Christ, the Way, and the Truth, and the Life. OR, A Short Discourse.  
Pointing forth the way of making use of Christ for justification, and especially and more particularly, for Sanctification in all its parts, from JOHAN. XIV: Vers. VI Wherein several cases of conscience are briefly answered, chiefly touching Sanctification.  
By JOHN BROWN. Preacher of the Gospel.  
ROTTERDAM.  
Printed by H. G. for john cairn's, book seller in Edinburgh, and are to be sold there 1677.   

THE EPISTLE DEDICATORY TO The Right Honourable and Religious Lady, The Lady STRATHNAVER  
MADAM.  
IEsus Christ himself being the chief corner stone, in whom all the building fitly framed together, groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord; as it ought to be the principal concearne of all, who have not sitten down on this side of jordan, to satisfy their souls, (once created for, and in their own nature requireing▪ in order to satisfaction, Spiritual, immortal and incorruptible substance), with husks prepared for beasts, to be built in and upon this corner stone, for an habitation of God, through the Spirit: So it ought to be the main design and work of such, as would be approven of God, as faithful labourers and co-workers with God, to be following the example of him, who determined not to know any thing, among those he wrote unto, save jesus Christ and him crucified. O! this noble, heart-ravishing, soul-satisfying mysterious theme, jesus Christ crucified, the short compend of that uncontrovertibly great mystery of godliness, God manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of Angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory: wherein are things the Angels desire to look into, or with vehement desire bend (as it were) their necks, and bow down their heads to look and peep into (as the word used, 1 Pet. 1: 12. importeth) is a Subject for angelical heads to pry into; for the most indefatigable, & industrious Spirits, to be occupied about. The searching into and studying of this one Truth, in reference to a closeing with it, as our life, is an infallible mark of a soul divinely enlightened, and endued with spiritual and heavenly wisdom; for though it be unto the jews a stumbling block, & unto the Greeks foolishness; yet unto them, who are called, it is Christ the power of God, & the wisdom of God, because the foolishness of God is wiser than men, & the weakness of God is stronger than men. O! what depths of the manifold wisdom of God are there in this mystery? The more it is preached, known & believed aright, the more is it understood, to be beyond understanding, & to be what it is, a mystery. Did ever any Preacher or believer, get a broad look of this boundless ocean, wherein infinite Wisdom, Love that passeth all understanding, Grace without all dimensions, justice that is admirable and tremenduous, and God in his glorious Properties, Condescensions, high and noble Designs, and in all his Perfections and Virtues, flow over all banks; or were they ever admitted to a prospect hereof in the face of jesus Christ; & were not made to cry out, O the depth and height, the breadth and length! O the inconceivable, and incomprehensible, boundlesness of all infinitely transcendent perfections? Did ever any with serious diligence, as knowing their life lay in it, study this mysterious Theme, and were not, in full conviction of soul, made to say, the more they promoved in this study, and the more they descended in their diveings into this depth, or soared upward in their mounting speculations in this height, they found it the more an unsearchable mystery? The study of other Themes (which Alas! many, who think it below them to be happy, are too much occupied in) when it hath wasted the spirits, wearied the mind, worn the body, and rarified the brain to the next degree unto a distraction, what satisfaction can it give, as to what is attained, or encouragement as to future attainments? And when, as to both these, something is had, and the poor soul puffed up with an airy and fanciful apprehension of having obtained▪ some great thing, but in truth a great Nothing, or a Nothing pregnant with Vanity, and vexation of Spirit, foolish twines causing no gladness to the Father, for he that increaseth knowledge, increaseth sorrow, Eccles. 1: 18. what peace can all yield to a soul reflecting on posting-away time, now near the last point, and looking forward to endless Eternity? Oh! the thoughts of time wasted with, and fair opportunities of good lost by, the vehement pursueings and hunt after shadows and vanities, will torment the soul, by assaulting it with piercing convictions of madness and folly, in forsaking All, to overtake Nothing; with dreadful and soul-terrifying discoveries of the saddest of disappointments: and with the horror of an everlastingly irrecoverable loss; And what hath the laborious Spirit than reaped of all the travail of his soul, when he hath lost it? But, on the other hand, O with what calmness of mind, serenity of soul and peace of conscience, because of the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, will that poor soul look back, when standing on the border of Eternity, on the bygone day's o●… hours it spent, in s●…eking after, praying & ●…seing all appointed means for, some saying acquaintance with, and interest in this only soul up making, and soul satisfying Mystery; and upon its yielding up itself, through the effica●…ious operations of the Spirit of grace, wholly, without disputing unto the powerful workings of this mystery within; and in becoming crucified with Christ▪ and living through●… crucified Christ's living in it, by his Spirit and power: and with what rejoicing of heart and gloriou singing of soul, will it look forward to Eternity▪ and its everlasting abode in the prepared mansions, remembering that there, it's begun study will be everlastingly continued, its capacity to understand that unsearchable mystery will be inconceivably greater; and the spiritual, heavenly and glorious joy, which it will have, in that practical reading its divinity without book of ordinances, will be its life and felicity for ever? And what peace & joy in the holy Ghost, what inward and inexpressible quiet and contentment of mind, will the soul enjoy, in dwelling on these thoughts, when it shall have withal the inward and well grounded persuasion of its right, through Jesus Christ, to the full possession of that All, which now it cannot conceive, let be comprehend; the foretastes whereof filleth it with joy unspeakable and full of glory; and the hope of shortly landing there, where it shall see and enjoy & wonder & praise, and rest in this endless and restless felicitating work, making it to sing, while passing thorough the valley of the shadow of death? O if this were believed! O that we were not drunk, to a distraction and madness, with the adulterous love of vain and airy speculations, to the postponing, if not utter neglecting, of this main and only upmaking work, of getting real acquaintance with and a begun possession of this mystery in our souls, Christ, the grand mystery▪ form within us, living, and working within us by his Spirit, and working us up unto a conformity unto, and an heart-closeing with God manifested in the flesh, that we may find in experience, or at least, in truth and reality, have a true transumpte of that Gospel mystery, in our souls! Oh when shall we take pleasure in pursueing after this happiness, that will not flee from us, but is rather pursueing us; when shall we receive with joy and triumph this King of glory, that is courting us daily, and is seeking access and entry into our souls? Oh why cry we not out, in the hieght of the passion of spiritual longing & desire. O come Lord jesus, King of glory, with thine own key, and open the door and enlarge & dilate the chambers of the soul, that thou may enter, and be entertained as the King of glory▪ with all thy glorious retinue, to the ennobling of my soul, & satisfying of all the desires of that immortal spark? Why do we not covet after this knowledge, which hath a true and firm connexion with all the best and truly divine gifts? O happy soul, that is wasted and worn to a shadow (if that could be) in this study and exercise, which at length will enliven and (as it were) bring in a new heavenly & spiritual soul into the soul, so that it shall look no more like a dead, disspirited thing, out of its native soil and element; but as a free, elevated and spiritualised Spirit, expatiating itself, & fleeing abroad in the open air of its own element and country. O happy day, O happy hour, that is really and effectually spent in this employment! what would souls, sweeming in this ocean of all pleasures and delights, care for, yea, with what abhorrency would they look upon the bewitehing allurements of the purest kind of carnal delights, which flow from the mind's satisfaction in feeding on the poor apprehensions, & groundlessly expected comprehensions of objects, suited to its natural genius and capacity? O! what a more hyperbolically exceeding and glorious satisfaction hath a soul, in its very pursueings after (when it misseth & cannot reach) that which is truly desireab●…e! How doth the least glimpse, through the smallest cranny, of this glorious and glorifying knowledge of God in Christ, apprehended by faith, raise up the soul to that pitch of joy and satisfaction, which the knowledge of natural things, in its purest perfection, shall never be able to cause; and to what a surmounting measure of this joy and contentation, will the experienceing & feeling by spiritual sense the sweet and spiritual relish of this capivating, and transcendently excellent knowledge, raise the soul unto? O! must not this be the very suburbs of heaven to the soul? When the soul thus seeth & apprehendeth God in Christ, and that as its own God, through Christ (for as all saving knowledge, draweth out the soul unto an imbraceing & closeing with the object, so it bringeth in the object to the making up of the rec●…procal union and in-being) it cannot but admire with exultation, and exult with admiration, at that condescendence of free grace, that hath made it in any measure capable of this begun glory, and will fur●…her make it meet, by this begun glory, to be a 〈◊〉 of the inheritance of the Saints in light: and what will a soul, that hath tasted of the pure delights of this river of gospel manifestations, & hath seen with soul-rav●…shing delight, in some measure, the manifold wisdom of God wrapped up therein; and the comple●…t and perfect ●…ymmetrie of all the parts of that noble contexture, and also the pure design of that contr●…vance to abase Man, and to extol the riches of the free grace of God, that the sinner, when possessed of all, designed for him and effectuated in him thereby, may know who alone should wear the crown and have all the glory; what, I say, will such a soul see in another gospel●… calculated to the meridian of the natural, crooked and corrupted temper of proud man, who is soon made va●…ne of nothing, which in stead of bringing a sinner, fall●…n from God through pride, back again to the enjoyment of Him, through a Mediator, doth but foster that innate plague, and rebellion, which caused and procured his first excommunication from the favour, and banishment out of the paradise of God) that shall attract its heart to it, and move it to ●… compliance with it? When the poor sinner, that hath been made to pant after a Saviour, and hath been pursued to the very ports of the city of refuge by the ave●…ger of blood, the justice of God, hath tasted and seen, how good God is, and felt the sweetness of free love in a crucified Christ, and seen the beauty and glory of the mystery of free grace, suitably answering●… and overcoming the mystery of its sin and misery; O what a complacency hath he therein, and in the way of gospel salvation, wherein free grace is seen to overflow all banks, to the eternal praise of the God of all grace. How saltless and unsavoury will the most cunningly devised and patch together mode of salvation be, that men, studying the perversion of the gospel▪ and seeking the ruin of souls, with all their skill, indusery and learning, are setting off with forced rhetoric, and the artifice of words of man's wisdom, and with the plausible advantages of a pretended sanctity, and of strong grounds and motives unto diligence and painfulness, to a very denying and renunceing of Christian liberty, when once itis observed, how it entrencheth upon, and darkneth the lustre, or diminisheth the glory of free grace, and hath the least tendency to the setting of the crown on the creatures head, in whole or in part? The least perception that hereby the sinner's song, ascribeing blessing, honour, glory and power, unto him, that was s●…ain, & hath redeemed them to God by his blood, out of every kin●…ed and tongue and people and nation, and hath made them unto their God kings and prie●…ts, shall be marred, will be enough to render that device detestable, and convince the soul, that itis not the gospel of the grace of God, nor that mystery of God and of Christ, but rather the mystery of ●…niquity. What a peculiar savouriness doth the humbled believer find, in the doctrine of the true gospel grace; and the more, that he be thereby made Nothing, and Christ made All; that he, in his highest atainments, be debaised, and Christ exalted; that his most lovely peacoke feathers be laid, & the crown flourish on Christ's head; that he be laid flat, without one foot to stand upon, and Christ the only supporter, and carrier of him to glory; that he be as dead without life, and Christ live in him, the more lovely, the more beautiful, the more desirable, and acceptable is it unto him. O what a complacency hath the graced soul, in that contrivance of infinite wisdom, wherein the mystery of the grace of God is so displayed, that nothing appeareth, from the lowest foundation stone to the upper, most cope-stone but grace, grace, free grace making up all the materials, and free grace with infinite wisdom cementing all? The gracious soul can be warm under no other covering, but what is made of that web, wherein grace and only grace is both wooft and werpe; and the reason is manifest, for such an one hath the clearest sight and discovery of his own condition, and seeth that nothing suiteth him, and his case, but free grace: nothing can make up his wants, but free grace: nothing can cover his deformities, but free grace; nothing can help his weaknesses, shortcoming, faintings, sins and miscarriages, but free grace: therefore is free grace all his Salvation, and all his Desire: itis his glory to be free grace's debtor, for evermore; the crown of glory will have a far more exceeding and eternal weight, and be of an hyperbolically hyperbolic and eternal weight▪ and yet easily carried and worn, when he seeth how free grace and free love hath lined it▪ and free grace and free love sets it on, and keeps it on for ever: this maketh the glorified Saint, wear it with ease, by casting it down at the feet of the gracious and loving purchaser, and bestower. His exaltation is the Saints glory; and by free grace, the Saints receiving and holding all of free grace, is He exalted. O what a glory is it to the Saint, to set the crown of glorious free grace, with his own hands, on the head of such a Saviour, and to say, not unto me, not unto me, but unto thee, even unto thee alone, be the glory for ever and ever! With what delight, satisfaction, and complacency, will the glorified Saint, upon this account, sing the Redeemed and Ransomed their song? And if the result and effect of free grace will give such a sweet sound there, and make the glorified's heaven, in some respects, another thing, or at least, in some respect, a more excellent heaven, than Adam's heaven would have been; for Adam could not have sung the song of the Redeemed; Adam's heaven would not have been the purchase of the blood of God; nor would Adam have sitten with Christ Redeemer on his throne; nor would there have been in his heaven such ●…ich hangings of free grace, nor such mansions prepared by that gracious and loving husband, Christ, who will come and bring his bough●…-bride home with Him. Seing, I say, heaven, even upon the account of free grace, will have such a special, lovely, desirable, and glorious lustre, O how should Grace be prized by us now? How should the Gospel of the Grace of God be esteemed by us? What an antipa●…hy to Glory, as now prepared and dressed up for sinful man, must they show, whose whole wit and parts are busied to da●…ken the glory of th●… Grace, which God would have shineing in the Gospel; and who are a●… so much pains and labour, to dress up another gospel (though the Apostle hath told us, Gal. 1: 7. that there is not another) wherein Gospel-grace must stand by, and law grace take the throne, that so man may sacrifice to his own net, and burn incense to his own drag, and may at most be grace's debtor, in part; and yet no way may the saved man account himself more grace's debtor, than the man was, who wilfully destroyed himself, in not performing of the conditions; for Grace (as the new Gospelers, or rather Gospel- spillers mean, and say▪) did equally to both frame the conditions, make known th●… contrivance, and tender the conditional peace and salvation. But as to the difference betwixt Paul and judas, it was Paul that made himself to differ, and not the free grace of God▪ determineing the heart of Paul by grace to a closeing with and accepting of the b●…rgan. It was not grace that wrought in him both to will & to do▪ It wa●… he & not the grace of God in him. What more contradictory to the gospel of the grace of God? And yet vain Man will not condescend to the free grace of God. Pelagianisme & Arminianism, needeth not put a man to much study, and to the reading of many books, to the end, it may be practically learned (though the patrons hereof labour hot in the very fires, to make their notions hang together, and to give them such a lustre of unsanctified and corrupt reason, as may be taking with such as know no other conduct in the matters of God) for n●…turally we are all born Pelagians and Arminians: these Tenets are deeply engraven in the heart of every Son of fallen Adam: what serious servant of God findeth not this, in his dealing with souls, whom he is labouring to bri●…g into the way of the Gospel? Yea what Christian is there, who hath acquaintance with his own heart, and is observing its byasses and corrupt inclinations, that is not made to cry out, O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from these dregs of Pelagianism, Arminianism and jesuitism, which I find yet within my soul? Hence it may seem no wonderful, or strange thing (though after so much clear light, it may be astonishing to think, that now, in this age, so many are so openly, and a●…wedly, appearing for this dangerous and deadly errou●…) to us, to hear and see this infection spread●…ng and gaining ground so fast, there needeth few arguments or motives, to work up carnal hearts to an imbraceing thereof, and to a cheerful acquiesceing therein; little labour will make a spark of fire work upon gunpowder. And, me thinks, if nothing else will, this one thing should convince us all of the error of this way; that nature so q●…imely and readily complyeth therewith; for who, that hath any eye upon, or regaird of such things, seeth not, what a world of carnal reasonings, objections, prejudices, and scruples, natural men have in readiness against the Gospel of Christ; and with what satisfaction, peace and delight, they reason and plead themselves out of the very reach of free grace; and what work there is to get a poor sole, in any measure wakened and convinced of its lost condition, wrought up to a compliance with the gospel way of Salvation? How many other designs, projects and essays doth it follow; with a piece of natural vehemency and seriousness, without wearying, were it even to the wasteing of its body and spirits, let be, its substance & riches, before it be brought to a closeing with a crucified Mediator, and to an accounting of all its former workings, attainments, and painful labourings, and gain, as loss for Christ, and for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ, and as dung that it may win Christ, and be found in Him, not having its own righteousness, which is of the la●…, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness, which is of God by fai●…h, Phil. 3: 7, 8▪ 9 A●…d m●…y it not seem strange, that now, after so many have found, through the grace of God, the sweet experience of the gracious workings of the gospel grace of God upon their hearts, and so are in case, as having this witness within them, to give verdict against those assertions; yea moe and many more, than were in several ages before; yet Satan should become so bold, as to vent these desperate opinions, so diametrically opposite to the Grace of God, declared in the Gospel, and engraven in the Hearts of many hundereds, by the finger of God, confirming▪ in the most undoubted manner, the truth of the gospel doctrines. This would seem to say, that there are such clear sun shine days of the Gospel, and of the Son of man, a coming (and who can tell how soon this night shall be at an end?) that all these doctrines of nature shall receive a more conspicuous and shameful dash, than they have received for these many ages: Hithertil when Satan raised up, and sent forth his qualified instruments, for this desperate work, God always prepared carpenters to fright these horns and thus Gospel▪ truth came forth, as gold out of a furnace, more clear and shineing: And who can tell but there may be a dispensation of the pure grace of God, in opposition to these perverting ways of Satan, yet to come, that, as to the measure of light and power, shall excel whatever hath been, siace the Apostles days? Even so come Lord jesus!  
However, Madam, the Grace of God will be, what it is, to all the chosen and ransomed ones. They will find that in it, which will make whatever cometh in competition therewith or would darken it, contemptible in their eyes: And happy they, of whom, in this day wherein darkness covereth the earth, and gross darkness the people, it may be said, the Lord hath arisen upon them, and his glory, hath been seen upon them: for whatever others, whose understanding is yet darkened, and they alienated from the life of God, through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their hearts, imagine of the Gospel Grace; and however they discern nothing of the heavenly and spiritual glory of the Grace of God: yet they being delivered or cast into the form and mould of the doctrine of the Gospel, which they have obeyed from the heart, through the powerful and irresistible efficacy of the mighty grace of God, have seen such an allureing excellency, in 〈◊〉 gracious contrivance of infinite wisdom, to set forth the unparallelableness of the pure grace of God, and are daily seeing more and more of the graciousness & wisdom of that heavenly invention, in its adeq●…at s●…teablness to all their necessities, that as they cannot but admire and commend the riches of that grace that interlineth every sentence of the gospel, and the greatness of that love, that hath made such a completely broad plaster, to cover all their sores and wounds; so the longer they live, and the more they drink of this pure fountain of heavenly nectar; and the more their necessities press them, to a taking▪ on of new obligations, because of new supplies from this ocean of grace, the more they are made to admire the Wisdom & Goodness of the Author▪ and the more they are made to fall in love with, to delight●…, and lose themselves in the thoughts of this incomprehensible grace of God; yea and to long to be there, where they shall be in better case to contemplate, and have more wit to wonder at, and better dexterity to prize, & a stronger head to muse upon, and a more enlarged heart to praise for this boundless and endless treasure of the Grace of God, with which they are enriched, through Jesus Christ. Sure, if we be not thus enamoured & ravished with it, it is because we are yet standing without, or, at most, upon the threshold & border of this Grace; were we once goto within the jurisdiction of grace, and had yielded up ourselves unto the power thereof, and were living and breathing in this air, O! how sweet a life might we have? What a kindly ●…lement would Grace be to us? As sin had reigned unto death, even so grace should reign, through righteousness, unto eternal life, by jesus Christ, our Lord Rom. 5: 21. Grace reigning within us th●…ough righteousness, would frame & fit our souls for that eternal life, that is insured to all, who come once under the commanding, enlivening, strengthening, confirming, corroborating, and perfecting power of Grace: and seeking grace for grace, and so living and walking and spending upon Grace's cost and charges, O how lively, and thriveing proficients might we be? The more we spent of grace (if it could be spent) the richer should we be in grace: O what an enriching trade must it be to trade with free Grace, where there is no loss, and all is gain, the stock and gain and all is insured; yea more, labouring in Grace's field would bring us in Isaack's blessing, an hundred fold: But Alas! it is one thing to talk of Grace, but a far other thing to trade with Grace. When we are so great strangers unto the life of grace, through not breathing in the air of grace; how can the name of the Lord jesus Christ be glorified in us, and we in Him, according to the grace of our God, and the Lord jesus Christ, 2 Thes. 1: 12? Consider we, what an affront and indignity it is unto the Lord dispenfator of Grace, that we look so lean, and ill favoured, as if there were not enough of the fattening bread of the grace of God, in our Father's house, or as if the great Steward, who is full of grace and truth, were unwilling to bestow it upon us, or grudged us of our allowance, when the fault is in ourselves, we will not follow the course, that Wise Grace, and Gracious Wisdom hath prescribed; we will not open our mouth wide, that He might fill us; nor go to Him, with our narrowed or closed mouths, that Grace might make way for grace, and widen the mouth for receiving of more grace; but lie by in our leanness and weakness: and alas we love too will to be so. O but grace be ill warred on us, who carry so unworthily with it, as we do: yet it is well with the gracious soul, that he is under grace's Tutory and care; for Grace will care for him, when he careth not much for it, nor yet seeth well to his own welfare; Grace can & will prevent, yea must prevent, afterward, as well as at the first; that Grace may be Grace, and appear to be Grace, and continue unchangeably to be Grace, and so free Grace. Well is it with the Believer, whom grace hath once taken by the heart, and brought within the bond of the Covenant of Grace, its deadest condition is not desperate: when corruption prevaileth to such an height, that the man is given over for dead, there being no sense, no motion no warmth, no breath almost to be observed; yet Grace, when violently constrained by that strong distemper, to retire to a secret corner of the soul, & there to lurk and lie quiet, will yet at length, through the quickening, & reviv●…ing inf●…uences of Grace▪ promised in the Covenant, & granted in the Lords good time, come out of its prison, take the fields, & recover the empire of the soul; and then the dry & withered stocks, when the God of all grace will be as the dew unto Israel, shall blossom and grow as the lily, and cast forth his roots as lebanon: his branches shall spread, and his beauty shall be as the olive tree, and his smell as lebanon. It is a happy thing, either for Church or particular soul to be planted in G●…ace's 〈◊〉 soil, they lie open to the warm beams of the sun of righteousness; and though winter blasts may be sharp and long; clouds may intercept the heat, and nipping frosts may cause a sad decay▪ and all the sap may return and lie, as it were dormant, in the root; yet the winter will pass: the rain will be over and gone, and the flowers will appear on the earth: the time of the singing of birds will come and the voice of the turtle will be heard in the land: then shall even the wilderness and solitary place be glade, and the desert shall rejoice and blossom as the rose, it shall blossom abundantly, and rejoice even with joy and singing: the glory of Lebanon shall be given unto it, the excellency of Carmel and Sharon, they shall see the glory of the Lord, and the excellency of our God We wonder that it is not always hot summer days, a flourishing and fruitful season, with Souls and with Churches; But know we the thoughts of the Lord? See we to the bottom of the deep contrivances of infinite wisdom? Know we the usefulness, yea necessity, of long winter nights, stormy blasts, hail, rain, snow and frost? Consider we, that our state, and condition, while here, calleth for those vicissitudes, and requireth the blowing of the north, as well as of the south winds? If we considered, how Grace had ordered all things for our best▪ and most for the glory and exaltation of Grace; we would sit down and sing, under the saddest of dispensations, and living by faith and hope, we would rejoice in the confident expectation of a gracious outgate, for as long as Grace predomineth (and that will be until Glory take the Empire) all will run in the channel of grace: and though now, sense (which is oft faiths unfaithful friend) will be always suggesting false tales of God, and of His Grace unto unbelief, and raising thereby discontents, doubts, fears, jealousies, and many distempers in the soul, to its prejudice and h●…rt; yet in end, Grace shall be seen to be Grace; and the faithful shall get such a full sight of this manifold Grace, as ordering, tempering, timeing, shortening or continueing of all the sad and dismal days and seasons, that have passed over their own, or their Mother's head, that they shall see, that Grace did order all, yea every circumstance of all the various toss, changes, ups & downs, that they did meet with. And O what a satisfying sight will that be, when the general▪ assembly, and Church of the first borne, which are enroled in heaven, and every individual saint shall come together, and take a view of all their experiences, the result of which shall be, Grace began, Grace carried on, and Grace hath perfected all, Grace was at the bottom of all, and Grace crowned all? What shoutings Grace, Grace unto it, will be there; when the head stone shall be brought forth? What soul satisfying complacency in, & admiration at all, that is past, will a back look ●…hereat yield, when every one shall be made to say, Grace hath done all well, not a pin of all the work of Grace in and about me might have been wanted; now I see, that the work of God is perfect, Grace was glorious Grace, and wise Grace, whatever I thought of it then: O what a fool have I been, in quarrelling at, and in not being fully satisfied with, all that Grace was doing with me? O how little is this believed now?  
In confidence, Madam, that your La: (to me no ways known, but by a savoury report) shall accept of this bold address, I recommend your La: my very noble Lord your Husband, and off spring, to the word of His grace, and subscribe myself Your and Their  
Servant in the Gospel of the Grace of God. JOHN BROWN.   

Christian Reader,  
IF thou answer this designation, and art really a partaker of the Unction, which is the high import of that blessed and glorious name called upon thee, thine eye must affect thy heart, and ●… soul swelled with Godly sorrow must at last burst and bleed forth at a weeping eye, while thou looks upon most of this licentious and loathsome generation, arrived at that h●…ight of prodigious profanity, as to glory in their shame, and boast of bearing the very badge and black mark of damnation. but, besides this swarm, who savage it to h●…ll, and make such hast thi●…her, as they foam themselves into everlasting flames, carrying, under the shape and visage of men, as Devils in disguise. The face of the Church is covered with a sc●…me of such, who are so immersed in the concerns of▪ this life, and are so intense in the pursuit of the pleasures, gain and honours thereof, as their way doth manifestly witness them to be sunk into the deep oblivion of God, and desperate inconsideration of their precious and immortal souls: But in the 3. place besides these, who are hurried into such a distraction with the cares of this life, that they as natural brute beasts, made to be taken and d●…stroyed, are never at leisure to consider either the nature and necessity of their noble souls, or to converse with the notion of a Deity. Thou may perceive a company of self deceiving speculatists, who make broad the phylacteries of their garments, and boast of some high attainements, in religion; yea, would have others look upon them as arrived at the very porch of heaven, and advanced to a high pitch of proficiency in the ways of God, because they can discourse a little of the mysteries of salvation, and without ever diveing further into the depth and true nature of Religion, dream themselves into a confidence of being saints, and conclude themselves Candidats for glory.  
This is that heart-moveing object, which presents itself to thy eye & observation this day: this is that deplorable posture, wherein thou mayst perceive most men at the very point of perishing eternally, who are within the pale of the visible Church; some danceing themselves headlong in all haste into the lake of fire and brimstone; some so much concerned in things, which have no connexion with their happiness, as to drop inconcernedly into the pit, out of which there is no redemption; and others dreaming themselves into endless perdition; & all of them unite in a deriding at or despiseing the means used, & essays made, in order to their recovery.  
Now while Religion (which is the beauty of the soul, and the basis of man's blessedness, advancing him both to a conformity to God, and qualifying him for the fruition of Him) by the generality of those, called to be saints, (that they may be haved) is not only upon deliberation and choice laid aside, as having nothing in it to recommend and endear it to the souls of men, but hated, flowered, fled from and forsaken, as if it came on purpose to mar men's tranquillity, and torment them before the time. While I say it is thus some faithful Servants, who make conscience to carry on His work, who came to destroy the works of the Devil, and went about, while in the world, healing all that were oppressed of him, set themselves to pray, preach and persuade the things concerning the Kingdom of God, yea to write and warn and weep men into a compliance with their own happipinesse; they endeavour solicitously to inform men's minds, that they may reform their manners, and rescue them with fear, who are running upon their own ruin, but alas with so little success, that they do the work of the Lord with grief, and have much sorrow of those, of whom they ought to have joy; and after all their beseechings, obtesting, requesting and cry, this is the way, walk ye in it, turn you, turn, oh! why will you die; have this as the last return to all their importunities, Nay, there is no hope; speak no more to us of that matter; do not offer to persuade us to relinquish the old road, or dissuade us from following our lovers; for when ye have done all, after these we will go; we resolve to abide, what we have been, children of imperswasion.  
But if his Servants, in following their work closely, seem to have gained a little ground upon men, and almost persuaded them to be Christians, Satan, to the end he may make all miscarry, and counter work these workers together with God, and poison poor souls by a perversion of the Gospel, beyond the power of an antidote, hath raised up, instigat, and set on work a race of proud Rationalists (for they are wiser than to class themselves amongst those poor fools, those base things, those nothings, to whom Christ is made all things, to whom Christ is made wisdom that he may be righteousness, sanctification and redemption to them; nay, they must be wise men after the flesh, wise above what is written: a crucified Christ is really unto them foolishness and weakness, though the power of God and the wisdom of God; they will needs go to work another way; they will needs glory in his presence, and have a heaven of their own hand-wind. (O my soul enter not into their secrets! and, O sweet Jesus, let thy name be to me, the Lord my righteousness, thou hast won it, wear it; and gather not my soul with such, who make mention of any other righteousness, but of thine only!) to bring-in another Gospel amongst men, than the Gospel of the grace of God; as they determine to know some other thing than Christ and him crucified; so with the inticeing words of man's wisdom, they bewitch men into a disobedience to the truth, setting somewhat else before them then a crucified Christ: And this they do, that they may remove men from those, who call them into the grace of Christ, unto another Gospel: A Christ, it is true, they speak of; but it is not the Christ of God; for all they drive at (O cursed and truly Antichristian design!) is, that he may profit them nothing, while they model all Religion according to this novel project of their magnified morality? This is that which gives both life and lustre to that image they adore, to the Dagon, after whom they would have the world▪ wonder and Worship.  
That there is such a moralizeing or muddizeing (if I may be for once admitted to coin a new word to give these men their due) of Christianity now introduced and coming in fashion, many of the late pieces in request do evince? Now, that Christianity should moralise men above all things, I both give and grante; for he who is partaker of the divine nature, and hath obtained precious faith, must add virtue to his faith; But that it should be only conceived and conceited as an elevation of nature to a more clear light, in the matter of morality, wherein our Lord is only respected, as an heavenly teacher, and perfect pattern proposed for imitation, is but a proud pleasing fancy of self conceited, darkened and deluded dreamers, robing God of the glory of his mercy and goodness; our Lord Jesus Christ of the glory of his grace and merit; The Spirit of the efficacy of his glorious and mighty operations; and themselves and their pilgrims, who give them the hand as guides, of the comfort and fruit of all.  
This is the pilgrimage, we are persuaded to undertake to the holy Land; this is that reasonableness of Christianity, which with great swelling words of vanity is ventilat, to the allureing and ensnareing of such, who had almost escaped the corruption, which is in the world through lust, and the pollutions of the flesh through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ; This is the way which they, who undertake to publish to the world the true causes of the decay of piety, take to revive and introduce that piety, which they complain is wanting: O impious invention, not only encroaching upon the unsearchable mystery of the Gospel; but subversive of the whole method, and blessed and beautiful contrivance of salvation, and rendering salvation impossible to the greatest proficients in this study; and the grand patrons and practitioners in this new art, the greatest opposers of that grace of God, which b●…ingeth salvation unto all men. It is true, they will not plainly plead for profanity, Nay, they may and do make a great noise about the practice of piety, as if they were the only patrons thereof; that with less observation and greater facility, they may beguile themselves and their followers of the reward: they may possibly persuade even to a pinching of the body, that they may puff up, and pamper their fleshly mind; and while they overdrive men to the practice of will- worship, and performance of those things, which have a show of wisdom, it is that they may withdraw them from holding that blessed head, from which all the body by joints & bands, having nourishment ministered, and knit together, increaseth with the increase of God; yet the grace of God, that only living principle of all true piety, which they dispute out of the souls of men, that they may debauch them into a contempt of the Spirits working in men to will and to do, takes frequent vengeance on this their invention, by leaving them not only to play the Devil in disguise, that they may be known by their fruits; but also to lay aside that garb of external godliness, (for the Devil nor his Domestics cannot long wear a straight doublet) that it may appear, how it is verified in them, from him that hath not shall be taken away even that he hath; which is so plain, that to many of these pleaders for this new way, and their pros●…lyts, in the righteous judgement of God, it happeneth according to the true proverb, the dog is turned to his own vomit again, and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire.  
It cannot escape thy observation, how busy Satan is this day, upon the one hand, to keep men, under the call of the Gospel to give all diligence to make their calling and election sure, idle all the day; so that no persuasion can induce them to engage seriously to fall about a working out their own salvation in fear and trembling; and on the other, equally diligent and industrious to divert men from trusting in the name of the Lord, and staying upon their God; setting them on work to go and gather fuel, and kindle a fire, and compass themselves about with sparks, that they may walk in the light of their own fire, and in the sparks that they have kindled; knowing well that they shall this way most certainly lose their toil and travel, and have no other reward at his hand of all their labour, but to lie down in everlasting sorrow, while the stout hearted and far from righteousness, and salvation, shall get their soul for a prey, and be made to rejoice in his salvation, and bless him who hath made them meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light.  
It is fit therefore, in order to thy own establishment in the present truth, and that thou mayest so work, that thy labour be not in vain, but God may accept thy works, often to think, and seriously to consider in thy own soul, what that Gospel holiness is, and what these men substitute in the place of it, that thou may choice the perfect and pleasant way of Gospel holiness, and exercise thyself to that godliness, which is profitable for all things, having the promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come.  
I am neither the fit person for so great an undertaking, nor do these limits, within which I must bond myself, permit me to expatiat, in many notions about the nature of this excellent and precious thing, true Gospel holiness: Oh if, in the entry, I could on my own behalf and others, sob out my Alas, from the bottom of my soul, because, be what it will, it is some other thing than men take it to be: few habituat themselves to a thinking upon it, in its high nature, and soul enriching advantages, till their hearts receive suitable impressions of it, and their lives be the very transumpt of the law of God written in their heart; the thing (Alas!) is lost in a noise of words, and heap of notions about it, neither is it a wonder that men fall into mistakes about it, since it is only the heart possessed of it that is capable to understand & perceive its true excellency: But if it be asked, what it is? we say, it may be shortly taken up, as the elevation and raising up of a poor mortal unto a conformity with God; As a participation of the divine nature; or as the very image of God stamped on the soul, impressed on the thoughts & affections, and expressed in the life and conversation; so that the man, in whom Christ is form, and in whom he dwells, lives and walks, hath, while upon the earth, a conversation in heaven; not only in opposition to those many, whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things; but also to these pretenders unto & personaters of religion, who have confidence in the flesh, & Worship God with their own Spirit (which in the matters of God is flesh, and not Spirit) and have somewhat else to rejoice in, then in Christ Jesus, and a being found in him not having their own righteousness.  
True Gospel holiness than consists in some similitude and likeness to God, and fellowship with him, founded upon that likeness: there is such an impression of God, his glorious attributes, his infinite Power, Majesty, Mercy, Justice, Wisdom, Holiness, and Grace, etc. As sets him up all alone in the soul without any competition, and produceth those real apprehensions of him▪ that he is alone excellent and matchless. O how preferable doth he appear, when indeed seen, to all things? And how doth this light of his infinite gloriousness, shineing into the soul, darken & obscure to an invisiblenesse all other excellencies, even as the rising of the sun makes all the lesser lights to disappear. Alas! how is God unknown in his glorious being and attribute? When once the Lord enters the soul, and shines into the heart, it is like the rising of the sun at midnight: all these things, which formerly pretended to some loveliness, and did dazzle with their lustre, are eternally darkened: now all natural perfections and moral virtues, in their flower and perfections are at best looked upon as aliquid nihil: what things were formerly accounted gain and godliness, are now counted loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus the Lord; and the soul cannot only suffer the loss of them all without a sob, but be satisfied to throw them away as dung, that it may win him, and be found in him. Now the wonder of a Deity, in his greatness, power and grace, swallows up the soul in sweet admiration: O how doth it love to lose itself in finding here what it cannot fathom? And then it begins truly to see the greatness and evil of sin; than it is looked upon without the covering of pleasure or profit, and loathed as the leprosy of hell. Now the man is truly like God in the knowledge of good and evil, in the knowledge of that one infinite good, God; & to the knowledge of that one almost infinite evil, sin. This is the first point of likeness to him, to be conformed to him in our understanding, that as he knows himself to be the only self being and fountain good, and all created things in their flour and perfection, with all their real or fancied conveniencies being compared with him, but as the drop of a bucket, the small dust of the balance, or nothing, yea less than nothing, vanity; (which is nothing blown up, by the force or forgery of a vainly working imagination, to the consistence of an appearance) so for a soul to know indeed and believe in the heart, that there is nothing deserves the name of good besides God, to have the same superlative and transc●…dent thoughts of that great and glorious self being God, and the same diminishing and debaseing thought ●…o all things & beings besides him. And that as the Lord seeth no evil in the creation but sin, and hates that with a perfect hatred, as contrary to his holy will; so for a soul to aggravat sin in its own sight to an infiniteness of evil, at least till it see it only short of infiniteness in this respect, that it can be swallowed up of infinite mercy. But whence hath the soul all this light? It owes all this and owns itself as debtor for it to him, who opens the eyes of the blind: it is he who commands the light to shine out of darkness, who hath made these blessed discoveries, and hath given the poor benighted soul, the light of the knowledge of the glory of God, in the face of jesus Christ: These irradiations are from the Spirits illumination: it is the Spirit of wisdom and revelation that hath made day light in the darkened soul: the man who had the heart of a beast, as to any saveing or solid knowledge of God or himself, hath now got an understanding to know him that is true: now is Christ become the poor man's wisdom, he is now renewed in knowledge after the image of him that oreated him: he might well babble of spiritual things, but till now he understood nothing of the beauty & excellency of God and his ways: Nay, he knew not what he knew, he was ignorant as a beast of the life and lustre of those things, which he knew in the letter: nothing seemed more despicable to him in the world, then true godliness; but now he judgeth otherwise, because he hath the mind of Christ: the things, which in his darkness he did undervalue as trifles to be mocked at, he now can only mind and admire▪ since he became a child of light: now being delivered from that blindness and brutishness of Spirit, which possesseth the world, (and possessed himself till he was transformed by the renewing of his mind) who esteem basely of spiritual things and set them at nought, he prizeth as alone precious: the world wonders, what pleasure or content can be in the service of God, because they see not by tasteing how good he is: to be pryeing into, and poreing upon invisible things, is to them visible madness, but to the enlightened mind, the things that are not seen are only worth seeing, and while they appear not to be they only are; whereas the things that are seen appear but to be, and are not. Though the surpassing sweetness of spiritual things should be spoke of to them, who cannot savour the things of God, in such a manner as the giorious light of them did surround men; yet they can perceive no such thing: all is to them cunningly devised fables: let be spoke what will, they see no form, no comeliness, no beau●…y in this glorious object, God in Christ reconcileing sinners to himself. Alas the mind is blind●…d, the dungeon is within▪ and till Christ open the eyes, aswell as reveal his light, the foul abide●… in its blindnefse, and is buried in midnight darkness; but when the Spirit of God opens the man's eyes, and he is translated by an act of omnipotency out of the kingdom of darken●…sse into the kingdom of his dear son, which is a kingdom of marvellous light; O! what matchless beauty doth he now see in these things, which appeared despicable and ●…ke rothing to him, till he got the unction, the eye salve, which teacheth all things: now he sees (what none without the Spirit can see) the things, which God hath prepared for them that love him, and are freely given them of God; and these, though seen at a distance, reflect such rays of beauty into his soul, that he beholds and is ravished, he sees and is swallowed up in wonder.  
But then, in the next place, this is not a Spiritless inefficacious speculation about these things, to know no evil but sin and separation from God, and no blessedness but in the fruition of him; it is not such a knowledge of them as doth not principle motion to pursue after them. This, I grant, is part of the image of God, when the sun of righteousness, by ariseing upon the man, hath made day light in his soul, and by these divine discoveries hath ●…aught him to make the true parallel betwixt things that differ, and to put a just value upon them according to their intrinsic worth: But this divine illumination doth not consist in a mere notion of such things in the head, nor doth it subsist in enlightening the mind; but in such an impression of God upon the soul, as transforms and changes the heart into his likeness by love: knowledge is but one line, one draught or lineament of the souls likeness to him; that alone doth not make up the image; but knowledge rooted in the heart, and engraven on the soul, shineing & showing itself forth in a gospel adorneing conversation, that makes a comely proportion; when the same hand that touched the eye, and turned the man from darkness to light, and give an heart to know him, that he is the Lord, doth also circumcise the man's heart, to love the Lord his God, with all his heart, and with all his soul, and with all his mind▪ and this love manifesting its liveliness, in its constraining power to live to him and for him: light without heat is but wild fire; but light in the mind begetting heat in the heart, making it burn Godward, Christward, and Heavenward, light in the understanding setting on fire and enflameing the affections, and these shining out in a heavenly conversation, makes up the lively image of God, both in feature & stature, both in proportion and colour: faith begins this image and draws the lineaments; and love bringing forth obedience finishes, and gives it the lively lustre: the burneings of love in obedience to God is that which illuminats the whole, and makes a man look indeed like him, to whose image he is predestinate to be conform, and then makes him, who is ravished with the charms of that beauty, say, as in a manner overcome thereby, how fair is thy love, my Sister, my spouse? How much better is thy love, than wine, and the smell of thine ointments then all spices? But consider, that as these beams, which irradiat the soul, are from the Spirit of Christ, so that spiritual heat and warmth come out of the same airth, and proceed from the same Author▪ for our fire burns as he blows, our lamp shines as he snuffs and furnisheth oil: men therefore would not indulge themselves in this delusion, to think that, that which will pass for pure Religion and undefiled before God, consists either in an outward blameless conversation, or in putting on and weareing an external garb of profession: no, as the top of it reacheth higher, so the root of it lies deep●…r; it is rooted in the heart, this seed being sown in an honest heart (or making the heart honest, in which it is sown) takes root down ward, and brings forth fruit upward; as trees that g●…ow as far under ground as above, so these trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord that he may be glorified, grow as far and as fast under ground, as above; godliness grows as far downward in self emptying, self denial and self abaseing, in hungering and thirsting after more of righteousness, in the secret engagements of the heart to God in Christ, in these burstings of heart and bleedings of soul (to which God alone is witness) because of shortcomeing in holiness, because of a body of death within, and because of that law in the members warring against the law of the mind, and bringing often into captivity to the law of sin; as it grows upward in a profession: and this is that pure Religion and undefiled before God, which is both most pleasant to him, and profitable to the soul.  
But to make the difference betwixt dead morality, in its best dress, and true godliness, more clear and obvious (that the loveliness of the one may engage men into a loathing of the other, this dead ca●…ion and stinking carca●…e of rotten morality, which still stinks in the nostrils of God, even when embalmed with the most costly ointments of its miserably misled patrons) we say, that true godliness, which in quality and kind differs from this much pleaded for and applauded morality (a black heathen by a ●…el kind of Christians baptised of late with the nam●… of Christianity, and brought into the temple of the Lord, concerning which he hath commanded hat it should never, in that shape, and for that end it is introduced, enter into his congregation; and the bringers for their pains are like to seclude themselves for ever from his presence) It respects Jesus Christ. 1. As its Principle. 2. As its Pattern. 3. As its Altar, and. 4. As its end.  
First, I say, true holiness, in its being and operation, respects Jesus Christ as its principle: I live, (said that shineing saint) yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: as that which gives religion its first being, is the religation of the soul to God; so that which gives it motion, and draws forth that life into action, is the same God's working all their works in them and for them, so that in all they do, they are workers together with God; every act of holiness is an act of the soul made alive unto God through Jesus Christ, and quickened to each action by the supervenience of new life and influence: therefore, says Christ, without me you can do nothing: it is not, being out of me you can do nothing (for he spoke it to those who were in him) but if ye leave me out in doing, all ye do will be nothing: It's Jesus Christ who gives life and legs, so that our runing are according to his drawings: my soul followeth hard after thee (said that holy man;) but whence is all this life and vigour? Thy right hand upholdeth me. O it is the upholdings and helpings of this right hand, enlargeing the man's heart, that makes a running in the way of his command●…ents; it is he who, while the saints worke-out the work of their own salvation, work●…th in them ●…th to will and to do: It is he, who giveth power to the faint, and who to them that have no might increaseth st●…ength; so that the poor lifeless, languishing lie by is made to mount-up with Eagles wings, and su●…mount all these difficulties, with a holy facility, which were simply insuperable, and pure impossibilities: now the man runs and doth not weary, because Christ draws; and he walks and doth not faint, because Christ, in whom dwells the fullness of the Godhead bodily, dwells in him, and walks in him, and dwells in him for that very end, that he may have a completeness and competency of strength for duty: all grace is made to abound unto him, that he always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound unto every good work: he is able of himself to do nothing, no not to think any thing as he ought, but he hath a sufficiency of God, whereby he is thoroughly furnished unto every good work; so that he may say, I am able for all things, it is more than I am able to do all things (as we read it) its just import is. I am able to do all things, and to endure all things; and that which keeps it from vain boasting is what is add led, through Christ which strengtheneth me, or putting power in me, or rather impowering me, which is by a supervenient act drawing forth life into a liveliness of excercise, according to the present exigent. There is a power in a saint, because Christ is in him, that over powers all the powers of darkness with out, and all the power of indwelling corruption within, so that when the poor weak creature is ready to despond, within sight of his duty, and say because of difficulty, what is my strength that I should hope? Christ saith, despond not, my grace is sufficient forthee, and my power shall rest upon thee, to a reviveing thee, and raising thee up, and putting thee in case to say, when I am weak then am I strong; his strength, who empowers me, is made perfect in my weakness, so that I will glory in my infirmities, and be glade in being graces debtor. But what power is that, which raiseth the dead finner, and carries the soul in its actings so far without the line, and above the sphere of all natural activity, when stretched to its utmost? O it is an exceeding great power, which is to them ward who believe, that must make all things, how difficult so ever, easy, when he works in them to will and to do, according to the working of his mighty power (or as it is upon the margin, & more emphatic, of the might of his power) which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand, etc. he that raised up the Lord Jesus from the dead, raiseth up believers also by Jesus, and being raised and revived by him, to walk in newnesse of life: the life of Jesus, in its communications of strength, is manifest in their mortal flesh, according to that of the same Apostle, the life that I live in the flesh (says he) I live by the faith of the Son of God: faith brings in Christ in my soul, and Christ being my life carries out my soul, in all the acts of obedience, wherein▪ though I be the formal agent, yet the efficiency and the power, by which I operat, is from him; so that I can give no better account of it, than this, I not I. But who then, if not you? The grace of God, says he, which was with me. But this mystery to our bold, because blind, moralists, of an indwelling Christ, working mightily in the soul, is plain madness and melancholy; however we understand his knowledge in the mystery of Christ, who said, the life I live in the flesh, etc. and from what we understand of his knowledge in that mystery, which he had by revelation, we understand, our moralists to be men of corrupt minds, who concerning the faith have made shipwreck; but what is that, the life I live in the flesh, & c? The ●…port of it seems to be this, if not more, while I have in me a soul animating my body, as the principle of all my vital and natural actions, I have Jesus Christ animating my soul, and by the impulse and communicate virtue and strength of an indwelling Christ, I am made to run the ways of his commandments, wherein I take so great delight, that I am found of no duty as of my enemy.  
Secondly, This gospel holiness respects Jesus Christ as its pattern. It proposeth no lower pattern for imitation, then to be conform to his image; he that is begotten again unto a lively hope, by the resurrection of Christ from the dead, girds up the loins of his mind (wh●…ch are the affections of his soul, lest by falling flat upon the earth he be hindered in running the race set before him, as looking to the foreruner his pattern) in this girdle of hope, that he may be holy in all manner of conversation, keeping his eye upon the precept and pattern, that his practice may be conform. It is written, saith he, Be ye holy for I am holy, the hope of seeing God, and being ever with him imposeth a necessity upon him who hath it, to look no lower, then at him, who is glorious in holiness; and therefore he is said to purify himself, even as he is pure; and knowing that this is the end of their being quickened together with Christ, that they may walk even as he walked; they, in their working and walking, aim at no less than to be like him; and therefore never sit down upon any attained measure, as if they were already perfect: the spotless purity of God expressed in his laws, is that whereto they study assimilation; therefore they are still in motion towards this mark, and are changed from one degree of glorious grace into another, into the same image, even as by the Spirit of the Lord, who never gives over his putting them to cleanse from all filthiness of the flesh and of the Spirit, till that be true in the truest sense, thou art all fair, my love, there is no spot in thee. And knowing that perfect fruition of him cannot be without perfect conformity to him, herein do they exercise themselves, to grow in grace, and to be still advancing towards some more likeness to his image, forgetting all their attainments, as things that are behind, and by their reachings forth unto that which is before, make it evident, that they make every begun degree of grace and conformity to God, a prevenient capacity for a new degree, which yet they have not attained. I know, our maralists look upon themselves as matchless, in talkeing of following his steps, as he hath left us an example: in this they make a flourish with flaunting effrontry, but for all their boasting of wisdom, such a poor simple man as I, am made to wonder at their folly, who proposeing, as they say, the purity of Christ for their pattern, are not even thence convinced, that in order to a conformity thereto, there is a simple & absolute necessity of the mighty operations of that Spirit of God, whereby this end can be reached; but while they flout at the Spirits working, as a melancholy fancy, whereby the soul is garnished with the beauty of holiness, and made an habitation for God, I doubt not to say of these great sayers, that they understand neither what they say, nor whereof they affirm: nay doth not their talking of the one, not only without seeing the necessity of the other, but speaking against it, say in the heart of every one, (who hath not the heart of a beast) that they have never yet got a sight of the holiness of that pattern, nor of their own pollutions and impotency; for if they had, they would give themselves up to Jesus Christ to be washed by him, without which they can have no part with him. O there will be a ●…ast difference, at the latter day, betwixt them who have given their black souls to Jesus Christ to bletch, when he shall present them without spot, not only clothed with wrought gold, but all glorious within, and these who have never dipped, yea who have despised to dip their defiled souls in any other fountain, save in the impure puddle of their own performances: this will make them loathsome in his sight, and cause his soul abhor those, whom have done this despite unto the Spirit of grace, as to slight that bl●…ssed fountain, opened for sin & for uncleanness, let them pretend as high as they will, to look to him, as a pattern, while (because the plague sore i●… got up in their eye) they look not to him as a price, no●… to the grace of Jesus Christ, as that which can only principle any acceptable performance of duty, he will plunge them in the ditch, and it Will cost them their souls, for rejecting the counsel of God against themselves, in not making use of him who came by water, as well as by blood.  
Thirdly, This gospel holiness respects Christ as the Altar. It is in him and for him that his soul is well pleased with our performance, this is the Altar, upon which thou must lay thy gift, & leave it, without which thy labour is lost, and whatsoever thou dost is loathed, as a corrupt thing. As believers draw all their strength from him, so they expect acceptation only through him, and for him: they do not look for it, but in the beloved: they dare not draw near to God in duty, but by him: this is the new and living way, which is consecrat for them: and if such, who offer to come to God, do no enter in hereat, in stead of being admitted to a familiar converse with God, they shall find him a consumeing fire: when the saints have greatest liberty in prayer (and so of all other performances, when their hearts are most lifted up in the ways of the Lord) they abhor at thinking their prayer can any otherwise be set forth before him as incense, or the lifting up of their hands as the evening sacrifice, but as presented by the great intercessor and perfumed by the merit of his oblation. If they could weep out the marrow of their bones, and the moisture of their body in mourning over sin; yet they durst not think of having what comes from so impure a spring▪ and runs thorough so polluted a channel, presented to God but by Jesus Christ, in order to acceptation; for as they look to the exalted Saviour, to get their repentance from him, so when by the pourings out upon them the Spirit of grace and supplication, he hath made them pour out their hearts before him, and hath melted them into true tenderness, so that their mourning is a great mourning, they carry back these tears to be washen and bathed in his blood, as knowing without this of how little worth and value with God their salt water is; but when they are thus washed, he puts them in his bottle, and then pours them out again to them in the wine of strong consolation: thus are they made glade in his house of prayer, and their sighs and groans come up with acceptance upon his Altar. O blessed Altar, that sanctifies the gold! This is that Altar, whereto the mocking moralist hath no right. It is by him, that the poor believer offers up his sacrifice to God continually; what ever he doth, in word o●… deed, he desires to do all in the name of the Lord Jesus: as he knows, He lives to make intercession, and to appear in the presence of God for his poor people, both to procure influences for duty, and plead for acceptation; so he depends upon him for both, as knowing he can never otherwise hear, or have it said unto him, well done, good and faithful servant. It may be he can do little, he hath but a mite to offer; but he puts it in the mediators hand to be presented to God: he hath not gold, nor silver, nor purple to bring, he can do no great things, he hath but goat's hair or rams skins, but he gives them the right tincture, he makes them red in the blood of Christ, and so they are a beautiful incarnate.  
Lastly, This Gospel holiness respects Jesus Christ as its last end: as it hath its being from him, so it is all directed toward the praise of his grace; while the believing soul in whom Christ dwells designs no l●…sse, and aims at no lower mark, than assimilition to God, and f●…uition of him, while he is endeavouring, always and in all things, to be unlike himself and what he was, that he may be like God; it is not to be like him on that wicked and wretched design, which man had at first in his eye, whereby he lost his God, and unmade a man▪ but it is that thereby he may be in better case to glor●…fy him, and that God may be the more endeared to his own soul, because of what he hath done for him, and commended and mad●… precious to the souls of others, while they take notice of what a change grace hath not only made in his most eminent appearances for God: he contracts himself into a disappearance, that God may appear and be seen, in the shin●…ing glory of his grace bestowed upon him: for the godly man of all men is ●…he most humble▪ this is the garb he cloaths himself with, if his face shine in his accesses to God, that pride may be h●…d f●…om his eyes, he wots not of it; the very thoughts of ●…obing God of his glory, and clothing himself with th●… spoils of his honour▪ are terrible to him, and looked upon as that wherein th●… soul resembls Satan most manifestly; and therefore that great practitioner, who ou●… stripped all others in doing and suff●…ring for God, dare not stand up to intercept the glory due to his Master, but ascribes all to him, with a neverthe less, nevertheless not I, but the grace of God which was with me: what hast thou, which thou hast not received, prevents his boasting, and imposeth the necessity of blessing the donor: the mark he aims at in his exerciseing himself to godliness, is mainly this, that men seeing his goods works may glorify his Father which is in heaven. As he knows, he acts not in his own strength, but in his, who counts him worthy of the high calling, and fulfils all the good pleasure of his goodness in him, and the work of faith with power; so he considers for what all this is, it is that the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified in us, and we in him, according to the grace of our God & the Lord Jesus Christ: and he hath a sweet complacency in complying with this God-exalting and grace-magnifiing design: when grace hath set a crown upon his head, and made him a king (for the meanest believer is truly a more illustrious Prince, than the greatest Potentat of the earth, not only because under his rags lies hide a title to a crown, and his expectation is to sit with Christ upon his throne; but because he is already crowned with loving kindness and tender mercies, and doth, while on the earth, sit together with Christ in heavenly places; Christ is possessed of glory in his stead, as his representee and head, and a man is all crowned and acknowledged as king, when his head is crowned) he knows he is made a priest al●…o, to sacrifice it to the giver; and therefore he casts down his crown before the throne with this, thou art worthy to receive glory and honour, etc. and he esteems the privilege of doing so●…, as great as the prerogative of having it set on: when he works hardest to adorn himself with the beauty of holiness, it is not so much that his beauty may appear perfect, as that that grace, to which he is a debtor for all his comeliness, may shine in its lustre; and his virtues, who hath called him to glory and virtue, may be showed forth: he designs not, in his diligence in duty, to be taken notice of as a singular saint, but his great and shineing singularity, which he doth most ambitionat, lies in this, that Christ, in the communications of his grace, and efficacy of his influence, may be admired in him, as in all that believe. In a word, as all he hath is of him and from him, so all he does or designs is for him and to him; it is Christ to him to live, in whom Christ lives: now this is the very nature of pure religion and undefiled, and that which completes the image of God, and puts it beyond all debat, that his soul hath received the stamp and impression of the royal seal on it, and that his heart is the epistle of Christ, written not with ink and pen, but with the Spirit of the living God, when his glory and the exaltation of the manifold grace, and manifold wisdom of God, in the contriveance of salvation, is upmost in his think, desireing, Projectings and endeavourings, and hath the first place in the roll of his wish; while other men seek their own things, it is his own, his only own, his one, his all, to seek the things of Christ, that blessed seeker, who came to seek him and save him; and being found of him, he endeavours to carry as one no more his own; the glorifieing of him in his body and Spirit, which are his, because bought by him, is his begun heaven; and the greatest errand he hath in heaven, is to get a more clear sight of that blessed object of all admiration and adoration, and to be in better case to cry him up for ever.  
Now this is but a short and general Character, drawn by an unskilful hand, of that holiness, which will abide the test, and be found true, when tried by the touch stone of the word.  
But let us, on the other hand, take a short view of what our moralists substitute in its place, as (in their account) both more beautiful to the eye, and more beneficial to the souls of men; wherein I intent to be brief. I might compend the account to be given shortly, and give it most exactly, yet trueln, in these few words. As the most undoubted deviation from, and perfect opposition unto the whole contriveance of salvation, and the conveyance of it unto the souls of men, as revealed in this gospel, which brings life and immortality to light, that fighters against the grace of God in its value and virtue can forge, stretching their blind reason to the overthrow of true religion, and ruin of the souls of men: for to this height these Masters of reason have in their blind rage risen up against the Lord and against his Anointed; this is the dreadful period of that path, wherein we are persuaded to walk, yea Hectored, if we would not forfeit the repute of men by these grand Sophies, who arrogat to themselves the name and thing of knowledge, as if wisdom were to die with them. The deep mysteries of salvation, which Angels desire to look into, and only satisfy themselves with admiration at, must appear as respondents at their bar, and if they decline the judge and court, as incompetent, they flee out and flout at subjecting this blind mole, man's reason, to the revelation of faith in a mystery. The manifold wisdom of God and the manifold grace of God, must either condescend to their unfoldings, and be content to speak in their dialect, or else these wits, these Athenian dictator's will give the deep things of God, because beyond their diveings, the same entertainment, which that great gospel preacher, Paul, met with from men of the same mould, kidney and complexion, because he preached unto them Jesus, what would this babbler say, said they; The Spirit of wisdom and revelation they know not, they have not, they acknowledge not; nay they despise him in his saveing, and soul- ascertaining illuminations; and the workings of that mighty power to them ward who believe, is to the men of this new mould (because they have not found it) an insufferable fancy, to be exploded with a disdain and indignation, which discovers what Spirit acts them in this opposition.  
But what do they say, that will found this charge, and free us from casting iniquity upon them? They are of age and can speak for themselves: when they have vomit out their gall against the imputed righteousness of Christ, and the new birth, and that holiness, which is imparted to the real members of Christ, with a scoffeing petulancy, they then make a great noise of holiness, as who but t●…ey; the thing they plead for and persuade unto▪ is a kind of holiness educed out of natural abilities, wherein Christ, the Spirit and the Gospel of the grace of God, is permitted no greater interest, nor allowed a more effectual adjuvancy, then to concur by way of precept, motive and example? Thi●… is now that admired and applauded Diana, morality. It is true, they will sometime chirt thorough their teeth (for what ever Christ, the Spirit and Gospel gets of our Moralists, it is against the hair, and they are hard put to it, ere they give it) a tepid acknowledgement, that the gospel doth afford men some special help, and is of singular use and advantage, in showing the way and rule with greater clearness, and guiding and directing how to walk in it with a plain perspicuity, and exciting by noble examples▪ and some do also add some faint and frigid motions of the holy ghost, in the dispensation of this truth, put forth to make men more forward; but all this salvo jure of the great Diana: so much and no more is yielded to the gospel, then to show men with clearness, how they may exert and put forth their proper and innat power, it affords them some special help in holding the candle, or rather snufing it, that so they may with more promptitud see how to operat, and by the motives it adduceth, and examples it brings, have a special provocation to the exercise of these virtues commanded: the gospel, with all it brings and doth, does no more but hold the candle, till these artists wove their web, shape and show their garment, and then let them see how to put it on▪ and being put on persuade them to wear it, as the highest beauty and chief ornament of the soul: this is all the provision they lay up for eternity, and in this dress and garb of guilded morality, they mind to address themselves to God, and appear before his tribunal with confidence of acceptation: they will bear their own charges to heaven, and carry a sum with them to purchase the possession of the saints in light, with a little abatement, which a mercy of their own moulding (for God mercy it is not) must make; and thus they make all sure.  
But what is all this noise, that these vain talkers make about holiness; they heap up words (which weep to be so abused) about virtue, love to God, mortification, etc. But they have really taken away our Lord Jesus Christ, and will not tell us where they have laid him, for fear we should go seek him, and foresake them. What are these rotten and loathsome rags, where with they would clothe us, that the shame of our nakedness may not appear, to that holiness, whereto we are predestinate before the foundation of the world, and whereto (in order to the obtaining of that salvation, even the glory of the Lord Jesus Christ, to which we are chosen) we are created again in Christ Jesus, and made meet to be possessed of by sanctification of the Spirit, and belief of the truth? What is all this tattle of theirs to the new birth, the saveing work of regeneration (without which a man cannot enter into the kingdom of God) the new creature, the new heart, having the law written in it, the Spirit which he puts within us, causeing us to walk in his ways; that noble principle of spiritual life, whereby we are quickened, raised from the dead, made alive unto God through Christ Jesus, disposed, inclined and enabled to live to God, and walk before him to all pleasing? Nay, according to the imposeings of these new dogmatists (beware of dogs, says the Apostle of the same size and sort of men) in stead of that principle implanted, and that power produced in us by the effectual operation of the H. G. working in us mightily, according to the workings of that mighty power, which was wrought in Christ, when raised from the dead; we must be content with some what, which was living, though lazy and dormant, in the natural powers of our own soul, now awakened out of its sopor, and educed into act by the mere application of external means: in a word, in stead of all that, which is purchased and procured unto us by the death of Jesus Christ, wrought in us by his Spirit (who takes of his, and shows it unto us) whereby our conformity to Jesus Christ is begun and carried on, we must be content with this morality (good Lord prevent such madness!) whose Principle is natural reason; whose Rule is the law of nature, as explained in the scriptures; whose use and end is acceptation with God, and justification before him; which is pure (impure) Pelagianisme, propagat now in Briton, where it had its unhallowed birth; a tremenduous signification of the high displeasure of God against these huffeing arrogants of this age, who, because they have not received the truth in love, are left to soul-murthering delusions, and for their dispiseing the unsearchable riches of Christ, held forth in the gospel, are left, in stead of embracing Christ Jesus into their soul as altogether lovely, whom God hath made unto us wisdom, righteousness, sanctification and redemption; to embrace in their bosom, and hug between their breasts this hellborn, and (after all the cost they have bestowed upon it, wherein they are at the expense of their precious soul, if repentance prevent it not) hell-blake brate, morality, in opposition to that gospel holiness, wherein conformity to God consists.  
It concerns thee, Christian Reader, whoso▪ ever thou art, carefully to observe, that the great design▪ the Devil this day drives in the world, i●… how to introduce a Religion, amongst these called Christians, which for the soul and substance of it is an Antichristian mass and medley, substitute and obtruded, in place of the marrow of the gospel, & mysteries of salvation: And though Christ be named amongst these perverters of the gospel; yet he is really exautorat and robbed of his offices; and while false ends are assigned, the great end of his coming in the world is denied, and the blessed intendment and design of the gospel of the grace of God is defeat. Now because Satan finds no mids so proper for his purpose, nor mean so certain to accomplish his end, as to corrupt the minds of men with perverse principles (for they are more than half way to hell, when their principles state them in an opposition to them Prince of life) he perverts them into a nauseating of the plain path way of salvation by a slain Saviour (for the preaching of the cross, what ever they pretend, is really to them foolishness) and seduceth them into a satisfaction with, and pleading for this pagan piety, as preferable to pure Religion and undefiled before God: And then under this mask of morality, and disguise of virtue, doth Abaddon muster all his several legions, and manage his opposition against the Mediator, in the coming of his kingdom in the world, and conquering the souls of men. It is true, there may be some small differences betwixt his forces when gathered in the field, in their manner or method, and mark; some attacqueing the gospel in the very substance of it, with a flouting and fierce insolency, others with a subtle and snarkeing fullenness; but all of them concentre in the design, and bewray such a keenness and diligence in driveing it, as shows both under whose banner they fight, and how true they are to their colours and Captain: herein Papists, Pelagians, Socinians, Arminians, and (the compound of all abominations) Quakers are unite. And r●…uely if I might be heard, I would beseech also our pepper corn men to consider, how far the Adversary of man's salvation hath improved their assertions and concessions, and how much advantage the common enemies of the truth have got thereby.  
Take notice therefore, I say, Christians, of this, being Satan's main design, and how and by whom it is managed, lest ye be seduced into the same conspiracy; for many, who seemed to be of understanding, have fallen; and fallen, because the did not fear to fall: O beware, lest ye also being led away with the error of the wicked fall from your own steadfastness; but study to grow in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour (for there is none other name given und●… heaven, whereby men may be saved) Jesus Christ▪ I know, that every Reader and serious Christian▪ in order to his own establishment, is not able to purchase, nor is at leisure to peruse what Godly men have written for this end, and whose praise, because of their pains, is in the Church of Christ, such as that large discourse of learned and truly religious Doctor Owen, upon the Holy Spirit●… wherein that worthy Author, as he hath given▪ proof to the world of Christ's being form in him, and that his working, and walking, and witnessing to the truth▪ proceeds from the same noble principle, Christ dwelling in him, and walking in him; so he hath with a profound perspicuity, and convinceing plainness, discovered the nature, pedigree, descent and tendency of this monster; and then, having discovered whence it came, and for what end, he hath given it a mortal blow, whereby he hath laid it all alongs, and left it sprawling and gnawing its tongue and gnashing its teeth: for which learned, elaborat and judicious discourse, as all the lovers of that truth, which is according to godliness, are obliged to bless the Lord; so are they under the obligation of thankfulness to him; and by this I return him my poor insignificant thanks, And I have the allowance of the Author, to do the same in his name.  
But I would recommend to you, who can neither purchase nor peruse what is more voluminous (how worthy soever) the serious perusal, as of the whole of that savoury & grace-breathing piece. The fulfilling of the Scriptures; so therein that short but sweet digression, against blake-mouthed Parker, wherein the gracious Author takes out his own soul, and sets before thine eye, the image of God impressed thereon; for while he deals with that Desperado by clear and convinceing reason, flowing natively from the pure fountain of divine revelation, he hath the advantage of most men, and writers too, in silencing that blasphemer of the good ways of God. with arguments taken from what he hath found acted upon his own soul. And likewise I would recommend, as a sovereign antidote against this poison, the diligent peruseing, and pondering of what is shortly hinted against the hellish belchings of the same unhallowed Author, (in the preface to that piece of great Mr. Durham, upon the Commands) by a disciple, who, besides his natural acuteness and subactness of judgement in the depth of gospel mysteries, is known by all who know him (and for myself, I know none now alive his equal) to have most frequent access to lean his head on his Master's bosom, and so in best case to tell his fellow disciples and brethren, what is breathed into his own soul, while he lives in these embraces, and under the sheding abroad of that love of God in his soul, which drew, and did dictat these lines▪ against that flouter at all such fruitions. Nor can I here omit to observe, how when the devil raised up Parker, that Monster, to bark and blaspheme, the Lord raised up a Merveil to fight him at his own weapon▪ who did so cudgel and quell that boasting Bravo▪ as I know not if he be dead of his wound, but for any thing I know, he hath laid his speech.  
But to close this short account of that new gospel, that other gospel introduced and obtruded upon us, with a foameing flourish of words; and to say it before thee, in its pure and perfect opposition to the gospel of the grace of God, take a short compend of it, in the words of one of its great patrons, they are set down in that new piece, called Claustrum animae Pag. 114. where the Author having cited some scriptures, which do indeed press and persuade to the practice of pure religion and undefiled, lest his morality should suffer loss, and be found reprobat metal, if tried by such a touchstone, he guards his Reader from falling into such a mistake (a dangerous one it is indeed to his design, for if thou fall in it thy soul is escaped out of his cloister, he loses his prey, and he will not be able to car●…y thee hood-winked to the pit) as if he meant or were pressing that holiness, which for its foundation hath peace with God through Christ Jesus, and for its working principle hath the life of God, whereby the dead is quickened; and for its progress the renewed influences of the Spirit: no, by no means, he clears himself that he is of a far other mind, and therefore to make his Reader of his mind too, he adds— Here is nothing to countenance these frightful fanatical pangs of the new birth, which proceed from Enthusiasm or Melancholy, nothing to countenance the 〈◊〉 applications of a barrowed or rather snatched away righteousness: why not? The change (says he) that our religion requires, the scripture supposeth it in all that have embraced Christianity, Pag. 113. And again to the same purpose Pag, 114. in opposition to the new creature, which he mocks and murders, the real change in our affections is supposed and recommended (Pelagius redivivus) which is this upon the matter; it is frightful, fanatical melancholy, mad fancy to talk and tell people of being borne again, of quickening the dead: no, the soul is alive, itis not dead, itis but at worst a little drowsy or a sleep; there needs no more but knock at the door, and the man will rise and run in the way of commanded duties, and acquire more liveliness and agility by a frequent and reiterate eduction of his innare power into act: let objective grace be but given (and to these great wits every stone and brute is a bible, on which they can read, what will regulat them in their walk; so that there is no simple necessity of the scriptures to them, for making them wise to salvation: these concur only ad bene esse, and are given ex superabundante); there is subjective grace enough; one needs not go without the powers of his own soul, to seek a sufficiency; he can will, and he can do, without a dependence upon any real life-giving power, or supervenient influence, working in him to will and do: And then, in opposition to that fansieful, borrowed and snatched away righteousness (to him an odd and new devised doctrine) do and live is substitute at the close of the Paragraph: and that to him is the only way, how the offered salvation is obtained.  
Now Reader, if thou be not an utter stranger to the work of God upon the souls of his people, the poison dropped from this impure and impious pen, is so hell-blake and bitter, that it needs not my antidote; and it is so palpable and plain a perversion of the gospel, as will vindicat and acquit any thing, which hath been said of these perverters of the right ways of the Lord, and layers of another foundation, besides Jesus Christ▪ from the imputation of severity. Christ had told us, that the way to heaven is straight and narrow, and few find it; but out comes one out of the Cloister (I suspect hell is broke loose against us) and having laid aside Christ, who is the door, and the way, and the light, and the life, shows us an easy, plain and pleasant way to heaven.  
Well, before thou follow such a▪ guide, I desire thee to take notice, how well the all of what is contained in this cursed claustrum, doth agree unto, and is a just commentar upon what is prefixed in his frontispiece, wherein he hath Christ drawn upon the cross, but not satisfied to crucify him in effigy, he, through the whole of his discourse, doth really crucify him again, and put him to an open shame▪ the sense and soul of every line, as it lies in his book, & is leveled to his design, is away with him, away with him, he calls himself the Lord our righteousness, take away that name from him, we own him not, we acknowledge him not, as our righteousness, we will not beg nor borrow a rob from him, our own mantle of morality must be to us, in stead of this Mediator: and for the two thiefs that must be crucified with him, the one is the new birth, the other is the all of that gospel obedience, performed by virtue of supervenient influences, communicate from that sole spring of spiritual life, Christ dwelling in the soul of the regenerate person: two (in their account) as great thiefs as ever run, for they have stole away mistress morality her plumash, and stripped her of her ornaments, so that it is impossible to hide the shame of her nakedness but in their death, and for this must they be taken and crucified with their Master, that morality, having what these took from her restored, may bewitch the world with her beauty, and ravish them with her charms. And for his title to his book, The love of jesus, I▪ judge, considering, how he explains it in his book, and how true he is to his undertaking, this question is a suitable return to it, betrayest thou the son of man with a kiss? O he is killing kind, it is not enough that he act Pila●…'s part▪ unless he act judas his part also. But why did he not speak more modestly of the new birth, lest men should remember that it was Jesus his own doctrine? Why? (the man goes not mad without reason) first because in prejudice to morality, and its merit, he had delivered this doctrine with such a severe certification, that there is no seeing the kingdom of God without it. But secondly lest any thing of the solemnity, that attended the crucifieing of Christ, should be wanting, after he hath nailed him upon the cross, and thrust a spear in his side, falls a mocking, to increase his pangs; for having taught so frightful, fanatical, enthusiastic and melancholy a doctrine, as the necessity of being in pangs of the new birth, if ever men would be in heaven.  
However, I perceive some are now upon a reformation (good news if true, for the world will bear them witness of its necessity.) But is this it? is this the mode of the Religion to be introduced with such a pomp and parad? Is this the reformation, that the reformed Church must be taken away and thrown down, to make way for the erection of this new monastery? Well, when it is built (which only mercy can prevent) to give it its due, you see, less cannot be written over the poarch of this edifice, if according to the pattern, than this; The unclean spirit that was cast out, is returned, and hath taken possession, with seven devils worse than himself.  
Now while Satan drags most men with their own consent, thorough the puddle of gross profanity, & these swine, swallowed up in sensuality▪ run as he drives (being led captive of him at his pleasure) without all dread of being drowned in the lake, where he will land them. And while he besots the soreing wits of the age, into a slighting and setting at naught the glorious Saviour, with that invaluable and precious salvation, which he brings to poor self destroyed sinners; some few there are, whom he will not want, and whom he will not suffer to wander from the refuge and resting place of souls, and whom he will not suffer to rest satisfied while they want him; these he delivers from the imposeings of Satan, and the betrayings of their own deceitful and desperately wicked heart, by opening their eyes, so that they are made to approve the things, which are more excellent, being taught of God, and are prevailed with, through the efficacious persuasions of that grace, which will take no refus●…l from some, to subject their consent unto the gospel▪ But Alas! even many of these, into soul the light hath shined, and who have a living principle implanted in them, which will spring up into everlasting life; (and therefore cannot miss of the end of their faith, the salvation▪ of their souls) yet how busy is Satan, and how doth he hang upon their working hand, so that the good which they would that they do not; and in this he hath the concurrence of that law, which is in their members, carrying them impetuously to do what they would not, and captivating them unto that law of sin, which is in their members? How often Alas! are they engaged by the sly suggestions of Satan, and specious solicitations of their own hearts, into things unworthy of their high and holy calling; so that however grace, which prevented them at first, will also rescue them at last; yet by their untender way and walk, as they rob God of the glory of his grace, in not showing forth his vertue●… in all things, they also deprive themselves of the comfort thereof, through their uncircumspect walking, and of that sweet inward serenity of mind, and unspeakable joy, which is to be had in fellowship with him; and in the end must suffer loss, by heaving their works burnt, and they themselves but almost, yea scarcely saved; saved they must be (because on the foundition) yet so as by fire; while the tender Christian, who exerciseth himself to godliness, hath a sweet life, his heaven is serene and clear, his study to purge his heart from corruption and cleanse his hands in innocency, keeps his interest unclouded; his care not to grieve the Spirit in his workings, delivers him from the grief, flowing from the Spirits ceasing to witness; he so thinks on whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report, as to do them, knowing this is the way to have that peace of God, which passeth all understanding, to guard his heart and mind through Christ Jesus: he who hath a conversation in heaven, cannot want a consort of sweet music in his own soul. O what melody must it make in the soul, how sweet must the chirpings and chimeings of such a bird be singing in the bosom, as the testimony of a man's consesence, that in simplicity and Godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdom, but by the grace of God (O mark how the crown of his gloriation and gladness is put upon grace's head!) he hath his conversation in the world; and then when he hath served his generation thus, according to the will of God, having made it his work, as one made partaker of the divine nature, to add one grace to another, he enters his harbour (O glorious landing, where God is seen, and glory dwells!) with a room sea, and a porting wind: for says the Holy Ghost, an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and saviour jesus Christ: whereas the man, whose work it hath not been, so to walk as he might adorn the doctrine of God the saviour, in all things, & hold forth in his way the word of life, dies often in the dark, because he did not walk as become a child of light: & though that God, whose gifts & calling are without repentance, may save him; yet his glory may require it, to withhold from him the testimony of the Spirit, which is by water, and never, while he is in this world, either let himself or others wit of it, nay not only so, but he may go off the stage with horror, and go out of this life under the terrors of God; for, though the Spirit of God being the spirit of truth will never alter the word that is gone out of his mouth; and once having said, thou art a son, and in a gracious state, will never again say, thou art no son, and thy grace is no grace; but yet, when his conscience awaks upon him, and aggravats his guilt, from what he had formerly been helped to do, and stings him till he roar by reason of the disquietness of his heart, and all his evidences for heaven are so blurred, (though not delet) as there is not one legible letter in them, he cannot say, when he is just laying speech, that he hath one token for good; and in this mist, the sincerity and reality of the whole may not only be questioned, but denied. The Spirit, I say, though once having wrought the good work, and translated the soul out of a state of bondage into a state of glorious liberty, will never again deny his own work; yet may he stand by silent, and say nothing, and see the poor man, whom he will save for all this (as a just punishment for his untenderness, and that all, who hear or look on, my learn to walk more circumspectly, and take heed of grieving the Spirit, whereby they are sealed) expire under these pangs, throws, toss, terrors, affrightments, and soul-distracting fears, wherewith he was filled and overwhelmed, under the first workings of the Spirit of bondage.  
But besides these, a little lovely flock there is, a few number, who through grace obtain mercy to walk, as hating the garment spotted with the flesh; they make Religion their business; it is their one thing, to abstain from all appearance of evil; and to excercise themselves to godliness: by the circumspection of their walking, it is evident, they are upon their watch, and make it their work, not only to keep their heart with all keeping, but so to keep themselves in their converseings in the world▪ amidst a crowd of snares, and throng of tentations, as that evil one touch them not: they carry as knowing that Satan, who goeth about seeking whom he may devour, way ●… lays them, and watches to catch all advantages against them; and therefore as not ignorant of his devices, they study sobriety and vigilancy, left through a secure incircumspection they be circumvented, and give him the advantage he seeks; and so bear the mark of his black hand: yea some of these, at some rare times, do not only satisfy themselves to carry as defendants, but are helped to such a heroic heavenly and Christ-like resistance, as to make Satan flee from them; and when they, through him who strengtheneth them unto the battal, (and will at last once for all and for eve●…, tread Satan under their feet, and make the weakest wriggling, that ever gave up their names to the Captain of salvation, set their feeble feet as more than conquerors upon the neck of the great red dragon, and off his neck, to his everlasting confusion, mount up in their triumphing chariot, and receive the conquerors crown) have acquit themselves, as the good soldiers of Jesus Christ, not only in warding off the blows of that soul enemy, but in managing the sword of the Spirit, and the shield of faith, so in the conflict, as they make the enemy, who stretched out the hand to strike at them, take in a stump, they then pursue their victory, on purpose to set the crown on the Captain's head, through whose strength alone they gained it. But Alas! even amongst this select number, these more serious souls and single servants of God, how few do improve, as they ought and might, that strength and help, which is their allowance▪ and whereby they might be made strong for the labour of Religion? How many, of these few followers after holiness, do move slowly, and promove little? They cannot give over the study of holiness, (their heart being engaged to God and his ways, beyond a retreat) but how heartless and handless are they at their work? They tug at duty, and tyre themselves in the ways of God, without any seen success, or experiencing the sweet of his service; their profiting doth not appear to all, which, as it is their sin, is also attended with shame and sorrow: yea, they carry so despondently in duty, as if the gospel required brick without furnishing straw, whereas if they took the right way, they might walk without wearying; even the faint, and they who have no might, if they knew, and had learned how to lay their help upon him, who is mighty, where God hath laid it, should find their strength increased, to a surmounting of all difficulties, and an experienceing of a sweet facility in the ways of God, so that in stead of whining and sobing over their duty, of which they are often found as an enemy, and sinking under a hand ●… weakening despondency, they might sing in the sweet, pleasant and plain ways of holiness, they might make his statutes their songs in the house of their pilgrimage, and be able from their own experience to say it and seal it, that his yoke is easy, and his burden is light.  
Now, that the less tender, in whom the root of the matter is, may be persuaded and provoked to a shineing seriousness, to the adorning of that doctrine of God, the Saviour, which they profess: And they whose souls are not only biased towards the ways of God, but have some holy habitual bentness heaven- wards, and it is their burden that the whole of their course doth not evidence a conversation in heaven: To the end, I say, that both may not only be prevailed with, to study more conformity to the Head, whose members they are, and have a conversation such as becometh the gospel indeed; but may through grace acquire a blessed facility▪ in going from strength to strength, and growing strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might, this ensuing Treatise is put in thy hand, that thy heart may be lift up, in the waves of the Lord, wherein the Author hath, with a peculiar perspicuity and special plainness, not only set before thine eye that blessed Sun of righteousness, as shineing in this gospel with a meridian brightness, to the irradiating, with the rays of his glorious light, the darkened soul; & likewise thou hast him not only here held forth as that alone living fountain and overflowing spring of all spiritual life and strength. But he hath taught thee and me, how to make use of him, in whom dwells the fullness of the God head bodily, in all the several steps of darkness or difficulty, which may emerge and occur, to the foreslowing us in our course of Christianity, so as we may find a completeness and competency of strength communicate unto us. That blessed high way, called the way of holiness, is made so plain herein, that the way faring man cannot err in it, because it shows how to give the hand to God, as a gu●…d to Jesus Christ, that blessed leader, who brings the blind by a way that they know not, and leads them in paths that they have not known, who makes darkness light before them, and crooked things strait: And the apparently rough and rigid ways of godliness are discovered to be so easy and sweet, that the lame may leap as an hart, because of life-giveing influence; and the tongue of the dumb or disconsolat Christian may sing, under these gracious supporting, and say, his ways are indeed ways of pleasantnesses.  
It was not the Author's design in this piece, (leveled only at this mark, to teach thee how to make use of the strength and grace, that is in Christ Jesus, and find the promised ease in performance of duties; in handleing of which argument, he hath been remarkably assisted; and thou canst not read with attention, but thou must bear him witness, and bless the Lord on his behalf, that he hath hit the mark at which he aimed) to engage in a formal debate with these audacious moralists, who would boast and bogle us out of the good old way▪ wherein if men walk they must find rest to their souls: yet if by the doctrine he hath here explained and pressed, as the only way of life, they do not find, what a mortal wound he hath given their morality, all the lovers of the truth will see it; and it may be, the Lord spareing life, and continueing the same gracious and great assistance, he hath had in engageing with many great adversaries to the truth at home & a broad, they may see somewhat from his pen▪ which may make the lovers of our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity, and of the operations of his Spirit, sing over these successors to Sisera, who with their jumping chariots and rattleing wheels assault the truth, at his feet they bowed, they fell, they lay down at his feet, they bowed, they fell where they bowed, there they fell down dead; so let all the enemies of thy truth perish, O Lord. How to make the whole more useful for thee, for whose advantage it's mainly intended I leave to the Author's own direction; only this I must say, his method and mould, wherein he casts this sweet matter; and his way of handling this so seasonable a subject, it so accommodat to each case, and brought home to the conscience, and down to the capacity of the meanest Christian, which was his aim, that the feeble, in this day, might be as David; that howbeit many worthy men have not only hinted, but enlarged upon the same matter, yet thou canst not but see some heart-endeareing singularity in his way of improveing and handleing this great gospel truth. Next I must tell thee▪ that as I myself read it with much satisfaction (though Alas! I dar not say, I have by reading reaped the designed advantage so that thou mayest be blushed into a peruseal thereof, and profiting thereby, I must likewise tell thee, I say, it hath been turned into dutch, and that it hath not only met with great acceptation, amongst all the serious and Godly in these parts, who have seen it; but is much sought after; and they profess themselves singularly thereby edified, and set a going after God, by its efficatious perswasivenesse, with a singing alacrity; and if it have not the same effect upon thee and me, they▪ and it will rise up against us in judgement.  
Up therefore, Christians, and be doing: listen to such a teacher, who, lest thou tyre in thy race or turn bake, teacheth thee a certain and sweet way of singular proficiency and progress in the ways of God. It may be, it is not thy work▪ nor mine, to writ books against these soul murdering, however magnified, methods of takeing men off Jesus Christ; but our pe●…ury of parts for that▪ should (1.) Put us to seek plenty of tears▪ that we may weep, to see our Master so wounded, by the piercing pens of those, who, to patronise their mock religion, wrest the Scriptures, and with wicked hands wring the word of the Lord, till it weep blood: this▪ I say, should provoke thee and me to weep upon Him, till He appear, and beat the pens of such deceivers out of their hand by a blow of his. (2.) It should provoke us to know the truth, that we may contend earnestly for the faith delivered to the saints, and to have these contradicted truths so impressed in their life upon our souls, that the pen of the most subtle pleader, for this perversion of the gospel, may neither delet th●…se, nor be able to stagger us, but we may from the efficacious workings of these, have the witness in ourselves, and know the men who teach otherways not to be of God. (3.) It should be our ambition, when the all of religion is cried down, and a painted shadow, a putrid (however perfumed) nothing put in its place, to make it appear by our practice, that Religion is an elevation of the soul above the sphere and activity of dead morality; and that it is no less or lower principle that acts us, than Christ dwelling in us, and walking in us: how can the love of God, & of Christ, & of the Spirit be in us, if these perverse pratters against, the power of godliness, provoke us not to emit a practical declaration to the world, & extort a Testimony to his grace by our way, from the enemies thereof▪ Improve therefore this his special help to that purpose, which in a most sensonable time is brought to thy hand.  
But to sum up all shortly, there are but three things which make religion an heavy burden. First, the blindness of the mind; & here thou art taught to make use of that eyesalve, whereby the eyes of the blind see out of obscurity and out of darkness he who formerly erred in Spirit, by the light held forth in these lines, may see a surpasseing beauty▪ in the ways of God. Secondly, That aversion and unwillingness, which is in the mind, whereby the sweet & easy yoke of his commands i●… spurned at as heavy; in order to the removing thereof; & that thou mayest be among his willing people, here thou hast Christ held forth in his conquering beauty, displaying his banner of love over souls, so that thou canst not look upon him as held forth, but ●…ith will bow thy neck to take on his yoke, because it sees it is lined with the love of Christ, & then this love, that line the yoke, shed abroad in the heart, will constrain to a bearing of it. O it must be an easy yoke, because itis love, tender love, that imposeth it; and it must be easy & delightful to the bearer, because itis the nature of love to think the greatest difficulties easy, if thereby an evidence of love's reality may be given to the party beloved: now, if Christ thought the greatest burden easy, even that which with its weight wrung these words from him, now is my soul troubled, etc. to persuade souls of the reality and riches of his love to them; Then the soul can think nothing heavy that he imposeth, since he will interpret the bearing of it an evidence of its love to him: none of his commandments can be grievous to the man now, since he hath said, This is the love of God, that ye keep his commandments. Now there is a readiness of mind to do all things without dispute & murmurings; as love knows no lion in its way, so it is no murmuring disputant; when this question is cleared, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do, than love hath no more questions; its greatest difficulty is solved. But Thirdly when the Spirit is willing, there remains yet much weakness, love kindled in the heart conquers the mind into a compliance with his will, and a complacency in his commands, but it's greatest strength is often to weep over a withered hand: now that thy hands which fall down may be made strong for labour, and thou mayest be girded with strength, and have grace for grace, yea all grace, to make thee abound unto every good word and work; The Author leads thee up unto the full fountain of all Gospel furniture, and strength; and teacheth thee how to make use of Jesus Christ, as thy sufficiency, for working all thy works in thee and for thee. Take heart therefore unto thee: when thy looking unto du●…y may make thee despair of performance, lift up thine eyes to him, who is here set before thee; look till every new look upward bring light and life inward, and capacitat thee for making a new louse forward, in the power of 〈◊〉 might: ●…he was but a wicked servant who said, I 〈◊〉 thou art a hard master: No, it is false. That religion which gives ease must be an easy religion; and truly such 〈◊〉 Gospel holiness, not only in regaird that it is the liberation of the soul from the basest bondage, but in regaird that he who is thy Master will be served of his own: the allowed supplies for all commanded duties▪ are full measure, heaped, up, shaken together, and running over. And though he who hath much hath nothing over, yet he 〈◊〉 hath little hath no inl●…ke, for he abounds towards us in 〈◊〉 wisdom. I say therefore again unto thee, take heart, let not thine hands fall down, essay nothing thou would have well done or easily done, in thine own strength▪ but yet how difficult so ever the duty be, approach it as having no confidence in the flesh, but with an eye to thy stoc●… that rich store house of all furniture, and it shall be with thee, as it was with the priests, before whom jordan recoiled, so soon as their foot entered within the 〈◊〉▪ God shall make thy difficulties vanish; and by the 〈◊〉 the Spirit of power and might, from Jesus Christ depended upon, shall so strengthen thee, that thy duty is made easy to admiration, and becomes the delight of thy souli 〈◊〉 I have exceeded the just limits of an Epistle: pray for the continuance of the life of the Author, who by his assiduous working for Christ, hath been often near unto death, not regarding his own life, to supply the lake of other meus service, 〈◊〉 the interest & Church of God; & let him be comforted for this piece of travel, undertaken for thy soul's m●…erest, by hearing thou dost improve it to thy advantage, for which it is so exactly calculat: And withal I beg thy fervent & earnest intercessions for grace, & more grace, to him who is.  
Thy poor, yet souls well wisher and servant for Christ's sake. R. Mc. W.   

