Prayer and Praise. A Twofold TRIBUTE, TO BE Paid by all Loyal Subjects TO THEIR SUPREME, AND Subordinate Sovereign.  
A Subject entered upon April 23, 1661. being the Day of the solemn Inauguration of King Charles the II. and finished the Lord's Day following.  
AS It was delivered to the Church of God at Great YARMOUTH.  
By john Brinsley, Minister of the Gospel there.  
LONDON, Printed for john Tuthill, Bookseller in Yarmouth, 1661.   

TO All the Loyal Subjects OF Their Supreme, and Subordinate SOVEREIGN, IN THE Town of Great Yarmouth, GRACE. and PEACE.  
(Much esteemed in the Lord),  
WHat signal Testimonies of your real and cordial affection to your dread Sovereign, King Charles the second, you have lately given, as at his happy Restauration to the exercise of his Regal Government in this and the Neighbour-Nations, so now again on the day of his Royal Coronation; my Eyes and Ears, among many others, have been witnesses. And, according to my bounden Duty, it hath been my desire and endeavour to pour some Oil upon this flame, by making choice of such Subjects to preach upon at those Seasons, as I apprehended to be very suitable to those Solemnities. The former of which (entered upon June 28, 1660. and afterwards prosecuted in divers Sermons,) was that of the Psalmist, Psal. 118.22, 23. where we find mention made of a Stone, which being first rejected, was afterwards advanced. The Stone which the Builders refused, is become the Headstone of the Corner: This is the Lord's doing, and it is marvellous in our Eyes. Which how fitly it agreed, as to David in a Metaphorical, and to Christ in a Mystical sense; so also to our dread Sovereign, aptly expressing the great and wonderful Change, as of theirs, so of his Condition: as also what use they who hear of the one, and behold the other, are to make of both, I then showed you. The other is this of the same Pen, which writing after the like manner, giveth an account to the World of a twofold Tribute, that should be paid to King Solomon as the Shadow, and to King Jesus as the Substance▪ viz. Prayer and Praise. Both which being due from all Subjects to their lawful and Gracious Sovereigns; are not to be detained, but readily yielded. And so let th●m be by you, as unto Jesus Christ your Supreme; so to his Servant, your subordinate Head and Governor under Him. Which that they may be, I do here present you all with what some, and many, of you lately heard touching the latter of these (wanting leisure to transcribe the former): desiring that it may make a deep impression upon your Spirits, so as being minded of this your Duty, you may approve yourselves truly Loyal Subjects unto both. Thi● that you may do, shall be the prayer of him, who i●  
Your Servant in the Lord, john Brinsley. From my Study, May 3, 1661.   

Prayer and Praise. A Twofold TRIBUTE TO BE Paid by all Loyal Subjects TO THEIR SUPREME, AND Subordinate Sovereigns.  PSAL. 72.15. 
Prayer also shall be made for him continually, and daily shall he be praised.  
AS this whole Psalm by the greatest part of Orthodox Expositors is, so this parcel of it, which I have now singled forth as suitable to the present solemnity, may be looked upon two ways. 1. Literally, th●n Mystically. Literally, as relating to King Solomon; Mystically, as relating to King jesus, of whom Solomon was a Type. And both these ways sha●l I (through ●od's assistance) in the handling of it look upon it: Beginning with the former.  
The Literal sense▪ look upon the words as relating to King Solomon. So doth this whole Psalm, as we may take notice from the Title of it, where we find it inscribed Leselomo, Ipsi Selomo, to, or for Solomon; that is, a Psalm (or a Prayer) for him. A prayer composed and made by David, for that his Son, who was to succeed him in his Kingdom: The last prayer of that kind that he made for him, or any other. So much is hinted to us in the Epilogue, the close and conclusion of it; where it is said, The Prayers of David the son of Jesse are ended▪ Intimating that this was the last of those set and solemn prayer, which was composed by David not long before his Death, and by him left as a Depositum, a Legacy for his son Solomon, to whom he wished all the blessings that Heaven and Earth could afford him. And so looking upon these words which I have now read, we may take notice from them of a twofold Tribute, which as it is due, so it will readily be paid by all Loyal Subjects to a gracious Sovereign, viz. Prayer and Praise. Prayer for him; [Prayer also shall be made for him continually]; Praise of him, [And daily shall he be praised.] Deal we with these two severally; beginning with ●he former.  
Prayer also shall be made for hi●●ontinuall●▪] Wherein we may take notice of two particulars, Quid and Quando. The Tribute itself which is to be paid, and the time when and how oft it is to be paid. The Tribute itself, Prayer; The time when and how oft it is to be paid, Continually: Briefly of each.  
1. For the Tribute itself, that is, Prayer: Prayer is a Tribute due from every man to all men. So it is upon a Christian account, as the Apostle chargeth it in that known Text, 1 Tim. 2.1. I exhort therefore (saith he) that first of all Supplications, Prayers, Intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉; All kinds of Prayers made for all kinds of men, according to their occasions and necessities, of what Nation, State, Quality, or Condition soever; Be they Jews or Gentiles, Christians or Pagans▪ good or bad, Friend's or Enemies, rich or Poor, public or private persons, Prayer is ● common Tribute due unto all. But among all, in a special manner to ●ing● and Princes: Them the Apostle maketh mention of, in the 〈◊〉 〈◊〉; For Kings, and all that ar● in Authority▪ Rulers and Governors▪ Supreme, and Subordinate. To ●hem belongeth this Tribute after a ●●●cial ma●ner. So King D●●i●● looked upon it, who making and sending forth a Decree for the advancing and furthering of the great work which the Jews had then in hand, the rebuilding of the Temple at jerusalem; he taketh order that they should be accommodated and furnished with all such things as were requisite for the due administration of their public Worship and Service, expecting that they should pay this Tribute unto him, and his, remembering them in their prayers. So we find it, Ezra 6.10. That which they have need of, etc. let it be given them day by day without fail, That they may offer Sacrifices of a sweet savour to the God of Heaven, and pray for the life of the King, and of his Sons. This may all Kings and Princes expect and look for as a Tribute due unto them from their Subjects. And this Christians are willingly and readily to pay to them.  
Yea, though they be such as deserve no such Tribute from them by any good Office which ●hey have done to them. Though they be wicked and ungodly Kings, Enemies both to God and them. Such a one was King I●r●b●am, one of the worst of Kings, whom we find stigmatised with this brand, Who did sin, and made Israel to Sin, 1 King. 14.16. He did Sin himself▪ this he did as in other waye●, so specially by setting up an Idolatrous Worship, making those two golden Calves, the one of which he set up in Bethel, and the other in Dan (as we find it), 1 King. 12.28, 29. And he made Israel to Sin, by causing the People of God within his Dominio●s to leave the Temple of the Lord, and to worship those Calves whom he had set up, which thing became a Sin, as to him, so to them (as it there followeth), ver. 30. And in this Sin of his he was obstinate, insomuch that when the Man of God, by a special Command from God himself, came and prophesied against his Altar at Bethel; he was enraged against him, putting forth his hand, either to lay hold of him himself, or to stir up those who were the standers by to apprehend him, which he calleth out to them to do (as the Story tells us), 1. King. 13.4. Yet, notwithstanding this, when God had executed that Judgement upon him, causing his hand to whither and dry up; at his entreaty the Man of God refused not to pray for him, He besought the Lord, and the King's hand ●as restored again, and became as it was before (so it there followeth), ver. 6. And the like Office● are Christians, both Ministers and People, to be ready to do to the worst of Kings, though Enemies to God and Them, doing unto them all the evil Office●●hat lieth in their power; yet are they not to forbear praying for them: Pray for them that despitefully use you, Luke 6. 28. Such were the Rulers and Governors in the Apostle's time; the Roman Emperors, being then Heathen, they were Enemies to the Church, cruel and bloody persecutors of the Saints, Lions (as Paul is conceived to call Nero, ● Tim. 4.17.) Insomuch that some haply might make it a Question, whether they ought to pray for such as they were, or rather pray against them: but the Apostle here resolveth that doubt by instancing particularly in them; Pray for all men, etc. For Kings, and all that are in Authority. Be they what they will, so long as their Authority is just: though they be Tyranni exercitio, Tyrants as to the exercise of their Power; so long as they are not so Titulo, their Title being just and right, they are to be prayed for by those that are under their Government: Such is the Apostles Precept.  
