ rendered Thanks to God, By Thanksgiving for revealing things hidden. Apostles rendered Thanks to Christ, By forsaking all that they had to follow him. blind men rendered Thanks to Christ, By praising: others by following of him. Possessed men rendered Thanks to Christ, By publishing what he had done for them. Ship-men rendered Thanks to Christ, By worshipping: seeing Peter saved from drowning. Magdalene rendered Thanks to Christ, By ministering of her substance unto him. One leper rendered Thanks to Christ, By returning to him, and by praising him. Zacheus rendered Thanks to Christ, By entertaining him: joseph by burying him. Ahasuerus rendered Thanks to Mordecai, by advancing him, discovering of treason. Abraham rendered Thanks to The Hittites, by giving his money for the field had of them. David rendered Thanks to Abigail, by making her his wife, for her kindness to him. sodom king rendered Thanks to Abraham, by offering all their goods to him that were taken. Naaman rendered Thanks to Elisha, by proffering rewards refused by him. Onesiphorus rendered Thanks to Paul, by ministering unto him; and Paul by praying for him. Pharaoh rendered Thanks to joseph, by advancing him as the next unto him. jailer rendered Thanks to Paul and Barnabas, by washing their stripes, as also by his most courteous entertaining of them. Act. 19. Act. 16. Lydia rendered Thanks to Paul, by her courtesy shewed to him. Above all things give thankes to him that made thee, and replenished thee: Phil. 4. 6. 1 Tim. 4. 4. Col. 3. 17. Col. 2. 7. He that is thankful tothem that have well deserved, offereth fine floure. Whatsoever ye do in word or dead, do all in the Name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks, abounding in him with thanksgiving. read Good with good rewarded, page. 100. and 101. and Phil. 4. 6. 1 Thes. 5. 18. 2 Thes. 1. 3. 1 Tim. 4. 4. 1 Pet. 1. 3. Psal. 103. 2. Deut. 8. 10. Gen. 8. 20. 1 Sam. 14. 45. 1 Chron. 29. 2. 2 Chron. 20. 18. Gen. 14. 21. Chap. 16. 13. Act. 10. 46. 2 Cor. 9. 15. Matth. 8. 15. Of sinful Anger and Godly. ANger is both sinful and Godly: sinful anger is an inordinate desire to be revenged of him whom we suppose to have wronged us for any cause whatsoever: And is a secret pride conceived in the mind, which hindereth one from doing good to the person with whom he is offended: And is also when it is conceived without sufficient cause, or exceedeth Matth. 2. 21. Ephes. 4. 26. Prov. 10. 11. 1 Sam. 18. 7. 2 Sam. 16. 5. Luke 9. 49. either in the time, or in the measure, whereupon the Holy Ghost admonisheth that the sun should not go down upon our wrath. And lastly, it is when it makes us to forget our duty towards God and man, and so to fall to brawling. Of this sin there are many branches, to wit, malice, fury, impatiency, malediction, blasphemy, reproach, revenge, contention, threatenings, cruelties, and often-times mu●thers. Godly anger i● that when a man is angry not upon his own private cause and Exod. 16. 20. Chap. 32. 19. Num. 16. 15. 1 Ki. 19. 14. Nehem. 5. 6. jer. 6. 11. quarrel, but upon his own sins, and upon whatsoever hindereth the glory of God: And this anger hath three marks whereby it is known. 1. A right beginning, or motiv●. 2. A right Object. 3. A right manner of being angry, &c. 1. It must be ● just and weighty cause that must move us, namely upon an offence to God: Such was the Anger of Elijah, and others. 2. It must become a man, and that upon counsel and deliberation. 1 Sam. 20. 32. Prov. 20. 18. Iam. 1. 19. 3. It must be kindled by God, and holy affections, as namely to desire to maintain the honour and praise of God by love of virtue, and hatred of 'vice. A Description of a sinful angry man. An Angry Person Stitreth up strife, and dealeth foolishly; His wrath resteth in his bosom, S●r. 28. 10. Pro. 14. 17. 29. Ch. 29. 22 Eccl. 7. 9. Pro. ●7. 4. Ch. 14. 29. Prov. 21. 5. Prov. 22. 22. C●ap. 15. 18. he aboundeth in iniquity. He is outrageous, and exalteth folly. His motions are always to sti●re up contentions. His face is inflamed, and his hands are fighting. His teeth are as spears and arrows piercing. His words are like unto Hammers striking. His body, when he is moved, trembleth. His heart within him as fire burneth, and His throat as a Sepulchre gapeth. And thus the image of God being a Microcosmus for beauty, a little world for excellency, is made a confused image, and ugly: So that there is not found among all creatures living such a monster so deformed as an angry person. Prov. 17. 12. Ahaziah was angry with Elijah: Ahab with Micaiah for speaking truth to him. 2 Ki. 1. 1 Ki. 20. 2 Chron. 16. 2 Sam. 14. Num●. 21. Num●. 24. 1 Sam. 17. Luke 15. Esth. 3. 2 King. 6. Gen. 4. 2 King. 5. Dan. 2. 12.& 3. 1●, 19. Exod. 10. Gen. 30. 1 Sam. 18. 2 Chron. 26. 1 King. 22. Asa was angry with Hanani, and that because he reproved him. Absalom was angry with joab, because he came not, when he sent for him. Balaam was angry with His ass, because he lay down in traveling under him. Balak was angry with Balaam, because he had not cursed the Israelites for him. Eliah was angry with David, because he came to fight against the Philistine. Elder brother was angry with His Father, because the prodigal was entertained by him. Haman was angry with Mordecai, because he would not, ●s others did, honour him. jehoram was angry with The Lord, because he had sent a famine on the land. Cain was angry with Abel, because the Lord respected his offering. Naaman was angry with Elisha, because he had not come down to him. Nebuchadnez. was angry with Shadrach, because he would not worship the golden image. Pharaoh was angry with Moses, because he told him the Lords Message. Potiphar was angry with joseph, for the false report of his wife against him. Saul was angry with David, for the praise that the women gave him. Uzziah was angry with The Priests, for that they did withstand him sacrificing. Zedekiah was angry with Micaiah, for doing the Lords Message unto the king. Godly men subject to Anger. Jews. Act. 7. 54. David was angry with Nabal The Lord For not sending some relief unto him. 1 Sam. 25. 2 Sam. 6. 1 King. 19. Gen. 31. Gen. 48. David was angry with Nabal The Lord Because that Uzzah was suddenly smitten by him. Psal. 31. 22. Elijah was angry with God, because jezebel sought to take his life from him. jacob was angry with Laban, Insomuch as that he chode with him. joseph was angry with jacob, For putting his right hand on Ephraim. jeremiah was angry with The Lord, Because of the manifold afflictions laid on him. jer. 20. job 16. 21. jonah 4. josh. 7. Numb. 11. Gen. 30. Gen. 16. job was angry with The Lord, Insomuch as he desired to pled with him. Job 6. 26.& 10. 1.& 34. 37. jonah was angry with The Lord, Because the Ninevites were spared by him. Ioshua was angry with The Lord, So as that he rent his clothes before him. Moses was angry with The Lord, Insomuch as that he desired God to kill him. Psal. 88. 15. Gen. 27. 46. Rachel was angry with jacob, because that she had not children by him. Sarah was angry with Hagar, so as she cast her out from the house of Abraham. The Patriarks were angry with joseph for his dream, so that they hated him. Gen. 37. 1 Sam. 29. 4. james and John were angry with The Samaritans, So as they would have had fire to consume them. Luk. 9. 55. Barnabas and Paul were angry with One the other, so as they departed one from the other. Act. 15. Ps 〈…〉. 8. Prov. 22. 24. read Prov. 29. 20. Prov. 25. 8. Prov. 15. 1. Psal. 37. 8. Iam. 1. 19, 20. Prov. 17. 14. Use. Make no friendship with an angry man: go not with the furious, lest thou get Prov. 22. 24. Chap. 22. 25. Rom. 12. 19. Lev. 19. 17. Eccl. 2. 15.& 10. 6. Iam. 1. 26. his ways. Avenge not yourselves, saith the Apostle, but rather give place unto wrath: for vengeance is the Lords, and he will repay it. Woe be to that man that hath lost Patience, being furious. The man that refraineth not his tongue, his devotion is vain, saith the Apostle. read Prov. 12. 16. Prov. ●9. 19. Chap. 14. 17, ●9. job 5. 2. Prov. 15. 18. Ephes. 4. 31. Prov. 30. ●5. sir. 20. 18. Chap. 28. 10, 11. Of Godly Anger. The remedy against Anger. 1. Consider that injuries happen unto us by Gods appointment for our good. 2. That God forgiveth us more sins, then we can possibly forgive men, and if we forgive not, we shall not be forgiven. 3. Consider that bruit beasts do live peaceably with those that are of the same kind: Elephants company with Elephants: Kine and Sheep feed together, and Birds of a Feather fly together, Cranes on the day fly together, and at night one playeth the sentinel, watching over the other. 4. Nature hath given weapons to all living Creatures to fight, hoofes to Horses, horns to bulls, tusks to boars, stings to Bees, claws and beaks to Birds, but man is created to peace, being created unarmed and naked, that he might not have to hurt withall, therefore it is unnatural by seeking weapons to revenge which are without thee, being by nature denied unto thee. 5. Remember that a soft answer putteth away wrath. Prov. 15. 1. read Prov. 19. 19. Chap. 22. 24. Chap. 12. 13. job 5. 2. Prov. 14. 17. Chap. 15. 18. Chap. 15. 8. Chap. 27. 4. Chap. 2●. 20. job 3. 1. Matth. 5. 22. Prov. 16. 3. Ephes. 4. 31. 1 Thes. 5. 18. Ecclus. 4. 5. Chap. 1. 27. Chap. 20. 18. Chap. 28. 10. Psal. 37. 8. was angry( and sinned not) with Ahasuerus Haman for procuting the decree against the Jews. Esth. 3.& 7. Christ The Pharisees for watching him, if he healed on the Sabbath dayes. Mark 3. 4. 2 Sam. 12. Dan. 6. Job ●2. 2 1 Ki. 19. Elihu. 2 King. 13. Gen. 30. Gen. 34. Gen. job 2. 31. 36 Jer. 6. 10 Pharaoh. Exod. 11. 8. Lev. 1●. Numb▪ 16. Nū. 31. Luk. 14. 21. Exod. 16. 20. The Master. Exod. 32. 19. Neh. 5. 1. Numb. 25. 2 Chron. 26. David The man for taking the poor mans sheep from him. Darius Himself, for sealing the decree against Daniel. Elijah Israel, for that they had broken down Gods Altars. Elisha jehoahaz, for not striking the ground five or six times. jacob Rachel, For asking of children of him so unadvisedly. jacob Simeon, For slaying the men of Shechem so cruelly. ilb His wife, for willing him to curse God and die. jeremiah The people, for tha● Gods word was as a reproach unto them. Moses Aaron, for that the people had not eaten the sin-offering. Moses Corah, for his and his companies rebellion. Moses The Captains, for sparing of the Midianitish women. Moses The people of Israel For reserving of Manna until the morning▪ Moses The people of Israel For making the melted calf,& worshipping. Nehemiah The Jews, for the cry of the poor made against them. Ph●nehas The man for committing with the Midianitish woman, &c. The Priests Uzziah, for going about to burn incense before him. Be angry then, and sin not, Ephes. 4. 2●. Prov. 14. 2●. Prov. 27. 6. Prov. 18. 14. Prov. 19. 11. faithful are the wounds of a lover: but an enemies kisses are cruel. The spirit of a man will sustain his infirmity, but a wounded spirit who can bear? The discretion of a man deferreth his anger, and it is his glory to pass over a transgression. Murmuring. MUrmuring is between secret backbiting, and open railing, a smothered malice, which can neither be utterly concealed, nor dare be openly vented, and is a repining, whereby we do complain of the providence of God, either that he doth too much oppress, or else that he dealeth more mildly with others then with us, and this proceedeth from infidelity, and is perceived to be in man, when he is more grieved for the want of such and such like things, then thankful for that the Lord hath given him; and freed him from such and such like troubles that others are fallen into: or else when God hath given him sufficient to live upon, wherewith he is not content, though others want the same. Elder brother murmured against His Father, because the prodigal was entertained. Luk. 15. Act. 6. Matth. 2. 3. Fs●h. 5. Mark 14. Num. 11. Ch. 6. 4▪ 9. mat. 20. Luk. 5. Wisd. 1. 11. Phil. 2. 14. Aaron Mitiam. Joh. 6 41, 61. Disciples. Gretians murmured against The Jews, because their widows were neglected. Herod murmured against Christ being born, with all Jerusalem with him. Haman murmured against Mordecai, seeing him advanced by Ahasuerus the king. Iudas murmured against At the oil bes●owed on Christ by Mary Magdalene. Moses. Israelites murmured against The Lord often-times, for which they were plagued by him. Hi●elings murmured against The master of the vineyard, for giving alike to all of them. Elias Jonah jer. job. Pharisees murmured against Christ, for eating with sinners,& doing miracles among thē. The remedy of Murmuring. 1. Consider the general providence of God in creating all things, and in preserving all things: for if we believe the Lord made all things of nothing, shall we not believe he will preserve them? do we believe that God made all men, and shall we stand in fear of men? 2. To believe that God preserveth all as well as he created them, yea the small Sparrow doth not fall upon the earth without his providence, yea, and his care is greater over the beasts of the field, much more will he provide for man, for whom all things are made. 3. Consider the Lord hath made nothing in vain, he hath made all things for his glory, he hath made our bodies, he will then provide for them, seeing the Creation of them is more wonderful then the preservation. The Lord hath care of the wicked, more of the Godly. Psal. 29. 