The Author to the Reader.  
Christian Reader,  
AFter the foregoing address, I need not put thee to much more trouble: only I shall say; That he must needs be a great stranger in our Israel, or sadly smitten with that epidemic plague of indifferency, which hath infected many of this Generation, to a benumbing of them, and rendering them insensible, and unconcearned, in the matters of God, and of their own souls; and sunk deep into the gulf of dreadful inconsideration, who seeth not, or taketh no notice of, nor is troubled at the manifest and terrible appearances of the unexpressibly great hazard, our all, as Christians, in this life, is this day into. I mean the mystery of the Gospel of the grace of God, wherein the exceeding riches of His grace, in his kindness towards us, through Christ Jesus, hath been shoes: We have enjoyed, for a considerable time, a clear and powerful dispensation hereof, in great purity and plenty; but Alas! is it not manifest to all, that will not wilfully shut their eyes, that this Mercy, and Goodness of God, hath been wickedly abused, and the pure administration of His Grace & Love perfidiously sinned away, by this Apostate Generation? Are our spots this day the spots of his children? Are there fruits answerable to the Lord's pains and labour about us, to be seen even among the greatest of Professors? Is there that gospel holiness, tenderness, watchfulness, growing in grace and in the knowledge of Jesus Christ, that growing up 〈◊〉 Christ, in all things, that heavenly mindedness, that followshipe with the Father and with his Son Christ jesus, and that conversation in heaven, that the dispensation of grace, we have been favoured with beyond many, and have been long living under, did call for at our hands? Alas! our grapes are but wild and stinking. Wherhfore (and who can think it strange, if it be so?) the Lord seemeth to be about to contend with us, by covering our horizon with Egyptian darkness: many, who would not receive the love of the Truth, that they might be saved; being already given up to strong delusion, that they should believe a lie, and many more in hazard to be drawn aside to crooked paths, by men of corrupt minds, who have been, and are still busy to vent and spread abroad, with no little petulancy and confidence, damnable doctrines, to the perverting of the doctrine of the Gospel of jesus Christ, and to the subverting and overturning of the very foundations of our Hope & Assurance; and that in such a way, and by such means and stratagems, as seem to have wrath written upon them, in legible letters; for the more plausible and taking a corrupt doctrine be, it is the more dangerous, & judgment-like, and moe are thereby in hazard to be deluded and drawn away.  
Nay (which is yet more terrible and dreadful) it is to be feared, that the jealous God, in his holy and righteous judgement, hath given a providential commission (to speak so) unto the seduceing Spirit, to persuade and prevail: for is not this the clear language of the present holy and righteous dispensations of God, and of the stupenduously indifferent frame and disposition of the generality of men, called Christians, not only provoking God to spew them out of his mouth, but disposeing them also unto a receiving of whatsoever men, lying in wait to deceive, shall propose and obtrude?  
Alas! the clouds are not now a gathering▪ but our horizon is covered over with blakness▪ and great drops are a falling, that presage a terrible overflowing deluge of error, and Apostasy from the Truth and Profession of the Gospel of jesus Christ, to be at hand▪ if the Lord wonderfully prevent it not. And behold (O wonderful!) the generality of Professors are sleeping in security, apprehending no danger. Satan is more cunning now, than to drive men to Popery by rage and cruelty; (and yet what he may be permitted to do after this manner, who can tell?) or by openly pleading, in his emissaries, for this abomination, (and yet even thus is he already prevailing with not a few) or to send forth his agents for Arminianism and Socinianism (though even this way too, he is too much prevailing.) But his main work now seemeth to be, to bring in another Gospel, (and yet there is not another) or rather an Antievangelick and Antichristian delusory dream, overturning at, once the whole Gospel of our Lord and Saviour jesus Christ; and for this end he inployeth the Quakers, one the one hand, Men of desperate and antievangelick principles, the very sink of all abominations, old and late (as I shall show, if the Lord will continue health and strength, in an examination of their doctrine and principles, lately emitted by one Robert Barclay) and on the other hand, Men (or Moralists if you will call them so) pleading for and crying up an antievangelick holiness, a mere shadow without substance or reality; and that in place of Christ himself; And in order to the carrying on of this desperate design, The old dragon is employing men of seeming different principles and ways, whom, though their faces seem to look to contrary a●…rths, yet he holdeth notwithstanding fast tied by their tails (as Samson's foxes were) that thereby, if the Lord permit it, he may, by the fire of enmity to the pure Gospel of the grace of God, burning in their tails▪ cause a confl●…gration of that Truth, wherein lieth all our hope: for this new model of Religion, that many are so busied about, is such as Pelagians, Arminians, Papists, Socinians, Quakers, yea Turks, and moral H●…athens; Yea and all, who are enemies to, and not reconcileable with the true grace of God held forth in the Gospel, will willingly admit of, and harmoniously agree in: A way, which complyeth so well with proud self, and with the Corrupt Nature of Man, that it is little wonder, if it have many abettors and admirers. I shall say no more of this, seeing my beloved Brother hath said so much to it already to very good purpose, in the foregoing Epistle; but only infer,  
That sure the consideration of this should move all, in whom is any thing of the zeal of God, and love to souls, their own and others, to appear in the defence of the Gospel of our Salvation, by all means, incumbent to them, and possible for them: for if this Citadel, & strong hold, wherein our All, and the all of pure and true Religion, lieth, be blown up, we are gone: and indeed no less is intended by this Antichristian and antievangelick enemy, than the utter subversion of True Christian Religion. Who would not then be hereby alarmed, and upon their guaird, when matters are at this pass? Should not all, who have any love to their own souls, any zeal for the glory of Christ, anointed of the Father to be our Prophet, Priest, & King; any desire to see the crown flourishing upon his Head, and to have the Gospel preserved pure and uncorrupted, be pleading with God by prayer, in the behalf of His Son's Kingdom, Crown, and Glory; and wrestling with Him, till He were pleased to dispel these clouds, & prevent this black day: Especially, should they not be labouring to be acquanted, in truth and reality, with the Gospel of jesus Christ, that having the mysterious truths thereof imprinted on their souls, and their hearts casl into its mould, they may be preserved from the hurt of this deadly poison: for this, with a constant dependence upon, and use making of Christ in all His offices, will prove the best preservative against this infection.  
The persuasion whereof did induce me to publish the following heads of some sermons, after they had been translated into dutch, and published here; knowing that they might be of no less use to the people of God, in Britain and Ireland. I know not a more effectual mean to keep unstable souls from sideing with and imbraceing every new notion; & from being carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; than to put them upon the real exercise of Gospel godliness, and to the daily practice of the main and fundamental gospel work, of living by faith in Jesus Christ and of growing up into Him, in all things, who is the Head, from whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted, by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body, unto the edifying of itself in love. Such, I am sure, as have thus learned the Truth, as it is in jesus, and are practiseing the same accordingly, will have an Antidote within them against the strongest poison of these Seducers; and a real answer to, and confutation of all their subtle sophisms. The soul exerciseing itself unto Gospel godliness, will find work enough to take it wholly up▪ and find such a solid ground to stand upon; and see such a satisfying fullness, answering all its necessities and wants, & such a sure heart-quieting ground of Peace, Hope and Consolation, in jesus Christ, as that it will have no leisure, and small temptation to listen to Seduceing perverters, and no inclination to seek after empty Cisterns.  
I know much may be desiderated, in this following Treatise, and many may have exceptions, not without ground, against it: Some may think it arrogancy and too great confidence in me, to attempt the handling of such a mysterious & necessary part of Christian practice, wherein few, (if any so far as I know) have gone before, in direct handling of this matter, at least in this method & order; I mean that part, which is about Sanctification: others may be displeased with the mean & low stile; with my multiplying of particulars, which might have been better & more handsomely couched under fewer heads; and with my uncessary contracting of the whole, into such narrow bounds; and other things of that kind: for which & many other failings of the like nature & import, which may without any diligent search, be found in it, even by ordinary & unprejudiced Readers, I shall not industriously labour to apologise, knowing that my very apology, in this case, will need an apology: Only I shall say this, That considering how the snare, which the vigilant & active enemy of our Salvation, the Devil, was laying, by an unholy morality, did nearly concearne all, & especially the meanest (for parts & experience) and less fixed Christians, I thought a discourse on such a subject, as I judged most necessary at all times, & especially in such a day of hazard, should be framed to the capacity of one, as well as another; the most understanding can receive benefit, by that which is calculat to the capacity of children, when these can reap little edification by what is suited to the palate of those: & the less experienced, or such as are of lower understanding, will be less able to draw a General to a Particular; or to improve, & so fully to comprehend one particular touched, as to be able thereby to understand, & take in a like particular, not mentioned; than such, as have their senses more exercised, and are thereby in case to make a better improvement of what is but compendiously declared, when those must have the bread brocken to their hand, or they shall receive but small edification thereby: and yet, I suppose, the judicious will observe some variety, smaller or greater, even where Particulars seem to be, at the first view, most unnecessarily multiplied. I know, and willingly grant (for it is obvious enough) that a discourse of this Subject and matter, might have required a fa●… larger volume; But then how should such have profited thereby, whom Poverty might possibly have scared from b●…ying; or the necessary affairs of their ordinary callings would have keeped from a diligent perusal of it? And I thought, that neither of these should have been overlooked, in this special, or general design, which I had before mine eyes.  
One thing, as my answer to all, I shall but add: If hereby Others, whom the Lord hath more enabled with all necessaries for such a work, shall be hereby either instigated, or encouraged, to write upon this Subject (I mean mainly the last part thereof, touching the usemaking of Christ, in Sanctification; for, blessed be the Lord, many have been employed of the Lord to speak sound and edifyingly, unto the usemaking of Christ as to Righteousness and Justification) and give a Full, Plain, Edifying and Satisfying discovery of this Necessary & Important Truth, viz. Christ made of God to us Wisdom, Righteousness, Sanctification & Redemption: and withal Point out plainly & particulary the way, how Believers, in all their Particular and various exigéncies, ma●… and should so make use of, and apply that all fullness, which is treasured up in the Head, for the benefit and advantage of the Members of the Mystical body, as they may not only theoretically see, but practically also experience this truth. That in Him they are complete; and so they may be helped to understand how, through the necessary & constant usemaking of Him, as all in all, they may grow up in Him, in all things: If this be, I say, done by any, to better purpose, I shall think this my adventure not altogether fruitless, & in part, at least, excusable.  
As for thee, O Christian, whose instruction, edification and confirmation in the Faith of our Lord jesus Christ, the faith which was once delivered unto the Saints, I mainly intended in this undertaking, I have a few things to add: know then that there are certain men (as the Apostle jude speaketh) crept- in unawares, who were of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord jesus Christ for in these last days, we see that these perilous times are come, (of which Paul advertised Timothy, 2 Tim. 3: 1. etc.) wherein mwn shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to Parents, unthankful, unholy, without natural affection, truce breakers, false accusers, (or make bats) incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, traitors, heady, high minded, lovers of pleasure morethan lovers of God, having the form of godliness, but denying the power thereof— for of this sort are they, which creep into houses, & lead captive silly women, laden with sins, led away with divers lusts, ever learning, & never able to come to the knowledge of the truth: And because it is so; be exhorted to give diligence to make your Calling & Election sure, by giving all diligence to add to faith virtue; to virtue knowledge; and to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; and to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall. As the Apostle Peter assureth us, 2 Pet. 1: 5, 6, 7, 10. for itis the Elect, who are secured from full and final defection and Apostasy, Mat. 24: 24. Mark. 13: 22. Rom. 11: 5, 7. & 9: 11. & 8▪ 33. Mat. 24: 31. Mark. 13: 27. and the promise of Salvation is made to such, as shall endure to the end. The Crown is for the Overcomers, & such as are faithful to the death, Mat. 10: 22. & 24: 13. Mark. 13: 1●…▪ Revel. 2: 10, 11, 17, 26, 27, 28. & 3: 5, 1●…, 21. All which, and the like, are sct down, that hereby his people might be rationally moved to a constant seriousness, in the working out of their own Salvation, in fear & trembling; and the forewarnings given of the great difficulty of reaching the end of our faith, the salvation of our souls, because of the many Active, Vigilant, Indefatigable, Subtle, and Insinuating adversaries, who by good words & fair speeches, will readily deceive the hearts of the simple, are to awaken the more His people to be sober & vigilant, because their Adversary, the Devil (who acteth and moveth his under-agents, in their several Modes, Methods and Motions, so as he may best, according to the various Tempers, Present Dispositions, Advantages or Disadvantages of such▪ as he intendeth to seduce, which he carefully studyeth, and plyeth for this end, obtain his designed end, their ruin and destruction) as a roaring lion, walking about seeking whom he may devour. And this calleth them to haste out of their slumber and security, lest their Adversary, who will be loath to miss his Opportunity, surprise them, to their great loss and disadvantage.  
It is, Beloved, high time now to awake, to look about us, to consider where we are, upon what ground we stand, whether the Enemy or we have the advantage, how and in what Postour we are, to rancontre with deceivers, that seek to cheer us of all, of our souls, and of our Salvation, because they would cheat us of the Lord our Righteousness, and draw us off the paths of life, that when we come to die (beside the unspe akable great loss we would thereby be at, even here, in missing the comfortable accestes to God, through lesus Christ, the inflowing of grace & strength for spiritual duty, through the Lord our Strength; the sweet communications of peace and joy in the holy Ghost; the sheding abroad of the love of God in our hearts, by the holy Ghost, which is given unto us, and the full assurance of hope, through the Lord jesus our hope) we might be frustrated of all our expectations; and find that all that, which Men made us grip to, lay hold on, and lean unto, in stead of Christ, was but a mere shadow, and a lie in our right hand, to the unexpressible grief, vexation and sorrow of soul, when all should end in a dreadful and horrible disappointment.  
But let us not think, that our Purposes, firme-like Resolutions, to adhere to the Truth, and our present Abhorrence at, and Detestation of errors now broached, to the overturning of the very foundations of true Christianity, will sufficiently guaird us from, and make us proof against the shoots and assaults of these crafty seducers: Nor think▪ that our learning and knowledge in the Theory of the Truth; nor our Abilities to rancontre Sophisters, will secure us from a fall: let us not think that the Enemies are contemptible, and therefore we need be the less anxious; nor yet think that former experiences & throughbearing, in the like cases, will be a pillow, whereupon we may now lay ourselves down to sleep: If we do, we shall certanely deceive ourselves, if all our strength & standing be in ourselves, and through ourselves; and if this be the ground of our hope, the Righteous Lord, in his holy justice, may give us up to be a Prey: Peter's instance should never be forgotten b●… us: and such as tempt the Lord have no ground to expect his last issue.  
Our strength must be in Christ: to the rock of ages must we flee: to our chambers in Him must we retire, and there must we hide ourselves: on Christ's lee side can we only ride self, and be free of the hazard of the storm. To Him therefore must our recourse be daily, by new & fresh acts of Faith. In and through Him and His Influences, communicated according to the tenor of the Covenant of grace, through Faith eyeing the Promiser, the Promise, with the Price purchaseing, and so drawing and s●…king Light, Direction, Strength, Stability, and what our present exigent calleth for, must we think to stand: and happy they, who conscious to themselves of their own weakness and convinced of the insufficiency of all things▪ within them, in Godly fear hide themselves under the wings of the Almighty, and get in into this Strong hold, resolving there to abide, and there to be secured from all their Adversaries, within, or without: These humble fearers may expect a saife & noble outgate; when more strong-like & more confident adventurers, shall (being left to themselves, because trusting in themselves) shamefully fall, and be triumphed over by the Enemy, to the grief of the Godly, and for a snare to others.  
The best way then, to keep the faith of Christ, which many are now seeking to shake, and to lose us from, is to be exerciseing the faith of Christ. The serious and upright practiseing of the Gospel is the only best mean to keep thee firm in the profession of the Gospel: when the Gospel with thee, is not a few fine notions in the brain; but is heavenly and necessary Truth sunk into the heart, and living and acting there; it will keep thee, and thou will own it, more firmly and steadfastly, in a day of trial. Thy walking in Christ, and working and living, by Him living in thee, will so root thee in the Gospel truth, that enemies will pull in vain, when seeking to overthrow thee. The Gospel of the grace of God, received and entertained in thy soul in love, and constant suitable improvement, will fortify thee, and secure itself in thee, so that vehement blasts shall but contribute to its more fixed abode, and more fruteful actings in thee. Live up then to the Gospel, and so be sure of it, and be saife in it. I mean, let Christ live in thee, as thy all, and cast all thy care and cumber on Him; lay all thy difficulties before Him; lean all thy weight upon Him; draw all thy necessities out of Him; undertake all thy duties in Him; be strong in Him, and in the power of His might; let Him by thy counselor, Conductor, Leader, Teacher, Captain, Commander, Light, Life, Strength and all, so shall thou stand, and have cause to glory, even in thy infirmities, for thou shalt find the power of Christ resting upon thee, and thou shalt have cause to say, Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong: Remember that great word, Phil. 4: 13. I can do all things, through Christ, which strengtheneth me.  
It hath been the usual and ordinary question of Believers; How shall we make use of Christ for Sanctification. To this great and important question; I, (though the meanest and most unfit for such a work, of all that God hath sent to feed his flock) have adventured or endeavoured, at least, to give such as truly desire to cleanse themselves from all filthiness of the flesh and Spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God, some satisfation herein, laying before them, some plain directions, framed to their capacities, and suited to some of their most ordinary and usual cases; some whereof are more comprehensive; & others, more particular, may be looked upon as exemplary instances, serving for other cases of the like nature; for hardly could every particular circumstan●…iat case be particularly spoken to, and some might judge that to be superfluous. If thou, in the light & strength of Christ, shalt really practise what is here pointed forth, I may be confident to say, thy labour shall not be in vain in the Lord, & thou shalt attain to another sort of holiness▪ than that, which Proud pretenders boast of; & shalt be far without the reach of that snare, which unstable souls are too readily entangled with. I mean, the plausible pretention of more than ordinary sanctity, which yet is but forced, feigned, constrained, mostly external, & framed to cause some admiration in beholders, whom they intent to make a prey of. This shall be no temptation to thee, who by experience findeth a more saife, satisfying, full, free, easy, pleasant & heartsome way of mortifying lusts, growing in grace▪ & in the knowledge of Jesus Christ▪ & so perfecting holiness▪ by running immediately to Christ, & by living in & upon Him, who is mad of God to us, Wisdom, Righteousness, Sanctification & Redemption. That the Lord may bless the same to thee, for this end▪ shall ●…e and is the desire and prayer of Him, who is thy servant, in the work of the Gospel.  
I. B.   

CHRIST, The Way, the Truth, & the Life. Or A discovery of the right way of making use of Christ, for Sanctification:  From JOHN. XIV. 6. jesus sayeth unto them, I am the Way, & the Truth▪ & the Life; No man cometh unto the Father but by Me. 

CHAP. I. The introduction, with some general observations from the cohesion.  
Doubtless it is always useful, yea necessary, for the children of God, to know the right way of making use of Christ, who is made all things to them which they need, even Wisdom, Righteousness, Sanctification, and Redemption▪ 1 Cor. 1: 30. But it is never more necessary for believers to be clear & distinct in this matter▪ than when Satan by all means is seeking to pervert the right ways of the Lord; and one way or other to lead souls away, and draw them of Christ; knowing that if he prevail here, he hath gained his point: and therefore he endeavoureth not only to darken it by error, either more gross, or more subtle; but also to darken it by mistakes, and prejudices; whence it cometh to pass, that not only Strangers are made to wander out of the way, but oftentimes many of his own people are walking in the darkness of ignorance and mistakes, and remain lean through want of the real exercise of the Life of faith, which would make them fat & flourishing; because it would make them strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might, and to grow up in Christ in all things.  
The clearing up then of this truth cannot but be most seasonable now, when Satan is prevailing with many, whom he cannot get tempted to looseness and profanity, to sit down upon some thing, which is not Christ; and to rest upon something within themselves, distinct from him, both in the matter of justification, and Sanctification. This subtle Adversary is now setting some a work, to cry up, by preaching, speaking and printing, a way to heaven, which is not Christ, a kind of morality, civility and outward holiness, whereupon the soul is to rest: and this holiness, not wrought and effectuated through the strength of jesus, by faith sucking life and furniture from him; but through our own art and skill; which in effect is nothing but an extract of refined Popery, Socinianism, and Arminianism, devised and broached of purpose, to draw the soul off Christ; that he may stand upon his own legs, and walk by his own power, and thank himself, at least in part, for the crown, at length.  
Further, through the great goodness of God, the true way of a soul's justification is admirably cleared up; and many are, at least theoretically, acquanted therewith; and many also practically, to the quieting of their wakened consciences, and stopping the mouth of their accusers, and obteaning of peace, joy, and the lively hope of the everlasting crown: yet many a gracious soul profess their unacquantednesse with the solid and thriveing way of usemaking of Christ for growth in grace and true Sanctification. Therefore some discovery of the truth here cannot but be useful, seasonable, yea and acceptable unto them: If He, who is the Truth, would give grace to understand, and to unfold this so necessary and always advantageous a Truth; and would help to write of and explain this Truth, by faith in him, who is here said to be the Truth; then should we have cause to bless and magnify his name: But if he▪ because of sin, shall hide himself, and not let out those beams of light, whereby we might discover light, we shall but darken counsel with words without knowledge, and leave the matter as uncleare, as ever. Therefore is it necessary, there be both in him that writeth, and in such as read a single dependence on him, who is given for a leader, Esa. 55: 5. and hath promised to bring the blind by a way, which they knew not, and to lead them in paths that they had not known, and to make darkness, light before them, and crooked things straight▪ Esa. 42: 16. that thus by acting faith on him, we may find, in so far, the truth of this verified, viz. That he is the Way the Truth, and the Life.  
Now for clearing up of this matter, we would know, That our Lord jesus, from the beginning of this Chapter is laying down some grounds of consolation, sufficient to comfort his Disciples, against the sad news of his departure and death; and to encourage them against the fears they had of much evil to befall them, when their Lord & Master should be taken from them▪ Which is a sufficient proof of the tender heart of jesus▪ who alloweth all his followers strong consolation, against all▪ fears, hazards▪ troubles and perplexities, which they can meet with in their way. He will not leave them comfortless; and therefore he layeth down strong grounds of consolation, to support their drooping and fainting hearts; as loving to see his followers rejoicing always in the Lord, and Singing in the ways of Zion; that the world may see, and be convinced of a reality in Christianity, and of the preferablenesse of that life, notwithstanding of all the troubles that attend it, unto any other, how sweet and desirable so ever it may appear to flesh and blood.  
In prosecution of which design, he told them vers. 4. that they knew wh●…ther He went, and the way also▪ which he was to take, and by which he was to bring them to the Father to the mansions spoken of, and so to life eternal. But Thomas rashly and incredulously (as too usually he did Chap. 11: 16. and 20: 25) venteth himself, and little less than contradicteth his Master, saying vers. 5▪ We know not whither thou goest, and how can we know the way? wherein we have an emblem of many a believer, who may have more grace and knowledge of God and of Christ, than they will be able to see, or acknowledge that they have, what through temptations; inward distempers; sense of their many defects and great ignorance; strong desires of high measures; clearer discoveries of the vastness of the object; mistakes about the true nature of grace, despiseing the day of small things; and indistinctnesse as to the actings of grace, or want of understanding and right uptaking of grace, in its various out goings, and actings under various notions, and the like▪  
Whereupon Christ, after his usual manner, taketh occasion to clear up that ground of consolation further unto them; and to let them see the true way of coming to the Father, that thereby they night be helped to see, that they were not such strangers unto the way, as they supposed; and withal he amplifieth; and layeth out the properties and excellencies of this way, as being the true and living way, and the only true and living way; and that in such a manner, as they might both see the way to be perfect, full, saife, saving and satisfying; and also learn their duty, of improving this way always, and in all things, until they came home at length to the Father: saying I am the Way, the Truth and the Life: no man cometh to the Father but by me.  
Christ then, saying, that He not only is the Way to the Father, even the true way; but that he is so the true way, as that he is also Truth itself▪ in the abstract, and so the Living way, that he i●… Life itself, in the abstract, g●…eth us ground to consider, after what manner it is, that He is the Truth, and the Life, as well as the Way; and that for the clearing up and discovering of His being an absolutely perfect, transcendently excellent, incomparably preferable, and fully satisfying way, useful to believers in all cases, all exigents, all distresses, all difficulties, all trials, all temptations, all doubts, all perplexities; & in all causes or occasions of distempers, fears, faintings, discouragements etc. which they may meet with in their way to heaven. And this will lead us to clear up the duty of believers, on the other hand, and to show how they should, in all their various cases and difficulties, make use of Christ, as the only alsufficient Way to the Father, and as Truth and Life in the way, and so we will be led to speak of Christ's being to his people all that is requisite for them here in the way, whether for justification or sanctification, and how people are to make use of him, as being all, or as being made of God to us Wisdom, Righteousness, Sanctification and Redemption. 1. Cor. 1: 30.  
Ere we come to the words in particular, we would look upon them, as having relation to Thomas his words, in the preceding verse. wherein he did little less, then contradict what Christ had said in the 4 vers. and learn several very comfortable points of doctrine, as.  

First.  
THat jesus Christ is very tender of his followers, and will not cast them off, nor upbraid them for every escape, whereby they may provock him to anger and grieve his Spirit; but gently passeth by many of their faileings, when he findeth they are not obstinate in their mistake, nor perverse in their way: for how gently and meekly doth He here pass over Thomas his unhandsome expression, finding that Thomas spoke here, not out of obstinacy and pertinaciousness, but out of ignorance and a mistake. And the reason is because 1 Christ knoweth our infirmity and weakness, and is of a tender heart, and therefore Will not break the bruised reed. Esa. 42. Well knoweth He, that rough and untender handling would crush us, and break us all in pieces. And 2. He is full of bowels of mercy, and can have compassion on them that are out of the way and can be touched with the feeling of our infirmities. Heb. 4: 15. & 5: 2.  
Which truth, as, upon the one hand, it should encourage all to choose him for their leader, & give up themselves to Him, who is so tender of his followers; so, upon the other hand, it should rebuke such as are ready to entertain evil and hard thoughts of Him, as if he were an hard Master, and ill to be followed: and put all from interteaning the least thought of his untenderness, and want of compassion. But moreover.   

Secondly.  
WE see, That weaknesses and corruptions breaking out in believers, when they are honestly and ingenuously laid open before the Lord, will not scare Him away: But rather engage Him the more to help and succour. Much of Thomas his weakness and corruption appeared in what he said: yet the same being honestly and ingenuously laid open to Christ, not out of a spirit of contradiction, but out of a desire to learn, Christ is so far from thrusting him away, that He rather condescendeth the more, out of love and tenderness, to instruct him better, and to clear the way more fully. And that because 1. He knoweth our mould and fashion, how fecklesse and frail we are, and that if he should deal with us according to our folly, we should quickly be destroyed. 2. He is not as Man, hasty, rash, Proud; but gentle, loving, tender and full of compassion. 2. It is his office and proper work to be an instructor to the ignorant, and a helper of our infirmities and weaknesses, a physician to bind up and cure our sores & wounds.  
Who would not then willingly give up themselves to such a teacher, that will not thrust them to the door, nor give them up to themselves, always when their corruptions would provoke Him thereunto? And what a madness is this in many, to stand aback from Christ, because of their infirmities; and to scar at Him, because of their weakness, when the more corruption we find the more should we run to him? and it is soon enough to depart from Christ, when he thrusts us away; & sayeth, he will have no more to do with us: yea he will allow us to stay, after we are, as it were, thrice thrust away: only let us take heed, that we approve not ourselves in our evils, that we hide them not, as unwilling to part with them, that we obstinately maintain them not, nor ourselves in them: but that we lie open before him, and deal with him, with honesty, ingenuity and plainness.   

Thirdly.  
WE see further, That ignorance ingenuously acknowledged and laid open before Christ puts the soul in a fair way to get more instruction. Thomas having candidely, according as he thought, in the simplicity of his heart, professed his ignorance, is in a fair way now to get instruction: for this is Christ's work to instruct the ignorant, to open the eyes of the blind.  
Why then are we so foolish, as to conceal our ignorance from him, and to hide our case and condition from him: and why doth not this commend Christ's School to us so much the more? why do we not carry as ingenuous scholars, really desireous to learn●…? But.   

Fourthly.  
WE may learn. That our ill condition, and distempers put into Christ's hand will have remarkable ou●…gates, and an advantageous issue; seeing Christ taketh occasion here from Thomas his laying open his condition, not without some mixture of corruption, to clear up the truth, more fully and plainly, than it was before: for hereby 1. Christ giveth an open declaration of the glory of his power, mercy, goodness, wisdom etc. 2. He hath occasion to give a proof of his divine art, and glorious skill of healing diseased souls, and of making brocken bones stronger than ever they were 3. Thus he effectually accomplisheth his noble designs, and perfecteth his work, in a way tending to abase Man, by discovering his infirmities, and failings; and to glorify Himself in his goodness and love. 4 Thus he triumpheth more over Satan, and in a more remarkable and glorious manner destroyeth his works. 5. Thus he declareth how wonderfully he can make all things work together for good to his chosen ones, that love him, and follow him. 6 Yea thus he engadgeth souls to wonder more at his divine wisdom and power; to despair less in time coming, when cases would seem hard; to acknowledge his great and wonderful grace, and his infinite power and wisdom, that can bring death out of life; and also to be more sensible of the mercy, and thankful for it.  
O believer; what matter of joy is here? how happy art thou, that hath given up thyself to him! Thy worst condition can turn to thy advantage. He can make thy ignorance, vented with a mixture of corruption, turn to the increase of thy knowledge. Bless him for this; and with joy and satisfaction, abide thou under his tutory & at his school. And withal be not discouraged▪ be thy ●…ase of ignorance and corruption what it will▪ lay it out before him with sincerity and singleness of heart, and then thou mayest glory in thine infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest on thee 2 Cor. 12: 9 for thou shalt see, in due time, what advantage infinite love and wisdom can bring to thy soul thereby.  
May not this be a strong motive to induce strangers to give up themselves to him, who will sweetly take occasion at their failings, and short comeings, to help them forward in the way? and what excuse can they have, who sit the call of the gospel, and say in effect they will not go to Christ because their case is not good. And oh that believers were not sometimes led away with this error of scarring at Christ, because of Infirmities seen and discovered!   

Fiftly.  
IT is remarkable, that, as the disciples did ofttimes vent much of their carnal conceptions of the kingdom of Christ, as apprehending it to be some carnal, outward, pompous, stately, and, upon that account, desirable condition; so there might be much of this carnal apprehension, lurking under this acknowledgement and question of Thomas: And the Lord, who knew their thoughts, doth here wisely draw them off those notions▪ and 〈◊〉 them about another study: To tell us, That it is ●…est and most useful and profitable for us, to be much taken up in the study & sear●… of necessary and fundamental truths and particularly, of the way to the father, for 1. Here is the substantial food of the soul: other notions are but vain, and oftentimes they make the case of the soul worse; but the study of this is always edifying. 2 The right understanding of this, & other fundamental truths, will not puff up, but keep the soul humble, and will make the soul active and diligent in duty. 3 The fruit of this study is profitable, and lasting. 4 And the right uptaking of these truths will discover the vanity of other sciences, falsely so called, and the folly of spending our time about other things. 5 The right understanding of this fundamental▪ will help us to understand other truths the better. 6 A mistake in this and such like fundamentals, or the ignorance of them, is more dangerous, than the ignorance of or a mistake in other things.  
Oh if this were teaching us all, in humility, to be much in the study of such fundamental necessary truths, as this is: and to guaird against a piece of vanity in affecting knowledge, the effect of which, is nothing but a puffing of u●… up with pride & conceit.   

Sixtly.  
WE may here take notice of what may serve to discover Thomas his mistake, and what is the ground of Christ's assertion vers. 4. which Thomas doth little less than contradict verse 5. viz. That such as had any acquaintance with Christ, did, according to the measure of their knowledge of him, both know heaven, and the way to it, whence we see those truths.  
1 Persons may have some real acquaintance with Christ, and yet be, for a time, very indistinct in their notions about him, and apprehensions of him: They may know Christ, in some measure; and yet look upon themselves as great strangers to the knowledge of heaven, and be oft complaineing of their ignorance of the right way to heaven.  
2. Where there is the least measure of true acquaintance with Christ, with love to him, and a desire to know more of him, Christ will take notice thereof, though it be covered over with a heap of mistakes, and accompanied with much ignorance, weakness, and indistinctnesse. He seeth not as man seeth: which is good news to some, that are weak in knowledge, and unable to give any good account of any knowledge they have, yet one thing they can say, That he who knoweth all things, knoweth that they love him.  
3. Various are the dispensations of God's grace unto his own: to some he giveth a greater, to others a lesser measure of knowledge of the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven; And to one & the same person, more at one time than at another: Various are his manifestations and outletings of grace and love. Small beginnings may come to much at length. Thomas, and the rest of the disciples, had but little clear and distinct apprehensions of the way of Salvation through jesus Christ▪ and yet ere all was done, they attained to such a measure of understanding in the mysteries of God, as that we are said to be built upon the foundation of the Apostles; Christ jesus being the chief corn●…r stone Ephes. 2: 20. This should teach the best much sobriety, and not to judge of all by themselves; or to think, that God's way with them must be a standard or a rule, whereby to judge of all the rest▪ as if his way of dealing were one and the same with all.  
4 The knowledge of Christ is all; know him and we know heaven, and the way to it: for upon this ground doth Christ make good, what he had said, touching their knowing whither he went, & the way: and answereth the objection that Thomas did propose, viz, Because he was the way &c and they being acquaint with him (which here is presupposed) were not ignorant of the place, whither he was going; nor of the way leading thither. The knowledge then of jesus Christ is a true and full compend of all saveing knowledge. Hence It is life eternal to know him joh. 17: 3. They that know him, know the Father joh. 14: 9 & 8: 19 They that see him▪ see the Father also john. 14: 9 He is in the Father, and the Father in him, john. 14: 10, 11▪ & 10: 38. & 17. 21. And so knowing him, they know heaven: for what is heaven else▪ but the presence, and glorious manifestations of the Father: for when Christ speaks of his going to heaven, he sayeth, he was going to the Father. So knowing him, they knew the way, both how Christ was to go to heaven, as our Cautioner, Head & Atturnay; and how we must follow.  
Let then a Man have never so much knowledge, & be acquanted with the mysteries of all arts & sciences: & with the deepths of nature, and intrigues of States, and all the theory of Religion; if he be unacquanted with jesus Christ, he knoweth nothing as he ought to know.  
And upon the other hand, let a poor soul, that is honest, and hath some knowledge of and acquaintance with him, be satisfied, though it cannot discourse, nor dispute, nor speak to cases of consciences, as some others. If we know him, it matters not, though we be ignorant of many things, and thereby become less esteemed of by others. Here is the true teste, by which we may take a right ●…stimate of our own or of others knowledge: The true rule to try knowledge by, is not fine notions, clear and distinct expressions: but heart acquaintance with him, in whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge Col. 2: 3.  
O sad! that we are not more taken up in this study, which would be a compendious way for us to know all? Why spend we our money for that which is not bread, and our labour for that which will not profit us? Why waste we our time and spirits, in learning this science, and that art, when alas, after we, with much labour and toil, have attained to the youdmost pitch there, we are never one white the nearer heaven and happiness? yea it were well, if we were not further off? Oh! if we were wise at length, and could think more on this one thing necessary▪ and could be stirred up to lear●…e more of him, and to make this the subject of all our study, and labour▪    

CHAP. TWO Of the words themselves in general.  
WE come now to the words themselves; wherein Christ asserts that, He is ●…1) the Way (2) the Truth, (3) the Life. & (4) That no man cometh to the Father but by him.  
In them we learn those two things, in general▪ first The misery of wretched man by nature: This c●…nnot be in a f●…w words expressed▪ These words will point out those particulars thereof, which we will but mention.  
1. That he is borne an enemy to, and living at a distance from God, by virtue of the curse of the bro●…ken covenant of life, made with Adam.  
2. That he neither can, nor will return to God, of himself. His way is not in himself; He hath need of another to be his way.  
3. That he is a blind wandering creature, ready to take by ways and to wander; yea he loveth to wander: He goeth astray as soon as he is borne, speaking lies.  
4▪ He cannot discern the true way; but is blinded with prejudice thereat, and full of mistakes, he is nothing but a lump of error.  
5: He is dead legally, and really, how can he then come home? How can he walk in the way, though it were pointed out to him?  
6. He, even when entered into the way, is subject to so many faintings, swoonings, upsittings etc. that except he get new quickening, he must lie be the way, and perish.  
In a word▪ his misery is such as cannot be expressed; for as little as it is believed, and laid to heart; or seen and mourned for, and ●…amented.  
Now fo●… a ground to our following discourse, I would pr●…sse the solid, through, and sensible apprehension of this, without which there will be no usemaking or application of Christ: for the whole need not the phy●…itian, but the sick: and Christ is not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance. Mat. 9: 12. Marc. 2: 17. Yea, believers themselves would live within the sight of this, and not forget their frailty: for though there be a change wrought in them, yet they are not perfect, but will have need of Christ as the Way, the Truth and the Life, till he bring them in, and set them down upon the throne, and crown them with the crown of life. And O happy they, who must not walk one foot without this guide, leading them by the hand, or rather carrying them in his arms. Let all then, who would make use of Christ, remember what they were, and what they are, and keep the sense of their frailty and misery fresh; that seeing their need of him, they may be in better case to look out to him for help and supply, and be more distinct in their application of him.  
The Second general is, That Christ is a complete Mediator, throughly furnished for all our necessities: Are we at a distance from the Father: He is a Way to bring us together. Are we wandered out of the way: He is the Way to us. Are we blind and ignorant: He is the Truth▪ Are we dead: He is the Li●…e: Cuncearning this fullness & completeness of his, we would mark those things.  
1. That he is throughly fu●…nished with all things we stand in need of: the Way, the T●…uth and the Life▪ He hath eye salve, cloothing, gold tried in the fire, etc. For the Spirit of the Lord is upon him, and hath anointed him. Esa. 61: 1.  
2. He is suitably qualified, not only having a fullness, and an all fullness, so that whatever we need, is to be had in him; but also a suitable fullness answering our case to the life: are we out of the way. He is the Way, are we dead, he is Life etc.  
3. He is richly qualified with this suitable good. He hath not only wisdom and knowl●…dge, but treasures of it, yea all the treasures thereof Col 2: 3. There is fullness in him, yea it hath pleased the father that in him should all fullness dwell. Col. 1: 19 Yea the fullness of the godhead dwelleth in him bodily. Col. 2. 9  
4. Hence this is an upmaking completeness & fullness: for we are said to be Complete in him Col. 2: 10. And he is said to be all and in all Col. 4: 11▪ He fill●…th all in all. Ephes. 1. 23.  
5. It is also a satisfying completeness. The eye▪ is not satisfied with seeing, nor the ear with hea ring, the avaricious man is not satisfied with gold, nor the ambitious man w●…th ho●…our: but still they are crying with the loch-leech give, give. But the man who getteth Christ is full; he sitteth down and cryeth, enough, enough▪ and no wonder, for he hath all. He can desire no more, he can seek no more, for what can the man▪ want, that is compleet in him?  
6 There is here that, which will answer all the objections of a soul, and these sometimes are not few. If they say, they cannot know the way to the Father; then he is Truth, to instruct and teach them that, and so to enter them into it: and if they say, they cannot walk in that way, nor advance in it one step, but will faint and sit up, succumb and fall by; he answereth that. He is the Life, to put life, and keep life in them, and to cause them to walk, by putting a new principle of life in them, and breathing of new on that Principle.  
O thrice happy they who have fled to him for refuge! It is easy for them, to answer all objections, and ●…avils of Satan, and of a false heart; It is easy for them, to put Christ to answer all. And on the other hand, who can tell the misery of such, as are strangers to jesus? How shall their wants be made up? how shall they answer challenges, accusations, temptations, doubts, fears, objections, and discouragements ●…ast up in their way?  
O! should not this endear the way of the gospel to us, & make Christ precious unto us? Is it not a wonder that such an alsufficient Mediator, who is able to save to the uttermost all that come to God through him, should be so little regairded and sought unto, and that there should be so few, that embrace him, and take him, as he is offered in the gospel?  
How can this be answered, in the day of accounts? what excuse can unbelievers now have? Is not all to be found in Christ that their case calleth for? Is he not a complete mediator, thoroughly furnished with all necessaries? Is not the riches of his fullness written on all his dispensations? The mouths then of unbelievers must be for ever stopped.   