And such was the practice of the Primitive Saints: They were very conscientious in the paying of this Tribute; constantly, solemnly and seriously putting up prayers in the behalf of those Roman Emperors under whose Government they lived; notwithstanding they were such as I spoke of, cruel and bloody persecutors of the Church. So much we may take notice of, from that known and remarkable passage of that ancient Father Tertullian, 
Tertull. Apolog.  who setteth forth what their manner then was in their public meetings, Illuc suspicientes (saith he) lifting up our Eyes to Heaven, Nos Christiani, manibus expansis, quia innocui, We Christians with hands spread abroad, being conscious of our own Innocency, Capite nudo quia non erubescimus, With heads uncoverd, as not having any cause to blush; denique sine monitore, quia de pectore oramus pro omnibus Impera●oribus, Without any other Monitor, to prompt or help us save only our own hearts and spirits; we pray for all Kings and Emperors, begging for them Vitam prolixam, Imperium securum, etc. A long Life, a secure Governments, etc. Thus did they readily pay this Tribute to those Emperors, ●ough Heathen▪ and bloody persecutors of them and their Religion.  
And if this be to be paid ●nto such; how much more to Gracious Sovereigns, to good Kings and Prince, such as are virtuous and pious, wise and just, merciful and ●ender hearted towards their Subjects, Friends both to Church and State, Nursing F●●her to both, such a● God promiseth to give unto his Church in the 〈◊〉 days, Esay 49▪ 23. Being such Rulers, such Governors, now those who are under thei● Government, receiving so many and great benefits by it as they do, they stand engaged after a special manner to be earnest with God on their behalf; to pray for them. And this, being true Christians, they will readily do: Prayer shall be made for him, (saith David here speaking of his son Solomon). He being a wise and a good Prince, he made no question, but that his People, his Loyal and Obedient Subjects, would be ready to pour out their prayers on his behalf.  
2. Yea, and that Continually: There is the second particular which here we take notice of; the Time when, and how often this Tribute is to be paid. Tamith, jugiter, Always, Continually. 
〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉   
So it is, God's People should be frequent and constant: Praying always. So they are directed by our Saviour to do, Luke 18.1. who is there said to speak a Parable to his Disciples, (viz. that of the importunate widow), to this end, that men ought always to pray. And again, Luke 21.36. Watch ye therefore, and pray always. And so Paul calleth upon his Ephesians to do, Eph. 6.18. Praying always. And so upon his Colossians, Col. 4.2. Continue in prayer. And w●iting to his Thessalonians, he requireth them to pray without ceasing, 1 Thess. 5.17. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, that is, incessantly, constantly: not that Christians are to spend all their time in prayer, and do nothing else (as the Euchites, and some other Heretics of old have thought and taught), but that they should be ready to pray upon all occasions. Thus are they to pray for themselves; inasmuch as they stand in continual need of God's assistance and help, either to bestow upon them some good things which they want, or to free and deliver them from such evils as they feel or fear, they are to pray Continually. And thus are they to pray for others; especially such as in a special manner stand charged upon their prayers. Thus did Paul pray for the Churches▪ Praying always for you (so he tells his Colossians), Col. 1.3. And the like his Thessalonians; We give thanks to God always for you all▪ making mention of you in my prayers, 1 Thess. 1.2. And the like are Ministers to do For their People, and People for their Ministers; Parents for their Children, and Children for their Parents. And so are Subjects to do for their Sovereigns; they being their Political Fathers, Pa●res patriae, Fathers of their Country, they are upon all occasions to be mindful of them, praying for them, and that continually.  
And truly great Reason there is why this Tribute should be thus paid unto them; considering,  
First, The great need that they have of it. 
Reas. 1.  What the Apostle saith to his He●rews concerning Patience, Hebr. 10.36. Ye have need of Patience, may truly be said of Kings and Princes concerning Prayers; they have need of them, great need; yea, greater need than others. So they have, and that both in respect of their Persons, and Government.  
1. For their Persons, they are exposed to greater dangers than others. So they are, and that both in their Bodies and Souls.  
1. In their Bodies: Besides those 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, those trials, common to men; Infirmities, Diseases, Casualties, which they are subject to as well as others, they have many Enemies. As Paul saith it was with him, that he had 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, many Adversaries, 1 Cor. 16.9. So must they, if they be good Kings and Governors, make account to meet with many Enemies; some open, others secret; some out of envy, others out of malice; some envying their greatness, others maligning their goodness. Upon these accounts, they may have more Enemies than others of inferior rank. And that so much the more, by how much the better they are: Being such as are truly virtuous and pious, such as will own God's Religion and his People, such as will countenance virtue and piety, and discountenance vice and impiety; now they shall want no Wasps, no Enemy's. And those, it may be, some of them cruel and deadly, who will not only speak evil of them, but be ready to act all kind of mischief against them. Such was David's Condition, whom we may hear frequently complaining of his Enemies. Of the multitude of them, They compassed me about like Bees, Psal. 118.12. Of the malice of them, how they hated him without a cause, They that hate me without a Cause, are more than the hairs of my Head, Psal. 69.4. Yea, and they hated him with a cruel hatred, Psal. 25.19. Not only reproaching him, and speaking evil of him: As with a sword in my bones, my Enemy's reproach me, Psal. 42. 10. But wishing evil to him, wishing his Death; Mine Enemies speak evil of me, When shall he die, and his Nam● perish, Psal. 41.5? And wi●hing it, they designed it, laying snares for him; They also that seek after my life, lay snares for me, Psal. 38.12. Attempting his destruction, They that would destroy me, being mine Enemies wrongfully are mighty, Psal. 69. 4. And the like, must pious Kings and Princes look for; being such as David was, men after God's own heart, they will want no Enemies, nor their Enemy's malice. So as, upon this account, their dangers are more and greater than others: They are so as to their Bodies.  
2. And (secondly) as to their Souls: Being exposed to more and greater Temptations than others. So it is, high Towers feel more of the Wind and Wether than lower Cottages. And so it is with men of high Place, they are exposed to more and greater Temptations than those of lower condition. The Devil never thought he had our Saviour at so great an advantage, as when he had got him upon the Pinnacle of the Temple. And surely, of all other, none are more exposed to Satan's Temptations, than those who are set in places of Eminency; High places are slippery places. Thus have Supreme Governors great need of prayers greater than others, in respect of their Persons, being subject to more and greater dangers than others, and that both in their Bodies and Souls.  
2. And (secondly) as they have need hereof in respect of their Persons, so of their Government; which lieth as a he●vy weight upon their Shoulder. So the Government of Christ is said to do upon his, Esay 9.6. The Government shall be upon his Shoulder. And so doth the Government of Temporal Kings and Princes, The Government lieth upon their Shoulders. The Shoulder is the ordinary part of the Body that is used for the bearing of heavy and weighty burden. Leight burdens are carried in the hand, but weighty ones upon the Shoulder: And such is the Government which is committed to Kings and Princes; though it be an honourable burden, yet a burden it is, and that a weighty one. So it is, where the trust which is reposed in them is faithfully discharged: However, some there are, and that too many, who divide these two which God hath joined together, the Hon●s and the Onus; As for the Honour of Government, with all the Profits and Revenue● belonging thereunto, that they greedily grasp; but as for the burden, that they cast off: Yet so is it not with good and gracious Sovereigns, their Crowns sit heavy upon their Heads, their Heads and Hearts being filled and taken up with a constant care, and solicitude for the procuring of the peace and welfare, tranquillity and happiness of those that are committed to their Charge. Now their burden being so great, they have need of a more than ordinary support for the bearing of it. They h●d need to be furnished with a more than ordinary stock of virtues a●d graces for the discharge of this their Trust. This our Solomon, the wisest of Kings, was well aware of: And therefore, when being newly come to his Kingdom, God made him a proffer, that he should ask what he would have him to give him, he begs nothing but an understanding heart, 1 King. 3.7, 8, 9 And now, O Lord my God, (saith he) thou hast made thy Servant King in stead of David my Father: And I am but a little Child, (not in respect of years, for he had at this time a Son, as we find it, Chap. 14. 2●. but in respect of that wisdom which was requisite for the managing so great a Trust as was committed to him), I know not how to go out, or to come in. And thy Servant is in the midst of thy People, which thou hast chosen, a great People that cannot be numbered nor counted for multitude. Give therefore thy Servant an understanding heart to ●udge thy People, that I may discern between good and bad; for who is able to judge this thy so great a People? And this also David his Father was very sensible of: And therefore the chief thing that he wisheth him, is this, Only the Lord give thee Wisdom and understanding, 2 Chron. 22.12. Kingly Government being so great a Charge, it calleth for a large heart, for the right managing of it. Such a heart God is said to give unto this King Solomon; God gav● Solomon Wisdom, and understanding exceeding much, and largeness of heart, 1 King. 4.29. And such hearts in measure, supreme Governors had need to have: And therefore upon this account they have need of prayers, of instant and earnest prayers, to be prayed for by their Subjects, and that Continually.  