4. add unto the former a patient mind, by which we must be content with whatsoever God sendeth, acknowledging godliness to be great riches, and so to commit every thing to Gods protection, waiting on him; The which that we may do the Lord grant. Amen. do all things without murmuring,( saith the Apostle.) Phil. ●. 14. Wisd. 1. 11. For murmuring is unprofitable,( saith the Wise man.) infidelity and incredulity. infidelity is the sin wherein every man is conceived, and the seed thereof remaineth still in the children of God, whereby men do not believe often-times that which the Lord promiseth to bring to pass; as also causeth men to fear authority of the Creature, more then the glorious majesty of the eternal God: which proceedeth from this, that men consider not of God as he extendeth his providence over all things, and as he is a mighty Judge, taking revenge upon all sin and wickedness. This sin taketh hold of a man chiefly in time of some danger, afflictions, temptations, sicknesses, and often at the time of death. In a word, this sin is the cause of all sin, in that it maketh the wicked not to believe, but in part; and see but in a glass, in that although they consent generally to the truth, yet when they come to particulars, they reason thus with themselves: How can that and? By what means possible should this be? by reason whereof the Lord suffereth them to miscarry, and punisheth them in their own affections. The fruits of infidelity are impatiency, such was in jeremiah; tempting of jer. 20. 4. Matth 4. 7. 1 Cor. 10. 9. Gen. ●. Psal. 116. 11. 1 Thes. 4. 13. &c. God, whereof Christ speaketh: Desperation, such was in Cain, and doubtfulness of the Truth, such was in David, saying, I was sore troubled: I said in my hast all men are ●yars: Such also was in the Thessalonians, who dou●ted of the Resurrection. Through infidelity Adam and Eve disinherited Gods Word spoken unto them. Gen. 3. Gen. 12. Ch. 26. Ch. 15. 2. 1 Kin. 22. Mark 8. 16. Act. 27. Joh. 7. 4. Lu. 24. 38. Abraham and Isaac doubted to make their wives known. Ahab presumed to go to battle against Ramoth Gilead. The Apostles reasoned among themselves what to do for want of bread. Luk. 24. 19. The Centurion woudl hardly give credit unto St Pauls word. Christs brethren were not persuaded that Christ came from God. David Said that he should die by the hand of Saul, asked the second time, if he should save Ke●lah, and smite the Philistine, doubted of Gods 1 Sam. 27. 2 Sam. 23. Psal. 31. 22. Psal. 77. 8, 10. Luk. 24. 38. Matth. 17. 20. judge. 6. 2 King 22. Jer. 40. 14. Gen. 45. Exod. 6. 3. Psal. 78. 19. Numb. 13. 32. Exod. 17. 7. ●zt. 17. 11. Ro. 11. 20. Joh. 12. 37.& 9. 1●. Isai. 53. 1. Rom. 11. 20. Psal. 78. 19. Gen. 48. 17. mercy towards him, and therefore demanded of the Lord, if he had shut up his loving kindness in displeasure against him, saying, with the same breath▪ This is my death, as despairing. The Disciples made question, if that Christ were from death risen: as also Luk. 24. 39. whether he could heal the lunatic one? Gideon and Hezekiah desired signs to confirm them. Gedaliah harkened not to the good counsel of johanan. Iacobs heart failed him, hearing that joseph was living. The Israelites Hearkned not to Moses, being sent to deliver them. The Israelites In the wilderness doubted God could not preserve them. The Israelites Also some of them brought a slander on the land of Canaan. Jews regarded not the words of the man born blind restored to sight again, or of other miracles by Christ done: For which they are broken off for a time. joseph was displeased with jacob his Father for blessing his younger son, Job 9. 16. Ephraim, before Manasseh the elder. Ioshua doubted whether God would bring Israel over jordan. josh. 7. 7. 2 King. 5. Chap. 7. 12. Jer. 20. Job 30. Gen. 4. Gen. 19. Chap. 19. 19. Numb. 20. Chap. 11. 13. jehoram made question that Elisha could not cleanse the leprosy of Naaman: as also doubted that the Syrians were not fled, as it was reported unto him. jeremiah and job complained against God afflicting them. Kain thought not that sin lay at the door, as God told him. Lots daughters said, there was no man to come in to them. Lots sons derided Lots admonition to depart out of sodom▪ Moses and Aaron Sanctified not the Lord at the waters of Meribah, as the Lord commanded; As also Moses doubted that God could not feed the Israelites with flesh, as he had said. Martha said to Christ, Lord, he stinketh, he hath been four dayes dead( meaning joh. 11. 39. Lazarus) whom Christ raised. Mary questioned how it could be with her as the Angel said. Luk. 1. 34. Act. 12. Dan. 4. Matth. 13. 58. The men that heard Petor knock, said it was the Angel of him. nabuchadnezzar hearkned not to the counsel by Daniel given. The Nazarites held not Christ to be the M●ssias that was to come, and therefore Christ did not many miracles among them. Nicodemu● reasoned with Christ, how a man could be born again. John 3. 2 King. 5. Gen. 6. Gen. 37. Exod. 5. 2 King. 7. Mat. 27. Cha. 14. Gen. 18. Matth. 19 24. 2 King. 4. 16. 1 Sam. 15. 1 Sam. 16. Chap. 17. 33. 1 Sam. 16. 1 Thes. 4. 13. Joh. 20. Luke 1. Naaman made question, how he could be cleansed by washing. Old words repented not by Noahs preaching so long unto them. patriarches hearkned not to joseph telling them his dream. Pharaoh kept the Israelites in bondage, not thinking to deliver them. The Prince of samaria said, Corn could not be plenty, as the Prophet said. Peter three times denied Christ: and of sinking doubted. Sarah hearing she should have a child laughed. Saul harkened not to God in destroying Agag, and doubted that David could not encounter with goliath the Philistine, till he told him that he had slain a bear, and a Lion. Samuel feared to anoint David, as the Lord commanded him. Thessalonians doubted of the Resurrection: Thomas that Christ was risen. Zacharias that Elizabeth his wife should bear him a son. Use. 1. Against infidelity thou must have Faith and Fortitude the gift of God. Rev. 2. 10. Mark 9. 24. 2. With the man in the Gospel, pray thy unbelief may be holpen by God. read Act. 8. 13. sir. 2. 13. Faith and Hope. FAith is the ground of things hoped for, and the evidence of things which are Heb. 11. 1. joh. 1. 12. Rom. 3. 2●. 1 Cor. 3. 14. joh. 14. 17. Matth. 10. 20. Eph. 2. 8. Gal. 2. 3. Rom. 3. 24. Rom. 5. 1, 18, 19 Eph. 2. 8, 9. Gal. 2. 16, 21. Ga●. 5. 4. Chap. 3. 11. Tit. 3. 5. Jam. 2 ●7, 22, 26. not seen, being an assured affiance in Christ, and in the Father through him, certifying the Conscience that our sins are forgiven, and the damnation of the Law taken away: As also that whatsoever God hath spoken in his word shall come to pass. It is the only instrument, and excellent gift of God to man, wherewith he doth receive all the Divine Graces, the gifts of the Spirit, all whatsoever good, Christ, or whatsoever blessedness he hath wrought for us, for our Salvation. Doth Faith only justify? Faith only justifieth before God: we are saved by Grace through Faith, not through works, saith the Apostle, lest any man should boast himself: works justify before man( so saith Saint james) show me thy faith by thy works, &c. for Faith without works is dead. Faith is like a Rock, the gates of Hell shall not prevail against it: the mystery whereof is strange to carnal reason, dark to the work, Learning cannot reach it; wisdom is offended at it, Nature is astonished at it, the devils do not know it, men do persecute it, few only attain it. As there is no way for life so easy, so is there none so hard: easy to whom it is given from above, hard to carnal sense not yet inspired. Hope is a patient expectation of Gods presence, and an affiance in all things Psal. 37. 5, 7. Prov. 16. 3. whatsoever art for to come. Faith and Hope how differing. 1. Faith is a spiritual Prudence: Hope is a spiritual Fortitude: Faith resteth in the Understanding: Hope resteth in the will: Yet cannot they be separated, Exod. 37. 9. the one having respect to the other, as the two Cherubims of the mercy seat which could not be covered. 2. They differ in respect of their office, that is, of their working: Faith tells what is to be done, it teacheth, prescribeth, and directeth, and is a Knowledge. Hope stirr●th up the mind, that it may be strong, bold, and courageous, and is an Expectation. They differ as touching the Object, that is the Matter whereon they look. Faith Hath for her Object the Truth, teaching us to cleave thereunto surely, looking upon the Word and Promise of things promised. Hope Hath for her object, the Goodness of God, looking upon the things promised in the word, that is upon such matters as Faith teacheth to be hoped for. 4. They differ in Order. Faith is the beginning of life before all Tribulation. Heb. 11. 17. Rom. 5. 5. Hope cometh afterwards proceeding from Tribulation. They differ in diversity of working. Faith Is a Teacher and a Judge, sightinig against ●●rours and heresies, Judging Martin Luther on Galat. spirits and doctrines. Hope Is as it were the general and Captain of the field against tribulation, the cross, impatiency, heaviness of spirit, weakness, desperation, &c. waiting for good things in the midst of evil. Through Faith Abel offered unto God a better sacrifice then Cain did. Heb. 11. 4. Abraham obeied God when he called him, abode as stranger in the land promised him: as also offered up his son Isaac, as the Lord Joh. 8. 56. Heb. 11. 8. commanded him, trying him. Rom. 4. 20. King Asa Overcame the Ethiopians, being an host of many thousands, saying, Lord, it is nothing with thee to help, whether with many, 2 Chron. 14. or with them that have no power. Barak, jephthah, and Samson, overcame many an one. Heb. 11. 32. Mat. ●. joh● 9. Matth. 8. Act. 14. blind men received sight, being by Christ restored to them. The Centurions servant was healed, and the Centurion commended. The cripple was healed: his Faith being by Paul perceived. Ps. ●6. 1, &c. Caleb said, Let us go up at once, to wit, against the Amalekites, Hittites, &c. for undoubtedly we shall overcome them. Numb. 13. 31. Dan. 6. 16. Heb. 11. 35. Darius believed that Daniel should be delivered from the Lion. Daniel stopped the mouth of the Lion that he could not hurt him. David overcame goliath the Philistine in the Name of the Lord. 1 Sā. 17. Act. 13. Act. 8. Rom. 11. Act. 16. 2 Sa. 23. 5. Psal. 3. 6.& 6. 8.& 7. 10.& 11. ●.& 23. 4.& 49. 5. 15. Gen. 5. 22. Heb. 11. 21▪ Heb. 11. 22. Heb. 11. 22. Heb. 11. 29. Job 13.& 19. 26. 1 Sam. 14. 2 Chron. 20. Matth. 8. 2. John 11. 22. Luk. 7. Matth. 9. 2. The deputy seeing Gods judgement on Elimas, believed Gods word. The Eunuch became a Christian, being by Philip converted. The Gentiles were called: The Jews being for a time rejected. The jailer was converted by Saint Paul, with all his household. Henoch walking with the Lord was translated. Isaac blessed jacob and Esau concerning things to come. jacob when he was dying blessed Manasseh and Ephraim. joseph made mention of Israels departing from the Egyptian. Israelites passed thorough the read sea as on dry land. job said his Redeemer lived; and though he sl●w him, he would trust in him. jonathan said, it was not hard with God to save with few, or many. jehoshaphat overcame the Moabites and people of Mount Seirs army. The Leper was cleansed by Christ, as Christ himself confessed. Martha believed that the Lord would give Christ what he asked. Magda●ene was saved, having many sins by Christ pardonned. Luk. 1. 45. The man sick of the palsy, and the son of the Father were cured. Through Faith Godly men were racked, and would not be delivered, were tried by mockings, by imprisonment and scourgings, were stoned, hewn asunder, and tempted, wandring up and down in beasts skins Heb. 11. 35. in the wilderness, as also lived in caues, dens& mountains. Men Walk, and not by sight: saying, though the earth be moved, and the 2 Cor. 5. 7. Psal. 46. 2. John 1. 12. Epl●s. 3 12. joh. 5 24. Rom. 3. 28. Heb. 11 3. Ma●k 16. 17. Joh. 25. 3. Act. 15. 9. 1 Pet. 4. 9. Mark 11. 23. mountains fall, yet they will not fear. Men Are made the Children of God, receive the Promises, escape condemnation, are justified without works, have boldness and entrance unto Christ: Understand that the world was made by the Word of God: They overcome the world, and the devil: their hearts are purified▪ being by the Word made clean, and all things desired of God in the Name of Christ are given. Mountaines are removed( saith Christ) that is sin the burden of man. Moses was three moneths after his birth hide by his parents, and made choice to suffer adversity with the Israelites, rather then to be Heb. 11. 23. Act. 7. 22. Heb. 11. 7. Joh. 1. 49.& 6. 69. Neh. 4. 