CHAP. III. How Christ is the way, in General. I am the way.  
WE come now to speak more particularly to the words; and first of his being a Way. Our design being to point at the way of use making of Christ, in all our necessities, straits and difficultyes, which are in our way to heaven: and particularly to point out the way, how believers should make use of Christ▪ in all their particular exigences; and so live by faith in him, walk in him, grow up in him, advance & march forward toward glory in him. It will not be amiss to speak of this fullness of Christ in reference to unbelievers, as occasion offereth, because this will help to clear the other.  
Before we can clear up, how any can make use of Christ, we must speak some thing of their necessity of him, and of his being furnished fitly, fully, richly & satisfylngly for their case; and this will make the way of use making of Christ more plain.  
While Christ then says I am the Way, he points out those things to us.  
first. That man is now estranged from the Lord, and in a wandering condition: He hath departed, from God; he is revolted and gone. They are all gone out of the way. Rom. 3▪ 12. They go astray, as soon as they are borne, speaking lies. Psal. 58: 3. Nay not only so, but we ●…ove naturally to wander, and to run away from God▪ as jeremiah compleaneth of that wicked people Ier 14: 10. Naturally, with the dromedary, we traverse our ways. jer. 2. 23. and run hither and thither, but never look towards him. Nay we are like those spoken of job. 21: 14. We desire not the knowledge of his ways we will have none of him Psal. 81: 11. Nor of his reproofs Prov. 1: 30.  
Oh how sad is this? And yet how is it more sad, that this is not believed, nor once considered. And that it is not believed, is manifest, for,  
1. How rare is it to meet with persons, that are not very well pleased and satisfied with themselves and their condition? They thank the Lord, it was ay well with them. They have no complaints. They see no wants, nor necessities. They wonder what makes folk complain of their condition, of their evil heart, or of their hazard and danger. They understand not these matters.  
2. Do we not find people very quiet and at rest, though they remain in the congregation of the dead P●…ov. 21: 16. They sleep in a sound skin, because they see no hazard. The thoughts of their condition never bereave them of one night's rest: no challenges have they; all is at peace with them, for the strong man keeps the house.  
3. How rare is it, to find people exercised about this matter, and busied with it in their thoughts, either while alone, or while in company with others; or once seriously thinking and considering of it, yea or so much as suspecting the matter?  
4 How rare is it to see any soul brocken in heart, and humbled because of this? who is walking under this as under a load? whose soul is bleeding upon the consideration of this? Is there any mourning for this?  
5 Where is that to be heard, Men and brethren, what shall we do to be saved? How shall we enter into the right way? where is that good old way, that we may walk in it? Few such questions and cases troubling consciences: and no wonder; for a deep sleep is upon them.  
6. How cometh it then, that the pointing forth of the way is so little harkened unto; Sure, were this natural condition perceived, a report of the sure and saise way, would be much more welcome, than it is. Christ by his Messengers would not be put to cry so often in vain. This is the way, turn in hither.  
Here is enough to convince of this ignorance, and in sensibleness: but it is his Spirit, which convinceth the world of sin, john. 16. that must bear home this conviction.  
Secondly. It pointeth out to us this, That the way of man is not in himself jer. 10: 23. That is, That nothing he can do, can or will prove a way to him to the Father: for Christ is the Way, as excludeing all other means and ways. And that man can do nothing to help himself into the way is clear, for,  
1. His way is▪ is as darkness Prov. 4: 14. He knoweth no better, he is satisfied therewith, there he sleepeth and resteth.  
2. He cannot, nor doth not desire to return▪ He hateth to be reform.  
3. Yea, he thinketh himself saise; no man can convince him of the contrary, The way he is in seemeth right to him, though the end thereof be death, Prov. 14: 12. & 16: 25.  
4. Every man hath his own particular way, to which he turneth Esa. 53: 6. some one thing or other, that he is pleased with, and that he thinks will abundantly carry him through, and there resteth he: and what these ordinarily are, we shall hear presently.  
5. In this his way, which yet is a false way, he trusteth Host 10: 13. he leaneth upon it, little knowing that it will fail him at length, and that he and his hope and confidence shall perish.  
Is it not strange then to see men and women gaudeing about to seek their way, as it is said, Ier▪ 2: 36. as if they could find it out; or as if they could of themselves fall upon the way. What a lamentable sight is it, to see people, wearying themselves with very lies, Ezech. 24: 12▪ and wearied in the multitude of their own counsels, Esa. 47: 15.  
But what are those false and lying ways, which men weary themselves in, and all in vain, & which they choose & trust into, and yet are not the way, which will prove sa●… and sure?  
Answer. It will not be easy to reckon them all up, we shall name some, that are principal, and most ordinary: such as,  
1. Good purposes and resolutions, with which many deceive themselves, supposeing that to be all, which is required: and alas all their purposes are like to Ephraim's goodness, like the early cloud and morning dew, that soon evanisheth: their purposes are soon brocken off, and soon disappointed, because made without counsel, Prov. 15: 22. Many foolishly rest here, that they have a good mind to do better, and to amend their ways, and they purpose after such a time or such a time, they shall begin a new manner of life; but their purposes never come to any effect, and foe at length they and their purposes both perish.  
2. Some convictions and inward challenges. The word now and then p●…erceth them so far; and ●…ore and sharp dispensations from the Lord so far affect their heart, that they see it is not well with them, and they are made with Saul to cry out, I have sinned 1 Sam. 15: 24. and they advance no further, those convictions either die out again, or work no further change: And poor souls they think because at such a sermon or such a Communion, they had some such convictions and sharp challenges, therefore they imagine all is well with them▪ when a judas may have convictions, sharper than ever they had. & a Felix Act. 24: 25.  
3. Convictions followed with some sort of amendment. Some may dreadfully deceive themselves with this, and conclude that all is right with them, and that the way they are in is saife & sure: because they have had convictions, which have been so effectual, as to cause them amend many things, and become, as to many things, changed men & women, when alas their way is but a way of darkness. still; it is not Christ, they have never, come to him. Herod hearing john Baptist had his own convictions and amendments: for he did many things, Mark. 6: 20.  
4. Many rest upon their outward civility & morality, or negative holiness. They cannot be challenged for gross faults, and that is all the way they have to rest in: alas, could not a wicked Pharise●… say, as much as they, viz That he was no extortioner, unjust person, nor an adulterer, nor such as the publican was, Luk. 18: 11? How many heathens, as to this, shall outstripe such as profess themselves Christians? and yet they lived and died strangers to the right way to happiness. See what that poor young man said Luk. 18: 21.  
5. Some may win to more than civility, and attain unto a kind of outward holiness, and outward performance of the duties of religion, such as hearing, reading, prayer, communicating; and rest there, and yet perish: for that is but their own way; it is not the right way. Had not the foolish virgin's lamps? and did they not wait with the rest Matt. 25? and will not many say in that day, we have eaten and drunken in thy presence, and thou hast taught in our streets, to whom Christ shall answer, I know not whence you are, depart from me, all ye workers of iniquity▪ Luk. 13: 26, 27? were not the jews much in duties & outward ordinances? and yet see how the Lord rejecteth them all, Esa. 1: 11, 12, 13▪ 14, 15▪ & 66: 3.  
6. Much knowledge doth deceive many. They think because they can talk of religion, speak to cases of consciences, handle places of scripture, and the like, that therefore all is right with them: when alas that is but a slippery ground to stand upon. The Phari●…ees sat in Moses seat, & taught sometimes sound doctrine: and yet were heart enemies to Jesus, Mat. 23. And will not many, think to plead themselves in to heaven. By saying, that they have Prophesied in his name, Mat. 7: 22? There is a knowledge that puffeth up 1 Cor. 13: 2▪ Some there are, whose knowledge seemeth to be operative and practical, and not merely speculative. Some may escape the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord & Saviour jesus Christ, and yet again become entangled therein & overcome, so that their latter end is worse than the beginning, See 2 Pet. 2 20, 21, 22. knowledge, I grant, is good, but it is not Christ; and so it is not the way to the Father: and many, alas lean to it, & are deceived, at last.  
7. A kind of seeming seriousness in the performance of duties, and in seeking of God, deceiveth many. They think because they are not conscious to their own dissembling, but they look upon themselves as earnest in what they do, that therefore all is well. Sayeth not Christ, that not every 〈◊〉 that sayeth Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of God. Mat. 7: 21? that is, not every one that reneweth their suits, & ingeminateth their desires, cry and cry over again, and as it were, will not give it over. And yet they come short of their expectation: did not the foolish virgins seem earnest and serious, when they continued waiting with the rest, and at length, cried Lord, Lord open unto us; and yet they were keeped at the door▪ Many consider not that there is a secret and close hypocrisy, that some may be under and not know it, as well as a gross hypocrisy, and dissimulation, which may be easily observed: Will not many seek to enter in, that shall not be able? Mat. 7: 13. Luk. 13. 24.  
8. Many may deceive themselves with this, that they are looked on by others godly discerning persons & ministers, as good serious Christians, and that they carry so handsomely and fair, that no man can judge otherways of them, than that they are good serious seekers of God. But alas the day is coming, which will discover many things: and many one will be deceived both of themselves & of others. Not he who commendeth himself is approved; but whom God approveth. 2 Cor. 10: 18. Therefore Paul exhorts Timothy to study to show himself approved unto God, 2 Tim. 2: 15. Men look only on the outside, and cannot see in to the heart▪ but God searcheth the heart: and it is an easy matter to deceive Men: But God will not be deceived.  
9 Some may suppose themselves in a saife and sure way, if they out stripe others in religious duties, and be much in extraordinary duties, when alas, for all that, the heart may be rotten. The Pharisee fasted twice a week. Luk. 18: 12. and yet was but an enemy to Christ. O how deceitful is the heart of Man!  
10. Inward peace and quietness of conscience▪ may deceive some: and they may suppose that ●…ll is right with them, because they do nothing over the belly of their conscience. Their heart doth not accuse them of falsehood and dissimulation in their way with God or Man; but they do all things according to their light. No doubt that young Man, Luk. 18: 21. spoke according to his judgement, and light, when he said, all these things have I observed from my youth. And Paul sayeth of himself▪ Act. 23: 1. that he had lived in all good conscience before God till that very day. Meaning, that even while he was a Pharisee unconverted, he had not thortured his conscience, nor done any thing directly against it, but had always walked according to his light. See Act. 26: 9  
11. A way of Zeal may deceive many; who may think their case unquestionable, because they are Zealous for their way: and as they think their Zeal is pure zeal for God: was not Paul, while a Pharisee, very Zealous, when out of zeal to his way he persecuted▪ the Church? Phil. 3: 6. See my zeal for the Lord, could a I●…hu. say, 2. King. 10: 16. and the jews had a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge, Rom. 10: 2. and Christ tells us, that such as should persecute the Apostles unto death, wouldthink they did God good service john. 16: 2.  
12. Some also may put it beyond question, that they are in the right way, because, they are more strike in all their ways, than others, and will not so much as keep fellowship or company with them, saying, with those Esa. 65: 5. Stand by, I am holier▪ than thou, come not near to me, who yet are but a smoke in God's nose, & a fire that burneth all the day.  
13. Some may rest on, and deceive themselves with their great attainments, and more than ordinary experiences. When alas! we see to what a hieght some may come, and yet prove nothing▪ Let such souls read with trembling that word of Paul Heb. 6: 4, 5. where we see some may come to be enlightened, to taste of the heavenly gift, to be made partakers of the holy ghost, to taste the good word of God, & the powers of the world to come▪ and yet prove castaways: taking these expressions as pointing forth some thing distinct from real grace.  
Many such false ways, wherein Men please themselves, might be mentioned: By these every one may see cause of Searching & trying, over & over again. It is a dreadful thing to be deceived here; and it is best to put it to a trial, when there is a possibility of getting the matter helped: and many may fear and tremble, when they see, they are not yet come the length of many such, as sit down without Christ, and lose all their labour. O▪ if this could put people to a serious examination & trial of themselves, and of the nature of that way, wherein they are & rest at present!  
Thirdly We might here observe. That this true & living way is but one for all. There is but one Mediator betwixt God & Man, 1 Tim. 2: 5. One Mediator for both old & new Testament: the Seed of the woman: Howbeit the Lords dispensations with his people, in that one way, may be various; as his way with his people under the Law is different from his way with his people under the gospel; and his dispensations with individual believers, whether under the law, or under the gospel, is not the same in all things.  
And this should teach us to relinquish our own ways, and to enter into this one only way: and it should move such as are in this way, to study unity and agreement among themselves; and yet not infer or suppose that God's way with them must be in all things alike. Yea, though the Lords way with them be different from his way with others, & more dark, disconsolate, and bitter; yet let them be quiet and silent before the Lord, and acknowledge his goodness, that hath brought them into the one only way▪ jesus Christ, and keepeth them there.  
But fourthly, the main thing here, and which is obvious, is this, That jesus Christ is the Way to the Father▪ the one and only way, the sovereign and excellent way: and he alone is this way. There is not another. Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved, Act. 4: 12.  
For clearing of this, we shall speak a little to those four things, and show  

1. What is our case, and what need we have of a way.  
2. How Christ answereth this our case & necessity, and is a fit way for us.  
3. How he alone is this way, and answereth this our case.  
4. What are the rare advantages & specialties of this way.   
And this will make way for our clearing up▪ how Christ is made use of as a way by poor sinners.  
For the first of these, our present case & necessity, something was spoken to it before: we shall reduce all to those two heads. The first is our state of guilt, and separation from God because of sin & guilt. The next is our state of wickedness and enmity against God.  
As to the first, we may take notice of those things.  
1. That sin original and actual hath separated us from God, and cast us out of his favour, and out of that station of favour & friendship, which once we were advanced to, in Adam.  
2. That we are under God's curse & wrath, and excommunicated from the presence of the Lord, by a sad, yet just, sentence, according to law, and so are under death.  
As to the next thing, we may take notice of those particulars  
1. That we are impure and polluted with sin, and daily iniquity.  
2. That we are ignorant of the right way of returning into favour with God, seeking out to ourselves many inventions.  
3. That we are impotent for any good work or commanded duty.  
4. That not only so, but we are unwilling to do any thing that is good, or to enter into the way, when pointed out unto us; ye●… we are enemies to God by wicked works, & have an innate hatred to all his ways.  
5. We desire not to be out of the condition whereinto we are: there we love to lie and sleep, and desire not to be roused up or awakened.  
6. We are under the power & command of Satan, who leadeth us out of the way, yea & driveth us forward in the wrong way to our per●…tion.  
These things are plain & undeniable, and need no further confirmation, though alas! it is little believed & laid to heart by many.  
For the second, How Christ answereth this our ●…ase and necessity. He is a way to us, to help us out of both these, both out of our state of guilt, and separation; and out of our state of wickedness, & enmity.  
And first he helpeth us out of our state of guilt & separation.  
1. By Taking away our guilt & sin, being made sin for us, who knew no sin, that we might be made the righteousness of God in him 2 Cor. 5: 21. He hath filled up the great gap betwixt God & us, with his body, and hath made of it, as it were, a bridge, by which we may go over unto the Father: we enter now into the holiest by the blood of jesus, by a new & living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the vail, that is to say, his flesh, Heb. 10: 19, 20. we are now brought near by his blood, Ephes. 2: 13. So that through him we are restored again to friendship with God, & made one with him: for Christ the Mediator hath made both one, reconcileing jews & Gentiles both unto God, in one body, by the cross, having slain the enmity, Ephes. 2: 16.  
2. By taking way the curse & wrath, that was ●…ue to us, being made a curse for us, Gal. 3: 13. So that he is become our peace, and through him, we have an access by one Spirit unto the Father, and are no more strangers & foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints, and of the household of God, Ephes. 2: 14, 18, 19 He is set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, Rom. 3: 25, 1 john. 2: 2. & 4: 10. by him have we now received atonement Rom. 5: 11.  
Next, He helpeth us out of our state of wickedness & enmity.  
1. By taking away our impurity and uncleanness, by washing us & cleansing us in his blood Ephes. 5: 26. 27. Col. 1: 22▪ having purchased grace for us Ephes. 1: 3. we are blessed with all spiritual blessings in Him: He applieth his merits and layeth the foundation of grace & holiness in the soul, & carrieth on the work of mortification and vivification, and so, killing the old man by his Spirit, both meritoriously & efficiently, he cleanseth and washeth. Hence we are said, to be Baptised with him in his death, and buried with him by baptism into death, that we should walk in newness of life: and so our old Man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed that henceforth we should not serve sin, Rom. 6: 3, 4, 6. And for our daily infirmities & escapes, whereby we pollute ourselves his blood is a fountain opened to the house of David & to the inhabitants of jerusalem, for sin & uncleanness Zach. 13: 1. and to this fountain he bringeth, by the spirit of repentance, which he, as an exalted prince, bestoweth. Act. 5: 31. & by faith. So 1 joh. 2: 1. If any Man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, etc.  
2. As for our ignorance & blindness, he taketh that away, being given for a light to the Gentiles. Esai. 42: 6. & 49. 6. Luk. 2. 32. He is sent to open the blind eyes Esa. 42: 7. to bring out the prisoners from their dark prisons, Esa. 42: 7. & 61: 1. Yea, he is anointed for this end. So that such as walk in darkness see a great light, and they that dwell in the land of the shadow of death, upon them the light hath shined, Esai. 9: 2. Mat. 4: 15. and he hath eye salve to give Revel 3: 18.  
3. He is qualified for taking away our impotency: so that through Him, we can do all things, Phil. 4: 13. When we are weak, we are strong in him, who is our strength, and liveth in us, 2 Cor. 12. 10. Gal. 2: 20. Hence He worketh in us both to will, & to do, of his own good pleasure, Phil. 2: 13.  
4. He also taketh away our natural averseness, unwillingness, wickedness & hatred of his ways, making his people willing, in the day of his power. Psal. 110. So he taketh away the enmity that is in us Col. 2: 20, 21. and reconcileth us to God, and to His ways, that our hearts do sweetly comply with them, and we become most willing and glad to walk in them: yea & to run the way of his commandments through his enlarging of our hearts, Psal. 119: 32.  
5. He likewise taketh away that desire and willingness; which we have to lie still in our natural condition; by convinceing us of the dreadful hazard thereof, through the Spirit of conviction, whereby he convinceth the world of in▪ john. 16: 8. and circumciseth their care to hear, & maketh them willing to hearken to the counsel of God.  
6. As for the power & Dominion of Satan, he breaketh that, by leading captivity captive. Ephes. 4: 8. Psal. 68: 18. and spoiling the strong Man's house: for he is come to destroy the works of the devil, 1 john. 3: 8. and He spoileth principalities & powers, Col. 2: 15. Thus, as captain of salvation, he leadeth them out as a conqueror; having paid the price, he delivereth also by power and authority, from the hand of this Jailor.  
And thus we see, how he answereth our case and necessity, and is a fit way for us: and though this be not questioned; yet little is it believed and considered, and less put in practice.  
And as for the Third particular. That He alone is this way, and answereth our case herein▪ it needeth not be much spoken to, since it is clear and manifest, confirmed by the experience of all generations, and the disappointments of fools, who have been seeking other ways. Angels in heaven cannot do our business. They cannot satisfy justice for 〈◊〉▪ nor have they any power over our heart to turn it as they will; nay they are not acquanted with our secret thoughts, that cabinet is kept close from them, and reserved as the peculiar privilege of God alone. The blood of bulls and goats can not do it: for the Apostle tells us, that it is impossible that that should take away sin, Heb. 10: 4. That blood shed according to the law did cleanse ceremonially, but it is only the blood of jesus, typified by that, which cleanseth really: so that we are sanctified through the offerring of the body of Jes●… Christ once for all. Heb. 10: 10. No pains or labour of ours can avail here. The Lord will not be pleased with thousands of rams, or with ten thousands of rivers of oil. He will not take our first borne for our transgression, nor the Son of our body for the sin of our soul, Micah. 6: 7. Ordinances and means will not do it, nor any invention of our own, No man can by any means redeem his brother, or give to God a ransom for him, for the redemption of the soul is precious & ceaseth for ever. Psal. 49: 7. 8. He alone hath laid down the price; all our sufferings, prayers, tears, labours, pennances, and the like, signify nothing here; they cannot satisfy justice for one sin.  
As to the fourth particular, viz the singularity of this way, Those things make it manifest and apparent.  
1. This is such a way, as can discover itself, and make itself known unto the erring traveller: Christ jesus is such a way, as can say to the wandering soul, This is the way walk in it, Esa. 30: 25. No way can do this. This is comfortable.  
2. This way can not only discover itself to the wandering traveller; but also it can bring folk into it. Christ can bring souls unto himself, when they are running on in their wandering condition, He can move their heart to turn in to the right way, put grace in their soul for this end, begin resolutions in them, and sow the seed of faith; and so stay their course, which they were violently pursueing, and make them look about and consider what they are doing: as the former was good news to poor blind and witless creatures, that were wandering, and knew not whither they were going; so this is good news to poor souls, that find their heart inclineing to wander, and loving to go astray.  
3. This way can cause us walk in it, If we be rebellious and obstinate. He can command with authority: for he is given for a leader and a commander, Esa. 55: 4. How sweet should this be to the soul, that is weighted with a stubborn, untractable and unperswadable heart, that He, as a King, Governor, & Commander, can with authority draw, or drive, and cause us follow and run?  
4. This way is Truth▪ as well as the Way, So that the soul that once entereth in here is saife for ever, no wandering here: The wayfareing men though fools shall not err in this way, Esa. 35: 8. He will bring the blind by a way that▪ they knew not, and lead them in paths that they have not known; he will make darkness light before them, and crooked things straight, those things will he do unto them, and not forsake them. Esai. 42: 16.  
5. This way is also Life: and so can revive the fainting and weary traveller: He giveth power to the faint, and to them that have no might, he Increaseth strength: Yea, he renowes their strength, and makes them mount up with wings as eagles, and run and not be weary, and walk and not faint, Esa. 40: 29, 31. and so he giveth legs to the traveller: yea he carrieth the lambs in his bosom Esa. 40: 11. O! who would not walk in this way? what can discourage the man that walketh here? what can he fear? no way can quicken or refresh the weary man. This way can do it: yea it can quicken one that is as dead, and cause him march on with fresh alacrity and vigour.  
6 From all these it followeth, that this way is a most pleasant, hartsome, desirable and comfortable way. The man is saife here, and he may sing in the ways of the Lord, Psal. 138: 5▪ for wisdoms ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace Prov. 3: 17. He is a Way, that is Food, Physic, cordials, and all that the poor traveller standeth in need of, till he come home.  
From all which, ●…re we come to particulars, we shall in general shortly point out those duties, which natively result thence by way of use.  
1. O! what cause is there here for all of us to fall on wondering, both that God should ever have condescended to have appointed a way, how sinners and rebels, that had wickedly departed from him, and deserved to be cast out of his presence and favour for ever, might come back again, and enjoy happiness and felicity, in the friendship and favour of that God, that could have goat the glory of his justice in our destruction, and stood in no need of us, or of any thing we could do: as also, that he appointed such a way, That jesus Christ, his only Son should, to speak so, lie as a bridge betwixt God and sinful rebels, and as a highway that they might return to the great God, upon him: Let all the creation of God wonder at this wonderful condescending love of God, that appointed such a way; and of Christ, that was content to lou●… so low, as to become this way to us, this new and living way▪ and that for this end, he should have taken on flesh, and become Emmanuel, God with us, and taberrackled with us, that through this veil of his flesh, he might consecrate a way to us. Let angels wonder at this condescendency.  
2. Hence we may see ground of being convinced of those things 1 That naturally we are out of the way to peace and favour with God, and in a way that leadeth to death, and so, that our misery and wreatchednesse, so long as it is, so, cannot be expressed. 2. That we can do nothing for ourselves, set all our wits a work we cannot fall upon a way that will bring us home. 3. That it is madness for us to seek out another way, and to vex ourselves in vain, to run to this and to that mean, or invention of our own, and be found fools in end. 4. That our madness is so much the greater in this, that we will turn to our own ways, that will fail us, when there is such a noble and excellent & every way satisfying way prepared to our hand. 5. That our wickedness is so desperate, that the way, which is pointed out to us, doth not please us, and that we will not enter into it, not walk in it, 6. That this Way, which is also the Truth and the Life, is only worth the Imbraceing, and is only saife and sure: we should be convinced and persuaded of the worth, sufficiency and desireableness of this way. Reason with ordinary light from the word may teach these things; But grace can only carry them into the heart, and make them take rooting there.  
3. We may read here our obligation unto those particulars. 1. To turn our back upon all other false and deceitful ways, and not rest there. 2. To enter into this way; though the gate be narrow & straight, Mat. 7: 13. Luk. 13: 24. yet to strive to enter in. 3. To resolve to abide in that way as acquiesceing in it, resting satisfied with it, and this is to be rooted in him, Col. 2: 7. & to dwell in him. 1 john. 3: 24. & to live in him or through him! 1. john. 4: 9 4. To walk in this way, Col. 2: 6. that is, to make constant use of him, and to make progress in the way, in & through him: to go from strength to strength in him, drawing all our furniture from him, by faith, according to the covenant: And this sayeth, that the soul should guaird against, 1 stepping aside out of this good & pleasant way. 2. backslideing. 3. sitting up & fainting by the way.  
In a word, This pointeth out our duty, to make use of Christ as our way to the father; and only of Christ: and this leads us to the particulars we shall speak a little to.  
There are two main things, which stand in our way, and hinder us from approaching to the Father, 1. Unrighteousness and guilt, whereby we are legally banished because of the broken covenant, and the righteous sentence of God according to that covenant: & 2. Wickedness, impurity & unholiness, which is, as a physical bar, lying in our way, because nothing that is unclean can dwell and abide with him, who is of purer eyes than he can behold inquitie; and nothing that is unclean can enter in there, where He is. So then there must be an usemaking of Christ, as a way, through both these impediments. We need justification & pardon for the one, and sanctification & cleansing for the other. Now Christ being the way to the Father; both as to justification, in taking away the enmity, in changing our state, & removing our unrighteousness, & guilt, whereby we were lying under the sentence of the law, adjudging such sinners, as we are, to hell: and as to sanctification, in cleansing us from all our pollutions, renewing our souls, washing away our spots & defilements etc. He must be made use of in reference to both.  
In speaking to the first, we shall be the shorter, because, through God's great mercy, the gospel pure way of justification by faith in Christ, is richly and abundantly cleared up by many worthy authors of late, both as concearning the theoretical, and practical part.   

CHAP. IU. How Christ is made use of for justification, as a Way.  
WHat Christ hath done to purchase, procure & to bring about our justification before God, is mentioned already viz. That He stood in the room of sinners, engaging for them as their cautioner, undertaking, & at length paying down the ransom: becoming sin, or a sacrifice for sin, & a curse for them, and so laying down his life a ransom to satisfy divine justice: and this he hath made known in the gospel, calling sinners to an accepting of him, as their only Mediator, and to a resting upon him for life & salvation; and withal working- up such, as belong to the election of grace, to an actual closeing with him, upon the conditions of the covenant, & to an accepting of him, believing in him, & resting upon him, as satisfied with, and acquiesceing in that sovereign way of salvation & justification, through a crucified mediator.  
Now, for such as would make use of Christ as the way to the Father in the point of justification, those things are requisite; to which we shall only premit this word of caution; That we Judge not the want of these requisites a ground to exeem any, that heareth the gospel, from the obligation to believe & rest upon Christ, as He is offered in the gospel.  
First▪ There must be a conviction of sin & miser●…, a conviction of original guilt, whereby we are banished out of God's presence & favour, & are in a state of enmity & death, are come short of the glory of God. Rom. 3: 23. becomeing dead or under the sentence of death, through the offence of one, Rom. 5: 15. being made sinners by one Man's disobedience vers, 19 and therefore under the reigneing power of death vers. 17. and under that judgement, which came upon all men to condemnation, vers. 18. And of original innate wickedness, whereby the heart is filled with enmity against God, and is a hater of Him & of all his ways; standing in full opposition to him & to his holy laws; loving to contradict and resist him in all his actings; despiseing and undervalueing all his condescensious of love; obstinately refuseing his goodness & offers of mercy; & perempto●…ily persisting in rebellion & heart opposition; not only not accepting his kindnesses & offers of mercy; but contemning them, trampling them underfoot as embittered against him. As also there must be a conviction of our actual transgressions, whereby we have corrupted our ways yet more, run further away from God, brought on more wrath upon our souls, according to that sentence of the law, cursed is every one that abideth not in all that is written in the law to do it. Deut. 27: 26. Gal. 3: 10. What way this conviction is begun & carried on in the soul, and to what a measure it must come, I cannot now stand to explain: only in short know, That upon whatsoever occasion it be begun, whether by a word carried home to the heart by the finger of God, or by some sharp & crossing dispensation, fear of approaching death, some heinous outbreaking, or the like, it is a real thing, a heart reaching conviction, not general & notional, but particular, plain, and pinching, affecting the heart with fear & terror, making the soul seriously & really to mind this matter, to be taken up with the thoughts of it, and anxiously & earnestly to cry out, what shall I do to be saved, and finally will make the soul willing to hearken & hear what hopes of mercy there is in the gospel, and to embrace the way of salvation, which is there laid down: And the reason of this is, because Christ himself tells us, The whole needeth not the physician, but the sick, Mat. 9: 12. He is not come to call the righteous, that is, such as are righteous in their own eyes, but sinners, that is, such as are no more now whole at the heart, as seeing no evil, no hazard or danger; but pricked & pierced with the sense of their lost condition, being under the heavy wrath & vengeance of the great God, because of sin; and seeing their own vileness, cursedness, wickedness & desperate madness. Because naturally we hate God & Christ john. 15: 23, 24, 25. and have a strong natural antipathy at the way of salvation through jesus; therefore, nothing but strong & inevitable necessity will drive us to a compliance with this gospel device of love.  
2. There must be some measure of humiliation: under this conviction the man is bowed down, and made mute before God; no more boasting of his goodness & of his happy condition; no high or great thoughts of his righteousness; for all are now to be looked on as filthy rags, Esai 64: 6. what things were as gain before to the soul, must now be counted loss, yea and as dung Phil. 3: 7, 8. The man must be cast down, in himself, and far from high and conceity thoughts of himself, or of any thing he ever did, or can do: for the Lord resisteth the proud, but giveth grace to the humble, Jam 4: 6. 1 Pet. 5: 5. He reviveth the Spirit of the humble. Esa 57: 15. He that humbleth himself shall be exalted, Mat. 18: 4. & 23: 12. Luk. 14: 11. & 18: 14.  
3. There must be a despaireing of getting help or relief out of this condition, by ourselves, or any thing we can do: a conviction of the unprofitableness of all things under the sun for our relief: No expectation of help from our supposed good heart, good purposes, good deeds; works of charity, many prayers, commendation of others, sober & harmless walking, or any thing else within us or without us, that is not Christ: for so long as we have the least hope or expectation of doing our own business without Christ, we will never come to Him. Our heart hangeth so after the old way of salvation through works, that we cannot endure to hear of any other, nor can we yield to any other: could we but have heaven by the way of works; we would spare no pains, no coast, no labour, no expenses; Nay we would put ourselves to much pain & torment by whip, cuttings, fastings watchings, and the like; we would not spare our first borne; nay, we would dig our graves in a rock with our nails, and cut our own days, could we but get heaven by this means: such is our antipathy at the way of salvation through a crucified Christ, that we would choose any way▪ but that, cost what it would: therefore before we can heartyly close with Christ & accept of him, we must be put from those refuges of lies, and see that there is nothing but a disappointment written on them all, that all our prayers, fastings, cries, duties, reformations, sufferings, good wishes, good deeds &c, are nothing in his eyes, but so many provocations to the eyes of his jealousy, and so, further causes of our misery.  
4. There must be a rational, deliberate, & resolute relinquishing of all those things in our selves, on which our heart is ready to dote. The Man being convinced of the vanity of all things, by which he hath been hoping for salvation, must now purpose to lose his grips off them, to turn his back upon them, to quite them with purpose of heart, & say to them, get you hence, as Esa. 30: 22. This is to deny ourselves, which we must do, ere we become his disciples Mat. 16. 24. This is to forsake our Father's house Psal. 45: 10. and to pluck out our right eye, & to cut off our right arm. Mat. 5: 29, 30. This abandoning of all our former false props & subterfuges must be resolute, over the belly of much opposition within, from the carnal & natural inclinations of the heart; and of much opposition without, from Satan's insnareing suggestions, & deceitful temptations: It must be a real, rational act of the Soul, upon solid and through conviction of their unprofitableness; yea of their dangerousness & destructiveness.  
5. There must be some knowledge of the nature of the gospel covenant, and of the way, which now God hath chosen, whereby to glorify his grace in the salvation of poor sinners. That God, Father, Son, & Holy ghost thought good, for the glory of free grace, and wisdom, in a way of Justice & mercy, to send Jesus Christ to assume man's nature, and so become God & man in two distinct natures, & one person for ever; & to become under the law, to undergo the curse thereof, and to die the cursed death of the cross, to satisfy justice, and to pay the ransom for the redemption of the elect. In which undertaking our Lord was a servant Esa. 42: 1. & 49: 6. & 52: 13. & 53: 11. Zech. 3: 8. Matth. 12: 18. and had furniture from God for all his undertaking Esai. 42: 1. & ●…1: 1, 2. Mat. 12: 18. and had a promise of seeing his seed, & of prolonging his days etc. Esa. 53: 10. 11. Thus there was a covenant of Redemption betwixt God & the Mediator: and the Mediator undertaking was obliged to perform all that he undertook, and accordingly did so: for as the Lord laid on him, or caused to meet together on him, the iniquity of us all Esa. 53: 6. So in due time He bear our griefs and carried our sorrows: He was wounded for our transgressions & bruised for our iniquities, the chastisement of our peace was upon him: He was cut off out of the land of the living, and stricken for the transgression of his people. He made his soul an offering for sin, & bear the iniquities of his people. Pouring out his soul unto death; he bear the sin of many, & made intercession for the transgressors' Esa. 53: 4, 5, 8, 10, 11, 12. So that what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, for sin, (or by a sacrifice for sin) condemned sin in the flesh Rom. 8: 3. that the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us vers. 4. Thus he made him sin, (or a sacrifice for sin) that we might become righteous 2 Cor. 5: 20. and he was once offered to bear the sins of many Heb. 9: 28. and he through the eternal spirit offered himself without spot to God. vers. 14. and his own self bear our sins in his own body on the tree 1 Pet. 2: 24. There must, I say, be some knowledge of, and acquaintance with this great mystery of the gospel, wherein is declared the manifold wisdom of God Ephes. 3: 10. and with the noble design of God in sending his Son after this manner, to die the death, that condemned sinners might live, and return to the bosom of God, as redeemed not with gold or silver or corruptible things; but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish & without spot 1 ●…et. 1: 18. and being so redeemed by blood, to become kings & priests unto God, 1 Pet. 2: 2, Revel 5: 9, 10. The man must not be ignorant of this, else all will be in vain. I do not determine, how destinct and full this knowledge must be; but sure, there must be so much knowledge of it, as will give the soul ground of hope; and, in expectation of salvation by this way, cause it turn its back upon all other ways, and to account itself happy, if it could once win here.  
6. There must be a persuasion of the sufficiency, completeness & satisfactorynesse of the way of salvation, through this crucified Mediator; el●…e the soul will not be induced to leave its other courses, and betake itself to this alone. He must be sure, that salvation is only to be had this way; And that undoubtedly it will be had this way; that so with confidence he may cast himself over on this way, and sweetly sing in hope of a noble outgate. And therefore he must believe, that Christ is really God as well as Man, and a true Man, as well as God; that he is fully furnished for the work of Redemption, having the spirit given to him without measure; and endued fully and richly with all qualifications, fitting him for all our necessiries, & enabling him to save to the uttermost all that come unto God by him, Heb. 7. 25; that He is made of God to us wisdom, righteousness, sanctification and redemption, 1 〈◊〉. 1: 30. That all power in heaven & earth is given unto Him. Mat. 28: 18. That all things are put under his feet, and that He is given to be the head over all things to the Church Ephes. 1: 22. That in him dwelleth all fullness Col. 1: 19 That in him are hid all the treasures of wisdom & knowledge. Col. 2: 3, yea, that in him dwelleth all the fullness of the godhead bodily: so that we are complete in him, who is the head of all principality & power verse. 9, 10.  
7. The soul must know, that He is not only an able & alsufficient mediator; but that also he is willing and ready, to redeem & save all that will come: for all the preceding particulars will but increase his sorrow, and torment him more, so long as he supposeth▪ through ignorance, & the suggestion of Satan, that he hath no part in that redemption, no access to it, no ground of hope of salvation by it. Therefore it is necessary, that the soul conceive not only a possibility; but also a probability of help this way; and that the dispensation of the gospel of grace, and the promulgation and offer of those good news to him, speak out so much; that the patience of God waiting long, and his goodness renewing the offers, confirmeth this; that his serious pressing, his strong motives on the one hand, and his sharp threatenings on the other; his reiterated commands, his ingeminated obtestations; his expressed sorrow & grief over such as would not come to him, his upbraid & objurgations of such▪ as do obstinately refuse, and the like, put his willingness to save such as will come to him, out of all question: yea●… his obviating of objections, and takeing all excuses out of their mouth, make●… the case plain and manifest; so that such as will no●… come, are left without excuse, and have no impediment lying in the way, but their own unwillingness.  
8. The man must know upon what terms & conditions Christ offereth himself in the gospel▪ viz. upon condition of accepting of Him, believing in him and resting upon him; and that no other way can we be made partakers of the good things purchased by Christ, but by accepting of Him, as he is offered in the gospel, that is to say, freely▪ without price or money Esa. 55: 1. absolutely without reservation: wholly, & for all ends etc. for till this be known there will be no closeing with Christ; and till there be a closeing with Christ, there is no advantage to be had by him, The soul must be married to him as an husband; fixed to him as the branches to the tree; united to him as the members to the head; become one with him, one Spirit. 1. Cor. 6. 17. See john. 15: 5. Ephes. 5: 30. The soul must close with him for all things; adhere to him upon all hazards; take him and the sharpest cross that followeth him: now I say, the soul must be acquanted with these conditions: for it must act deliberately & rationally here: Covenanting with Christ is a grave business & requireth deliberation, posednesse of soul, rational resolution, full purpose of heart, & satisfaction of soul; and therefore the man must be acquanted with the conditions of the new covenant.  
9 There must be a satisfaction with the terms of the gospel, and the heart must actually close with Christ, as h●…s offered in the gospel. The heart must open to him, and take him in, Revel 3: 20. The soul must embrace and receive him joh. 1: 12. The man must take him, as his Lord and Master King, Priest & Prophet; must give up himself to him as his Leader and Commander, and resolve to follow him in all things, and thus close a bargain with him: for till this be done there is no union with Christ; and till there be an union with Christ, there is no partaking of the fruits of his redemption, as to justification▪ no pardon, no acceptance, no access to the favour of God, nor peace, nor joy in the holy ghost, no getting of the conscience sprinkled, nor no intimation of love or favour from God. etc.  
10. There must be a leanning to, and resting upon him and on his perfect sacrifice. The soul must sit down here as satisfied, and acquiesce in this complete mediation of his. This is to believe on him, to rest on him joan. 3: 18. 1 Pet. 2: 6. as an alsufficient help. This is to cast the burden of a brocken covenant, of a guilty conscience, of deserved wrath, of the curse of the law etc. upon Him, that He may bear away those evils from us. This is to put on the Lord jesus (in part) Rom. 1●…: 14▪ to cover ourselves with his righteousness from the face of justice, to stand in this armour of proof against the accusations of Law, Satan, and an evil conscience: This is to flee to him as to our city of refuge, that we may be saife from the avenger of blood: This is to make him, our refuge from the strome of God's anger, and, a shadow from th●… heat of his wrath Esa. 25. 4. and our hideing place from the wind, and a covert from the tempest, and as the shadow of a great rock in a weary land Esai. 32: 2. When we hide ourselves in him as the complete cautioner, that hath fully satisfied justice, and desire to be found in him alone, not having our own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith, Phil. 3: 9 This is to lay our hand on the head of the sacrifice, when we rest on this sacrifice, and exsp●…ct salvation through it alone. This is to cast ourselves in Christ's arms, as peremptorily resolving to go no other way to the Father, and to plead no other ●…ighteousnesse before God's bar, but Christ's. That is faith, yea the lively acting of justifying faith.  
Thus then is Christ made use of, as the way to the Father, in the point of justification, when the poor w●…kened sinner, convinced of his sin and misery, of his own inability to help himself, of the insufficiency of all means beside Christ; of Christ's alsufficiency▪ readiness, and willingness to help, of the equity and reasonabln●…sse of the conditions on which he is offered, and life through him, is now content, and fully satisfied with this way, actually renunceing all other ways whatsomever, and doth with heart, and hand embrace jesus Christ, & take him as he is offered in the gospel, to make use of him for all things, to lean to him, and rest upon him in all hazards; and particularly to refuge itself 〈◊〉 his wings, and to rest there with complacency, satisfaction, & delight; and hide itself from the wrath of God, & all accusations.  
Yet it would be known, that this act of faith, whereby the soul goeth out to Christ, and accepteth of and leaneth to him, is not alike in all: for▪  
1. In Some it way be more lively, strong & active, like the centurious faith, that could a●…gue syllogistically. Matth. 8: 8, etc. which Christ looked upon as a great faith, a greater whereof he had not found, no not in Israel vers. 10. and like the faith of the woman of Canaan Mat. 15: 21. etc. that would take no nay say, but of seeming refu●…eals did make arguments, which Christ commended as a great faith vers. 28. But in others, it may be more weak, and fainting, not able to reason a●…ight for its own comfort and strength, as Mat. 6: 30. ●…ut is mixed with much fear, as Math. 8: 26. yea and with much faithlesness, so that the soul must cry, Lord help my unbeleef Mark 9▪ 24.  
2. In some, the acts and actings of this faith may be more clear, and discerneable, both by themselves, and by spiritual on-lookers: In others so covered over with an heap of doubts, unbeleef, jealousy, & other corruption, that the actings of it can hardly, or not at all, be perceived by themselves or others, so that nothing shall be heard but complaints, fears, doubtings, and objections.  
3. In some, this faith may have strong, and perceptible actings, wreastling thorough much discouragement and opposition, and many difficulties; as in that woman of Canaan Matth. 15. running tho●…ow with peremptory resoluteness; saying with job. Cap. 13. 15. though he stay me, yet will I trust in him; and thus taking the kingdom of heaven with violence. In others it may be so weak, that the least opposition or discouragement may be sufficient to make the soul give over hope, & almost despair of overcomeing and winning thorough: & be as a bruised reed, or a smoking flax.  
4. In some, though it appear not strong, & violent or wilful (in a manner) in its actings; yet it may be firm, fixed, & resolute, in staying upon Him, Esa. 26: 3, 4. and trusting in Him. Psal. 125. 1. resolving to hang there, and if it perish It perisheth. In others weak, & bashful.  
5. In some, it may be yet weaker, going out in strong & vehement hungerings, Mat. 5: 6. The man dar not say, that he doth believe, or that he doth adhere to Christ, and stay upon him; yet he dar say, he longeth for him, and panteth after Him, as ever the hart doth after the wa●…ter brooks Psal. 42: 1, 2. he hungereth and thirsteth for him, and cannot be satisfied with any thing without him.  
6. in some, it may be that weak, that the soul can only perceive the heart looking out after Him: upon little more ground, than a may be it shall be helped Esai. 45: 22. They look to Him for salvation, being convinced that there is no other way, and resolved to follow no other way, they resolve to lie at his door, waiting and looking for à sight of the king's face, and to lie there waiting till they die, if no better may be.  
7. In some, it may be so weak, that nothing more can be perceived, but a satisfaction with the terms of the covenant, a willingness to accept of the bargain, and an heart consenting thereunto, though they dar not say, that they actually close therewith, yea nor dar say, that they shall be welcome Revel. 22: 17.  
8. In some, it may be so weak and low, that they cannot say, that they have any right hunger or desire after Him, nor that their heart doth rightly and really consent to the covenant of grace; yet they would fain be at it, and cry out oh for a willing heart. O for ardent desires! O for a right hunger! and they are dissatisfied and can not be reconciled with their hearts, for not desiring more, hungering more, consenting more; so that if they had this, they would think themselves happy and upmade. And thus we see their faith is so low, that it appeareth in nothing, more manifestly, than in their complain of the want of it.  
So then the poor weak believer needeth not be so far discouraged, as to despair and give over the matter as hopeless & lost: let him hang on, depend, and wait; a week faith to day may become stronger within a short time. He that laid the foundation, can and will finish the building, for all his Works are perfect. And a weak faith, when true, will prove saving, and lay hold on a saving strong Mediator.  
Moreover, as to the acting of faith on Christ's death and sacrifice; for stopping the mouth of Conscience, Law, Satan, and for opposeing to the pursueing Justice of God because of sin. It may some times be strong, distinct, clear and resolute. At other times again be weak, mixed, or accompanied with much fear, perplexity doubting, and distrust, because of their own seen unworthiness, many failings, doubtings of the sincerity of their repentance, and the like.  
This is a main business, and of great concearnment, yet many are not much troubled about it, nor exercised at the heart hereabout, as they ought, deceiving themselves with foolish imaginations; for  
1. They think, they were believers all their days, they never doubted of God's grace and goodwill, they had always a good heart for God, though they never knew what a wakened conscience, or sense of the wrath of God meaned.  
2. Or they think, because God is merciful, he will not be so severe, as to stand upon all those things, that Ministers require; forgetting that He is a just God, and a God of truth, that will do according to what He hath said.  
3. Or they suppose, it is an easy matter to believe, & not such a difficult thing as it is called: not considering or believing, that no less power, than that, which raised Christ again from the dead, will work up the heart unto faith.  
4. Or they resolve that they will do it afterward, at some more convenient season; not perceiving the cunning slight of Satan in this, nor considering that faith is not in their power, but the gift of God; and that if they lay not hold on the call of God, but harden their heart in their day, God may judicially blind them, so that these things shall be hid from their eyes; and so that occasion, they pretend to wait for, never come.  
Oh if such, whom this mainly concearneth, could be induced to enter into this way, considering.  
1 That except they enter into this way, they cannot be false the wrath of God will pursue them, the avenger of blood will overtake them; no Salvation but here.  
2 That in this way is certain Salvation; this way will infallibly lead to the Father; for he keepeth in the way and bringeth saife home Exod. 23: 20.  
2 It's the old path▪ and the good way, jer. 6: 16. all the saints have the experience of this, who are already come to glory: and.  
4. It is a high way, and a way of righteousness, wherein if very fools walk, they shall not wand●…r, Esai. 35: 8, 9 and if the weak walk in it, they shall not faint Esai. 40: 31.  
5. That except this be done, there is no advantage to be had by Him, His death & all his sufferings, as to those persons that will not believe and enter into him as the way to the Father, are in vain.  
6. Yea, such as will not believe in Him, say in effect, either that Christ hath not died nor consecrated away through the veil of his flesh: or that all that He hath done & suffered is not sufficient for bringing a soul home to God: or that they can do their own business without him▪ and that it was a foolish and vain thing for Christ to die the death for that end: or lastly that they care not for salvation, they are indifferent whether they perish, or be saved:  
7. That, as to them, the whole gospel is in vain, all the ordinances, all the administration of ordinances, all the pains of Ministers are in vain.  
8. That, as to them, all Christ's entreaties, motives, allurements, patience and long suffering, his standing at the door and knocking, till his locks be wet with the dew etc. are in vain: yea, they are contemptuously rejected, despised, slighted, & undervalved.  
9 That all the great promises are by such rejected as untrue, or as not worthy the seeking or having: and that all the threatenings on the other hand, are not to be regairded or feared.  
10. In a word. That heaven, and the fellowshipe of God is not worth the seeking; and that hell and the fellowshipe of devils is not worth the fearing. Or that there is neither a heaven, nor a hell: and that all are but fictions: and that there is no such thing as the wrath of God against sinners, o●… that it is not much to be feared.  
If it be asked, what warrant have poor sinners to lay hold on Christ, and grippe to him, as made of God righteousness?  
I answer, Our absolute necessity of him, is a ground to press us to go and seek help and relief: we see we are gone in ourselves, and therefore are we allowed to seek out for help elsewhere.  
2 Christ's alsufficient furniture, whereby he is a qualified mediator, fitted with all necessaries for our case & condition, having laid down a price to the satisfaction of justice, is a sufficient invitation for us to look toward him for help, and to wait at that door.  
3. His being appointed of the Father, to be mediator of the covenant, and particularly to lay down his life a ransom for sin; and Christ's undertaking all his offices, and performeing all the duties thereof, conform to the covenant of redemption, is a strong encouragement to poor sinners to come to Him; because He cannot deny himself, and he will be true to his trust.  
4. The Father's offering of him to us in the gospel, and Christ's inviteing us, who are weary, and heavy loaden; yea calling and commanding such to come to him, in his own, and in his Father's name, under the pain of his and his Father's wrath and everlasting displeasure; exhorting further and requesting upon terms of love, pressing earnestly by many motives, sending out his ambassadors to beseech, in his stead, poor sinners to be reconciled, and to turn in to him for life and salvation: yea upbraiding such as will not come to him: all these are a sufficient warrant for a poor necessitous sinner to lay hold on his offer.  
And further, to encourage poor souls to come unto him, all things are so well ordered in the gospel as that nothing occurreth, that can in the least prove a stumbling block, or a just ground of excuse, for their forbearing to believe, and to accept of his offer: all objections possible are obviated to such, as are but willing? the way is cast up; and all stones of stumbling cast out of it; so that such as will not come can pretend no excuse. They cannot object the greatness of their sins: for the greater their sins be, they have the greater need of one who is sent to take away sin, and whose blood purgeth from all sin, 1 Joh: 1: 7. what great sinner did he ever refuse, that came to him, and was willing to be saved by him▪ Is there any clause in all the gospel exclud●…ing great sinners? Nor need they object, their great unworthiness: for ●…e doth all freely for the glory of his free grace: 〈◊〉▪ got any good of him for their worth: for no man ever had any worth. Nor need they object their long refuseing, and resisting many calls: for he will make such as are willing welcome at the Eleventh hour. Him that cometh he will in no case put away joh. 6: 37. Nor can they object their changeableness, that they will not stand to the bargan, but break and return with the dog to the vomit: for Christ hath engaged to bring all thorough that come to him, He will raise them up at the last day, Joh. 6: 40. He will present them▪ to himself holy and without spote or wrinkle, or any such thing▪ Ephes. 5. The covenant is fully provided with promises to stop the mouth of that objection. Nor can they object the difficulty, or impossibility of believing: for that is Christ's work also. He is the author and finisher of faith Heb. 12: 1. Can they not with confidence cast themselves upon him; yet if they can hunger and thirst for him, and look to him, he will accept of that: look to me (says he) and be saved Esa. 45: 22. If they cannot look to him, nor hunger & thirst for him; yet if they be willing, all is well: are they willing that Christ save them in his way, and therefore willingly give themselves over to him, and are willing and content, that Christ by his spirit work more hunger in them, and a more lively faith, and work both to will and to do according to his own good pleasure. it is well.  
But it will be said, that the terms and conditions, on which he offereth himself, are hard Ans. I grant the terms are hard to flesh and blood, and to proud unmortified nature, but to such as are willing to be saved, so as God way be most glorified, the terms are easy, most rational and satisfying: for▪  
1. We are required to take Him only for our mediator, and to join none with him, and to mix nothing with him. Corrupt nature is averse from this, and would at least mix something of self with him, and not rest on Christ only: corrupt nature would not have the man wholly denying himself, and following Christ only: and hence many lose themselves and lose all; because with the Gallatians they would mix the law and the gospel together; do something themselves for satisfaction of justice, & take Christ for the rest that remains. Now the Lord will have all the glory, as good reason is, & will have none to share with him. He will give of his glory to none. And is not this rational and easy? What can be objected against this?  
2. We are required to take him Wholly, that He may be a complete Mediator to us, as a Prophet to teach, as a King to subdue our l●…sts, to cause us walk in his ways, as well as a Priest to satisfy justice for us, to die & in●…ercede for us. Is it not reason, that we take him as God hath made him for us? Is there any thing in him to be refused? And is there any thing in Him which we have no need of? Is there not all the reason then in the world for this, that we take Him wholly? and what stumbling block is here?  
3. We are required to take Him Freely, without money and without price Esa. 55: 1▪ for He, will not b●… bough●… any m●…nner of way: th●…t free grace may be free grace, therefore he will give all freely. True enough it is, corruption would be at buying, though it have nothing to lay out: Pride will not stoop to a free gift. But can any say the terms are hard, when all is offered freely?  
4. We are required to take him absolutely, without any reversion or mental reservation. Some would willingly quite all, but one or two lusts, that they cannot think to twin with: and they would deny themselves in many things, but they would still most willingly keep a back door open to some beloved lust, or other. And who seeth not what double dealing is here? And what reason can plead for this double dealing? Corruption, it is true, will think this hard, but no man can rationally say, that this is a just ground of discouragement, to any; or a sufficient ground to warrant them to stay away from Christ▪ seeing they cannot be supposed sincerely to desire redemption from any sin, who would not desire redemption from every sin. He who loveth any known lust, and would not willingly be delivered therefrom, hath no re●…ll hatred at any lust, as such▪ nor desire to be saved; for one such lust would be his death.  
5. It is required, that we accept of Him really and cordially, with our heart and soul, and not by a mere external verbal profession: and is there not all the reason in the world for this? He offereth Himself really to us, and shall we not be real in accepting of Him? what, I pray, can justly be excepted against this? or what real discouragement can any gather from this?  
6. We are to take Him for all necessities, that i●…, with a resolution to make use of Him as our alsufficient Mediator. And is not this most reasonable? Ought we not to take Him for all the ends and purposes, for which God hath appointed Him, and set Him forth, and offered Him to us? What then can any suppose to lie here, which should scare a soul from laying hold upon Him? Nay should not this be looked upon as a very great encouragement? And should we not bless the Lord, that hath provided such a compleet and alsufficient Mediator?  
7. We are to take Him, and all the crosses, that may attend our taking or following of Him: we must take up our cross, be it what it will be, that He thinketh good to appoint for us, and follow Him. Matth. 16: 24▪ Mark. 8: 34. for he that taketh not up his cross, and followeth not after Him, is not worthy of Him. Mat. 10: 38. I know, flesh and blood will take this for a hard saying; but they, that consider, that Christ will bear the heavyest end of the cross, yea all of it, and so support, them by his Spirit, while they are under it, that they shall have no just cause to compleane; and how He will suffer none to go his errand, upon their own charges, but will be with them, when they go through fire and water, Esai. 43: 2. so that they shall suffer no loss, neither shall the waters over flow them; nor the fire kindle upon them: and that he who loseth his life, for Christ's sake, & the gospels, shall save it. Mark. 8: 35. yea, that they shall receive an hundred fold for all th●… losses Matth. 19: 29. and that even with persecution, Mark. 10. 30. and in the world to come eternal life. They, I say, who consider this, will see no discouragement here, nor ground of complaint; nay, they will account it their glory to suffer any loss for Christ's sake.  
8. Hence it followeth, that we are to take Him, so as to avouch Him, and his cause, and interest, on all hizards, stand to his truth, and not be ashamed of Him, in a day of trial. Confession of Him must be made with the mouth, as with the heart we must believe Ro. 10: 9 Let corruption speak against this what it will, because it is always desireous to keep the skin whole: yet reason cannot but say, that it is equitable, especially, seeing He hath said▪ that whosoever confesseth Him before men, He will confess them before his Father which is in heaven. Mat. 10. 32. And that, if we suffer with Him, we shall also reign with Him. 2 Tim. 2. 12. Is He our Lord and Master, and should we not own and avouch Him? Should we be ashamed of him for any thing, that can befall us, upon that account? What Master would not take that ill at his servants hands?  
Hence than we see, that there is nothing in all the conditions, on which He offereth Himself to us, that can give the least ground, in reason, why a poor soul should draw back, and be unwilling to accept of this noble offer, or think that the conditions are hard.  
But there is one main Objection, which may trouble some, and that is. They cannot believe: faith being the gift of God, it must be wrought in them▪ How then can they go to God for this, and make use of Christ for this end, that their souls may be wrought up to a believing & consenting to the bargan and hearty accepting of the offer?  
To this I would say these things.  
1. It is true, that faith is the gift of God. Ephes. 2: 8. and that it is He alone who worketh in us, both to will & to do Phil. 1: 29, and none cometh to the son, but whom the father draweth john. 6: 44. and it is a great matter, and no small advancement, to win to the real faith, and through conviction of this our impotency: for thereby the soul will be brought to a greater measure of humiliation, and of despaireing of salvation in itself, which is no small advantage unto a poor soul that would be saved.  
2. Though faith be not in our power, yet it is our duty: Our impotency to perform our duty, doth not lose our obligation to the duty; so that our not believing is our sin; and for this God may justly condemn us. His wrath abideth on all, who believe not in his Son Jesus, and will not accept of the offer of salvation through the crucified mediator. And though faith, as all other acts of grace, be efficiently the work of the Spirit, yet it is formally our work: we do believe; but it is the Spirit that worketh faith in us.  
3. The ordinary way of the Spirit's working faith in us, is by pressing home the duty upon us, whereby we are brought to a despairing in ourselves and to a looking out to Him, whose grace alone it is that can work it in the soul, for that necessary 〈◊〉 and breathing, without, which the soul will not come.  
4. Christ Jesus hath purchased this grace of faith, to all the elect, as other graces necessary to their salvation: and it is promised and convenanted to Him; that He shall see his seed and shall see of the travel of his soul Esai. 53: 10, 11. and that by the knowledge of him, that is, the rational and understanding act of the soul gripping to and laying hold upon Him, as he is offered in the gospel, many shall be justified: Ibid. Hence he sayeth, that all, whom the father hath given to Him, shall come unto Him, joh. 6: 37. and the Apostle tells us, that we are blessed with all spiritual blessings in Him, Ephes. 1: 3.  
5. Not only hath Christ purchased this grace of faith, and all other graces necessary for the salvation of the elect; but God hath committed to Him the administration and actual dispensation and outgiving of all those graces, which the redeemed stand in need of. Hence, He is a Prince exalted to give repentance and forgiveness of sins Act. 5: 31. all power in heaven and earth is committed unto him. Mat. 28: 18: 19 Hence, He is called the author and finisher of faith Heb. 12: v. 2. and He telleth his disciples john. 14▪ 13. 14. That whatever they shall ask in his name, He will do it. He is made Prince and a Saviour, having all judgement committed unto him. john. 5: 22. and He is Lord of all Act. 10: 36. Rom. 14: 9  
6. Hereupon, the sinner being convinced of his lost condition, through sin and misery: of an utter impossibility of helping himself out of that state of death: of Christ's alsufficiency, and willingness to save all that will come to Him; and of its own inability to believe or come to Him for life and salvation; or to lay hold on and lean to his merits and satisfaction, and so despaireing in himself, is to look out to jesus the author of eternal salvation, the foundation and chief corner stone, the author and finisher of faith. I say, the sinner, being thus convinced, is thus to look out to jesus; not that, that conviction is any proper qualification, prerequisite as necessary, either to prepare, dispose, and fit for faith, or, far less, to merit, any manner of way, or bring on faith; But because this is Christ's method to bring a soul to faith by this conviction, to the glory of his grace. The soul naturally being averse from Christ, and utterly unwilling to accept of that way of salvation, must be redacted to that strait, that it shall see, that it must either accept of this offer, or die: as the whole needeth not a physician; so Christ is come to save only that which is lost: and his method is to convince the world of sin, in the first place, and then of righteousness john. 16: 8, 9  
7. This looking out to jesus for faith, comprehendeth those things 1. The Souls acknowledgement of the necessity of faith, to the end it may partake of Christ, and of his merits. 2. The souls satisfaction with that way of partaking of Christ; by a closeing with Him, and a resting upon Him, by faith 3. A sense and conviction of the unbelief and stubbornness of the heart; or a seeing of its own impotency, yea and unwillingness to believe 4. A persuasion that Christ can overmaster the infidelity, & wickedness of the heart, and work up the soul to a willing consent unto the bargain. 5. A hope, or a half hope (to speak so) that Christ, who is willing to save all poor sinners, that come to Him for salvation, and hath said, that He will put none away in any case, that cometh, will have pity upon him at length. 6. A resolution to lie at his door, till he come with life, till He quicken, till He unite the soul to Himself. 7. A lying open to the breathe of his Spirit, by guarding against every thing (so far as they can) that may grieve or provok Him, and waiting on Him in all the ordinances, He hath appointed, for begetting of faith; such as reading the scriptures, hearing the word, conference with godly persons, and prayer etc. 8. A waiting with patience on Him, who never said to the house of jacob, seek me, in vain, Esai. 45: 19 still crying, and looking to Him, who hath commanded the ends of the earth to look to him; and waiting for him, who waiteth to be gracious, Esai. 30: 18. remembering that they are all blessed that wait for him, Ibid. and that there is much good prepared for them, that wait for Him. Esai. 64: 4.  
8. The sinner would essay this believing, and closeing with Christ, and set about it, as he can, seriously, heartily, & willingly, yea and resolutely over the belly of much opposition, and many discouragements, looking to Him, who must help, yea and work the whole work: for God worketh in and with Man, as a rational creature. The soul than would set the willingness it findeth on work, & wait for more; and as the Lord is pleased to commend, by his Spirit, the way of grace more unto the soul, and to warm the heart with love to it and a desire after it, strick the iron while it is hot; and looking to Him for help, gripe to Christ in the covenant: and so set to its seal, though with a tembling hand; and subscribe its name, though with fear and much doubting, remembering that He who worketh to will, must work the deed also Phil. 2: 13. and He that beginneth a good work will perfect it, Phil. 1: 6.  
9 The soul essaying thus to believe, in Christ's strength, and to creep when it can not walk or run, would hold fast what it hath attained, and resolve never to recall any consent, or half consent, it hath given to the bargain, but still look forward, hold on, wrestle against unbelief, and unwillingness; entertain every good motion of the Spirit for this end, and never admit of any thing, that may quench its longings, desires, or expectation.  
Nay 10. If the sinner be come this length, that with the bit willingness he hath, he consenteth to the bargain, & is not satisfied with any thing in himself, that draweth back, or consenteth not, & with the little skill or strength he hath is writing down his name, and saying even so I take Him. and is holding at this, peremptorily resolving, never to go bake, or unsay what he hath said; but on the contrare, is firmly purposed to adhere, &, as he groweth in strength, to grippe more firmly, and adhere to Him, he may conclude, that the bargan is closed already, and that he hath faith already: for, here there is an accepting of Christ on his own terms, a real consenting unto the covenant of grace, though weak, and not so discernible, as the soul would wish. The soul dar not say, but it loveth the bargain, and is satisfied with it, and longeth for it, and desireth nothing more than that it might partake thereof, and enjoy Him whom it loveth, hungereth for, panteth after, or breatheth, as it is able, that it may live in Him, & be saved through Him.  
But Some will say, If I had any evidence of God's approbation of this act of my soul, any testimony of his Spirit, I could then with confidence say, that I had believed & accepted of the covenant and of Christ offered therein: but so long as I perceive nothing of this; how can I suppose, that any motion of this kind in my soul, is real faith?  
For answer. 1. We would know, that our believing, and God's sealing to our sense are two distinct acts, and separable, and oft separated: our believing is one thing, and God's sealing with the holy Spirit of promise to our sense, is another thing; and this followeth though not inseparably the other Eph. 1: 13.— In whom also, after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise.  
And so, 2. We would know, that Many a man may believe, & yet not know that he doth believe; He may set to his seal, that God is true, in his offer of life through jesus, and accept of that offer as a truth, and close with it; and yet live under darkness & doubtings of his faith, long & many aday; partly through not discerning the true nature of faith; partly through the great sense and feeling of his own corruption and unbelief; partly through a mistake of the operations of the spirit within, or the want of a clear & distinct uptaking of the motions of his own soul; Partly because he findeth so much doubting and fear, as if there could be no faith, where there were doubting or fear, contrare to Mark. 9: 24. Mat. 8: 26. & 14: 31. Partly because he hath not that persuasion, that others have had, as if there were not various degrees of faith, as there is of other graces, & the like.  
Therefore 3. We would know, that many may really believe, and yet miss this sensible sealing of the Spirit which they would be at: God may think it not yet seasonable to grant them that, lest they forget themselves and become too proud; and to train them up more to the life of faith, whereby He may be glorified; and for other holy ends, He may suspend the giving of this for a time.  
4. Yet we would know, that all that believe, have the seal within them 1. john. 5: 10. He that believeth on the Son of God, hath the witness in himself▪ that is, He hath that which really is a seal, though he see it not, nor perceive it not; even the work of God's spirit in his soul▪ inclining and determineing him unto the accepting of this bargan, & to a liking of & endeavouring after holiness: and the whole gospel clearing up what faith is, is a seal & confirmation of the business. So that the matter is sealed, and confirmed by the word, though the soul want those sensible breathe of the Spirit, shedding abroad his love in the heart, and filling the soul with a full assurance, by hushing all doubts and fears to the door; yea though they should be a stranger unto the Spirits witnessing thus with their spirits, that they are the children of God, and clearning up distinctly the real wot●… of grace within their soul, and so saying in effect, that they have in truth believed.  
But enough of this, seeing all this and much more is abundantly held forth and explained, inthat excellent & useful treatise of Mr. Guthries' entitled The Christians great interest.   

CHAP. V. How Christ is to be made use of, as the Way, for Sanctification, in general.  
HAving shown how a poor soul, lying under the burden of sin & wrath, is to make use of jesus Christ, for righteousness & justification, and so to make use of Him, go out to Him, and apply Him, as He is made of God to us righteousness 1. Cor. 1: v. 30. and that but briefly; this whole great business being more fully, and satisfactoryly handled, in th●…t fore mentioned great, though small Treatise, vix The Christians great Interest. We shall now come and show, how a believer or a justified soul shall further make use of Christ, for Sanctification, this being a particular, about which, they are ofttimes much exercised and perplexed.  
That we may therefore, in some weak measure, through the help of His light and grace, propose some things to clear up this great and necessary truth, we shall first speak a little to it, in the general, and then come to clear up the matter more particularly.  
Before we speak of the matter in general, it would be remembered, first, That the person who only is in case to make use of Christ for Sanctification, is one, that hath made use of Him already for Righteousness & justification: for one who is a stranger to Christ▪ and is living in nature, hath no access to Christ for sanctification. He must be a believer and within the covenant, ere he can make use of the grounds of sanctification, laid down in the covenant. One must first be united to Christ, and justified by faith in Him, before he can draw any virtue from Him for perfecting holiness. He must first be in Him before he can grow up in Him, or bring forth fruit in Him. And therefore the first thing that souls would go about, should be to get an union made up with Christ, and be clothed with his righteousness by faith▪ and then they have a right to all his benefits: first they should labour to get their state changed from enmity, to peace & reconciliation with God, through faith in Jesus.  
Yet, next, it would be observed. That when it is said, that one must be a believer, before he can go to Christ, & make use of Him for▪ holiness & sanctification; it is not so understood, or said. That one must know, that indeed he is justified by faith▪ before he can make any use of Christ for sanctification. One may be justified, and a believer, yea and growing in grace through jesus Christ, and so actually improving the grounds of sanctification, and making use of Christ for this end, and allowed thereunto, and yet win to no certainty, o●… his union with Christ, of his justification through faith in Him▪ no●… of his faith.  
But thirdly, if it be said, How can a soul with confidence approach to Christ, for usemaking of Him, in reference to sanctification, that is still doubting of his state and regeneration? I answer▪ It is true, a clear fight of our interest in Christ by faith, would be a great encouragement to our confident approaching to, and usemaking of Him, in all things; and this consideration should mo●…e all, to a more earnest search & study of the marks & evidences of their Interest▪ a good help whereunto they will find in the forementioned book. I shall only say this here. That if the soul, have an earnest desire, t●… be sanctified wholly, and to have on the image of God, that he may glorify Him▪ and panteth after holiness, as for life, that he may look like Him, who is holy▪ & maketh this his work and study; sorrowing at nothing more than at his short coming; crying out and longing for the day, when he shall be delivered from a body of death, and have the old man wholly crucified; he needeth not question his interest in Christ▪ & warrant to make use of Him, for every part of sanctification: for this longing desire after conformity to God's law, and panting after this spiritual life to the end God may be exalted, Christ glorified, & other●… edified; will not be readily found, in one that 〈◊〉 yet in nature. It is true, I grant, some who design to establish their own righteousness; and to be justified by their own works & inherent holiness, may wish, that they might be more holy and less guilty: and for some other corrupt ends, they may desire to be free of the power of some lust▪ which they find noxious & troublsome; and ye●… retain with love and desire, some other beloved lusts; and so have a heart still cleaving to the heart of some detestable thing or other: But gracious souls, as they have respect to all the commands of God; so they have not that design of being justified before God by their works; nor do they study mortification, or sanctification for any such end▪ nay, they no sooner discover any by as of their false deceitful hearts unto any such end, but as soon, they disowne it, and abhor it. So that hence believers may get some discovery of the reality of their faith, and interest in Christ, and of their warrant, yea & duty to make use of Christ for sanctification.  
T●…s premised, we come to speak some thing, in the general, of believers usemaking of Christ, as made of God to us Sanctification: and for this end, we shall only speak a little to two things, first we shall show, upon what account it is, that Christ is called our sanctification, or made of God to us sanctification, as the Apostle's phrase is 1. Cor. 1: 30. or what Christ hath done, as Mediator, to begin, & carry on to perfection, the work of sanctification in the soul. And secondly, How the soul is to demean itself in this matter, or how the soul is to make use of, & improve, what Christ hath done, for this end, that it may grow in grace▪ and perfect holiness in the fear of God.  
As to the first, we would know, that though the work of sanctification be formally ours; yet it is wrought by another hand, as the principal efficient cause; even by the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. The Father is said to purge the branches, that they may bring forth more fruit john. 15: 1. 2. hence, we are said to be sanctified by God the Father, jud. verse. 1. The Son is also called the sanctifier Heb. 2: 21. He sanctifieth & cleanseth the Church, with the washing of water by the word Ephes. 5. ●…6. The Spirit is also said to sanctify 2. Thes 2: 13. 1 Pet. 1: 2. Rom. 15: 16. Hence we are said to be washed & sanctified by the Spirit of God 1 Cor. 6: 11.  
But more particularly, we are said to be sanctified in Christ. 1. Cor. 1. 2. and He is made of God to us sanctification 1 Cor. 1. 30. let us then see, in what sense this may be true: and  
1 He hath by his death & blood procu●… that this work of sanctification shall be wrought, & carried on: for he suffered without the gate, that He might Sanctify the people with his own blood Heb. 13: 12. we are saved by the washing of regeneration, & renewing of the holy ghost, which He shed on us abundantly, through jesus Christ our Saviour Tit. 3: 5, 6. He gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works. Tit. 2: 14. Thus our sanctification is the fruit of his death, & purchased by his blood●… He gave himself for his church, that he might sanctify it Ephes. 5: 25, 26.  
●…, He dying as a cautioner & public person, believers are accounted in law to be dead to sin, in Him. Hence the Apostle tells us, Rom. 6: 3▪ 4, 5, 6. that as many of us as are Baptised into jesus Christ were Baptised into his death; and that therefore we are buried with Him by baptism into death; and are planted together in the likeness of his death; yea and that our old man is crueified with Him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that hence forth we should not serve sin: whence believers are warranded & commanded vers. 11. to reckon themselves to be dead indeed unto sin: and therefore sin should not reign in their mortal bodies to fulfil the lusts thereof vers. 12. This is a sure ground of hope & comfort for believers, that Christ died thus, as a public person; and that by virtue thereof, being now united to Christ by faith, they are dead unto sin by law; and sin cannot challenge a dominion over them, as before their conversion it might have done, and did; for the law hath dominion over a man, as long as he liveth▪ but no longer: wherefore believing brethren, becomeing dead to the law by the body of Christ, are married to another, even to Him, who is raised from the dead, that they should bring forth fruit unto God Rom. 7: 1, 4.  
3. Hence It followeth, that our old man is crucified with Christ, that the body of sin might be destroyed Rom. 6: 6. So that this old tyrant, that oppresseth the people of God, hath got his death's wounds, in the crucifixion of Christ, & shall never recover his former vigour & activity, to oppress & bear down the people of God, as he did: He is now virtually, through the death of jesus, killed, & crucified, being in Christ, nailed to the cross.  
4. His resurrection is a pawn & pledge of this sanctification: for, as He died as a public person, so He rose again as a public person: we are buried with Him by baptism, that likeas Christ was raised up from the dead, by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. Rom. 6: 4. and believers are said to be planted together with him, in the likeness of his resurrection verse. 5. and they shall live with Him. vers. 8. and therefore they are to reckon themselves, alive unto God, through jesus Christ our Lord, verse. 11. we are raised up together Ephes. 2: 6.  
5. This sanctification is an article of the covenant of redemption, betwixt the Father & the Son Esa. 52: 15. so shall he sprinkle many nations: & Cap. 53: 10. He shall see his seed, and the pleasure of the Lord shall prosper in his hand. Christ then having this promised to Him, must see to the accomplishment thereof, and will have▪ it granted to him; seeing He hath fulfilled all that was engaged to by Him, having made his soul an offering for sin.  
6. This sanctification is promised in the covenant of grace. jer. 33. 8. & I will cleanse them from all their iniquity Ezech 37: 23.— and I will cleanse them. So Chap. 36: 25. Then will I sprinkle clean water upon you, & ye shall be clean, from all your filthiness, & from all your idols will I cleanse you. Now all the promises of the covenant of grace are confirmed to us in the Mediator: for in Him all the promises are yea & amen 2. Cor. 1: 20.  
7. He hath also purchased & made sure to his own, the new nature, and the heart of flesh▪ which is also promised Ezech. 36: 26. & 11. 19 jer. 32. 39 This is the new & lively principle of grace, the spring of sanctification, which cannot be idle in the soul▪ but must be emitting vital acts natively.  
Yea, through Him, are believers made partakers of the divine nature, which is a growing thing; young glory in the soul. 2. Pet. 2: 3, 4. According as his divine power hath given unto us all things, that pertain unto life & godliness, through the knowledge of Him, that hath called us to glory & virtue whereby are given unto us exceeding great & precious promises, that by these you might be partakers of the divine nature. etc.  
8. The Spirit is promised, to cause us walk in his statutes Ezech. 36: 27. Now all these promises are made good to us in Christ, who is the cautioner of the covenant: yea He hath gotten now the dispensing and giving out of the rich promises of the covenant, committed unto Him; so as He is the great Lord treasurer and administrator of the great & glorious purchased blessings.  
9 There are new waterings, breathe, & gailes of the Spirit, given in Christ. Esai. 27: 3. He must water his garden or vinyaird every moment. This is the north wind, & the south wind that bloweth upon the garden Cant. 4: 16. He must be as the dew unto Israel. Host 14: 5.  
10. Through Christ is the believer brought into such a covenant state, as giveth great ground of hope of certain victory. He is not now under the law but under grace; and hence inferreth the Apostle Rom. 6: 14. That sin shall not have dominion over them. Being now under that dispensation of grace, whereby all their stock, is in the Mediators hand▪ & at his disposal; and not in their own hand & power, as under the covenant of works, there is a sure ground laid down for constant supply & furniture, in all necessities.  
11. Christ hath prayed for this. john. 17. 17. Sanctify them through thy truth. where the Lord is praying, that his disciples might be more & more sanctified, and so fitted & qualified for the work of the ministry, they were to be employed in. And what He prayed for them, was not for them alone▪ but also for all the elect, proportionably, who are opposed to the world, for which He did not pray v. 9  
12. He standeth in relation to believers of a Vine, or a Root, in which they grow as branches, so that by abiding in Him, living by faith in Him, and drawing sap from him, they bring forth fruit in Him john. 15: 1, 2, 4, 5. Their stock of grace is in Him, the root; and He communicate●…h sap and life unto his branches, whereby they grow, flourish, and bring forth fruit to the glory of God.  
13. Christ hath taken on Him the office of a Prophet and Teacher, to instruct us in the way, wherein we ought to go: for He is that great Prophet, whom the Lord promised to raise up, and who was to be heard and obeyed in all things Deut. ●…8: 15. Act. ●…. 2●…. and 7: 37. He is given for a witness & a leader. Esai. 55: 4. and we are commanded to hear Him Mat. 17: 5. Mark. 10: 7.  
14. He hath also taken on Him the office of a▪ King Psal. 2: 6. Mat. 21: 5. Esai. 9: 6, 7. Phil. 2: 8. 9, 10, 11. and thereby standeth engaged to lubdue all their spiritual enemies, Satan & corruption: Psal. 110. He is given for a leader and commander. Esai. 55: 4▪ and so can cause his people walk in his ways.  
15. When we defile ourselves with new transgressions & failings. He hath provided a fountain for us to wash in: a fountain opened to the house of David & to the Inhabitants of jerusalem for sin & for uncleanness Z●…ch. 13: 1. and this fountain is his blood which cleanseth from all sin Heb. 9: 14. 1. john. 1: 7▪ Revel. 1: 5.  
16. He is set before us, as a copy & pattern●… that we should walk even as He walked 1. joh. 2▪ 6. He left us an example, that we should follow his steps 1. Pet. 2: 21. But we would beware to separate this consideration from the preceding, a●… Antichristian Socinians do, who will have Christ only to be a copy.  
17. He hath overcome Satan our arch-enemy▪ and hath destroyed his works. 1. john. 3▪ 8. He came to destroy the works of the devil. And in particular his works of wickedness in the soul▪ Thus He is a conqueror, & the Capta●…e of our Salvation.  
18. As He hath purchased, So hath He appointed ordinences, for the laying of the foundation, and carrying on of this work of sanctification●… both Word & 〈◊〉 are appointed for this end▪ The Word to convert and to confirm▪ john. 17: 17. sanctify them through thy truth, thy word is truth, said Christ. The word is given as the rule; and also through the means thereof is life and strength conveyed to the soul, to perfect holiness in the fear of God 1. Pet. 2: 2. And the Sacraments are given to strengthen & confirm the soul in the ways of God.  
19 As He hath laid down strong encouragements to his followers, to hold on in the way of holiness, many great & precious promises, by which they might be partakers of the divine nature. 2. Pet. 1: 4. and by which they are encouraged to cleanse themselves from all filthiness of the flesh & spirit 2. Cor. 7: 1. and many motives to hold on & continue; So hath He rolled difficultyes out of the way, whether they be within us, or without us, and thereby made the way easy, and pleasant to such as walk in it; so as they may now run in the way of his commandments, & walk & not weary, & run & not be faint.  
Nay 20 we would remember, for our encouragement and confidence, that in carrying on of this work lieth the satisfaction of soul, & the pleasure of the Lord, that must prosper in His hand, & thus He seeth his seed, & hath of the travail of his soul, and is satisfied.  
These particulars rightly considered will discover unto us, what a noble ground for sanctification▪ is in Christ laid down for believers, which they may, and must, by faith, grippe to, that they may grow in grace, and grow up in Christ▪ and perfect holiness; and what a wonderful contriveance of grace this is, wherein all things are made so sure for believers; Christ becomeing all things to them, and paveing a royal & sure way for them▪ sure for them, and glorious to himself.  
As to the second particular; that is, How believers are to carry in this matter, or how they are to make use of Christ, and of those grounds of sauctification, in Christ, which we have mentioned.  
First, There are some things which they would beware of, and guaird against: as,  
1. They would beware of an heartless despondency, & giving way to discouragements, and harkening to the language of unbelief, or to the suggestions of Satan, whereby he will labour to persuade them of the impossibility of getting the work of sanctification throughed, or any progress made therein to purpose. Satan & a deceitful heart can soon muster up many difficultyes, & allege that there are many Lions, many insuperable difficultyes, in the way, to discourage them from ventureing forward: and if Satan prevail here, he hath gained a great point. Therefore the believer would keep up his head in hope, and beware of multiplying discouragements to himself, or of concludeing the matter impossible; for than shall he neither have heart nor hand for the work, but sit down & wring his hands, as overcome with discouragement, & despondency of Spirit.  
2. They would beware of wilful rejecting their own mercies, and forbearing to make use of the grounds of hope of strength and progress, in the matter of sanctification, which Christ hath allowed them to make use of. There is such an evil even amongst God's children, that they scar at that which Christ out of great love hath provided for them, and dar not with confidence make use of nor apply to themselves, the great and comfortable promises, to the end they might be encouraged: they will not take their allowance, as thinking themselves unworthy; and that it should be presumption in them to challenge a right to such great things; and they think it commendable humility in them, to stand aback; and so wilfully refuse the advantages and helps, that make so much for their growth in grace.  
3. They would beware of a careless neglect of the means, appointed for advancing in holiness: for though the means do not work the effect, yet it is by the means, that God hath chosen to work the work of sanctification: Here that is to be seen, that the hand of the diligent maketh rich; and the field of the slothful is soon grown over with thorns and nettles; so that poverty cometh as one that traveleth, and want as an armed man. Prov. 24: 30, 31, 34. It is a sinful tempting of God, to think to be sanctified another way, than God hath in his deep wisdom condescended upon.  
4. Yet they would beware of laying too much weight on the means & ordinances; as if they could effectuate the business. Though the Lord hath thought good to work in and by the means; yet He himself must do the work. Means are but means, and not the principal cause; nor can they work, but as the principal agent is pleased to make use of them, and to work by them: when we lean to the means, and to instruments, we prejudge our selves; by disobligeing God, and provoking Him to leave us, that we may wrestle with the ordinances alone, and find no advantage. Therefore the soul would guaird against this.  
5. Albeit the means can do nothing unless He breathe, yet we would beware not only of neglecting them (as we said afore) but also of a slighting way of performing of them, without that earnestness and diligence, that is required. Cursed is he who doth the work of the Lord negligently. jer. 48: 10. Here then is the special art of Christianity apparent, to be as diligent, earnest, and serious in the use of the means, as if they could effectuate the matter, we were seeking; and yet to be as much abstracted from them, in our hopes and expectation, and to be as much leaning on the Lord alone, and depending on Him for the blessing, as if we were useing no means at all.  
6. They would beware of slighting and neglecting the motions of the Spirit: for thereby they may lose the best opportunity. They should be always on the wing, ready to embrace the least motion; and they should stand always ready, waiting for the breathe of his Spirit, and open at his call; lest afterward, they be put to call and seek, and not attain what they would be at, as we see in the Spouse Cant. 5: 2, 3, 4. 5, 6. etc.  
7. They would also guaird against the quenching of the Spirit 1 Thes. 5: 12. or grieving of the Spirit. Ephes. 4: 30. by their unchristian & unsuitable carriage: for this will much mar their sanctification. It is by the Spirit that the work of sanctification is carried on, in the soul: and when this Spirit is disturbed, and put from his work▪ how can the work go on? When the motions of this indwelling Spirit are extinguished, his work is marred, and retarded: and when He is grieved, he is hindered in his work. Therefore souls would guard against unbelief, despondency, unsuitable & unchristian carriage etc.  
8. Especially they would beware of wasteing sins Psal. 51: 10. Sins against light and conscience; such as David calleth presumptuous sin●…. Psal. 19: 13. They would beware also of favouring any known corruption, or any thing of that kind, that may hinder the work of sanctification.  
Secondly. It were useful and of great ad●…antage, for such as would grow in grace, and advance in the way of holiness, to be living in the constant conviction▪  
1. Of the necessity of holiness, without which no man shall see God Heb. 12: 14. nothing entering in into the new jerusalem, that defileth. Revel. 21: 27.  
2. Of their own inability to do any one act aright; how they are not sufficient of themselves to think any thing, as of themselves 2 Cor. 3: 5. and that without Christ, they can do nothing john. 15: 5.  
3. Of the insufficiency of any humane help, or means, or way, which they may think good to choose, to mortify aright one corruption; or to give strength for the right discharge of any one duty▪ for our sufficiency is of God 2. Cor. 3: 5. and it, i●… through the Spirit that we must mortify the deed●… of the body Rom. 8: 13.  
4. And of the treachery and deceitfulness of the heart, which is bend to follow by ways▪ being not only deceitful above all things, but also desperately wicked, jer. 17: 9  
That by this means the soul may be jealous of itself, and despair of doing any thing in its own strength; and so be fortified against that main evil, which is an enemy to all true sanctification, viz confidence in the flesh.  
Thirdly. The soul would keep its eye fixed on those things.  
1. On Christ's alsufficiency to help, in all cases, that He is able to save to the uttermost. Heb. 7: v. 25.  
2. On his compassionednesse to such as are out of the way; and readynesse to help poor sinners, with his grace and strength: and this will keep up the soul from fainting and dispaireing.  
3. On the commands to holiness: such as those cleanse your hands, and purify your hearts jam 4: 8. and be ye holy for I am holy 1 Pet. 1: 15, 16. and the like. That the authority of God, and conscience to a command, may set the soul a work.  
4. On the great recompense of reward, that is appointed for such as wrestle on, and endure to the end; and on all the great promises of great things to such, as are sanctified, whereof the Scriptures are full; that the soul may be encouraged to run thorough difficultyes, to ride out storms, to endure hardness, as a good soldier, and to persevere in duty.  
5. On the other hand▪ on the many sad threatenings and denunciations, of wrath, against such as transgress his laws; and on all the sad things that such as shake off the fear of God, and the study of holiness, have to look for, of which the Scripture is full; that by this means, the soul may be keeped in awe, and spurred forward unto duty, and made the more willing to shake off Leazynesse.  
6. On the Rule, the word of God; by which alone we must regulate all our actions; and this aught to be our meditation day and night, and all our study, as we see it was Davids▪ and other holy men of God their daily work. See Psal. 1. and 119.  
Fourthly, In all this study of holiness, and aimeing at an hiegher measure of grace, the believer would lavell at a right end: and so would not design holiness for this end, that he might be justified thereby, or that he might thereby procure and purchase to himself heaven and God's favour for the weight of all that, must lie on jesus Christ, who is our Righteousness: and our holiness must not dethrone Him, nor rob Him of his glory, which He will not give to another: But would study holiness, to the end, he might glorify God, Father, Son, and holy Spirit; and please Him, who calleth to holiness; and thereby be made meet to be partaker of the Inheritance of the saints in light Col. 1: 10, 12. and be made a meet bride for such a holy bridegroom, and a member to such an holy head: that hereby others might be edified Mat. 5: 16▪ 1. Pet. 2: 12. and 3: 1, 2. that the soul may look like a temple of the holy ghost, and like a servant of Christ's, bought with a price 1 Cor. 6: 17, 18, 10. 20. And have a clear evidence of his regeneration and justification, and also that he may express his thankfulness to God, for all his favours and benefits.  
Fiftly. The soul would by faith lay hold on, and grip fast to the ground of sanctification: that is to say. 1. To what Christ hath purchased for his people. 2. To what as a public person He hath done for them: And so by faith,  
1. Challenge a right to, and lay hold on the promises of grace, strength, victory, and throwbearing, in their combating with corruption within, and Satan and a wicked world without.  
2. Reckon themselves dead unto sin, through the death of Christ; and alive unto God through his resurrection, Rom. 6: 4, 11. and that the old man is crucified with Him, that the body of sin might be destroyed verse. 6. and that they are now, not under the law, but under grace, vers. 14.  
That by this means, they may be encouraged to continue fight against a vanquished enemy, and not give over, notwithstanding of disappointments, discouragements, prevailings of corruption, etc. and the believer may know upon what ground he standoth, and what is the ground of his hope and expectation of victory in end; and so he may run, not as uncertanely; and so fight, not as one that beateth the air 1 Cor. 9: 26.  
Sixtly. In this work of sanctification, the believer would be much in the lively exercise of faith; fight by faith; advance by faith; grow up, and bring forth fruit by faith: and so▪  
1. The believer would be oft renewing his grips of Christ, holding Him fast by faith, and so abideing in Him, that he may bring forth fruit john. 15: 4, 5.  
2. Not only would he be keeping his union fast with Christ, but he would be also eyeing Christ by faith, as his store house, and general Lord dispensator of all the purchased blessings of the Covenant, which he standeth in need of: and looking on Christ, as standing engaged by office, to complete his work of salvation; and to present him with the rest to himself holy, without blemish, yea and without spote or wrinkle or any such thing Ephes. 5: 27.  
3. He would by faith gripe to the promises, both of the general stock of grace, the new heart & heart of flesh, and the Spirit to cause us walk in his statutes Ezech. 36: 26, 27. and of the several particular acts of grace, that he standeth in need of, such as that jer. 30: 8. I will cleause them from all their iniquities etc. so Ezech. 36: 25: jer. 31: 19 as the Church doth Micah. 7: 9 He will subdue our iniquities etc. And so having, or gripping these promises, we are to cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of flesh & Spirit, and perfect holiness in the fear of God. 2 Cor. 7: 1.  
4. As the believer would by faith draw out of Christ, through the conduit of the promises, which are all yea & amen in Him, 2 Cor. 1. 20. grace, strength, knowledge, courage, or what ever his fight in this warfare calleth for, to the end, he may be strong in the Lord and in the power of his might, Ephes. 6: 10. So he would by faith roll the weight of the whole work upon Christ; and thus cast himself, and his care and burden on Him, who careth for him, 1 Pat. 5: 7. Psal. 37: 5. & 55: 22. and so go on in duty, without anxiety▪ knowing who beareth the weight of all, and who hath undertaken to work both to will and to do, according to his good pleasure: thus should the work be easy and saife, when by faith we roll the burden on Him, who is the chosen one, fitted for that work; and leave it on Him, who is our strength, patiently waiting for the outgate, in hope.  
Thus the believer makes use of Christ, as made of God Sanctification, when in the use of means appointed, eyeing the covenant of grace, and the promises thereof, and what Christ hath done to Sanctify and cleanse his prople, he rolleth the matter on Him, and exspecteth help, salvation & victory, through Him.  