Reas. 2.  And as they have need of prayers in respect of their Persons and Government, so have Christians need to put up these prayers for them, and that upon their own account, as needful for themselves. So they have; considering what an interest they have in their Supreme Governors, and how much their welfare depends upon them▪ upon their right managing of their Government. Their welfare (I say), and that both Temporal and Spiritual; both which have a great dependence upon the Supreme Governor of a Nation: who if he be wise and faithful, now he is a great blessing unto his People, so as they are blessed in him. So saith David of this his son Solomon in the verse next but one after the Text, ver. 17. Men shall be blessed in him. They should count themselves happy in such a King, expecting all kind of blessings through him; Blessings (as I said) both Temporal and Spiritual, both which should be the fruit of his Government. So much David here in this Psalm maketh promise of to the People under the Government of this his son Solomon. He being a righteous Governor, there should be peace and plenty in his Dominions. So we have it, ver. 3. The Mountains shall bring peace to the People, and the little Hills by righteousness. There should be peace under his Government; which accordingly there was, as we find it, 1 King. 4.25. judah and Israel dwel● safely, every man under his Vine, and under his Figtree; from Dan even to Beersheba, all the days of Solomon. And as Peace, so Plenty; So the sixth verse in this Psalm promiseth, He shall come down like rain upon the mown Grass, as showers that water the Earth. And again, ver. 16. in the words nex● after the Text, There shall be an handful of Corn in the Earth upon the top of the Mountains, the fruit thereof shall shake like Lebanon, and they of the City shall flourish like Grass of the Earth. There should be in that Kingdom an exceeding great plenty of Corn and other Fruits of the Earth, with a great increase both of Men and Cattle: Thus should his Subjects abound in Temporal; and as in Temporal, so in Spiritual blessings. True piety and godliness should flourish under his Government, so the fifth ve●se hath it: They shall fear thee as long as the Sun and Moon endure, throughout all Generations. Fear thee● that is, thou O God, relating to the first verse, Thy Religion shall be settled and established, and true piety and godliness shall prosper and flourish. In his Days shall the Righteous flourish (saith the seventh verse), and abundance of peace so long as the Moon endureth.  
Such are the blessings of a righteous Government: And are not all these worthy of the prayers of those who live under it? that they should be instant and earnest with God in the behalf of those whom he hath set over them? Upon this account the Apostle in that Text forecited, 1 Tim. 2.2. exhorts Christians, not to be wanting in this Duty. Pray for Kings, etc. That we may lead a quiet and a peaceable life, in all godliness and honesty. These are the chief blessings that Christians are to desire, or indeed can desire upon Earth; that they may live a quiet and peaceable life, as to Temporals; and that they may live in all Godliness and Honesty, as to Spirituals. Now these are no where to be enjoyed so well, as under a just and righteous Government. And therefore it behoveth them who would have their share in these blessings, to cast this Tribute into the common Treasury, to contribute their prayers and supplications, seeking God in the behalf of their Governors, that God would protect them, direct them, assist them, giving his Judgements to them, that so they may rule his People in his fear.  
Thus you see what Reasons there are why Christians should readily and willingly pay this Tribute to those whom God hath set over them; why they should pray as for all in Authority, so in a special manner for those who are Supreme, which Kings are within their Dominions (as St. Peter tells us, 1 Pet. 2.13). Not to dwell any longer upon the Doctrinal part; That which remains of thi● is Application: which let it be directed only two ways, by way of Reprehension, Exhortation.  

Use 1.  By way of Reprehension: Is this a D●ty which God expecteth and requireth, that Subjects should thus pray for their Sovereigns; what shall we then say to those, who instead of praying for them, pray against them, and it may be seek to make a prey of them. Amongst which there are some that are averse to the Calling to the Office, wishing that there were no such thing as a King upon Earth. Such spirits there have been of late times, who in a direct opposition to the People of Israel, whom no Governor would content but a King, they have at least seemed averse to Monarchical Government, as being inconsistent with the Government of Christ, insomuch that they would by no means endure that the Supreme Government of this Nation should be in a single Person. A King! the very Title was odious unto them: which whilst it was, surely they had forgotten that Promise which informs us and them, what benefit the Church may expect from Kings in the latter daye●, Esay 49.23. King's shall be thy Nursing Fathers, and Queens thy Nursing Mothers. As also that Prophecy which acquaints us, how the Ten Kings (at least some of them) should hate the Whore, and make her desolate; be the chief Instruments in the destruction of Anti-christ, Rev. 17.16.  
Others, though not averse to the Calling; yet it may be they are so to the Persons in whose hands the Government is, hating and maligning them, though without any just cause, as David saith his Enemies did him, Psal. 35.19. And being thu● disaffected t● them, in stead of wishing well, they are ready ●o wish ill to them: They tu●n their Appreciations into Imprecations. In stead of praying for them, they are ready to curse them, as that dead Dog Shimei did David, for which Abishai judged him worthy to die, Because he cursed the LordsLords Anointed, 2 Sam. 19.21. A thing which our King Solomon, the wisest of Kings, gives a Caution against, bidding all to beware of it, Curse not the King, no not in thy thought, Eccles. 10. ult.  
2. A second fort there are who, it may be, profess affection, yea great affection to the persons of their Sovereigns, so as they think themselves, and would have others so to think of them, to be in the number of their best Subjects; yet they make no conscience of paying this Tribute to them. Other Tribute haply they are willing and ready to pay (which I wish all were); ay, it may be that which is not called for▪ even as it is said of the Kings of the East, that they should do unto King Solomon, ver. 10. The Kings of Tars●ish, and of the Isles shall bring Presents, the Kings of Sheba and Seba shall over Gifts. So will they, it may be, be ready upon occasion to show like respects to their Sovereign, presenting him with Gifts, thereby, as by other ways, to declare their affections. But, in the mean time, Where are their Prayers? their hearty and affectionate prayers unto God for him, which are more worth than all other Gifts they can present him with. And are there not some others (too many), who think there is no such way to declare their affection to their Sovereign, as by drinking and Carouzing of Healths to him, drinking by measure without measure? Which however they cannot but take notice how disrelishing a Sacrifice it is unto him to whom it is offered (which he hath sufficiently declared to them and to the World); yet will they obtrude and thrust it upon him. Here are their Healths; but in the mean time where are their Prayers? their serious and affectionate requests put up unto God on his behalf? Possibly they will, when they hear a form of prayer read for him in public, be ready to say Amen to it. But when was the time, or where is the place that ever they fell upon their knees in private to seek God for him? Alas, very far are they from doing what David here saith his Son Solomon's good Subjects should do unto him; Pray for him, and that Continually. In truth they cannot be said to pray for him at all; Prayer being an exercise which they have no acquaintance with, save only the outside of it. But turn we the Reprehension into a word of Exhortation.  
Which let it be directed to all of us who would be accounted loyal and faithful Subjects; see that we be not wanting in this Duty, 
Use 2.  in paying of this Tribute to our now dread Sovereign King Charles the Second, whom God by his Providence and Ordinance hath set over us, restoring him in a wonderful way to his just Right of Government in and over this and the Neighbour-Nations. Withhold we not this due from him, Render therefore to all their deuce, Tribute to whom Tribute (faith the Apostle), Rom. 13.7. Being rightful Governors, the Tribute which is by Law due unto them, is not to be withheld from them, but to be paid in a conscientious way. And so let this best of Tributes, this Tribute of Prayer be paid by us, by all of us unto our Sovereign: Let prayer be made for him, and that Continually.  

Arg. 1.  Which as it is his due, so it is a Service acceptable ●nto God. So much our Apostle tells us in that Text which I have before had recourse unto, 1 Tim. 2.3. where having put Christians upon this duty of praying, in a general way for all men (all sorts of men), and in a special way for Kings, and such as are in Authority, he subjoins, For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, good in itself, and to God wellpleasing. Now such are the things which Christians are to set themselves to do, such things as are wellpleasing in his sight (a● St. john hath it), 1 joh. 3.22. So as were there no other Argument but this, this alone should be sufficient to put Christians upon this Duty.  

Arg. 2.  But besides this, consider (what hath in the general been shown us) the need which he to whom this Tribute is to be paid, hath of it; what need our dread Sovereign hath of Prayers. Which he hath, and that not only upon those general accounts of his Person and Government, which are common with him to all other Princes, but in respect of his present Condition, and the condition of the Nations over which he is set; which having lain for so long a time under such sad Distractions as they have done, he who is to be under God the chief Physician, the chief Instrument for the healing of them, had need of a more than ordinary direction and assistance in this so great and difficult a Work.  