20. called the son of Pharaohs daughter. Noah prepared the Ark to save himself therein, and other. Nathaneel and Peter confessed Christ to be the Son of God. Nehemiah seeing many dangers imminent, put his trust in the Lord. The Prophets Obtained the promises, stopped the mouths of Lions, quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, of weak were made strong, waxed valiant in the battle, and Heb. 11. 33. Ps. 116. 10& 118. 7. Act. 27. 25. turned to flight the army of the aliens. Rahab was saved, when all they in Jericho else perished. 1 Pet. ●. 15. Heb. 11. ●1. Joh. 4. 50. Heb. 11. 11. 1 King. 17. joh. 4. 42. The Ruler concerning his sons health, believed the Word of God. Sarah being a long time barren, in her old age conceived. The son of the woman of Zarephath was from death to life raised. samaritans said that Christ was the Saviour of the world in dead. Shadrach Said, Our God whom we serve is able to deliver us out of thy hand: Dan. 3. 17. but if he will not, yet will not we fall down, and worship the image erected by thee. Sergius believed, being astonied at the word by Paul preached. Act. 13. Gal. 3. 2. Ro. 10. 17. Act 2. Matth. 15. Luk. 8. 43. Heb. 11. 35. 1 King. 17. 24. The Spirit is received not by works of the Law, but by faith preached. Three thousand souls were at one Sermon of Peters converted. The womans daughter of Canaan, and the woman of the bloody issue were healed. Women had( saith Paul) their dead to life again raised. Faith Is that whereby the just man liveth( saith the Prophet.) Gal. 3. 14, 26.& 5. 6. Sphes. 3. 17. Hab. 2. 4. Faith Is that whereby we please God: nothing can without it. Faith Is the victory by which the world is overcome. 1 job. 5. 4. Gal. 5. 6. Idem. james. 1 Pet. 1. 9. Rom. 14. 2●. Faith Working by love availeth in Jesus Christ alone. Is the Christian mans life towards God inwardly. And charity towards his neighbour( saith the Apostle) outwardly. The end of Faith is the Salvation of man, what is done without faith is sin. Use. 1. Doth Faith only justify before God? Then this condemns The Jews, who think to be saved by their Moses Law without Christ The Philosophets, who think to be saved by their moral virtues without Christ The Turkes, who think to be saved by their Alcaron without Christ The Papists, who think to be saved by their merits and Christ The Heathens, who think to be saved by their idols not knowing Christ The Atheists, who think there is no Salvation or Resurrection by Christ Is Faith so precious? strive then to obtain, which albeit it be implicit, yet remember what Saint Augustine saith, Si credis, caves; si caves, conaris;& conatum novit Deus,& voluntatem inspicit,& luctum cum carne considerat,& hortatur ut pugnes,& adjuvat ut vincas,& certantem spectat,& deficientem judge. l. 20. Psal. 27. 14.& 20. ●. Ephes. 6. 16. sublevat,& vincentem coronat. If thou have Faith, thou wilt attend to thy Faith, and God knoweth thy endeavour, August. in Psal. 32. Isai. 42. 3. and considereth thy strivings with thy flesh, and looketh into thy will, and exhorteth thee to the sight, and helps thee that thou mayst overcome, and beholds thy striving, and proppeth thee when thou art falling, and crowneth thee overcoming. Hope. Abraham and Isaac expected long till they had children. Act. 2. 26.& 24. 15. Psal. 16. 9.& 20. 7. 2 Cor. 1. 20. Gen. 21. Act. 1. Gal. 4. 4. Gen. 15. job 19. 25. Act. 7. 1●. Luke 2. 25: Luk. 18. Apostles expected the accomplishment of Christs Promise at Jerusalem. The Elect looked a long time, till Christ came in fullness of time. Israelites waited four hundred yeeres in Egypt to be delivered. job still remained, and Moses forty yeeres with jethro lived. Simeon waited long till Christ was by him embraced. The woman continued suing to the Judge that God nor man feared. 1 Cor. 15. 19. 1 Joh. 3. 2, 3. Heb 6 18▪ 19. H●sd. 5. 14.& 1●. 29. Psal. 3●. 24. 2 Cor. 4. 18. Experience bringeth forth Hope, Hope maketh not ashamed. Rom. 5. 5. Chap. 8. 24. Isai. 3. 23. Lam. 3. 24. By Hope we are saved, but hope that is seen is not hope. The hope of the hills is but vain, but in the Lord is health. The Lord is my Portion, therefore will I hope in him. Use. Hope then in the Lord, be strong, and he shall comfort thy heart. Psal. 27. 14. 1 Pet. 1. 3. Blessed be God, who hath through Christ begotten us to a lively Hope. Rom. 15. 3. Psal. 27. 14. read Rom. 10. 17. Phil. 1. 29. Iam. 1.& 2. 1 joh. 5. Mar. 9. 23. Ps. 57. 1. Ps. 77. 1. &c. Of Divine dreams. There are three kindes of dreams, natural, There are three kindes of dreams, spiritual, There are three kindes of dreams, diabolical. natural Flow from over-ruling humours in a mans body, and by multitude of business, whereby it cometh to pass that men dream according to their Constitutions. Men of Sanguine Constitutions, of Love, lightness, pleasant things. Men of choleric Constitutions, of Warres, strifes, brawls. Men of ●egmaticke Constitutions, of Waters, winds, storms, &c. Men of melancholy Constitutions, of Sad matters, of death, &c. From whence likewise it cometh to pass, dreams of The Ambitious The Angry The Citizen The Drunkard The Epicure The Hypocrite The Hunter The jesuit The proud man The proud woman Honours. spoils. Tricks and Frauds Ouaffings. Daintydishes and Fat Morsels. Distimulation. Venison. Treason. Fashions. Paintings. The jealous man The Lawyer The lustful The musician The soldier The Seminary the secure man The timorous The thief The Usurer dreams of His wives errors. quirks and demurs. Embracings. crotchets. Encounters. Equivocations. Delghtfulnesse. Dangers. Robberies. His Bonds and trunks. Secundum Dictum, Nascitur ex studiis praetoritis Somnium. What man desires in the day, he dreams in the night. 2. spiritual Have been such as have been known, either of the party, or of some other, who have had the true interpretation thereof, such was Iacobs, Pharaohs, &c. 3. diabolical Are illusions wherewith Satan vexeth those that are his, to wit, Witches, Sorcerers, &c. Where much carefulness is, there are many dreams, but who so regardeth dreams Eccl. 5. 2. is like him that will take hold of a shadow, and follow after the wind. Southsayi●g, witchcraft, ●orcerie, and dreaming is but vain; whereas visions come Ecclus. 34. 2. not of God, set not thy heart upon them; for dreams deceive many a man that pu● thei● trust therein. In a dream Abimelech was told by the Lord that he was but a dead man, for taking Abrahams wi●e in house to him. Gen. 20. Dan. 7. Gen. 28. job 7. 14. Gen. 37. Gen. 31. 11. Daniel had divers visions upon his bed shewed him. jacob saw a ladder on the earth whose top reached to Heaven. job saw visions, yea, such as terrified him. joseph Saw his sheaf arise and stand upright, and his brothers Sheaves to do reverence unto his, as likewise the sun, the Moon, and the eleven stars to reverence him. joseph The supposed Father of Christ, was willed by an angel not to mat. 1.& 2. fear to take Mary his wife unto him, as also to fly into Egyp● with Christ to preserve him. judge. 7. Gen. 31. Gen. 41. Chap. 40. Matth. 27. An Israelite saw a barley loaf tumbling into the host of Midian. Laban was commanded to speak good unto jacob meeting him. Pharaoh saw seven lean kine, and seven fat fed: And his butler saw vines, his baker a basket over his head. Pilates wife suffered many things, because of Christ, as she confessed. nabuchadnezzar Saw a great image, whose had was gold, breasts and arms Dan. 2. Chap. 4. silver, belly and thigh brass, legs iron, and feet part i●on part day. As also a great three that foreshowed unto him his ensuing misery. Salomon was willed by God to ask what he should give him. The wise men were warned by God to return another way home again. In a dream And Visions of the night when sleep falleth upon men, and they sleep upon Job 7. 14. Wisd. 18. 19. their beds, the Lord then openeth even the ears of men, even by their Corrections which he had sealed, that he might cause men to turn job 33. 15. &c. away from his enterprise: and that he might hid the pride of man, and keep back his soul from the pit, and that his life should not pass by the sword. Of Angels and their Apparitions. ANgels are called Spirits, and Angels: By the word Spirit their Essence and Heb. 1. 7. Nature is signified, to show that they are incorporeal substances. By their name Angel, their office is noted out, which is as much to say a Messenger, or an ambassador in English. For their Essence, they are true both subsistances and substances, yet such kind of substances as are not corporeal, but incorporeal. For their Creation it was in time, they were not from eternity. For their Apparitions it is so that they do truly come unto us, when they are sent of God to that end, which thing we may plainly see by divers examples in the Word of God: as that they appeared unto Abraham in true bodies, but from Gen. 18. whence they do take those bodies, and what becometh of them, when they do lay them aside, seeing that the Scriptures do deliver no certainty of it, we are not to inquire. Now the Lord useth both good and evil Angels to do his will. Heb. 11. 14. Psal. 34. 7. Psal. 11. 21. 2 King. 1●. Matth. 18. 10. 2 Sam. 24. 1 Chron. ●● 〈◇〉. 6. 12. 1 King. 22. 1 Cor. 4. 4. Luke 12. 2. I●de 6. Good Angels Are employed to be as a Guard and Garrison to the Elect of mankind, and that for their Comfort, Defence, and Protection at all times: And are such as behold the face of God in Heaven. evil Angels Are employed for the trial and exercising of the Godly, and for the seducing and tormenting of the wicked and ungodly: And are such as are reserved in everlasting chains. Use. 1. Hence we may learn to aclowledge how great the favour of God is towards us, who hath created so divine Servants for our sakes, placing them in office to rule, govern, and keep us. 2. We may learn to love God, because he is so gracious unto us that he will have the Angels to serve for our good and welfare. 3. We may learn to fear God, because he hath Angels to punish. 4. To blushy to commit wickedness, because that the Angels do behold and observe our actions done here on earth by us. To fortify ourselves in Faith in all adversity, because the Angels are always present to help us, remembering the comfortable words of Elisha to his servant, 2 King. 6. 16. saying, They that are with us, are more then they that are against us. An Angel appeared unto Abraham willing him not to lay his hand on Isaac his son. Gē. 22.& 24. 7. Act. 5. Num. 22. Luk. 22. Act. 10. 2 Sam. 24. Dan. 6. 2 Ki. 1. 1 Ki. 19. Ezek. 40. judge. 6. Isa●. 31. Gen. ●6. Act 12. Gen. 31. Exod. 40. Rev. 1. Exod. 3. judge. 13. Luke 1. Matth. 28. John 5. Act. 12. Act. 27. Act. 8. Dan. 3. Luk 2. Zech. 1. 9. Luk. 1. The Apostles delivering them out of prison by the doors opening. Balaam in his journey going to Balak, reproving him. Christ a little before his Passion, comforting him. Cornelius in a Vision willing him to sand for Simon to instruct him. David smiting many of his people for his numbering of them. Daniel shutting the Lions mouth at his being in the Lions den. Elijah willing him to reprove Ahaziah: as also feeding him. Ezekiel showing him the full and whole measure of the Temple. Gidcon showing him that he should be Captain over Israel. Hezekiahs Comfort, by slaying thousands of the Assyrians. Hagar in the wilderness, willing her to return to her Dame. Herods confusion, by smiting him with worms that eat him. jacob in time of Ramming, showing him the he-goats leaping. The Israelites going before them: and in the wilderness conducting them. Saint John in the Isle Patmos, showing him the Revelation. Moses, in a bush burning and not consumed, calling to him. Manoahs wife, showing her that she should bear a son. Mary showing her that she was the woman of whom Christ should come. The Keepers of Christs tomb rolling away the ston that lay on him. The men at the pool Bethesda troubling the water at a certain season. Peter, at what time as he was imprisoned, delivering him. Paul, being in danger of shipwreck, comforting him. Philip commanding him to go unto the Eunuch reading. Shadrach and his fellowes in the fiery furnace walking. Sennache●ib The Shepherds, showing them that Christ was born at Bethlehem. Zechariah The Prophet showing him The restoring of Jerusalem. Women, Matth. 28. Zacharias The Priest showing him That his wife should bear a son. Two Angels appeared unto Lot, whom he entertained at sodom. Gen. 19. joh. 20. 12. Act. 1. 10. Gen 18. Gen. 28. Chap. 32. Two Angels appeared unto Magdalene, in the midst of Christs tomb. Two Angels appeared unto The Disciples at Christs Ascension. Three Angels appeared unto Abraham, all which were entertained by him. Act. 1 10. Matth. 4. Many Angels appeared unto jacob On his Ladder walking. Many Angels appeared unto jacob And in his way journeying. And many are they that pitch round about them that fear the Lord, to deliver Psal. 34. Psal. 91. them, and in their ways to keep them. Names and Titles given unto wicked Ministers. Wicked Ministers are called Beg●●lers of people. 2 Pet. 2. 18. Mat. 23. 24. Matth. 15. 14. Isai. 56. 10. jer. 10. 