CAUTIONS.  
But least some should be discouraged, and think all this in vain, because they perceive no progress, nor growth in grace, for all this, but rather corruption as strong and troublesome as ever, I would say a few things to them.  
1. Let them search and try, whether their short-coming and disappointment doth not much proceed from this, that the matter is not so cleanly cast over on Christ, as it should be: Is it not too oft found, that they go forth to the battle in their own strength, lippening to their own stock of grace, to their own knowledge or to their duties, or the like? How then can they prosper?  
2. Let them mourn, as they get any discovery of this; and guaird hereafter against that corrupt by as of the heart, which is still inclining them to an engadgment, without the Captane of their salvation, and a fight without the armour of God.  
3. Let them try and see, if in studying holiness, they be not led by corrupt ends: and do not more labour after sanctification, that they may be more worthy, and the better accepted of God, and that they may have quietness and peace as to their acceptance with God, as if this were any cause, matter or condition of their righteousness and justification before God; then that they may show their obedience to the command of God 1 Thes. 4: 3. Ephes. 2: 10. joh. 15: 16. and express their thankfulness to Him, and glorify God Mal. 1: 6. Mat. 5: 16. john. 17: 10. Ephes. 4: 30. and if so, they ought to acknowledge God's goodness in that disappointment, seeing thereby they see more and more a necessity of laying aside their own righteousness, and of betaking themselves to the righteousness of Christ, and of resting on that alone, for peace and acceptance with God.  
4. They would try and see, if their negligence and carelessness in watching, and in the discharge of duties, do not occasion their disappointments & shortcomeing. God sometimes thinks fit to suffer a lion of corruption to set on them, that they may look about them, and stand more vigilantly upon their watch tour, knowing that they have to do with a vigilant adversary, the devil, who as a roaring lion goeth about, seeking whom he may devour 1 Pet. 5: 8. and that they fight not against flesh & blood; but against Principalities, against powers, against the Rulers of the darkness of this world▪ against spiritual wickedness in high places. Ephes. 6: 12. It is not for nought, that we are so often commanded to watch Mat. 24: 42. & 25: 13. & 26: 41. & 14: 38. Luk. 21: 36. Mark 13: 33, 34, 35, 37. 1 Cor. 16: 13. 1 Thes. 5: 6. 1▪ Pet. 4: 7. Col. 4: 2. through the want of this, we know what ●…efell David and Peter.  
5. They would try and see, whether there be not too much self confidence, which occasioned Peter's foul fall: God may, in justice and mercy, suffer corruption to break loose upon such, at a time, and tread them underfoot, to learn them afterward to carry more soberly; and to work out their salvation with fear & trembling Phil. 2: 12. remembering what a Jealous holy God He is, with whom they have to do; what an adversary they have against them; and how weak their own strength is.  
6. This would be remembered, that one may be growing in grace, and advancing in holiness, when to his apprehension, he is not going forward from strength to strength, but rather going backward. It is one thing to have grace, and another thing to see that we have grace: so it is one thing to be growing in grace, and nother thing to see that we are growing in grace. Many may question their growth in grace, when their very questioning of it may evince the contrary: for they may conclude no growth, but rather a back going, because they perceive more and more violent, and strong corruptions, and hidden works of darkness and wickedness, within their souls, than ever they did before; while as that great discovery, showeth the Increase of their spiritual knowledge; and an increase in this is an increase in grace. So they may question and doubt of their growth, upon mistakes▪ as thinking corruption always strongest, when it makes the greatest stir & noise; Or their complaints may flow from a vehement desire they have to have much more sanctification, which may cause them overlook many degrees they have advanced: or some such thing may occasion their darkness and complaints; yea God may think it fittest for them, to the end they may be keeped humble and diligent, to be in the dark as to their progress; whereas if they saw, what advancement & progress they had made in christianity, they might grow wanton, secure, and careless, and so occasion some sad dispensation to humble them again.  
7. It would be remembered, that perfect victory is not be had here: it is true, in respect of justification, through the imputation of the perfect righteousness of Christ; and in respect of their sincerity and gospel simplicity, and in respect also of the parts of the new man, believers are said to be perfect; Such an one was Noah Gen. 6: 9 and job. Cap. 1: 1, 8. see also Psal. 37: 37, and 64: 4. 1 Cor. 2: 6. Heb 5: 14. jam. 3: 2. And it is true, we are to aim at perfection▪ and to pray for it, as Mat. 5: 48. 2. Cor. 13: 11. Col. 4: 12. Heb. 13. 21. jam. 1: 4. 1. Pet. 5: 10. Heb. 6: 1. Yet as to the degrees of holiness▪ & sanctification, and in respect of the remnant of corruption within, there is no full perfection here. job. 9: 20, 21. Phil. 3: 12. for even he who is washen, and as to justification, is clean every whit, yet needeth to wash his feet, because contracting filth, in his conversation joh. 13: 10. So that if the Lord should mark iniquity, no man should stand. Psal. 130: 3. & 143: 2. There will still be in the best something, more or less; of that battle, that Paul speaketh of Rom. 7: 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23. So that they will still have occasion to cry out with him vers. 24. O! wretched man that I am, who shall deliver●…e from the body of this death? And the flesh will still lust against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh, so that they shall not be able to do what they would Gal. 5: 17. The place of perfection is above, where all tears are wiped away, and the weary wreastler is at rest.  
8. Let them not mistake, and think, that every stirring of corruption in the soul, argueth its dominion and prevailing power. Corruption may stir and make a great deal ado, where it cannot get leave to reign; and be as a violent and cruel invader, seeking the throne, putting the whole kingdom in a combustion, who is resisted with force of arms. Corruption may be more quiet and still, when indeed it hath the throne of the soul: as a conqueror may be more quiet and still, when he hath overcome, and is in peaceable possession of the kingdom, than when he was but fight for it: when the strong▪ man keeps the house, and is Master, than all is quiet, and at rest, till a stronger come to thrust him out, and dispossess him.  
9 Sanctification doth not always consist, in a man's freedom from some corruptions: for there may be some corruptions, that one hath no natural inclination to; but, o●… the contrary, a great aversation from: as some world's wretches, may have no inclination to prodigality, and ranting, or such like vices, which are contrary to their humour, or to their constant education: and Satan may ●…ever tempt some man to such evils▪ knowing he wi●… get more advantage, by plying his temper and genius, and so carrying him away to the other contrary evil; and so, though this man know not so much, as what it is once to be tempted to those vices, yet that will not say, that he is a sanctified man; far less will it say, that he hath more grace than another man, whose predominant that evil is, and against which he is daily fight and wreastling. Whence it appeareth, that wreastling, and protesting against even an overcoming corruption, may evidence more of grace, than freedom from some evils, to which some are not so much tempted, and to which they are naturally less inclined.  
10. Nor should they think, that corruption is always master of the soul, and possessing the throne as a full conqueror, when it prevaileth and carrieth the soul headlong, at a time: for corruption may sometimes come in upon the soul as an inu●…dation, with irrestible violence, and, for a time, carry all before it; so that the soul cannot make any sensible resistance; as when a sudden, violent and unexpected temptation setteth on, so as the poor Man is overw helmed, & scarce knoweth where he is, or what he is doing, till he be laid on his back: at that time, it will be a great matter, if the soul dar quietly enter a protest against, and descent from what is done: and if there be an honest protestation against the violent & tyrannical invasion of corruption, we cannot say, that corruption is in peaceable possession of the throne: if the Spirit be lusting against the flesh, levying all the forces he can▪ against the invader, by prayer and supplication to God, and calling-in all the supply of divine help he can get, and when he can do no more, is sighing and groaning under that unjust invasion, resolving never to pay homage to the usurper, no●… to obey his laws, nor so much as parley with him, or make peace, we can not say, that the soul doth consent▪ fully unto this usurpation: Nay, if the soul shall do this much, at such a time▪ when Satan sets on with all his force, it will be a greater evidence of the strength of grace in the soul, than if the soul should do the same or alittle more, at a time, when the temptation is not so strong.  
11. It is not good for them to say, that grace is not growing in them, because they advance not so far, as some do; and because they come not to the pitch of grace, that they see some advanced to: That is not a sure rule to measure their growth in grace by. Some may have a better natural temper, whereby they are less inclined to several vices, which these find a strong propension to; they may have the advantage of a better education, and the like. So that they should rather t●…y themselves this year, by what they were the last year, and that in reference to the lusts, to which they have been most subject, all their days.  
12. We must not think that every believer will attain to the same measure of grace: there is a measure appointed for every member, or joint of this body; and every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every p●… Ephef. 4: 16. God hath more a do with som●…●…han with others: there is more strength required 〈◊〉 an arm or leg, than in a finger or toe. And ev●… one should be content with his measure, so 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 ●…ot to fret or repine against God, and his dispen●…tions, that makes them but a finger, and not 〈◊〉 arm of the body; and do their duty in their station, fight against sin, according ●…o the measure of grace dispensed to them of the Lord, and th●…●…aithfully & constantly; and not quarrel with God, ●…hat He maketh us not as free of temptations and corruptions, as some others: for the Captane must ●…ot be blamed for commanding some of his soldiers to this post, where they never once see the enemy; and others to that post, where they must continually fight: the soldier is here under command, and therefore must be quiet, and take his lot▪ so must the Christian reverence the Lords dispensa●…tions, in ordering matters, so as they shall never ●…ave one hours' quietness, whileas others have more rest and peace; and stand at their post fig●…ting, resolving never to yield, but rather to cover the ground with their dead bodies, till the Commander in chief think good to relieve them. Su●…●… am, as the only wise God hath distributed to eve●…y member of the body, as He hath thought good▪ so it is the duty of every member, to endeavour this holy submission to Him, as to the measure of gra●…▪ considered as His free gift, bestow●…d on them: ●…nd to be humbled for the grudge of his heart▪ 〈◊〉 God hath not given him moe talents? 〈◊〉 sure I am, though this submission make no 〈◊〉 ●…oise in th●… world; yet really this is one of 〈◊〉 ●…ghest degrees of grace attaineable here, and 〈◊〉 a●… ornament of a m●…ek and quiet Spirit, 〈◊〉 it in 〈◊〉 sight of God of great price; So that who ever hath 〈◊〉 to this; have the very grace they seem to 〈◊〉, and more. Yet le●…t this should be 〈◊〉, l●… me add a word or two of c●…ution, to 〈◊〉 this submission. 1. There must be with it an 〈◊〉 pri●…ing even of that degree of grace, which they want. 2. There must be a panting after grace, as it is God's image, and a conformity to Him▪ and that with so much singlness, as they may be in ●…ase to say, without the reproachings of their heart, they do not so much love holiness for heaven, a●…, heaven for holiness. 3. There must be an uncessantness in useing all means, whereby the growth o●… grace may be promoved, to this end, that they may be comformed to His image▪ rather than that they may be comforted. 4. There must be also a deep humiliation for the want of that degree of grace they would have, as it importet●… the want of so much conformity to Him, to whose image they are praedestinated to be conform, which will very well consist with this submission, we are speaking of●…▪  
13. It would be remembered, that there may be a great progress, even when it is not observed, when, 1. Hereby the man is made to lie in the dust, to loathe himself, and cry, behold I am vile▪ 2. Hereby his indignation against the body of death is the more increased. 3. Hereby his esteem of a Saviou●… an●… of the blessed contrivance of Salvation is the 〈◊〉 hi●…ghtned, that he seeth he is thereby brough●… to make mention of His righteousness, even o●… 〈◊〉 only. 4. Hereby his longing after 〈◊〉 fr●…ition is increased, where all these complain●… shall cease. 5. And hereby he is put to 〈◊〉 that much slighted duty of holding fast the rejoy●…ing of his hope firm unto the end, looking 〈◊〉 longing for the grace, that shall be brought unto him, at the revelation of jesus Christ, when he shall be presented without spot, and made meet to be ●… partaker of the inheritance of the saints in light.    

CHAP. VI How Christ is to be made use of, in reference to th●… k●…lling and crucifying of the old man.  
HAving thus shortly pointed out something●…▪ in general, serving to the clearing and opening up the way of our usemaking of Christ for sanctification, we come now more particularly to the clearing up of this business. In sanctification we must consider First the renewing and changing of our nature and frame: and next the washing and purging away of our daily contracted spots. The first of these is commonly divided into two parts▪ viz. 1. The mortification, killing and crucifying of the old man of sin and corruption, which i●… within; and 2. The vivification renewing, quickening and strengthening of the new man of grace, and this is a growth in grace, and in fruitfulness & holiness.  
As to the first of these viz the mortification 〈◊〉 crucifying of the old man, we would know, th●… there is such a principle of wickedness and enmi●…▪ against God, in man by nature now, since the fall, whereby the man is inclined to evil, and only to evil. This is called the old man, as being, like the body, made up of so many parts, joints and members▪ that is, so many lusts & corruptions and evil inclinations, which together make up a corpus, and they are f●…st joined and compacted together as the members of the body, each useful and serviceable to another, and all of them concurring and contributing their utmost to the carrying on of the work of sin▪ and so it is the man of sin and it is also called the old man, as ha●…ing first possession of the soul, before it is by grace renewed; and is ●… dying more and more daily. Thus it is called the old man, and the body of sin Rom. 6: 6. This old man hath his members in our members & fa●…cultyes, so that none of them are free, understanding, will, affections, and the members of our body are all servants of unrighteousness to this body of sin, and old man. So we read of the motions of sin Rome 7: 5. which work in our members to bring for●… fruit unto death: and of the lusts of the flesh Rom. 13: 14. Gal. 5: 16, 24. and the lusts of sin Rom. 6: 12. So we hear of the desires of the flesh, and of the mind Ephes. 2: 3. and of affections and lusts Gal. 5: 24. And the old man is said to be corrupt, according to the deceitful lust●…. Ephes. 4▪ 22. all which lusts and affections are as so many members of this body of sin, and of this old man. And further, there is herein considerable a power, force and efficacy, which this old man hath in us, to carry us away, and, as it were, command us, o●… constrain us▪ as by a forcible law. Hence we read of the law of sin and death Rom. 8: 2▪ which only the law of the Spirit of life in Christ doth make 〈◊〉 free from. It is also called a law in our mem●…rs warring against the law of our mind Rom. 7: 23. and bringing us into captivity to the law of sin, which is in our members. So it is said to lust against the Spirit and to war. Gal. 5: 17 All which point out the strength, activity and dominion of sin in the soul; so that it is as the husband over the wife Rom. 7: 1. yea it hath a domineering and constraineing power, where its horns are not held in by gr●…e. And as its power is great, so its nature is wicked & malicious; for it is pure enmity against God Rom. ●…: 7. so that it neither is, nor can be reconciled, 〈◊〉 therefore must be put off, and abolished Ephes. 2: 15. killed & crucified Rom. 6: 6. Now herein lieth the work of a believer, to be killing, mortifying and crucifying this enemy, or rather enmity; and delivering himself from under this bondage and slavery, that he may be Christ's free man, and that through the Spirit. Rom. 8▪ 13.  
Now if it be asked, how shall a believer make life of Christ, to the end this old man may be gotten crucified: or how should a believer mortify th●… Old man, and the lusts thereof, through Christ, or by the Spirit of Jesus? We shall propose thos●… things which may help to clear this.  
1. The believer would have his eye on this old man, as his arch enemy, as a deadly cutthroat, lying within his bosom. It is an enemy ludging within him, in his Soul, Mind, Heart and Affections, so that, there is no part free; and therefore is acquaint with all the motions of the soul, and i●… always opposeing, and hindering every thing that is good, It is an enemy, that will never be reconciled to God, and therefore will not be reconciled with the believer, as such; for it is called enmi●…y itself: and so it is actively always seeking to promove the ruin of the soul, what by prompting, inclineing, moving and forceably drawing or driveing, (sometimes with violence and rage) to evil; what by withstanding resisting, opposeing, counter working, and contradicting what is good; so that the believer can not get that done, which he would do; and is made to do that, which he would not. Therefore this being such an enemy, and so dangerous an enemy, so constant and implacable an enemy, so active▪ and close an enemy, so deadly and destructive; it is the believers part, to guaird against this enemy, to have a vigilant eye upon it, to carry as an irreconcilable enemy thereunto; and therefore never to come in terms of capitulation, or agreement, therewith, never o●…ce to parley, let be, make peace. And the believer would not have his vigilant eye upon this or that Member of this body of death, so much as upon the Body itself, or the Principle of wickedness and rebellion against God; the Head, Life, Spirit or Law of this body of death: for there lieth its greatest wickedness, and activity: and this is always opposeing us though not in every joy at and member; but sometime in one, sometime in another.  
2. Though the believer should have a main eye upon the Body, this innate, strong and forcible law of sin and death; yet should he have friendship and familiarity with no part, member or lust of all this body: all the deeds of the body should be mortified, Rom. 8: 13. the old man with his deeds should be mortified Col. 3: 6. & we should mortify our members, which are upon the earth, verse. 5. for all of them are against us, & the least of them countenanced, entertained & embraced, will work ou●… ruin, & cut our souls throat; therefore should the believer look on each of them, & on all of them, as his deadly enemies.  
3. He would consider, that as it is a very unseemly thing for him, to be a slave to that old tyrant, and to yield his members, as so many servants to iniquity; so it is dangerous & deadly: his life lieth at the stake: either he must get it mortified, killed & subdued, or it will kill him: his life will go for its life: if this enemy escape, he is a gone man. The consideration of this would cause the beleeve●… act here in earnestness and seriousness, with care and diligence; and set about this work of mortification, with labour and pains.  
4. Much more must it be against all reason and christianity, for the believer to be making provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof, Rom. 13: 14. To be strengthening the hands of, and laying provision to this enemy, which is l●…t & sworn against us, can stand with no reason. And here is much of the christians prudence & spiritual wisdom required, to discern, what may make for fostering of this or that corruption, or member of the body of sin & death, and to withdraw that, as we will labour to take away provision of any kind, from an enemy, that is coming against us: Paul acted herein, as a wise gamester, & combatant, when he kept under his body, & brought it into subjection 1 Cor. 9: 27. It were but to mock God, & to preach forth our own folly, to be looking to Christ for help against such an enemy, and in the mean time, to be underhand strengthening the hands of the enemy: this would be double dealing and trearchery against ourselves.  
5. To the end, their opposition unto this enemy may be the stronger and more resolute, they would consider, that this body of sin is wholly set against God, & his interest in the soul, being very enmity itself against God Rom. 8: 7. and always losting and fight against the work of God in the soul Gal. 5: 17. & against every thing that is good, so that it will not suffer (so far as it can hinder) the soul to do any thing that is good, at least in a right manner, and for a right end: nay, with its lustings it driveth constantly to that which is evil, raiseth evil motions & inclinations in the soul, ere the believer be aware: sideth with any tentation that is off●…ed, to the end it may destroy the soul, like a traitor within; as we see it did in David, when he fell in adultery; and with Asaph Ps. 73: 2. yea itself opposeth and tempteth jam. 1: 14. by setting mind, will & affections, on wrong courses: and thus it driveth the soul to a course of rebellion against God, or diverts it and draws it back, that it cannot get God served aright; yea sometimes it sets a fire in the soul entangling all the faculties, filling the mind with darkness or prejudice, misleading or perverting the affectious, and so miscarrying the will, & leading it captive Rom. 7: 23. so that the thing is done, which the regenerate soul would not do, and the duty is left undone which the soul would fain have had done: yea, and that sometimes notwithstanding of the souls watching, and striveing against this; so strong is its force.  
6. The believer would remember that this enemy is not for him to fight against alone, and that his own strength and skill will make but a slender opposition unto it: It will laugh at the shaking of his spear: it can easily insinuate itself, on all occasions, because it lieth so near & close to the soul, always resideing there, and is at the believers right hand, whatever he be doing, and is always openly or closely, opposeing, and that with great facility: for it easily besetteth Heb. 12: 1. because it lieth within the soul, & in all the faculties of it, in the Heart, Mind, Will, Conscience & Affectiones; so that upon this account, the deceitfulness of the heart is great, & passeth the search of Man jer. 17: 9 Man cannot know all the windeings and turnings, all the drifts and designs, all the lurking and retireing places, all the falsehoods and double dealings, all the dissimulations, lies and subterfuges, all the plau●…ible and deceitful pretexts and insinuations of this heart, acted and spirited by this law of sin and death. And beside this slight and cunning, it hath strength and power to draw, by lusts, into destruction and perdition 1 Tim. 4: 9 and to carry the soul headlong. So that it makes the man's case miserable Rom. 7: 24. All which would say, that the believer should call in other help than his own, and remember, that through the Spirit he must mortify the deeds of the body. Rom. 8: 13.  
7. And therefore the believer must lay aside all his carnal weapons, in dealing with this adversary; and look out for divine help & assistance, even for the promised Spirit, through which alone he can be instructed & enabled for this great work; for of himself he can do nothing, not so much as think a good thought as of himself 2 Cor. 3: 5. fa●… less will he be able to oppose such a mighty adversary, that hath so great & many advantages, and therefore all his carnal means, purposes, vows, & fightings in himself, will but render himself weaker, & a readyer prey unto this adversary, which gaineth ground while he is so opposed. It is Christ alone and his Spirit, that can destroy the works of the devil, and kill or crucify this enmity.  
8. So that the believer must have his recourse, for help and succour here, unto jesus the Captain of salvation; and must follow Him, and fight under his b●…nner, make use of his weapons, which are spiritu●…ll; fight according to his counsel and conduct, taking Him as a leader & commander▪ & lying open for his orders & instructions: waiting for the motions of his Spirit. & following them: and th●…s oppose & fight against this deadly enemy, with an eye always on Christ by ●…aith, depending on Him, for light to the mind, resolution to the will, and grace to the whole soul, to stand in the battle; and to withstand all assaults, and never engage in a disput with this enemy, or any lust or member of this body, without Christ the Principal: that is, the soul would despair in itself, and be strong in Him, and in the power of his might, by faith gripping to Him, as Head, Captain and Commander in chief, resolving to fight in his strength, and to oppose, through the help of his Spirit.  
9 And for this cause, the believer would eye the covenant of Redemption, the basis of all our hope and consolation, wherein final and full victory is promised to Christ, as head of the elect, viz, that He shall bruise the serpent's head; and so that in Him, all his followers, and members of his mystical body, shall lift up the head, and get full victory at length over both sin and death. Now it is God, th●…t giveth us the victory, through our Lord jesus Christ, 1 Cor. 15▪ 57 The b●…leever would also eye by faith the covenant of Grace, where▪ in particularly this same victory is promi●…ed to the believer, in and through Jesus, Rom. 16: 20 & the God of peace shall br●…ise Satan under your feet shortly: and, Sin shall not have dominion over you, for ye are not under the law but under grace Rom. 6: 14. The believer, I say, would look out by faith unto, and lay hold on, these and the like promises; and thereby get strength conveyed to him. self, whereby he may strive lawfully, and fight valiantly, and oppose with courage and resolution.  
10. Further, the believer would eye Christ as a fountain of Furniture, as a full and complete magazine, standing open, & ready for every one of his honest soldiers, to run to, for new supply of what they want: so that whatever they find wanting in their Christian armour, they must run away to the open magazine, Christ's fullness, that standeth ready for them; and by faith take & put on what they want & stand in need of, in their warfare. If their girdle of truth be slacked, loosed or weakened, and they be meeting with temptations anent their hypocrisy, and Satan objecting to them their double dealing, of purpose to discourage them, and to make them faint & give over the fight; they must away to Him, who is the Truth that He may bind on that girdle better, and make their hearts more upright before God, in all they do. And if their breast plate of righteousness be weakened, & Satan there seem to get advantage, by casting up to them their unrighteous dealings towards God or Men, they must flee to Him, who only can help here, and beg pardon through his blood, for 〈◊〉 failings, and set to again a fresh to the battle. If their resolution, which is understood by the preparation of the gospel of peace, grow weak, it must be renewed in Christ's armoury, and the feet of new be should therewith. If their shield of faith begin to fail the●…, away must they get to Him, who is the Author & finisher of faith Heb 12: 2. And if their helmet of hope begin to fail them, In this armoury alone can that be supplied. And if their sword be blunted in their hand, or they unable to wield it aright, the Spirit of Jesus can only teach their hands to fight, and instruct them how to manage that useful weapon with advantage. Thus must the believer be strong in Him, and in the power of his might Ephes. 6: 10. He is their God that girdeth them with strength and maketh their way perfect. He maketh their feet like hind's feet, & setteth them upon their high places. He teacheth their hands to war, so that a bow of steal is brocken by their arms. He giveth them the shield of Salvation. His right hand upholdeth them. He girdeth with strength unto the battle, etc. Psal. 18: verse. 32, 33, 34, 35, 39 etc.  
11. For the further strengthening of their Hope, Faith & Confidence, believers would eye Christ, as hanging on the cross▪ and overcomeing by death, Death and him that had the power of death, the Devil; & so as meritoriously purchaseing this redemption from the slavery of sin and Satan; and particulary, from the slavery of that body of death, and of the law of sin & death: for the Apostle tells us Rom. 8: 2▪ that the law of the Spirit of life in Christ jesus, doth make us free from the law of sin and death, and that because, as he sayeth further vers. 3, 4. what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin condemned sin in the flesh. That the rig●…▪ teousnesse of the law might be fulfilled in us. So that the believer may now look upon that enemy, how fearful so ever it appear, as condemned and killed▪ in the death of Christ. He, having laid down the price of Redemption, hath bought this freedom from the chains & fetters, with which he was held in captivity: faith then on the death of Jesus, satifying justice, for the poor captive, may & should support, and strengthen the hope & confidence of the believer, that he shall obtain victory at length.  
12. And it will further confirm the hope and faith of the believer, to look to Christ hinging on the cross, and there vanquishing and evercomeing this 〈◊〉, as a public person, representing the elect, who died in him, and virtually and legally did, in him, overcome that Jailor, and break his fetters: and the soul now believing, may, yea should, reckon itself, in Christ, dying, as it were, upon the cross; and there overcomeing all those spiritual enemies: likewise, sayeth the Apostle Rom. 6: 11. Reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin. From hence, even while fight, the believer may account himself a conqueror, yea more than a conqueror, through Him that loved him▪ Rom. 8: 37. Now faith acting thus on Christ▪ as a public person, dying and overcomeing death and sin, the believer may not only inferte the certainty of victory, knowing that our old man is crucified with Christ Rome 6: 6. but also from the cross of Christ draw strength to stand, & fight against the struggle of this vanquished and killed enemy. They that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections & lusts, Gal. 5: 24. But how? even by the cross of Christ, for thereby is the world crucified unto me (sayeth the Apostle Gal. 6: 14.) & I unto the world: your old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, Rom. 6: 6.  
13. The believer, being dead indeed unto sin, through the cross of Christ, is to look upon himself as legally freed from that yock of bondage under sin & death. The law hath dominion over a man, so long as he liveth Rom. 7: 1. but by the body of Christ, believers are become dead to the law, verse. ●…▪ That law of sin & death, which hath dominion over a man, that liveth still in nature, and is not yet by fai●…h planted in the likeness of Christ's death, no●… buried with him by baptism into death Rom. 6: 4, 5. hath not that dominion over believers, it had once: for the law of the Spirit of life in Christ jesus hath made them free from the law of sin & death Rom. 8: 2. So that now the believer is free from that tyranny; and that tyrant can exerce no lawful jurisdiction or authority over him, and therefore he may with the greater courage repel the insolences of that tyrant, that. contrare to all right and equity, seeketh to Lord it over him still. They are no lawful subjects to that cruel and raging Prince, or to that spiritual wickedness.  
14. So that the believer renunceing that jurisdiction, under which he was formerly, and being under a new husband, and under a new law▪ even the law of the Spirit of li●…e in Christ jesus▪ is to look upon all the motions of sin as illegal, and as treasonable acts of a tyrant. The old man being crucified with Christ, that the body of sin might be destroyed, the believer is not any more to serve sin Rom. 6: 6. And being now dead they are freed from sin verse. 7. and are married to another, even to Him, who is raised from the dead, & so they should not serve sin, but bring forth fruit unto God Rom. 7: 4. & therefore look upon all motions of the flesh, and all the inclinations and stir of the old law of sin, as acts of treachery and rebellion against the right and jurisdiction of the believers new Lord & Husband; and are therefore obliged to lay hold on this old man, this body of death, and all the members of it, as traitors to the rightful King▪ & Husband, and to take them prisoners to the King, that He may give out sentence, and execute the same, against them, as enemies to his kingdom and interest in the soul: They being now no more servants of sin, but of righteousness Rom. 6: 18. they ought no more to yield their members servants to uncleanness & iniquity, un●…o iniquity verse. 19 and being debtors, no more to the flesh, to live after the flesh Rom. 8: 12. they are to mortify the deeds of the body through the Spirit vers. 13. and to crucify the flesh with the affections & lusts Gal. 5: 24. that is, by bringing them to the cross of Christ, where first they were condemned and crucified, in their full body and power; that a new sentence, as it were, may go out against them, as parts of that condemned Tyrant, and as belonging to that crucified body.  
15. So that the believer, that would carry faithfully in this matter, and fight lawfully in this warfare, and hope to obtain the victory, through Jesus Christ, must bring these Traitors, that appear in their sinful motions, and lusts in the soul, working rebellion against the lust authority, and equitable laws of the lawful Prince, jesus, before the tribunal of Him, who hath now goat all power and authority, in heaven and earth. Mat. 28: 18. and hath all judgement committed to Him. joh. 5: 22. And to this end, both died and rose, & revived, that he might be Lord both of the dead and living Rom. 14: 9 that He may execute justice upon the T●…aitor, head and members, that He may tr●…mple these devils under, and bruise the head of these serpents within us. The believer than is, by faith in prayer, to carry these open enemies to Christ, and declare and witness against them as Traitors, by what mischief they have done in the soul, by their hindering the righteous laws of the king to be obeyed; and constraining & forcing, what by arguments or allurements, and what by forceable inclinations and pousing, to disobedience and a counteracting of Christ; and he should urge and plead, upon the fundamental laws of the land, viz the articles of agreement betwixt the Father and the Son; and the faithful promises of the Covenant of grace; and upon Christ's office as King, and Governor, and his undertaking as Mediator; upon the merits of his death and sufferings; upon his dying as a common person; upon the constitution of the gospel, whereby they are in law repute as dying in him, and so free from the law of sin and death; and upon their relation to Him as their new Lord, Head▪ Husband, King▪ Commander etc. Upon these arguments (I say) to plead for justice against the rebel, that is now brought to the bar, and so by faith leave the prisoner in His hand, that He may, in his own time, and way, give a second blow unto the neck of this implacable and raging enemy, that he may no●… rise up to disturb the peace of the soul, as before; or to trouble, impede, and molest the soul in paying the homage and obedience due to his lawful Master and Sovereign King Jesus.  

Cautions & Directions.  
For further clearing of the premises, I would propose a few particulars, for caution & direction: as,  
1. This work of laying the burden of this business on Christ by faith, would be gone about, with much singleness of heart, aimeing at the glory of God, and the carrying on of his work in the soul: and not for self ends, and carnal by 〈◊〉 respects, lest thereby we mar all.  
2. It would be carried on, without partiality, against all and every one of the lusts, and motions of the Old man: for if there be a compliance with and a spareing of any one known lust, the whole work may be marred, they may meet with a disappointment, as to the particular lust, they a●… desiring victory over: and the lust they are harbouring, though it may seem little, may open a door to many stronger; and so occasion sad days to the man, ere he be aware.  
3. As they would bring the particular lust, or lusts, unto Christ, as chief Lord justice; so they would always lay the axe to the root of the tree; and crave justice against the main body, that yet lieth within the soul; and these particular corruptions and affections, that are as members of that body of sin, should put them in mind of the old man; for they should crucify the flesh with the affections and lusts thereof Gal. 5: 24. the body and the members: these lusts are the lusts of sin▪ or of that Head-sin, which hath a law, or the force and impulse of a law, in the soul: and therefore, their main design would be against this root, where lieth the strength and body of the enemy, and which acteth in those members; this is the capital enmity, and should be mainly opposed: and the following of this course, would prove more successful, than that which many a time we take: out nibbling at or wreastling against this or that member of the body of death, is but of little advantage▪ so long as the main body of sin, the bitter root of wickedness, the carnal mind, this innate enmity, is miskent, and not opposed: but on the contrary strike at this, we strick at all.  
4. This would be the believers constant work, to be crucifying the flesh, with the lusts thereof; to be mortifying their members, wherein the members of the old man quarter and lodge▪ Colos. 3: 5. to be spiritually minded, and to mind the things of the spirit Rome 8: 5, 6. for this carnal mind is enmity against God Rom. 8: 7. and so is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. It is not only an enemy, which may be reconciled; but enmity, in the abstract, which never can be reconciled: and this enmity will never be idle, for it c●…nnot, till it be fully and finally destroyed: the flesh is always lusting against the Spirit Gal. 5. 17. for they are contrary one to the other. So that though, to our sense, it may sometimes appear as sleeping, in regaird that it doth not by some particular lust so molest and perplex the soul, as formerly it did; yet it is restless, and may be more active in another lust; and so by changing weapons upon us deceive us. Here then is much spiritual wisdom and vigilancy required; when they think they have gotten one lust subdued, they must not think the war is at an end; but after all their particular victories, watch and pray, that they enter not into temptation.  
5. This way of laying the weight of the matter on Christ, should and will keep them humble, and teach them not to ascribe the glory of any good that is done unto themselves, but to give Him all▪ the glory, who is jealous of his glory and will not give it to another, that the crown may alone flourish on his head, who is the Captane of their salvation, and who by his Spirit worket●… all their works in them.  
6. Nor would this way of carrying the matter to Christ, and putting it over on Him, cause the believer become negligent in commanded duties, reading, hearing, prayer etc. for it is there he must expect to meet with Christ, there must he seek Him, and there must he wait for Him, and his Spirit, to do the work desired: for though He hath not limited himself to these means, so as He cannot, or will not, any other way help; yet He hath bound us to them; and it is our duty to wait there, where He hath commanded us ●…o wait, though He should sometime ●…hink good to come another way, for the manifestation of the sovereignty of hi●… grace.  
7. Yet while we are about the means, we would guaird against a le●…ning to them, lest in stead of getting victory over corruption, we be brought more in bondage thereunto, another way: we must not think, that our Prayers, or our Hearing or Reading etc. will bring down the body of death, or subdue any one corruption: for that were but an yielding to corruption, and opening a back door to the carnal mind, and to another deadly lust, and a beating corruption with a sword of straw: This is not to mortify the deeds of the body through the Spirit, but through the flesh; and a fleshly weapon will never draw blood of this spiritual wickedness, or old man; or of any corrupt lust or affection thereof: and yet how many times doth our deceitful heart by as us thi●… way? Our work would be, as is said, to use the ordinances, a●… meanc●…▪ whereby we may get the business laid on Christ, and help from Christ to do the b●…sinesse. We must go to the means with our prisoner to find Christ there at his court, and a●…ifes; that He may take course with the Traitor.  
8. In all this there would be a looking to, and dependence on Christ for help and grace: because of ourselves, as of ourselves, we can not do this much; we cannot complean aright of corruptions, nor take them away to Christ, not ask for justice against them: a●… constable●…▪ and other officers must carry malefactores to the courts of justice, u●…on public charges; so Christ will not have us doing or attempting this m●…ch, on our own charges: for He giveth noble allowance.  
9 In following of this course, we would not think always to come speed at the first. Sometimes the Lord, for the encourageing of his children, may give them a speedy hearing, and deliver them from the tyranny of some particular lust or other, that hath troubled them; that for some time, at least, it sh●…ll not so trouble them, as it did. Yet He will not do so always; but may think it good, to keep them waiting on Him, and hanging on his courts, for so●…e considerable time, that He may thereby exercise their Faith, Patience, 〈◊〉, 〈◊〉, and Diligenc●…▪ So that it should not seem strange to us, if we be not admitted a●… the first, and get▪ not our answer, at the first cry.  
10. When the Lord thinketh good to delay the answer to our desires, and the execution of justice on the Malefactor & Traitor, or to deliver us from his tyranny and trouble, we would beware of thinking to capitulat with the enemy for our peace and quiet, or to enter into a ce●…lation of arms with him: that is, our ●…mity against him should never abate, nor should our desire after the mortification and crucifixion of this lust grow less; nor should we be quiet and at peace, though it should seem to grow a little more calm and still, or not to rage as formerly 〈◊〉 this looks but like a covenant or confedera●… 〈◊〉, which will not stand.  
11. We would also know, that w●…at Christ said of devils, holdeth good of these lusts▪ viz. Th●… some of them do not go out, but by fasting and prayer; that is, by Christ sought unto and found in these means. There are some lusts, that will not be goat so easily killed and mortified, as others; but will cost us more pains and labour, as being corruptions, which possibly have some greater advantage of our natural temper, and constitution of body, or of long continuance and a cursed habit, or the like. We must not then think it strange, if some such lust be not subdued, so easily as some others, to which we have fewer, and weaker, and not so frequent▪ temptations.  
12. As we cannot 〈◊〉 full conquest of the body of death, so long as we are here, as was shown above; so nor can we expect a full and final victory over any one lust, which ever we have been troubled with. It is true, Believers may be keeped from some gross outbreaking of a corruption, which sometime prevailed, as Peter was from relapseing into an open and downright denying his Master; yet that same corruption did afterward stir, though not so violently as to carry him to such an hieght of sin; yet so far as to cause him do that, which was a partial denying of his Master, when Paul withstood him to the face, because he was to be blamed, for withdrawing from the Gentiles, for fear of them of the circumcision &c▪ Gal. 2: 11, 12. So, though a particul●… 〈◊〉 be so far subdued through grace, as 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 considerable time, a man may not find it so violent, as it was; yet he cannot say, that it is totally killed, because it may stir thereafter in some weaker measure; yea he cannot tell, but ere he come to die, that same corruption may rise to be as violent as ever, and that Satan may again think to enter the soul, at that same breach, which once he entered at; yea, and who can tell, whether God may not suffer that corruption, which lay long as dead, to revive again, for a time, and for a time drive the soul as violently as ever, and prevail for a time? And this should teach all to walk soberly, watchfully, and in fear, and to have a vigilant eye, even upon such lusts and carnal affections, as they may suppose, they have goat the victory of.  
13. We would not think, that we gain no ground upon corruption, because we still perceive it stirring, less or more; for as corruption is not always strongest▪ (as was said above) nor hath the deepest footing in the soul, when its motions and stir are most felt; so nor must we think that there is no ground gained upon a lust, because we are still troubled and molested with its▪ stir: for it is a great advantage to be more sensible of the motions of this enemy; and our more faithful, and active wreastling against it, may make its least stir more sensible to us; as the motions and trouble, which a malefactor, while in grips & in prison, maketh, may be thought more of, than his greater rageing, before he was apprehended; yet he may be sure in fetters for all that: a beast that hath gotten death's blow may get out of grips and run more mad than ever, and yet will die at length of the same blow.  
14. Though we should not find present ease and quiet, by our following this way; yet we should think it much, if the Lord help us to stand, when we have done all we can; though we meet not with the hoped for success presently: If he give us grace to continue, without wearying or fainting, and to be resolute never to give over, we have reason to bless Him: if we be keeped still in the conflict with pursuit of the enemy, it is our great advantage; the victory shall come, in God's own time. If our opposition ●…o continue, that we are resolved never to take, nor give quarter, though our trouble and exercise should be the greater, and our ease and quiet the less, we ought to bless Him, yea and rejoice in hope of what He shall yet do for us. For He that will come shall come, and will not tarry. Let us wait for Him, in doing our duty, and faithfully keeping our post.  
15. Yea, if we get quietness or ease from the violence of raging lusts, for any little time; and be not continually driven and carried headlong therewith, we ought to be thankful for this, and to walk humbly before Him; lest He be provoked, through our unthankfulness and pride, to let these furious dogs lose upon us again.  
16. When we are bending our strength and all our forces against some one corruption or other, which possibly hath been most troublesome to us; we would not be secure as to all others; or think that we are in hazard only on this side: for Satan may make a saint here; and really intend a●… assault at another place, by some other corrupt affection. O What need have we of spiritual wisdom, that we may be better acquanted with his stratagems and wiles? Let us so then fight against one member of this body of death, as to have our eye upon others, lest when we think to keep out Satan at the fore door, he enter in at the back door. He can make use of extremities, and play his game, with both; yea, and gain his point, if we be not aware.   

Objections answered.  
It will not be amiss, for further explaining of the matter, to remove a scruple or two. Some may say. That they cannot perceive, that all their pains in this matter come to any good issue; for they never found corruption stir more, & act more lively and incessantly, than since they began to fight against it in earnest, So that this would seem not to be the right way.  
I answer: Though, from what is said before, particularly cautions 9th and 13th a resolution of this doubt may be had; yet I shall propose those things, for further clearing of the matter.  
1. May not much of this flow from thy not laying the whole work so wholly off thyself, and upon Christ, as thou oughtest to do? Try and see.  
2. May not the devil rage most, when he thinks ere long to be ejected? May he not labour to create most trouble to the soul, when he seeth that he is like to be put from some of his strengths▪  
3. May not the devil be doing this of purpose, to drive thee to despair, of ever getting corruption subdued and mortified; or to a fainting and ●…itting up in the pursuit; and to a despondency of spirit, that so in stead of fight or standing, thou may cede and turn the back? and should we comply with him in his designs?  
4. May not the Lord give way to this for ●… time, to try thy Seriousness, Patience, Submission, and Faith, and to sharpen thy diligence, and kindle up thy Zeal? And should we not submit to his wise dispensations?  
5. How can thou say, that thou gainest no advantage, as long as thou are not made to lay aside the matter wholly, as hopeless of any good issue; but on the contrary, art helped to stand, and to resist sin, to cry out against it, to fight as thou canst, and at least not to yield?  
6. What if God see it for thy advantage, that thou be keeped so in exercise for a time, to the end thou may be keeped Humble, Watchful and Diligent? He may see more of thee, than thou canst see of thyself: and so may know what is best for thee; and should thou not condescend to be disposed of by Him, as He will, and to let Him make of thee, and do with thee, what He will?  
7. What if God be about to chasten thee thus, for thy former Negligence, Secur●…y, and unwatchfulness, and giving too too much advantage to those lusts, which now, after his awakening of thee, thou would be delivered from? Should not thou bear the indignation of the Lord, because thou hast sinned against Him, as the Church resolved to do Micah. 7: 9  
8. Is it not thy duty, the more that corruption stir, to run with it the oftener to Christ, that He may subdue it, and put it to silence? May not thou improve this to advantage, by making many errands to Him?  
9 May it not come in a day, that hath not come in a year? Art thou sure, that all thy pains shall be in vain? Or thinks thou, that all his children have go●…e victory alike soon over their lusts? What cause is there then to complain thus?  
10. May not all this convince thee, that it is thy duty to wait on Him, in the use of his appointed means, and to be patient, standing fast to thy post, resolving, when thou hast done all, yet to stand?  
11. May not this satisfy thee, that God through grace accepteth thy labour and wreastling, as thy duty, and accounteth it service to Him, and obedience?  
But again, it may possibly be Objected thus▪ So long as I am in this condition, kept 〈◊〉 under with my lusts▪ I cannot get God glorified and served, as He ought to be.  
I answer, Though so long as it is so with thee●… thou cannot glorify and serve Him, in such a particular manner, as others, who have goat more victory over those evils, under which thou art groaning; yet God can get glory and service of thee another way; as,  
1. By thy Submission with calmness of spirit, to his wise dispensations, when thou dar not speak against Him, and say with Rebecca, in another case, if it be so, why am I thus? But sweetly and willingly casts thyself down at his feet, saying, good is the will of the Lord; let Him do what seemeth Him good etc.  
2. By thy Patient onwaiting, when thou are not wearying, nor fainting; but saying, why should I not wait upon the great king's leisure; Is He not free to come, when He will? Dane I set limits to the holy one of Israel?  
3. By thy Humility, when thou blesseth Him for keeping thee so long out of hell; and thinketh much of his giving thee grace to see, and observe the stir of corruption, which carnal wreatches never perceive; and helping thee to withstand, and complean of corruption, which they sweetly comply with.  
4. By thy Hatred of sin, when all that Satan can do cannot make thee comply with those lusts▪ or sweetly embrace those vipers, or lie down in peace with those rotten members of the old man, as others do.  
5. By thy Watchfulness; when all thy disappointments cause thee, the more earnestly, wat●… against that enemy▪  
6. By thy Acting faith; when still thou art carrying sin in its lusts to Christ to kill and subdue, as believing the tenor of the gospel, and 〈◊〉 covenant.  
7. By thy Hope, which appeareth by thy not despaireing and giving over the matter as a hopeless business, and turning aside to wicke●… courses.  
8. By thy Praying, when thou criest to H●…▪ continually for help, who only can help.  
9 By thy Wreastling and standing against all opposition, for thereby is his strength made perfect in weakness. 2. Cor. 12: 9  
10. By thine Obedience. For it is his command, that thou stand and fight this good fight of faith.  
So that if thou hast a desire to glorify Him, th●… wants not occasion to do it, even in this condition, wherein thou complainest, that thou cannot g●… Him glorified. And if those grounds do not satisfy thee, It is to be feared, that it is not so much ●… desire to glorify Him, that moveth thee to ●…y so earnestly, for actual delivery from the trouble of the flesh, and the lusts thereof, a●… some thing else, which thou may search after and find out, such as love to ease, quietness; applause and commendation of others, or the like.  
But in the Third place it may be objected, Is it not promised, that sin shall not have dominion over us, as not being under the law, but under grace? Rom. 6: 14. How can we then but be troubled, when we find not this promise made good?  
I Answer. 1. Sin is not always victorious and domineering, when it seemeth to rage and stir most; your opposition thereunto, fight and wreastling against it, sheweth that it hath not full dominion: So long as an invadeing ●…rper 〈◊〉 opposed, he hath not full dominion, not having peaceable possession of what he is seeking ●…d thus the promise is in pa●…t accomplished.  
2. Victory and a full conquest over the 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and the lusts thereof, is not promised to any believer, at his first appearing in the fields to fight, nor granted to all, in any measure, at their first putti●… on their armour.  
3. Therefore it is thy part to fight on, and wait for that full victory, viz that sin shall not have dominion over thee; for it shall come in due time.  
4. God hath his own time and seasons, wherein he accomplisheth his promises. And we must leave Him a latitude, both as to the time when, and as to the manner how; and as to the degree, in which, He shall make good his promises; and He is wi●…e in his dispensations.  
Therefore though the promise as yet appeareth not to be accomplished, there is no true cause of trouble of mind; because it shall be afterward fully accomplished; and thy wreastling against sin, sayeth that it is in a great measure accomplished already; because where it hath a full dominion, it suppresseth all opposition or contradiction, except some faint resistance, which a natural conscience, for carnal ends, on carnal principles & grounds, may, now or then, make against this or that particular corruption, which occasioneth shame, disgrace, loss, challenges of a carnal conscience, and disquietness that way, when yet it is not hated nor wreastled against as sin, or as a member of the old man▪ & the body of death. The objecter would consider, that having subjected his consent to Christ, he is delivered really from that natural state of bondage under sin as a lawful Lord, how be it the 〈◊〉, now wanting a tittle, is making 〈◊〉 v●…sions, to trouble the peace and quiet of the soul.  
Fourthly, It may be said. But what can then, in the mean time, keep up the heart of a poor soul from si●…king?  
Answer. Several things, if rightly considered, might help to support the soul, in this ●…ase, as  
1. That they are helped to wrestle against this body of death, in all the members of it, so soon, as they discover themselves, were it their right eye, and right hand.  
2. That those lusts gain not ground upon them; or if they do seem to gain ground; yet they attain not to a full dominion, not 〈◊〉 their consent.  
3. That God is faithful, and therefore the promised victory shall be had, in due time, and Satan's head shall certanely be bruised.  
4. That the wreastling soul is about his duty, carrying as a good soldier of Jesus Christ, fight the battles of the Lord, and waiting on Him in faith and hope.  
But further Fiftly, some may say. If I were keeped from yielding, my wrestling and standing would yield me some comfort; but when lust so stirreth, as that it conceiveth, and bringeth forth sin james 1: 15. what can support or comfort me then?  
Answer. 1. Corruption can not stir in us, but therein we sin, for the very first rise, the motus primo-primi, as they are called, are sinful, being contrare to the holy law of God: and the very inbeeing of that Old man, is our sin; for it is sinful and rebellious against God, yea it is very enmity & rebellion itself: when Satan cometh with a temptation from without, he findeth always much in us, to entertain the temptation. So that the very stirring of corruption, which is occasioned by the temptation from without, is ou●… guilt.  
2. It is true, it is our duty, ●…o set against the first risings and motions of corruption, when it first enticeth, before it hath conceived of brought forth sin: and it will argue grace in life and in action; to be able to hinder the motions of lust so far, that it shall not conceive and bring forth sin. Yet we may not say, that there is no grace in the soul, or no measure of Mortification attained, where lust sometimes not only enticeth, but conceiveth and bringeth forth sin. The sad experience of many of God's worthies, registrated in the word, cleareth this abundantly. We must not say, Such an one is fallen, Therefore he is dead. Paul reasoneth otherways Rom. 7.  
3. Yet even then, when lust conceiveth and bringeth forth sin, this may comfort and bear up the heart of a poor believer, 1. That though corruption prevail so far, as to bear down all opposition & run down all that standeth in its way; yet it getteth not the full consent of the soul, there is still a party for God, in the soul, that opposeth, so far as to protest against it, or at least, to descent from it, and not to will, that which yet is done, and positively to will that which cannot be gotten effectuated. 2. And farther this may bear up the poor soul, that there is a party within, which, though for a time, dureing the violent overrunning of corruption, can do little more than sigh & groan in a corner, yet is waiting & longing for an opportunity, when it may appear more for God, and against that wicked usurper. 3. So also this may comfort the poo●… soul, that as it perceiveth corruption stirring, and the old man moving one member o●… other, it runeth away to the king; and when it is not able to apprehend the Treator, & take him captive to the court of justice, doth there discover the Taitour, and tell the king, that there is such or such a traitou●…, acting such and such rebellion against Him, and his laws; and comple●…, and s●…k help to take the rebel prisoner, and bring him bound hand and foot to the King, that He may give out sentence against him; that is, when he can do no more against that raging enemy, maketh his complaint to the Lord, & lieth before Him, ●…ghing & groaning for help, & strength to withstand, and oppose more this enemy.  
Lastly some may yet Object & say, if it were not worse with me, than it is with others, I could then be satisfied: but I see some mightily prevailing over corruption, and I am still at under, and can get no victory: and can I choose but be sad at this?  
I Answer. 1. Dost thou know for a certan●…ty, that those persons, whose condition thou judgest happy, are altogether free of the inward stir of those lusts, that thou art brought under by? Or dost thou know for a certainty, that they are not under the power of some other corruption, as thou thinkest thyself under the power of that corruption, whereof thou compleanest? What knowest thou then, but they may be as much complaining, on other accounts, as thou dost on that?  
2. But be it so as thou supposeth, that thereiss a difference betwixt thy condition, and the condition of others, knowest thou not, that all the members of the body are not alike great and strong, as not being equally to be employed in works requireing strength? Are there not some young strong men, in Christ's family, & some that are but babe●…? May not a Captane send some of his soldiers to one post, where they shall possibly not see the enemy all the day long; and some others to another post, where they shall have no rest all the day? And why, I pray, may not God dispose of his soldiers as He will? He knoweth what He is doing: It is not saife, that every one of the soldiers know, what are the designs of the Commander or General; no●… is it always fit for us to know, or to inquire, what may be the designs of God with us, and what He may be about to do. He may intend to employ one in greater works than another, and so exercise them otherways for that warfare and work. It may suffice, that the prevailing of others may encourage thee to hope, that, at last, thy strong corruptions shall also fall by the hand of the same grace of God.  
3. If thy sadness ●…avoure not of envy & f●…etting, thou should bless Him, that hereby thou art put to the exercise of spiritual sorrow.  
4. It is well of this bring thee to bless God, for the success of others, because hereby his grace is glorified 1 Cor. 12: 26.  
Therefore 5. Let this satisfy us, that He is the Lord, who doth what He will in heaven and in earth; and may dispose of us, as He will; and make of us what He will, for his own glory. And that we are to mind our duty, and be faithful at our post, standing and fight, in the strength of the Lord, resolving never to comply with the enemy: and to rejoice in this, that the enemy is already conquered by the Captain, and that we share in his victory: and that the very God of peace shall quickly bruise Satan under our feet Rom. 16: 20.    