Arg. 3.  To this add, As our Prayers are needful for him, so they will be profitable unto us. Water being poured at the Root, the Branches receive the benefit of it: Oil being in a good quantity poured out upon the Head, it runneth down, not only to the Beard, but to the Skirts of the Garment, (as it is said of Aaron, Psal. 133.2.) And the Dew or Rain falling upon the Mountains, maketh the Valleys fruitful (as it there followeth). Thus the blessings of Heaven being poured out upon the Supreme Head of a Nation; there is not the meanest member of it, but may be the better for it. And upon this account may Subjects well be induced to pray for their Sovereigns, what ever they be: upon this account the Lord willeth his People, the People of the Jews, to pray for Babylon; Jer. 29.7. Pray unto the L●rd for it, for in the peace thereof ye shal● have peace. So it was; their welfare, whilst they had their residence there, was enwrapped in the quiet and welfare of that State, as the safety of Passengers is in the Vessel wherein they are embarked. And even so is the welfare of Subjects in a great measure enwrapped and bound up in the welfare of their Sovereigns; as the safety of Passengers is in the skill and care of the Pilot that standeth at the Helm. And upon this account let not those who wish well to themselves, cease to make prayers on their behalf, but pray for them continually.  
And this do we for our dread Sovereign this day, being the day of his Solemn Inauguration; At which time, and upon which occasion, prayers have been used to be made. So we find it both ordered and practised at the Coronation of this King spoken of in the Text, King Solomon, 1. King. 1. Where David appointing this his Son to be anointed King over-Israel by Zadok the Priest, and Nathan the Prophet; he ordereth, that for the greater Solemnity, the Trumpet should be blown, and that all should say, God save the King, ver. 34. which was accordingly done, as we find it, ver. 39 And Zadok the Priest took a horn of Oil out of the Tabernacle, and anointed Solomon; and they blew the Trumpet, and all the People said, God save King Solomon. And the like let all the People in this Nation at this day do; not only those who are present at this Solemnity, but those who are at a distance from it: Taking notice of it let them, and us, all join in this Appr●●ation, and say, God save King Charles the Second.  
And this do we not merely in a formal way and manner, (as the Acclamation● of the People too often are, being nothing but the breathe of their mouths); but do it seriously and cordially, in an affectionate way, heartily begging fo● him the Lords Salvation, th●t God would direct him in the business of the day, and make it a happy day to him, and to this Nation.  
And this, do we not this day only▪ Let not our prayers be (as the prayers of ●oo many are) an 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉▪ the service of a day, but pray we for him continually. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, (as Paul there hath it, Eph. 6.18.) Omni tempore, at all times and seasons, in public, in private▪ as we have occasion to make our solemn addresses unto God, le● him be remembered.  
The best Service that we can do for h●m, the best Tribute th●t we can pay unto him. This is all that Paul beggeth of the Churches in his own behalf, Brethren, pray for u●▪ 1 Thess. 5. 2●. and a Thess. ●. 1. A●d again (if that Epistle be his), Heb●. 13.18. Pray for u●. Where this Tribute is duly paid, other Trib●●● will't no● b● with holde●. The praying Christian is conscientious, and so will not with h●ld from any man that which is his d●e; which if he should, he cannot expect that his prayers should be heard.  
And this is a Tribute that all may pay: They who have no other Presents to bring to their Prince, no Gold of Ophir or S●eba, to present him with (which is here said to be given to King Solomon); yet they may have this Frankincense and Myrrh, the sweet Odours of their prayers to put up unto God on his behalf. Now such as they have, let them give; as Peter said to that poor Cripple, lying at the beautiful Gate of the Temple, begging an Alms of him, Acts 3.6. Silver and Gold have I none, but such as I have I give thee; a better gift then that which thou desirest, viz. that which Christ hath given me power freely to distribute, the restoring of thy Limbs. And the like let all God's People do to their Sovereign; such as have not the opportunity or ability of doing service to him in other ways; such as they have, let them give. Having a praying spirit given them of God, let them make use of it in his behalf.  

Quest.  But what is it that we are to pray for on his behalf?  

Answ.  For resolution, I might send you to that ancient Father Tertullian, who in that place forementioned giveth us an account of what things they were that the Christians in his time were wont in their prayers to beg for their Sovereigns. Oramus pro omnibus Imperatoribus, We pray for all Emperors, that God would give them, Vitam prolixam, a long life, Imperium securum, a secure Empire, Domum tutam, a safe Habitation, Exercitus fortes, valiant Armies, Senatum fidelem, a faithful Counsel, Populum probum, a good People, Orbem quietum, a quiet World, & quaecunque Hominis, & Caesaris vota sunt, and what ever good things Caesar himself, or any other can wish. And all these let us beg for this our dread Sovereign, that God would bless him with all kinds of Blessings, blessings of his right hand and left, blessings Spiritual and Temporal.  
Spiritual, that God would write all his Laws in his heart, giving him his Judgements; which is David's prayer for his son Solomon, verse first of this Psalm; Give the King thy judgements, O God, and thy Righteousness to the Kings Son. That so he may be such a King as the Lord maketh promise of unto his People, Esay. 32.1. Behold, a King shall R●ign in Righteousness, and Princes shall Rule in judgement. That God would give him an upright, a perfect heart; such a heart as King Hezekiah had, that so he may walk before him, as he did; and be able at the finishing his course to appeal unto him, as he doth, Esay 38.3. Remember now, O Lord, I beseech thee, how I have walked before thee in truth, and with a perfect heart▪ and have done that which is good in thy sight. And as an upright, so a wise and a large heart. Such a heart God gave unto this King Solomon (as you heard), 1 King. 4.29. And this was the chief blessing that his Father David begged for him, 1 Chron. 22. 12. Only the Lord give thee wisdom and understanding, and give thee Charge concerning Israel, that thou mayest keep the Law of the Lord thy God. And that he in whose hand the hearts of Kings are, (The King's heart is in the hand of the Lord, as the Rivers of Water; ●e turneth it whithersoever he will, as Solomon tells us, Prov. 21.1.) would hold the heart of this his anointed Servant in his own hand, making use of him as an happy Instrument, as in other Services, so in building his House. This David there beggeth for, and of, his son Solomon, in the verse foregoing, 1 Chron. 22.11. Now my Son, the Lord be with thee, and prosper thou, and build the House of the Lord thy God. Oh that the Lord's Anointed amongst us may do the like! Thus beg we for him these right-hand blessings, spiritual blessings: And this do we in the first place.  
Then do we the like for lefthand, Temporal blessings: That God would bless him in his Person and Government.  
In his Person, multiplying his Days: Pray for the life of the King (as that Text forecited hath it), Ezra 6.10. Let the King live forever (saith Nehemiah to Artaxerxes), Neh. 2.3. And Daniel to Darius, Dan. 6.21. Thou wilt prolong the King's life, and his years as many Generations, Psal. 61.6.  
In his Government: that that may be peaceable and happy; that God would perform unto him what he promised to David, Psal. 132.18. His Enemies will I cloth with shame, but upon himself shall his Crown flourish. As also that, in the verse foregoing; I will make the Horn of David to bud; I have ordained a Lamp for mine anointed, a Successor that should come out of his Loins. And that his Government may be prosperous to himself and others, beyond what the best of his Predecessors have been. This was the prayer of B●naiah, which he made in the behalf of King Solomon at his Coronation, 1 King. 1.37. As the Lord hath been with my Lord the King, even so be he with Solomon, and make his Throne great●● then the Throne of my Lord King David. Wherein he was seconded by Solomon's Servants, ver. 47. who coming to David, after his Son Solomon was anointed King, they said unto him, God make the Name of Solomon better than thy Name, and make his Throne greater than thy Throne. To which David was ready to say Amen, declaring his assent, by bowing himself upon the Bed. These and all other blessings, which may be any ways requisite or expedient, let us beg in the behalf of our dread Sovereign; that he being thus blessed, and we blessed in him, may have cause to bless him.  
2. That is the other Tribute which David here in the Text saith should be paid unto his Son Solomon: His Subjects thus praying for him, they should also praise him; and so praise him, as they prayed for him, Continually,  
And daily shall he praised.] ●olha●om jebar●keneh●▪ Totâ (or omni) die benedicet ei. All the day long, or every day, his own People and others, should speak well of him, bless him. All Nations shall call him blessed, ver. 17.  