21. Iude 11. Blind guides. Blind leaders of the blind Blind watchmen. Coveters of ●●lthy lucre. daubers of untemperec mortar. Ezek. 22. 18. Isai. 4●. 19. Tit. 1. 10. Rom. 16. 18. Prov. 14. 25. deaf messengers. Deceivers of mindes. Deceivers of hearts. deceitful witnesses. Wicked Ministers are called deceitful workers. 2 Cor. 11. 13. 2 Pet. ●. 1. jer. 23. 1. Ezek. 22. 28. Tit. 1. 10. 2 Cor. 11. 15. Isai. 56. 10. Phil. 3. 2. Isai. 36. 11. Phil. 3. 18. Tit. 1. 12. Phil. 3. 2. deniers of the Lord. Destroyers of the sheep. Diviners of lies. Disobedient persons. The Devils Ministers. Dogs not able to bark. Dumb dogs. greedy dogs. Enemies of Christs cross. evil beasts. evil mockers. Wicked Ministers are called False Brethren. Gal. 2. 4. False ●rophets. Deut. 13. 1. False Shepherds. Ezek. 34. 2. False ●eachers. 2 Pet. 2. 1. False Witnesse-bearers. Phil. 3. 18. Feeders of themselves. Iude 12. Foolish Prophets. Ezek. 13. 3. Foxes of the deserts. Ezek. 13. 4. Hirelings forsaking their flocks. John 10. 12. Light persons. Zeph. 3. 4. Liars speaking untruths. Rov. 2. 2. Men without understanding. Isai. 56. 11. Merchandizer● of Gods word. 2 Cor. ●. 17. Ministers of the devil. 2 Cor. 11. 15. profane men. jer. 23. 11. Prophesiers of lies. jer. 23. 25. Robbers of the people. joh. 10. 8. Scatterers of the sheep. jer. 23. 1. Seers of vanity. Ezek. 22. 28. 2 P●t. 2. 19. blind, deaf, Is. 4●. 18. Servants of corruption. Servers of their bellies. Rom. 16. 18. Shepherds without understanding. Matth. 23. 13. idol shepherds. Zech. 11. 17. Sleepers loving to flumber. Isai. 56. 10. Slumberers. Na●um 3. 18. Snares of Fowlers. Hos. 9. 8. Slow bellies. Tit. 1. 12. Sorcer●rs. 1 Sam. 28. 3. Southsayer●. josh. 13. 22. Speakers of swelling words 2 Pet. 2. 18. Stealers of the word. jer. 23. 30. Strangers, whose voices are not known. joh. 10. 5. Subverters of Housholds. Tit. 1. 11. tails. Isai. 9. 15. Teachers of things that they ought not. Tit. 1. 11. thieves. joh. 10. 1. thieves of lives. Isai. 9. 5. Treacherous men. Zeph. 3. 4. Ungodly men. Iude 4. Vain Talker●. Unruly persons. Tit. 1. 10. Wicked Angels. Wicked Messengers. Prov. 13. 17. Wresters of the Law. Zeph. 3. 4. greedy wolves. Act. 20. 10. Ravening wolves. Matth. ●. 1● And they are compared unto Clouds and Water. Tit. 1. 12. judas 12. Wels without Water. 2 Pet. 2. 17 judas 12. Clouds carried about with a tempest. Idem. Corrupt trees. Matth. 7. 17. blind guides. Matth. 23. 24. thorns▪ Matth. 7. 16. Thistles. Matth. 7. 16. Wandring st●rtes. Iude 13. Painted sepulchres. Matth. 23. 27. The sea foaming with raging waters. Iude 13. These are they that the Lord speaketh of by jeremiah, saying, I have not sent these prophets, and yet they run: I have not spoken to them, and yet they preached, Am I then a God that seeth but the thing that is nigh? and Jer. 23. 21, 23, 26, 32. not that is afar off? How long will these preach the crastie subtlety of their own hearts? I never sent nor commanded them, therefore they shall do the people no good at all. And again by Isaiah, saying, These watchmen are all blind, they have altogether no understanding, they are all dumb dogs, not being able to bark. They are sleepy, sluggish are they, and Isai. 56. 10. delight in sleeping. They are shameless dogs that be never satisfied, they can never have enough, such is their covetousness, they look to their own ways for advantage, and for Isai. 56. 11. their own purpose. And again by Ezekiel, saying, These shepherds feed themselves, should not they have fed the flock? they eat the fat, they cloth themselves with the wool, they kill them that are best fed, but Ezek. 34. 2. the flock they do not feed. The weak they have not strengthened, the sick they have not healed, neither have they bound up the broken, nor brought again that which was driven away, Chap. 34. 3. neither did they seek that which was lost, but with cruelty and rigour ruled them. hear therefore what the Lord saith by Ezekiel. If thou give not warning nor admonish the wicked of his evil way, he shall die Ezek. 3. 18. Chap. 33. 6. 1 Cor. 6. 19. in his own wickedness, but his blood will I require at thy hands; woe then to Hos. 4. 8. those that preach no● the Gospel. The midst of darkness is reserved for them, and their damnation sleepeth not, 2 Pet. 2. 4. saith the Apostle Peter. It had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, then 2 Pet. 2. 21. having known it to turn from the holy Commandement that was given unto them. By their fruits they are known. read jer. 48. 10. Isai. 8. 20. Ezek. 34. 10. Isa. 56. 11. Psal. 50. 16. joh. 17. 18. jer. 23. 14. Rom. 16. 18. 2 Pet. 2. 18. Tit. 1. 11. Hos. 6. 9. Ezek. 22. 25. Is. 28. 7. Zech. 11. 17. Mal. 2. 8. Eze. 13. 7, 8, 22, 23. jer. 2. 8,& 12. 10. Eze. 13. 10, 11. jer. 23. 14.& 11. 10. joh 10. 12. Names and Titles given unto Godly Ministers. Able Ministers. 2 Cor. 3. 9. Ohs. 1. 1. Ambassidours of Christ. 2 Cor. 5. 20. Angels. Rev. 1. 20. Apostles. Matth. 10. 1. Barkers. Isa●. 56. 10. Bishops. 1 Tim. 3. 1. Brethren. Mat. 23. 8. Bringers of glad tidings. Rom. 10. 15. Builders. Jer. 1▪ 10. 1 Cor. 3. 10 Chariots and Horsinen of Israel. 2 Kin. 2. 12. Chosen Vessels. Act. 9. 15. Chosen Shasts. Isai. 52. 2. counsellors. Prov. 11. 14. criers. Isai. 58. 1. Deacons. 1 Tim 3. 13. Disciples. Mat. 9. 37. Disposers of Gods secrets. 1 Cor. 4. 1. Di●ines. Ezek. 13. 2●. Elders. Act. 11. 30. Evangelists. Ephes. 4. 11. Evangelizers. 2 Tim. 4. 5. Fathers. 2 Kin. 6. 21. Fellow-workers. Rom. 16. 21. Friends of Christ. joh. 15. 15. Gods Servants. Amos 3. 7. Gods Labourers. 1 Cor. 3. 9. Gods Stewards. Tit. 1. 7. Guides of the blind. Rom. ●. 19. Interpreters. joh 33. 23. instructors of the foolish. Rom. 2. 19. instructors in Christ. 1 Cor. 14. 17. Labourers. 1 Thes. 5. 14. lambs. Luk 10. 3. Lawyers. Luk. 11. 52. Lights of the world. Mat. 5. 14. Burning Lights. joh. 5. 35. Shining Lights. Lords. 1 King. 18. 7. M●rders. Prov. 9. 3. Messengers. joh 33. 33. Messengers of the Lord. Hag. 1. 13. M●ssengers of the Ministers. Church and glory of Christ 2 Cor. 8. 23. 1 Sam. 2. 11. Ministers of Christ, 1 Cor. 11. 23. Ministers of The Gospel. Gol. 1. 25. Ministers of The New Testament. ● Cor. 11. 15. Ministers of The Spirit. 2 Cor. 3. 6. Men of God. 1 Ki. 12. 22. Holy men of God. 2 Pet. 1. 11. Honourable Men. 1 Sam. 9. 6. Fishers of Men. Matth. 4. 19. Seeds. Men. Luk. 8. 5. sons of Men. Ezek. 8. 15. Spokes Men. Exod. 4. 16. spiritual Men. Hos. 9. 7. Watch. Men. Isai. 21. 6. Wise Men. Prov. 11. 30. Work Men. Matth. 10. 10. jades. Men. 1 Thes. 2. 7. Overseers. Men. Act. 20. 28. Phisitians. jer. 8. 22. Pillars. Gal. 2. 9. Planters. 1 Cor. 3. 8. Preachers. Rom. 10. 14. Pastours. jer. 2. 8. Principals of the flock. jer. 25. 34. Priests. jer. 2. 8. faithful Priests. 1 Sam. 2. 35. Prophesiers. Ezek. 29. 2. Prophets. Gen. 20. 7. Publishers of Peace and Salvation. Isai. 52. 7. Recorders. Rev. 1. 2. Reapers. joh. 4. 36. Reprovers. Ezek. 3. 26. Rooters. jer. 1. 10. Rulers of Gods household. Luk. 12. 42. The savour of Life. 2 Cor. 2. 16. The savour of Death. Salt of the Earth. Matth. 5. 13. Scribes. Mat. 13. 52. Servants of the Lord. josh. 1. 1. Servants of Christ. Rom. 1. 1. Secretaries of the Holy Ghost. 2 Pet. 2. 21. Seers. 1 Sam. 9. 9. Shepherds. jer. 23. 4. Singers. Isai. 5. 1. Souldiers. Phil. 2. ●5. Sons of Thunder. Mark 3. 17. Sons of Consolation Mark 3. 17. stars. Rev. 1. 20. Stewards of God. Tit. 1. 7. Stewards of Gods Mysteries. 1 Cor. 4. 1. faithful Stewards. Luk. 12. 42. Wise Stewards. Teachers of Babes. Rom. 2. 20. Trees bearing fruit. jer. 11. 19. Good Trees. Matth 7. 17. trumpeters. jer. 6. 17. Waterers. 1 Cor. 3. 6. warriors. 1 Tim. 1. 18. Winners of souls. Prov. 11. 30. Witnesses of Christs sufferings. 2 Pet. 5. 1. True witnesses. Prov. 14. 25. And they are compared unto bells of Gold. Exod. 28▪ 34. A city set on a hill. Matth. 5. 14. A defenced city. jer. 1. 18. Fig-trees. Matth. 7. 16. Grapes. A householder. Matth. 13. 52. Iron Pillars. jer. 1. 18. Pipers. mat. 11. 17. ●lowers. Luk. 9. 6●. Sheep among wolves. Matth. 10. 16. Waters. 1 Tim. 1. 18. walls of brass. jer. 1. 18. Wrestlers. warriors. 2 Tim. 2. 4. And they are said to be unto God: To sweet savour of Christ in them that are saved, and in them that perish: 2 Cor. 2. 15, 16. To the one the savour of death unto death, and to the other the savour of life unto life: Who then is sufficient for these things? For we are not( saith Saint Paul) as many are, which chop and change with Chap. 2. 17. the word of God, but as of pureness, but as of God, in the sight of God speak we in Christ. The spirits of the prophets being subject to the prophets. 1 Cor. 14. 32. So that according to the saying of Malachi, the Priests lips shall preserve knowledge, and the Law shall be sought at his mouth, because he is the Messenger of the Mal. 2. 7. Lord of Hosts. How beautiful then are the feet, upon the Mountains, of him that bringeth Isai. 52. 7. good tidings of Good, that publisheth Salvation, and saith unto S●on thy God reighneth. read Numb. 22. 38. Deut. 12. 32. Isai. 61. 1, 2. Ezek. 3. 9, 10. Prov. 27. 23.& 29. 18. Amos 3. 7. Isa●. 62. 6. jer. 15. 15. Act. 20. 20, &c. 2 Cor. 12. 14. Chap. 6. 3, 4. Ephes. 4. 12. Phil. 3. 17. 1 Tim. 3. 6. Tit. 1. 8. Chap. ●. 7. james 3. 7, 11. Hos. 4. 8. Micah 3. 5, 6. The duty of Ministers. The duty of a Godly Minister is to hear the Word of the Lord from the mouth of the Lord: To admonish Ezek. 33. 7. Exod. 18. 20. Ezek. 3. 18. Deut. 4. 2. 1 Thes. 3. 22. 2 Cor. 6. 3. Act. 4. 36. Mark 3. 17. Isa●. 61. ●. 1 ●hes. 2. 10. Deut. 21. 5. Isai. 58. 1. Matth. 13. 52. 1 Pet. 5. 2. 1 Thes. 2. 7. Isai. 61. 3. Act. 20. 33. Rom. 9. 3. Exod. 32. 3●. 2 Tim. 2. 15. Ch. 4. Psal. 2. 4. Col. 4. 17. Ezek. 20. 46. Deut. 32. 2. the people of the Ordinances of God: The Godly that he doth not ●in, and the wicked of his sin. add nothing to the word of God, nor to take any thing therefrom. Abound in love towards his people, and towards his brethren. Approve himself the Minister of God by Patience and affliction. Be a Barnabas the son of Consolation, to divulge Gods mercies to the broken hearted. Be a Boanerges, the son of thunder to denounce Gods judgements to the obstinate. Behave himself holily, justly, &c. binding up the broken-hearted. bless the people in the Name of the Lord, being assembled. Blow the Trumpet, to lift up his voice like a Trumpet aloud. Bring forth out of his treasury things both new and old. Care for the flock not by constraint, but of a ready mind willingly. Cherish the people as a nurse doth her children continually. Comfort all that mourn, to give them beauty for ashes, oil of joy for mourning, and garments of gladness for heaviness. deal not only the Gospel, but his soul for the people. Divide the word aright; and to do the work of an Apostle. Declare the decrees of the Lord, fulfilling the ministry taken on him. Drop the word of the Lord, and his Doctrine as the rain. Exhort an Elder as a Father, the younger as brethren; the Elder women as mothers, and the younger as sisters. 1 Tim. 5. 1. Feed the people, and to give no occasion of offence unto any. 2 Cor. 6. 3. jer. 2●. 4. Flee from the lusts of youth, and to follow after Faith, charity, &c. 2 Tim. 2. 22. Give Attendance unto reading, unto exhortation and doctrine, and to 1 Tim. 4. 13. Neh. 8. 8. 1 Cor. 14. ●8. 2 ●im. 2. 24. 1 〈◇〉. 2. 25. 2 Tim. 4. 2. Isai. 50. 4. Eph. 1. 9. Jer. 1. 10. 2 Tim. 1. 2. Ezek. 29. 2. Matth. 10. 7. Isai. 61. 1. Jer. 9. 2. Act. 10. 36. Isai. 61. 2. Hag. 1. 13. Act. 5. 20. Numb. 22. ●8. give the sense having red the word distinctly. Interpret Scriptures, and to instruct with meekness contrary minded. Improve, rebuk, and exhort with long sufferings, preaching the Word. Minister a word in time to the person that is wearied. Open the mysteries that are hide of the will of God. Pluck up, and to root out, and to throw down, and to plant daily. Pray for Kings and men in authority, and for the people continually. Preach The preaching that God commandeth: The Gospel of Jesus Christ, Good tidings to the poor, liberty to the Captives, the opening of the prison to them that are bound, the acceptable year of the Lord, the kingdom of God, the word of the Lord; Peace by Jesus Christ, the day of vengeance, the Lords message, the words of this life, the words that God puts into his mouth, not his own words. Preach the words of Exhortation, to edifying, repentance towards God, and Faith in our Lord Jesus Christ, testifying unto the people that Christ is Judge of quick and dead, together with all that God hath commanded; teaching precept upon precept, line unto line, here a little and there a little, and that not with enticing speech of mans wisdom, but in plain evidence of the Spirit of the Lord, without giving Titles to any, that is, flattering any, or fearing of any, but with boldness, rising early in season Jo● 32. 31. Act. 4. 31. Chap. 28. 31. 1 Thes. 2. 4. ● Tim. 2. 4. 2 Tim. 5. 20. 1 Sam. ●2. 23. Ezek. ●9. 2. Deut. 5. 5. ● Tim. 1. 4. 1 Tim. 2. 2●. and out of season, not as pleasers of men, but of God. 2 Cor. 2. 17. The duty of a Godly Minister is to Respect no worldly affairs, therewithal to be entangled. Jer. 1. 