CHAP. VII. How Christ is to be made use of, in reference to Growing in grace.  
I Come now to speak a little to the other part of Sanctification, which concearneth the change of our nature and frame, and is called Vivification, or Quickening of the new man of grace: which is called the New man, as having all its several members and parts, as well as the old man; and called New, because posteriour to the other; and, after regeneration, is upon the growing hand▪ This duty of growing in grace, as it is called 2. Pet. 3. u●…t, is variously expressed and held forth to us in scripture: for it is called, an abideing and bringing forth fruit in Christ john. 15: 5. adding to faith virtue, and to virtue knowledge etc. 2 Pet. 1: 5, 6, 7. a going on to perfection Heb. 7: 1. a growing up in Christ in all things Ephes. 4: 15. a working out our salvation Phil. 2: 12. a perfecting of holiness 2. Cor. 7: 1. a walkeing in newness of life Rom. 6: 4. a yielding of ourselves unto God, as alive from the dead, and our members as instruments of righteousness unto God Rom. 6: 13, 18. a bringing forth of fruit unto God Rom. 7: 4. a serving in newness of spirit Rom. 7: 6. a being renewed in the spirit of our minds▪ and a putting on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness Ephes. 4: 23, 24. Col. 3: 10. and the like: some whereof do more immediately express the nature of this change, as to the root; and some as to the fruit, and effects thereof, and some the progress and advancement, that is made or to be made therein. And all of them point out a special piece of work, which lieth on all, that would see the face of God, viz. to be holy, gracious and growing in grace.  
This then being a special piece of the exercise▪ and daily work of a Christian and it being certain▪ as some of the places now cited do also affirm, that without Christ, they cannot get this work either begun o●… carried on, the main difficulty and question is, how they are to make use of Christ for this end?  
For answer whereunto, though, by what we have said in our former discourse, it may be easy to gather what is to be said here; yet I shall briefly put the Reader in mind of those things, as useful here.  
1. The Believer would consider, what an ornament this is to the soul, to have on this new m●…n, which is created after the image of God Ephes. 4▪ 23. what an excellency lieth here, to recover th●… lost glory, holiness and the image of God; and what advantage the soul reapeth hereby, when it is made meet to be a partaker of the inheritance of the Saints in light Col. 1: 12. and walking worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work▪ and increasing in the knowledge of God▪ Col. 1: 10. and strengthened with all might according to his glorious power, unto all patience and long suffering with joyfulness verse. 11. and when the abounding of the graces of the Spirit make them, that they shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord jesus Christ 2. Pet. 1: 8▪ and to be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master's use, and prepared unto every good work 2. Tim. 2: 21; what glory and peace is here, to be found obedient unto the many commands given to be holy? What hazard is in the want of holiness, when without it we cannot see God Heb. 12: 14. How unanswereable it is unto our profession, who are members to such a holy Head, to be un holy? What profit, joy and satisfaction there is, i●… being temples of the holy ghost, in walking after the spirit, in bringing forth fruit unto the glory of the Father, etc. The consideration of these and other motives unto this study of sanctification, would arm the soul with resolution, and harden it against opposition.  
2. It would be remembered, that this work, though it be laid upon us, as our duty, and we be called thereunto of God; yet it is beyond our hand and power: it is true, at conversion, the seed of grace is cast into the soul, new habits are infused, a new principle of life is given, the stonny heart is changed into an heart of flesh; yet these principles and habits can not act in themselves, or be brought into act, by any thing that a believer, considered in himself and without divine help, can do: But this work of sanctification, and grou●…h in grace▪ must be carried on by divine help▪ by the Spirit of Jesus, dwelling and working within; and therefore it is called the sanctification of the spirit 2. Thes. 2: 13. 1. Pet. 1: 2. The God of peace must sanctify us 1. Thes. 5: 23. We are said to be sanctifi●… by God the Father jud. 1. and by the holy ghost Rom. 15: 16. See also 1. Cor. 6: 11. We would remember, that of ourselves we can do nothing 2. Cor. 3: 5. and that He must work in us both to will and to do, of his own good pleasure Phil. 2: 13. Albeit no believer will question the truth of this; yet it may be, it shall be found after trial, that one main cause of their not growing in grace, and making progress in this work, is their not acting as believing this; but setting about the work, as if it were a work, which they themselves could master, and do, without special divine help: Therefore the believer would abide, live and act▪ in the faith of this truth.  
3. Therefore believers would not, in going about this work, either trust to their own strength, to the habits of grace, to their former experiences, to their knowledge and pairts, or the like; nor yet would they trust to any external means, which they are to go about: because the wisdom, strength and help, which their case calleth for, is not to be found in them: yet they should not think of laying these means and duties aside; for than should they sin against God, they should prejudge themselves of the help, strength and supply, which God useth to convey to the soul, in & by the use of the means: and withal▪ they should tempt the Lord, by prescribing another way to Him, than He hath thought good to take: The believer than would use the means and duties prescribed, and that diligently, se●…iously and constantly; and yet would lean as little to them, and expect help & relief as little from them▪ as if he were not useing them at all, as we said above. And indeed this would be a right way, yea the most advantageous and profitable way, of going about duties, to be diligent in the use of them, because of God's command; and yet to place out hope and expectation in God alone, and to look above the ordinances for our help.  
4. Albeit it be true, that the power and grace of God, alone, doth begin, and carry on this work of sanctification in the soul; yet, though he might, did He but see it for his glory, carry on and finish this work in the so●…l, without the intervention of second causes or means, he hath notwithstanding thought it fit, forth ●… glory of his name, to work this work, by means, and particulary by believers setting about the work: He worketh not in man, as if he were a block or a stone, but useth him as a rational creature, endued with a rational soul, having useful and necessary faculties▪ and having a body fitted by organs to be ●…ubservient to the soul, in its actions. Therefore the believer must not think to lie by and do nothing: for he is commanded to work out his own salvation, and that because it is God that worketh in him, both to will and to do: Because God worketh all, therefore he should work; so reasoneth the Apostle: so that God's working is an argument and motive to man to work, and not an argument to him to lie by idle, and do nothing. And here is the holy art & divine skill, requisite in this business, to wit, for the believer to be as diligent and active, as if he could bring forth fruit, in his own strength, and by his own working; and yet to be as abstracted from himself, his own grace, ability, knowledge and experience, in his working, as if he were lying by like a mee●… block, & only moving as moved by external force.  
5. The soul, that would make progress in Christianity, and grow in grace, would remember, that Christ is proposed to us, as a copy, which we are to imitate; and that therefore we should set Christ continually before us, as our pattern, that we may follow his steps. 1. Pet. 1: 15. and 2▪ ●…1. But with all, it would be remembered, that He is not like other ensamples or copies, that can help the man, that imitateth them, no other way than by their objective prospect▪ for looking by faith on this copy, will bring virtue to the man, that studyeth to imitate, whereby he shall be enabled to follow his copy the better. O 〈◊〉 we knew in experience, what this were, to take a look of Chr●…'s Love. Patience, Long suffering▪ Meekness, Hatred of sin, Zeal etc. and by 〈◊〉 to pore-in, till, by virtue proceeding from that copy, we found our hearts, in some measure, framed into the same disposition, or, at least, more inclined to be cast into the same mould!  
6. The believer would act faith on Christ, a●… the Head of the body, and as the stock, in which the branches are engrafted, and thereby suck sap and life and strength from Him▪ that he may work, walk and grow, as becometh a Christian. The believer must grow up in Him, being a branch in Him, and must bring forth fruit in Him, as the forementioned places clear. Now Christ himself tells us, that the branches cannot bring forth fruit, except they abide in the vine, and that no more can his disciples bring forth fruit, except they abide in Him. john. 15. Therefore, as it 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 faith, that the soul, as a branch, is united to Christ, as the vine; and as it is by faith, that they abide in Him; so is it by faith, that they must bring forth fruit: and this faith must grippe Christ as the Vine, and the Stock, or Root, from which cometh sap, life, and strength: faith then must look to Christ, as the fountain of 〈◊〉▪ as the head, ●…om whence cometh all the in ●…ces of strength and motion. Christ 〈◊〉 strength and life enough to give out, for the fullness of the God head dwelleth in Him bodily▪ and he is also willing enough to communicate of his fullness, as the relations He hath taken on do witness Th●… head will not grudge to give to the members of the body spirits, for action and motion; 〈◊〉 will a vine grudge to give sap unto the branches: ●…ay life, strength and furniture will (as it were) natively flow out of Christ unto believers, except they through unbeleef, and other distempers, cause obstructions; as life and sap doth natively and kindly flow from the root to the branches, of from the head to the members unless obstructions stop the passage▪ It is necessary therefore, that believers eye Christ under these and the like relations, and look upon Him, as standing (to speak so) obliged by his place and relation, to grant strength and influences of life, whereby they may become fruitful in every good work; and so with holy, humble and allowed boldness, press in faith for new communications of grace, virtue, strength, courage activity, and what else they need: for from the head all the body by joints & bands, having nourishment ministered, increaseth with the increase of God Col. 2: 19 Ephes. 4: 16.  
7. For this cause, believers would lie open unto the influences of Christ, and guaird against the putting of obstructions in the way, through grieving of the Spirit, by which He conveyeth & communicateth those influences unto the soul; and through questioning & misbelieving Christ's faithfulness, and unchangeable willingness, which as a violent humour stoppeth the passage. So then believers would lie open by looking, and waiting, drawing▪ seeking from Him, what they need, and by guarding against every thing, that may provoke the Lord to anger●…, whether in omission or commission. Here is requisite ●…n holy, humble, sober and watchful walk, an earnest, serious, and hungry looking out to Him, and a patient waiting for supply and furniture from Him. This is to open the mouth wide, that He may fill it; to lie before the sun of righteousness, that the beams thereof may beat upon them, & warm & revive them; and to wait as a beggar at this king's gate, till he give the alms.  
8. For the strengthening of their hope & faith in this, they would lay hold upon Christ dying, and by his death purchaseing all those influences of life and strength, which are requisite for carrying on of the work of grace and sanctification in the soul: for we must be blessed in Christ with all spiritual blessings. Eph. 1●…▪ 3. The believer than would look on these influences, as purchased at a dear rate, by the blood of Jesus Christ; so that the divine power giveth unto us all things, that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him, that hath called us to glory & virtue 2 Pet. 1: 3. And this will encourage the soul to wait on, and expect the flowing down of influences, and spiritual blessings, and showers of grace, to cause the soul to flourish, and become fruitful; and to urge and press more earnestly by faith the bestowing of the purchased benefits.  
9 Moreover, the believer would look on Jesus, as standing engaged and obliged to carry on this work, both as receiving them for this end, from the Father: hence we are said to be chosen in him, before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy etc. Ephes. ●…: 4. and a●… dying for them●… for He gave himself son the church, that He might sancti●…y & cleanse it, that He might present it to himself a glorious church, that it should be holy Ephes. 5: 25, 26, 27. He hath reconciled them, in the body of his flesh, through death to present them holy Col. 1: 21, 22. So that the noble 〈◊〉 of Redemption may found the 〈◊〉 hope and expectation of the believer, upon ●… 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. First upon the account of the Father's faithfulness, who promised a seed to jesus, Viz. such as should be his children, and so be sanctified through Him, and that the pleasure of the Lord, which in p●…rt i●… th●… work of sanctification▪ should prosper in his hand. And next upon the account of Christ's undertaking▪ and engaging▪ as is said, to b●…ing his son●… and daughters to glory, which must be through sanctification, for without holiness no man shall see God. And they must look like himself, who is a holy Head, a holy Husband, a holy Captane, and therefore they must be holy members, a holy spouse & holy soldiers. So that He standeth engaged to sanctify them by his Spirit and word; and therefore is called the Sanctifier. Heb. 2: 11. for both he that sanctifieth and they who are sanctified are all of one. Yea, their union with Christ layeth the foundation of this: for being joined to the Lord they become one Spirit 1 Cor. 6: 17. and are animated and quickened by one & the same Spirit of life and grace; and therefore must be sanctified by that Spirit.  
10. The believer likewise would act faith upon the promises of the new Covenant, of grace, strength, life, &c whereby they shall walk in his ways, have God's laws put into their minds, and write into their hearts, Heb. 8: 10. jer. 31: 33. and of the new heart, and new spirit, and the heart of flesh, and the Spirit within them to cause them walk in his ways or statutes, and keep his judgements and do them Ezech. 36: 26, 27. and the like, wherewith the scripture aboundeth: Because these are all given over to the believer, by way of Testament and legacy, Christ becoming the mediator of the new Testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions, that were under the first Testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance. Heb. 9: 15. No●… Christ by his death hath confirmed this Testament▪ for where a Testament is, there must also of necessity be the death ' of the testator, for a Testament is of force after men are dead vers. 16, 17. Christ then dying to make the Testament of force, hath made the legacy of the promises sure unto the believer, so that now all the promises are yea and amen in Christ 2 Cor. 1: 20. He was made a minister of circumcision to confirm the promises made to the Fathers Rom. 15: 8. That the eyeing of these promises by faith is a noble means to sanctification, is clear, by what the Apostle sayeth, 2 Cor. 7: 1. Having therefore these promises let us cleanse ourselves— perfecting holiness in the fear of God. And it is by faith that those promises must be received Heb. 11: 33. So that the believer, that would grow in grace, would eye Christ, the fundamental promise, the testator establishing the Testament, and the excutor or dispensator of the covenant, and expect the good things through Him and from Him, through the conduit, and channel of the promises.  
11. Yet further, believers would eye Christ i●… his Resurrection, as a public person: and so look on themselves, and reckon themselves, as rising virtually in and with Him, and take the resurrection of Christ as a certain pawn and pledge of their sanctification: for so reasoneth the Apostle Rom. 6: 4, 5, 11▪ 13. we are buried (say●…s He) with him by baptism into death, that likeas Christ was raised up from the dead, by the glory of the Father; even so we also should 〈◊〉 in 〈◊〉 of life: for— we shall ●…e 〈◊〉 also in the likeness of his resurrection, and if we 〈◊〉 dead with Christ, we believe, that we shall also live with him— therefore reckon ye also yourselves to be— alive unto God, through jesus Christ our Lord▪ and yield yourselves unto God, as these that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God. The right improving of this ground, would be of noble advantage unto the student of holiness: for thence he might with strong confidence conclude, that the work of sanctification should prosper in his hand: for he may now look upon himself, as quickened together with Christ Epes. 2: 5. Christ dying and rising, as a public person, and he by faith being now joined with him, and united to him.  
12. Moreover this Resurrection of Christ may yield us another ground of hope and confidence, in this work: for there is mention made of the power of his resurrection Phil. 3: 10. So that by faith we may draw strength and virtue from Christ, as an arisen and quickened Head, whereby we also may live unto God, and bring forth fruit unto him, and serve no more in the oldness of the letter, but in the newness of Spirit. Rom. 7: 4, 6. He was quickened as an Head, and when the head is quickened, the members cannot but look for some communication of life therefrom, and to live in the strength of the life of the head: See Col. 3: 1, 2.  
13. Faith may and should also look to Christ, as an intercessor with the Father, for this particular, john. 17: 17. Sanctify them through thy truth, thy word is truth: and this will add to their confidence, that the work shall go on: for Christ was always heard of the Father john. 11: 41, 42. and so will be in this prayer, which was not put up for these few disciples alone.  
The believer than would eye Christ as engaging to the Father, to begin and perfect this work; a●… dying to purchase the good things promised, and to confirm the same; as quickened and rising a●… head and a public person, to ensure this work; and to bestow and actually confer the graces requisite; and as praying also for the Father's concurrence; and cast the burden of the work on Him by faith, knowing, that He standeth obliged, by his place and relation to his people, to bear all their burdens, to work all their works in them; to perfect his own work that He hath begun in them; to present them to himself at last a holy bride; to give them the Spirit to dwell in them Rome▪ 8: 9▪ 11▪ and ●…o quicken their mortal bodies vers. 11. and to lead them vers. 14. till at length they be crowned, and brought forward to glory. This is to live by faith: when Christ liveth, acteth and worketh in us by his Spirit Gal. 2: 20. Thus Christ dwelleth in the heart by faith: and by this, his people become rooted and grounded in love, which is a cardinal grace, and knowing the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, they become filled with all the fullness of God Ephes. 3: 17, 19 So that the believer is to commit by faith the work to Christ, and leave the stress of all the business on Him, who is their life: Yet the believer must not think, to do nothing, nor to lay aside the means and ordinances, but us●…ing these diligently would, in them, commit the matter to Christ, and by faith roll the whole work on Him, expecting, upon the ground of his relations, engagements, promises, beginnings etc. that He will certanely perfect the work Phil. 1: 6. and take it well off their hands, and be well pleased with them, for putting the work in his hands, and leaving it on Him, who is made of God to us sanctification.  

Cautions.  
As in the former part, so here, it will not be 〈◊〉 to give a few words of caution, for preventing of mistakes.  
1. We would beware of thinking, that perfection can be attained here: the perfect man, and measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ is but coming▪ and till then the body will but be a perfecting & edifying, through the work of the ministry Ephes. 4: 12, 13. Believers must not think of sitting down on any measure of grace, which they attain to here; but they must be growing in grace, going from strength to strength, till they appear in the upper Z●…on, with the Apostle Phil. 3: 13. forgetting those things that are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, they must press toward the mark, for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ jesus. It must then be a dreadful delusion, for any to think, that they can reach to such a degree of perfection here, as not to stand in need of the ordinance any more▪ Let all believers live in the constant convicton of their shortcoming and be humbled, and so work out their salvation with fear and trembling.  
2. Nor should every believer expect one and the same measure of holiness, nor can it be expected with reason, that all shall advance here to the same height of sanctity▪ for every part of the body hath its own measure: and an effectual working in that measure; and so every joint of the body supplieth less or more according to its proportion, and contribureth to the increase of the body, and to the edifying of itself in love, as the Apostle clea●…ly showeth. Ephes. 4: 16. As in the natural●… body, the diversity of functions and uses of the members requireth diversity of furniture & strength; so, in the mystical body of Christ, the members have not all alike measure, but each hath his proper distinct measure, according to his place and usefulness in the body. Believers than would learn much sobr●…ety here and submission, knowing that God may dispense his graces as he will, and give them to each member, in what measure he thinketh good: Only they would take heed▪ that their poverty and leanness be not occasioned through their own carelessness and negligence, in not plying the means of grace with that faithfulness, and single dependence on Christ, that they ought.  
3. It would be remembered, that there may be some progress made in the way of holiness, when yet the believer may apprehend no such thing; not only because the measure of the growth may be so small and indiscernible, but also because even where the growth in itself is discernible, the Lord may think it good for wise ends, to hide it from their eyes, that they may be keeped humble, and diligent; whileas if they saw how matters stood indeed with them▪ they might, (without a new degree of grace) swell and be puffed up, yea even forget God, and misken themselves and others too. Likewise this may proceed from such an earnest desire after more, that they forget any measure they have gotten. and so despise the day of small things.  
4. There may be a progress in holiness, though not in that particular, which the believer is most eyeing, to his sense and apprehension: for when he thinks he is not growing in Love to, and Zeal for, God etc. he may be growing in Humility, which is also a memb●…r of the new man of grace; and when he can perceive no growth in Knowledge, there may be a growth in Affection & Tenderness▪ And if the work be carried on in any joint or member, it decayeth in none, though it may be better apprehended in one, than in another.  
5. There may be much holiness, where the believer is compleaning of the want of fruits, when under that dispensation of the Lord towards him, he is made to stoup before the most high, to put his mouth in the dust, if so be there may be hope, and pleasantly to submit to God's wise ordering, without grudging, or quarrelling with God for what He doth; and to accept sweetly the punishment of his iniquity; if he see guilt lying at the root of this dispensation. Where there is a silent submission to the sovereign & only wise disposeing hand of God, and the man is saying, if he will not have me to be a fruitful tree in his garden, nor to grow and flouri●…h as the palm tree▪ Let me be a shrub, only let me be keep●…d within the precincts of his garden, that his eye may be upon me for good▪ let me abide within his courts, that I may behold his countenance, there is grace, and no small measure of grace. To be an hired servant is much Luk▪ 15: 19  
6. But withal, it would be observed▪ that this gracious frame of soul, that is silent before God, under several disappointments, is accompanied with much singleness of heart, in panting after more holiness, and with seriousness and diligence in all commanded duties, waiting upon the Lord, who is their hope and their salvation, in each of them: and with mourning for their own sinful accession to that shortcoming in their expectations.  
7. We would not think that there is no progress in Christianity, or growth in grace, because it cometh not our way, or by the instruments and means, that we most expect it by: possibly we are too fond o●… some instruments and means, that we prefer to others, and we think, if ever we get good, it must be that way, and by that mean, be it private or public: and God may give a proof of his Sovereignty, and check us for our folly. By taking another way: He would not be found of the Bride, neither by her seeking of him secretly on her bed by night; nor more publicly, by going about the city, in the streets and broad ways; nor by the means of the watchmen Cant. 3▪ 1, 2, 3.  
8. Nor would we think, that there is no growth in the work of grace, because it cometh not at such or such a prelimited or fore-set time: nor would we think the matter desperate, because of our looking long, and waiting, and ask, and labouring, and yet seeing no sensible advantage: Such and such a believer (sayeth the soul) made great progress in a short time, but I come no speed, for as long as I have been at this school. O! we should beware of limiteing the holy one of Israel, Let us be at duty, and commit the event to Him.  
9 It is not a fit time, to take the measure of our graces, as to their sensible growth and fruitfulness, when devils are broken loose upon us; temptations are multiplied, corruptions make a great noise, and we are meeting with an horrible tempest shaking us on all hands: for it will be strong grace, that will much appear then; It will be a strong faith, that will say, though He kill me, yet will I trust in Him. At such a time it will be much, if the man keep the ground he hath gained, though he make no progress: It will be much for a tree to stand, and not be blown out of the ground, in the time of a strong and vehement storm of wind, though it keep not its flourishes, & yield not fruit. The trees, which in a cold winter day bear neither leaves nor fruit, must not be said to go back, nor not to grow, because when the spring cometh again, they may revive, and be as fruitful as ever.  
10. We would not always measure our graces by what appeareth outwardly; for there may be some accidental occurrence, that may hinder that: and yet grace be at work within doors, which few or none can observe. The Believer may be in a sweet and gracious frame▪ blushing before the Lord, y●…a melting in love, or taken up with spiritual meditations, & wondering, when as to some external duties, it can find no present disposition, through some accidental impediment or other, so that to some, who judge most by out ward appearance, no such thing as the active working of grace in life can appear.  
11. We would think it no small measure or degree of holiness, to be with singleness●… of heart pursueing it, even though it should seem to flee from us: to be earnestly panting after it, and hungering and thirsting for it: Nehemiah thought this no small thing, when he said Neh. 1. last. O Lord, I beseech thee, let now thine ear be attentive to the prayer— of thy servants, who desire to fear thy name.  
12. Whatever measure of holiness the beleeve●… win to, he would take special heed, that he place no part of his confidence of his being accepted and justified before God, in it; as if that could come in as any part of the price to satisfy justice: but when he hath done all, let him call and account himself an unprofitable servant: Though believers will not be so gross, as to speak thus; yet sure, their justifying of their holding aback from God, because they find not such a measure of grace and holiness, as they would have, looketh too much this way, and sayeth, that they lean too much hereunto, in the matter of the acceptance of their persons before God. Now this would be specially guairded against▪ lest their labour be in vain.   

Objections answered.  
An Objection or two must here also be removed▪ and first some may say: That though they have been labouring and striveing and working, now for some long time, yet they can perceive no advancement●… they are as far short as ever.  
Answer 1. Hath it not been found, that some have compleaned without cause? Have not some complained of their fruitlessness and want of growth, that other good Christians would have thought themselves very happy, if they had but advanced half so far, as they saw them to have done?  
2. But be it so, as it is alleiged, what if the fault be their own? what if the cause of this be, that they attempt things in their own strength, leaning to their own understanding, or habits of grace, or means etc. and that they do not go about duties, with that single dependence on Christ that is requisite, nor do they suck life, strength and sap from Him by faith, through the promises; nor give themselves up to Him by faith, that He may work in them both to will and to do? Should not this be seen, mourned for, and helped?  
3▪ If all this shortcoming and disappointment cause them lie in the dust, and humble themselves more and more before the Lord, the grace of humility is growing, and that is no small advantage, to be growing downward.  
4. Withal, they would do well to hold on in duty, looking to Christ for help, and rolling all difficulties on Him, give themselves away to Him, as their Head and Lord, and so continue their life of faith, or their consenting to let Christ live in them by faith, or work in them by his Spirit, what is well-pleasing in his sight, and wait for the blessing and fruit, in God's own time.  
Next it will be Objected. Though▪ we might wait thus; yet how unedifying are we unto others, when there appeareth no fruit of the spirit of grace 〈◊〉▪  
Answer. A Christian behaviour and deportment, under the sense of fruitlessness, expressing an holy submission of soul unto God as Sovereign, much humility of mind before Him, justifying of God and taking guilt to themselves, with a firm resolution to wait on patiently, in the use of means appointed, cannot but be edifying to Christian souls; such exercises being really the works and fruit of the Spirit of grace working within.  
But thirdly Some may say▪ How are then the promises of the covenant made good? Answer 1. The same measure of sanctification and holiness is not promised to all.  
2. No great measure is promised to any absolutely. So much indeed is secured to all believers, as shall carry them to heaven, as without which they cannot see God: but much as to the degrees depends on our performing through faith the conditions requisite, to wit, on condition of our abideing in the vine, of our acting faith on Him etc. and when these & the like conditions are not faithfully performed by us, what can we expect? So the Lord hath appointed a way, wherein He will be found, and will have us to wait for strength and influence from Him▪ and if we neglect those means, which He hath appointed, how can we expect the good, which He hath promised in the use of these means?  
3. The Lord hath his own time of making good all his promises, and we must not limit Him to a day.  
4. Hereby the Lord may be trying and exerciseing thy Faith, Patience, Hope▪ Dependence, Submission, Diligence▪ etc. and if these be in thee and abound, they shall make, that thou shall neither be barren, no●… unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ 2. Pet. 1: 11.  
But lastly it will be enquired, what can support the believing soul, in this case?  
Answer 1. The consideration and saith of the covenant of Redemption, wherein both the Father's engadgment to the Son, and the Sons engadgment to the Father, secureth grace and holiness, and salvation to the believer. And whatever we be, They will be true to each other, our unbeleef will not make the faith of God of none effect.  
2. The consideration of the noble and faithful promises, contained in the covenant of Grace, which shall be all made good in due time.  
3. If we be humbled under the sense of ou●… failings and shortcoming, and made to mourn before the Lord, and stirred up to more diligence and seriousness, that may yield comfort to our soul. If we be growing in Humility, godly Sorrow, Repentance, Diligence, and be gripping faster by faith to the Root, we want not ground of joy and support: for if that be, we cannot want fruit.  
4. It should be matter of joy and thanksgiving, that the believer is keeped from turning his back on the way of God, and keeped with his face still Zion-ward: though he make but little progress; yet he is still looking forward, and creeping as he may waiting at God's door, begging and ask, studying, labouring, and endeavouring for strength to go faster.  
5. It is no small matter of peace and comfort▪ if we be keeped from fretting grudging, and repining at the Lords dispensations with us, and be taught to sit silent in the dust, adoring His Sovereignty▪ and ascribeing no iniquity to our maker.    

CHAP. VIII. How to make use of Christ, for taking the guilt of our daily out-breaking away.  
THe next part of our sanctification, is in reference to our daily failings and transgressions, committed, partly through the violence of temptations, as we see in David and Peter, and other eminent men of God; partly through daily infirmities, because of our weakness and imperfections: for in many things we offend all jam. 3: 2. and if we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us 1 john. 1: 8. A righteous man falleth seven times Prov. 24: 16. There is not a just man upon earth▪ that doth good and sinneth not. Eccles. 7: 20. and Solomon further sayeth 1 King. 8: 46. that there is no man that sinneth not. This being so, the question is, how Christ is to be made use of, for taking of these away.  
For satisfaction to this, it would be considered, that▪ in those daily outbreakings there are two things to be noticed, first there is the Gild, which is commonly called Reatus poen●…, whereby the transgressor is liable to the sentence of the law, or to the penalty annexed to the breach thereof, which is no less than God's curse▪ for cursed is every 〈◊〉 that abideth not in all things, which are 〈◊〉 the law to do them Gal. 3: 10. Next, there is the ●…taine or bloat, which is called Reatus culp●…, whereby the soul is defiled and made, in so far, incapable of glory (for nothing entereth in there which defileth) and of communion and fellowshipe with God, who is of purer eyes than He can behold iniquity. So that it is manifest, how necessary it is, that both these be taken away, that they may not stand in ou●… way to the Father. And as to both, we must make use of Christ, who is the only way to the Father.  
And this we shall now clear: and first, speak of the taking away of the Gild, that is contracted by every sin: and for this cause, we shall briefly speak to two things: first, Show what Christ hath done as Mediator, for this end, that the guilt, contracted by our daily failings and outbreaking, might be taken away. Secondly, show what the believer should do, for the getting of guilt taken away in Christ: or▪ how he should make use of Christ▪ for reconciliation with God after transgressions; or for the taking away of the guilt that he lieth under▪ because of his violation of the law.  
As to the first, We say, Christ, for taking away of Gild contracted daily, hath done these things.  
1. Christ laid down his life a ransom for all the sins of the Elect: both such as were past before they believed, and such as were to be committed after. His blood was shed for the remission of sin●…, indefinitely, and without distinction Mat. 26: 28▪  
●…▪ And this was done according to the tenor of the covenant of Redemption, wherein the Fathe●… caused all our sins to meet together on Him Esai▪ ●…3: 6. and made Him sin, or a sacrifice for sin, indefinitely 2 Cor. 5: 21. and so did not except the sins committed after conversion.  
3. Having satisfiedjustice, and being risen from the dead, as a Conqueror, He is now exalted to be a Prince to give Repentance and Remission of sins Act. 5: 31. Now repentance and remission of sins his people have need of, after conversion, as well as before conversion.  
4. There are promises of pardon and remission of sins in the new covenant of Grace, all which are sealed and confirmed in the blood of Jesus jer. 31: 34.— for I will forgive their iniquity, and I will remember their sin no more: and Chap. 33: 8. And I will cleanse them from all their iniquity▪ whereby they have sinned against me: and I will pardon all their iniquities, whereby they have sinned against me, and whereby they have transgressed against me. Esai. 43: 25. I even I am he that bloteth out thy transgressions for mine own sake; and will not remember thy sins.  
5. Though there be no actual pardon of sins, till they be committed, and repent of, according to the tenor of the gospel Matth. 3: 2. Luke 13: 3. Act. 2: 38. & 8▪ 22. yet, while Christ bear all the sins of his people upon the cross, they were all then virtually and meritoriously taken away: of which Christ's resurrection was a certain pledge and evidence: for then goat He his acquittance from all, that either law or justice could charge Him with▪ in behalf of them▪ for whom He laid down his life a ransom Rom. 8: 33, 34. who shall lay any thing to the charge of God's elect? It is God that justifieth, who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, or rather that is risen again etc.  
6. So that by virtue of Christ's death, there is a way laid down, in the covenant of grace, how the sins of the elect shall be actually pardoned. viz. That at their conversion and first laying hold on Christ by faith, all the sins, whereof they then stand guilty, shall be actually pardoned and forgiven, in their justification: and all their after sins shall also be actually pardoned▪ upon their griping to Christ of new by faith, and turning to God by repentance. And this way is agreed to by Father and Son, and revealed in the gospel, for the instruction and encouragement of believers: and all to the glory of his free grace. In whom we have redemption (sayeth the Apostle Ephes. 1: 7, 8, 9) through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace, wherein He hath abounded toward us, in all wisdom and prudence; having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure, which He purposed in himself.  
7. Beside Christ's Death and Resurrection, which give ground of hope of pardon of daily out-breaking; there is likewise his Intercession useful for this end: for sayeth the Apostle john▪ 1 Epist. 2: 1. 2.— If any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, jesus Christ the righteous; and He is the propitiation for our sins. This intercession of his 〈◊〉 a special part of his Priesthood, who was the great Highpriest Heb. 4: 14, 16. and a completing Part Heb. 8: 4 & 9 8. and upon this account 〈◊〉, that He is able to save to the uttermost all that come to God through Him, because He liveth for ever to make intercession for them Heb. 7: 25. for by his intercession is the work of redemption carried on, the Purchased benefits applied; and particularly new grants of remission are through his intercession issued forth. He pleading and interceding, in a way suitable to his glorified condition, upon his death and propitiation made, while he was upon the cross, accepted of the Father, and declared to be accepted by his resurrection, aso●…sion, and sitting at the Father's right hand. And thus, as believers are reconciled to God by Christ's death, they are saved by his life. Rom. 5: 10. So that Christ's living for to be an intercessor, makes the believers salvation sure; and so layeth down▪ a ground for taking away of daily outbreakings, which, if not taken away, would hinder and obstruct the believers salvation.  
8. And as for the condition requisite to renewed pardon, viz faith and Repentance, Christ is the worker of both: for He is a Prince exalted to give Repentance, first and last Act. 4: 30. and as He is the author of faith, so He is the finisher of it Heb. 12: 2.  
As to the second particular, namely, what believers should do for getting the guilt of their daily failings and outbreaking taken away by Christ: or how they should make use of Christ for this end; I shall for clearing of it, propose those things to consideration.  
1. We would beware to think, that all our after actual transgressions are actually pardoned, either when Christ died, or when we first believed in Christ, as some suppose; for sin cannot properly be said to be pardoned before it be committed, David was put to sue out for pardon, after his actual transgression was committed; and not for the mere sense and feeling of the pardon, or the intimation of it to his Spirit, when he cried out Psal, 51: 2— blot out my transgressions, wash me etc. & vers. 9▪ hide thy face from my sins, and blot out all mine iniquities and vers. 14. deliver me from blood guiltiness. Sure when he spoke thus, he sought some other thing, than intimation of pardon to his sense and conscience; for that he desired also, but in far more clear expressions vers. 8. make me to hear joy and gladness etc. and vers. 12. restore unto me the joy of thy salvation etc. Scripture phrases to express remission import this. viz Covering of sin, Pardoning of debts, Blotting out of sins Hideing of God's face from sins, not Remembering of them, Casting of them behind his back, Casting of them into the sea, Removing of sins Psal. 103: 12. a lifting off of sin, or Taking it away, a Non-imputation of sin Psal. 33: 1, 2. These and the like phrases, though many of them be metaphorical; yet do all of them clearly evince, that sin must first have a being, before it can be pardoned. The same is clearly imported by the gospel conditions, requisite before Pardon, such as acknowledgement of sin 1 joh. 1: 9 which we see was practised by the worthies of old, David Psal. 32. & 51. Nehemiah Cap. 9 Ezra Cap. 9 & Daniel Chap. 9 Confessing and Forsaking of it Prov. 28: 13. Sorrowing▪ for it & Repenting of it, and laying hold on Christ by faith, etc. The reason why I propose this, is not only to guaird against this antinomian error: but also to guaird the soul from security, to which this doctrine hath a natural tendency: for if a person once think, that all his sins were pardoned, upon his first believing, so that many of them were pardoned before they were committed; he shall never be affected for his after transgressions, nor complean of a body of death, nor account himself miserable upon that account, as Paul did Rom. 7: 24. nor shall he ever pray for remission, though Christ hath taught all to do so, in that pattern of prayer; nor shall he act faith upon the promises of pardon, made in the covenant of grace, for after transgressions, or for transgressions actually committed jer. 31: 34. & 3●…: 8. Heb. 8: 12. and so there shall be no use made of Christ for new pardons, or remissions of new sins.  
2. The believer would remember, that, among other things, antecedently requisite to remission of posterior actual transgressions, gospel Repentance is especially required Luk. 13: 3. Mat. 3: 2. Ezeck. 18: 28, 30, 32. Luk. 15: 17, 18 Ho●…. 2: 6, 7. Ezech. 14: 6. whereby a Sinner▪ through the help of the Spirit, being convinced not only of his hazard by reason of sin, but also of the filthiness and hatefulness of sin; and having a sight of the mercy of God in Christ Jesus to sinners, turning from their sin, doth turn from those sins unto God, with a full purpose of heart, in his strength, to follow Him and obey his laws: and hereby the soul is brought to loathe its self and sin, and is made willing to desire, seek for, accept of and prize remission of sins. This makes them more marry in time coming, and careful: for behold (says the Apostle 2 Cor. 7: 11.) This self same thing that ye sorowed after a godly sort, what carefulness it wrought in you; yea, what clearing of yourselves; what indignation, yea what fear; yea, what vehement desire; yea what Zeal; yea what revenge; etc. Thus is God glorified in his justice, Psal. 51: 4. and his mercy is acknowledged, in not entering with us into judgement, nor casting us into hell, as He might have done in justice.  
3. Yet it would be remembered, that though it hath seemed good in the Lord's eyes, to choose this method, and appoint this way of obtaining pardon of sins daily committed, for the glory of his grace and mercy; and likewise for our good, we must not ascribe too much unto Repentance, in the matter of pardon: we must not make it a cause of our remission, either efficient or meritorious: we must not think, that it hath any hand in appeaseing the wrath of God, or in satisfying of justice: pardon must always be an act of God's free grace, unmerited at our hands; & procured alone through the merits of Christ: we must not put repentance in Christ's room and place, nor ascribe any imperfection unto his merits, as if they needed any supply from any act of ours: we must beware of leaning to our Repentance, and godly Sorrow, even so far as to think to commend ourselves to God thereby, that we may obtain pardon.  
4. The believer would consider seriously the dreadfulness of their condition, who are lying under the lash of the law for sin, The law sayeth, cursed is every one that continueth not in all things written in the law: and every sin is a transgression of the law: so that, according to law and justice, they are in hazard: for every sin in itself exposeth the sinner to eternal wrath, sin being an offence against God who is a righteous judge, and a breach of his law. A right sight and apprehension of this, would serve to humble the sinner before God, and make him more earnest in seeking out for pardon, that this obligation to punishment might be removed.  
5. The believer would not only consider the sin itself; but also take notice of all its Aggravations. There are peculiar aggravations of some sins, taken from the time, manner and other circumstances, which rightly considered will help forward the work of humiliation: And the sins of believers have this aggravation, above the sins of others, that they are committed against more love, and special Love, and against more opposition and contradiction of the grace of God within the soul, against more light and conviction etc. and therefore, their humiliation upon this account ought to be singular and serious, So was it with David, when he took notice of the special aggravations of his sin Psal. 51: 4, 6, 14. and Ezra. cap. 9 & Nehemiah Cap. 9 and Daniel Cap 9 This considering of sin with its due aggravations, would help to prise mercy at an high rate, and cause the soul more willingly wait for, and more seriously seek after Remission; knowing that God is more angry for great sins, than for sins of infirmity, and may therefore pursue the same with sorer judgements, as He broke David's bones, withdrew his comforts etc.  
6. The believer would be convinced of an impossibility of doing any thing in himself, which can procure pardon at the hands of God: should he weep, cry, afflict himself, & pray never so, all will do nothing by way of merit; for the taking away of the least sin, that ever he committed: and the conviction of this would drive him to despair in himself; and be a mean to bring him cleanly off himself, and to look out for mere mercy in Christ Jesus. So long as, through the deceitfulness of Satan, the false heart inclineth to the old bias, and hath its eye upon any thing in itself, from whence it draweth its hops and expectation of pardon and acceptance, it will not purely act faith on Christ for this end, and so he will lose all his labour, and in end be disappointed. Therefore the believer would guard against this, and that so much the more, that the false deceitful heart is so much inclined thereto; and that this deceit can sometime work so cunningly, that it▪ can hardly be discerned, being fairded over with many false glosses and pretexts; and that it is so dishonourable to Jesus, and hurtful and prejudicial to the soul.  
7. The believer would act faith on the promises of pardon in the new covenant, as having a right to them through Jesus Christ, and challenge with humble boldness, the fulfilling of the same▪ according to that 1. joh. 1: 9▪ If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins. So that the believer may not only take hold of mercy, and grace in God, as an encouragement and invitation to go to God for pardon; but even of the justice and righteousness of God, because of his faithful promises: and the believer would have here a special eye to Christ, in whom all the promises▪ are yea and amen; and look for the accomplishment of them through Him, and for his sake alone.  
8. Faith would eye Christ, as hanging upon the cross, and offering up himself, through the eternal Spirit, a sacrifice to satisfy divine justice, for all the sins of his own chosen ones: we cannot think, that Christ bore but some of their sins, or only their sins, committed before conversion; and if he bore all, as the Father laid all upon Him, the believer is to lay hold on Him by faith, as hanging on the cross, as well for taking away of the guilt of sins committed after conversion, as before. His sacrifice was a sacrifice for all, and He bore our sins without distinction or exception, in his own body on the tree, 1. Pet. 2: 24. David had his eye on this, when he cried out Psal. 51: 7. purge me with hyssop, hyssop being sometimes used in the legal purifications, which typified that purification, which Christ really wrought, when He gave himself a sacrifice for sin Levit. 14: 6. Num. 19: 18.  
9 The believer looking on Christ, dying as a Mediator, to pacify the wrath of God, and to make satisfaction to the justice of God, for the sins of his people, would renew his consent unto that gracious, and wise contriveance of heaven, of pardoning sins, through a crucified Mediator, that mercy and Justice might kiss each other, and be glorified together: and declare again his full satisfaction with Christ's satisfying of justice for him, and taking away the guilt of his sins, by that blood, that was shed upon the cross, by taking those sins, whereof now he standeth guilty, and for which he is desireous of pardon, and by faith nailing them to the cross of Christ, and rolling them on his shoulders, that the guilt of them, as well as of the rest, might be taken away, through the merits of his death and satisfaction. Thus the believer consenteth to that noble act of free grace, whereby the Lord made all our sins to meet together on Christ, when he taketh those particular sins, wherewith now he is troubled, and casteth them in into the heap, that Christ, as the true scape-goat, may carry all away. This is to lay our hands on the head of our sacrifice.  
10. The believer hath another ground of comfort to grippe to, in this case, and that is, Christ's eternal Priesthood, whereby he makes intercession for the transgressions of his people, and as their advocate and atturnay with the father, pleadeth their cause, whereby he is able to save them to the last, and uttermost step of their jurnay, and so to save them from the guilt of all casual and emergent sins, that might hinder their salvation: So that the believer is to put those sins, that now he would have pardoned, into the hands of Christ, the everlasting intercessor and alsufficient advocate, that He, by virtue of his death, would obtain a new pardon of these their failings▪ and transgressions, and deliverance from the guilt thereof; and their acceptance with the Father notwithstanding of these transgressions.  
11. Thus believers eyeing Christ as Dying, Rising again, Ascending, and as Sitting at the Father's right hand, there to be a Priest for ever, after the order of Melchisedeck, and to interceded for his own, and to see to the application of what benefits, pardons, favours, and other things they need, from all which they have strong ground of comfort and of hope, yea and assurance of pardon, would acquiesce in this way; and having laid those particular sins, under the burden whereof they now groan, on Christ the mediator, dying on the cross to make satisfaction, and ariseing to make application of what was purchased, and having put them in his hand, who is a faithful High priest, and a noble Intercessor, would remember, that Christ is a Prince exalted to give Repentance and Remission of sins▪ and so expect the sentence even from Him, as a Prince now exalted, and as having obtained that of the Father, even a power to forgive sins, justice being now sufficiently satisfied, through his death; yea & as having all power in heaven and in earth, as being Lord both of the dead and of the living. Sure a right thought of this would much quiet the soul, in hope of obtaining pardon through Him; seeing now the pardon is in his own hand, to give out, who loved them so dearly, that he gave himself to the death for them, and shed his heart blood to satisfy justice for their transgressions. Since he, who hath procured their pardon at so dear a rate, and is their atturnay to agent their business at the throne of grace, hath now obtained the prayed-for & looked-for pardon, and hath it in his ownehand, they will not question but He will give it, and so absolve them from their guilt.  
12. The believer, having taken this course, with his daily provocations, and laid them all on Him, would acqui●…sce in this way, and not seek after another, that he may obtain pardon. Here he would rest, committing the matter by faith in prayer to Christ, & leaving his guilt and sins on Him, expect the pardon: yea conclude, that they are already pardoned: and that for these sins, he shall never be brought unto condemnation; whatever Satan and a misbelieving heart may say or suggest afterward.  
Thus should a believer make use of Christ, for the taking away of the Gild of his daily transgressions; and for further clearing of it, I shall add a few cautions.  

Cautions.  
1. However the believer is to be much moved at, & aff●…cted with, his sins and provocations, which he committeth after God hath visited his soul with salvation, and brought him into a covenant with himself; yet he must not suppose, that his sins after justification do mar his state; as if thereby he were brought into a Non-justified state, or to a Non reconciled state. It is true, such sins, especially if gross, whether in themselves or by reason of circumstances, will darken a man's state, and put him to search and try his condition, over again. But yet we dar not say, that they make any alteration in the state of a believer: for once in a justified state always in a justified state. It is true likewise, that as to those sins, which now he hath committed, he cannot be said to be acquitted or justified, till this pardon be got out by faith and repentance, as is said; yet his State remaineth fixed and unchanged; so that though God should seem to deal with such in his dispensations, as with enemies; yet really his affections change not; he never accounteth them real enemies; nay love lieth at the bottom of all his sharpest dispen●…ations. If they for sake his law, and walk not in his judgements, if they break his statutes and keep not his commandments, he will visit their transgression with the rod, and their iniquit●… with stripes: nevertheless his loving kindness will he not utterly take from them, nor suffer his faithfulness to ●…ail: his covenant will he not break nor alter the thing that is gone out of his lips Psal. 89: 30, 31, 32, 33, 34.▪ And again, though after-transgressions may waken challenges for former sins, which have been pardoned and blotted out, and give occasion to Satan to raise a storm in the soul, and put all in confusion; yet really sins once pardoned cannot become again unpardoned sins. The Lord doth not revoke his sentence, nor alter the thing that is gone out of his mouth. It is true likewise, that a believer, by committing of gross sins, may come to miss the effects of God's favour and good will, and the intimations of his love and kindness; and so be made to cry with David Psal. 51: 8. make me to hear joy and gladness and vers. 12. restore unto me the joy of thy salvation, etc. Yet that really holdeth true, that whom he loveth he loveth to the end; and He is a God that changeth not; and his gifts are without repentance. Yea though grieving of the Spirit may bring souls under sharp throws, and pangs of the Spirit of bondage, and the terrors of God, and His sharp arrows, the poison where of may drink up their spirits▪ and so be far from the actual witnessings of the Spirit of Adoption: yet the Spirte will never be again really a Spirit of bondage unto fear, nor deny his his own work in the soul, or the souls real right to, or possession of that fundamental privilege of Adoption; or say, that the soul is no more a Son, no●… within the covenant.  
2. The course before mentioned is to be taken with all sins, though. 1. They be never so hai●…ous and gross. 2. Though they be accompanied with never such aggravating and crying aggravations. 3. Though they be sins frequently fallen into: and. 4. Though they be sins many and heaped together. David's transgression was a heinous sin, and had heinous aggravations, yea there was an heap and a complication of sins together in that one; yet he followed this course. We find none of those kind of sins excepted in the new covenant; and where the law doth not distinguish, we ought not to distinguish: where God's law doth not expressly exclude us, we should not exclude ourselves. Christ's death is able enough to take away all sin. If through it a beleeve●… be justified from all his transgressions committed before conversion, why may not also a believer be, through virtue of it, justified from his gross and multiplied sins committed after conversion? The blood of Christ cleanseth from all sin●… Christ hath taught his followers to pray, forgive us our sins, as we forgive them that sin against us, and he hath told us also, that we must forgive our brother seventy times seven times Mat. 18: 22. We would not be discouraged then from taking this course, because our sins are such and such; nay rather, we would look on this, as an argument to press us more unto this way, because the greater our sins be, the greater need have we of pardon, and to say with David Ps. 25: 11. Pardon mine iniquity, for it is great.  
3. We would not think, that upon our taking of this course, we shall be instantly freed from challenges, because of those sins, for pardoning whereof we take this course: nor should we think, that because challenges remain, that therefore, there is no pardon had, or that this is not the way to pardon: for, as we shall show afterward, pardon is one thing, and intimation of pardon is another thing: we may be pardoned, and yet suppose that we are not pardoned; challenges will abide, till the conscience be sprinkled, and till the Prince of peace command peace to the conscience, and put the accuser to silence; who, when he can do no more▪ will mar the peace of a believer, as long as he can▪ and stop the current of his comforts, which made▪ David pray, that God would restore to him the joy, of his salvation Psal. 51.  
4. Nor would we think, that upon our taking of this course for the pardon of our sins, we shall never thereafter meet with a challenge upon the account of these sins. It is true, when sins are pardoned, they are fully pardoned in God's court, and that obligation to condemnation is taken away, and the pardoned person is looked upon as no sinner, that is, as no person liable to condemnation because of these sins; for being pardoned he becometh just before God; yet we dare not say, but conscience afterward, being alarmed with new transgressions, may mistake, as people suddenly put into a fright are ready to do: nor dar we say, that God will not permit Satan, to upbraid us with those sins, which have been blotted out long ago, as he suffered Shim●…i, who was but an instrument of Satan, to cast up to David his blood guiltiness, which had been pardoned long before. The Lord may think good to suffer this, that his people may be keeped humble; and made more tender and watchful, in all their ways.  
5. Believers would not miss▪ improve or abuse this great condescendency of free grace, & take the greater liberty to sin, because there is such a sure, saif●…, and pleasant way of getting those sins blotted out and forgiven. Shall we sin because we are not under grace, but under the law? That be far from us, sayeth 〈◊〉 Apostle Rom. 6: 15. This were indeed to turn the grace of God into lasciviousness. And it may be a question, if such as have really repent, & gotten their sins pardoned, will be so ready to make this use of it: sure, sense of pardon will work some other effect, as we see Ezech. 16: 62, 63.  
6. The believer, in going about this work of nailing his sins to the cross of Christ, and of improving Christ's Death, Resurrection and constant intercession, for the obtaining of pardon, would not think of going alone, or of doing this, in his own strength: for of himself he can do nothing. He must look to Christ for grace, to help in this time of need, and must got about this duty with dependence on Him, waiting for the influences of Light, Counsel, Strength, and Grace from Him to repent and believe: for He is a Prince exalted to give repentance, first and last, and He is the author and finisher of faith: so that without Him we can do nothing.  
7. Let the believer beware of concluding, that he hath got no pardon, because he hath met with no sensible intimation thereof, by the flowing in of peace and joy in his soul. Pardon is one mercy, and intimation of it to the soul is another distinct mercy, and separable from it: shall we therefore say, we have not gotten the first, because we have not gotten both? The Lord, for wise reasons, can pardon poor sinners, and not give any intimation thereof; to wit, that they may watch more against sin afterward, and not be so bold as they have been, and that they may find more in experience, what ●… bitter thing it is to sin against God, and learn withal to depend on Him for less and more: and to carry more humbly: for it may be, God seeth, that if they saw their sins pardoned, they would forget themselves, and rush into new sins again.  
8. The believer must not think it strange, if he find more trouble after greater sins, and a greater difficulty to lay hold on Christ for pardon of those, then for pardon of others: for as God hath been more dishonoured by these; so is his anger more kindled, upon that account: and it is sureable for the glory of God's justice, that our sorrow for such heinous sins be proportionably greater: and this will likewise increase the difficulty: and ordinarily the effects of God's fatherly displeasure, make deeper wounds in the soul after such sins, and these are not so easily healed: all which will call for 〈◊〉 and proportionably greater godly sorrow and repentance, and acts of faith: because faith will meet with more opposition and discouragement there; and therefore must be the more strong, to go thorough these impediments, and to lay hold on his cross. Yet though this should make all watchful, and to guaird against gross and crying sins, it should not drive any to despair, nor to say, with that despairing wretch, their sin is greater than it can be forgiven, the ocean of mercy can drown and swallow up great, as well as lesser sins: Christ is an alsufficient Mediator, for the greatest sins, as well as for the least. O for thy name's sake pardon mine iniquity, for it is great, will come in season to a soul ready to sink with the weight of this millstone, ●…ied about its neck.  
9 as the greater sins should not make us despair of taking this course for remission; so nor should the smaln●…sse of sin make us to neglect this way: for the least sin cannot be pardoned but through Jesus Christ; for the law of God is violated thereby, justice provoked, God's authority vilipended &c. and therefore cannot be now pardoned, by reason of the threatenings annexed to the transgression of the law, without a ransom: death is the wages of all sin, lesser and greater; and the curse is due to all sinners greater and smaller. Therefore the believer would not suffer one sin, seen and discovered, to lie unpardoned; but on the first discovery thereof, take it away to Christ, and nail it to his cross.  
10. The believer would not conclude, that his sins are not pardoned, because possibly temporal strokes, inflicted because of them, are not removed: for though David's sin was pardoned; yet, because of that sin of his a temporal stroke attended him and his family, to his dying day: for not only did God cut off the child 2 Sam. 15: 14. but told him, that the sword should never depairt from his house, and that He would raise up evil against him, ●…ut of his own house, and give his wives to one, that should lie with them in the sight of the sun vers. 10, 11. So we read, that the Lord took vengeance on their inventions, whose sins he had pardoned Psal. 99: 8. God may see this fit and expedient, for his own glory, and for humbling of them, and causing them fear the more to sin against him. Yea not only may temporal calamities be inflicted, because of sin pardoned; or continued, after sin is pardoned; but even sense of God's displeasure may continue after pardon, as appeareth by that penitential Psalm 51. penned by David, after Nathan had spoken to him concearning his sin.   

Quaestions or Objections answered.  
1. What course shall we take with secret sins ●… I answer. This same course must be followed with them: There is an implicit repentance of sins, that have not been distinctly seen and observed, as who can see and observe all their failings? And so there may be an implicit faith acting: that is, the believer, being persuaded that he is guilty of mo●… sins, than he hath yet got a clear sight of, as he would bewail his condition before God because of these, and sorrow for them after a godly manner; so he would take them together in a heap, o●… as a closed bag full, and by faith nail them to the cross of Christ, as if they were all distinctly seen and known: who can understand his errors, said David Psal. 19: 12. yet says he moreover, cleanse thou me from secret faults.  
2. But what if after all this, I find no intimation of pardon to my soul? Ans. As this should serve to keep thee humble, so it should excite to more diligence, in this duty of going with thy sins to Christ, and to ply him, and his cross more, in and through the promises, and keep thy soul constant in this duty of running to Christ, as an alsufficient Mediator, and as an intercessor with the Father; and thus wait on Him who waiteth to be gracious; even in this particular, of intimating pardon to thy soul. He knoweth when it is fittest for thee to know, that thy sins are forgiven.  
3. But what can yield me any ground of peace, while itis so, that I see no pardon or remission granted to me? Answer. This may yield thee peace, that following this course, which hath been explained, thou art about thy duty. Thou art not at peace with sin, nor harbouring that viper in thy soul; thou art mourning and sorrowing over it, and running to Christ, the Prince of pardons, through his blood, and intercession, conform to the covenant of redemption and after the encouragement given, in the many and precious promises of the covenant of grace, and, having these promises, and rolling thy guilt on Christ, as thy cautioner, conform to the manner expressed in the gospel, thou art allowed to believe, that thy sins are pardoned, and that thou art accepted in the beloved, and so quiet thy soul through faith, God abideing faithful and true, and his promises being all yea and amen in Christ.  
4. But so long as I find not intimation of pardon, I cannot think that I have taken the right gospel way of bringing my sins to Christ. Answer. Though that will not follow, as we cleared above: for a soul may take the right gospel way of getting the guilt of their sins taken away in Christ; and God may pardon thereupon; and for all that not think it fit to give intimation of that pardon as yet, for wise and holy ends: yet the soul may humble itself for its shortcoming, and still go about the duty, amending in Christ, what it supposeth is amiss, and renewing its acts of repentance and faith, and beg of Christ understanding in this matter, and so continue carrying sin all way to Christ's cross, and eyeing his intercession, and wait for a full clearing of the matter, in his good time.  
5. But what shall I do with the guilt of my weak Repentance, and weak faith? Answer. When with a weak and defective repentance and faith thou art carrying thy sins away to Christ, and nailing them to his cross, let the imperfections of thy faith and repentance go with the rest, and leave all there.  
6. What shall I do with my conscience, that still accuseth me of guilt, notwithstanding of my taking and following this course▪ Answer. Despise not the accusations of conscience; but let these humble thee the more, and keep thee closer at, this duty: yet know that conscience is but an under servant and God's deputy, and must accuse according to law (I speak not here of the irregular, furious and turbulent motions of Satan, casting-in granads in the soul and conscience, to raise a combustion and put all in a fire) its mouth most be stopped by law, and so the soul would stay and answer the accusations of conscience with this, that he hath fled to Christ, the only Mediator and Cautioner, and cast his burden on him; and leaneth to his merits alone; and hath put those sins in his hand, as his advocate and intercessor with the Father; and that the gospel requireth no more of him: and if conscience should say, that both faith and repentance are imperfect and defective, and that guilt is thereby rather increased then taken away: He must answer again. True, but I have done with the guilt of my faith and repentance, as with the rest, taken all to Christ, and left all on him; and herein only do I acquiesce; I look not for pardon for my imperfect faith and repentance, yea nor would I look for pardon of my sins, for my faith and repentance, were they never so perfect, but only in and through Jesus Christ, the only Cautioner, Redeemer and Advocate. But further, this deputy would be brought to his master, who can only command him to silence: that is to say, the Believer would go to Christ with the accuseing conscience, and desire Him to command it silence, that he may have peace of conscience, and freedom from those accusations, that are bitter and troublesome. Remember withal, that if these accusations drive thee to Christ, and endear Him more to thy soul, they will do no harm, because they drive thee to thy only resting place, and to the grand peace maker. But if otherwise they discourage or for●…stow thee in thy motion Christ ward, then be sure conscience speaketh without warrant, and its accusations ought not, in so far, and as to that end, be regairded.    

CHAP. IX. How to make use of Christ, for cleansing of us from our daily spots.  
HAving spoken of the way of making use of Christ, for removing of the guilt of our daily transgressions, we come to speak of the way of making use of Christ, for taking away the filth that cleaveth to the soul, through daily transgressions: for every sin defileth the man Mat, 15: 20 and the best are said to have their spots, and to need washing▪ which presupposeth filthiness and defilement Ephes. 5: 27. john. 13: 8, 10. Hence we are so oft called to this duty of washing and making us clean Esai. 1: 16. jer. 4: 14. Act. 22: 16. David prays for this washing Psal. 51: 2, 7. And it is Christ's work to wash 1 Cor. 6: 11. Revel. 1: 5. Ephes. 5: 26. See Tit. 3: 5. Now in speaking to this, we shall observe the same method; and first show, what Christ hath done to take away this filth; and next, what way we are to make use of Him▪ for this end, to get our spots and filthiness taken away, that we may be holy.  
As to the first. For the purging away of the filth of our daily failings and transgressions, Christ hath done those things.  
1. He hath died that He might procure this benefit and advantage to us; and thus he hath washed us meritoriously in his blood, which he shed upon the cross. Thus he loved us, and washed us from our sins, in his own blood. Revel. 1: 5. and this is from all sins, as well such as are committed after, as such as are committed before conversion. Thus He by himself purged our sins Heb. 1: 3. viz by offering up of himself as an expiatory sacrifice to make an atonement, and so procure this liberty. So also it is said Ephes. 5: 25, 26, 27. that Christ gave himself for his Church, that He might sanctify and cleanse it— that He might present it to himself a glorious Church, not having spot or wrinkle, or any such thing, but that it should be holy & without blemish. So Tit. 2: 14. He gave himself for us, that he— might purify to himself a peculiar people, Zealous of good works. Here then is the foundation and ground of all our cleanseing and purification; Christ's death procuring it.  
2. As He hath procured; so he sendeth the Spirit to effectuate this, and to work this washing and sanctification, in us. Hence it is said 1 Cor. 6: 11. that we are sanctified and washed, in the name of the Lord jesus, and by the Spirit of our God. We are said to be saved by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the holy ghost, which he shed upon us abundantly through jesus Christ our Saviour Tit. 3: 5▪ 6. The sending then or shedding of the holy and sanctifying Spirit upon us, whereby we are sanctified, and consequently purified and purged from our filth, is a fruit of Christ's death and mediation, being purchased thereby, and is an effect of his resurrection: and glorification, and intercession in glory.  
3. He hath made a fountain of his blood for this end, that we may go to it daily, and wash and be clean: thus his blood cleanseth from all sin 1 joh. 1: 7, 9 This is the fountain opened to the house of David, and to the inhabitants of jerusalem for sin and for uncleanness. Zech. 13: 1.  
4. He hath purchased and provided the external means, whereby this cleansing and sanctification is brought about: viz the preaching of the gospel, which He himself preached, and thereby sanctified john 15: 3. Now are ye clean through the word that I have spoken unto you. Ephes. 5: 26. the Church is sanctified and cleansed with the washing of water, by the word.  
5. So hath He procured, and worketh in the soul those graces, that promove and carry on this work of sanctification and purifying; such as faith, which purifieth the heart Act. 15: 9 whereof he is the author and finisher Heb. 12. and hope which whosoever hath, purifieth himself, even as He is pure. 1 john. 3: 3.  
6. He hath confirmed and ratified all the promises of the covenant, which are ample and large, touching this cleansing and washing jer. 35: 8. And I will cleanse them from all their iniquity, whereby they have sinned against me Ezech. 36: 25. Then will I sprinkle clean water upon you, and ye shall be clean, from all your filthiness. So Ezech. 37: 23.— and I will cleanse them. And all the other promises of the covenant, apprehended by faith, have no small influence on our cleanseing 2 Cor. 7: 1. having there o●…e these promises, let us cleanse ourselves &c. all which promises are yea and amen in Christ 2 Cor. 1: 20.  
Thus Christ hath made all sure, for the cleanseing and washing of his people, conform to that article of the covenant of Redemption. So shall he sprinkle many nations Esai. 52: 15.  
Secondly, As to the way of our usemaking of Christ, for the purging away of our filth and daily pollutions. Believers would take this course.  
1. They would remember and live in the conviction of the exceeding abominablnesse and filthiness of sin, which is compared to the vomit of a dog, and to the mire, wherein the sow walloweth 2 Pet. 2: 22. to filthy rags Esai. 64: 6. to a menstruous cloth Esai 30▪ 22▪ and the like, that this may move them to seek with greater care and diligence, to have that filth washen away.  
2. They would remember also how abominable sin maketh them in the eyes of an holy God, who cannot behold iniquity, being a God of purer eyes than to behold it Habak. 1: 13. nor can He look on it. And how therefore no unclean thing can enter in into the new Jerusalem▪ nor any thing that defileth. And this will make them so much the more to abhor it, and to seek to be washen from it.  
3. They would look by faith upon the blood of Christ, that is shed for this end, to wash filthy souls into; and run to it as a fountain opened for this end, that they might come to it, and wash & be clean.  
4. For their encouragement, they would grip by faith to the promises of the new covenant, which are large and full.  
5. And remember the end of Christ's death▪ viz to purchase to himself a holy people, Zealous of good works, to present them to Himself holy, and without spot and wrinkle, or any such thing: and this will be a further encouragement.  
6. They would put the work by faith in his hand, who hath best skill to wash a foul soul, and to purge away all their spots; and by faith pray for and expect the Spirit, to sanctify and cleanse them from all their filthiness: that is, they would make known, and spread forth their abominations before the Lord, and eyeing Christ as the only great Highpriest, whose blood is a fountain to wash in, would lay the work on Him, and by faith put Him to wash away that filth, and to purify their souls by his Spirit, pardoning their bygone iniquities, & renewing them in the spirit of their minds by grace, that they may walk before him in fear. Thus they would roll the work on Him, and leave it there.  

Cautions & Directions.  
1. The believer would in all this work be keeped, in the exercise of those graces following.  
1. Of Humility, seeing what a vile filthy wretch he is, that stands in need of washing and purging daily, because of his daily pollutions, and transgressions.  
2. Of Love▪ considering with what a loving God he hath to do, that hath provided so liberally 〈◊〉 things for him, and particularly hath provided a fountain and such a fountain, whereto he no●… only may, but is commanded to resort daily.  
3. Of Thankfulness, remembering how great this mercy is, how unworthy he is, on whom it is bestowed, and who He is that doth grant it.  
4. Of Fear, lest God's goodness be abused, and He provoked, who is so gracious to us.  
5. Of Sincerity, and godly ingenuity, avoiding all hypocrisy, and formality, knowing that we have to do with Him, who will not be mocked.  
6. Of holy Hatred, loathing and abhorrence of sin, which maketh us so filthy and odious in the eyes of the Lord.  
2. This course would be followed, for the purging away of the least sins: for till they be purged away, we remain in our filth, and cannot expect God's favourable countenance, nor his warm embracements, nor the hearty intimations of his love and kindness. And a small inconsiderable like spot may grow greater, and provoke God to let the accuser of the brethren, Satan, who always waits for his opportunity, loss upon us, and a conscience wakened may make much of a little defilement, to keep the soul from approaching to God.  
3. This course would be followed with every sin, quickly, without delay: for the longer those spots continue, it will be the more difficult to get them taken away: the soul will after some time, become the less troubled about them, and possibly forget them; and so they will remain; and this may occasion at last a sad distance, and provoke God to hide his face, which will cause more bitterness and sorrow. It were good then, to keep up a Spirit of tenderness and fear.  
4. Let this be our Daily work and exercise: for we are daily contracting new filth: yesterday cleansing will not save us from new filth to day: nor will our running to the fountain to day, serve to take away new spots tomorrow: new spots call for new washing, so that this must be our very life and exercise, to be daily and continually running to the fountain with our foul souls; and giving Christ, the great purger, much to do.  
5. We must not think to be perfectly Washen, so long as we are here; for we will be contracting new filth daily, our feet will still be to wash john. 13: 10. We will not be without spote or wrinkle, till we come home to that place, wherein entereth nothing that defileth.  
6. Let the believers recourse in this matter be wholly to jesus Christ and his blood, and lay no weight on their sorrow, repentance, or tears, or on any outward mean, which they are commanded to use: yet would they not lay aside these means, but go through them to the fountain, to Jesus, there and there only to be cleansed.  
7. They would not be discouraged or despair, when their spots appear great, and not like the spots of his children: for Christ's blood can purge from all sin; and wash away all their filth, of how deep so ever a die it, be. Christ's blood is so deep an ocean▪ that a mountain will be sunk out of sight in it, as well as a small peeble stone.  
8. Though Christ's blood be strong enough to purge from all sin, even the greatest; yet they would know, that scandalous spots, or a deep stain, may cost them more frequent running to the fountain, through humiliation, godly sorrow, prayer and supplication. David's scandalous blot cost him more trouble and pains, before he got it purged away, than many others, as we see Psal. 51.  
9 When all this is done, we must think of having on another righteousness, as our clothing and covering, in the day of our appearance before our judge, even the righteousness of Jesus Christ, which only is perfect, and able to save us from the wrath of God. Let us be never so washen in the matter of sanctification, and cleansed from our spots, we cannot for all that be accounted righteous before God: nor will that satisfy justice, or take away the guilt so much as of one transgression before God. Christ's righteousness will be ou●… upper-garment for all eternity: Ut his is the fine linen wherewith his bride is busked in heaven.  
10. At every time we run to the fountain, with our daily contracted filth, we would not forget to carry alongs with us the mother corruption, which is the sink and puddle of all filthiness: I mean, our natural corrupted rottenness and pollution, from whence flow all our other actual pollutions. We would do well to carry mother and daughter both together to the fountain. David prayeth to be washen and purged, as well from his original filthiness, wherein he was conceived and borne, as from his bloudguiltinesse Psal. 51: 5, 7.  
11. Let not this occasion our carelessness in watching against sin; for that would be to turn his grace into wantonness, but rather let it sharpen our diligence in watching against all occasions of sin, lest we again defile our soul.  
12. Not only must we have our bodies, or our outward conversation washen; but our soul within, the frame of our heart, our understanding, will, affections, and conscience sprinkled with that blood. The blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit, offered himself without spot ●…o God, must purge our consciences from dead works, to serve the living God. Heb. 9: 14. And we must have our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience. Heb. 10: 22.  
Finally. If the believer fear, that he shall not be able to remember all these particular duties, let him remember this, to wit. To put a ●…oule soul, defiled with original and actual pollutions, in Christ's hand, daily, and leave it with him to wash by his blood and Spirit. And yet remember to lay the weight of his acceptance before God, upon the imputed righteousness of jesus Christ, and not upon his own cleanness, when thus sanctified and washen, which is but imperfect.   

Questions or objections answered.  
But alas some may Object. and say, That their very faith which must carry the rest of their filth to the fountain of Christ's blood, is defiled; How then can they expect to be made clean? An. The blood of jesus Christ is sufficiently able to wash all our filth away; and the filth of faith, as well as of other actions: Therefore, when faith, as a hand, is carrying the filth of the soul away to Christ to be washen in his blood; let the foul hand go with the foul hand- bookful, give Christ faith and all to wash.  
2. But what shall I do, when notwithstanding of all this, my conscience shall still accuse me of uncleanness, and cry out against me as filthy and abominable? Ans. Take it away also to the blood of jesus, that there it may be purged Heb. 9: 14. and here alone will we get our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience. Heb. 10: 22. The conscience must be steeped (to speak so) in the blood of jesus, and so it shall be clean: and taking our filthy hearts to this cleansing fountain, to be washen, we will get them delivered, and sprinkled from an evil conscience, that it shall no more have ground of accusation against us: when we have it to say, that we have put our filthy souls in the hands of the great cleanser, Jesus Christ, and brought all our pollutions to his blood, what can conscience say to us? The Lord, it is true, may suffer our consciences still to bark upon us, and cast up our filthiness to us, that we may be the more humbled, and be put to lie more constantly at the fountain; yet when we have fled to Christ, and taken our filthiness to the open and appointed fountain, we can answer the accusations of conscience, in law, and have peace.  
3. But I am apt to think, will some say▪ That if I had once taken the right way, to get my sins & filthiness purged away, my conscience would trouble me no more; but now so long as it doggeth me thus, I cannot think, that the way, which I have taken, is the right way. Ans. Though the Lord may think good to suffer conscience to trouble a man for a time, though he hath taken the right way, as is said, for a further exercise and trial to him; yet the believer will have no loss nor disadvantage, by examineing his way, and trying whether he hath laid the matter, cleanly over on Christ, or whether he hath laid too much weight on his own humiliation, sorrow and pains; and whether he believing the matter on Jesus; and expecting to be washen alone in his blood, or looking in to himself, and expecting some help in the matter from self. And after trial would mourn for any failing he gets discovered: and still be about that work of running with filth to the fountain. But withal they would go to Christ for help, because without Him, they cannot come to Him, they cannot come or carry their soul to the fountain opened for sin and uncleanness. So that, in all this work, there would be a single dependence on Christ, for understanding, and strength to go about this work aright.  
Thus, have we endeavoured to clear up Christ's being the Way to the Father, first and last; and how all, believers or unbelievers, are to make use of him, as the way to the Father, whatever their condition be; from all which we may see▪ 1. That such are in a wretched and forlorn condition, who are still strangers to Christ▪ and will not lay hold on Him, nor come to Him, and walk in Him, and make use of Him. They are unrighteous and unholy, and daily contracting more guilt and more filth: and they know no way either for justification or sanctification, but a way of self, which will prove like the brooks, which run dry in summer & disappoint the weary traveller, when he hath most need. They are without Christ, and so without the way, the only way, the saife and sure way, to the Father. And oh! if all that is here spoken could induce them, to think once of the misery of their condition; and to seek out for relief, that they might not only be saved from their state of sin and misery; but brought into a state of salvation through Jesus Christ; so that they might be justified before God, from all that justice, the devil, the law, or conscience, could lay against them▪ and throughly sanctified; and so at length brought home to the Father, fair and spotless 2. Upon the other hand, we see the noble advantage of believers, who through grace are entered into this way; for it is a full and complete way, that shall carry them saife home: they shall find, that He is able to save to the uttermost all that come to God through Him. And O if▪ they were sensible of this! How would it excite them to thankfulness▪ How would it encourage them to run thorough difficulties great and many! 3. We see what a special duty lieth upon believers to make special use of Christ, in all things, as the way to the Father, and so march to heaven in Him, as the only way, march in his hands, or rather be carried in his arms and bosom. This were to go from strength to strength, till at length they appeared in Zion, and landed in that pleasant place of rest, where the weary are at rest, and yet rest not, day nor night, but sing praises to Him, that hath redeemed them by his blood, out of every kindred and tongue, and people and nation, saying blessing, honour, glory & power be unto Him, that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the lamb, forever and ever Revel. 5: 9, 13. 4. Hence we may see the cause of the leanness of believers, of their wander, of their short come▪ of their many defilements etc. viz. their not constant making use of Christ, as the way, in all things, according to the tenor of the gospel. Oh if this were laid to heart and mourned for, and if grace were sought to help it.  
This one point of truth. That Christ is the way, well understood, and ●…ghtly put into practice, would do all our business, both as to justification and sanctification, and were poor sinners once entered into this way, and had they grace from this way to walk in it, it would prove their life and salvation: for it is the marrow and substance of the whole gospel. So that there needeth little more to be said: yet we shall speak, a little to the other particulars in the text.    