So did divers foreign Nations, whose Kings having he●rd of his Fame, ●ame to see him, bringing Presents unto him. So it is here foretold of some of them, ver. 10. of this Psalm; The Kings of T●rshish, and all the Isles shall bring Presents, the Kings of Sheba and Seba shall offer Gifts; Yea, all Kings shall fall down before him. And accordingly we find it verified in that illustrious Princess, the Queen of Sheba; who hearing of his Wisdom, came from her own Country to see him, and have some conference with him. Which having had, she departed fully satisfied, finding the reality of his worth far exceeding the report; which at her departure she acknowledged, as we find it, 1 King. 10.6, etc. And she said unto the King, It was a true report that I heard in mine own Land of thy Acts, and of thy Wisdom. Howbeit, I believed not the words until I came; and mine Eyes have seen it, and behold, the half was not told m●; thy wisdom and prosperity exceedeth the Fame which I heard▪ Blessed be the Lord thy God which delighteth in thee, to set thee on the Throne of Israel; because the Lord loved Israel for ever, therefore made he thee King to do justice and judgement. And she gave the King an hundred and twenty Talents of Gold, and Spices▪ very great sto●●, and precious Stones. Thus was he honoured, praised, and blessed of others.  
And so he was of his own Subjects, who being (as I said) blessed in him, blessed him. Even as he, speaking of good Wife, who is wise and careful in ordering the business of her Family, saith, Her Children rise up, and call her blessed; her Husband also, and he praiseth her, Prov. 3●. 28. So did his Subjects unto him, feeling the benefit of his wife and righteous Government; they called him blessed, daily praising of him. Thus was this Tribute paid unto him.  
And so let it be by us to our Royal Sovereign. And that upon a double account; the Virtues which are eminent in him, and the Benefits which we have received from him: His virtues, which are truly praiseworthy. Such is the Patience▪ which he hath shown in bearing of so many, so great, so long continued Sufferings, as during his so many years exile he hath had experience of. And such is his Constancy in adhering to God's true Religion. Notwithstanding his case was much like unto David's, who complaining unto King Saul of his hard Usage from his malicious Enemies, saith, They have driven me out this day from abiding in the Inheritance of the Lord, saying, Go serve other gods, 1 Sam. 26.19. Being by their means driven and kept out of his own Land, where he enjoyed the Ordinances of God freely, he was forced to wander from place to place, from Country to Country, to have his abode in Idolatrous Nations; By which doing of theirs, they did as much in them lay, force and compel him to turn Idolater. And even such hath been the condition of this our dread Sovereign, and that for many years together; yet, through the good providence of God watching over him, he hath continued constant to his Religion, as David did. To these add his Sobriety and Temperance, wherein he is exemplary to his Subjects, setting a Copy for them to write after. As also his Moderation and Meekness, which he hath declared by granting such indulgence to consciences truly tender, which he would not have pressed under the burden of offensive & unnecessary observances; as by desiring and endeavouring an accommodation of differences▪ that there might be (as to matters of lesser concernment) a Christian compliance amongst persons of different persuasions. To which, annex his Lenity and Gentleness, in not taking all just advantages against all such as by whom he hath unjustly suffered. To all which, add the Zeal which he hath shown against those Epidemical Sins of Swearing and Drunkenness, which through too much indulgence have been sorife in this Nation. These, and other the like Virtues, they call for this Tribute to be paid unto him. And so do all those blessings and benefits, which since his return we enjoyed under his Government: For which let him, under God, be praised.  
And oh that the Lord may so bless him for the future, that he may yet be made a greater blessing unto his People in this and the Neighbour-Nations; that they sitting quietly under his shadow, may enjoy the Gospel of peace, and the peace of the Gospel, havi●● all the Ordinances of God continued to them with Liberty and Purity. That so they, being blessed in him, may bless God for him; giving unto God as the Author, and to him as the Instrument, the praise and honour which is due unto both. But I want time to prosecute what I have only propounded: And so shall take leave of the Literal sense of the words in the Text, as relating to King Solomon. It remains that I should look upon them in their Mystical sense, as relating to King jesus, of whom Solomon was a Type. But this I shall adjourn to the next Occasion.   

The Second SERMON, April 28, 1661.  PSAL. 72.15. 
Prayer also shall be made for him continually, and daily shall he be praised.  
THese words (as you lately heard) may be looked upon two ways, Literally and Mystically. Literally, as relating to King Solomon; Mystically as relating to King jesus. With the former of these I have done. It now remains that I come to the latter, to look upon the words as relating unto Christ; of whom King Solomon was a Type.  
That he was so, I presume it will not be questioned by any who understand the meaning of his Name. Solomon, Pacifious, Peaceable▪ So we find it expounded, 1 Chron. 22.9. where the Lord giveth unto David the reason of imposing this Name upon this his Son: Behold (saith he) a Son shall b● born unto thee, who shall be a man of rest▪ and I will give him rest from all his Enemies round about: For his Name shall be Solomon, and I will give peace and quietness unto Israel in his days. Such a Prince was he; a Prince of peace, of a peaceable disposition, and under whose Government the Land had peace. And herein was he a Type of Christ, whom we find described to be such a Prince, having this Name given unto him, Esay 9.6. His Name shall be called, The Prince of Peace; Shir Shalom, the mystical Solomon. To which we may join that other name which was given unto Solomon, and that also by God himself; Who sending by the hand of Nathan the Prophet, called his name jedidiah, that is, beloved of the Lord, as we have it, 2 Sam. 12.24, 23. Which Name, how fitly it agreeth unto Christ, we may learn from that Voice from Heaven, which was heard at his Baptism; saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased, Matth. 3.17. This is Ies●s Christ the true Solomon.  
And being so▪ well may this Psalm (as the 45th, being much of the s●me ●●ture an● kind, without controversy h●●h) be conceived to have an ●ye at h●m. So it is agreed by all Christian expositors▪ However, some of them have made it a Question, whether it have an eye at Solomon at all, there being in it many expressions so highly Hyperbolical, as that they cannot conceive how they should agree to him, or any Mortal man whatever; yea, divers of those whom we account to be the best Interpreters, by their manner of Interpretation (applying it only to Christ), may seem to have thought little less: yet that it hath a respect unto Christ, and chiefly unto Him, it is on all hands agreed.  
And so shall I look upon this passage in it, which I have now in hand. Which acquaints us with a twofold Tribute due (as unto Solomon, so) unto Christ: Prayer and Praise▪ Prayer, [Prayer also shall be m●de for him continually.] Praise. [And daily shall he be praised.] Be●in we with the former.  
Prayer also shall be made for him continually]. Wherein again (as before I did), I shall take notice of those two particulars: The Tribute itself, Prayer; And the Time, when and how oft it is to be paid, Continually▪ Touch upon them severally.  
1. The Tribute itself, Prayer. [Prayer also shall be made for him.]  

Object.  But what? Prayer made for him, for Christ? How can this be? What, doth he stand in n●ed of our Prayers? that men upon Earth should make prayers for him being in Heaven? Here t●e Iew● fall foul upon us Christians, and jeer us, tha● we should expound this Psalm concerning our M●ssia; who if he be (what we believe him) God, how then can this passage agreed unto him, that prayers should be made for him? What, pray for our God? Prayers are to be put ●p to him, not fo● him.  
For answer to this: True it is, as it is with Saints and Angels, 
Answ.  so much more with jesus Christ, he being ascended into Heaven, and sitting at the right hand of his Father, Crowned with Honour and Glory, having all Power given to him in Heaven and Earth; He is far from needing the assistance of men, or any other Creature●. He needeth not our prayers; we have need, and that continual need, of his, of his Intercession, which he maketh for us (as the Apostle tells us), Rom. 8.34. But he hath no need of ours, no more than the greatest Monarch upon Earth hath to receive an Alms from the poorest Peasant. But though he hath no need of them, as to his own person; yet his Kingdom hath, his Church, which is as it were a part of himself, his Body▪ whereof he is the Head. He is the Head of the Body, the Church, Col. 1.18. his Mystical Body. Which in re●ard of the near relation it hath to him, is called sometimes by his Ne'er; as 1 Cor. 12.12. As the Body is one, and hath many members, etc. So is Christ And again, Gal. 3.16. Now to Abraham, and to his Seed were the promises made, etc. which Seed is Christ; meaning the Mystical Body of the Church, whereof Christ is the Head, and his Elect People the Members. Now though he being the Head, is out of the reach of our prayers, so as that they should be made for him: yet so are not his Members here upon Earth. And up●n that account prayers may fitly be said to be made for him, being made for his Kingdom.  
For which all hi● Subjects are to pray: So they are taught by Him himself in that Pattern and Form of prayer which he hath left them▪ After this manner pray ye, Hallowed be thy Name, thy Kingdom come, Matth. 6.10. The Kingdom of God, the Government whereof is committed to Jesus Christ as Mediator; this are his Subjects to pray for. His Kingdom, his Kingdom of Grace, his Kingdom of Glory; which are not properly two Kingdoms, but two different states of the same Kingdom: And for both these are prayers to be made.  