10. Ezek. 22. 30. Psal. 106. 23. Exod. 32. 30. Isai. 50. 4. rebuk them that sin openly, showing them the good and right way. Set his face against the wicked, and against them to prophecy. Stand between the Lord and the people, declaring Gods Word. study to be approved before God: and not to strive abou● words. Strengthen the weak, to heal the sick, to bind up the broken, to seek those that are lost and that are away driven. Ezek. 34. 4. show himself an Example of good, suffering crosses patiently. 2 Tim. 4. 5. 1 Thes. 2. 5, 6, &c. 1 Cor. 7. 2. Use no flattering words: but to be in gravity and in integrity. Ezek. 18. 20.& ●. 18. 1 Pet. 5. 2. Rom. 9. 3. void all coloured covetousness, without seeking praise of men. Wrong no man, to defraud no man, nor to corrupt any man. wear on Aarons garment with his breastplate, Uri●● and Thummim, that is, soundness of Doctrine and integrity of life▪ to be an Example Exod. 28. 30. 1 Tim. 4. 1●. Matth. 5. 16. to others in word, conversation, faith, and pureness, to have their lights slain before men, &c. As also to have a Bell and a Pomegranate on their rob like Aaron, that is, a word and a work, faith and fruits, Profession and practise, say well Exod. 28. 34. and do well, what thy words sound let thy works expound, for that a noise in words without deeds acted is to wear a Bell without a Pomegranate. Beate Down his own body, and to bring it in subjection, lest by any means 1 Cor. 9. 10, 27. 2 Tim. 4. 7. Dan. 12. 3. Nehem. 8. 6. 1 Chron 30. 27. 1 Cor. 14. 16. after he hath preached unto others, he himself should be reproved. And having thus performed his duty, having fought a good fight, and so finished his cause, there is laid up for him a Crown of glory mat. 24. 45.& 18. ●●. in Heaven. read 1 Tim. 1. 2. Chap. 5. 22. Tit. 1. 17. Isai. 28. 9. 1 Tim. 3. 1. Tit. 2. 7. Act. 20. 28. 1 Thes. 4. 10. Rom. 12. 8. Ephes. 6. 6. Eccles. 9. 10. Amos 3. 7. james 5. 20. Micah 3. 8, 9. Act. 20. 35. 2 Cor. 12. 15. Prov. 27. 23. Isai. 62. 6. 1 Cor. 14. 6. Tit. 1. 8. Uses drawn from the duty of Ministers. Are then the duty of Ministers such as they are thus described, surely then many are in these dayes to be reprehended: This serves to reprehend 1. Dumb Ministers who cannot preach the Word of God, let them hear the Apostle: darkness and Damnation is for them prepared. 2 Pet. 2. 3, ●1. 2. Able Ministers who make themselves dumb, being able to preach, yet do not preach: such the Scribes and Pharisees shall at the last condemn, who taught diligently, and kept Moses his chair warm, compassing sea and land( Satans walk) to make a Proselyte: these sit still and frieze in zeal, and by their dull and wilful neglect lose Proselytes. The Master of the vineyard also when he comes shall find thē loitering in the public Matth. 23. 15. Chap. 20. 6. market place,& shall shake them by the shoulder with a Quid statis otiosi? 3. The Temporizer who measures his Sermons by his Lords humour and his Ladies, and therefore dares not speak Against Oppression, Because it is the fault of his Lord. Against Pride, Because it is the fault of his lady. Against Riot, Becaust it is the fault of his Young Master. Against drunkenness and Swearing, Because it is the fault of his Lords Followers. Against drunkenness and Swearing, Because it is the fault of his And young masters Companions. So that whiles he is their servile Chaplain he must learn Turkey-work to make thrumbe Cushions of flattery for their elbows: Thus he serves three masters, his Lord, himself, and the devil. He preacheth Peace where there is none: woe is pronounced against him. jer. 6. 14. joh. 7. 18. 4. The vain-glorious minister, who to get glory to himself useth gallantnesse of action, pomp of words, exquisitness of Phrase, elaboratenesse of style, ambition of quotation, witfull luxuriances of popish Postillers, affencted ostentations of pregnancy of wit, variety of reading, skill in tongues, profoundness of conceit, ripeness and happiness of memory, rareness of invention, and such other human artificial accessions, whereas they should seek the glory of God alone that sent them, by dividing the word of truth aright, John 7. 8. Act. 12. 23. to those that hear them. Herods Example is a Caveat for them. 5. Papists, who, in stead of Sermons, use latin services forbidden by the Apostle, 1 Cor. 14. Gal. 6. 6. with Masses and such like, by themselves invented, but let them be warned▪ The Lord God will not be mocked. The Titles and duty of Magistrates. MAgistrates are the eye of the commonweal, and therefore there ought to be in them both Learning and virtue for executing of the Law, to take vengeance of the wicked, and to defend the upright: in that their office is not only holy and lawful before God, but also the most holy, and honourable degree in all the life of man: most holy, in that God hath made them an Image of himself, set his stamp upon them, and given them his own Name, to speak for him, to rule for him, to defend for him, and to punish for him, And that they are most honourable, is also proved by divers other Titles, wherewith the Scriptures do set them forth, as also by the Example of holy men, who have born civill power among the Israelites, and that in good Or●er, which is the mother and preserver of things. Magistrates are called Ancients of the people. Isai. 3. 14. chief of the people. judge. 20. 6. Elders of the people. Numb. 22. 4. Heads of the people. Deut. 29. 10. Captains. 1 Chron. 27. Champions. 1 Sam. 17. 51. chief of the Fathers. 1 King. 8. ●. Children of the most High. Psal. 82. 6. Fathers. job 29. 16. Gods. Psal. 82. 6. Governou●s. Gen. 45. 16. Gu●des. Prov. 6. 7. Iudg●s. Exod. 18. 13. Kings. 1 Sam. 8. 9. Lords. Gen. 3●. 4. Magistrates. Rom. 13. 4. Ministers of God. Idem. Men fearing God. Exod. 18. 21. Men of Strength. Deut. 31. 7. Men of Valour. 1 Chron. 6. 3●. Men of Courage. judge. 6. 12. Men of Knowledge. Prov. 28. 2. Men of wisdom. Deut. 1. 13. Men of True Dealings. Idem. Men of uprightness. 2 Sam. 23. 3. Men hating Cov●tousnesse. Exod. 18. 21. Discreet Men. Just Men. 2 Sam. 23. 3. Learned Men. Gen. 41▪ 39. Wise Men. Officers. Gen. 41. 34. Overseers. 1 Chron. 2. 52. Princes. josh. 8. 33. Rulers. Nū. 1. 16. Rō. 13. 3, 4. Powers. Revengers. Who according to their Titles should have the better to execute their offices, a Lions heart, that they shrink not in just causes: and constancy, lest by their friends they wax partial: together with gravity in commanding, and civility in Conversation. Their duty being to The duty of Magistrates is to ask with Salomon an understanding heart to judge bad and good. 1 King. 3. 9. 2 S●●. 2●. 3. L●● 7. 27. bear rule over the people in the fear of God, to beautify the House of God. Carry themselves for the good of the people as the Ministers of God. Rom. 13. 14. Defend the godly, and to bridle and punish the wicked. 1 Pet. 2. 14. L●o●. 23 3. L●v●t. 19. 15. Easteeme neither poor or mighty in their cause before them handled. Execute Justice and Judgement in line, weight and measure, to hurt no man, 2 Sam. 8. 15. L●●it. 19. ●●. I●● 29. 14. 1 Sam. 12. 3. E●●●. 2; 8. nor to take bribes of any man, by Samuels Example, because they blind the wise, and pervert the just. Go in and out before the people, as did Ioshua and Moses. D●ut. 31. Prov. 24. 3. 2 Chr●. 19. 7. D●u●. 16. 18. Have the fear of God before them, not respecting persons. hear the controversies of the people, the small as well as the great, judging Deut. ●. 16. righteously, not fearing the face of man, because that the judgement is the Chap. 16. 19. Lords alone. Judge faithfully, uprightly, and with a perfect heart in every cause between Psal. 58. 1. 2 Chro. 19. 10. Prov. 31. 9. Deut. 2●. 1. Ezek. 45. 9. 1 T●●. 2. 2. Deut. 19. 18. blood and blood, law and precept, statutes and judgements that shall come before them. justify the righteous, and in all things the wicked to condemn. Leave of cruelty and oppression, executing justice to every one. Look unto godliness, that Religion may be more and more maintained. Make diligent inquisition. that each cause may be rightly discerned. 1 Kin. 3. 9. jo● 29. 16. E●o●. 2●. 6, 7. Prov. 31. 9. Overthrow no poor mans cause being right, nor to slay the innocent. Provide for the Peace, unity, and peoples Concord, to get their favour by being Esth. ●0. 3. Jo● 29. 16.& 16. 19. Neh. 9.& 13. gentle and loving towards them, by the example of Mordecai, joh, and Nehemiah, following them in all things that concern God and men. Walk in Juctice, to speak righteous things, to refuse gain of oppression, to keep 2 Sam. 23. 3. Lev. 19. 15. Jo● 29. 16. their hands from taking of gifts, to stop their ears from hearing of blood, to shut their eyes from seeing of evil, and to be free Isai. 33. 15. Lev. 19. 15. Matth. 4. 24. jo● 15. 34. Amo●●. 12. Of partiality. in respecting persons, That is abominable in Gods sight. Of cruelty, in ministering Justice, Such measure shall be measured. Of bribery, in detaining right, Fire shall consume the household of bribes. And having thus ruled well, all things shall go well with them, and the realm shall endure long, and the people shall rejoice under him, they shall be blessed of God, they shall have the Name of God, the Protection of God, the favour of I●seph with Pharaoh in this life, the Comfort of Moses and Samuel at their death, and at the day of judgement shall appear with joy before the Judge of quic● and dead: whereas on the contrary wicked Judges, causing the people to sigh, and the commonweal to be changed,( for that they are like roaring Lions, Rom. 13. 2, 4. and hungry Be●res) the wrath of God shall be on them powred: Woes are against them pronounced. speak not to be made a Judge: Christ refused to be a Judge. Heb. 13. 17. Thou shalt not tail upon the Judge: Every Soul shall be subject▪ Nuper eram Judex, jam Judicis ante Tribunal Subsistens P●veo, judicor ipse modò. read 1 Pet. 2. 13. Prov. 29. 2. Chap. 18. 16. Prov. 15. 22. Chap. 17. 15. Chap. 18. 5. Chap. 21. 7. Chap. 24. 5, 7. Chap. 20. 5. Chap. 28. 21. 1 Kin. 2. 3. 2 Chron. 19. 6. &c. Eccl. 31. 8. Isa●. 10. 1, ●. jer. 22. 15. Isai. ●9. 14. Chap. ●. 7. Lev. 19. 15. Deut. 17. 11.— 6. 1, 2, 3. Act. 15. 25, 26. Ezek. 34. 4. 2Chron. 19. 20. Ezek. 45. 9. Prov. 24. 23. Deut. 1. 16.& 16. 19. The Devils Titles and Temptings. THe devil is great in Knowledge and Experience, being false in accusing, and always in evil-doing from the beginning, whence he hath divers Appellations and sundry Names given unto him, who is invisible, and can change himself 2 Cor. 11. 14. into an Angel of light, much more into any other shape, that he cannot be discerned by the eye, nor yet sometimes seen by reason. Mark 8. 32. As by Peters Example we see, that in reason he thought not that the Son of man should die, as Christ told him, his eyes being by Satan blinded. He is the prince of the world, seeking continually whom the may devour. And therefore is called The devil is called Abaddon in Hebrew. Revel. 9. 11. Appollyon in Greek. Revel. 9. 11. Destroye● in English. Revel. 9. 11. An Angel of the bottomless pit. Idem. A wicked Angel. judge. 6. An adversary. 1 Pet. 5. 8. An Accuser of men. Rev. 12. 10. A beast of seven heads. Apoc. 11. ●. & 13. 1. Beelzebub. mat. 12. 24. Belial. 2 Cor. 6. 15. A Comp●sser. job 1. 7. A Devil. Luk. 4. 3. A Devourer. 1 Pet. 5. 8. A Deceiver. Rev. 10. 10. A Dragon. Apoc. 12. 7. An enemy. Matth. 13. 39. An envious One. Matth. 13. ●8. A father. John 8. 38. The god of this world. 2 Cor. 4. 4. The king of this world. Rev. 9. 11. A king. Apoc. 9. 11. A Leopard. joh. 10. 12. A liar. joh. 8. 44. Legion. Mark 5. 9. Leviathan. Isai. 27. 1. Lucifer. Isai. 14. 12. A malicious One. Matth. 13. 9. A subtle One. Idem. A strong One. Matth. A wicked 1 joh. 2. 13. A murderer. John 8. 44. An oppressor. Act. 10. 38. The prince of this world. joh. 12. 31. The prince of darkness. Ephes. 6. 12. The power of darkness. Col. 1. 13. A roaring Lion. 1 Pet. 3 8. A sinner for the beginning. ● joh. 3. 8. A Serpent. An old Serpent. Gen. 3. 1. A crooked Serpent. Isai. 27. 1. A Snarer. 1 Tim. 3. 7. Satan. joh 2. 6. The spirit of error. 1 joh. 4. 6. A seducing spirit. 1 Tim. 4. 1. The spirit of darkness. Ephes. 6. 2. An evil spirit. 1 Sam. 16. 14. An unclean spirit. Matth. 12. 43. A Transformer. 2 Cor. 11. 15. A Tempter. Matth. 4. 3. A Tormentor. Matth. 18. 34. And is compared unto A Dog. Psal. Fowles of the air. Matth. 13. 4. A Hunter. Psal. 91. 3. Lightning. Luk● 10. 18. Locusts. Rev. 5. 3. 1 Thes. 5. 6. A wolf. Joh. 10. 10. 1 Thes. 5. 6. An Adder. Psal. 91. 13. A Dragon. Ps. ●. 1●. Is. 14. ●●. A Fowler. Psal. 91. 