CAP. X. The Truth. Some generals proposed.  
THat what we are to speak for the clearing and improving of this noble piece of truth. That Christ is the Truth, may be the more clearly understood and edifying, we shall first take notice of some generals, and then show particularly how, or in what respects, Christ is called the Truth, and finally speak to some cases, wherein we are to make use of Christ, as the Truth.  
As to the first. There are four general things here to be noticed.  
First This supposeth what our case by nature is, and what we are all without Christ, who is the Truth: as,  
Frst. It supposeth that without Christ, we are in darkness, mistakes, errors: yea we are said to be darkness itself Ephes. 5. 8. yea were sometimes darkness etc. john. 1: 5. and of darkness. 1 Thes. 5: 5. yea, under the ●…ower of darkness Col. 1: 13 john 12: 35. 1 john. 2: vers. 11. walking in darkness 1 john. 1: vers. 6. and abideing in darkness 1 Pet. 2: 9 1 Thes. 5: 4. john. 12: 46. we wander and go astray, as soon as we are borne speaking lies Psal. 58: 3. yea we go astray in the greatness of our folly Prov. 5. last. we are all gone astray Esai. 53: 6. See also Psal. 119: 67, 176. So far are we from any knowledge of, or acquaintance with Truth, or with the way of truth.  
Secondly it supposeth, that we cannot turne-in to the right way: a Spirit of error and untruth leadeth us continually wrong: like the sheep we wander still▪ and we weary ourselves in our wandering; and so spend all our labour and pains in vain. Being under the power of untruth and error, we cannot walk one step right.  
thirdly. Though all other ways, beside Him who only is the Way, and the Truth, be false ways, and byways, leading us away from the true testing place, and from that Way, which is the Truth; yet we are prone, and ready to cleave to those false and erroneous ways, to grippe to shadows▪ andto lean to them, as if they were the ways of truth: Such as  
1. A good heart, which many imagine they have, when they have nothing less.  
2. Good intentions and purposes for time to come, which such, as were not under the power of error and untruth, would never deceive themselves withal.  
3. An harmless life without scandalous out-breaking to the reproach of christianity: a foundation▪ on which 〈◊〉 wise man, led by truth, would build his salvation, or hopes of eternal happiness.  
4, An outward moral, civil and discreet carriage, which no man can blame, and wherein a heathen can outstripe many, called christians, so that it must be a poor ground to found our hopes upon, and yet many are so blinded, that they lean all their weight upon such a rotten staff.  
5. Outward exercise of religious duties, wherein a Pharisee may outstripe many: and yet O! how many build all their hopes of heaven upon this sandy foundation, which none but blinded persons would do.  
6. The commendation & applause of ministers & christians, is that which many rest upon: which is a sad proof of the blindness of their hearts.  
7. The way of good works and alms deeds, blindfoldeth many, and sheweth that they were never led by truth, or taught of Christ, who is the Truth.  
8. Some pinching grief and sorrow for sin, i●… another way, which people, strangers to the truth, deceive themselves withal.  
9 A common sort of repentance, backed with some kind of amendment and outward reformation, is away that many rest secure in, though it lead to destruction.  
10. Freedom from challenges of conscience, deceiveth many.  
Though these and such like ways be dangerous, yea deadly, yet how many is there to be found among christians, that have no better ground of their hope of salvation, and will cleave to them so fast, as no preaching will make them so much as once question the matter, or suspect that these ways will in end deceive them; so strong is their inclination to the way of error, though not as the way of error.  
Fourthly. It presupposeth also an inclineableness in us by nature to wander out of the way: for being nothing but a mass of error, made up of darkness, ignorance and mistakes, we have a strong bias to error, which agreeth best, with our natural corrupted temper. Hence is it, that we have such a strong propension to error and mistakes: Whether  
1. Concearning God, and his way of dealing with his Church or with ourselves. O how ready are our hearts by nature, to hatch and foment wrong, unseemly, untrue, yea unchristian, if not blasphemous thoughts and conceptions of his Nature, Attributes, Word, and Works? And how ready and prone are we, to receive and entertain wrong apprehensions of all his ways and dealings with his Church and people? And as for his works in and about ourselves▪ O what unsuitable, erroneous, false, ungodly, absurd and abominable opinions do we with greediness drink-in, and foster; yea feed upon with delight? Who is able to recount all the errors and mistakes, which our heart by nature is ready to admit, and foster with complacency? Are we not by nature ready to say, that there is not a God, as the fool Psal. 14: 1. Or That He is not such a God, as his word and works declare Him to be; a Holy, Just, Righteous, Omnipotent, Omnipresent, Omniscient God &c▪ Or that He is a changeable God, and actually changed, not being the same now, which sometime he was. That He hath forgotten to be gracious, and remembereth not his people in adversity; and so is not Tender and Merciful. That He hath forgotten his promises, and so is not Faithful and True. That he approveth of sin, because he suffereth the way of the wicked to prosper, and so is not an Holy God etc. Yea do not ofttimes such thoughts as these lodge within the heart of the truly Godly? All which showeth, how prone we are to receive and entertain erroneous and false thoughts of God.  
2. Concearning Ourselves, Supposeing ourselves to be borne again and reconciled to God, when yet we are living in black nature: and who so ●…old and confident that they are right, as such as are ●…thest out of the way? Or, on the other hand, sup●…osing ourselves to be in a bad state and in nature, 〈◊〉 darkness, when the day star from on high hath visited us, and brought our souls from death unto life. And who more ready to compleane, than such as have least cause? Or supposeing ourselves in a good condition, lively, active, diligent, watchful, etc. when it is just other ways with us: or on the contrary, compleaning of deadness, formality, upsitting, fainting, heartlessness in the ways of God, when it is not so. Or, in questioned matters, taking truth to be error, and error to be truth.  
3. Concearning Others. How ready are we to run either to the one extremity, or the other, in judging their persons, and actions?  
O! where is the faith of this natural condition? Where is the real conviction of it? Sure there is but little real believing of this, when  
1. There are so many, that never so much as suspect themselves, or question either their state or condition, at one time or other; never once imagine that their blinded hearts may deceive them; never once dream of a possibility of mistaking, and of dying with a lie in their right hand.  
2. And so many, that are not lamenting and bewailing this their condition, nor crying out and compleaning of a false deceitful and desperately wicked heart.  
3. And so few, that are indeed humbled unde●… the sense of this, and made therefore to walk mor●… watchfully and soberly with an eye always upo●… their treacherous and deceiving hearts.  
4. And so few, crying for help from God, against this deceitful adversary, through daily experience of the atheism, hypocrisy, ignoranc●… misconceptions of God and of his ways, and deceitfulness of our hearts, might sufficiently put it out of doubt with us.  
Next. How miserable must their condition be, who are yet strangers to Christ; for they are living in darkness, lying in darkness, walking in darkness, yea very darkness itself, a mass of error, mistakes, ignorance, and misconceptions of all things, that are good; and still wandering out of the way.  
Finally should not this preach out to, and convince us all of a necessity of having more acquaintance with Truth, with Jesus Christ, who is the Truth, that we may be delivered from this woeful and wretched condition: for Truth only can set us free therefrom.  
The Second general thing to be noticed here is. That all other ways and courses, which we can take or follow, that we may obtain life, beside Christ, are but lies, false and deceitful ways, there is no truth in them: for He only is the Truth, No other whatsoever can bear this epithet: for  
1. He only can satisfy the soul in all points: other ways, whatever we may imagine and dream, can yield no true satisfaction in this matter.  
2. He only can secure the soul from destructive ruinous courses, which will undo the soul: all other ways will fail here; none of them can give the least security to the soul, that they shall not bring him, in end, to destruction and everlasting perdition.  
3. He only can bring the soul saife through all opposition, and difficulties in the way: no other way can do this; but will leave us in the mire, ere ever we come to the end of our journay.  
4. He will not deceive nor disappoint the soul: all other ways, in end will prove treacherous, and give the traveller a doo●…ul and sad disappointment.  
O what a warning should this be to us all, to take heed, that we embrace not a lie, in stead of Him, who is the Truth: and sit not down with a shadow in stead of the substance. How ready are we to put other things in his place? But whatever it be, that gets his room in the soul, though good and worthy in itself, will prove a lie, Even. 1. All our outward holiness and duties: yea. 2. All our experiences and great attainments. Yea. 3. All our gifts and enduements. Ay. 4. Our very graces: none of these are Christ; and if we place that hope and confidence in them, which we should place on Him, they will not prove the Truth to us. He alone is the Truth.  
How sure then should we labour to be, that we do not die with a lie in our right hand: and how carefully should we guaird against the trusting in, or leaning to any thing that is not Christ, and whole Christ, and only Christ, and Christ as offered in the gospel: seeing this way is only the Truth. And no other way will be found so in end, though at present we may find in it.  
1. Some inward peace and quietness of heart, as if all were right.  
2. Some satisfaction of mind, things being right as we apprehend, butfalsly, through the deceitfulness of the heart.  
3. Something like assurance and confidence, tha●… all will be right with us.  
4. And hope founded thereupon, which may help to ride thorough some storms, and yet fail us atlength.  
The third general is this, Christ Jesus is not only the Truth in himself, but also in reference to us. The scope of the place cleareth this, as he is the Way and the Life, for our use; so he is the Truth. Not only as God equal with the Father, but also as Mediator, and our immanuel.  
As God, He is 1. Essentially Truth, being God equal with the Father, in power and glory.  
2. In respect of veracity, he is the God of truth Deut. 32: 4. faithful in all his sayings Psal. 31●… vers. 5. keeping truth for ever Psal. 146: 6.  
3. He is the fountain and spring head of all created truth, for he is the first truth.  
As Mediator, and in reference to us. He is full of grace and truth john. 1: 14. He received not the Spirit in measure john. 3: 34. and this Spirit is a Spirit of truth. But of this more, when we come to show more particularly, how and in what respects, he is called the Truth, as mediator.  
The fourth general, which is here observable▪ is, That he is not only called Truth, but the Truth, as he is the Way, and the Life: and not only true▪ but Truth, in the abstract: which sayeth.  
1. That He is every way Truth. how ever we consider him, as God, or as Mediator.  
2. That ●…ll Truth is in Him: all truth of salvation for us is to be found in Him.  
3. That all that is in him is truth, his Natures, Offices, Performances, Words, Works etc. all are true.  
4. That He is pure and unmixed Truth: no lie in Him, no error or mistake there.  
5. That truth in Him is in its perfection, and excellency: In the truest of men, it is very imperfect.  
O what an excellent one must He be? How completely fitted and furnished for us! Oh if our souls could love him, and close with him, and rest upon him as alsufficient!   

CHAP. XI. More particularly, in what respects Christ's is called the Truth.  
BUt for further explaineing of this matter, we would see more particularly, in what respects it is, that He is called the Truth; and this will make way to our use making of Him. So  
First He is the Truth, in opposition to the shadows and types of Him, under the law: Hence, as the law (the whole levitical and typical dispensation) came by Moses; so grace and truth came by jesus Christ john. 1: 17. They were all shadows of Him, and He is the substance and body of them all. Col. 2: 17. And this is true in these respects.  
1. All these shadows and types pointed at Him, and directed as with a finger the Israelites, who were under that dispersition, to look to Christ, the promised Messiah, and to rest, and to lay all their weight, on Him: so that the law was a shadow of good things to come Heb. 10: 1. Col. 2: 17.  
2. They all terminate in Him, He putting an end, by his coming and performing his work, to all those typs, which only related to Him, and to what He was to do: the body being come, there is no more need of the shadow, and the thing typified existing, there is no more need or use of the type.  
3. They are all fulfilled in Him, He answereth them all fully: so that what ever was shadowed forth by them is completely to be found in Him. This the Apostle in his Epistle to the Hebrews abundantly evinceth, and Paul to the Colossians tells us, we are complete in Him. and therefore need no more follow the shadows.  
Secondly He is the Truth in reference to the prophecies of old; all which did principally point at him, and his concearnments: his Person, Nature, Offices, Work, Kingdom, etc. and whatever was foretold in these prophecies, is perfectly fulfilled in Him, or done by Him, or shall in due time be effectuated by Him. He is that great prophet, spoken of Deut. 18: 15, 18, 19 So said the Jews themselves john. 6: 14. All the Prophets from Samuel spoke of Him, and of his days Act. 3. 22, 23, 24. And to Him gave all the Prophet's witness Act. 10. 43. And whatever they prophesied or witnessed of Him, was, or is in due time, to be fulfilled in Him. Hence we find the Evangelists and Apostles frequently applying the sayings and prophecies of the old testament unto Him, And Luk. 4: 18. himself said, that the prophecy of Esa 61: 1. etc. was fulfilled in him. See 1 Pet. 10: 11, 12. And Himself expounded to the two Disciples going to Emmaus, in all the scriptures, beginning at Moses, and all the prophets, all the things concerning himself Luk. 24: 27. And thus is He the truth of all the prophecies.  
Thirdly He is the Truth, in reference to his undertaking with the Father, in that glorious covenant of redemption: for whatever the Father laid on him to do, that He did fully and faithfully. He was to bear our griefs and to carry our sorrows, and that He did. He was to be wounded for our transgressions, and bruised for our iniquities, the chastisement of our peace was to be upon Him, and by his stripes we were to be healed Esai. 53: 5, and so it was Rom. 4: 25. 1 Cor. 15: 3. 1. Pet. 2: 23. His soul was to be made an offering for sin Esa. 53: 10. and so it was; for he offered up himself a sacrifice for sin: yea all that He was to do, by virtue of that covenant, he did it perfectly, so as he cried out, while hanging on the cross, it is finished. john. 19: 30. and in his prayer john. 17. he told the Father vers. 4. that He had glorified Him on earth, and had finished the work, which He gave him to do. So that the Father was well pleased with Him Mat. 3: 17. and 12: 18, and 17: 5. Mark. 1: 11. Luk. 3: 22.  
Fourthly He is the Truth, in respect of his Offices, which He took upon him for our good: for all the duties of these offices, which He was to do, & what remaineth to be done, He will perfect in due time. Did He take upon him the office of a Prophet? He did fully execute the same, in re●…aling mediately and immediately the whole counsel of God. john. 1: 18. and 15: 15. Ephes. 4: 11, 12, 13. Act. 20: 32. 1 Pet. 1. 10, 11, 12. Heb. 1: 2. Did He take upon him the office of a Priest, so did he fulfil the same, offering up himself an expiatory sacrifice to God. Heb. 9: 14, 28. and 2: 17. and becoming a Priest, living for ever to make intercession for us Heb. 7: 25. And, did He take on the office, and function of a King, so doth He execute the same, calling a people to himself out of the world by his word and spirit Act. 15: 14, 15, 16. Esa. 55. 4, 5. Psal. 110. 3. erecting a visible Church, a company of visible professors, to profess, and declare his name, which, as his kingdom, he ruleth, with his own Officers, Laws, and Penalties or Censures, so that the government is on his shoulders Esa. 9: 6, 7, who is the Head of the body the Church Ephes. 1: 22, 23. Col. 1: 18. and this his kingdom He ruleth, in a visible manner, by his own officers etc. Ephes. 4: 11, 12. 1 Cor. 12: 28. Esai. 33: 22. Mat. ●…8: 17, 18. 1 Cor. 5: 4, 5. and further he executes this office by effectually calling the elect, giving them grace Act. 5: 3. rewarding the obedient Revel. 22: 12. and 2. 10. chastiseing the disobedient Revel. 3: 19 bringing his own home at length▪ through all their temptations, afflictions, and overcoming all their enemies 1 Cor. 15. 25. Psal. 110. and at length, He shall do the part of a king, when He shall judge quick and dead, at the last day 2. Thes. 1: 8, 9 Act. 17: 31. 2. Tim. 4: 1.  
Fiftly He is the Truth, in this regaird, that He fully answereth all the titles and names, which he got▪ As he was called jesus, so did He save his people from their sins Mat. 1: 21. As He was called Christ; so was He anointed with the Spirit without measure john. 3: 34, Psal. 45. 7. and separated for his work, and endued with all power for that effect. john. 6: 27. Mat. 28: 18, 19, 20, and established to be a Prophet Act: 3: 21, 22. Luc. 4: 18, 21. a Priest Heb. 5: 5, 6. 7 and 4: 14. 15. and a King. Psal. 2. 6. Esa. 9: 6, 7. Mat. 21: 5. Phil. 2: 8, 9, 10. 11. Was He called Immanuel Esai. 7: 14. so was He indeed God with us, being God and Man in one person for ever: was he called wonderful, Esai. 9: 6. so was He indeed, in his two distinct natures in one person, at which the Angels may wonder Ephes. 3: 10, 11. 1 Pet. 1: 12. 1. Tim. 3: 16. was he called counsellor, so was He indeed, coming out from the Father's bosom, with the whole counsel of God concerning our salvation. john. 1: 14, 18. and 3: 13. and 5: 20, and 15: 15. was He called the mighty God; so was He indeed Psal, 110: 1. Mat. 22: 44. Heb. 1: 13. Psal. 45: 6. Heb. 1: 8. jer. 23: 6. and 33: 16. Mal. 3: 1. Matth. 11. 10 Psal. 83: 18. Luk. 1. 76. john. 1: 1, 14. 1 john. 5: 20. Tit. 2: 13. Rom. 9: 5. was He called the everlasting Father, so is He the father of eternity, being (as some interpret the word) the author of eternal life, which He giveth to all that believe in Him joh. 6. 39, 40, 47, 51. and 8: 51. and 10. 28. and 11: 25, 26. Heb. 5: 9 and 7: 25. was He called the Prince of peace, so is He the Prince of peace indeed, being our peace Mic. 5: 5. Eph. 2: 14. making up peace betwixt God and us Esa. 53: 5. and 57: 19 Eph. 2: 17. Col. 1: 20. Hence his gospel is the gospel of peace, and his Ministers ambassadors of peace Esa. 52: 7. Rom. 10: 15. 2 Cor. 5: 19, 20. Eph. 6: 15. And he giveth peace to all his Zach. 9: 10. joh. 14 27. and 16: 33. Rom. 5: 1. and 8, 16. and 14: 17. 2. Thes 3, 17. was He called the Lord our righteousness jer. 23, 6. So is He the same indeed, bringing in everlasting righteousness Dan. 9: 24. and being made of God to us righteousness 1. Cor. 1: 30. & making us righteous 2. Cor. 5: 21.  
Sixtly He is the Truth, in reference to the promises, which  
1. Centre all in Him, and lead to Him, as the great promise.  
2. Are founded all upon Him, who is the only Mediator of the covenant of promises.  
3. Are confirmed all by Him, and made yea and amen in Him 2 Cor. 1: 20. He confirmed the promises made to the fathers Rom. 15: 8.  
4. are all dispensed and given out by Him; who is the executor of his own testament, and the great dispensator of all that we need; so that what we ask of the Father, He giveth it himself, john. 14: 13, 14.  
Seventhly He is the Truth, in that He fully answereth all the hops and expectations of his people. He shall not be found a liar unto them, whatever Satan may suggest unto them, or a misbelieving heart may prompt them to conceive, and their jealousy may make them apprehend; and whatever his dispensations may now seem to say. In end they shall all find, that He is the Truth, fully satisfying all their desires: and granting all that ever they could hope for, or expect from Him. They shall at length be satisfied with his likeness Psal. 17: 15▪ yea abundantly satisfied with the fatness of his house Psal. 36: 8. and with his goodness Psal. 65: 4. and that as with marrow and fatness Psal. 63: 5. One sight of his glory will fully satisfy, and cause them cry out, enough. jeremiah is not now saying, as once he did in the bitterness of his soul, through the power of corruption and temptation Cap. 15: 18. will thou be altogether unto me as a liar, and as waters, that fail?  
Eightly. He is the Truth, in opposition to all other ways of salvation: for  
1. There is no salvation now by the law of works, that covenant being once broken ●…annot any more save: The law cannot now do it, in that it is weak through the flesh Rom. 8▪ 3.  
2. There is no salvation by the law of Moses: without Christ: hence Israel, which followed after the law of righteousness, did not attain to the law of righteousness, because they sought it not by faith, but as it were by the works of the law Rom. 9: 31, 32. They went about to establish their own righteousness, and did not submit themselves unto the righteousness of God. Rom. 10: 3.  
3. There is no salvation by any thing, mixed in with Christ, as the Apostle fully cleareth in his Epistle to the Galatians.  
4. There is no salvation by any other way or medium, which man can invent or fall upon, whereof there are not a few, as we showed above: for there is not another name given under heaven, by which we can be saved, but the name of jesus Act. 4: 12. No religion will save but this.  
So that He is the true savation, and He only is the true salvation; and He is the sure and saife salvation: such as make use of Him, shall not be mistaken nor disappointed Esai. 35: 8.  
Ninthly He is the Truth▪ In respect of his leading and guideing his people in the truth. Hence He is called a Teacher come from God, john. 3: 2. and one that teacheth the way of God in truth Ma●…. 22: 16. A Prophet mighty in deed and word Luk. 24: 19 And in this respect, He is the truth, upon several accounts.  
1. Of his personal teaching, God spoke by Him Heb. 1: 2. He revealed the Father's mind Mat. 11: 27. john. 1: 18.  
2. Of his messengers sent by Him, as Prophets of old, Apostles and ministers of late, whom he sendeth forth to make disciples Mat. 28: 18. and to open the eyes of the blind Act. 26: 18.  
3. Of his word, which He hath left as our rule, and which is a sure word of prophecy, more sure than a voice from he●…ven 2 Pet. 1: 19  
4. Of his ordinances, which He hath established as means to guide us in the way of truth.  
5. Of his Spirit, whereby He maketh the word clear john. 14: 26. This Spirit is sent to teach all truth, and to lead and guide in all truth joh. 16: 13. 1 john. 2: 27. and sent by Him, and by the Father in his name john. 14: 26: & 15: 16: & 16: 14▪  
6. Of his dispensations of providence, within us & without us, by which likewise he instructeth in the way of truth.  
Tenthly He is the Truth, in respect of his bearing witness to truth: and this He doth.  
1. By Himself, who was given for a witness Esa. 55: 4. and came to bear witness to the truth john. 3: 10. & 18: 37. and was a faithful witness Revel. 1: 5. & 3: 14.  
2. By his Ministers, who witness the tr●…th of the gospel, by publishing and proclaiming the same.  
3. By his Martyrs, who seal the truth with their blood, and so bear witness to it Revel. 2: 13. & 17: 6. Act. 22: 20.  
4. By his Spirit, sealing the truth of grace in a believer, and his interest in God through Christ, and his right to all the benefits of the new covenant. In whom also after ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise, which is the earnest of our inheritance. Ephes. 1: 13: 14.  
Eleventhly, He is the Truth, in respect that He carrieth towards poor sinners in all things, according to the tenor of the gospel, and the offers thereof: He offers himself to all freely, and promiseth to put none away that come to Him; and this He doth in truth; for no man can say, that he had a sincere and true desire to come to Jesus Christ, and that He rejected him, and would not look upon him. He giveth encouragement to all sinners to come; that will be content to quite their sins, and promiseth to upbr●…id none that cometh, and is there any that in their own experience can witness the contrary? He offers all freely, and did He ever reject any upon the want of a price in their hand? Nay, hath not the cause of their getting no admittence, been, that they thought to commend themselves to Christ by their worth: and would not take all freely, for the glory of his grace? Let believers and others speak here, out of their own experience, in truth and in uprightness; and it shall be found, that He was and is the Truth.  
Twelvely He is the Truth, in that, in all his dispensations of the gospel, and in all his works and actions, in and about his own people, He is true and upright: all his offers, all his promises, all his dispensations, are done in truth and uprightness, yea all are done out of truth and uprightness of love, true tenderness, and affection to them, whatever the corruption of jealousy and misbelief, think and say to the contrary: He is the Truth; And so always the same, unchangeable in his love, whatever his dispensations seem to say: And the believer may rest assured hereof, that He being the Truth. Shall be to him, whatever his word holdeth him forth to be, and that constantly and unchangeably.   

CAP. XII. Some general uses from this useful truth; that Christ is the Truth▪  
HAving thus cleared up this truth, we should come to speak of the way of believers making use of Him, as the Truth, in several cases, wherein they will stand in need of Him as the Truth. But ere we come to the particulars, we shall first propose some general uses of this useful point.  
First. This point of truth, serveth to discover to us the woeful condition of such, as are strangers to Christ, the Truth: and oh if it were believed! for  
1. They are not yet delivered from that dreadful plague of blindness, error, ignorance, mistakes, under which all are by nature, a condition, that, if rightly seen, would cause the soul lie low in the dust.  
2. Whatever course they take, till they come to Christ, and while they remain in that condition, is a lie, and a false, erroneous, and deceitful way: for still they are turning aside to lies Psal. 40: 4. and seeking after them Psal. 4: 2.  
3. Whatever hopes and confidence they may have, that their way shall carry them thorough; yet in end they will be found to inherit lies jer. 16: 19▪ and meet with the saddest disappointment that can be: for in stead of the followshipe of God, Christ, angels, and glorified spirits, they shall take up their lodging with devils and damned souls: and that because they have made no acquaintance with the way of truth; and the way wherein they are is but a lie, and a falsehood: and so of necessity must deceive them.  
4. All their literal and speculative knowledge shall not avail them, so long as they are strangers unto Him, who is the Tr●…th. Their knowledge is but ignorance because it is not a knowledge of Him, who is the Truth.  
5. They have none to go to, for help and light, in the day of their darkness, confusion and perplexity: for they are not reconciled unto the Truth, which alone can prove steadable and comfortable in that day.  
6. They can do nothing to help themselves out of that state of darkness and ignorance; and whatever they do to help themselves, shall but increase their darkness, and misery: because there is no truth there, and Truth▪ even the Truth, alone can dispel these clouds of error, mistakes, ignorance, etc.  
Secondly. Hence we see the happy and blessed condition of believers, who have embraced this Truth, and gotten their souls opened to Him, who is the Truth: for,  
1. They are, in part, delivered from that mass of lies, mistakes, misapprehensions, errors, deceitfulness and ignorance, under which they lay formerly, and all the unregenerate do yet lie: and though they be not fully delivered therefrom, yet the day is coming when that shall be, and the begun work of grace and truth in them is a certain pledge thereof: and at present they have ground to believe, that that evil shall not again have dominion over them, they being now under grace, and under the guidance of Truth.  
2. Howbeit they have many perplexing thoughts, doubts and fears of their state and condition, and think many a time, that they shall one day or other perish by the way; and all their hopes and confidence shall evani●…h; yet having given up themselves to Truth, and to the Truth, they shall not be disappointed in end. The Truth shall land them saife on the other side. The Truth shall prove no lie.  
3. They have a fast and steadable friend to go to, in a day of darkness, clouds, doubts, when falsehood and lies are like to prevail, even the Truth, who alone can help them in that day.  
4. Howbeit the knowledge they have of God, and of the mysteries of the gospel, be but small; yet that small measure, being taught by Him, who is the Truth, and flowing from Truth, shall prove sanctifying and saving.  
5. They have ground to hope for more freedom from errors and deceitful lies, than others: for they have chosen the way of truth, and given themselves up to the leading of Truth.  

Object. But do not even such drink-in and receive and plead for errors, as well as others: and is it not sometime found, that they even live and die in some mistakes and errors?  
Answer I grant the Lord may suffer even some of his own to fall into, and to continue for some time in errors, yea and it may be all their days, as to some errors, that hereby, all may learn to tremble and fear, and to work out their salvation with fear and trembling. 2. Some may be tried thereby Dan. 11: 35. 3. Others may break their neck thereupon. 4. To punish themselves, for not making that use of Truth, and of the Truth, that they should have done: yet we would consider these few things.  
1. That there are many moe unregenerat persons that fall into error  
2. If his people fall into error at any time, they do not always continue therein to the end. God for his own glory maketh, some time or other, truth shine in upon their soul, which discovereth that mistake, and presently, the grace of God in their soul maketh them to abhor the same.  
3 Or if some continue in it to their dieing day; yet they repent of it, by an implicit repentance, as they do of other unknown, and unseen evils, that lie in their soul; so that that error doth not destroy their soul.  
4 There are some gross errors, which a regenerate soul cannot readily embrace, or, if, through a mistake, or the power of a temptation, they do embrace them, yet they cannot heartyly close with them, whatever for a time, through corruption and pride, they may seem outwardly to do: and that because the very daily exercise of grace, will discover them; and so they will be found to be against their daily experience; as some opinions of the Papists, Arminians and Socinians, together with the abominable Quakers, which a gracious soul, when not carried away with the torrent of corruption, and with the tempest of a temptation, cannot but observe to contradict the daily workings of grace in their soul, and the motions of their sanctified soul, in prayer and other holy duties; and so such as they cannot but find to be false by their own experience.  
Thirdly. Here is ground of a sharp reproof of the wicked, who continue in unbeleef; and  
I Will not believe, nor give any credit to his promises, wherewith He seeketh to allure poor souls to come to Him for life.  
2 Nor will they believe His threatenings, wherewith He useth to alarm souls, and to pouse them forward to their duty.  
3 Nor will they believe and receive His offers, as true.  
4 Nor will they believe, that He is the true Prophet, Priest, and king, that must save souls from hell and death, and therefore they will not give Him employment in his offices.  
All which cannot but be an high provocation: for in effect, it is to say, that He is not the Truth, nor worthy to be believed. Let them consider this, and ●…ee how they think, he shall take this off their hands. No man will take it well, that another should either call or account Him a liar: and can they think, that Christ shall take it well, at their hands, to be accounted by them a liar? What will they think to be challenged for this, in the great day? Now the truth is, all unbelievers, as they make God a liar (o horrid and abominable crime! Whose hair would not stand on end to hear this?) 1 john. 5: 10, 11,— He that believeth not God, hath made him a liar, because he believeth not the record, that God gave of his Son, and this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life; and this life is in his Son. So do they make the Son of God a liar, in all his sayings, in all his Offices, and in all his works: And they make the holy ghost a liar, in not believing that truth, that He hath sealed as a firm truth. They make the covenant of surtyshipe betwixt the Father and the Son a mere lie, and a forgery, o dreadful! They make the word of truth a lie, and they make all the saints liars, and all the officers of jesus Christ, who declare this truth, and the saints, who believe it and test upon it, liars.  
Fourthly. Hence is there ground of reproof to the godly, in that  
1. They do not firmly enough believe his sayings, neither his promises, nor his threatenings, as appeareth too oft upon the one hand, by their faintings and fears; and upon the other hand, by their carelessness and loose walk.  
2. They make not use of Him, in all cases, as they ought: his offices lie by and are not improven, no●… is He gone to as the Truth, in cases requireing his help, as the Truth; that is; in cases of darkness, doubtings, confusion, ignorance of their case and condition, and the like.  
3. They do not approach to Him, nor to God through Him heartyly, and cordially, as the very Truth, and true way.  
4. Nor do they rest with confidence upon Him, in all difficulties, as being the Truth, that will not fail them, nor disappoint them.  
5. Nor do they rejoice in Him, as satisfied with Him, who is the Truth, in the want of all other things.  
Fiftly. The right consideration of this truth, should keep us in mind of several great duties: such as those,  
1. Of pitying those places, where this truth is not heard of, as among Turks and Heathens: or where it is darkened with superstition and men's inventions, as among Papists: or where it hath been clearly shineing, but now is darkened; as in some churches now under the prevailing power of corruption: or lastly where it is not received in its power & lustre, as alas it is too little received in the best and purest churches.  
2. Of being thankful to Him, for making this truth known in the world, and particularly in the place, where we Were borne, or had our abode; and yet more, for that he hath determined our hearts to a believing of this Truth, in some weak measure; to an imbraceing of it, and to a giving of ourselves up to be led, ruled and guided thereby.  
3. Of esteeming highly of every piece of Truth for his sake, who is the Truth; studying it for his sake, loving it for his sake; holding it fast for his sake; witnessing to it, as we are called, for his sake: we should buy the truth, and not sell it Prov. 2●…: 23. and we should plead for it, and be valiant for it Esai. 59: 4, 14. jer. 7: 28. & 9; 3.  
4. Of taking part with Him, and his cause, in all hazards, for Truth is always on his side, and truth shall prevail at length.  
5. Of giving Him employment in our doubts & difficulties, whether (1) they be about some controverted points of truth, which come to be debated, and to trouble the Church: or (2) about our own estate and condition, quarrelled at by Satan, or questioned by the false heart: or (3) about our carriage in our daily walk. In all these and the like, we should be employing Truth, that we may be led in truth, and taught by truth, to walk in sure paths.  
6. Of carrying in all things before Him as true: for He is Truth, and the Truth; and so cannot be deceived, and therefore we should walk before Him in sincerity and singleness of heart, without guile, hypocrisy, or falsehood, that we may look like children of the truth; and of the day, and of light, and children that will not lie or dissemble. Esa. 63: 8. not like these, that lied unto Him Psal. 78: 38. Esa. 59: 13.  
7. Of taking Him only for our guide to heaven, by denying our own wit, skill and understanding; and looking to and resting upon Him, who alone is the Truth, and so acknowledging Him in all our ways, depending on Him for light and counsel, with singleness of heart, humility, diligence, and truth in the inward parts.  
8. Of giving up ourselves daily unto Him, and his guidance, and denying our own wills, humours, parties, or opinions: for He alone is Truth, and can only guide us aright: and for this cause, we would acquaint ourselves well with the word, which is our rule, and seek after the Spirit, whom Christ hath promised, to lead us into all truth.  
Sixtly, should not this be a strong inducement to all of us, to lay hold on and gripe to Him, who is the Truth, and only the Truth? seeing,  
1. All other ways, which we can take, will prove a lie to us, in end.  
2. He is substance and no shadow, and all that love Him shall inherit substance: for He will fill all their treasures Prov: 8: 21.  
3. Such as Embrace Him, shall not wander, not be misled: for his mouth shall speak truth; and wickedness is an abomination to his lips Prov. 8: 7. all the words of his mouth are in righteousness and there is nothing froward or perverse in them verse. 8. He is wisdom and dwelleth with prudence, and findeth out knowledge of witty inventions verse. 12. Counsel is his and sound wisdom, he hath understanding and strength. verse. 14.  
4. He will make good all his promises in due time, and give a subsistence and a being to them all, for He is the Truth, and the truth must stand to his promises, and fulfil them all.  
5. He will never, nay never, leave his people, not forsake them. Heb. 13: 5. He is Truth, and cannot deceive; he cannot forsake nor disappoint: He is a spring of water, whose waters fail not Esai. 58: 11. Therefore they cannot be disappointed in end, and perish, who trust to Him.  
6. The truth will make them free john. 8: 3●…▪ 36. and so deliver them from their state of sin and misery, wherein they lay as captives; and from that spiritual bondage and slavery, under which they were held.  
Seventhly, This to believers may be a spring of consolation, in many cases, as  
1. When error and wickedness seem to prospe●… and prevail: for though it prevail for a time; yet Truth will be victorious at length, and the Truth will overcome all. He is Truth, and will plead for truth.  
2. when friends, acquantances, relations, fail them; and father and mother forsake them, truth will take them up: He who is the Truth will answer his name, and never deceive, never forsake.  
3. When riches, honours, pleasures, or what else their heart hath been going out after, prove like summer brooks: for the Truth will be the same to them in all generations; there is no shadow of turning with Him. The Truth is always truth, and true.  
4. When we fear, that either ourselves or others shall fall away, in a day of trial, and turn from the truth. Though all men prove liars and deceivers, Truth will abide the same, and stand out all the blasts of opposition.  
5. When unbeleef would make us question the truth of the promises. The faith of his being Truth itself, and the Truth, even Truth in the abstract, would shame unbeleef out of countenance. Shall Truth fail? Shall not the Truth be true? what a contradiction were that!  
6. When we know not how to answer the objections of Satan, and of a false treacherous heart: for Truth can easily answer all cavils: and He who is the Truth, can repel all objections against truth. Truth is impregnable, and can stand against all.  
7. When we cannot know, nor discover the wiles and subtlety of Satan. Truth can discover the depths of Satan, and make the poor soul more acquaint with them; so that they shall not any more be ignorant of his devices, who look to Him.  
8. when the thoughts of the deceitfulness of our hearts trouble us, the depth whereof we cannot search. This than may comfort us, that Truth can ●…earch the heart, and the reins jer. 17. 9, 10.  
9 When we cannot tell what our disease and distemper is, and so cannot seek suitable remedies, or help from God, O what a comfort is it, to know and believe, that He is the Truth, with whom we have to do, and so knoweth our distemper perfectly, & all its causes and symptoms, Truth cannot be at a stand in discerning our disease; so nor can he be ignorant of the fittest and only saifest cures.  
10. When we know not what to ask in prayer, as not knowing what is best for us; it is comfort to remember, that we have to do with the Truth, that is perfectly acquanted with all that, and knoweth what is best.  
11. When we know not how to answer the calumnies of adversaries. It is comfortable to know that he is the Truth, that will hear truth, when men will not; and will own and stand for the truth, when enemies do what they can to darken an honest man's good cause. It is comfortable to know, we have the Truth to appeal to, as David had Psal 7: and 17.  
12. When we think on our own covenant-breaking, and dealing deceitfully with God. It is comfortable to remember that, though we and all men be liars, and deal deceitfully with Him, yet He is the Truth and will keep covenant for ever, He will not, He cannot deny himself. 2 Tim. 2: 1●…  
Eightly, Hence we may certanely conclude, that truth, which is Christ's cause, shall at length prevail: for He is Truth, yea the Truth, and so abideth truth; therefore must He prevail, and all the mouths of liars must be stopped. So then let us remain persuaded, that truth at length shall be victorious, and that the cause of Christ shall have the victory: though  
1. The enemies of truth, and of the cause of Christ be multiplied, and many there be that rise up against it.  
2. These enemies should prosper, and that for a long time, and carry on their course of error and wickedness with a high band.  
3. There should be few found to befriend truth, and to own it, in an evil day.  
4. Yea many of those, that did some time own it, and plead for it, should at length turn their back upon it, as did Demas.  
5. And such, as continue constant and faithful, be loaded with reproaches and pressed under with sore persecution, for adhering to truth, and owning constantly the good cause.  
6. Yea though all things in providence should seem to say, that truth shall not rise again, but seem, on the contrary, to conspire against the same.  
Nenthly, May we not hence read, what should be our way and course, in a time, when a spirit of error is gone abroad, and many are carried off their feet therewith, or when we are doubtful what to do, and what side of the disput to take. O than is the fit time for us to employ Truth, to live near to Him, who is the Truth, to wait on Him, & hang upon Him, with singleness of heart.   

Object. But many even of his own people do err and step aside.  
Ans. That is true: but yet 1. That will be no excuse to thee. Nay 2. That should make thee fear and tremble more. 3. And it should press thee, to lie near to Christ, and to wrestle more earnestly with Him, for the spirit of light and of truth, and to depend more constantly and faithfully upon Him, with singleness of heart, and to give up thy soul and ways to Him, as the God of Truth, and as the Truth, that thou mayest be led into all truth.  
Tenthly, This should stir us up, to go to Him, and make use of Him, as the Truth, in all cases, wherein we may stand in need of truth's hand to help us: and for this cause we would mind those particulars.  
1. We would live in the constant conviction of our ignorance, blindness, hypocrisy, readiness to mistake a●…d err. This is clear and manifest, and proved to be truth by daily experience; yet how little is it believed, that it is so with us? Do we see and believe the atheism of our hearts? Do we see and believe the hypocrisy of our hearts? are we jealous of them, as we ought to be? Oh that it were so! let this then be more minded by us.  
2ly. Let us live in the persuasion of this, that He only, and nothing below Him, will be able to clear our doubts, dispel our clouds, clear up our mistakes, send us light, and manifest truth unto us: Not our own study, pains, prayers, duties, learning, understanding; not Ministers, or professors, and experienced Christians, and the like.  
3ly. We should be daily giving up ourselves to Him, as the Truth, in all the forementioned respects; and receiving Him into our souls as such, that He may dwell and abide there▪ Then shall the truth make us free; and if the Son make us free, we shall be free indeed joh. 8: 36.  
4ly. There would be much single dependence on Him, for light, instruction, direction, and guidance, in all our exigences.  
5ly. Withal, there would be a waiting on Him, with patience, giving him liberty to take his own way and time, and a leaving of Him thereunto.  
6ly. We should, by all means, guaird against such things as are hinderenees, and will prove obstacles to us, in this matter: such as,  
1. Praejudices against the truth: for than we will undervalue light, and reject all the directions and instructions of the Spirit, as not agreeing with our prejudicated opinion.  
2▪ A wilful turning away from truth, as these 2. Tim. 4: 4. Tit. 1: 14.  
3. addictedness to our own judgements and opinions, which causeth pertinaciousness, Pride, and conceit, as thinking ourselves so wise, as that we need no information: and this occasioneth a self confidence.  
4. Looking too much unto, and hanging too much upon Men, who are but instruments; crying them up as infallible, and receiving, without further examination▪ all that they say, not like the Bereans: Act. 17. This is a great hinderence to the receiving of truth▪ and very prejudicial.  
5. A neglecting of the use of the means, which God hath appointed for this end.  
6. Or an hanging too much on them, and so misplaceing them, g●…ving them His room.  
7. Leaning too much to our own understanding, wit and knowledge etc.  
8. A resisting of the Truth 2. Tim, 3: 8.  
These and the like hindrances would be guarded against, lest they mar our attaining to the knowledge of Truth.  
7ly There would be much of the exercise of prayer: for this is the main conduit, and mean, through which light is conveyed into the soul. There would also be a serious and Christian reading and hearing of the word, which is Truth, and the Word of Truth, and the Scripture of Truth, and those duties would be gone about, with (1) much self denial (2) with much singleness of heart. (3) with much humility. (4) with much willingness and readiness to be instructed. (5) with much seriousness and earnestness: and (6) with faith and dependence on God, for his blessing and breathing.  
8ly We would beware, as of trusting to our own understandings, so to the judgements of other men: nor would we look to what suiteth most our own humours, nor to what appeareth most specious and plausible: for that may deceive us.  
9ly We would lie open to the influences and rays of light, by exerciseing faith in earnest desires, as also patient waiting for and single looking to Him: minding his name and his relations, promises and engagements; for the strengthening of our faith, and confidence.  
10ly We would labour to keep fast, whatever He teacheth us by his word and spirit; & not prove ●…ecking vessels. This the Apostle exhorteth to Heb: 2: 1. Therefore we ought to give the more e●…rnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip: yea and we should be established in the Truth 2. Pet, 1: 12.  
11ly We would beware of resting on a form of the truth, as those did, of whom we read Rom. 2: ●…0. and of holding the truth in unrighteousness, as these Rom. 1: 18. and of disobeying it as these mentioned Rom. 2: v. 8. see also Gal. 3: v. 1. and 5: v. 7.  
12ly But on the contrary, we would so receive truth, as that it might ●…ule and be master in us▪ captivate judgement, will and affections, and break out into the practice: and this comprehendeth several duties, such as  
1. To have the Truth in us; whileas if we practise otherwise, the truth is not in us 1. john. 1: v. 8. and 2: v. 4.  
2. To be of the Truth, as belonging to its jurisdiction, power and command 1. john. 3: 19 john. 18: 37.  
3. To do the Truth, by having true followshipe with Him. 1. john. 1: 6▪ and to walk in the Truth 2, joh. 4. 3. joh. 4. Psal. 86: 11.  
4. To have the loins girt with truth Ephes. 6: v. 14.  
5. To receive the love of the truth ●… Thes▪ 2: 10.  
6. To be instructed of him, as the truth is in Iesu●… Ephes. 4: 21.  
7. To purify the soul in obeying the truth. 1 Pet. 1: v. 22.  
This shall suffice for clearing up and applying, in the general, this excellent truth, That Christ is the Truth. We shall now come and make some more particular use of this precious point, by speaking to some particular cases (which we shall instance in, by which the understanding christian may be helped to understand how to carry and how to make use of Christ, in other, the like cases) wherein Christ is to be made use of, as the Truth; and show how believers are to make use of Him, in these cases, as the Truth.    

CHAP. XIII. How to make use of Christ, as the Truth, for growth in knowledge.  
IT is a commanded duty, that we grow in the knowledge of jesus Christ. 2 Pet. 3. last. And the knowledge of Him being life eternal joh. 17: 3. and our measure of knowledge of Him here being but imperfect, for we know but in part; it cannot but be an useful duty, and a desirable thing, to be growing in this knowledge. This is to walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, to be increasing in the knowledge of God. Col. 1: 10. Knowledge must be added unto virtue; and it layeth a ground for other christian virtues 2 Pet. 1: 5, 6. In this knowledge, we must not be barren 2 Pet. 1: 8. And this being so necessary, so desirable, and so useful, and so advantageous a grace, the believer cannot but desire to have more and more of it. Especially seeing it is a part of the image of God Col. 3: vers. 10.  
Now, it is the Truth that must teach them here, first and last. The light of the knowledge of the glory of God must be had, in the face of jesus Christ 2 Cor. 4: 6. The question therefore is, how we should make use of Jesus Christ for this end, that we may attain to more of this excellent knowledge?  
For clearing of this, I shall propose those directions.  
First. It is good to live in the constant conviction of a necessity of his teaching us, and this taketh in those particulars,  
1. That we should be conscious of our ignorance, even when we know most, or think we know most, remembering that the best knoweth but in part 1 Cor. 13: 9 The more true knowledge we attain to, the more will we see and be convinced of our ignorance; because the more we know, the more will we discover of the vastness, and incomprehensibility of that object, which is proposed to our knowledge.  
2. That we should remember, how deceitful our hearts are; and how ready they are to sit down upon a shadow of knowledge, even when we know nothing, as we ought to know. 1 Cor. 8. vers. 2. and this will keep us jealous, and watchful.  
3. And to help forward our jealousy of our own hearts, and watchfulness, we would remember, that our hearts naturally are averse from any true and saving knowledge: whatever desire there be naturally after knowledge of hidden things, out of curiosity; and of things natural; or of thing●… spiritual, as natural, for the perfection of nature, as might be pretended, whereby in effect those that increase knowledge, increase sorrow Eccles. 1: 18. yet there is no inclination after spiritual and saving knowledge, in us naturally: But an aversation of heart therefrom.  
4. That we should study and know the absolute necessity of this knowledge: how necessary it is for our christian communion with God, and christian walk with others; how necessary for our right improving of dispensations, general and particular; what a noble ornament of a christian it is, and a necessary piece of the image of God, which we have lost;  
Secondly. Upon these grounds mentioned, 〈◊〉 would also be convinced of this; That of ourselves, and by all our natural parts, enduements, quickness and sagacity, we cannot attain to this saving knowledge; which is a special and saving grace, and so must be wrought in the soul, by a divine hand, even the mighty power of God. By our private study and reading, we may attain to a literal, heady, and speculative knowledge, that will puff us up 1 Cor. 8: 1. but thereby shall we never attain to this knowledge, which is spiritual, hearty, and practical, and so saving. We must have the anointing here, which teacheth us all things. 1 john. 2: 27. And of this we would be persuaded, that we may look to a higher hand, for light, and instruction.  
Thirdly, There would be an eyeing of Christ's furniture and fitness, for this work of teaching of us. To wit,  
1. An eyeing of Him, as the substantial wisdom of the Father Prov. 8.  
2. An eyeing of Him, as one come out of the bosom of the Father john. 1: 18. and so sufficiently enabled to acquaint us with the mysteries of God, for salvation.  
3. An eyeing of Him, as mediator, fully endued with all necessaries for this piece of his work, and so, having received the Spirit without measure, for this end john. 3: 34. and as having hid in Him, all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge Col. 2: 3. and as having all fullness dwelling in Him Col. 1: 19 Sed also Esai. 11: 2, & 61: 1, 2.  
4. An eyeing of Him, as having power to send the Spirit, that anointing that teacheth us all things, and is truth and is no lie 1 john. 2: 20, 27. not only by way of intercession and entreaty, begging it of the Father john. 15: 16, 17. But also authotatively, as conjunct with the Father. The Father sendeth Him in Christ's name john. 14: 26. and Christ sendeth Him from the Father john. 15: 26. and this Spirit of truth, which guideth into all truth, shall receive of Christ's, & show it unto us john. 16: 13, 14, 15.  
Fourthly. There would be an eyeing of Christ's readiness, willingness and engadgment to help, in this case: and this will encourage the soul to go forward: And for this cause we would remember those things.  
1. That He standeth obliged to help us with instruction, by virtue of his office, as a Prophet, a Witness, a Leader, and a Commander, Esai. 55: vers. 4.  
2. That He is commissionated of the Father for this end, and so is the Father's servant; and is given for a light to the gentiles Esai. 42: 6. & 49: 6. and the Father is said to speak by Him, or in Him Heb. 1: 1.  
3. That He received his gifts and qualifications for this end and purpose, that He might give out and dispense to his members, according to their necessity: as is clear from Psal. 68: 18. compared with Ephes. 4: 8. what He is said to have received, in the one place, he is said to have given, in the other.  
4. That He hath begun this work already, by his Spirit, in his followers; and therefore standeth engaged, to see it perfected: for all his works are perfect works.  
5. That He hath a love to his scholars, and a desire to have them all thriveing, and making progress in knowledge; this being his glory, who is their master and teacher.  
6. That He laid down wa●…es and means, and a constant course, for instructing of his people: for.  
(1.) He hath given his word, and settled and established ordinances, for this end.  
(2.) He hath established a ministry for instructing his people Ephes. 4: 8, 9, 10, 13.  
(3.) He hath gifted persons for this work of the ministry, 1 Cor. 12: 4, 5, 6 7, 8, 9, 10, 11.  
(4.) He backeth these officers, in the faithful administration of their function, and, through his blessing and Spirit, maketh their work prosperous and effectual, in his own, as He seeth fit.  
Fiftly. There would be an eyeing of the promises of the covenant of grace, made for this end, whether general, or particular, or both. Such as those which we have Esai. 11: 9 Habbak. 2: 14. The earth shall be filled with the knowledge of the Lord (or of the glory of the Lord) as the waters cover the sea: and that Esai. 32: 4. the heart of the rash shall understand knowledge etc. and jer. 31: 34. They shall all know me etc.  
Sixtly. There would be a constant, diligent, serious and single useing of the means of knowledge, with a faithful dependence on Christ by faith, gripping to him, in his relations, offices, engagements and promises, and waiting upon his breathing, in hope and patience Psal. 25: 5.  
Seventhly. There would be a guairding against every thing, that may obstruct this work, and grieve Him, in it: and therefore we would beware.  
1. To undervalue and have a little esteern of knowledge: for this will grieve Him, and, to speak so, put him from work.  
2. To misimprove any measure of knowledge, he giveth.  
3. To weary of the means and ordinances, whereby He useth to convey knowledge in to the soul.  
4. To limit the holy one of Israël to this, or that mean, to this or that time, or to this or that measure, who should have a latitude, as to all these.  
5. To despise the day of small things, because we get not more.  
6. To be too curious in seeking after the knowledge of hidden mysteries, the knowledge whereof is not so necessary.  
7. To lean too much unto, and to depend too much upon the ordinances or instruments, as if all, or any thing, could come from them.  
Eightly There would be a right improving of any measure of knowledge we get, to his glory and to the edification of others, with humility & thankfulness, and so a putting of that talon in use, to gain more to his glory: whatever measure of knowledge we get, we should in all haste, put it into practice; and set it to work: so shall it increase, and engage Him to give more.  
Ninthly. There would be a lying open to Christ's instructions, and to the shineings of the Spirit of light and of truth, and a ready receiving of what measure He is pleased to grant or infuse: which includeth those duties.  
1. A serious and earnest hungering and thirsting after more spiritual knowledge.  
2. A diligent use of every approven mean for this end.  
3. A going about the means with much self denial, spirituality▪ singleness of heart and sincerity, looking to and depending upon Him, who must breathe upon the means, and make them useful.  
4. A greedy receiving, drinking in, and treasureing up in the soul, what is gotten.  
5. A guairding against Selfish and by ends, with a single eyeing of his glory.  
6. A guairding against pride in the heart, and a stustying of humility and meekness: for the meek will He guide in judgement, and the meek will He teach his way Psal. 2▪ 5: 9  
7. A putting of the heart, or understanding in his hand, together with the truth, that is heard and received, that He may write the truth in the heart, and cause the heart receive the impression of that truth.  
Tenthly. There would be a rolling of the whole matter by faith on Him, as the only teacher, a putting of the ignorant, blockish, averse, and perverse heart, into his hand, that He may frame it to his own mind, and a leaving of it there, till He by his Spirit, write in it what He thinketh meet, to his own glory, and our good.  
And sure, were this way followed, growth in knowledge would not be so rare a thing as it is.  

Cautions.  
For further direction and caution in this matter, the believer would take notice of these particulars.  
1. That he should not sit down upon any measure of knowledge he hath attained to, or can attain to here, as if he had enough, and should labour for no more: but he should still be minding his duty of seeking, and pressing for more.  
2. Whenever he is about any mean of knowledge, such as preaching, reading, conference etc. his heart should be only upon Christ: He should be hanging on his lips for a word of instruction; and with greediness looking for a word from his mouth: he would be sending many posts to heaven, many ejaculatory desires for light and understanding, and that with singleness and sincerity, and not for base ends, or out of hypocrisy.  
3. Let him not think, that there is no growth in knowledge, because possibly he perceiveth it not, or is not satisfied, as to the measure thereof; yea though possibly he perceive more ignorance, than ever he did before: If he grow in the knowledge of his own ignorance, it is a growth of knowledge not to be despised: and in a manner, what can we else know of God, but that He far transcendeth all our knowledge, and that He is an incomprehensible one, in all his ways?  
4. Let him not think, that there is no growth in knowledge, because he perceiveth not a growth in the knowledge of such or such a particular, which he desireth most: for if there be a growth in the knowledge of other particulars, necessary to be known, there is no reason to compleane. If one grow▪ not, as he supposeth, in the knowledge of God, and of the mysteries of the gospel; yet if he grow in the discovery of the treachery and wickedness of his own heart, he cannot say, that he groweth not in knowledge.  
5. Let him not measure his growth in knowledge, by his growth in the faculty of speaking and discoursing of such or such points of Religion: many measure their knowledge by their tongue, and think they know little because they can express little; and so they think they attain to no increase or growth in knowledge, because they perceive no growth or increase in this faculty of discoursing, and talking of such or such points of truth. It is saifer to measure their knowledge by the impression that the truth hath on their spirits, and the effects of it on all their carriage, than by their ability or skill to talk and disput of it.  
6. Let them beware to imagine, that they shall be able to search out the almighty unto perfection, canst thou (said Zophar job. 11: 7, 8, 9) by searching find out God? canst thou find out the almighty unto perfection? He is as high as heaven, what canst thou do? deeper than hell, what canst thou know? The measure thereof is longer than the earth▪ and broader than the sea. Or that they shall be able ever to win to the bottom of their own false deceitful heart, which, as jeremiah sayeth Cap. 17: 9 is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked, who can know it? And which is God's prerogative alone to search and try. vers. 10. Neither let them think, so long as they are here, to win to an exact and perfect knowledge of the mysteries of God, wherein is the manifold wisdom of God Ephes. 3: 10. which very Principalities and powers in heavenly places are learning; and which the Angels are poreing and looking into with desire 1. Pet. 1: 12. There is no perfection in knowledge to be had here: for here the best but knoweth in part, and prophesyeth in part. 1 Cor. 13: 4.  
7. Let them not think that every one shall have the same measure of knowledge▪ Every one hath not the like use for it, or the like capacity for it. There is a measure proportioned to every one: They should not then complean, because they have not such a measure of knowledge, as they perceive in some others. It may be, the Lord hath some harder piece of service, which calleth for more knowledge, to put others to. Let every one then mind his duty faithfully, and conscientiously, and let him not quarrel with God, that he attaineth not to such a measure of knowledge, as he seeth others attain unto.  
8. Neither let them think, that the same measure is required of all: for more is required of some, by reason of their office and charge, in the house of God, being called to teach and instruct others; than of others: and so more is required of such, as have larger capacities, and a better faculty of understanding than others, who naturally are but of a narrow reach, and of a shallow capacity: more also is required of such, as live under plain, powerful, and lively ordinances, and under a more powerful and spiritual dispensation of the grace of God▪ than of others, that want such advantages. So likewise, more is required of old Christians, than of new beginners: Old men, of much and long experience, should know more, than such as are but babes in Christ, and of yesterday.  
9 Let their desires run out after that knowledge, not which puffeth up; for there is a knowledge which puffeth up. 1 Cor. 8. 1. but which humbleth, and driveth the soul further from itself, and nearer to Christ.  
10. They would carefully distinguish betwixt the gift of knowledge, and the grace of knowledge, That ordinarily puffeth up; This humbleth: That bringeth not the soul to jesus; This doth: That is but a form Rom. 2: 20. and doth not retain God Rom. 1: 28. This is a real thing, laying hold on God, and holdeth him fast, having the fear of the Lord for its principle, for this fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom job. 28: 28. Psal. 111: 10. Prov. 1: 7. and 9: 10. That lieth most in the head, and venteth most in discourses, words, yea and sometime evanisheth into vain notions; But this goeth down to the heart, and lodgeth there, and appeareth in the man's walk & conversation: as these two would be distinguished, so the one should not be measured by the other.  
11 When they do not profit indeed, let them beware of quarrelling with Christ, or of blameing Him, in any manner of way: but let them lay the blame of their shortcoming on themselves, for not making more use of Him, by faith and single dependence upon Him. It is true, none will be so bold, as in words to quarrel with or blame Him; yet the heart is deceitful, and tacitly may raise & foment such thoughts of Him, and his dispensations, as can pass under no other notion, than a quarrelling with Him. Now these would be guairded against.  
12. Beware of urgeing for or expecting of immediate revelations, or extraordinary manifestations: for we should not tempt the Lord, nor set limits to Him, neither should we prescribe means and ways to Him, we must be satisfied with the ordinary means, which He hath appointed, and wait at wisdom's doors, with our ears nailed to his posts.  
13. Whatever point of truth they learn, or whatever measure of knowledge they get▪ they would do well to give that back again to Christ, to keep for them, against a time of need; and wait on Him for grace to improve it for his glory.  
14. Let them beware of minding things too high. Psal. 131: 1. It is better to fear and stand in awe, and to seek to lay the foundations well, to get the saving knowledge of things necessary to salvation. This will yield most peace and satisfaction.    

CHAP. XIV. How to make use of Christ, as Truth, for comfort, when truth is oppressed and borne down.  
THere is another difficulty, wherein believing souls will stand in need of Christ, as the Truth, to help them; and that is, when his work is overturned, his cause borne down, truth condemned, and enemies, in their opposition to his work, prospering in all their wicked attempts. This is a very trying dispensation, as we see it was to the holy penman of Psalm 73. for it made him to stagger, so that his feet were almost gone, and his steps had well nigh slipped: yea he was almost repenting of his being a godly person, saying vers. 13. ver●…ly I have clansed my heart in vain, & washed my hands in innocence. It was something like this, which made jeremy say Cap, 8: 18. when I would comfort myself against sorrow, my heart is faint in me. The harvest was past, and the summer was ended, and yet they were not saved. verse. 20. and they looked for peace, but no good came, and for a time of health, but behold trouble verse. 15. and this was fainting and vexatious. And what made Baruch, Ieremiah's faith full companion in tribulation, say, woe is me now; for the Lord hath added grief to my sorrow, I fainted in my sighing, and I find no rest▪ jer. 45: 3. but this▪ that all things were turning upside down. God was breaking down that, which he had bui●…; and plucking up that; which he had planted▪ Tribulation and suffering for a good cause, is even fainting to some; as the Apostle hinteth Ephes. 3: 13. when he says, wherefore I desire that ye faint not, at my tribulation for you. And that which evinceth the danger of this dispensation, is the fainting and backsliding of many, in such a time of trial▪ as sad experience too often cleareth.  
Now the believers stay in this case, must be the rock of ages, Jesus, the Truth. It is He alone, who can keep straight and honest, in such a reeling time. So that a sight of Christ, as the Truth▪ in reference to the carrying on of Truth in the earth, and throughing his cause and work, will be the only support of a soul, shaken by such a piece of trial.  
But the question is, How should Believers make use of Christ, in such a time, to the end they may be keeped from fainting and succumbing in such a storm? To which I answer. That the faith and consideration of those particulars would help to establishment.  
1. That Christ, in all this great work of redemption, and in every piece of it, is the Father's servant. So is He frequently called, his servant Esai. 42: 1. & 49: 3, 5, 6. & 52: 13. & 53: 11. Zech. 3: 8. & therefore this work is a work entrusted to Him, & He standeth engaged as a servant, to be faithful to his trust. Moreover add to this, that He hath a commission to perfect that work; and we need not doubt, but He, who is the Truth, will be true to his trust. Him hath God the Father sealed john. 6: 27. & He oft tells us himself, that He is sent of the Father john. 4: 34. & 5: 23, 24, 30, 36, 37. & 6: 38: 39 40, 44, 57 & 8: 16, 18. & 12: 44, 45, 49. & 7: & 9: 4. & 10: 36. & 11: 42.  
2. That while He was upon the earth, He finished that work, that was committed to Him to finish here, having purchased all that was to be bought by his blood, paying all the price that justice did ask john. 17: 4. & 19: 30. By which price he hath purchased a people to himself Revel. 5: 9 Luk. 1: 68 So that His work, cause, and interest is a purchased work, bought with his blood.  
3. That his resurrection and glorification is an undoubted proof of this, that justice is satisfied, and that the price is fully paid; and also that his exaltation at the Father's right hand is a sure evidence & ground of hope, that He shall at last triumph over all his enemies; and that his work of truth shall prosper. The Father said to Him Psal. 110: 1. Sat thou on my right hand, until I make thine enemies, thy foot stool. Being now highly exalted, he hath got a name above every name, that in his name every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth, and that every tongue should confess, that jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father Phil. 2. 9, 10, 11.  
4. That the Father standeth engaged to make good to Him, all that was promised, and to give Him all that He purchased Esa. 53: 10, 11, 12. Christ, having now fulfilled his undertaking, by making his soul an offering for sin, and so satisfying justice, which is openly declared by his resurrection, admission to glory, as the Head of his elect, is to expect the accomplishment of what was conditioned unto Him. His work therefore on the earth must prosper: and the Father hath undertaken to see it prosper. Sure the faith of this would much support a poor soul, staggering at the thoughts of the prosperity of the wicked, and of their evil cause.  
5. That Christ himself is now throughly furnished and enabled, for the carrying on of his work, over the belly of all adversaries, for all power in heaven and earth is given to Him Matth. 28: 18. and every knee must bow to Him. Phil. 2: 10. all judgement is committed unto Him joh. ●…: 22, 27. Angels, powers and authority are made subject unto Him 1 Pet. 3: 22. Yea all things are under Him Ephes. 1: 22. How then can his work miscarry? or who can hinder, that truth should not flourish in the earth?  
6. That Christ is actually at work, employing this power for the carrying forward of his design, for the glory of the Father and for his own glory, and for the good of his poor people. The Father worketh by Him, and He by the Spirit, which is his great vicegerent, sent from the Father, and from Him, and his work is to glorify the Son, and shall receive of his, and show it unto us john. 16: 14.  
7, That Christ, upon many accounts, standeth engaged to perfect this work, which He hath begun and is about. His honour is engaged to go thorough, seeing now He is fully furnished for it, and hath all the creation at his command. He must then perfect his work, as to the application, as well as He did perfect it, as to the purchase: His love to his Fathers & his own glory, & to his own people's good and salvation may assure us, that He will not leave the work unperfected; and his power and furniture may give us full security, that no stoup, which his work meeteth with, shall be able to hinder it.  
8. That hence it is clear and manifest, that his wheel is in the midst of the wheels of men, and that therefore He is ordering all their motions and reel to the best. His wheel keepeth an even pace and moveth equally & equably, in the midst of men's contrary motions.  
9 And that therefore, all the eccentrick and irregular motions of devils and wicked men, being in His hand, and ordered by Him, cannot hinder but further His end; So that even enemies, while opposeing and seeking to destroy the cause and interest of Christ, that his name and truth should no more be mentioned, are promoveing his work. His wheel is the great wheel that ordereth all the lesser and subordinate wheels, whatever contrary motions they may have the one to the other, and all or many of them may seem to have to this great wheel. So that, do they what they will, the work of our Lord goeth on. Their opposition is setting his work forward, though they intent the contrary. However their faces look, they row to the port, He would be at. This is an undoubted truth, and confirmed in all ages, and yet is not firmly believed: and a truth it is, which, if believed, would do much to settle our staggering souls in a stormy day.  
10, That at last, He shall come to be glorified in his saints 2 Thes. 1: 10▪ when He shall be revealed from heaven with all his mighty angels vers. 7. Then shall it be seen, whose shall counsel stand His or men's; and whose work shall prosper, His or Satan's.  

Cautions.  
Yet let me add a few words, for caution and direction here.  
1. The consideration of those things mentioned should not make us slacken our diligence in prayer, and other duties: and when they are a right considered, they will rather prove a spur and a goad in our side, to set us forward, than a bridle to hold us aback.  
2. We would not think, that Christ's work and interest is going backward always, when it seemeth so to us. Even when He is casting down. what He hath built up; and plucking up, what He hath planted, his work is prospering, for all that is in order to the laying of a better foundation, and to the carrying on of a more glorious work; when He shall lay all the stones with fair colours, & the foundations with saphires, and make the windows of crystal etc. Esai. 5 4: 11, 12.  
3. Though his work be always going on, and his truth prospering; yet we would not think that it will always prosper alike, in our apprehensions; many times we judge by rules of our own making, and not by the rule of truth; and hence it is that we mistake oftentimes. We walk little by faith, and too much by sense; and hence we judge too much by sense, and so pass a wrong judgement, to his dishonour, and the sadning of our own hearts.  
4. Nor would we think, that His Truth and interest is ruined and gone, because it is sore oppressed, in this or that particular place of the world; as if his work were not of an universal extent, and in all the churches. If his truth thrive and prosper in some other place of the world, shall we not say, that his kingdom is coming? Or shall we limit all his work and interest to one small part of the world?  
5. We would not think the worse of his work, because it is carried on with so many stops, and doth meet with so many Impediments in its way: We are not acquanted with the depths of his infinite wisdom and counsel: and so we see not what noble ends He hath before Him, in suffering those impediments to lie in the way of his chariot. We think He should ride so triumphantly all alongs, that none should once dar to cast the least block in his way: but we judge carnally, as unacquanted with the many noble and glorious designs, which He hath, in ordering matters. As Himself was for a stone of stumbling and a rock of offence; so will he have the way of the carrying on of his work prove, in his holy and spotless justice, a stumbling stone to many, that shall stumble thereat, and fall, and never rise any more.  
6. We would beware to think, that Christ-hath forgotten his work, because He seemeth to take no notice of our prayers, which we are putting up, now and then for his work. He may be doing that, which we are desiring, in the general, and yet not let us know, that He is answering our prayers: & that for wise and holy ends, to keep us humble & diligent. He may seem to misregaird our suits, and yet be carrying on his work, and granting us our desires, upon the matter.  
7. Hence we ●…ould beware of desponding, and growing heartless and faint, when we see few owneing truth, Or standing upon Christ's side; for He needeth not man's help, to carry on his work, though He sometimes thinketh good to condescend so far, as to honour some to be instrumental in setting of it forward, who yet have nothing but as He giveth; let us not then think, that his work cannot prosper, because great ones and mean ones oppose it, and such as should stand for it and own it, are few and fainting, without strength courage or Zeal.    

CHAP. XV. How to make use of Christ for steadfastness, in a time, when truth is oppressed and borne down.  
WHen enemies are prevailing, and the way of truth is evil spoken of, many faint and many turn aside, and do not plead for truth, not stand up for the interest of Christ, in their hour and power of darkness; many are overcome with base fear, and either side with the workers of iniquity, or are not valiant for the truth, But being faint-hearted turn back. Now the thoughts of this may put some, who desire to stand fast, and to own Him and his cause, in a day of trial, to inquire how they shall make use of Christ, who is the Truth, so as to be enabled to stand in the day of temptation, and to keep fast by Truth, when it is loaded with reproaches, and buried under an h●…pe of obloquy. For satisfaction to this question, I shall shortly point out those directions, which, if followed, may prove helpful to keep the soul from fainting, misbelieving, doubting, quarrelling at the Lord's dispensations, and from yielding to the temptatitions, in such a day.  
1. The believer would live in the conviction of his hazard, through the slight of Satan, the strength of the temptation, the wickedness and treachery of the heart, the evil example of others, and the want of sanctified courage, Zeal and resolution; and this will keep the soul humble, and far from boasting of its own strength, which was Peter's fault.  
2. They would live in the faith and persuasion of this. That it is Christ alone, who is the Truth, who can help them to stand for truth, in a day of temptation; and that all their former purposes, vows, resolutions, solemn professions, and the like, will prove but weak cables to hold them fast, in a day of storm: and that only the rock of ages must save them; and their being a ley ward of Him, and partaking of his warm and saife protection, will do their business. That all their stock of grace, and knowledge, and that confirmed with resolutions and sincere purposes, will help but little, in that day: and that new influences of grace and truth, from the fountain, that is full of grace and truth, will only prove establishing to the soul, and confirm it in the truth, in that day.  
3. Therefore, they would eye Christ in his Offices; particularly as the great Prophet, who can teach, as never man taught; so teach, as to make the soul receive the doctrine, and to hold it fast, to receive it in love, and lay it up in the heart, as a rich and enriching treasure.  
4. They would eye him, in his relations unto his people, as their Head, Husband, Brother, Leader, Commander, Captain, etc. for those give ground of approaching unto Him, with confidence, in the day of darkness and mists, for light and direction, and for strength and courage▪ in the day of temptation: and give ground of hope of help, in that day of trial and difficulty.  
5. They would eye and act faith upon the promises of assistance and through▪ bearing, in the day of calamity; such as those▪ Esa. 43: 2. when thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee; when thou walkest through the fire, thou shall no●… be burnt; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee▪ And Esai. 41: 13. for I the Lord thy God will hold thy right hand, saying unto thee, fear not, I will help thee: and particularly▪ they would eye the promises o●… light, in the da●… of darkness. See Esai. 58: 8, 10. & 60: 20. 2 Sam. ●…2: 29.  
6. They would look on Christ as an exalted conqueror, now risen and glorified: as a victorious captain, that hath fought and overcome; that they, as his followers, may be made partakers of his victory and conquest, and so reap the fruit of his resurrection and ascension, in their establishment in the truth, when it is borne down, and questioned, yea and condemned by men. He abode steadfast and unmoveable in the midst of all the storms, that blew in his face: and as He came to bear witness to the truth; so did He faithfully and zealously avow truth, even to the death; and in death got the victory of the Arch liar and deceiver. Now the believer would eye this, for the strengthening of his faith and hope of victory also, through Him: and therefore would wait patiently for his help; and not make haste: for they who believe make not haste Esa. 28: 16. knowing that He is true and faithful and will not disappoint his followers, that trust in Him. And moreover, it would be of advantage to them, in this case, to eye that gracious and comfortable word john. 14: 19— because I live, you shall live also: and so by faith conclude, that seeing Christ now liveth, as a conqueror over darkness, untruth, reproaches, calumnies, and opposition of liars, yea of the father of lies; they, through Him, shall also live, and ride out that storm: and this will give much courage to the soul, to endure temptation, and to wait in patience for an outgate.  
7. They would study much, and suck at the grand promise of his coming again, and of finally dispelling all clouds: and of fully clearing up his glorious truths, that are now covered over with obloquy, and buried under reproaches: and this will encourage the soul to stand to truth, in the midst of all opposition, believing that, at length, truth, how much soever opposed now, shall be victorious.  
8. They should be single in their dependence on Him, for strength and throwbearing, in that day of trial; not leaning to their own understanding; but acknowledging Him in all their ways Prov. 3: 6. and when they see no hope of outgate in the world, nor appearance of the clearing up of the day, they would comfort themselves, and encourage themselves in the Lord, as David did, in a great straight 1 Sam, 30: 6.  
9 Upon the forementioned grounds, they would cast all the care of their throughbearing on Him, who careth for them 1 Pet. 5: 7. rolling all their difficulties on Him, consulting only with Him, & his Word, and not with flesh and blood; and so they would commit their ways to Him, who disposeth of all things, as He seeth good; forbearing to limit the holy one of Israel, or to quarrel with Him for any thing he doth; and patiently wait for his out-gate, and delivery.  
10. It were good, in this time of trial, to be remembering the worth of truth, and entertaining high thoughts of the smallest piece of truth, that is questioned, for his sake, who is the Truth: that a sight of the glorious worth thereof, may make them account the less of all they can lose, in the defence and maintenance thereof.  
11. So were it good at this time, when truths come to be questioned, to be lying near to the Truth, for light, and to be keeping fast, what He by his Spirit cleareth up to be truth, though the light should not be so full, as to dispel all objections. This were to depend upon Him for light, with singleness of heart; and in godly simplicity and sincerity to follow his direction and torch, though it should not shine so bright, as they would wish.  

Cautions.  
A few words of caution will be useful here also: as  
1. The believer, though taking this course, would not think to be altogether free of fear of stepping aside, in less or in more: God may think good, to let much of this abide, to the end he may be keeped watchful, tender and diligent; for fear maketh the soul circumspect and watchful; and this is a good preservative from defection.  
2. Nor would the believer think, that hereby he shall be keeped altogether free of fainting. The heart now and then, through fear and misbeleef, may fall into a fit of fainting, and think all is gone: and yet He may carry poor souls thorough, and make his strength perfect in their weakness 2 Cor. 12: 9 That when they are supported and carried through the temptation, they may sing praise to Him; and not ascribe any thing to themselves: remembering how often they were f●…inting, and almost giving over the cause, as desperate and hopeless.  
3. They would not think it strange, if in the time of their wreastling with difficultyes, the Lord hide his face from them, and give them not that 〈◊〉▪ 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Him in prayer that sometimes they have met with for the Lord may see it fit, to put them to this point of trial, among the rest, to see if the love of his glory and truth will keep them standing▪ when they want the encouragements, that might be expected in that way: and if pure conscience to the command and authority of God will keep from siding with an evil way, when the soul is destitute of all sensible encouragement, both from within and from without.  
4. In all this business, believers would carry singly, with an eye to God's glory; and would not be acted with self-ends, or drawn by carnal and selfy motives. They would not desire stability and through bearing, to be seen of men, or to gain applause and the praise of Men; lest God be provoked to leave them to themselves, and they at length come off with discredit, as Peter did. Therefore they would strive against these carnal motions of the heart; and labour for spirituality, singleness of heart, and truth in the inward parts, which the Lord desireth. Psal. 51: 6.    