1. For his Kingdom of Grace, his Church upon Earth▪ which is visible, invisible. Visible in the Nations of the World; Invisible in the hearts of his Elect People: Both these are Christians to pray for.  
1. For his visible Kingdom; for which they are chiefly to ●eg two things, Preservation, Augmentation, both which are to be effected by the Power of Christ.  
1. Preservation, that it may be continued here upon Earth; which it shall be to the end of the Wo●ld, being defended and maintained by the power of Jesus Chris● against all the Enemies of it, whether Men or Devils. So he tell● Pe●er in that known Text, Matth. 16.18. [Thou art Peter, and upon this Rock will I build my Church, and th● Gates of Hell shall not prevail against it.] Upon this Rock, not the rock Confessing, but Confessed; not upon Peter, but upon that Confession which he had then made, ver. 16. Thou art Christ the Son of the living God, upon this Rock (●aith he) I will build my Church; as I have already laid the foundation of it, so will I ●arry on the building, upholding and preserving it, so as the Gates of Hell shall not prevail against i●; that is, all the pow●r and policy of Satan and his Instruments, (alluding to the custom of ancient times, wherein the Gates of Cities were the chief places of strength, and the ●●sual meeting places for the holding of Counsels), let them plot, and contrive, and attempt what they will; yet shall they not so far prevail against the Church as to destroy it, to extirpate and root it out from off the Earth: still Christ will have a visible Kingdom here upon Earth. And for this are all his Subjects ●o pray, that this his Kingdom may be thus continued. Which whilst they do, they may be said to make prayers for him.  
2. And a● they are to pray for the Preservation, so for the Augmentation; as for the continuance, so for the increase and inlargment of this Kingdom of Christ, that his Kingdom may come, that his S●●pter may be lifted up, his Government advanced, his Church enlarged, that it may be made a glorious Church. So it shall be in the latter days: For which we have many promises, and those very clear and full. As (among other) that of the Prophet Esay, Chap. 2. ver. 2, 3. (repeated by the Prophet Micah in the same terms, M●e. 4.1.) It shall come to pass in the last days, that the Mountain of the Lords House shall be established in the top of the Mountains; and shall be exalted above the Hills, and ●ll Nations shall flow unto it. [In the last Days], in the Gospel-times, the days of the Messiah, the last Age of the World; [The Mountain of the Lords House], the Church, whereof Moun● Zion, upon which the Temple was built, was a Type; [Shall be established in t●e top of th● Mountains, and exalted above the Hills]▪ it shall be settled and exalted, being in the spiritual glory of it advanced far above all secular States and Kingdoms in the World. [And all Nations shall flow unto it]▪ ●●ws and Gentiles out of all parts of the World shall by whole Flocks and Sho●ls come in and join themselves to the Church▪ embracing of the Gospel, and submitting themselves to the Government of Christ. And (as it there followeth, ver. 3. M●●y People shall go and say, Come ye, and let us go up to the Mountain of the Lord▪ to the House of the God of Iac●b, and he will teach us of his ways, and we will walk in his path●.  
This shall the People of the jews do, as (among many other) that Text of the Prophet Hosea clearly foretelleth it, Hos 3.4. The Children of Israel shall abide many days without a King, and without a Prince, and without a Sacrifice, etc. (having neither any form of a Commonwealth amongst them, nor yet the exercise of their Religion in that way and manner that formerly they had.) Afterwards they shall return and seek the Lord their God, and David their King; the true Messiah, the son of David, according to the Fl●sh, and of whom David was a Type. They shall seek after him and shall submit to his Government, taking and acknowledging him for their King. Th●y shall se●ve the Lord the●r God▪ and David their King (as the Prophet jeremy hath i●), I●r. 30. ver. 9 And as the jews▪ so the Gentiles; they shall also come in like manner. So the Prophet Esay most plainly foretelleth it, Esay 60. where setting forth the glory of the Church under the Gosspel in the abundant access of the Gentiles, he biddeth her arise▪ ver. 1. [Arise, shine, for thy light is come, and the glory of the Lord i● risen upon th●●. And ver. 3, 4. he tells her▪ And the Gentiles shall come to thy Light, and Kings to the brightness of thy coming. ● Lift up thine E●es round about and s●e, all they gather themselves together, they come to thee. And so he goeth on, ver. 9 Then thou shal● se●, and fl●w together▪ ●nd thine heart shall fear and be enlarged▪ because the 〈…〉 of the Sea shall be converted unto thee, the forces of the Gentiles shall come unto thee.] Such and so great should the confluence of People from all par●s of the World be that should join themselves to the Church, that it should be a matter of great admiration and wonder to them that should behold it. So he sets it forth, ver. 8. where ●e bring in the Church speaking after that manner▪ Who are these tha● fly as a Cloud, 〈◊〉 as the Do●e● to their Windows? Like as Clouds, which come ofttimes from ●emote quarters, ●eing driven swiftly by the Wind or, as D●v●s or Pigeons▪ that fly in great Flocks, and with much speed to their Dove-coa●●▪ such incomes should there be to the Church, which should be wonderfully augmented and increased. A prophecy which as yet hath not had the full accomplishment, so as it shall have in the time appointed. There is a day a coming when the Sceptre of Christ shall be advanced: In that day shall the Branch of the Lord be beautiful and glorious; so saith the Prophet Esay, Chap. 4. ver. 2. speaking of the Messiah, whom we find sometimes called a Branch, the Branch, as Zach. 3.8. I will bring forth my Servant the Branch. And again, Chap. 6. ver. 12. Behold the man, whose Name is the Branch; meaning the promised Messiah, springing from the root of jesse, and from whom all spiritual Graces and Blessings do spring, as leaves, and blossoms, and fruits do from the Branch. Of this Branch it is there said, it shall be beautiful and glorious. And so it shall be in that day, viz. when the Church shall be increased and enlarged as it shall be, all Nations being brought under the Government of Jesus Christ. Hereof God the Father maketh a Promise to his Son, Psal. 2.8. Ask of me, and I will give thee the Heathen for thi●e Inheritance, and the uttermost parts of the Earth for thy Possession; Not only the jews, but the Gentiles also. And this promise (as already in part it is, so) it shall be fully made good to him in the latter days, viz. after the destruction of Anti-christ. So we find it foretold, Rev. 11.15. where we read of a gratulatory Acclamation made by the People of God at that great alteration and change that should be made in the Church. And the seventh Angel sounded, and there were great Voices in Heaven, saying; The Kingdoms of this World are become the Kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ, and he shall Reign for ever and ever. The Roman Anti-christ being destroyed, now the Kingdom of Christ shall be enlarged; his visible Church shall be like an Empire, spreading through the World, and lasting to the end of it.  
Thus it shall be, the Kingdom of Christ upon Earth shall be a glorious Kingdom, his Church shall be settled and established, and it shall prosper and flourish, it shall be made a praise in the Earth. And for this are all that profess themselves the Subjects of Christ to pray. So they are called upon by the Prophet Esay, Chap. 62. ver. 67. Ye that mak● mention of the Lord keep not silence, and give him no rest, till he establish, and till he make Jerusalem a praise in the Earth.  
And this whilst they do, they may truly be said to make prayers for jesus Christ, whose Body this is, and whose Glory is so much concerned in it. The Church's Exaltation is his Exaltation: Behold my Servant (saith the Lord, speaking of the Messiah, his Son Christ, whom he calleth his Servant 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, in regard of that great Service which he was to do in working of the Redemption and Salvation of his Elect People,) shall deal prudently, he shall be exalted, and extolled, and be very High, Esay 52.13. So he is already in his Person, being set at the right hand of God his Father in the heavenly places, Far abov● all Principality and Power, and Might and Dominion, Eph. 1.20, 21. And so he shall be in his Kingdom, his Church, which he governing with so much prudence and wisdom as he doth, and shall do, it shall be exalted, and He exalted in its Exaltation.  
Thus is God said to be exalted and lifted up, by doing great things for his Church and People against his and their Enemies. So the Prophet Esay hath it, Esay 33. The Lord is exalted, for He dwelleth on High, He hath filled Zion with judgement and Righteousness. And again, ver. 10. Now will I arise (saith the Lord), now will I be exalted, now will I lift up myself. So he is said to be, when he manifesteth his Power and Goodness in showing any special favour to his Church and People, and executing any signal Judgements upon his and their Enemies. Now his Name is exalted, as the same Prophet hath it, Esay 12.4. where exciting the People to bless God for his great mercies to his Church, In that day (saith he) shall ye say, Praise the Lord, ca●● upon his Name, declare his doings among the People, make mention that his Name is exalted. And thus is the Name of Christ exalted in the great things which he doth for his Church; this being a manifestation of his Sovereignty, he is thereby honoured and glorified. And upon this account are his Subjects to pray for him; which we find the Psalmist doing, Psal. 18.46. The Lord liveth, and blessed be my Rock, and let the God of my Salvation be exalted.  