3. The devil is in The Serpent tempting Adam and Eve, promised them to be as God, by eating Gen. 3. to know good and evil. The Mantle of Samuel, a religious habit to deceive King Saul, seeking to 1 Sam. 28. speak with Samuel. The world, by having his nets in riches, preferments, and vain-glory. The Creature, by abusing, and by causing them to be used unthankfully. Melancholy Humours, persuading despair to be sorrow for sin. choleric Bodies, persuading Wrath to be good zeal with them. Civill wisdom, by mingling of policy together with christianity. The wicked, by fearful shapes at their dying day most ugly. Our souls, by evil suggestions and motions inticingly. Our affections, by binding and persuading to do unlawfully. Our Reason, by casting doubts, planting in us infidelity. Our members, by mi●gling with repentance distrust of Gods mercy. The Time of mans prosperity, persuading him to Presumption. The Time of mans adversity, persuading him to Desperation. Abuse of Scripture: Tempting Christ every word is Scriptum est. Matth. 4. Thus he is every way tempting, and often prevailing. As he did with Adam, who lost The state of immortality for an Apple. Gen. 3. Heb. 12. 16. 1 Sam. 15. 9. Matth. 8. Luke 14. Esau, who lost A Birth-right for a mess of pottage. Luk. 13. 16. Saul, who lost A kingdom in Earth and Heaven for Mutton. Girgasites, who lost All their portion in Christ for Bacon. Bidden Guests, who lost A royalty in Heaven for a farm and Oxen. So that his labour is continually to do evil: He The devil Provoketh the Magistrate to Tyranny, the people to treachery; The Learned 2 Cor. 11. 14. to here●ic, the simplo to security: All kind of people whatsoever to sin and imp●etie. Puts slander in tongues, malice in hearts, mischief in hands. Infuseth schisms in Doctrine: and in Conversation ●arre●. Oppugneth Truth with heresy: simplicity with popularity. Casteth in time of preaching ungodly meditations to distracted mens mindes hearing attentively: and in the time of praying fills the head with holy Instructions to cool therewith the servencie. Fits The Usurers Humour, by seating him in his furs. Fits Ambitious Humour, by looking from his lofty Turrets. Fits Epicures Humour, by studying of dainty dishes. 2 Tim. 2. Fits Proud mans Humour, by inventing of new fashions. Makes some blind, So that they cannot See The hour of Grace. Makes some dumb, So that they cannot Praise God for his goodness. Makes some Dease, So that they cannot hear The Words of Salvation. Makes some Impotent, So that they cannot do A dead of Consolation. Makes some Lame, So that they cannot walk In the ways of the Living. Makes some shrunk, So that they cannot Advance one devout thought to heaven. Makes some Snared, So that they cannot Come To amendment by leaving sin. So that he fitteth his temptations to every ones inclination: If he see one inclined unto covetousness, he will offer him Naboths vineyard: If unto vainglory, he will make him to thirst after the life of Mordecai: and if to ambition, he will stir up means for him to drive out David of his kingdom. Note. The power that the devil hath whereby he thus prevails against man is from God, therefore of itself good: but the tempting and Gods power abused is from the devil, who converteth that which was good from God into evil. And thus the Lord permitted him The L. permitted Satan To tempt Eve in Paradise: and Christ in the wilderness. Gen. 3. mat. 4. 1 Chron. 21. 2 King. 22. 1 Sam. 16. job 1. mat. 16. Zech. 3. 1. Matth. 8. Revel. 2. 13. The L. permitted Satan To provoke David to number the people. The L. permitted Satan To entice King Ahab to go to fall at Ramoth Gilead. The L. permitted Satan To enter into Saul, Gods Spirit being departed from him. The L. permitted Satan To afflict job in body, and to slay all his children. The L. permitted Satan To persuade Peter to rebuk Christ, speaking of his Passion. The L. permitted Satan To stand before the Angel of God at his right hand. The L. permitted Satan To go into the swine, by reason whereof they ran headlong, &c. The L. permitted Satan To have a seat in Pergamus, and to prevail often with the just. The devil Goeth about like a roaring Lion seeking whom he may devour of 1 Pet. 5. 8. Gods children, who sought to winnow the Apostles, as it were wheat, till Christ prayed for them. Luk. 22. ●2. Use. 2 Cor. 2. 11. Seeing he seeketh to devour● us, let us, as the Apostles counsel is, watch to prevent 2 Cor. 2. 11. 2 Tim. 6. 26. Ephes. 4. 27.& 6. 11. 1 Tim. 4. 1. 2 Cor. 2. 11. 1 Pet. 5. 9. james 4. 7. him, resisting him in the Faith, and in so doing he will fly from us, and we shall conquer him. Of Warres wherein few have overcome many The Lord fighting for them. wars are lawful only when Magistrates are driven to take weapons in hand to execute public revenge upon those that trouble the peace of their Dominion, whether they be Civill or foreign enemies, wherein is also required that it be denounced and undertaken by the Prince, and that for a just cause, wh●ther it▪ be Defensive or Offensive; Peace being first refused. Abraham Overcame Five Kings with their army, having but three hundred and eighteen persons of his own family. Gen. 14. Ki. Ahab Overcame King Aram with two and thirty other kins joined with him, having but a little host, like a little flock of Kids, and slay 1 King. 10. 11. one hundred thousand of them. Amaziah Overcame King of Edom: And slay ten thousand of his fighting men. 2 King. 14. Abijah Overcame jeroboam, and slay five hundred thousand chosen men of his Company, the Priests only blowing with trumpets, and his men shouting they fled suddenly. 2 Chron. 13. King Asa Overcame Zerah, having ten hundred thousand m●n, with five hundred and fourscore thousand, and that onely by prayer, calling on 2 Chron. 14. the Lord earnestly. Adino Overcame Eight hundred men: Abishat three hundred at one time. 2 Sam. 23. 8, 18, &c. Benaiah Overcame An Egyptian with a staff, he having a spear in his hand. Barak Overcame Sisera having nine hundred Chariots of Iron, and slay all his host, so that a man was not left of them, and he himself was judge. 4. by Iacl slain. David Overcame Hadadezer And took a thousand and seven hundred horsemen, 2 Sam. 8. 4. 2 Sam. 5.& 8. Chap. 10. 1 Chron. 18. 1 Sam 30. 1 Sam. 23. 1 Sam. 17. judge. 3. 2 Sam. 22. and twenty thousand ●ootmen, he slay twenty two thousand Aramites with a small company and with four hundred men overcame the Amalekites being a great company: He slay the Philistines whole host with a few men: and goliath with a staff and a sling. ●hud Overcame King Eglon by policy: and slay ten thousand of his men. Eleazar Overcame The Philistines, who till his hand was weary slay them. G●deon Overcame The Midianites and Amal●kites, and they of the East, being in multitude like grasshoppers, with three hundred men by judge. 7. blowing of Trumpets and breaking of Pitchers, the Lord setting each mans sword on other. Hezekiah Overcame King Ashur: An Angel slaying of them 85000. in number. 2 King. 19. Exod. 14. Chap. 17. Numb. 21. ●osh. 12. Numb. ●1. 49. 1 sand. 7. jung. 19. josh. 6. Chap. 11. Chap. 10. judge. 12. 1 Sam. 14. The Israelites Overcame Pharaoh, being drowned in the read sea by the Lord. The Israelites Overcame Amalek, more by Prayer then by Ioshuabs sword. The Israelites Overcame K. Arad the Canaanite, and overthrew his city. The Israelites Overcame The Kings in the land of Promise, being in number many. The Israelites Overcame Five Kings: And slay thirty thousand with 12000 men. The Israelites Overcame Philistines: The Lord thundering from Heaven upon them. The Israelites Overcame Benjamites: And slay in one day twenty fi●e thousand men. Ioshua Overcame Jericho Only with blowing of trumpets and shouting. Ioshua Overcame Ammonites And smote twenty cities among them. Ioshua Overcame Five Kings The Lord casting stones from Heaven on them. jephthah Overcame Ephraimites; And slay two and forty thousand of them. jonathan Overcame Philistines: The Lord causing the earth to tremble under them. Jeh●shaphat Overcame The Ammonites and Moabites with the men of Mou●t Seir, by calling on the Lord and shouting, the Lord causing the men 2 Chron. 20. of Ammon and Moab to slay the people of Mount Seir, and after themselves with their own swords to slay each other. Pekah Overcame Judah men: And slay of them one hundred& twenty thousand. 2 Chron. 28. judge. 3. Chap. 15. 1 Sam. 11. Sham●ar Overcame The philistines: And slay of thē Six hundred with a goad. Samson Overcame The philistines: And slay of thē A thousand with a Jaw-bone. Saul Overcame Nahash the Ammonite; and slay all of them. Samaria Overcame The Syrians: The Lord causing them to hear a noise of Chariots and horsemen, whereupon they fled. 2 King. 7. 2 Chron. 24. ● Sam. 4. Numb. 14. Syrlans Overcame joash, haing a great host, but forsaken by God. Philistines& Amalekites Overcame The Israelites: and slay of them thirty thousand, so that they were as Bees chased, God being with them displeased. The Lord Saveth not with sword or spear: it is nothing with him to save 1 Sam. 17. ●7. Chap. 14. 6. 2 Chro●. 14. 11. 2 Cor. 12. 9. 1 Sam. 2. 4. Psal. 44. 3. 5. Psal. 76. 3. Psal. 144. 1. with many or with few: His power is made perfect through Psal. 27. 3. Psal. ●8. 39.& 60 1●.& 68. 30. & 76. 3. weakness: through him the bow and the mighty are broken, and the weak are girded with strength: we thrust back our adversaries, and tread down those that rise up against us, through him we shall do valiantly; for it is he that teacheth our hands to fight, and our fingers to battle. The King Is not saved by the multitude of an host, neither is the mighty Psal. 33. 16, 17. Psal. 44. 7. 1 Sam. 17. 47. Psal. 46. 9. m●n delivered by much strength: The horse is a vain help: The help of man is vain: The bow and the sword cannot save, Psal 98 1. they are broken by the Lord, the spear is cut, and the Chariots are burned. Eccl. 9. 18. Prov. 20. 18. Better is wisdom then weapons of war: By counsel make war. read Isai. 31. 1. josh. 10. 25. jer. 21. 4. Psal. 76. 6. Psal. 10. 8, 12, 13. Psal. 46. 0. Psal. 76. 1. Psal. 18. 24. Exod. 14. 14, 25. 1 Sam. 17. 47. 1. Sam. 2. 9. 2 Chro. 24. 24. Psal. 44. 3, 6. 2 Ki. 6. 16. 1 Chron. 19. 13. Prov. 21. 31. Hos. 1. 7. Psal. 108. ●3. Psal. 44. 3. Psal. 68. 30. Psal. 76. 3. Of Tyrants and their tyranny. tyranny is a thing base and inhuman, and therefore by the latins called feritas, because it maketh us to forget all human mercy and Compassion, and causeth us to delight in blood and murder, not respecting the weakness or unworthiness of the enemy, nor yet the equity of the cause. Tyrants are of two sorts: The one in Title. Tyrants are of two sorts: The other in Action. In Title, that without lawful Title usurpeth the government of any place. In Action, that having lawful principality behaveth himself cruelly. cruelty of Tyrants are likewise of two sorts: The one fierceness in afflicting of punishment upon cause. The other a certain madness with delight in cruelty without cause. Causes of cruelty are three: covetousness, Violence, Ambition, naturally engrafted in the will of Tyrants wanting reason, in that they often against reason, as also common equity and honesty, execute their tyranny( their will being only a law) according to the old common proverb: Stat proratione votuntas. Tyrannically and cruelly Adoni-bez●k cut off seventy kings thumbs& great toes of their feet& hands. judge. 1. judge. 9. 2 King. 11. Mat. 2. Exod. 1. 1 King. 21. jer. 41. Gē. 4. 2 Sā. 3. 20 2 Mac. 2. 2 King. 15. 2 King. 3. Luke 13. 1. jer. 3●. 1 Sam. 22. 2 King. 17. 31. Abimelech murdered seventy of his brethren to be king. Athaliah massacred all the seed royal( save joash) to be Queen. Herod murdered all the little children: Pharaoh drowned them. jezebel caused Noboth to he stoned, and his vineyard to be taken. Ishmael slay Gedaliah, and seventy other men. Cain slay Abel his brother: And joab, Amasa and Abner. The King put to death the seven children with the mother. Menahem ript up the women of Tiphsah that were with child. King Moah offered up for a burnt offering his own child. Pilate mingled the blood of tho Galileans with their sacrifices. Nehuchdnez zar slay Zedekiahs sons before him, and then put out his eyes. Saul slay fourscore and five belonging to the Levites. King Ahaz, 2 King. 16. 3. King Manasseh, 2 Chron. 22. Israelites. Judah men, Ezek. 16. 20. The Sepharvims, 2 King. 17. 31. Heathens made their sons and daughters to pass thorough the fire. Simeon and Levi slay the Shechemites for ravishing their sister. Gen 34. Melanct. loc. come. Psal. 55. 25. Phocas slay the wife and children of Mauritius the Emperour before his face, and after put him to death. The blood-thirsty and deceitful man shall not live out half his dayes: The Lord abhorreth both of them. Of Feasts and Feastings. THe name of a Feast importeth the living, conversing, and familiarity of one man with another, for that men are not made like wild Savages to eat their morsels apart, but in civill manner to repast with others: for that Feasting is the Mother and nurse of Amitle, the salue and Repairer of continued Love, and the Exod. 5. 1. Chap. 10. 9. Rev. 3. Luke 14. 8. joh. 2. Isai. 25. 