CHAP. XVI. How to make use of Christ as the Truth, when error prevaileth, and the spirit of error carrieth many away.  
THere is a time▪ when the Spirit of error 〈◊〉 going ab●…oad▪ and truth is questioned, an many are led away with delusions▪ for Satan can change himself into an angel of light, and make many great and fair like pretensions to holiness, and under that pretext ushere-in untruths, and gain the consent of many unto them; so that, in such a time of temptation, many are stolen off their feet, and made to depart from the right ways of God, and to embrace error and delusions, in stead of truth. Now the question is, how a poor believer shall make use of Christ, who is the Truth, for keeping him steadfast in the truth, in such a day of trial, and from embracing the way of error, how plausible soever it may appear: for satisfaction to this, we shall propose those few things.  
1. In such a time, when a Spirit of error is let loose and rageth, and carrieth several away, it were good for all, who would be keeped straight & honest, to be walking in fear. It is not good to despise such a s●…ye and subtle enemy, especially in the hour and power of darkness. Then all are called to be on their guaird, and to stand upon their watch tower, and to be jealous of their corrupt hearts, that are ready enough, of their own accord, to drink-in error, and to receive the temptation, at any time, and much more then.  
2. They would not think, that their knowledge, and ability to dispute for truth, will keep them steadfast, if there be not more: for if the temptation grow, they may come to reason and dispute themselves out of all their former knowledge and skill. The father of lies is a cunning sophister, and knoweth how to shake their grounds, and cast all loose.  
3. They would renew their covenant grips of Christ, and make sure that main business. viz. their peace and union with God in Christ, and their accepting of Christ for their Head and Husband. They would labour to have the foundation sure, and to be united unto the chief corner stone; that so, blow the storm as it will, they may ride saifely; and that hereby they may have access to Christ with boldness, in their difficulty; and may with confidence seek light from Him, in the hour of darkness.  
4. To the end they may be keeped more watchful, and circumspect, they would remember, that it is a dishonourable thing to Christ, for them to step aside, in the least matter of truth: the denying of the least point of truth, is a consequential denying of him, who is the Truth: and to lose a foot in the matters of truth, is very dangerous▪ for who can tell when they, who once slip a foot, shall recover it again? And who can tell how many, and how dreadful errors, they may drink▪ in, who have once opened the door to a small error? Therefore they would beware of tampering in this matter, and to admit any error, upon the account that it is a small and inconsiderable one: there may be an unseen concatenation betwixt one error and another, and betwixt a small one and a greater one, so as if the little one be admitted and received, the greater shall follow▪ and it may be feared that if they once dally with error, and make a gape in their consciences, that God give them up to judicial blindness, that, ere all be done, they shall embrace that opinion, which sometime they seemed to hate as death.  
5. They would eye the promises suteing that case: viz. the promises of Gods Guideing the blindly a way, which 〈◊〉 know not: of making darkness light before them and crooked t●…ings streig●…s Es●…. 42: 16. and of guideing contin●…ally Esa. 8▪ 〈◊〉. see also Esa. 49▪ 10. and 57: 18. and they would act faith on these and the like promises▪ as now made sure through Jesus.  
6. Particularly, they would fix their eye upon that principal promise of the Spirit of truth, to guide into all truth john 16: 13.  
7. With singleness of heart, they would depend on Christ, and wait for light from Him, and beware of prejudice at the truth: with singleness of heart, they would lie open to his instructions, and to the influences of his light and direction, and receive in the beams of his divine light: and thus go about duties viz. Prayer, Conference, Preaching, Reading &c. with an eye fix●…d on him, and with a soul open to Him, & free of all sinful pre-engagement, and love to error.  
8. With singl●…nesse of heart, they would give up their souls to Christ, as the Truth, that He would write the truth in their souls, and frame their souls unto the truth, and unto that truth, which is most questioned, and by which they are most in hazard to be drawn away; and urge and 〈◊〉 Him by prayer and supplication, to do the duty of an Head, an Husband guide and Commander etc. unto them; and that He would be a 〈◊〉 unto them, in that day of darkness, and not suffer them to dishonour Him, or prove scandalous to others; by departing from the truth, and embracing of error. A serious single-hearted dealing with Him, upon the grounds of the covenant promises, and his relations and engagements, might prove steadable in this case, if accompanied with a lying open to the influences of truth▪ and to the light of information, which He is pleased to send by the Spirit of truth.  

Cautions and Directions.  
For further clearing of this matter, we shall hint at some cautions, and further directions useful here: such as  
1. They would beware of thinking that God should come to them with light and instruction, in an extraordinary manner; and reveal the truth of the question controverted somewhat immediately: for this were a manifest tempting and limit●…ing of the holy one of Israel. We must be satisfied with the means of instruction, which he hath provided, and run to the Law and to the Testimony. We have the Scriptures, which are able to make the man of God perfect and throughly furnished unto all good works 2. Tim. 3: 16, 17. and to make wi●…e unto Salvation vers. 15. There must we seek light; and there must we wait for the breathing of his Spirit with life, and coming with light to clear up truth to us: for they are the Scriptures of truth. Dan. 10: 21. and the law of the Lord, which is perfect, converting the soul, and the commandment of the Lord▪ that is pure enlightening the eyes etc. Ps●…l. ●…9: 7▪ 8. We have the Ministry, which God hath also appointed for this end, to make known to us his mind: there must we wait for him and his light. Thus must we wait at the posts of wisdom's doors: and wait for the king of light, in his own way, wherein He hath appointed us to wait for Him. And if He think good to come another way, more immediate, Let Him always be welcome: but let not us limit Him, nor prescribe ways to Him; but follow his directions.  
2. When any thing is borne-in upon their Spirit, as a truth to be received. or as an error to be rejected, more immediately, they would beware of admitting of every such thing, without trial and examination: for we are expressly forbidden to believe every Spirit, and commanded to try them, whether they are of God or not 1 john. 4: 1. The Lord will not take it ill, that even his own immediate motions and revelations be tried and examined by the word; because the word is given us for this end, to be our teste and standard of truth. The way of immediate revelation is not the ordinary way now of God's manifesting his mind to his people. He hath now chosen another way, and given us a more sure word of prophecy, than was even a voice from heaven, as Peter sayeth 2 Pet. 1: 18, 19 It is commended in the Bereans Act. 17: 11. who upon this account were more noble, than those of Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, & searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so. Even Paul's words, though he was an authorized, & infallible Apostle of Christ's, are here put to the touch stone of the word. Many false Prophets may go out, and deceive many, and speak great swelling words of vanity 1 john. 4: 1. 2 Pet. 2: 18. and the devil can transchange himself into an angel of light 2 Cor. 11: 14. And though an Angel out of heaven should preach any other thing, than what is in the written word, we ought not to receive his doctrine, but to reject it, and to account him accursed Gal. 1: 8. So that the written word must be much studied by us; and by it must we try all motions, all doctrines, all inspirations, all revelations, and all manifestations.  
3. Much more would they beware of thinking, that the dictates of their conscience obligeth them, so as that always they must of necessity follow the same. Conscience, being God's deputy in the soul, is to be followed no further, than it speaketh for God, and according to truth. An erring conscience, though it bind so far, as that he who doth contrary to the dictates thereof sinneth against God, in that, knowing no other than that the dictates of conscience are right and consonant to the mind of God▪ yet dar counteract the same, and thus formally rebel against God's authority; yet it doth not oblige us to believe and to do, what it asserteth to be truth, and duty. It will not then be enough for them to say, my conscience, and the light within me speaketh so, and instructeth me so: for that light may be darkness, and error and a delusion; and so no rule for them to walk by. To the law and to the testimony: and, if their conscience, mind, or light within them, speak not according to this word, it is because there is no lig●…t in them Esai. 8: 20. I grant, as I said, they can not without sin, counter act the dictates even of an e●…ing 〈◊〉; because they know not better, but that these dictates are according to truth: and thus an erring conscience is a most dangerous thing, and bringeth people under a very sad dilemma, that whether they follow it or not, they sin: and there is no other remedy here, but to lay by the e●…ing conscience, and get a conscience rightly informed by the word: putting it in Christ's hand, to be better form and informed; that so it may do its office better. This than would be especially guairded against; for if once they lay down this for a principle, that whatever their conscience and mind or in ward light (as some call it) dictat, must be followed, there is no delusion, how false, how abominable so ever it be, but they may be at length in hazard to be drawn away with: and so the rule, that they will walk be, be nothing in effect but the Spirit of lies and of delusion; and the motions and dictates of him, who is the Father of lies, that is, the Devil.  
4. Such as pretend so much to walk by conscience, would take h●…ed, that they take not that for the dictate of conscience, which really is but the dictat of their own humours, inclinations, preoccupyed minds, and biased wills. When conscience speaketh, it groundeth on the authority of God, whether truly or falsely, and proposeth such a thing, to be done, or to be refrained from, merely because God commandeth that, and forbiddeth this, though sometimes it mistaketh: but, though the d●…ctats of men's humours, inclinations, preoccupyed judgements and wills, may pretend God's authority, for what they say, yet really some carnal respect▪ selfish end and the like, lieth at the bottom, and is the chief spring of that motion: and also the dictates of humour, and biased wills are usually more violent and fierce, than the dictates of conscience; for wanting the authority of God to back their assertions and prescriptions, they must make up that with an addition of a preternatural force and strength. Hence such as are purely led by conscience, are pliable, humble, and ready to hear and receive information; whereas others are headstrong, and pertinacious, unwilling to receive instruction, or to hear any thing contrary to their minds, lest their conscience▪ receiving more light, speak with a higher voice, against their inclinations, and former ways; and so create more trouble to them; whileas now they enjoy more quiet within, so long as the cry of their selfwill & biased judgement is so loud, that they can not well hear the still and low voice of conscience.  
5. They would labour for much self denial▪ and sincerity; and to be free from the snares and power of selfish ends, as credit, a name▪ and applause, or what of that kind, that may be like the fear of man, that bringeth a snare: Prov. 29: 2. 5. for that will be like a gift, that blindeth the eyes of the wise Exod. 23: 8. love to carry on a party, or a design, to be seen and accounted some body, to maintain their credit and reputation, lest they be accounted changelings, and the like, will prove very dangerous in this case: for these may forcibly carry the soul away, to embrace one error after another, and one error to strengthen and confirm another, that it is hard to know▪ where or when they shall stand: and these by-respects may so forcibly drive the soul forward, that he shall neither hear the voice of conscience within, nor any instruction from without.  
6. They would study the word of truth, without prejudice and any sinful pre-engagement, lest they be made thereby to wiredraw and wrest the word, to their own destruction; as some, of whom Peter speaketh 2 Pet. 3: 16. It is a dangerous thing, to study the word with a prejudicated opinion; and to bow or wiredraw the word, and make it speak what we would have it speak, for the confirmation of out opinions and sentiments: for that is but to mock God and his law; and to say, Let his law speak what it will, I will maintain this opinion; and so make the word speak, as we would have it, or else lay it by. This is to walk by some other rule, than the word▪ and to make the word serve our lusts, and confirm our errors, than which a greater indignity can not be done to the Spirit of truth, speaking in the word.  
7. In reading and studying of the word, there would be much single dependence on the Spirit for light: waiting for clearness from Him, whom Christ hath promised to lead us into all truth. An earnest wreastling with Him for his assistance, enlightening the mind with divine light, to understand the truth, and inclineing the soul to a ready imbraceing and receiving of the truth, declared in the word.  
8. Though one place of scripture be enough to confirm any point of truth, and ground sufficient for us to believe what is there said, there being nothing in scripture, but what is truth: yet in such a time of abounding errors, and when many are going abroad, speaking perverse things, to lead the simple away, it were spiritual wisdom to be compareing scripture with scripture; and not to be lightly embracing whatever may seem probable, and fairly deduceable from some one passage or other of scripture; but to be comparing that with other passages, and see what concord there is: for this is certain, what ever point contradicteth other clear and manifest testimonies of scripture cannot be true; how ever a cunning sophister may make it seem very probably to flow out of such or such a passage of scripture. The testimony of the Spirit is uniform, and free from all contradictions: and therefore we must see, if such an assertion, that some would draw from such a passage, agree with other plain passage: and if not, be sure, that that is not the meaning of the place. When the devil did wrest and abuse that passage of truth Psal. 91: 11. He shall give his angels charge concearning thee. etc. and from thence would infer, that Christ might cast himself down. Mat. 4; 6. Christ show that this inference was bad, because it did not agree with other divine testimonies, particularly not with that Deut. 6: 16. Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God: And thereby he teacheth us to take this course, in times of temptation? and so compare spiritual things with spiritual, as Paul speaketh, 1. Cor. 2: 13. Especially they would beware of expounding clear Scriptures by such as are more dark and mysterious: See 2. Pet. 3: 16. it is always saifer, to explain darker passages by such as are more clear.  
9 Let them guaird against an humour of newfangledness, nauseating old and solid truths, and seeking after something new, having ears itching after new doctrines, yea or new modes and dresses of old truths: for this is provocking to God, and proveth dangerous; for such turn away their ears from the truth, and are turned into fables, as Paul telleth us. 2. Tim. 4: 3. 4. for the time will come, sayeth he, when they will not endure sound doctrine, but after their own lusts, shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears: and they shall turn away their ears from the truth▪ and shall be turned unto fables. This favoureth of a spirit of levity and inconstancy; which is dangerous.  
10. They would labour to have no prejudice at the truth, but receive it in love, and the love of it▪ lest for that cause God give them up to strong delusions to believe lies, and to be led away with the deceiveablnesse of unrighteousness: as we see 2. Thes. 2: 10, 11, 12. and with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish, because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved▪ and for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie; that they all might be damned, who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness.  
11. So would they beware of stifling the truth, of making it a prisoner▪ & detaineing it in unrighteousness, like those spoken of Rom. 1: 18. for which cause God gave▪ them up to uncleanness and to vile affections, and they became vain in their imaginations and their foolish heart was darkened; yea professing themselves to be wise, they became fools. verse. 21, 22, 24▪ 26. They should let truth have free liberty, and power in the soul; and should yield up themselves to be ruled and guided by it: and not thorture with it, lay chains upon it, or fetter it, and keep it as a prisoner, that can do nothing.  
2. For this cause, they would hold fast the truth, which they have learned, and have been taught by the Spirit out of the word. When Paul would gua●…rd▪ and fortify Timothy against seducers, that crept into houses, leading captive silly women etc. among other directions, he giveth him this 2. Tim. 3:▪ 14, 15▪ But continue thou in the things, which thou hast learned, and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned; and that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise to Salvation etc. So he would have the Colossians walking in Christ, rooted and build up in Him, & established in the faith, as they had been taught Col. 2. 6, 7.  
13. Especially they would be holding the groundwork fast, saith in Christ: It were good, in such a time of erring from the way of truth, to be gripping Christ faster, and cleaving to▪ Him by faith, and living by faith in Him. This is to hold the foundation fast; and then let the tempest of error blow as it will, they will ride at a sure anchor, and be s●…ife, because fixed upon the rock of ages: and further, living near Christ, in such a dangerous day, would be a noble preservative from the infections of error. The soul that is dwelling in Christ, and gripping to Him daily by faith, and acting love on Him, dwelleth in light, and will discover error, sooner than another, because living under the rays of the sun of righteousness; which discovereth error.  
14. They would labour to learn the truth, as it is in jesus; and the truths, which they have heard of Him, and have been taught by Him, as the truth is in Him, will abide, when other truths, that have been learned but of men, and heard of men, and as it was in the preaching of men, and in books, shall soon vanish, in a day of trial. This is to learn Christ, as the Apostle speaketh Ephes. 4: 20, 21. But ye have not so learned Christ, if so be that ye have heard Him, and have been taught by Him, as the truth is in jesus, When we learn the truth, as it is in jesus, it bringeth us always in to Him, and hath a tendency to fix our hearts on Him, and is a piece of the bond that bindeth us to him and his way: we receive it then as a piece of his doctrine, which we must own, and stand unto; O if we learned all our divinity thus! we would be more constant and steadfast in it, than we are.  
15. When controversies arise, and they know not which side to choice; both seemeth to them to be alike well founded on the word, they would exerce their spiritual sagacity, and set their gift of discerning a work, to see which of the two tendeth most to promove piety and godliness, and the kingdom of Christ: and so see which of the two is the truth, which is after godliness, as the Apostle speaketh Tit. 1: 1. they must look which of the two is the doctrine, which is according to Godliness 1 Tim. 6: vers. 3. That is thetruth which is Christ's, and which should be owned and embraced, viz, which floweth from a Spirit of godliness, & tendeth to promove godliness, and ●…eth with the true principles of godliness, even gospel godliness, wrought according to the tenor of the covenant of grace; that is, by the strength of the Spirit of Jesus, dwelling and working in us; and not according to the tenor of the covenant of works, that is, wrought by our own strength etc.  
16. Yet withal, they would take heed, that they mistake not here: for they may look upon some ways and doctrines, as having a greater tendency to promove godliness, than others; which indeed have not, but only seem so. They would therefore consider well, what is the way of godliness laid down in the noble device of the gospel, which is the way that only glorifyeth God, Father, Son and Holy Ghost; and see what suiteth most with that, according to the word; and not what seemeth most suitable to godliness in their apprehension. The word is the best judge and teste of true godliness; and in the word, we have the only saifest mean of true godliness held forth▪ therefore we should see, what doctrine tendeth most to promove godliness, according to the way held forth in the word, and choose that.  
17. They would guaird against pride and selfe-conceite, as thinking they are wise enough, and understanding enough, in those matters: and so need not take a lesson of any. This may be of great prejudice, for itis the meek, that God guideth in judgement. And to the meek will He teach his way Psal. 25: 9 Therefore it were good for his people in such a day, to be meek and humble, willing & ready to learn of any person, how mean so ever, that can teach the ways of God. The Lord may bless a word spoken by a private person, when he will not bless the word spoken by a Minister: for his blessings are free. And itis not good to despise any mean: Apollos, though instructed in the way of the Lord, mighty in the Scriptures, fervent in Spirit, and teaching diligently the things of the Lord Act. 18: 24, 25. Yet was content to learn of Aquila & of his wife Priscilla, when they expounded unto Him the way of God more perfectly vers. 26.  
18. In such a time, itis not unsaife to look to such, as have been eminent in the way of God, and lie near to Him: for itis probable, they may know much of the mind of God, in those questioned matters: Hence, we find the Apostle putting Timothy & others to this duty, in a time when false teachers were going abroad, saying 2 Tim. 3: 10. But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life: & 1 Cor. 4: 16. wherefore I beseech you be ye followers of me: & 1 Cor. 11: 1. & Again Phil. 3: 17. Brethren be followers together of me. All which say, that though we should call no man Rabbi, as hanging our faith absolutely on Him; yet in such a time of prevailing error, and of false teachers going abroad, some respect should be had to such, as have found grac●… of the Lord to be faithful in times of trial, an●… have maintained truth, and stood for it, in times persecution, and have with singleness of heart followed the Lord; It not being ordinare with God, to leave such, as in sincerity seek Him, and desire to follow his way, in truth and uprightness; and to give the revelation of his mind, and the manifestation of his Spirit, to others, who have not gone thorough such trials.  
19 They would also at such a time be much in the sincere practice of uncontroverted duties, and in putting uncontroverted and unquestionable and unquestioned truths into practice: and this may prove a notable mean to keep them right: for then are they in God's way; and so the devil hath not that advantage of them, that he hath of others, who ●…re out of the way of duty. David understood more than the Ancients, because he keeped God's precepts Psal. 119: 100  
20. It were good and suitable at such a time, to be much in the fear of God; remembering what an one He is, and how hazardous itis to sin against Him, by drinking-in the least point of error. The promise is made to such. Psal. 25: 12. What man is he that feareth the Lord, him shall He teach in the way that he shall choose.  
21. Finally, at such a time, they would be much in communion with Jesus, lying near Him; much in prayer to Him, studying his Relations, Offices, Furniture, Readiness to help with light and counsel; and they would draw near to Him with humility, boldness, faith, confidence, love, tenderness and sincerity; and then they shall not find that He shall fail them or disappoint them.  
Enough of this. I proceed therefore to another case, which is.    

CHAP. XVII. How to make use of Christ, as the Truth, that we may get our case and condition cleared up to us.  
THe believer is oft complaining of darkness, concearning his case and condition, so as he cannot tell what to say of himself, or what judgement to pass on himself, and he knoweth not how to win to a distinct and clear discovery of his state and condition. Now, it is Truth alone, and the Truth, that can satisfy them as to this. The question than is. How they shall make use of, and apply themselves to this Truth, to the end, they may get the truth of their condition discovered to them. But first let us see, what this case may be. Consider then  
1. That grace may be in the soul, and yet not be seen nor observed: this is manifest by daily experience.  
2. Not only so, but a gracious soul, that is reconciled with God in Christ, and hath the Spirit of grace dwelling in it, may suppose itself a stranger yet unto this reconciliation, and you of the grace of God, and so to be still in the state of nature.  
3. Yea, a soul may not only suppose and conclude itself in nature, while it is in a state of grace, but ●…urder, may be filled with terror and apprehensions of God's wrath and indignation; and that in such a measure, as that thereby it may be as a distracted person, as we see it was with Heman, Psal. 88: 15. who said, while I suffer thy terrors, I am distracted. The wrath of God lay hard upon Him, and he said, that he was afflicted with all God's waves vers. 7. hence he cried out vers. 16, 17. Thy fierce wrath goeth over me, thy terrors have cut me off, they came round about me daily, (or all the day) like water, they compassed me about together, And yet for all this, the first word of his complaint was faith vers. 1. Many such complaints hear we our of Iob's mouth, to whom God notwithstanding was that gracious, that he never, came to question his state before God, or to conclude his hypocrisic, or his being still in the state of nature. But it is not so with every one, that is so exercised.  
4. Yea further, with those inward strokes upon the soul, they may have sin and guilt charged home upon their consciences: and this will make their life yet more bitter, & put a sharper edge upon the rods. Thus was job made to possess the sins of his youth, job, 13: 26. and made to say, My transgression is sealed up in a bag, and thou sowest up mine iniquity job. 14: 17.  
5. Moreover, they may be in such a condition a long time, and all the while have no light of comfort, as we see in job and Heman. They may even walk in darkness, and have no light of comfor●… Esai. 50: 10.  
6. Yea and also be without the hope of a delivery or outgate, Hence cryeth Heman Psal. 88: 4, 5. I am counted with them that go down into the pit, free among the deed, like the slain that lie in the grave, whom thou rememberest no more, and they are cut off from thine hand. Yea they may be driven to the very border of despair; and conclude that there is no hope; as the Church did, Ezek. 37: 11. Our bones are dried, and our hope is lost, and we are cut off for our pairts: and as job Chap. 7: 6. My days are swifter than a weaver's shuttle, and are spent without hope, and Chap. 19: 10. He hath destroyed me on every side, and I am gone: mine hope hath he removed like a tree.  
Now though sometimes, as we see in job, and in Heman too, a soul may be under such a sad and sharp dispensation, and yet not brought to question their state, or to conclude themselves children of wrath, lying still in black nature; yet it is not so with all, who are so exercised: but many, under such a dispensation, may, at least, be in the dark, as to their state before God: and if they do not positively assert their state to be bad; yet they do much question, if they be in the state of grace, and would be comforted under all their pressures and afflictions, if they could win to the least well grounded apprehension of their interest in Christ.  
In such a case as this is, there is ground for a poor soul to make use of Christ for outgate; and an outgate may be had in God's time, and as He seeth sit, by a right use-making of and going▪ out to Him, who is the Truth. So then the soul, that would have its state and condition cleared up, and a discovery of its being reconciled to God through Jesus, and in a state of grace, and would make use of Christ as the Truth, for this end, would  
1. Look out to Christ, as a feeling Highpriest, faithful and merciful, who, being like us in all things except sin, doth sympathise with, and succure such as are tempted Heb. 2: 17: 18. And as a Priest, that is touched with the feeling of our infirmities, Heb. 4: 15. Albeit Christ, in the deepest of his darkness, was never made to question his soneshipe, but avouched God to be his God, even when he was forsaken, Psal. 22: 1▪ Mat. 27: 46. Mark. 15: 34. Yet He knew what it was to be tempted▪ to question his sonshipe, when the devil said unto Him Mat. 4. if thou be the Son of God, and He knows, what such a distress, as He himself was into, wreastling with an angry God, hideing himself and forsaking, will work in a poor sinner, and being a merciful and sympathizeing Highpriest, he cannot but pity such as are under such a distemper; and as a gracious Head sympathise with them▪ Now the believer would look out to Him, as such an one, and upon this ground go to Him with confidence and boldness, and lay out their case before Him, that He may help and send relief.  
2. They would also eye Christ, as able to save out of that condition, and to command light to shine out of darkness: and so, as one able to save to the uttermost, all that come to God through Him Heb. 7▪ 25.  
3. And not only so, but eye Him also, as given, sent and commissioned of the Father, to be a light to such, as sit in darkness; even to the Gentiles, Esa. 42: 6. & 49: 6. Luk. 2: 32. Act. 13: 47. & 26: 23. john. 8: 12. and this will encourage the poor Souls to go out to him, with their darkness, when they see that He is sent, as a Light, and as the Truth, to clear up poor souls, that walk in darkness and have no light: when they see, that it is his place and office to help them; and consider that He is true to his trust, and true and faithful, in all that was committed to Him, it not only will embolden them to come forward to Him, but it will strengthen their hope, and encourage them to wait on.  
4. They would stay themselves on Him, as an alsufficient helper, renunceing all other; crying out, that they will have no light, but His light; and that they will seek no where else for light, but wait at His door, till He, who is the Sun of righteousness, arise in their soul, and come with hailing light in his wings.  
5. They would by faith roll and cast their darkened souls, their confused case, their over whelmed hearts, on Him, and leave them there: for He is the only physician: and the blind soul must be put in his hand, who can take away the film, and cause the scales fall off, and make light break in to the soul, and discover to it its condition.  
6. It would be useful and very steadable, in such a time of darkness, for the believer, to be frequent in acting direct acts of faith on Christ; that is, be frequent in going to Him, as an alsufficient Mediator, as the only refuge and shadow, for a po●…r weary scoarched soul Esai. 4. last & 32: 2. And a man shall be as an hideing place from the wind, and a covert from the tempest, as rivers of water in a dry place, as the shadow of a great rock in a ●…eary land: as one who is a strength to the needy in his distress, a refuge from the storm, a shadow from the heat, etc. Esa. 25: 4. When the soul is thus overwhelmed with clouds, and doubteth of its interest in Christ, it would then put it out of doubt, by fleeing to Him for refuge from the storm of God's indignation, and lay hold on Him, as He is offered in the gospel; and thus renew its grips of Him▪ as the offered alsufficient Mediator: and frequent direct acts of faith will help at length to a reflex act. The soul that is daily running to Christ, according to the covenant, with all its necessities; and laying hold on Him, as only able to help, will at length come to see, that it hath believed on Him, and is made welcome by Him, and accepted through Him. So that rëterated acts of faith on an offered Cautioner, and Salvation, will dispel at length those clouds of darkness, that trouble the soul.  
7. Such souls would beware of making their bands stronger, and their darkness greater, by their ●…olly and unwise carriage: for this cause, they would beware,  
1. To cry- out in despondency of Spirit, as if there were no hope, and to conclude peremptorily, that they are cut off; and it is in vain to wait any longer: for this course will but darken them more, and multiply the clouds over their head.  
2. To run away from Christ through unbeleef and despair; for that will make their case yet worse.  
3. To walk untenderly and not circumspectly; for the more sins appear, the less light will be had. O but souls would be tender in all their conversation at that time, and guaird against the least sin, or appearance of evil.  
4. To fret and repine against God, because of that dispensation: for that will but entangle the soul more, and wreathe the yock straiter about its neck; and put itself further out of case to be relieved, and to receive light.  
8. Lastly, such would do well not to limit the holy one of Israel, but to wait with patience, till his time come, to speakin light to the soul; knowing that such as wait upon Him shall never be ashamed, Esai. 49: 23. because He waiteth to be gracious; and therefore blessed are they all that wait upon him Esai. 30: 18.  

Quest. But what if for all this, I get no outgate, but my distress and darkness rather grow upon my hand?  
Ans. That such a thing may be, I grant, the Lord thinking it fit. (1.) To exercise their faith, dependence, patience, hope, and desire more. (2.) And to discover more unto them their own weakness, faintings, faithlesness. (3.) To show his absolute power and sovereignty. (4.) To make his grace and mercy more conspicuous & remarkable at length: and. (5.) To train them up in away of dependence on him in the dark; and of leaning to him, when walking in darkness; yea and in a way of believing, when they think they have no faith at all, and for other holy ends. Yet the soul would not despond; for there are several things, that may serve to support and bear up the heart, even in that case; as  
1. This is not their case alone: Others have been in the like before; and many have had the like complaints in all ages, as is known to such as have been acquanted with exercised souls.  
2. It may yield peace and comfort, to know that they are about duty, when looking to Him, and depending upon Him, and waiting for his light.  
3. The promises made to such, as wait for Him, may support the soul, and yield comfort.  
4. The distinct knowledge and uptaking of their condition, though it be comfortable and refreshing; yet itis not absolutely necessary. A soul may be a saved soul, though those clouds should continue to its dying day; and though, as long as they lived, they should never get a clear discovery of their gracious state, but spend their days in mourning, complaineing, and crying out of darkness, etc.  
5. Such a soul should think that its much, that he is keeped out of hell so long: and sure, the thoughts of what he is, and of what he doserveth, may make him sober, and not to think much, though he reach not so high, as to see his name written in the book of life.  
6. They would know, that full assurance of hope and of faith, is but rare; and even such as have it, do nor ordinarily keep it long: So that it should not much trouble them, if after all their pains they cannot win at it.  
7. If they win to any real ground of hope, how small so ever, they should think much of that; for many dear to Christ live long, and never know what so much is.  
8. It is no small matter, that they are not sinking in the gulf of inconsideration, and plagued with an indifferency in these matters; but are made to value Christ and an interest in Him, at such a rate.  
9 Their going to Christ with all their wants, laying all on Him; and their making that their daily exercise, may keep up their hearts from fainting, yea and fill their souls with joy: for that is really the exercise of faith. And the great and gracious promises are made to such as believe, and not to such only, as know they do believe. I grant such as know not that they do believe, cannot draw comfort from these promises; yet it is as true, that one may, by reflecting on the actings of his own soul, see and know that really he is going out to Christ, forsaking himself, casting his burden on Him, waiting and depending upon Him: when yet he will not say, that he doth believe: and when he seeth this working of soul toward Christ, he is obliged to believe, that he believeth, and thereupon rejoice in the hope of the great promises. And however, the very sight and knowledge of this acting and motion of soul, may give them some comfort, though they shall not take it for faith; because, it is the way of duty, and it is the thing, which the gospel calleth for; and because they cannot show an instance of any one soul, that did so, and perished. But the truth is, the right understanding of the nature of faith, would clear many doubts, and prevent many questions.  
I come to speak a little to the last case, which I shall handle, which is    

CHAP. XVIII. How we shall make use of Christ, as the Truth, that we may win to right and suitable thoughts of God.  
This is a case, that much troubleth the people of God. They cannot get right and suitable thoughts of God, which they earnestly desire to have; nor know not how to win at them. And certain it is, He only who is the Truth, and came out of the bosom of the Father, can help here. Therefore, for our use making of Him for this end; It would be remembered.  
1. That the mind of man, through the fall, is nothing but a mass of ignorance and blindness; that the understanding is darkened Ephes. 4: 17, 18. And naturally we are in darkness 1 john. 2: 9, 11. Yea under the power of darkness. Col. 1: 13. And, which is more, our minds naturally are filled with prejudice against God and enmity, through wickedness, naturally resideing there, and which the Prince of the powers of the air, the Spirit that worketh in the children of disobediance, increaseth and stirreth up.  
2. That this evil is not totally taken away, even in the godly, but helped only in pairt: for they see and know but in pairt. 1 Cor. 13: vers. 13.  
3. That hence it cometh to pass, that through the working of corruption, the soul of a believer can sometime win to no right thought of God at all, or at best to some very narrow, and unsuitable conceptions of Him and his ways: yea sometimes, all the thoughts that they can get of God, are vain and idle, if not misshapen and blasphemous.  
4. That as we are, we cannot see God: for no man hath seen Him Mat. 11: 27. john. 4: 46. for He is an invisible God, 1 Tim. 1. 17. Heb. 11: 27. He dwelleth in light, which no man can approach unto. Him no man hath seen, nor can see 1 Tim. 6: 16. 1 john. 4: 12.  
5. That all that knowledge of God, which i●… saveing, is to be found in Christ, who is the brightness of his glory, & the express image of his person. Heb. 1: 2. and the image of the invisible God Col. ●…. 15. and is for this end come out from the bosom of the Father, that He might acquaint us with Him, and with all his secrets john. 1: 18. Mat. 11: 27. so far as is needful for us to know. He is God incarnate, that in Him we may see the invisible. Thus God is manifest in the flesh 1 Tim. 3: 16. and the word was made flesh, and dwelled among us john. 1: vers. 14.  
6. That therefore, if we would see and know God we must go to Christ, who is the temple, in which God dwelleth and manifesteth his glory; and in and through Him, must we see and conceive of God. The light that we get of the knowledge of the glory of God, must be in the face of Jesus Christ 2 Cor. 4: 6, that is, in the manifestations, that Christ hath made of himself, in his Natures, Offices, Ordinances, Works, Dispensations of grace, mediate and immediate etc. And thus doth God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, cause this light of the knowledge of his glory shine into our hearts, viz. in the face of jesus Christ, that is, in the dispensations of grace in the gospel, which is the glorious gospel of Christ 2 Cor. 4: 4. and, as it were, the face of jesus Christ: for, as by the face a man is best known, and distinguished from others; so Christ is visibly, discernably, and manifestly seen and known, in and by the gospel dispensations; there are all the lineaments and draughts of the glory of God, which we would know, lively and clearly to be seen.  
So then, if we would make use of Christ for this end, that we may win to a right sight of God, and suitable conceptions of his glory, we would consider those things.  
1. We would live under the sense and through conviction of the greatness and incomprehensibleness of God, as being every way past finding out: and also under the conviction of our own darkness, and incapacity to conceive aright of Him, even as to what He hath revealed of himself.  
2. We would know, that what the works of Creation and Providence declare and preach forth of God, though it be sufficient to make Heathens and others, that do not improve the same to a right acknowledging of him, inexcusable; as Paul teacheth us, Rom. 1: 20. yet all that is short of giving to us that saving knowledge of Him, which must be had, and which is life eternal▪ john. 17: 2.  
3. We would know, that what of God is to be foundout by the works of creation and providence, is more distinctly seen in Christ, and in the gospel. Here is a greater and more glorious discovery of God, and of his glorious attributes, his justice, Power, Wisdom, Goodness, Holiness, Truth▪ etc. than can be found by the deepest diveing naturalist, and most wise moral observer of providence, that is not taught out of the Gospel.  
4. Yea, there is something of God to be seen in Christ, in the gospel, which can be observed ●…o none of his works of creation, or common providence: there is the grace of God that bringeth salvation, that is made to appear only by the gospel 'tis 2: ●…1. and there is a peculiar kindness and love of God toward man, which is only discovered by Christ in the gospel, Tit. 3: 4. There is that manifold wisdom of God, that mystery, which was hid from the beginning of the world in God; that Principalities and powers in heavenly places, the greatest and wisest of naturalists, must learn by the church, wherein that is preached and proclaimed, by the dispensations of the gospel Ephes. 3: 9, 10. His mercy pardoning poor sinners, justice being satisfied, can not be cleared by nature. Nature cannot unfold that mystery of justice and mercy, concurring to the salvation of a sinner, only the gospel can clear that riddle.  
5. We would remember, that all the beams of that glory, which are necessary and useful, for us to know, are, to speak so, contracted in Christ and there vailed, to the end that we may more steadyly look upon them. We may go to our Brother, who is flesh of our flesh, and there, through the veil of his flesh, see and behold what otherways was invisible: as we can look to the sun better shineing in a pale of water, than by looking up immediately; so can we behold God and his glory better in Christ, where there is a thin vail (to speak so) drawn over that otherwise blindeing yea killing, glory, than by looking to God without Christ: for alas we could not endure one glance of an immediate ray of divine glory, it would kill us out right.  
6. We must then go to Christ, and there see God: for He who seeth Him, seeth the Father also. john 14: 9 Particularly, we must go to the face of jesus Christ, that is, that, whereby He hath made himself known, the noble contriveance of the glorious gospel; wherein all things are so carried on, as that God is glorified in his Son, in the salvation of poor sinners. The whole work of salvation is laid on Christ, and the Father is glorified in Him, who is his servant and his chosen, whom He upholdeth and furnisheth for the work Esai. 42: 1, 2. He is called the Covenant itself: He is the undertaker in the covenant of Redemption, and in the covenant of Grace: all is founded on Him: all the good things of it are given out by Him: all the grace, by which we close with it, and accept of Him, according to it, is given by Him. Now, in this gospel contrivance are all the lines of the glorious face of Christ to be seen: and in that face must we see and discern the glory of God; all the rays of which are centred in Christ, and there will we get a noble prospect of that glorious object. So that all such, as would make use of Christ for this end, that they might come to have right and suitable thoughts and apprehensions of God, must be well acquanted with the whole draught and frame of the gospel; and so acquanted therewith, as to see Christ the substance, ground, and all of it, and to see Him in every part of it.  
7. Whatever we know or learn of God, by his works of Creation or Providence, in the world or about ourselves, we would bring it in here, that it may receive a new tiucture, and a deeper impression. That is done, when we find and learn something of Christ there; and are brought nearer Christ thereby; and made thereby to discover something more of the glory of God in the face of Christ; or are made to understand better something of the revelation, that is made of God in the gospel; or moved thereby to improve it better.  
8. In all this matter, we must not go without our guide, lest we wander in this wilderness, and it prove a labyrinth to us. We must take Christ with us all alongs: He must teach us to understand his own face: and to read the glorious characters of that excellent glory, which is to be seen in his face: He must be our interpreter, and teach us, how to read this book, and how to understand what is written therein; He must give the discerning eye, and the understanding heart: even the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, to take up the mysteries of God.  
9 And for this cause, we would by faith lay hold upon the promises of the Spirit, whereby we may be made spiritual, and have our understandings enlightened more and more, to understand the mysterious characters of divine Majesty and Glory.  
10. In all this exercise, we would walk with fear, & carry with us impressions of the dreadful Majesty and Glory of God, that we may tremble and fear, and stand in awe, and read what we read of this glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ, this glorious bible, with reverence, and godly fear.  
And thus may we be helped to win to right and suitable thoughts of God; yet with all we would, for  

Cautions,  
Consider a few things further, as  
1. That we must not think, to search out the Almighty unto perfection, job. 11: 7.  
2. Nor must we think, to get any one point of God known & understood perfectly: corruption will mix-in itself, do our best; and our short comeings will not easily be reckoned up.  
3. We must beware of carnal●… curiosity, and of unlawful diveing-in in this depth, lest we drown.  
4. We would not dream of a state here, wherein we will not need Christ for this end. Yea, I suppose, in glory, He will be of use to us, as to the seeing of God: for even there, as he is to day, so ●…hall he for ever abide, God and man in two distinct natures and one person: and that cannot be for ●…ought: and as God will be still God, invisible & ●…nsearchable; so we, though glorified, will remain ●…ite creatures; and therefore will stand in need of Christ, that in his glorious face we may see the invisible. He must be our lumen gloriae.  
5. We should think it no small matter, to have the impression of this sight upon our hearts, that we cannot see Him▪ and that we, in this state of sin, cannot get right and suitable apprehensions of Him. I say, the impression of this on our spirits, that is, such a sight of an impossibility to get Him seen aright, as will keep the heart in awe, & cause us walk before Him in fear and reverence, and to humble ourselves in the dust, & to tremble when ever we make mention of his name, or begin to meditate on Him, knowing how great an one He is, and how dangerous it is to think amiss of Him, & how difficult to get a right thought of him.    

CHAP. XIX. And the Life. How Christ is the Life.  
THis, as the former, being spoken indefinitely, may be universally taken, as relating both to such as are yet in the State of nature, and to such as are in the state of grace; and so may be considered in reference to both, & ground three points of truth, both in reference to the one, and in reference to the other. To wit, 1. That our case is such as we stand in need of his help, as being the Life. 2. That no other way but by Him can we get that supply of life▪ which we stand in need of; for He only is the Life, excluding all other. 3. That this help▪ is to be had in Him fully and compleetly: for not only is He able to quicken, but He is called the Life. So that the help, which he giveth, is full, excellent, and compleet.  
Looking upon the words, in reference to such as are in Nature, they point out those three truths to us.  
First. That all of us by nature are dead, standing in need of quickening and of life: for this is presupposed, while He is said to be the Life: and that both legally and reall●…: legally being under the sentence of death, for Adam's transgression Rom. 5: 15. and for that original corruption of heart we have: and Really, the sentence of the law being in part executed▪ & that both as to the body, & as to the soul. As to the body. It is now subject to death, and all the sorerunners thereof, such as weakness, pains, sickness, fears, torment, trouble, weariness: yea and in hazard of hell fire, and the torments of the second death for ever. As to the soul, it also is many ways dead, both first in away that is purely penal, and next in a way that is also sinful; and both ways, as to what is present, and as to what is future: for as to that which is penal and present. It is (1) separated from God and his favour Gen. 3: 8, 10, 24. (2) is under his curse and wrath, whence it cometh to pass, that by nature we are children of wrath Ephes. 2: 2▪ 5. Servants of Satan 2 Tim. 2: 26. The consequence of which is sad and heavy; for hence it is that we cannot please God, do what we will: till we be brought out of that state, our ordinary & civil actions, even ploughing the ground, is sin. Prov. 21: 4. Yea out Religious actions, whether natural or instituted, are abomination; even our sacrifices Prov. 15: 8. & 31: 27. & prayers Prov. 2●…: 9 Ps. 10: 7. Yea and all our thoughts & purpose●… Prov. 15: 26▪ and likewise all our ways Prov. 15: 9 As to what is penal and future, it is obnoxious to that everlasting excommunication from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power 2 Thes. 1: 8, 9 and to the torments of hell for ever Mark. 9: 44, 46, 48 Luk. 16▪ As to what is not only penal, but also sinful, the soul here is under the stroke of darkness in the understanding, perverseness and rebelliousness in the will, irregularity & disorder in the affections, whereby the soul is unfit for any thing that is good, & prone to every thing that is evil. Rom. 3: 10▪ 20. Ephes. 2: 1, 2, 3. Rom. 5: 6. & 8: 7, 8, whence proceedeth all our actual transgressions. jam▪ 1: 14, 15. And moreover sometimes the soul is given up to a reprobat mind Rom. 1: 28. to strong delusions 2 Thes. 2: 2. to hardness of heart Rom. 2: 5. horror of conscience Esa. 33: 14. to vile affections Rom. 1: 26 and the like spiritual plagues; which, though the Lord inflict on some only, yet all are obnoxious to the same by nature, & can expect no less, if the Lord should enter with them into judgement. And finally, as to what is future of this kind, they are, being fuel for Tophet, obnoxious to that malignant, sinful, blasphemous and desperate rebellion against God, in hell for ever more.  
O how lamentable, upon this consideration, must the condition of such be, as are yet in the state of nature. Oh if it were but seen and felt! But alas there is this addition to all, that people know no●… this, they consider it not, they believe it not, they feel it not, they see it not: and hence it cometh to pass, that  
1. They cannot bewail and lament their condition, nor be humbled therefore.  
2. They cannot, nor will not, seek after a remedy: for the whole will not trouble themselves to seek after a physician.  
And sure upon this account, their case calleth for pity and compassion from all, that know, what a dreadful thing it is to be in such a condition: and should stir up all to pray for them, and to do all they can to help them out of that state of sin and misery, which is dreadful to think upon.  
Should not the thoughts and consideration of this put us all to try and search, if we be yet translated from death to life, and delivered out of that terrible and dreadful state, and made partakers of the first resurrection. It not being my purpose, to handle this point at large, I shall not here insist in giving marks, whereby this may be known, and which are obvious in Paul's Epistles, & to be found handled at large in several practical pieces, chiefly in Mr. Guthries' Great interest. I shall only desire every one to consider and examine,  
1. Whether or not, the voice of Christ, which quickeneth the dead▪ hath been heard and welcomed in their soul? This is effectual calling.  
2. Whether or not, there be a through change wrought in their soul, a change in the whole Man, so as all things are become new 2 Cor. 5: vers. 17?  
3. Whether or not, there be a Principle of life within▪? And they be led by the Spirit?  
4. Whether or not, there be a living to the glory of the Lord Redeemer?  
And when by impartial trial, a discovery is made of the badness of our condition, should we not be alarmed to look about us, and to labour by all means for an outgate, considering, (1.) How do●…lful and lamentable this condition is. (2.) How sad and dreadful the consequents of it are. (3.) How happy a thing itis to be delivered from this miserable and sinful condition: and. (4.) How there is a possibility of outgate.  
Finally, It may break a heart of stone to think, how people, that are in such a condition, are so unwilling to come out of it: for,  
1. How unwilling are they, once to suspect their condition, or to suppose that it may be bad, and that they may be yet unconverted?  
2. How unwilling are they, to sit down seriously to try and 〈◊〉 the matter, and to lay their case to the touchstone of the word?  
3. Yea, how unwilling are they, to hear any thing that may tend to awaken them, or to discover unto them the badness of their condition?  
4. How ready to stifle challenges of conscience, or any common motion of the Spirit, which tendeth to alarm their soul?  
5. How great enemies are they to such ordinances, as serve to awaken sleeping consciences?  
6. And how do they hate such ministers, as preach such doctrine, as may serve to rouz th●…m up, and set them a work about their own salvation?  
Secondly, We learn hence. That without Christ there is no imaginable way of delivery out of this natural state of death. No other name is given under heaven whereby we can be saved. Act. 4: 12. and angels can make no help here, nor can one of us deliver another; the redemption of the soul is more precious than so Psal. 49: 7, 8. Not is there any thing we can do for ourselves, that will avail here; all our prayers, tears, whipeings, fastings, vo●…es, alms deeds, purposes, promises, resolutions, abstenance from some evils, outward amendments, good morality and civility, outward religiousness, yea and, if it were possible, our keeping of the whole law, will not help us out of this pit. And we may weary ourselves in such exercises in vain; for they will prove but bodily exercises that profit little. And when in this way, we have spent all our time, parts, spirits and labour, we shall at length see, and say, that we have spent our money for that which is not bread.  
This should put all of us to try, what itis, which we lean to for life; and what it is, the consideration whereof giveth us peace and quietness, when the thoughts of death, judgement, hell and the wrath of God come upon us, and trouble us: for if it be any thing beside Christ that our soul leaneth to, and that we are comforted by, and found all our hopes upon, we will meet with a lamentable (oh! for ever lamentable!) disappointment. Be sure then, that our hearts renunce all other ways and means of outgate, out of this death, beside Jesus, the Resurrection and the Life, else it will not be well with us.  
Thirdly, We see here. That delivery out of this natural state of death, is only had by Christ: for He alone is the Life, and the life that is in Him is suitable and excellent. Hence he is called the bread of life john 6: 35, 48. The resurrection and the life john 11: 25. The water of life Revel. 21: 6. & 22: 17. The tree of life Revel. 22: 2, 14. The Prince of life Act. 3: 15. our life Col. 3: 4. The word of life, and life itself 1 john. 1: 1, 2.  
And as He is a suitable and excellent life; so is He an alsufficient and perfect life, able every way to help us, and to deliver us from all the parts of our death. For  
1. He delivereth from the sentence of the law Rom. 5: 17, 18. undergoing the curse of the law, and becomeing a curse for us 2 Cor. 5. last.  
2. He taketh away the curse and sting of all temporal plagues, yea and of death itself, causeing all work together for good to such as love Him Rom. 8: 28. He hath killed Him, that had the power of death, that is, the devil Heb. 2: 14. And through Him, the sting of death, which is sin, is taken away 1 Cor. 15: 56, 57  
3. He reconcileth to God, taking away that distance and enmity 2 Cor. 5: 20. and so He is our peace and peacemaker, purchaseing access to us to the Father Ephes. 2: 14, 16. & 3: 12.  
4. He also delivereth from the power of sin and corruption Rom. 7: 24.  
5. And from all those spiritual strokes; such as blindness, hardness of heart, &c: for He is our light, and hath procured a new heart for us, even ●…n heart of flesh.  
6. So delivereth He from hell fire, having satisfied justice, and having brought life and immortality to light. And He giveth life eternal, as ●…e see Rev. 2. & 3.  
Oh! it is sad, that Christ is so little made use 〈◊〉, and that so many will forsake the fountain of ●…wing waters, and dig to themselves brocken ciste●…s, that can hold no water; and slight, despise ●…d undervalue the gospel of Christ, which bringeth life and immortality to light.  
Oh! if the consideration of this, could move ●…ch, as never found any change in themselves, to ●…to and make use of Jesus Christ, for life: and would for this end,  
1. Cry to Him, that He would make them ●…ensible of their deadness, and waken them out of their deep sleep.  
2. Cry to Him, to set them a work to renunce ●…ll other help beside his, as being utterly unable ●…o quicken, and put life in them.  
3. Cry to Him, that He would draw and determine their souls, to a closeing with Him by faith ●…lone, to a hearing of his voice, to an obeying ●…f his call, to a following of his direction, to a giving up of themselves to Him, leaning to Him, ●…d waiting for all from Him alone: in a word, to ●…ake Him for their life in all points, and to lean ●…o Him for life, and to expect it from Him, through ●…th in the promises of the gospel.  
Next. This being spoken to the disciples, whom ●…e suppose to have been believers, it will give us ●…round to speak of it, in reference to believers, and 〈◊〉 yield three points of truth, which we shall briefly ●…ch, and then come to speak of use-making of ●…hrist, as the Life, in some particular cases.  
First. It is here clearly presupposed, that even believers have need of Christ to be life unto them; & so have their fits of deadness. If it were not so, why would Christ have said to believers, that He was life? And daily experience doth abundantly confirm it. For  
1. They are oft so weak and unable to resist temptation, or to go about any commanded duty, as if they were quite dead.  
2. They are oft so borne down with discouragement, because of the strength of opposition, which they meet with on all hands; and because of the manifold disappointments, which they meet with▪ that they have neither heart nor hand; and they faint and sit up, in the ways of the Lord; and cannot go thorough difficulties, but oftim●… lie by.  
3. Through daily fight, and seeing no victory, they become weary and faint hearted; so that they lie by as dead; Esai. 40: 29.  
4. They oft fall sick and decay, and have need of restauration and quickening.  
5. The want of the sense of God's favour, and 〈◊〉 the comforts of the holy ghost, maketh them 〈◊〉 dwine, and droop, and look out as dead.  
6. While under soul desertions, upon one account or other, they look upon themselves as f●… among the dead, that is▪ as dead men▪ of the society of the dead, with Heman Psal. 88  
7. Yea many times, they are as dead men ●…d captive in chains of unbeleef, and corrup●…ons, as we see David was, when his hea●… panted, and his strength failed him, and 〈◊〉 light of his eyes was gone from him Psal. 38: 10.  
8. Many times the frequent changes, and ups and downs they meet with, take all courage and heart from them▪ that they become like men tossed at sea, so as they have no more strength.  
And many such things befall them, which make them look as dead, and to stand in need of quickening, reviveing and strengthening cordials from Him, who is the Life. And thus the Lord thinketh good to dispense with his own people.  
1. That they may be keeped humble, and know themselves to be indigent creatures, needing influences of life daily.  
2. That they may have many errands to Him, who is the Life, and have much to do with Him, and depend upon Him continually.  
3. That He may show himself wonderful, in and about them, giving proof of His skill in quickening the dead, and in bringing such thorough unto everlasting life, who were daily, as it were, giving up the ghost, and at the point of death.  
4. That heaven may be heaven; that is, a place where the weary are at rest job. 3: 17. and the troubled rest 2 Thes. 1: 7. And where the inhabitants shall not say they are sick Esai. 33: vers. 24.  
5. That they may be taught more the life of faith and of dependence on Him, and trained up in that way.  
6. That He may be owned, acknowledged and submitted unto, as a Sovereign God, doing what He will▪ in heaven and in earth.  
For all this, there is no cause, that any should take up any prejudice at christianity: for, for all this, their life is sure, and the outgate is sure and saife. Nor would they think it strange, to see believers oft mourning and drooping, seeing their case will oft call for new supplies of life. Their fits are not known to every one; nor doth every one know what lieth sometime at their heart.  
Nor would they think it such an easy matter, to win to heaven, as they imagine, and so deceive themselves. The righteous are saved through many deaths.  
And as for believers, They would not think it strange, to meet with such fits of deadness; nor thence conclude, that all their former work was but delusion, and that they are still into the state of nature. But rather observe the wisdom, faithfulness and power of God, in bringing their brocken ship thorough so much brocken water; yea and ship wracks; and his goodness in ordering matters so, as they shall be keeped humble, watchful, diligent, and constant in dependence upon Him, who is and must be their life, first and last. And hence learn a necessity of living always near to Christ, and depending constantly upon Him by faith; for, he being their life, they cannot be without Him, but they must die and decay.  
Secondly, We hence learn. That under all these fits of deadness, to which his people are subject, nothing without Christ will help. Not  
1. All their pains in and about ordinary means, prayer, reading, hearing, meditation, conference etc. They will all cry out, that help is not in them: for He is the Life.  
2. Nor extraordinary duties. Such as fasting and prayer, and vows, these will never revive & quicken a drooping or fainting sickly soul: for they are not Christ; nor the Life.  
3. Nor will a stout courageous Spirit, and resolution of heart avail. If He, who is the Life▪ breath●… not, all that will melt away, and vanish.  
4. Nor will the stock of habitual grace, which remaineth in the soul, be sufficient to quicken and revive the sick soul: if the Life breathe not on these habits, and if new influences of life and strength flow not in upon the soul, and new rays come not down from this sun of righteousness, to warm the frozen soul, the habits will lie by as dead.  
5. Far less will their great gifts and enduements help them out of that dead condition: all their light and knowledge, without the influences of this Life, will prove weak and insufficient for this end and purpose.  
6. Nor will sound, pure, and lively like ordinances work out this effect: for till He look down, all those ordinances may prove dead and deadning to them.  
It were good if believers were living under the conviction of this daily, and, by their practice and carriage, declareing that they believe, that Christ only is the Life, and that they must live in Him, and be quickened and revived through Him alone.  
Thirdly, We see hence▪ That Christ is the Life▪ that is, one that sufficiently, yea and abundantly, can help the believer, while under those fits of deadness, which have been mentioned, and the like. There is in him a rich supply of all things, that tend to revive, encourage, strengthen, and enliven: soul, under spiritual deadness and fainting. Therefore is He called the Life; as having in Him all that, which is necessary for, and answerable to souls under spiritual sicknesses, distempers, desertions, fainting & swooning fi●…es, etc. for with Him is the fountain of life Psal. 36: 9 and He itis that upholdeth the soul in life Psal. 66: 9 and can command the blessing, even life for evermore Psal. 13 3: vers. 3.  
For further clearing of this, we would consider those things.  
1. That He is God, equal with the Father in power and glory, and thereby hath life in himself john 5: 26. and can quicken whom He will. vers. 21. By this He proveth there his own godhead & equality with the Father. So john. 1: 4. Itis said that in Him was life; and that life was the light of men, whereby also his Godhead is confirmed. This should be firmly believed, and rooted in our hearts, as being the ground of all our hope, comfort and life: for were it not so, that our Mediator were the true God, all our hopes were gone, our comforts could not be long lived, and our life were extinct.  
2. As mediator God-man, He is fully and thoroughly furnished to quicken and enliven his members and followers, first and last: and all alongs their life must be hid with Christ in God, for in Him dwelleth the fullness of the godhead bodily Col. 2: 9 as mediator he is called a tree of life Prov. 3: 18. quickening and enlivening all that feed upon Him; and the bread of life. john. 6: 35, 48. Yea because of power and authority to command life to the dead soul▪ He is called the Prince of life Act. 3: 15. and as a living quickening stone, he giveth life to all that are built upon Him 1 Pet. 2: 4. Yea as being fully fitted and furnished for this work, He calleth himself the resurrection and the life john. 11: 25. This should be riveted in our hearts, as a comfortable and encouraging truth.  
3. Of this stock of life, and quickening and reviveing grace, which He hath goat, and is furnished withal, as Mediator and Redeemer of his people, He is communicative: of his fullness do we receive, and grace for grace john. 1: 16. He goat it, that He might give it out; and that from Him as an head it might flow out unto his members, and therefore He is the bread that came down from heaven, and giveth life to the world john. 6: 35. Yea He giveth eternal life to all his sheep joh. 10: 28. and He is come for this end, that his sheep might have life john. 10: 10▪ Therefore hath he taken on such relations, as may give ground of confirmation of this, as of an head, of a stock or root, and the like. This consideration is strengthening and reviveing.  
4. He communicateth of this stock of life, and of reviveing strength, which He hath, most sweetly, and on most easy terms. So that  
(1.) Such as seek him shall find life by Him Psal. 69: 32.  
(2.) Yea such as know Him, shall not miss life. john. 17: 3. 1 john. 5: 20.  
(3.) If we will believe on Him and rest upon him, we have life, first and last john. 3: 15, 16▪ 36. & 6: 40, 47. 1 Tim. 1: 16.  
(4.) If we will come to Him john. 5: vers. 40. and cast our dead soul upon him▪ we shall live.  
(5.) If we will hear his voce Esai. 55: 3. and receive his instructions we shall live; for they are the instructions of life.  
(6.) Nay, if the soul be so dead, that it can neither walk, nor hear, if it can but look to Him, he will give life Esai. 45; 22.  
7. And if the soul be so weak, that it cannot look, nor lift up its eyes; yet if it be willing, He will come with life Revel. 22: 17.  
Oh! if this were believed.  
5. As he is communicative of that life, which he hath gotten as Head, and that upon easy terms; so He giveth out of that life liberally, largely, abundantly; yea more abundantly john. 10: 10. The water of life, which He giveth, is a well of water springing up to everlasting life john. 4: 14. Therefore he alloweth his friends to drink abundantly Cant. 5: 1.  
6. Yet it would be remembered, that, He is Lord and master thereof, and Prince of this life, and so may dispense it and give it out, in what measure He seeth fit, and He is wise to measure out best for his own glory, and to their advantage.  
7. All this life is sure in Him, none of his shall be disappointed thereof. His offices, which He hath taken on; and his commission, which he hath of the Father, abundantly clear this; and love to his will not suffer him to keep up any thing, that i●… for their advantage. He is faithful in his house as a Son: and will do all that was committed unto Him to do. The whole transaction of the covenant of Redemption and Surety-sh●…pe, and all the promise●… o●… the new Covenant of grace confirm this, to be a sure truth: so that they that have Him have life. 1 john. 5: 12. Prov. 8: 35.  
8. Yea all that is in Christ contributeth to this life and quickening; His Words and Doctrine, are the words of eternal life john. 6: 63, 68 Phil. 2: 16. His Works and Ways are the ways of life Act 2: 28▪ His Natures, Offices, Sufferings, Actings, and all He did as Mediator, concur to the quickening and enlivening of a poor dead soul.  
9 This fullness of life, which He hath, is fully suited to the believers condition, in all points, as we shall hear.  
10. This life is eminently and transcendently in Him, and exclusively of all others. Itis in Him, and in Him alone; and itis in Him, in a most excellent manner. So that He is the Life, in the abstract; not only a living head, and an enlivening head; but Life itself, the Life, the Resurrection and the Life.   

CHAP. XX. Some general uses.  
BEfore we come to speak of some particular cases of deadness, wherein believers are to make use of Christ, as the Life; we shall first propose some useful consequences and deductions from what hath been spoken of this life, and.  
First. The faith of those things, which have been mentioned, would be of great use and advantage to believers: and therefore they should study to have the faith of this truth fixed on their hearts, and a deep impression thereof on their spirits, to the end, that  
1. Be their case and condition what it will, they might be keeped from despair, and despondency of spi●…it, from giving over their case as hopeless; and from looking upon themselves as irremediably gone. The faith of Christ's being Life, and the Life, would keep up the soul in hope, and cause it say; how dead so ever my case be, yet Life can help me, and He, who is the resurrection and the Life, can recover me.  
2. Yea, be their case and condition what it will, they would have here some ground of encouragement, to go to Him with their dead soul, and to look to Him for help, seeing He is the Life, as mediator, to the end He might enliven and quicken his dead, fainting, swooning members, and to recover them from their deadness.  
3. They might be freed from many scruples and objections, that scar and discourage them. This one truth believed would clear up the way so, as that such things, as would have been impediments and objections before, shall vanish and be rolled out of the way now: such as are the objections taken from their own worthlesness, their long continuance in that dead condition, and the like.  
4. They might hereby likewise be freed from that dreadful plag●…e and evil of jealousy, whereby the soul is oft keeped aback from coming to Christ: for they fear, He will not make them welcome; they doubt of his love and tenderness, and question his pity and compassion; yea their jealousy maketh them to doubt of his faithfulness. So that the faith of this truth would cure this jealousy, and deliver the soul therefrom, and open a way for the soul to come forward with boldness and confidence.  
5. They might also be hereby helped to wait with patience, and to be still and quiet under the Lord's various dispensations: so as they would not frete nor repine against him, knowing that He would prove himself to be Life, even the Life, in his own good time: so that the soul would paitiently wait at his door, till He were pleased to look out, and with his look convey life in to their dead soul.  
6. They might be preserved hereby from looking out to, or expecting any help from, any other art: knowing that He alone is the Life, and so, that help can no where else be had. The faith of this truth would guaird from many sinistrous ways, which the soul, in a time of strait, is ready to run to, for relief: for hereby would it see, that neither instruments, nor means, nor outward administrations, nor any thing of that kind, can quicken their dead soul; and that He, and He alone, must breathe- in life into them, as at first, so now again.  
Secondly, May we not see and observe here great matter of admiration, at the goodness and rich bounty of God towards his people, who hath found out and condescended upon such a sure, saife and satisfying way, whereby he becometh all things to his ●…ple, which they stand in need of; and that notwithstanding  
1. That we are most unworthy of any such dispensation of grace at his hands.  
2. That we too oft are too desirous of other guests in our hearts, beside Him. O How much corruption, sin and death lodge we within our souls! and how more desirous are we oftimes of death, than of life!  
3, That we little improve the noble advantages for life, which we have granted unto us: yea many a time we abuse them; and this He did foresee, and yet notwithstanding would condescend thus unto us.  
4. That we do little express our thankfulness for such mercies.  
But not for our sakes hath He done this, but for his own names sake: for noble and holy ends hath He resolved upon this course; as  
1. That He might be all and in all Col. 3: 11. and they nothing. That He alone might fill all in all Ephes. 1. ult, and they be empty & nothing without Him.  
2. That He might wear the glory of all; for of Him, and through Him, and to Him, are all things Rom. 11. last, and that no man might share therein.  
3. That Man might be His everlasting debtor, and cast down, in testimony thereof, his crown at His feet, who sitteth on the throne, as those did Revel. 4: 10. and might c●…y out with these same elders vers. 11. Thou art worthy O Lord, to receive glory & honour and power etc. and with those Chap. 5: 12. worthy is the lamb that was stain, to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, & honour, and glory, and blessing.  
4. That man's mouth might be stopped forever, and all boasting excluded: for man is a proud creature, and ready to boast of that, which is nothing and vanity. Now God hath chosen this noble way of the covenant of grace, that man might boast no more. Where is boasting then? It is excluded. By what law? by the law of works? no, but by the law of faith, sayeth the Apostle, Rom. 3: vers. 24.  
5. That all might be sure to the poor chosen believer. The Lord will not have the stock of life, any longer to be in man's own hand: for even Adam, in the state of innocency, could not use it well, but made shipewrack thereof, and turned a bankrupt: much more would man now do so, in this state of sin, in which he lieth at present; therefore Hath God, out of love and tenderness to his chosen ones, put all their stock in the hand of Christ, who is better able to manage it, to God's glory and man's advantage, being faithful in all things, and a trusty servant, having the fullness of the Godhead dwelling in Him bodily. Therefore (sayeth the Apostle Rom. 4: 16.) It is of faith, that it might be by grace, to the end, the promises might be sure to all the seed.  
6. That believers might have strong consolation, notwithstanding of all the opposition of enemies without and within, when they see that now their life is hid with Christ in God Col. 3: 3. and that their life is in their Head: they will not fear so much devils and men without, nor their own dead and corrupt hearts within.  
Thirdly, How inexcusable must all such be, (1.) Who will not lay hold on this life, on Jesus who is the Life, sure life, yea everlasting life?  
(2.) Who seek life any other way, than by and through Him, who is the Life?  
(3.) Who oppose this way of life, and not only reject the offers of it, but prove enemies to it, and to all that carry it, or preach it?  
Fourthly, Here is strong encouragement to all, that would be at heaven, to enter into this gospel way, which is away os life. Such need not fear that their Salvation shall not be throughed, let Satan and all their adversaries do what they can, all that enter into this way shall live: for the way itself is life, and nothing but life. So that here all objections are obviated: life can answer all. If the believer fear, that he shall never win thorough difficultyes, he shall die by the way, or by fainting, succumbeing and swooning, dishonour the profession, and at length f●…ll- off and apostatise, or despair and give over all hope; Here is that, which may answer and obviate all: life can quicken, and who can perish in the way, which is the way of life, an enlivening way, yea the way, which is life itself; yea the Life, in a singular and eminent manner?  
Fiftly, Here is ground of reproof even of believers. who, though they have come to Christ, yet do not live in Him, as they ought; do not walk in Him, with that liveliness, activity, which is called for: but  
1. Lean too much to their own understanding▪ gifts, or graces; and think thereby to ride- out storms, and to wade thorough all difficulties, whileas, if He who is the Life, do not breath upon us, all that will fail us, in the day of trial: our understanding and pairts or gifts may dry up, and our graces may whither and decay, and go backward.  
2. Rest too much an duties; when they should in them go to Him, who is the Life; for only in Him is life to be had; and Him should they seek to in the ordinances▪ that they might have life from Him, in those outward duties: and this appeareth in their way of going about duties, without that dependence on Him, & single eyeing of Him, which is called for; as also by their freting and repining, when duties do not their business, as if life lay all in duties: and concludeing all will be right, because they get duties somewhat tolerably performed; and on the contrary desponding, when duties fall heavy on them, and they find themselves indisposed for duty: all which clearly evinceth, that they lay too too much weight on duties; whileas it would be otherways with them▪ if they were purely depending on Christ, and looking for all from Him.  
3. despond too soon, because they get not help●… and relief instantly; or because they are not preserved from every degree of fainting.  
4. Neglect to make use of Him, and to come to Him, with all their wants, failings and necessities, as they ought: or come not with that freedom and boldness, which the gospel grounds allow.  
Sixtly. This preacheth out the woeful misery of such, as are strangers to Christ: for being strangers to the Life, they have no life, they are dead, and death is engraven on all they do; even though  
1. They should be very diligent in external duties, yea and outstripe many true believers; as the pharisees had their fasts twice a week. Luk. 18.  
2. They should be eminently gifted, able to instruct others, and to speak of the mysteries of the gospel, to good purpose and to edification: for such gifts of knowledge and utterance may be, where the lively operations of the grace of Christ are not; and consequently, where Christ is not, 〈◊〉 the Life.  
3. They should seem eminent in all their outward carriage, and seem to carry most christinaly in all their walk, and appear most devout in the matter of worship.  
4. And they should have something more than ordinary; even taste of the heavenly gift, & be made partakers of extraordinary gifts of the holy ghost, yea and taste the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come. Heb. 6: 4, 5.  
Seventhly. This discovereth the noble advantage of such, as have accepted of Christ for their life. Their condition is happy, sure, desirable & thriveing; for Christ is theirs, and life is theirs; because Christ, who is the Life, is theirs  

Objection. 1. But some wicked person may say, we see not that happy and advantageous condition of such, as go for believers; for we observe them to be as little lively oftimes, as others, and as unfit for duties; yea and sometimes, as much subject to sin and corruption, as others.  
Answer. 1. However it be with them, either in thine eyes, or possibly in their own, sometimes; yet thou may hold thy peace: for in their worst condition, they would not exchange with thee, for a world. In their deadest-like condition, they are not void of all life, as thou art, notwithstanding all thy motions, and seeming activeness in duty▪ because all thy motion in and about duty is but like the moving of children's puppies, caused by external motives, such as a name, applause, peace from a natural conscience, or the like; and not from any inward principle of grace and life.  
2. Howbeit they sometimes seem to be dead; yet they are not always so; life doth really work sometimes in them: whereas there was never any true or kindly motion of life in thee.  
3. There may be more life in them, yea life in motion, when they seem to be overcome with some lusts or corruption, yea when really they are overcome; then beholders, that are strangers to the heart, can observe: for when temptation is violent, as having the advantage of the time & place, of the constitution of the body, and the like, it argueth no small degree of life, and of life in motion, to make some resistance and opposition thereunto, though at length he should be overcome thereby. And this opposition and resistance, flowing from a principle of grace, speaketh out life, though corruption, having the advantage, should at that time over- power the motion of life, and carry the man away.  
4. If it be not otherwise with believers than is objected, they may blame themselves: for not improveing Christ better for life.   