2. And as they are thus to pray for his visible Kingdom, ●o for his Invisible, his Spiritual Kingdom, which is not outwardly visible to the Eye; but is set up in the hearts of men. So our Saviour tells the Pharisees, Luke 17.20. where they demanding of him, When the Kingdom of God should come; He answered them, and said, The Kingdom of God cometh not with Observation. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, with outward pomp and show, It●●ut observari possit, so as the glory of it may be discerned by every vulgar Eye, as it is with secular Kingdoms. But it is inward and spiritual, set up in the hearts of men. So it followeth in the next verse, Neither shall they say, ●oe her●, or ●oe there▪ for behold the Kingdom of God is within you. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, Not only among you, (as it is where the Gospel is preached, which is the Sceptre of Christ's Kingdom), but within you, in the hearts of the Faithful. There doth Christ set up his Sceptre, ●uling and governing by his Word and Spirit. Now upon this account again are all his Subjects to make prayers for him; that his Kingdom may thus come, and that both to themselves and others.  
1. To themselves, that Christ may enter and take a full possession of their hearts. These are the Gates, those everlasting Doors, which the Psalmist calleth upon to lift up their heads, that the King of Glory may enter in, Psal. 24.7, 9 which however it may be understood literally of the Gates of the Temple, and metaphorically of the Gates of Heav●n, which were set open to receive Christ at his Ascension thither; yet may it mystically be applied to the hearts of men, who being the Temple of God, (as Believers are called, 1 Cor. 3.16.) their hearts are as Gates and Doors to let Christ in to their Souls. And these Gates are they to lift up and set open, earnestly desiring that Christ may enter, and take up his dwelling there, ruling and reigning there till ●he hath put all his Enemies under his Feet, that so they may have a more sweet and full Communion with this their Lord and Saviour.  
2. And as they are to do this for themselves, so for others. For this cause Paul tells his Ephes●●ns, that he bowed his knees to the Father of our Lord jesus Christ on their behalf, That he would grant unto you (saith he) according to the riches of his Glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man, That Christ may dwell in your hearts by Faith. And this are Christians to beg for their Brethren as the choosest mercy, that the Kingdom of Christ may thus come unto them, that his Sceptre may be set up in their hearts, that so they may become his true Loyal and Obedient Subjects. The number whereof being increased and multiplied, it will tend much to the honour of this their King. So Solomon tells us it d●th to a Temporal Prince; In the multitude of the People, i● the King's honour, Prov. 14.28. And so it doth to this our Spiritual Sovereign. And upon that account it is to be prayed for on his behalf: Thus are the Subjects of Christ to pray for him, that hi● Kingdom of Grac● may come.  
2. And as his Kingdom of Grace, so of Glory; that he may come in his Glory. Thus he shall come; The Son of man shall come in th● Glory of his Father with his Angels, (so he himself tells his Disciples)▪ Matth. 16.27. Come like a glorious King. So he shall do at the las● and great day, Then shall he come in the Clouds of Heaven with Power and great Glory (as we have it), Matth. 24.30. And this coming of his, as it shall be glorious to himself, the glorious appearing of the gre●t God, and of our Saviour jesus Christ, (as the Apostle calleth it, Tit. 2.13.) a full manifestation of his transcendent Glory, so shall it be joyous to his Subjects, who are bid then to look up, and lift up their heads, (viz▪ those who shall be alive at tha● his coming), Luke 21.28. When these things begin to come to pass, (viz. when they should see the signs of his coming there spoken of) then look up, and lift up your heads, for your Redemption draweth nig●; Your full and perfect Redemption, when you shall be for ever freed and delivered out of the hands of all your Enemies, and have a full enjoyment of all those blessings which I have purchased and prepared for you. Then Christ being glorious in himself, he shall be glorified in his Saints. So the Apostle sets it forth▪ 2 Thess. 1.7, 10. When the Lord jesus shall be revealed from Heaven with his mighty Angels, etc. He shall then come to be glorified in his Sain●s, and to be admired in all them that believe. So he shall be, when manifesting the fullness of his Glory unto them, he shall make them partakers of the same glory with himself. Such shall that his Coming be.  
And for this all his Subjects do, or aught to wait. So Paul saith his believing Corinthians did, 1 Cor. 1.7. Ye come behind in no Gift, waiting for the coming of our Lord jesus Christ 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 (saith th● Original), the Revelation, meaning his second coming, when his Glory should be fully manifested to them, and to the World. And the like he saith of his Thessalonians, 1 Thess. 1.10. Being turned from Idols to serve the true and living God, they waited for his Son from Heaven. Which he prays for them, that they might still do, and that with Patience, 2 Thess. 3.5. And the Lord direct your hearts into the Love of God, and into the patient waiting for Christ.  
And whilst they thus wait for it; they are also to wish it, to pray for it. So the Spirit and the Bride are said to do, Rev. 22.17. The Spirit and the Bride say, Come. The Church, which is Christ's Bride, by the motion of the Spirit working such a desire in the hearts of true Believers, earnestly▪ wisheth and prayeth for the coming of Christ. And this are all that hear of it to do; And let him that heareth say, Come. So did john himself, who having received from Christ an intimation and assurance of his Coming, that he would come, and that quickly, he saith Amen to it, closing up this Book of his with this affectionate Apprecation; He which testifieth these things, saith, Surely I come quickly; Amen, even so come Lord jesus. Thus are the Subjects of Christ's Kingdom to make prayers for him.  
2. And this they are to do Continually. There is the second particular: of which but a word, time not giving way for inlargements, my purpose being to finish the Text at present.  
And great Reason there is why they should do so; why the● should pray for him Continually.  

Reas.  1. This doth He for them, being a continual Intercessor on their behalf, He ever liveth to make Intercession for them, Hebr. 7.25.  
2. They have need thus to pray for him upon their own account, that he who hath begun to take up his lodging in their Souls, may continue to dwell there; That as he hath begun the good work in them, so he may go on to perform and perfect it till his appearing.  
3. Again they have need so to do upon the Church's account, which being beset with so many and great Enemies, who are continually at work, being unwearied in their endeavours for the damage and prejudice of it, and of all the true members thereof, (your Adversary the Devil, as a roaring Lion walketh about, seeking whom he may devour, 1 Pet. 5.8; and so do his Instruments), it hath need of a continual Guard to pro●ect and defend it. But leaving the Doctrinal part, I shall pass to Application: which I shall direct (as before) only two ways, by way of Reprehension, Exhortation: I shall be brief in both.  

Use 1.  Is this a Tribute which is due unto this King, how is it then that it is withheld from him? Which it is not only,  
1. By h●s open and professed Enemies, who will not own and acknowledge his Sovereignty. Such were the jews, We have no King but Caesar (say the chief Priests unto Pilate), joh. 19.15. And the rest of the People, being of the same mind; in stead of praying for him, they pray against him: They cried out, Away with him, away with him, Crucify him, (as the former pa●t of that verse hath it). And as it was with the jews, so was it then, and at this day is with many, the greatest part of the Gentiles, with whom we find the Psalmist contesting about this their Rebellion, Psal. 2.1, 2, 3. Why do the Heathen rage, and the People imagine a vain thing? The Kings of the Earth set themselves, and the Rulers take Counsel together against the Lord, and against his Anointed; saying, Let us break their bonds as●nder, and cast away their Cords from us. Thus was David opposed by his Enemies, both before his coming to the Crown, and after. And thus i● the Lord Jesus (of whom David was a Type,) opposed; the greatest part of the World being Enemies to him, and to his Kingdom, the destruction whereof they desire and endeavour. But leaving them,  
2. Are there not some, and too many, who go for his Subjects, guilty of the like disloyalty? Such as have taken the Name of Christ upon them, professing themselves to be Christians, yet are they far from praying for this their Sovereign, as they ought to do. It may be they say, and that as oft as any other, Thy Kingdom come, but they mean it not, they do not unfeignedly desire it▪ which if they did, they would not oppose his Government as they do. His outward Government in his Church; and his inward Government in themselves. They s●ut the Doors of their Souls, that this King of Glory may not enter in: They will not endure that Christ should set up his Sceptre in their hearts, they will not have him to rule over them, in them: They will not be governed by his Laws. Let not such call themselves his Subjects.  