6. sign of never intermitted friendship: To which purpose our Saviour speaketh, promising to come in and sup with us, assuring us that all displeasures are forgotten, and all offences forgiven. And to show the honour of Feastings, Christ sheweth it by a Parable: as also at a Feast did his first miracle in Canaan, turning water into wine: and the Lord himself is said to make a Feast unto all people of dain●i●s and pleasant things. Again, Feastings are not amiss, so that they be used in remembrance of Gods benefits, for maintenance of mutual friendships, and for relief of poor diseased persons; only we ought to take heed that we use not cu●ious diet, but mirth at meales in stead of delicates, because Sine arte mensa& plus salis quàm sumptus: Great Feasts are not without dangers, they serve not to suffice nature, but to nourish corruption. Observable it is, that joseph kept Christ twelve yeeres, but at a Feast lost him, but found him again in the Temple. Iobs sons were banqueting Luke 2. 44. when the house fell on them, jo● said they had sinned. Let us therefore take heed especially of these three feastings: To feast in Rioting and drunkenness, that is to feast with the World. To feast in Chambering& wantonness, that is to feast with the Flesh. Rom. 13. 13. To feast in Strife and envyings, that is to feast with the devil. A feast was held by Abraham at Isaacs weening. Gen. ●8. 7. Chap. 19. 5. Chap. 6. 50. Chap. 29. 22. Gen. 21. Ahasuerus unto his Frinces. Esth. 1. Queen Esther unto Ahasuerus Chap. 5. Isaac unto King Ablmelcoh Jews. Nehem. 8. 12. Davi●. 2 Sam 3. 20. E●sha. 2 King. 9. 21. Cap●●ins, 1 C●●●. 12. 39. Gen. 26. 30. jacob unto Labar. Gen. 31. joseph unto his brethren. Chap. 43. 34. Herod at his birth-day. Mark 6. Iohs children each his day. joh 1. 4. Labanat Iacobs marriage day. Gen. ●9. 22. Matthew at his new born day Matth. 9. Samson at his day of marriage judge. 14. 1 King. 3. 15. Chap. 8. 65. Salomon unto all his Princes. And the Israelites held the Feast of The Sabbath: of the Passe-over: Levit. 23. of the first fruits: of trumpets: of unleavened Deut. 26. 11, &c. bread: and of Whitsuntide. W●ē thou holdest a feast( saith Christ) call not thy friends, nor Luke 14. 1●. thy brethren, nor thy kinsmen, nor thy rich neighbours, left they also hide thee again: but call the poor, the maimed, &c. red Ecclus. 32. 5. Neh. 8. 1●. Exod. 5. 1. 2 Sam. 3. 20. Esth. ●. 20. Pro 21. 17. 1 Ki. 3. 15. Gen. 40. 2●. 1 Sam. 25. 36. & 8. 65.& 19. 21. 1 Chr. 12. 39. Esth. 2. 18.& 9. 18. Eccl. 10. 19. 1 Cor. 10. ●7. Of Mournings and Weepings. David Mourned and wept Being pursued by Saul; departing from jonathan. 1 Sam. 20. Chap. 30. 2 Sam. 12. C●ap. 15. Psal. 6. 6. David Mourned and wept For the city Ziklag being burnt; for the child born in adultery; for Absalom his son, conspiring against him; and for the sins committed by him, so as he made his bed and couch with tears to swim, and for Abner being by joah slain. 2 Sam. 3. 51. Dan. 10. 3. Gen. 27.& 33. 2 King. 8. Mar. 9. 2 Ki. 20. 1 Sā. 1. Esth. 6. Gen 21.& 29. Gen. 45. Daniel Mourned and wept Three dayes of weekes together eating no pleasant thing. Esau Mourned and wept For loss of his blessing: and for joy of Iacob● meeting. Elisha Mourned and wept Seeing the evil Hazael should do to the Israelites children. The Father Mourned and wept For his child possessed: and Hezektah being by God visited. Hannah Mourned and wept Being by Peninnah vexed:& Ham● seeing Mordecai advanced. Hagar Mourned and wept In the wilderness wandring: jacob at Rachcls coming. joseph Mourned and wept For joy seeing his Father jacob and his brethren. josiah Mourned and wept Hearing the Word of the Lord by the Prophet spoken. 2 King. ●2. 2 Ki. 13. joh 2. 12. Ch. ●0. 25.& 16. 20. 1 Sam. 20. Isai. 22. joash Mourned and wept For Elisha being ready to die: Iohs friends for his misery. joh Mourned and wept For such as were in trouble, and for his own afflictions. jonathan Mourned and wept For David, seeing Saul his Father to hate him. Isaiah Mourned and wept With jeremiah for the misery of the Israelites to come. jer. 13. Lam. 1. Rev. 5. 4. John Mourned and wept Because no man was found worthy to open the book shew'd him. The Israelites Mourned and wept For flesh in the wildernesle: at the Angels rebuking of Numb. 14. 4. judge. 2.& 20. Chap. 11. 1 Sam. 11. P●●l. 1, 7. 1. E●r●●. 1●. them: seeing the Benjamites to overcome them: for the Benjamites being destroyed by them: At Nahash speech unto them: and for their captivity in Babylon. Mordecai Mourned and wept Hearing of Hamans decree against the Jews and him. Esth. 4. Luk. 7. joh. 20. Ruth 1. Neh. 1. Luk. 22. Act. 21. 13. Gen. 37. 1 Sam. ●4. judge. 14. Mat. ●. Luk. 23. 28. Magdalene Mourned and wept At her coming to Christ,& at his s●pulchre not finding him. Naomi Mourned and wept Departing from her country: Nehemiah for Jerusalems misery. Peter Mourned and wept Bitterly, having denied Christ at the voice of a maiden. The people Mourned and wept abundantly hearing Paul should be bound at Jerusalem. Reuben Mourned and wept Affectionately for joseph being cast into a pit by his brethren. Saul Mourned and wept Hypocritically, hearing the voice of David his son. Samsons wife Mourned and wept Fallaciously, to know the riddle propounded by Samson. Women Mourned and wept For their children slain by Herod● other for Christ crucified. Christ Mourned and wept For Lazaru●, raising him; over Jerusalem, pitying them, in John 11. 13. Luk. 19. Heb. 5. 7. Isai. 53. Rom. 12. 15. Matth. 5. 4. Eccl. 7. 2. the garden before his passion with drops of blood trickling from him, and that by reason of Gods wrath being heavy upon him for the sin only of man. Weep with them that weep: Blessed are they that mourn. Better to be in the house of mourning then in the house of feasting. Christ commanded weeping, Luk. 2●. 28. Mourning for deceased persons. Abraham Mourned& wept for Sarah his wife. Gen. 23. 2 Sam. 11. 2 Sam. 1. Gen. 50. Chap. 37. Gen. 50. Chap. 38. job 1. 20. Abigai● Mourned& wept for Uriah her husband. David Mourned& wept for Saul, Abner, jonathan. Egyptians Mourned& wept for Ia●ob dayes seven. jacob Mourned& wept for joseph supposing him dead joseph Mourned& wept for jacob being dead. judah Mourned& wept for His wife Shuahs daughter. job Mourned& wept for His sons and daughters. jeremiah Mourned& wept for josiah with lamentation 2 Chro. 35. 25. Numb. 20. 29. Deut. 34. 8. The Israelites Mourned& wept for thirty daies for Moses and Aaron. Israelites Mourned& wept for Four dayes yearly for daughters Mourned& wept for Iephthahs daughter. judge. 11. Act. 8. Chap. 9. 1 King. 13. 30. Eccl. 7. 2. Certain mō Mourned& wept for Steven stoned. Ce●t-women Mourned& wept for Dorcas forth stretched The Proph▪ Mourned& wept for The prophet seduced. Saint Paul Willeth men not to sorrow for them that are asleep as other that 1 Thes. 4. 13. Rom. 8. 11. have no hope: for if we believe that Jesus is dead and risen again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him. The wise man Willeth men to poure forth tears over the dead, and to mourn as if thou hadst sustered great harm thyself: yea to make a grievous lamentation, and to be earnest in mourning, and to Ecclus. 38. 16. Chap. 22. 11. use lamentations as he is worthy, and that a day or two, lest thou be evil spoken of, and then to comfort thyself again. A Description of Death. There are two sorts of death: The one corporal. There are two sorts of death: The other eternal. corporal death Is the separation of the soul from the body, with all the evils Gen. 9. 13. Eccl. 12. 7. Deut. 28. 15. that attend thereon, to wit, sorrows, griefs, sicknesses, diseases, and such like. spiritual death Is the final separation of the whole man in Hell for ever, from 2 Thes. 1. 19. 2 Tim. 2. 26. Ephes. 2. 2. Heb. 10. 27. Isai. 33. 14. Gods favourable presence and fellowship, together with present bondage under Satans hellish horrors, and such like fore-runners of damnation. There are three other kinds of death defined, to wit, Death In sin: Such are they that are Reprobates. Rom. 8. 6. Exod. 22. 12. Rom. 8. 13. Death For sin: Such are they that are Malefactours. Death To sin: Such are they that are Gods elected Ones. There are three heralds or Messengers going before Death: 1. casualty, which tells every one of a doubtful End. 2. Sicknesses, which tells every one of a painful End. 3. Old age, which tells every one of a Certain End. Constitutum est omnibus semel mori. Heb. 9. 27. It is appointed unto all men once to die. Heb. 9. 27. What man is he that liveth, and shall not see death? shall he deliver his soul from Psal. 89. 48. the hand of the grave? Selah. Names and Titles given unto Death. Death is called A bed to rest in. Isai. 57. 2. Phil. 1. 23. job 3. 17. 1 C●r. 15. 51. job 14. 2. job 6. ●. Gen. 5. 5. Isa. 38. 10. Phil. 1. 23. 2 Cor. 5. 1. A being with Christ. A ceasing from troubling. A changing. A cutting down. A cutting off of dayes. Death itself. A depriving of yeares. A dissolution of the body. A destruction of the Earth, body▪ A day of darkness. Ecc. 12. 7. Luk. 2▪ 29. Psa. 146. 4 A departing in peace. A departing of breath. An Entrance into the way of all the world. josh. 23. 9. Psa. 49. 19. An Entrance into the generation of the Fathers. The end of all flesh. Gen. 6. 13. 1 Sā. 26. 10 2 Sā. 3. 18. Act. 7. 60. 2 Tim. 4. 7. job 20. 8. Gen. 25. 8. job 5. 26. 1 Ki. 2. 10. Gen. 15. 15 2 Sā. 12. 23 Ps. 115. 17. job 33. 24. Ps. 39. 13▪ Eccl. 12. 5. job 17. 16 The end of mans dayes. A falling. A falling asleep. A finishing of our course. A fleeting away. A gathering to the people. A going To the grave. A going The way of al the earth. A going To our fathers. A going To the dead. A going To the place of silence. A going Into the pit. A going Home. A going To mans long home. A going Down to the bars of the pit. A going Into the land of darkness. job 10. 21 A hiding in the Grave. job 14. 13 job 30. 23 job 3. 13. A house for the living. A lying still. Death is called A laying With our Fathers. Dan. 13. 65. job 14. 1●. job 21. 26. 2 Pet. 1. 14. A laying Down. A laying In the Dust. A laying Down of our Tabernacle. The land of darkness. job 10. 21▪ Psal. 88. 12. Phil. 1. 23. 2 Tim. 4. 6. job 20. 8. job 34. 20: Gen. 7. 22. job 34. 15. Psal. 115. 17. jo●. 9. 4. job 3. 13. R●●. 14. 13. job 3. 17. job 21. 32. 2 Cor. 5. 8. Gen. 3. 9. Psal. 146. 4. job 14. 20. job 11. 10. job 3. 13. 1 Thes. 4. 14. 1 King. 1. 21. jo● 7. ●1. job 34. 15. Gen. 5. 24. Psal. 104. 29. 1 King. 19. 4. Heb. 11. 15. Wis. 4. 10 job 14. 2. 1 Ki. 17. 17. josh. 23. 14. job 16. 22. The land of Oblivion. A losing from the body. An offering up. A passage. A passing away. A perishing. A perishing of the flesh. A place of silence. Night. A quiet resting. A rest from labour. A rest for the wearied. A remaining in the tomb. A removing out of the body. Returning to the Dust. Returning to the Earth▪ A sending away. A shutting up. A sleep. A sleep in Jesus. A sleeping with the fathers. A sleeping in the dust. A turning unto the dust. A taking away by God. A taking away of mans breath, and soul. A Translation. A vanishing. A want of breath. The way of all flesh. The way to go in without returning. An yielding up of the Ghost, and Gen. 35. Chap. 25. 8. of the spirit. Death is common to all. A terror to the Rich: a desire of the poor: a separation of all: a thing inheritable: a rest from travel: a depth eternal: a shadow of life: of many a thief: the end of all strife: a voyage uncertain: a Gen. 27. 2. Pilgrimage not known: the dissolution of every one: of the dead a companion: the beginning of eternity, and the end of those that die. And is compared unto an Archer making Man his But, or M●rk, who when he shooteth, striketh in this manner following: In shooting over us, he strikes our ancestors. In shooting behind us, he strikes our Servants. In shooting on our right hand, he strikes our Wives and Children. In shooting on our left hand, he strikes our Friends. In shooting in the midst, he strikes our ourselves. So that no one can escape him, for as St Paul saith, Constitutum est omnibus semel mori: It is appointed unto all men that they shall once die: Omnibus semel, plerisque ●is: to Heb. 9. ●7. Hos. 13. 14. ● Cor. 15. R●vel. 21. 4. Job 14. 5, 14▪ Joh. 13. 1. Job 10. 9. Wisd. 7 6. 1 Tim. 6. 7. all once, to many twice: for there is a second death, and that is truly a death, because it is Mo●s vitae, the death of life: The other rather a life, because it is Mors mortis, the death of death, after which mors non erit ultra, there shalbe no more death. Now as job saith, Mans time is appointed, his months determined, and his dayes numbered, yea, and( as Christ saith) his very last hour is limited: He was made of the mould of the earth, he shall return again to the earth; And as all have one entrance▪ into life, the like going out shall they have to death: Nothing we brought in, nothing shall we carry out. the wicked is to be feared. Eccl. 7. 2. the Godly is to be desired. all people is to be expected. For Vita citò avolat, nec potest retineri. Mors quotidiè ingruit, nec potest resisti. Life fleeth away speedily, and cannot be retained. Psal. 89. 