3. And others there are, who, though they do not utterly refuse to pay this Tribute to this their Sovereign; yet they are remiss, and careless in it, not praying for him Continually, as they ought to do. They are no● so affected with the state and condition of his Kingdom as they ought to be, so as to be earnest in seeking the pe●ce, welfare, and prosperity of the Church. So long as it goeth well with the State wherein they live▪ as for the Church they little ●egard it. So was it not with the People of God in Babylon, whose affection to Hi●rusalem we have se●t forth, Psal. 137. ver. 5, 6. If I forget thee, O Jerusalem, let my right hand forget her cunning. If I do not remember thee, let my tongue ●leav● to the roof of my mouth; If I prefer not Jerusalem above my chief joy. Thus were they affected with the sad sta●e of the Church, and the decay of God's true Religion, more than with all their own private Concernments. This it was that lay nearest their hearts, sat upon their spirits, so as they had it in continual remembrance. How is it then that so many, who profess themselves Christians, should be so little affected as they are with the sad state and condition of the Church at this Day? They do not remember it, and the interest of Christ in it; if at all, yet not so affectionately and constantly as th●y aught to do.  
4. To these I may add, such as do not pray for the second coming of Christ: No, they are far from joining with the Spiri● and the Bride in saying, Come Lord jesus. This is a thing which they do not firmly believe, that he will come. However, they hope that he will not come quickly, saying in their hearts wi●h that evil Servant, Matth. 24.48. My Master ●●layeth his coming. In the mean time giving themselves to sensuality and luxury; Nay, their desire is that he may never come. And so in stead of praying for him, they pray against him: And surely it can be no otherwise with some, with many, even with all obstinate and rebellious Sinners, such as will not have Christ to Reign in them, and over them here. To all such will this se●ond coming of Christ be a dreadful coming; When the Lord I●sus shall be revealed from Heaven with his mighty Angels, in flaming fi●e taking Vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the Gospel of our Lord jesus Christ. Who shall be punished with everlasting Destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the Glory of his Power (as the Apostle sets it forth, 2 Thess. 1.7, 8, 9) Oh! this will be to them a dreadful coming. A● the beholding of which, they shall do what St. john saith of the ●ings of the Earth, and the gre●t men, and the rich men, and the ●hief Captains, etc. viz. all such as have been Enemy's to Ch●●st and to his Kingdom, Rev. 6.15. They shall hide themselves in the the Dens, and in the Rocks of the Mountains, saying to the Mountains and to the Rocks, Fall on us, and hide us from the f●ce of him that lifts upon the Throne, and from the wrath of the La●●▪ And as they shall then deprecate and pray against his coming, so it cannot be that they should now apprecate and pray for it. But turn it into a word of Exhortation.  
Which let it be directed to all and every of us, 
Use 2.  who profess ourselves to be Subjects unto this Sovereign; let not us be wanting in this our Duty, in paying this Tribute unto him, in praying for him, and that continually, that his Kingdom may come▪ and that power, that he may reign and prosper. So it is foretell that he shall do, Jer. 23.5. Behold the Days come (saith the Lord), that I will raise unto David a righteous Branch, and a King shall reign and pro●●er, and shall execute judgement and justice i● the Earth. In his Days Judah shall be saved, and Israel shall dwell safely▪ And this is his Name whereby he shall be called, The Lord ou● Righteousness. Which that it is meant of Jesus Christ, i● not to be questioned, that being ●oo high ● Title to be given to any but him, to be called, jehovah T●idkenu, The Lord our Righteousness. He is this King, the King of his Church, under whose Government (it being a righteous Government,) this his Kingdom shall pro●per. And for him for us pray, as David doth for his Son Solomon, in that T●●● forecited, 1 Chron. ●2. ●●▪ that he may pro●●●●, and build the House of the Lord▪ that the work of the Lord may prospe● in hi● hand; that his Church, through his powerful and gracious Government of it, may not only be continued, but enlarged; that it may be established and made a praise in the Earth. That what is here in this Psalm said of Solomon, and his Government in a literal sens●, may be made good in a mystical ●nd spiritual sense in the Government of Christ▪ That he judging the People with Righteousness, and th● Poor with Iudgmen●; The Mountains may bring Peace, and the li●tl● Hills by righteousness, ver. 2, 3. That in his Days the Righteous may flourish, and that there may b● abundance of P●ace so long 〈◊〉 the Moon endureth, ver. 7. That he may have Dominion f●o● S●a to Sea, and from the Rivers to the ends of the Earth, ver. 8. That they which dwell in the Wilderness may bow before him, and that his Enemies may lick the Dust, ver. 9 Thus was it don● to King Solomon, and so shall it be done to King jesus: for which let us daily pray.  
2. And whilst we pray, that he may thus come to his Church in general, beg we the like for ourselves in particular▪ that he may come unto us, come into our hearts, taking a full possession of them, dwelling and ruling there, that so we may be happy and blessed under his Government, being blessed with all spiritual Blessings in heavenly places (or things) in him, and have a more sweet and full Communion with him in his Kingdom of Grace here, and in his Kingdom of Glory hereafter.  
3. For which also let us pray, that that may come, that our eyes may see this our King coming in his Glory. Which whilst we continually wait for (as we ought to do), let us in like manner pray for it, that he may hasten his coming, come quickly. Surely I come quickly; Amen, even so come Lord jesus. Thus pray we for ●im.  
2. And whilst we pray for him, let us also praise him, (of which but a word): This is the other Tribute which is due unto this our Sovereign; and let it be given to him. So it was in his state of Humiliation here upon Earth; when he went, in that mean Garb, riding into jerusalem upon an Ass, (as we have the story, Matth. 21.) the People, many of them, received and entertained him with the like solemnity as Princes in their Coronations usually are (and as our dread Sovereign lately was in passing thorough his Royal City); some spreading their Garments in the way, other's cutting down Branches from the Trees, and strowing them in the way ● And the multitude that went before, and tha● followed, cried, saying, Hosannah to the Son of David, Blessed is he that cometh in the Name ●f the Lord, Hosannah in the highest. And so it is, and ever shall be, in his state of Exaltation: where Angels and Saints beholding him sitting upon his Throne are said to fall down before him, worshipping and praising of him. So St. john saith he saw it, and heard it, Revel▪ 5.11, 12, 13. And I beheld and heard the voice of many Angels round about the Throne, and the Beasts and Elders, etc. saying with a loud Voice, Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive Power, and Riches, and Wisdom, and Strength, and Honour, and Glory, and Blessing. And ev●ry Creature which is in Heaven, and on the Earth, etc. heard I saying, Blessing, Honour, Glory, and Power be unto him that sitteth upon the Throne, and unto the Lamb for ever and ever. Here is the Church's Acclamation, wherein the rest of the Creatures join with them, and to which the four Beasts (or living Wights, 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉) say, Amen, ver. 14. And herein let us join in consort with them▪ thus blessing and praising this our Sovereign, giving unto him all possible Honour and Glory.  
This is he worthy to receive: So it is there by that Choir declared, Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive Honour, and Glory, and Blessing, ver. 12. And so he must be acknowledged to be by us, both in respect of what he is in himself, and what he is to us. In himself he is a King, a great King, King of Kings, and Lord of Lords, (that is the Name which is said to be written on his Vesture, and on his Thigh, Revel. 19.16.) The blessed and only Potentate, King of Kings, and Lord of Lords; who only hath immortality, dwelling in the Light which no man can approach unto (so the Apostle describeth him), 1 Tim. 6.15, 16. Such is his Greatness. And such is his Goodness, his goodness to us, which he hath already many ways expressed; as in leaving the bosom of his Father, coming down from Heaven, abasing himself to take our Náture upon him, in that Nature doing and suffering what Justice required at our hands, Redeeming us to God by his Blood, Revel. 5.9. All which call for this Tribute to be paid unto him by all those who have an interest in him. As also doth his Continual Intercession, which he maketh for us, sitting at the right hand of his Father: And the preparations which he hath made for us, being gone before to prepare a place for us, that we may not only be with him, beholding his Glory, but also be made partakers of it▪ To which I might add, The righteousness and graciousness of his Government; The Righteousness of it, The S●epter of thy Kingdom is a Sceptre of Righteousness, Hebr. 1.8. The graciousness of it, in admitting all that will to come unto him, Him that cometh 〈…〉, I will in no wise cast out, Joh. 6.37. And inviting all that feel the need they have of him to come unto him, promising them what they can desire. Come unto me ye that are weary and he●vy laden, and I will give you rest, Matth. 11.28. Upon these and many other accounts is this our King to be blessed and praised.  
And, that Daily, [And daily shall he be praised]▪ Inasmuch as he daily loadeth us with his Benefits, giving us every day new experiences of his goodness, in bestowing upon us so many Blessings both Temporal and Spiritual▪ all which call for a grateful acknowledgement. But here I am fallen into a large Field, wherein I have no time to expatiate: And therefore shall commend what hath bee● spoken to the blessing of God.  
FINIS.