48. Death cometh on hastily, and cannot be resisted. Better( saith Salomon) is the day of Death, then of Birth: and yet The Athe●st dares not die for fear non esse, to be no more remembered. Usurer dares not die for fear malè esse, that he shall be damned. and dares not die for fear An sit, an non sit, an damnatu● sit. doubtful dares not die for fear Whether he shall be, or not be, or be condemned, or saved. conscience dares not die for fear The faithful only dares die, because of his Election he is assured. Comforts against Death. THe Remembrance of Death( saith the Wise man) is bitter to a man that seeketh Ecclus. 41. rest and comfort in his substance, unto the man that hath nothing to vex him, and that hath prosperity in every thing. It is bitter to the infidel, that looks for no life after this, and to them that never tasted of the cross, as also to them that are strong and lusty in body, but sweet unto the contrary, acceptable and good unto the needy, to them whose strength faileth, that is in his last age, that is full of cares, and without Hope and Patience. The parting with the world, the pang● of death, the horror of the grave, and consideration of Judgement maketh death to seem formidable to many an one. Against all these arm thyself with this: 1. That death freeth the Godly from the tyranme of Satan, from sin, the world, the flesh, and ●ternall damnation, placing them with Christ in Heaven. Phil. 1. 2. 2. Christ by his death sanctified unto us both Death and the Grave. 3. The Consolations of Gods Spirit to the Soul, surmount the dolours of death. 4. The desire of the beholding of God should make us willing to lay down our lives, and with Paul to de●●re to be dissolved. Phil. 1. 1 Corinth. 2 Cor. 5. 5. In stead of earthly bodies we shall be clothed with unspeakable glory, and have an habitation not made with hands, but eternal in the Heavens. 6. The sting of death, namel, sin is then fully taken away so that it can no more hurt us. 7. That neither death, or any thing else, is able to separate the Godly from Christ in whom they are elected. Rom. 8. 8. We should not so much think of the fear of death, as to take an exact account of our life, for that that man ca●not die ill, who hath lived well; but seldom death well, that li●eth evil. Then live well, and die never: die well, and live ever. 9. Remember them that have been before thee, and that shall come after thee, that this is the judgement of the Lord over all flesh to taste of death. Ecclus. 41. 3. After which Bona opera sequuntur bonos to crown them. Mala opera persequuntur malos to torment them. The dreadful death of the wicked. Fearful was the end of Abimelech, who was slain by a woman with a piece of a millstone. judge. 9. 54. 2 Sam. 13. 2 Sam. 18. 2 Sā. 17. Mat. 27 1 King. 22. 2 King. 19. 2 Chron. 20. 1 King. 20. 2 King. 19. josh. 7. 2 Ki. 8. Ammon, whose heart being merry with wine was suddenly slain. Absalom, who was hanged by the hair in the boughs of a three. Ahithophel and Iudas, who hanged themselves despairingly. Ahab, who was slain by an Arrow shot at him. Ashur, who was slain in his idoll-temple by his own children. The Ammonites, Moabites, and Mount Seir: who slay one the other. The Aramites, on whom a wall falling twenty seven thousand died together. The Assyrians, of whom an Angel slay one hundred fourscore thousa●●. Achan stoned, and of Benhadad, who was by Hazael choked. fearful was the end of Ananias and Saphira, who were strike by God suddenly dead. Act. 5. Dan. 5. 2 Ki. 1. Gen. 19. Dan. 6. 1 Sam. 2●. Luk. 16. 1 Sam. 17. Esth. 7. Act. 12. 2 King. 9. Gen. 4. Numb. 16. Numb. 14. 2 King. 2. Dan. 3. Lev. 10. Nū. 16. Gen. 7. 1 Sam. 5. Exod. 14. 2 King. 7. Luk. 1●● 1 Sā 31. judge. 4. Mat●●. 27. 1 King. 16. Belshazzar, who saw a hand-writing, and was slain by the chaldean. Two Captains, and of sodom, who were burnt with fire from Heaven. Daniels Accusers, who were cast into the Lions den with wife and children. Doeg, who s●●w eighty five persons that wore the linen Ephod. Dives, who was no sooner dead, but was in hell tormented. goliath, who in his blasphemy was slain by David suddenly. Haman, who was hanged on the gallows made for Mordeca●. Herod, who was by an Angel smitten, and by worms eaten. jezebel, who was trampled to death with horses, and with dogs eaten. Kain, who died despairing of the Lords mercy. konrah, who was swallowed up into the earth with all his comp●nie. The murmurers amongst the Israelites that died in their murmuring, The mocking children, who were by the two she bears slain. The men burnt in the flamme that bound the three Children. Nadab, Abihu, and many other, who were with fire consumed. The old world, especially of such as of their sins had not repented. The Philistines, whom the Lord before the Israelites slay, and scattered. Pharaoh, and all his army that in the read sea perished. The Prince of Samaria, being trod to death for his unbelieving. The Rich man, who in the midst of his ●ase had his soul taken from him. Saul, who slay himself, and Sisera, who was by jael slain. One thief of the two crucified, that died of Christ reviling. Zimri, who burnt himself voluntarily, after his conspiring. Murthercis, Idolaters, and other sinners, that died not repenting. transgressors shall be destroyed together, and the end of the wicked is such as Psal. 37. 18. job 18. 17. Prov. 11. 22. Phil. 3. 19.& 3. 13. that they shall be rooted out at the last, and the remembrance of them shall perish from the earth, and they that come after them shall be astonied at their day: to whom it shall come as they have done, their end being damnation. The precious death of the Godly. precious was the End of Abel, who being slain, was the first Martyr in Heav●●. Gē. 4.& 25. 8. Num. 20. job. 14. 2. 2 Sam. 12. Exod. 1. 16. Mat. 2. 2 King. 2. 2 Ki. 2. Gen. 5. 2 King. 13. Gen. 25. 5. Chap. 27. Gen. 50. job 42. Mark 6. Luke 16. Deut. 34. Gen 9. ● King. ●1. 2 Tim. 4. 2 Sam. 7. 14. Act. 7. Luk. 23. I●●. 25. ●. 2 Sam. 11. 2 Chron. ●4. Rom. 4. 25. Heb. ●. 15. Col. 1. 20. psal. 116. 15. Psal. 7●. 14. Eccl. 7. 1. Rev. 14. 13. Abraham and Aaron, who lived a godly life, and died ol● men. The Apostles, for whom Mansion-places were prepared in Heaven. The child begotten in adultery, as it appears by Davids saying. The Children that were by King Pharaoh and Herod slain. David, who having reigned forty yeares, died in the Lord. Elijah and Henoch, who were taken up into Heaven by God. Elisha, jeremiah, and other Prophets, that now reign with God. Isaac, who was counted only blessed of all Abrahams children. jacob, who had from Esau his elder brother his fathers blessing. joseph, who saw his childrens children to the fourth generation. job, whose latter dayes were double blessed by the Lord. John Baptist, who was for reproving King Herod beheaded. Lazar●●, who is now in Father Abrahams bosom seated. Moses, who dying in the land of Moab, was by God butted. Noab, who lived nine hundred and fifty yeares ere he died. Naboth, who was unjustly stoned to death for his vineyard. Paul, who had a Crown of glory laid up for him. Salomon, in that God promised never to take his mercy from him. Steven, who being stoned, saw Christ his Saviour in Heaven. One thief, whom Christ promised should be with him in Heaven. Uriah the Prophet, and the Hittite, who without cause suffered. Zecha●iah, who for doing that which God commanded was stoned. Christ, For all those that by a lively Faith lay hold on him. Who died for our sins, and rose for our justification. precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his Saints. Bet●er to the Godly is the day of death, then the day of birth: Blessed are they that die in the Lord, for they rest from their labour. We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, for the trump shall blow, and the dead shall be raised, and shall bear the voice of the Son of God, and they shall live, and be saved▪ But as there is great difference 1 Cor. 15. 5. 52. job. 5. ●5. betwixt the death of the godly and of the wicked, so shall there be in their Resurrection in three respects, to wit, in their Cause, Manner, and End of rising. In their Causes, the wicked riseth by Gods citation, the Godly by Christs union. Dan. 12. 2, 3. 2 Cor. 5. 10. In their Manner, the wicked riseth with sorrow, the Godly with joy. In their End, the wicked riseth unto shane, the Godly unto glory. read 1 Thes. 4. 16, 17. Revel. 20. 6. Isai. 57. 1, ●. The Resurrection of the Godly and ungodly. ANd as the difference is great between their Resurrection, so shall it be in the places appointed for their habitation: for that the wicked sh●ll then hear that doleful sentence pronounced by Christ, saying, item maledicti, Depart from me ye cursed into everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels, there shall be for ever their abiding: Whereas the Godly shall hear that comfortable sentence of Christ pronounced, saying, Venite Benedicti, Come ye blessed of my Father receive the kingdom prepared for you from the beginning: there shall be their abode world without ending: Which sentence of joy that we may all hear, and place of bliss enjoy, the Lord for his mercy grant, and that for his son Christ Jesus h●s sake, to both whom with the holy Ghost our Comforter three persons and one God be ascribed and given all ●aud, praise, honour, glory and dominion from this time forth and for evermore, Amen. FINIS. A Table of the principal Matters contained in this Book. A. ADams fall. page.. 18 Adversaries of the Godly. 32 adultery. 121 Afflictions profitable 34 Afflicted persons God heareth. 33 Ambition. 134 Angels Apparitions. 160 Anger sinful. 153 Anger Godly. 154 Attributes of God explained. 3 Attributes of God the Father. 4 Son. 6 holy▪ Ghost. 8 B. Blessed man who he is. ●2 Blessings of God for the Godly. 73. 79 Blessings pronounced by the Godly. 83 C. Callings of men two-sold. 117 Comforts for afflicted persons. 38 for repentant sinners. 76 in place of sorrow. 102 Conscience what it is. 105 Conscience accusing. 106 Contention. 140 Covenant-breakers, 114 covetousness. 123 Curses pronounced. 92 D. deaths Titles. 173 Death of the Godly. 175 Death of the wicked. 174 Deceit. 131 Decree of God. 17 Derision wicked. 138 Derision Godly. 139 Devils Titles. 167 Devils Temptings. 95 Discords. 140 Disobedience. 149 dreams. 159 drunkenness. page.. 118 E. Election what it is. 17 Election is of Gods mercy. 22, 23 Election of few: many called. 21 Election of younger before the elder. 21 Emulation. 140 envy. 144 evil how permitted of God. 94 evil with evil punished. 97 F. Faith what it is. 157 faithfulness. 133 False witness bearing punished. 128 Feasts. 171 fear: 104 Few elected: many called. 22 fidelity. 133 Fornication. 121 Free-will. 24 G. God is Jehovah. 1 Gods presence. 11 Good with good rewarded. 100 Godly parents; wicked children. 106 Gifts given to holy uses. 109 Guile. 131 H. Heart how heardened, 93 Hope what it is. 157 humility. 136 I. idleness. 116 idolatry. 111 infidelity. 155 Ingratitude. 151 Instruments of Gods wrath. 87, 89 Israelites Titles. 76 Judging one of another. 19 Justice of God. 83 L. Lots used. 45 Love of man to man. 146 Lying punished. 129 M. Mans troubles. 28 Mans purpose Gods disposing. 35 Men Godly how called. 57 Men wicked how called. 59 Merit. 23 Man what he is. 54 means are to be used. 41 mercy of God what it is. 65 M●rcie of God to sinners. 66 mercy of Christ to all forts. 127 mercy of man to man. 146 mercy and Justice of God. 77, 78 meekness. 136 Magistrates Titles. 166 Magistra●es Du●ie. 166 Ministers Titles. 162 Minister duty 164, 165 Mocking wicked. 138 Mocking ● Godly. 139 Mournings for the dead. 172 Murmurings. 155 murder punished. 119 Miracles of God. 26 O. Obedience. 159 Oppression. 12● P. Parents ●●●●ing, children punished. 102 Patie●●s. 148 Peace● 142 Place of sorrow: place of joy. 102 Prayer. 46 Predesti●●ation. 17 Presence of God. 11 Presence of Christ. 12, 13 Power of God. 26 Pride. 134 Providence of God. 28 P●rpos● of man, Gods disposing. 35 R. Rep●ntance what it is. 62 Repentance 〈…〉 vers sorts. 63 Repentance how s●id to be in God. 65 Reprobation. 17 Restitution. 127 Resurrection. 176 S. Sabbath-brea●●rs punished. 112 Sacrilegious p●rsons punished. 109 Satans Appellations. 167 Satans Temptings. 168 signs of Confirmation. 75 sin what it is. 50 sin of particular persons. 51 sin increased. 52 sin extenuated. 44 Sin punished where it was committed. 101 Sin of one punished in another. 102 One sin severely punished. 96 Sinners punished. 83 All Creatures for mans sin punished. 86 Sorrow Godly and wicked. 62 Slandering. 128 subtlety. 132 Swearing. 114 T. Tempting how said to be in God and The Devil. 94 Tenths due to the Levites. 108 The trinity described. 9 thankfulness. 152 Theft. 133 Titles of God the Father. 4, 5 Titles of God the Son. 6, 7 Titles of God the holy Ghost. 8, 9 Titles of Gods Word. 14 Titles of Godly men. 57 Titles of Wicked men. 59 Titles of The Israelites. 76 Titles of Wicked Ministers. 162 Titles of Godly Ministers. 163 Titles of Magistrates. 166 Titles of The devil. 167 Titles of Death. 173 Tyranny of Tyrants. 170 V. vows made and performed. 115 vows made and broken. 114 Usurie unlawful. 125 W. Warres. 169 Will-worshippers punished. 108 Woes pronounced. 92 Word of God how powerful. 17 Worship of God how it ought to be. 107 FINIS.