Obj. 2. But some, who are true believers, will object the same, and cry out of themselves as dead; and say, they find not that liveliness & activity in their souls, that will evidence Christ, the Life, dwelling and working in them.  
Ans. It may be they prejudge themselves of that lively frame, they might enjoy, and so wrong themselves.  
1. In not exere●…eing faith on Christ, nor drawing life from Him through faith. The life which they live should be by faith Gal. 2: 20. How then can such as do not eat become fat? by faith we feed on Christ.  
2. In not watching, but giving way to security, and thereby encourageing and strengthening the adversary, as we see in David: when they stand not on their watch tower, they invite Satan to set on; and he is vigilant enough, and knoweth how to take his advantage, and to improve his opportunity.  
3. In giving way to leazinesse and not stirring up themselves, as we see in the Bride Cant. 3: 1. & 5: 3. When they stir not up the grace of God, which is in them, how can they belively? If grace be laid by, it will contract rust. The best way to keep grace lively, is to keep it in exercise, how little so ever it be.  
4. By their rashness, walking without fear, as is to be observed in Peter, whe●… he slipped so foully. When through their want of circumspection, they precipitate themselves into danger, and cast themselves among their enemy's hands, is it any wonde●…, that it go not with them, as they would; and that they provock God to leave them to themselves, that they may know what they are, and learn afterward not to tempt the Lord, and to walk more circumspectly?  
5. By leaning too much to their attainements, and not looking out for new influences of grace and life. Hereby they provock God to let them know to their expenses, that for as great a length as they are come, they must live by faith, and be quickened by new influences from the Spirit of life.  
6. So they may wrong themselves through their ignorance of Christ, and of the way of making use of Him: and if they, through unacquantednesse with Christ and the right way of improveing the fullness that is in Him, miss the fruit and advantage, which otherwise they might have, they can only blame themselves.  
7. They may also prejudge themselves, by their self love, self esteem, self seeking, self pleasing etc. which piece and piece will draw them off Christ, and cause them forget the way of sucking life from Him, who is the fountain of life.  
8. When they give way to small sins, they open a door for greater; and they lose thereby their tenderness, and so provock the Lord to withdraw: and this is another way, whereby they prejudge themselves of that benefit of liveliness, which they might otherwise have.  
9 So also by worldly mindedness, which alienateth their mind from God: and.  
10. By their impatience and fret●…ing and repining against God, and his wi●…e dispensations, they also prejudge and wrong themselves: for while they are in that mood, they can not, with ●…e composedness of Spirit, go to Christ, and draw life from Him through faith.   

Obj. 3. But is there not even some of those, who are most tender, that compleane of their deadness and shortcoming?  
Ans. 1. It may be that they complain without cause; & that they have more cause of rejoicing. and of blessing the Lord, for what He hath done to them, than of complaineing.  
2ly. Their complaineing will not prove the want of life, but the contrare rather: for when they complain most, they must be most sensible, if their complaints be real, and not merely for afashion; and sense is a manifest evidence of life.  
3ly. It would be remembered, that the Lord can make their failings and shortcoming contribute to the furthering of their life; as we see it did in Peter.  
4ly. It would also be remembered, that Christ doth not distribute and give out of this life to all his members and followers, in a like measure; but to some more, and to others less, according as He seeth it meet and convenient, both for his own glory and their good. He hath more service for some, than for others: and some He will employ in greater and more difficult work, which will call for more life; and others He will employ in common work, which will not call for such an eminent degree of life.  
5ly. And upon the same account, He may think it good, to give to the same person a larger measure of grace at one time, than at another.  
6ly. And that for wise reasons and noble ends, as  
1. That all may see, how absolute He is in his dispensations: a Sovereign, that doth with his own what He will, and will not give an account of any of his ways or communications▪ to us.  
2. That we may learn submission, and quietly to stoop before Him, whatever measure He be pleased to dispense towards us.  
3. That we may learn, to depend upon Him, more closely all alongs; and in all our ways to acknowledge Him.  
4. That we may learn, to exercise patience, which must have its perfect work, in waiting upon Him, as a great king. This is his glory, and itis the testifying of our homage to Him.  
5. He will train us up so, as to be welcontented and satisfied, if He bring us home at length, though not with such a convey of the graces of his Spirit, as we would wish.  
6. That we may see and read our daily obligation to Christ our life, and the daily need we have of his keeping our life in, by fresh ga●…ls of his Spirit, and new heavenly influences.  
7. And that getting new proofs of his kindness ●…nd faithfulness, we may give Him new songs of praise daily and so express our thankfulness to Him, which will tend to set forth his glory.  
Eightly. This may point out unto believers, several duties, to which they are called: we shall name some few of many: as  
1. That they should rejoice, and be comforted, in the thoughts of this, that they have such a compleet Mediator, one that is throughly furnished, and made all things for them; not only the Way, and the Tru●…h; but the Life also.  
2. The thoughts of this should also stir up to wondering at the wisdom, graciousness and goodness of God; & to thankfulness for providing such an alsufficient way for them.  
3. This should also encourage them under all temptations, faintings, backsets and fits of deadness, that they fall into, that there is one, who is the Life: and that He, whom their soul hath chosen, is the Life, and so fully able to quicken and enliven them.  
4. This should teach them humility, and not to be proud of any thing they have▪ or do: for it is He, who is the Life, who keepeth them in life, and helpeth them to any duty; yea it is life, that worketh all in them.  
5. And likewise it should teach them to acknowledge Him, to whom they are obliged, for any thing they do, for any life they have, or any acts or fruits of life that appear in them; and to be thankful to Him therefore.  
6. And mainly, They should here read their obligation and duty, to improve this advantage, and to draw life out of this fountain, and so live by this life; act and do all in and through this life; and so be quickened by this life, in all their fits of deadness: and for this cause would keep those things in mind,  
(1.) That they should live in a constant conviction of their own weakness, deadness and inability to do any acts of life, of themselves; and far less to recover themselves out of any distemper and fit of deadness, which they fall into.  
(2.) That they should live in the faith of this. That there is life enough in Him, who is the Life, to do their business. They should be persuaded of His alsufficiency.  
(3.) That He is not only an alsufficient deliverer, able to deliver a soul, that is, as it were, rotting in the grave, and to cause the dead to hear his voice and live; but also most willing and ready to answer them, in all their necessities, according to wisdom, and as He seeth it is for his glory, and their souls advantage. The faith of this is necessary, and will be very encourageing.  
(4.) That they should go to Him, how dead-like so ever their condition be, and by faith roll their dead case upon Him, who is the Life.  
(5.) That they should pray upon the promises of grace and influence, even out of the belly of hell, or of the grave, with jonah Cap. 2: 2. for He is faithful and true, and tender- hearted, and will hear and give a good answer at length.  
(6.) That in the exercise of faith and prayer, they should wait with patience, till He be pleased to come, and breath upon the dry bones, and till the ●…un of righteousness arise on their souls, with healing 〈◊〉 his wings.  
But of this more particularly, in the following cases, which now we come to speak a little unto, of purpose to clear up more fully, how the believer is to make use of Christ, as the Life, when he is under some one distemper or other, that calleth fo●… life and quickening from Christ the Life. We cannot handle distinctly all the particular cases, which may be brought under this head, it will suff●…, for clearing of this great duty, to speak to some few.    

CHAP. XXI. How to make use of Christ as the Life, wh●… the believer is so sitten-up in the ways of God, that he can do nothing.  
SOmetimes the believer is under such a distemper of weakness and deadness, that there is almost no commanded duty, that he can go about: his heart and all is so dead, that he cannot so much as groan under that deadness. Yea he may be und●… such a decay, that little or no difference will be observed betwixt him and others, that are yet in nature; and be not only unable to go actively and livelily about commanded duties, yea or to 〈◊〉 astle from under that deadness; but also be so dead▪ that he shall scarce have any effectual desir●… or longing to be out of that condition. Now▪ in speaking to the use making of Christ, fo●… quickening in this dead case, we shall do tho●… things  
1. For clearing of the case, we shall show how probably it is brought on.  
2. How Christ is life to the soul in such a case, as this.  
3. How the believer is to make use of Christ for life, in this case; and,  
4. Further clear the matter, by answering a question or two.  
As to the first. Such a distemper as this may be brought upon the soul,  
1. Through some strong and violent temptation, from without, meeting with some evil disposition of the heart within, and so surprising & overpowering the poor soul, as we see in David, & Peter.  
2. Through the cunning and slight of Satan, stealing the believer, that is not watchful enough, insensibly off his feet, and singing him asleep by degrees.  
3. Through carelessness, in not adverting at first to the beginnings and first degrees of this deadness and upsiting, when the heart beginneth to grow formal, and superficial in duties, and to be satisfied with a perfunctorious performance, without life and sense.  
4. Through thortureing of conscience, in light ●…nd smaller matters: for this may provock God to ●…et conscience fall a sleep, & so the soul shall become more untender, and scruple little, at length, at greater matters; and thus deadness may come to an hieght, God ordering it so, for a further punishment to them, for their▪ untenderness and uncircumspectnesse.  
5. Through their not stirring up themselves, and shaking off that Spirit of laziness and drowsiness▪ when it first ceaseth upon them; but, with the sluggard, yet another slumber, & another sleep, and a folding of the hands to sleep.  
6. Continuing in some known sin, and not repenting of it, may bring on this distemper, as may be observed in David.  
As to the Second particular; Christ is life to the soul in this case; in that  
1. He keepeth possession of the soul: for the seed remaineth, the root abideth fast in the ground, there is life still at the heart, though the man make no motion; like one in a deep sleep, or in a swoon, yet life is not away.  
2ly. He is due time awakeneth, and rouzeth up the soul, & so recovereth it out of that condition, by one mean or other, either by some alarm of judgement and terror, as He did David; or dispensation of mercy and tenderness, as He did Peter. And usually He recovereth the soul  
1. By discovering something of this condition▪ by giving so much sense and knowledge; and sen●…ing so much light, as will let the soul see, that it 〈◊〉 not well, and that it is under that distemper of lifelesness.  
2. By discovering the dreadfulness of such a condition, and how hazardous it is to countinue therein.  
3. By putting the soul in mind, that He 〈◊〉 the Life, and the resurrection; and through th●… stirring up of grace airting the soul to look to Him for quickening and outgate.  
4. By raseing up the soul at length out of that drowsiness, and sluggish folding of the hands to sleep, and out of that deep security; and putting it into a more lively, vigilant and active frame.  
As to the Third. The believer, that would make use of Christ, for a recovery out of this condition, would mind those duties.  
1. He would look to Christ, as the light of Men, and the enlightner of the blind; to the end, he may get a better and a more through discovery of of his condition; for it is half health here to be sensible of this disease. The soul that is once brought to sense, is half recovered of this fever and lethargy.  
2. He would eye Christ, as God, able to cause the dead and dry bones to live, as Ezech. 37. and this will keep from despondency and despair; yea it will make the poor believer conceive hope, when he seeth that his physician is God, to whom nothing is impossible.  
3. He would look to Him also, as Head and Husband, an Life to the poor soul, that adhereth to Him; and this will strengthen his hope & expectation: for he will see, that Christ is engaged, to speak so, in point of honour, to quicken a poor dead and lifeless member: for the life in the head is for the good of the whole body, and of every member of the body, that is not quite cut off: and the good that is in the husband is forthcoming fo●… the relief of the poor wife, that hath not yet gotten a bill of divorce. And Christ, being Life & the Life, he must be appointed for the relief, the quickening, & recovering from death of such as are given to Him, that they may be finally raised up at the last day, He must present all his members lively in that day.  
4. He would by faith wrap himself up in the promises, and lie before this Sun of righteousness, till the heat of his beams thaw his frozen heart, and bring warmth into his cold and dead soul, and thus renew his grips of Him, accepting of Him, as the Life, and as his Life. Christ himself tells us john. 6: 40. That this is the Father's will, that hath sent Him, that every one which seeth the Son, and believeth on Him, might have everlasting life, and He will raise him up at the last day. Faith closeing with Him, as it was the mean of life at first, so will it be the mean of recovery out of a dead distemper, afterward.  
5. He would mourn for such sins and provocations, as he discovereth in himself to have caused and brought on this distemper. Repentance and godly sorrow for such evils, as have sinned Christ and life away, is a way to bring life back again.  
6. He would be sure to harbour no known sin in his soul, but to set himself against every known evil, as an enemy to the life and recovery, which he is seeking,  
7. He must wait on Christ his Life, in the appointed means: for that is the will of the Lord, that He should be waited- upon there, and sought for there. There is little hopes of recovery for such, as lay aside the ordinances. Though the ordinances without him cannot revive or quicken a poor soul; yet if He hath condescended so far as to come with life to his people, in and through the ordinances, and hath appointed us to wait for Him there, we must be willing to accept of all his condescensions of love, and seek him and wait for Him there, where He hath said, He will be found.  
8. In going about those ordinances of life, He would beware of putting them in Christ's room: that is, He would beware of▪ thinking, that ordinances will do his business: as some ignorantly do, who think that by praying so often a day, and reading so much, and hearing so much, they shall recover their lost lively frame, when (alas!) all the ordinances without Him signify nothing. They, without Him, are cold and lifeless, and can never bring heat or warmth to a cold soul. It is He in the ordinances whom they are to seek, and from whom alone life is to be expected, and none else.  
9 Though life lieth not in the ordinances, as separated from Christ, and life is to be expected from Him alone; yet he would beware of going about the ordinances in a careless, superficial and indifferent manner: for this will argue little desire after life, and will bring-on more deadness. The ordinances than should be gone about seriously, diligently, and with great carefulness, yea with such earnestness, as if life were to be had in them; and yet with such a single and pure dependence on Christ for life, as if we were not about the ordinances at all. This is the right way of going about ordinances.  
10. He must in all this wait with patience, without freting or quarrelling with Him, for his delaying to come▪ He must wait with much humility. It becometh not him, who hath▪ through his folly, sinned life away to quarrel now with God, because he restoreth him not again to life, at the first ask. He may be glade if at length, after long seeking, waiting and much diligence, He come and restore to him the joy of his salvation, and if he be not made to lie as a bedrid all his days, for a monument of folly, in sinning away his life, strength and legs, as he did.  
11. He must beware of giving way to any thing, that may increase or continue this deadness, such as untenderness in his walk, unwatchfulness, negligence and carelessness; and especially he must beware to provock God, by sinning against light.  
12. He would also beware of limiteing the Lord to any set measure of life and strength: for it becometh not beggars to be carvers; far less such beggars, as through folly have sinned away a good portion. It was not fit for the prodigal to seek ●… new patrimony, after he had dilapidated the former, it might suffice him to be made as a servant.  
13. He would use well any small measure of life, he getteth, for God and his glory; getteth he but one talon he should use it, that he may gain thereby: use (we say) limbs and have limbs, use strength and have it. This will be the way to get more.  
14. He would be taking on the vows of the Lord, and that in the Lord, to walk more watchfully in time coming, charging all within and without not to stir or provoke the Lord to depart further, or to scare Him from coming to the soul.  
As to the last particular.  
If it be enquired. 1. What can that soul do, that is not sensible of this deadness and weakness?  
Ans. Though there be not any real sense or feeling of this condition; yet there may be a suspicion, that all is not right: and if this be, the soul must look out to Christ, for the life of sense, and for a sight of the provocations, that have brought on that condition. He that is the Life must recover the very beginnings of life: and when the soul winneth to any real apprehension and sense of this deadness, it must follow the course formerly prescribed, for a recovery.  
2. But it will be asked. How a soul can act faith in such a case? And if it cannot act faith, how can it come to Christ, and make use of Him?  
Answer. It is true, while the soul is in that case, it cannot act a strong and a lively faith; yet it can act a weak and a sickly faith: and a weak and sickly faith can lay hold upon an enlivening Christ, and so bring▪ in more strength and life to the soul. If the soul be so weak, as that it cannot grippe; yet it can look to Him, that can quicken the dead, and hath helped many a poor soul before, out of a dead condition. Or if it cannot do so much as look, yet it may give an half-look, and lie before Him, who waiteth to be gracious; and sustain itself, if it can get no more, with a may be He shall come.  
3. But further it will be asked, what the soul can do▪ when after all this, it findeth no help or supply, but deadness remaining, yea and, it may be, growing?  
Ans. The soul in that case must lie at his door, waiting for his salvation; and resolving, if no better may be, to die at his door; and leave no approven mean, or commanded duty, unessayed, that it may recover its former vigour, activity and strength. And while the believer is waiting thus, he is at his duty; and this may yield him peace, and he may besure that he shall never be ashamed Ps. 25: 3. & 69: 6. Esai. 30: 18.   

CHAP. XXII. How Christ is to be made use of for life, in case of heartlessness and fainting, through discouragements.  
THere is another evil and distemper, which believers are subject to, and that is a case of fainting through manifold discouragements, which make them so heartless, that they can do nothing; yea and to sit up, as if they were dead. The question than is. How such a soul shall make use of Christ, to the end it may be freed from that fit of fainting, and win over those discouragments: for satisfaction to which, we shall  
1. Name some of those discouragements, which occasione this.  
2. Show what Christ hath done, to remove all those discouragements.  
3. Show how the soul should make use of Christ for life, in this case; and  
4. Add a few words of caution.  
As to the first. There are several things, which may give occasion to this distemper; we shall name those few.  
1. The sense of a strong, active, lively, and continually stirring body of death, and that not withstanding of means used to bear it down, and to kill it. This is very discourageing: for it made Paul cry out woes me miserable man, who shall deliver me from this body of death, Rom. 7: 24. It is a most discouraging thing, to be still fight, and yet getting no ease, let be victory; to have to do with an enemy, that abides always alike strong, fight and oppose as we will, yea not only is not weakened far less overcome, but that groweth in power and prevaileth. And this many times affecteth the heart of God's children, and causeth them to faint.  
2. It may be the case of some, that they are assaulted with strange temptations of Satan, his buffet, that are not usual. This made Paul cry out thrice, 2 Cor. 12. and if the Lord had not told him, that His grace was sufficient for him, what would he have done? Hence some of his cry out, in their complaint, was there ever any so tempted, so assaulted with the devil, as I am? Sure, this dispensation cannot but be much afflicting, sadning and discourageing.  
3. The sense of the real weakness of grace under lively means, and notwithstanding of their serious and earnest desires, and endeavours after growth in grace, cannot but disquiet and discourage them: for they may readily conclude, that all their pains and labour shall be in vain, for any thing they can observe.  
4. The want of sensible incomes of joy and comfort, is another fainting and discourageing dispensation; as the feeling of these is a heart-strengthening and most encourageing thing, which made David so earnestly cry for it Psal. 51: 8, 12. when a poor soul, that hath the testimony of its own conscience, that it hath been, in some measure of singleness of heart and honesty, seeking the face of God, for a good many years, and yet cannot say, that ever it knew what those incomes of joy and comfort mean, which some have tasted largely of, it cannot choose but be discouraged, and much cast down, as not knowing what to say of itself, or how to judge of its own case.  
5. The want of access in their addresses to God, is another heart-discouraging thing. They go about the duty of prayer, with that measure of earnestness and uprightness of heart, that they can win at, at least this is their aim and endeavour, and yet they meet with a fast-closed door: when they cry & shout, he shooteth out their prayer; as the Church complaineth Lament. 3: 8. This sure will affect them deeply, and cause their hearts sometimes to faint.  
6. The want of freedom and liberty in their addrese to God, is another thing, which causeth sorrow and fainting. They go to pray, but their tongue cleaveth to the roof of their mouth; they are straitened, and cannot get their hearts vented.  
7. Outward persecution, that attendeth the way of godliness, and afflictions, that accompany such as live godly, is another discourageing thing, both to themselves, who are under afflictions; and to others, who hear it and see it; wherefore the Apostle desired earnestly, that the Ephesians should not faint at his tribulation, Cap. 3: 13.  
8. The Lords sharp and sore dispensations for sin, as toward David Psal. 51. or out of his Sovereignty for trial and other ends, as toward job, is likewise a discourageing heart-breaking thing, and that which will make strong giants to roar and faint, and look upon themselves as dead men, as we see in these two eminent men of God.  
As to the second thing. Christ is life to the believer, in this case, in having done that which in reason may support, under all these discouragements, and having done so much for removing or weakening of these; yea and for carrying them over them all, which may be in a word cleared, as to each.  
1. As for the body of death. Let it stir in the believer, as fast as it will, or can, it is already killed, & all that struggling is but like the struggling of a man in the pangs of death; for our old man is crucified with Christ, Rom. 6: 6. and the believer is dead to sin, and risen legally with him, Col. 2: 11, 12. & 3: 3. But of this we spoke abundance above.  
2. As to Satan's troubling the poor believer. Through Christ also he is a vanquished enemy. He hath overcome him that had the power of death, even the devil, Heb. 2: 14.  
3. As for that felt weakness of grace. That is no ground of discouragement, so long as he liveth, who can make the lame to leep as an hart, and can make waters break out in the wilderness, and streams in the desert. Esai. 35: 6, 7. and giveth power to the faint, and to them that have no might increaseth strength: so that such as wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength, and they shall mount up with wings as eagles, they shall run and not be weary, and they shall walk and not faint, Esai. 40: 29, 31. For in H●…m are all the promises yea & amen, 2 Cor. 1: 20. So that they need not faint upon this account, nor be discouraged: for the work He hath begun, He will finish it, and He will quicken in the way, Psal. 119: 37.  
4. As for the want of sensible incomes of joy and comfort: He hath promised to send the comforter, in his own good time, john. 14: 26. & 15: 26. as one whom his mother comforteth, so will he comfort his, Esai. 66. 13. Joy and gladness is promised in the covenant, jer. 31: 13. But further; though He keep up those influences of joy and comfort, He supporteth another way. The lively hope of heaven may bear up the heart, under all this want: for there shall the soul have fullness of joy and pleasures for ever more: no tears, nor sorrow there, Psal. 16: 11. Esa. 35: 10. & 51: 11.  
5. As for the want of access in their prayers. They may possibly blame themselves, for He hath by his merits opened the door; and is become (to speak so) master usher to the poor soul, to lead him, in to the Father, so that by him we have access, Ephes. 2: 18. yea boldness and access, through faith in Him Ephes. 3: 12. and He is our advocate 1. john. 2: 1. and as our atturnay is gone to heaven before us; and there liveth for ever to make intercession Heb. 6: 20▪ & 7: 25. And what is there more to be done, to procure us access? or to move & encourage us to come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need? Heb. 4: 14, 16.  
6. As to that want of freedom and liberty in prayer: He helpeth that also: for He maketh the dumb to sing, Esa. 35: 6. and maketh the tongue of the stammerers to be ready to speak elegantly, Esai. 32: 4. He can enlairge the heart, and help the soul to pour-out its heart before God.  
7. As to outward persecution: He can easily take that discouragement away, by giving the hundereth fold with it: by supporting under it, and bringing saife thorough it: when his presence is with them through fire and water, Esa. 43: 2. what can trouble them? and when he maketh their consolations abound, 2 Cor. 1: 5. what can discourage them? Have not his sung in the very fires? and rejoiced in all their afflictions? The resting of the Spirit of God and of glory, which Peter speaketh of, 1 Pet. 4: 14. is comfortable enough.  
8. As for all those sharp dispensations, mentioned in the last place: He, having taken the sting of all, even of death, away, by taking away sin, and purchased the blessing and love of the Father, having made reconciliation through his blood, all those dispensations flow from love, even such as seem sharpest, being inflicted for sin, as we see Heb. 12: 6. So that there is no cause here of fainting, or of being so discouraged, as to give over the matter. But for help in this case, there should be an use making of Jesus, as the Life; and that is  
The third thing, which we shall speak a little to, viz How the soul should make use of Christ, as the Life, to the end it may be delivered from this fainting, occasioned through manifold discouragements,  
1. The believer in this case would mind the covenant of Redemption, wherein Christ hath promised, and so standeth obliged and engaged, to carry on his own through all discouragements, to the end; so that if any one believer miscarry, Christ loseth more than they can lose: for the believer can but lose his soul, but Christ shall lose his glory, and this is more worth, than all the souls that ever were created. And further, not only shall Christ lose his glory, as Redeemer; But the Father shall also lose his glory, in not making good his promise to Christ his Son: for by the same covenant, He standeth engaged to carry thorough all the seed, that Christ hath died for. And his appointing Christ to be his servant for this end, and chooseing Him from among all the folk▪ and his upholding of Him, concurring with him, delighting in Him, and promiseing that He shall bring forth judgement to the gentiles, and that, to victory, or to truth, speak out His engadgment to see all true believers brought home. See Esai. 42: 1, 2, 3▪ 4. Mat. 12: 17, 18, 19, 20, 21. Psal. 89: 19, 20, 21, 28, 29▪ 35, 36, 37. S●…re, the faith of this would support the poor believer, under all those discouragements.  
2. They would mind likewise the covenant of Grace, wherein all things are contrived and laid down, so as that the believer may have abundant consolation and comfort, in all cases; and wherein there is enough to take away all cause of fainting & discouragement: as might fully be made to appear, if any did question it.  
3. They would remember how richly Christ is furnished, with all qualifications, suiteing even that case, wherein they are like to be overwhelmed with discouragements: and could the believer but think upon, and believe those three things, he might be keeped-up under all discouragements first. That Christ is a compassionate tenderhearted mediator, having bowels more tender, than the bowels of any mother; so that He will not break the bruised reed, nor quench the smoking flax Esai. 42: 3. He had compassion on the very bodies of the multitude, that followed him; and would not let them go away fasting, lest they should faint in the way, Mat. 15: 32. Mark. 8: 3. and will He not have compassion on the souls of his followers, when like to faint through spiritual discouragements? Secondly. That He hath power and authority to command all things, that can serve to carray-on a poor believer: for all power in Heaven and Earth is given to Him; all things are made subject to Him. Thirdly. That He hath a great readiness and willingness, upon many accounts, to help his followers in their necessities. Sure, were these three firmly believed, the believer could not ●…aint, having Christ, who is tender and loving & willing to help, and withal able to do what he will, to look to, and to run to, for supply.  
4. They would take up Christ, under all his heart-strengthening, and soul comforting relations, as a tender Brother, a careful Shepherd, a fellow-feeling Highpriest, a loving Husband, a sympathising Head, a life-communicating Root, an alsufficient King etc. any one of which is enough to bear up the head, and comfort the heart of a drooping, discouraged and fainting soul: much more may all of them yield strong consolation, to support & revive a soul, staggering and fainting, through discouragement. Oh! if we could but rightly improve, and dwell upon the thoughts of these comforting and heart-quickening relations! our hearts would not fail us, so much as they do.  
5. They would eye Him, as now in glory, who, as Head and Captain of salvation, hath wreastled through, and overcome all difficulties and discouragments, that were in his way, and in name and behalf of all believers, that are his followers, and members of his body, is now possessed of glory, and thence draw an heart-comforting, and soul-strengthening conclusion, thus. Is He entered into glory as Head, than such a poor faint hearted, heart-brocken, discouraged worm, as I am, may at length come there, as a little bit of his body, especially since He said, that seeing He liveth all his shall live also, joh. 14: 19  
6. They would remember how Christ, who was always heard of his Father, john. 11: 41, 42. did supplicat for this, as Mediator and Intercessor for his people john. 17: 24. saying, Father, I will th●… they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me, where I am, etc. May not the poor faint-hearted, believer, that is looking to jesus, draw an heart-reviveing & soul encouraging conclusion out of this, & say. Though my prayers be shote out, and when I cry for relief under my discouragements, I get no hearing; but, on the contrary, my discouragements grow, and my heart fainteth the more; yet Christ always was heard, and the Father will not say Him nay, why then may I not lift up my head in hope, and sing in the hope of the glory of God, 〈◊〉 the midst of all my discouragements?  
7. By faith they would cast all their discouragements, entanglements, and difficulties, as burdens, too heavy for their back, on Christ, and ●…eave them there with Him, who only can remove them; and withal resolve never to give over, but ●…o go forward in his strength, and thus become daily ●…ronger and stronger in resolutions, purposes, desires and endeavours, when they can do no ●…ore.  
8. They would look to Jesus, the author and ●…isher of faith, and set Him before them, as a copy ●…f courage, who, for the joy, that was set before Him▪ ●…dured the cross, despiseing the shame, and en●…red contradiction of sinners against himself Heb. 12: 2, 3. and this may prove a mean to keep us ●…om wearrying and fainting in our minds, as the ●…postle hinteth there.  
9 They would remember, that Christ, going ●…fore, as the Captain of salvation, hath brocken ●…e ye to them, and the force and strength of all ●…ose discouragements, as we did lately show; so ●…at now they should be looked upon, as brocken & ●…owerlesse discouragements.  
10. They would fix their eye by faith on jesus, as ●…ly able to do their business, to bear up their ●…ad, to carry them thorough discouragements, to ●…ply cordials to their fainting hearts; and remain ●…red in that posture and resolution, looking for ●…rengthening and encourageing-life from Him, & ●…om Him alone: and thus declare that 1. They ●…e unable in themselves to stand-out such storms of discouragements and to wrestle thorough such difficulties. 2. They believe, He is only able to bear them up, and carry them thorough, & make them to despise all those discouragements, which the Devil and their own evil hearts muster up against them. 3. That, come what will come, they will not quite the bargain, they will never recall or take back their subscription and consent to the covenant of grace, and to Christ as theirs, offered therein, though they should die, and die again, by the way. 4. That they would fain be keeped-on in the way, and helped forward, without failing and fainting by the way. 5. That they cannot run▪ thorough hard walls, they cannot do impossibilities, they cannot break thorough such mighty discouragements. 6. That yet through Him, they can d●… all things. 7. That He must help, or they 〈◊〉 gone, and shall never win thorough all these difficulties and discouragements, but shall one day or other die by the hand of Saul. 8. That they wil●… wait earnestly seeking help from Him, crying for it, and looking for it, and resolve never ●… give over, and if they be disappointed, 〈◊〉 a●… disappointed.  
Now for the last particular. The word of ca●…tion. Take these.  
1. They would not think to be altogether 〈◊〉 of fainting: for there is no perfection here, an●… there is much flesh and corruption remaining, 〈◊〉 that will occasion fainting.  
2. Nor would they think to be free of all 〈◊〉 causes and occasions of this fainting, viz the discouragements formerly mentioned, or the like for, if the devil can do any thing, he will work discouragements, both within and without. So that they would lay their resolution to meet with discouragaments: for few or none ever went to heaven, but they had many a storm in their face, and they must not think to have a way paved for themselves alone.  
3. They would not poor too much, nor dwell too long and too much upon the thoughts of those discouragements: for that is Satan's advantage, & tendeth to weaken themselves. But it were better to be looking beyond them, as Christ did Heb. 12: 2. when he had the cross and the shame to wrestle with, He looked to the joy that was set before Him; and that made Him endure the cross, and despise the shame: and as Moses did Heb. 11: 25, 26, 27. when he had afflictions, and the wrath of the King to wrestle against, He had respect unto the recompense of the reward, and so he endured as seeing Him who is invisible.  
4. They would remember, that as Christ hath tender bowels, and is full of compassion, and is both ready & able to help them, so is He wise, & knoweth how to let-out his mercies best. He is not like a foolish affectionate mother, that would hazard the life of the child, before she put the child to any pain. He seeth what is best for his own glory, and for their good, here and hereafter; & that He will do, with much tenderness & readiness.  
5. They would look upon it, as no mean mercy, if, notwithstanding of all the discouragements; and storms that blow in their face, they are helped to keep their face up the hill, & are fixed in this resolution, never willingly to turn their back upon the way of God; but to continue creeping forward, as they may, whatever storms they meet with: yea upon this account, ought they heartily to bless his name, and to rejoice; for their hearts shall live that seek Him, Psal. 22: 26.  
6. They would remember, for their encouragement, that as many have been helped thorough all discouragements, & have been brought home at length, so may they be brought thorough all those storms, which now they wrestle with. It is the glory of the Mediator to bring his brocken, torn & sinking vessels saife to shore.  
Now I come to a third case, & that is   

CHAP. XXIII. How to make use of Christ as the Life, when the soul is dead, as to duty.  
SOmetime the believer will be under such ●… distemper, as that he will be as unfit & unable for dischargeing of any commanded duty, as a dead man, or one in a swoon, is to work or go a journay: & it were good to know how Christ should be made use of, as the Life, to the end the diseased soul may be delivered from this: for this cause, we shall consider those four things,  
1. See what are the several steps & degrees of this distemper.  
2. Consider whence it cometh, or what are the causes or occasions thereof.  
3. Consider how Christ is life to the soul, in such a dead case: &  
4. Point out the way of the souls usemaking of Christ, that would be delivered herefrom.  
As to the first. This distemper cometh-on by several steps & degrees: it will be sufficient to mention some of the main & most remarkable steps; such as,  
1. There is a falling from our watchfulness & tenderness: & when we leave our watchtour, we invite & encourage Satan to set upon us; as was said before.  
2. There is going about duty but in a lazy way, when we love & seek after carnal ease, and seek out ways of doing the duty, so as may be least troublesome to the flesh; as the Spouse did, Cant. 3: 1. when she sought her beloved upon her bed.  
3. There is a lying by, & not stirring up ourselves to an active way of going about duty, of which the Prophet complaineth, Esai. 64: 7. when he sayeth, there is none that stirreth up himself to take hold of thee.  
4. There is a giving way to spiritual drowsiness, & upsitting in duties, & in the ways of God. I sleep (said the Spouse Cant. 5: 2, 3.) & I have put off my coat etc. She knew she was not right, but was drowsy, & yet she did not shake it off, but composed herself for it, took off her coat, & washed her feet, & so lay down to sleep.  
5. There is a satisfaction and contentment with his condition, as thinking we are pretty well; at least, for that time; and thus was the spouse in that forementioned place led away, she was so far from being dissatisfied with her condition, that she rather expresseth her contentment therewith.  
6. There may be such a love to such a condition, & such a satisfaction in it, as that they may shift every thing, that hath a tendency to rouse them up out of that sluggish laziness, as not loving to be awakened out of their sleep. So we see the Bride shift●… & putteth off Christ's call & invitation to her, to arise & open to Him.  
7. Yea, there is a defending of that condition, as, at least, tolerable & none of the worst; a justifying of it; or, at least, a pleading for themselves & excuseing the matter, & covering over their neglect of duty with fair pretexts, as the Spouse did, when she answered Christ's call, with this, that she had washed her feet & might not defile them agine.  
8. Yea further, there is a pleading for this case, by alleging an impossibility to get it helped, 〈◊〉 matters now stand; or at least, they will muster up insuperable-like difficulties, in their own way of doing duty, as the sluggard will say, that there is a lion in the way: & the Spouse alleged she could not put on her coat again.  
9 Yea, it way come yet higher, even to a peremptour refuseing to set about the duty: for what else can be read out of the Bride's carriage▪ than that she would not rise, and open to her beloved?  
10. There is also a desperate laying the duty aside, as supposeing it impossible to be goat done, and so a resolute laying of it by as hopeless, and as a business, they need not trouble themselves with ●…l, because they will not get it throughed.  
11. And hence floweth an utter indisposition, & unfitness for duty.  
12. Yea, and in some it may came to this hieght that the thoughts of going about any commanded duty, especially of worship, either in public or Private; or their minting, and attempting to set about it, shall fill them with terror and affrightment, that they shall be constrained to forbear, yea to lay aside all thoughts of going about any such duty.  
This is a very dead- like condition, what can be the causes or occasions thereof▪  
I answer▪ (And this is the Second particular) Some, or all of those things may be considered, as ●…ving a hand in this.  
1. No care to keep up a tender frame of heart, but growing slack, loose and careless, in going ●…bout christian duties, may bring- on such a dis●…emper.  
2. Slighting of challenges for omission of duties, or leaving duties over the belly of conscience, may make way for such an evil.  
3. Giving way to carnality and formality in duties, is a ready mean to usher- in this evil: for ●…hen the soul turns carnal o●… formal, in the discharge of duties, duties have not that spiritual lustre, which they had, & the soul becometh the sooner wearied of them, as seeing no such desireablnesse in them, ●…or advantage by them▪  
4. When people drown themselves in the cares of the world, they occasion this deadness to themselves: for then duties not only are not gone about heartily, but they are looked on as a burden, and the man becometh weary of them; and from that he cometh to neglect them; and by continueing in the neglect of them, he contracteth an aversation of heart from them; & then an utter unfitness and indisposition, for dischargeing of them, followeth.  
5. Satan hath an active hand here driveing-on with his crafts and wiles from one step to another.  
6. The hand also of a Sovereign God is to be observed here, giving way to this, yea and ordering matters in his justice and wisdom so, as such persons shall come under such an indisposition, and that for wise and holy ends, as 1. That by such a dispensation he may humble them; who possibly were puffed up before, as thinking themselves fit enough to go about any duty, how difficult or hazardous soever, as Peter, who boasted so of his own strength, as he thought nothing to lay down his life for Christ, and to die with him; and yet at length came to that, that he could not, or durst not, speak the truth before a damsel. 2. That He may punish one spiritual sin with another. 3. To give warning to all to watch, and pray, and to work out their salvation with fear and trembling, and not to be high minded but fear. 4. That thereby, in his just and righteous judgement▪ He may lay a stumbling block before some, to the breaking of their neck, when they shall, for ●…his cause reject and mock at all religion. 5. That He may give proof at length of his admirable skill recovering from such a distemper, that no flesh might have ground to despare, in the most dead condition. they can fall into. 6. And to show sometimes, what a Sovereign dispensator of life He is, and how free He is in all his favours.  
As to the third particular. How Christ is Life, in this case?  
We answer. 1. By keeping possession of the believer, even when he seemeth to be most dead; ●…nd keeping life at the root, when there is neither fruit appearing, nor flourishes, and hardly many grean leaves, to evidence life.  
2. By blowing at the coal of grace in the soul, in his own time and way, and putting an end to the winter, and sending the time of the singing of the birds, a spring- time of life.  
3. By looseing the bands, with which he was held fast formerly, enlargeing the heart with desires to go about the duty; so that now he willingly ris●… up out of his bed of security, and cheerfully ●…aketh off his drowsiness, and sluggishness, and former unwillingness; and now with willingness, and cheerfulness he setteth about the duty.  
4. By sending influences of life and strength into the soul, whereby the wheels of the soul are made to run with ease, being oiled with those divine influences.  
5. And this he doth by touching the heart, and ●…akening it by his Spirit, as He raised th●… Spouse out of her bed of security and leazinesse, by putting in his hand by the hole of the door, than were her bowels moved for Him, ant. 5: vers. 4. and thus He setteth faith on work again, having the key of David to open the heart, Revel 3: vers. 7.  
6. By giving a discovery of the evil of their former ways and courses, He worketh up the heart to godly sorrow and remorse, for what is done, making their bowels move for grief and sorrow, that they should have so dishonoured and grieved Him.  
7. By setting the soul thus on work to do, what formerly it neither could, nor would do; and thus He maketh the soul strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might, Epes. 6: 10. and able to run and not be weary, and to walk and not be faint, Esai. 40.  
8. By discovering the great recompense of reward that is coming, and the great help they have at hand, in the Covenant and promises thereof, and in Christ, their Head and Lord▪ He maketh the burden light, and the duty easy.  
As to the Last particular viz. How a believer in such a case should make use of Christ, as the Life, that he may be delivered therefrom?  
When the poor believer is any way sensible of this decay, and earnestly desiring to be from under that power of death, and in case to go about commanded duties, he would  
1. Look to Christ for enlightened eyes, that he may get a more through discovery of the hazard & wreatchednesse of such a condition, that hereby being awakened and alarmed he may more willingly use the means of recovery, and be more willing to be at some pains to be delivered.  
2. He would run to the blood of Jesus, to get the guilt of his by gone sinful ways washen away, and bloated out; to the end he may obtain the favour of God, and get his reconciled face shineing upon him again.  
3. He would eye Christ, as a Prince exalted to give repentance, that so his sorrow for his former sinful courses, may be kindly, spiritual, through and affecting the heart. He would cry to Christ, that He would put- in his hand by the hole of the door, that his bowels may become moved for Him.  
4. He would also look to Him, as that good Shepherd, who will strengthen that which is sick, Ezech. 34: 16. And take notice also of his other Relations, and of his Obligations thereby, and by the Covenant of Redemption; and this will strengthen his hope.  
5. He would lay hold on Christ as his Strength, whereby his feet may be made like hind's feet, and he may be made to walk upon his high places, Habb. 3: 19 and he would grippe to that promise, Esai. 41: 10▪ I will strengthen thee; and lay hold on Christ in it.  
6. Having done thus, he would set about every commanded duty, in the strength of Jesus, looking to Him for help and supply, from whom cometh all his strength: and though he should not find that help and assistance, which he expected, yet he would not be discouraged, but continue, and when he can do no more offer himself▪ as ready and willing to go about the duty, as if he had strength.  
7. He would lie open to, and be ready to receive the influences of strength, which He, who is the Head, shall think good to give, in his own time manner and measure: and this taketh in those duties:  
1. That they would carefully guaird against the evils formerly mentioned, which brought on this distemper; such as Carelessness, untenderness▪ unwatchfulness, laziness, carnal Security, Formality, and want of Seriousness, etc.  
2. That they would beware of giving way to despondency, or of concludeing the matter hopeless, and remediless: for that is both discourageing to the soul, and a tempting provocation of God.  
3. That they should be exerciseing the grace of patient Waiting.  
4. That they should be waiting, in the use of the appointed means, and thereby, as it were, rubbing the dead and cold member before the fire, till it gather warmth.  
5. That they should be keeping all their sails ●…p, waiting for the gaile of the Spirit, that should make their ship sail.  
6. That they should be looking to Him alone, who hath promised that quickening Spirit; and patiently waiting his leisure, not limiting Him to any definite time.  
7. That they should be cherishing and stirring up any small beginnings that are.  
8. That they should be welcoming most cheerfully every motion of the Spirit, and improveing every advantage of that kind, and striking the iron when it is hot, and hold the wheels of the soul a going, when they are once put in motion, and so be loath to grieve the good and holy Spirit of God, Ephes. 4: vers. 30. or to quench his motions. 1 Thes. 5: vers. 19  
If these duties were honestly minded and gone about, in Him, and in His strength; none can tell, how soon there might be a change wrought in the soul.  
But of it be asked what such can do, to whom the very thoughts of the duty, and aimeing at it is matter of terror.  
Ans. It may be something, if not much, of that may flow from such a bodily distemper, as occasioneth the alteration of the body, upon the through apprehension of any thing, that is weighty and of moment, so as they cannot endure to be much affected with any thing: But leaving this to others, I would advise such a soul to those duties.  
1. To be frequently setting to the duty, as for example of prayer, though that should raise the distemper of their body: for, through time that may wear away, or at least grow less; while as their giving way thereto will still make the duty the more and more terrible, and so render themselves the more unfit for it, and thus they shall gratify Satan, who (it may be) may have a hand in that bodily distemper too: when the poor soul is thus accustomed or habituated to the attempting of the duty, it will at length appear not so terrible as it did; & so the body may become not so soon altered thereby, as it was.  
2. When such an one can do no more, He would keep his love to the duty, and his desires after ●…t, fresh and lively: and would not suffer these quite to die out.  
3. He would be much in the use of frequent ejaculations, and of short supplications darted up to God; for these will not make such an impression on the body, and so will not so occasion the raiseing and wakening of the bodily distemper, as more solemn addresses to God in prayer would possibly do.  
4. If he cannot go to Christ with confidence, to draw out of Him life and strength, according to his need; yet he may give a look to Him, though it were from a far: and he may think of Him, and speak of Him frequently: and would narrowly observe every thing, that pointeth Him out, or bringeth any thing of Him to remembrance.  
5. Such souls would not give way to despairing thoughts, as if their case were wholly helpless and hopeless: for that is a reflecting upon the power & skill of Christ: and therefore is provoking and dishonourable to Him.  
6. Let Christ, and all that is His, be precious always and lovely unto them. And thus they would keep some room in their heart open for Him; till He should be pleased to come to them with salvation. And who can tell, how soon He may come?  
But enough of this: there is a Fourth case of deadness to be spoken to; and that is this.   

CHAP. XXIV. How shall the soul make use of Christ, as the life, which is under the prevailing power of unbeleef & infidelity.  
THat we may help to give some clearing to a poor soul in this case, we shall  
1. See what are the several steps and degrees of this distemper.  
2. Consider what the causes hereof are.  
3. Show how Christ is life to a soul in such a case: and  
4. Give some directions, how a soul in that case, should make use of Christ, as the Life, to the end, it may be delivered therefrom.  
And first. There are many several steps to, and degrees of this distemper: we shall mention a few, as  
1. When they cannot come with confidence, and draw ou●… of Him by faith, what their souls case calleth for; they cannot with joy draw waters out of the wells of salvation, Esai. 12: 3. But keep at a distance, and entertain jealous thoughts of Him: this is a degree of unbelief, making way for more.  
2. When they cannot confidently assert, and avow their interest in Him, as the Church did, Esai. ●…2: 2. saying Behold, God is my salvation, I will trust and not be afra●…ed; for the Lord je hovah is my strength, & my song▪ He also is become my salvation,  
3. when they much question, if ever they have indeed laid hold on Christ; and so cannot go to Him, for the supply of their wants and necessities.  
4. When moreover they question, if they be allowed of God, and warranted to come to Him, and lay hold upon Him: yea and they think they have many arguments, whereby to maintain this their unbelief, and justify their keeping aback from Christ.  
5. Or when, if they look to Him at all, it is with much mixture of faithless fears that they shall not be the better: or, at least, doubting whether it shall be to their advantage or not.  
6. This unbeleef will advance further, and they may come to that, not only to conclude, that they have no part or portion in Him▪ but also to conclude, that their case is desperate and irremediable: and so say, there is no more hope, they are cut off for their part, as Ezech. 37: 11. and so lie▪ by as dead and forlorn.  
7. Yea they may come higher, and vent some desperate thoughts and expressions of God, to the great scandal of the godly, and to the dishonour of God.  
8. And yet more, they may come that length, to question all the promises, and cry out, with David in his haste, Psal. 116: 11. that all men are liars.  
9 Yea they may come to this, to account the whole gospel, to be nothing but a heap of delusions, and a cunningly devised fable, or but mere notions and fancies.  
10. And at length come to question, if there be a God, that ruleth in the Earth.  
These are dreadful degrees and steps of this horrid distemper, and enough to make all flesh tremble.  
Let us see next, whence this cometh. The causes hereof we may reduce to three heads.  
First. The holy Lord hath a holy hand in this, and hath noble ends and designs before Him, in this matter: as  
1. The Lord may think good to order matters thus, that He may magnify his power and grace, in reseveing such, as were returned to the very brink of hell, and seemed to many to be lost and irrecoverably gone.  
2. Tha●… in punishing them thus, for giving way to the first motions of unbelief, he might warn all to guaird against such an evil, and not to foster and give way to groundless complaints, nor entertain objections, moved against their condition by the devil.  
3. To warn all to walk circumspectly, and to worke-out their salvation with fear and trembling, not knowing what may befall them, ere they die.  
4. To teach all to walk humbly, not knowing what advantage Satan may get of them, ere all be done; and to see their daily need of Christ to strengthen their faith, and to keep their grips of Him fast.  
5. So the Lord may think good to dispense so with some, that he may give a full proof of his wonderfully great patience and longanimity, in bearing with such▪ and that so long.  
6. As also to demonstrate his Sovereignty, in measureing out his dispensations to his own, as he seeth will most glorify himself.  
Next, Satan hath an active hand in this, for  
1. He raiseth clouds and mists in the believer, so that he cannot see the work of God within himself, and so is made to cry out, that he hath no grace, and that all was but delusions, and imaginations, which he looked upon as grace before.  
2. He raiseth up in them jealousies of God, and of all his ways, and puts a false gloss and construction on all, which God doth, to the end he may confirm them in their jealousies, which they have drunk in of God.  
3. Having gained this ground, he worketh then upon their corruption, with very great advantage; and thus driveth them from evil to worse, and not only to question their present interest in Christ, but also to quite all hope for the time to come.  
4. This being done, he driveth the soul yet further, and filleth it with prejudices against God & his glorious truths; and from this he can easily bring them to call all in question.  
5. Yea he will represent God as an enemy to them; and when this is done, how easy is it with him to put them on desperate courses, and cause them speak wickedly and desperately of God?  
6. And when this is done, he can easily darken the understanding, that the poor soul shall not see the glory of the gospel, and of the covenant of grace, nor the lustre and beauty of holiness: yea and raise prejudices against the same, because there is no hope of partaking of the benefit thereof and so bring them on, to a plain questioning of all, as ●…eer delusions.  
7. And when he hath gotten them brought this length▪ he hath fair advantage to make them question if there be a God and so drive them forward to Atheism. And thus deceitfully he can carry the soul from one step to another.  
But thirdly. There are many sinful causes of this, within the man self as  
1. Pride and haughtiness, of mind, as thinking their mountain standeth so strong, that it cannot be moved: and this provoketh God to hide his face, as, Psal. 30.  
2. Self confidence, a concomitant of pride, supposing themselves to be so well rooted, that they cannot be shaken, whileas it were better for them to walk in fear.  
3. Want of watchfulness over a deceitful heart, and an evil heart of unbeleef, that is still departing from the living God, Heb. 3: 12. It is good to be jealous here.  
4. Giving way to doubtings and questionings too readily at first. It is not good to tempt the Lord by parlying too much and too readily with Satan Eva's practice might be a warning sufficient to us.  
5. Not living in the sight of their wants, and of their daily necessity of Christ, nor acting faith upon Him daily, for the supplying of their wants: and when faith is not used, it may contract rust and be weakened, and come at length not to be discer●…ed.  
6. Entertaining of jealous thoughts of God, and harkening too readily to any thing, that foster and increase, or confirm these.  
7. Not delighting themselves in, and with pleasure dwelling on the thoughts of Christ, of his offices, of the gospel, and promises; so that these come at length to lose their beauty and glory, in the soul, and have not the lustre that once they had; and this doth open a door to much mischief.  
8. In a word, not walking with God, according to the gospel, provoketh the Lord to give them up to themselves for a time.  
We come now to the Third particular, which is to show, How Chest is life to the poor soul in this case. And for the clearing of this, consider  
1. That Christ is the author and finisher of faith, Heb 12: 2. and so, as He did rebuke unbeleef at the first, he can rebuke it again.  
2. That He is the great Prophet, clearing up the gospel, and every thing, that is necessary for us to know, bringing life and immortality to light by the gospel, 2 Tim. 1: 11. and so manifesting the lustre and beauty of the gospel.  
3. He bringeth the promises home to the soul, in their reality, excellency, and truth, being the faithful witness and the Amen, Revel 3: 14. and the confirmer of the promises, so that they are all yea and Amen in him, 2 Cor. 1: 20. And this serveth to establish the soul in the faith, and to shoot-out thoughts of unbelief.  
4. So doth He, by his Spirit, dispel the mists & clouds, which Satan, through unbeleef, had raised in the soul.  
5. And thereby also rebuketh those mistakes of God, and prejudices at Him and his ways, which Satan hath wrought there, through corruption.  
6. He discovereth himself to be a ready help in time of trouble▪ the hope and anchor of salvation, Heb. 6: 19 and a Priest living for ever to make intercession for poor sinners, Heb. 7: 25.  
7. And hereby he cleareth up to the poor soul a possibility of help and relief; and thus rebuketh despair, or preventeth it.  
8. He manifesteth himself to be the ma●…ow and substance of the gospel: and this maketh every line thereof pleasant and beautiful to the soul and so freeth them from the prejudices that they had at it.  
2. So in manifesting himself in the gospel, he revealeth the Father, that the soul cometh to the knowledge of the glory of God, in the face of Jesus Christ, 2 Cor. 4: 6. and this saveth the soul from atheism  
10. When the soul cannot grippe Him, nor look to Him, yet He can look to the soul, and by his look quicken and revive the soul, and warm the heart with love to Him, and at length move and incline it sweetly to open to Him. And thus grippe and hold fast a lost sheep, yea and bring it home again.  
But what should a soul do in such a case. To this (which is the Fourth particular to be spoken to) I answer.  
1. They would strive against those evils, formerly mentioned, which procured or occasioned this distemper: a stop should be put to these malignant humours.  
2. They would be careful to lay again the foundation of solid knowledge of God, and of his glorious truths, revealed in the gospel: and labour for the faith of God's truth and veracity: for till this be, nothing can be right in the soul.  
3. They would be throughly convinced of the treachery, deceitfulness, and wickedness of their hearts, that they may see it is not worthy to be trusted, and that they may be jealous of it, and not hearken so readily to it, as they have done, especially seeing Satan can prompt it to speak for his advantage.  
4. They would remember also, that it is divine help, that can recover them, and cause them grippe to the promises, and lay hold on them of new again, as well as at the first, and that of themselves, they can do nothing.  
5. In useing of the means for the recovery of life, they would eye Christ, and because this eyeing of Christ is faith, and their disease lieth most there they would do as the Israelits did, who were stung in the eye with the serpents, they looked to the brazen serpent with the wounded and stung eye: so would they do with a sickly, and almost dead, faith, grip Him, and with an eye, almost put out and made blind, look to Him, knowing how ready He is to help, and what a tender heart He hath.  
6. And to confirm them in this resolution, they would take a new vieu of all the notable encouragements to believe, wherewith the whole gospel aboundeth.  
7. And withal, fix on Him, as the only author and finisher of faith.  
8. And in a word, They would cast a wonderderfully unbelieving, and atheistical soul on Him, who is wonderful in counsel, and excellent in working and is wonderful in mercy and grace, and in all his ways. And thus may He at length, in his own time, and in the way that will most glorify Himself, raise up that poor soul, out of the grave of infidelity, wherein it was stinking; and so prov●… Himself to be indeed the resurrection and the life, to the praise of the glory of his grace.  
We come now to speak to another case, which is   

CHAP. XXV. How Christ is to be made use of, as the life, by one that is so dead and senseless, as he cannot know what to judge of himself, or his own case, except that it is naught.  
WE spoke something to this very case upon the matter, when we spoke of Christ as the Truth. Yet we shall speak alittle to it here; but shall not enlarge particulars formerly mentioned: and therefore we shall speak alittle to those five particulars; and so,  
1. Show, what this distemper is.  
2. Show, whence it proceedeth, and how the soul cometh to fall into it.  
3. Show, how Christ, as the life, bringeth about a recovery out of it.  
4. Show how the soul is to be exercised, that it may obtain a recovery: and  
5. Answer some Questions or Objections.  
As to the first: Believers many times may be so dead, as not only not to see and know, that they have an interest in Christ, and to be uncertain, what to judge of themselves; but also be so carried away with prejudices and mistakes, as that they will judge no otherways of themselves, than that their case is naught; yea and not only will'deny, or miscall the good, that God hath wrought in them by his Spirit; but also reason themselves to be out of the state of grace, and a stranger to faith and to the workings of the Spirit: and hereupon will come to call all delusions, which some time they had felt, and seen in themselves: which is a sad distemper; and which grace in life would free the soul from.  
This proceedeth (which is the second particular) partly from God's hideing of his face, and changing his dispensations, about them, and compassing them with clouds; and partly from themselves, and their own mistakes: as  
1. Judging their state, not by the unchangeable rule of truth; but by the outward dispensations of God, which change upon the best.  
2. Judging their state by the observable measure of grace within them; and so concludeing their state bad, because they observe corruption prevailing now and then, and grace decaying; and they perceive no victory over temptations, nor growth in grace, etc.  
3. Judging also their state by others; and so they suppose that they cannot be believers, because they are so unlike to others, whom they judge true believers. This is also to judge by a wrong rule.  
4. Judging themselves by themselves, that is, because they look so unlike to what sometimes they were themselves, they conclude, that their state cannot be good, which is also a wrong rule to judge their State by.  
5. Beginning to try and examine their ●…ase and State, and coming ●…o no close or issue, so that when they have done, they are as uncleare and uncertain, what to judge of themselves, as when they began: or  
6. Taking little or no pains to try themselves seriously, as in the sight of God, but resting satisfied with a superficial trial, which can come to no good issue.  
7. Trying and examineing, but, through the slight of Satan, and because pitching upon wrong marks, coming to no good issue, but condemning themselves without ground.  
8. There is another thing which occasioneth this misjudging, to wit, the want of distinctness and clearness in covenanting with Christ, and the ignorance of the nature of true saving faith.  
As to the third particular. How Chest is Life to the believer in this case.  
I Answer. Christ manifesteth himself to be life to the soul, in this case.  
1. By sending the Spirit of life, that Enlighteneth, Informeth, Persuadeth▪ and Sealeth.  
2. By actuating grace so in the soul, that it manifesteth itself, and evidenceth itself to be there, as the heat and burning of a fire will discover itself, without other toakens.  
The fourth particular, to wit, how the soul should be exercised, or how it should employ Christ, for an outgate out of this, hath been abundantly cleared above, where we showed, that believers in this case would  
1. Be frequent in griping Christ, and closeing with Him as their alsufficient Mediator: and faith thus frequently acting on Him, may discover itself at length.  
2. Look to Christ, that hath eye salve, and is given for a witness.  
3. Keep grips fast of Him, though they be in the dark, and walk on, gripping to Him.  
4. Keep love towards Him and his working, and in exercise.  
5. Beg of Him to clear up their state by his Spirit, explaining the true marks of grace, and discovering the working of grace in the soul.  
But it will be said (and so I come to the last particular) what if after all this, I remain as formerly, as unable to judge aright of my State, as ever?  
Ans. Yet, thou would continue griping Christ, loving Him, looking to Him, casting a lost dead soul, with all thy wants, upon Him, and mind this as thy constant work. Yea, thou would labour to be growing in these direct acts of faith: and learn to submit to God herein, knowing that those reflect acts are not absolutely necessary, and that thou should think it much, if He bring thee to heaven at length, though covered with a cloud, all thy days.  

Obj. 2. But others get much more clearness?  
Ans. I grant that: yet know, that every one getteth not clearness, and such as have it, have it not in the same measure▪ and must God give thee as much as He giveth to any other? What if thou could not make ●…hat use of it, that others do, but wax proud thereby, and forget thyself? Therefore, it will be best to give God liberty to dispense his favours, as He will, and that thou be about ●…hy commanded duty, the exercise of faith, Love, Fear, Patience, etc.   

Obj. 3▪ But if at any time I goat a sight of my case, it would be some peace and satisfaction ●…o me?  
Ans. I grant that, & what knowest thou, but ●…hou may also get that favour ere thou die? Why ●…hen will thou not wait his leisure?   

Obj. 4. But the want of it in the mean time maketh me go heartlesly and discouragedly about ●…ommanded duties, and maketh that I cannot apply things distinctly to myself.  
Ans. Yet the word of command is the same, ●…he offer is the same, and the encouragement is the same: why then should not thou be going ●…on, leaning to Christ in the wilderness, even though thou want that comfortable sight?   

Obj. 5. But it is one thing to want a clear ●…ight of my state; it is another thing to judge myself, to be yet in the state of nature: and this is my case.  
Ans. I grant this is the worst of the two: yet, ●…hat if thou misjudge thyself without ground▪ ●…hould thou not suffer for thine own folly? and ●…hom can thou blame but thyself? And if thou judge so, thou cannot but know▪ that it is thy duty to do the thing, that thou supposeth is not yet done, that is, run away to Christ for life and salvation, and rest on Him, and abide there: and if this were frequently renewed, the grounds of thy former mistake might be easily removed.  
Yet further, I would add those few things.  
1. Take no pleasure in debateing against your own soul; for that is but to serve Satan's design.  
2. Be not too rash or ready to drink-in prejudices against the work of God, in your own souls: for that is to collude with Satan against yourselves.  
3. Make much of any little light He is pleased to give, were it but of one mark; and be not ill to please: for one scriptural mark, as love to the brethren, may sufficiently evidence the thing.  
4. See how thy soul would like the condition of such as are carnal, profane, careless in the matters of God: and if thy soul doth really abhor that, and thou would not upon any account choose to be in such a case, thou may gather something from that, to thy comfort: But enough of this case here?    

CHAP. XXVI. How is Christ as the Life to be applied by a soul, that misseth God's favour and countenance.  
THe sixth case, that we ●…hall speak a little to, is a deadness, occasioned by the Lord's hideing of himself, who is their Life▪ and the fountain of life, Psal. 36: 9 and whose loving kindn●…sse is better than life▪ Psal. 63: 3. and in whose favour is their life, Psal ●…0: 5. A case▪ which the frequent complaints of the Saints manifest to be rife enough. Concearning which we shall,  
1. Show some of the consequences of the Lord's hideing of his face, whereby the soul●… case will appear.  
2. Show the reasons of this dispensation.  
3. Show how Christ is life to the soul in this case, and  
4. Point- out the souls duty; or how he is to make use of Christ, for a recovery.  
As to the first, we may take notice of those particulars,  
1. They complain of God's hideing of himself▪ and forsaking them, Psal. 22: 1. my God my God, why hast thou forsaken me! and Psal. 13: 3. how long wilt thou forsake me? etc.  
2. They cry out for a blaink of his face, and get i●… not: for He hath withdrawn himself, Ps●… 〈◊〉 1. How long wilt thou hide thy face from me. Heman Psal. 88 cried out night and day, but yet God's face was hid verse▪ 1: 9, 14. The spouse seeketh long, Cant. 5. See Ps. 22: 1, 2.  
3. They are looking for an outgate▪ but get none? And hope deferred maketh their heart sick, Prov. 13: 12.  
4. They are in the dark, and cannot tell, why the Lord dispenseth so toward them: why (said Heman Psal. 88: 14▪) castest thou off my soul? why ●…idest thou thy face from me? They cannot understand wherefore it is. So job cried out, Show me wherefore thou contendest with me, job 10: 2.  
5. They may also be walking, in the mean while, without light or counsel, so as they shall not 〈◊〉 what to do. How long shall I take counsel in my soul, Psal. 13: 2.  
6. Moreover▪ they may have their heart filled with sorrow; as we see, Psal. 13: 2. having sorrow in my heart, said David. He also sayeth, Ps. 38. that his sorrow was continually before him, vers. 17. and Psal. 116: 3. I found trouble and sorrow.  
7. They may be so, as that the sweet experiences of others, may yield them no supply of comfort, at present, Psal. 22: 4, 5, 6. Our Fathers trusted in the (said David) and thou didst deliver them. They cried unto thee, and were delivered; they trusted in thee, and were not confounded. But that gave him no present ease or comfort: for immediately he addeth, vers. 6. But I am a worm and no man; a reproach of men▪ etc.  
8. Yea all their own former experiences may yield them little solace: as we see in the same place, Psal. 22: 9, 10. compared with, vers. 14: 15. Thou art He (says he vers. 9) that took me out of the womb, etc. and yet he complains, vers. 14. that he was poured out like water, and his bones out of joint, that his heart was melted in the midst of his bowels▪ etc.  
9 They may be brought near to a giving over all in despondency; and be brought, in their sense, to the very dust of death▪ Psal 22: 16.  
If it be enquired, why the Lord dispenseth so with his own people?  
We answer, (and this is the Second particular) That he doth it for holy and wise reasons, whereof we may name a few, as  
1. To punish their carelessness and negligence▪ as we see he did with the Spouse, Cant. ●….  
2. To chastise them for their ill improving of his favour▪ and kindeness●…, when they had 〈◊〉 as the same passage evidenceth.  
3. To check them for their security and carnal confidence, as He did David Psal. 30: 6, 7. when he said his mountain stood strong, and he should never be moved: then did the Lord hide his face, and he was troubled.  
4. To try if their obedience to his commands be pure and conscientious, and not in a sort mercenary, because of his lifting- up upon them the light of his countenance: and to see if conscience to a command driveth them to duty, when they are in the dark, and have no encouragement.  
5. To put the graces of the Spirit to trial, and to exercise; as their Faith, Patience, Hope, Love etc. Psal. 13: 5, 6. & 22: 24.  
6. To awaken them from their security, and to set them to a more diligent following of duty: as we see in the Spouse, Cant. 5.  
7. To sharpen their desire and hunger after Him, as that same instance cleareth.  
Even in such a case as this, Christ is life to the soul, (which is the Third particular)  
1. By taking away the sinful causes of such a distance, having laid down his life, and shed his blood: for the remission of their sins; so that such a dispensation is not flowing from pure wrath; but is rather an act of mercy and love.  
2. By advocating the poor ●…ans cause in heaven, where he His making Intercession for His own, and thereby obtaining a delivery from that condition, in God's own time, even the shining again of his countenance upon them.  
3. By keeping life in, as to habitual grace, and by breathing thereupon; so that it becometh lively and operative, even in such a winter day.  
4. By supporting the soul under that dispensation, and keeping it from fainting, through the secret influences of grace, which He conveyeth into the soul: as He did to the poor woman of Canaan, Math. 15.  
5. By setting the soul a work, to use such means, as God hath appointed for a recovery; as to cry, to plead, to long, to wait, etc. Their heart shall live that seek Him.  
6. By teaching the soul to submit to, and acquiesce in what God doth; acknowledging his Righteousness, Greatness and Sovereignty: and this quietness of heart is its life.  
7. By keeping the heart fast to the covenant of grace. So that, whatever come they will never quite that bargan, but they will trust in Him, though He should kill them; and they will adhere to the covenant of grace, though they should be dragged through hell.  
8. At length, when He seeth it fit and convenient, He quickeneth, by drawing-by the veil, and filling the soul with joy, in the light of God's countenance; and causing it to sing, as having the heart lifted up in the ways of the Lord.  
As to the last particular, concearning the duty of a soul in such a case, we say  
1. He would humble himself under this dispensation, knowing that it is the great God with whom he hath to do; and that there is no contending with Him: and that all flesh should stoop before Him.  
2. He would justify God in all that He doth; and say with David Psal. 22: 3. But thou art holy, O thou that inhabitest the praises of Israel.  
3. He would look upon himself as unworthy of the least favour of that kind: I am a worm (said David Psal. 22: 6.) and no man.  
4. He would search-out his provocations, and run away to the fountain, the blood of Christ; that these may be purged away. and his conscience sprinkled from dead works, and his soul washen in the fountain opened to the house of David, for sin and for uncleanness.  
5. He must also employ Christ, to discover to him more and more of his guiltiness, whereby he had grieved the Spirit of God; and as sins are discovered to him, he would repent of them, and run away with them to the blood, that cleanseth from all sin. This was Elihu's advice to job▪ Cap. 34: vers. 31, 32. Surely it is meet to be said unto God, I have borne chastisement, I will not offend. That which I see not, teach thou me, is I have done iniquity, I will do no more.  
6. He would grip to Christ in the Covenant, and ●…est there, with joy and satisfaction: he would hold that fast, that he may ride out the storm in a dark night. Though he make not mine house to grow▪ said David, 2 Sam. 23: vers. 5. Yet this was all his salvation and all his desire, that He had made with him an everlasting Covenant, ordered in all things and sure. The Spouse took this course, when he could not get a sight of Him, whom her soul loved, Cant. 6: vers. 3. and asserted her interest in Him. I am my beloved's, and my beloved is mine.  
7. He would be entertaining high, and loving thoughts of God, commending Him highly, let His dispensations be what they will. So did the Spouse, Cant. 5: vers. 10- 16.  
8. He would earnestly seek after Him. The Spouse did so, Cant. 5: vers. 6. the discouragement she met with at the hands of the watch men did not put her off her pursuit, Vers. 7. but she continued, yea was sick of love, Vers. 8. and here looks had a prevailing power with him, as we see, Cant. 6: vers. 5. where the Bridegroom uttered that most astonishing word, Turn away thine eyes from me, for they have overcome me.  
9 This new manifestation, which he is seeking for, must be expected in and through Jesus, who is the true Tabernacle, and he who was represented by the Mercy- seat. He is the only trysting place, in Him alone will the Father be seen  
10 He would also look to Him, for strength and support, in the mean time; and for grace, that he may be keeped from fainting, and may be helped to wait, till he come, who knoweth the fittest season, wherein to appear.  
But, it will be said, what if after all this, we get no outgate, but He hideth his face still from us?  
I answer, Such would know, that life is one thing, and comfort is another thing: Grace is one thing, and warm blainks of God's face is another. The one is necessary to the very being of a Christian, the other not; but only necessary to his comfortable being: and therefore they should be content, if God give them grace, though they ●…isse comfort for a time.  
2. They would lairne to commit that matter to Christ, who knoweth how to give that which is good, and what is best for them.  
3. They would be hanging on Him, for strength for duty; and, in his strength, setting about every commanded duty, and be exercising, Faith, Love, Patience, Hope, Desire, etc.  
4. Let the well ordered covenant be all their salvation, and all their desire; and though they should not get a comfortable blaink of God's face, so long as they were here, yet holding fast this covenant they should at length be saved souls, and what would they have more? and when they get this, what will they miss?   

CHAP. XXVII. How shall one make use of Christ, as the Life, when wreastling with an angry God because of sin?  
THat we may give some satisfaction to this question, we shall  
1. Show what are the ingredients in this case, or what useth to concur in this distemper.  
2. Show some reasons, why the Lord is pleased to dispense thus with his people.  
3. Show how Christ is life to the soul in this case.  
4. Show the believers duty for a recovery: and  
5. Add a word or two of caution.  
As to the first. There may be those parts of, or 〈◊〉 in this distemper▪  
1. God presenting their sins unto their vieu, so as they shall cry out, our sin is ever before us, Psal. 51: 3. and say, as it is Psal. 90: 8. Thou hast set our iniquities before thee, our secret sins in the light of thy countenance: and so cause them see the Lord contending for sin, as the Church did, Esai. 59: we roar all like bears, and mourn sore like doves: we look for judgement but there is none, for salvation but it is far off from us: for our transgressions are multiplied before thee, and our sins testify against us: for our transgressions are with us; and as for our iniquities, we know them, etc.  
2. Yea, God may bring upon them the iniquities of their youth, as job speaketh Cap. 13: 26. and so bring upon them, or suffer conscience to charge them with their old sins, formerly repent of and pardoned. And this is more terrible: David is made to remember his original sin, Psal. 51.  
3. And, as job speaketh, Cap. 15: 17. God may seem to be sealing up all their sins in a bag, that none of them may be lost or fall by, without being taken notice of; and, as it were, be gathering them together in a heap.  
4. He may pursue sore with signs of wrath & displeasure, because of those sins, as we see in David Psal. 4. & 38. & 51. and in several others of his people, chastened of the Lord because of their transgressions; whereof there are many instances in scripture.  
5. Yea, and that for a considerable time together, and cause them cry out, with David Psal. 4: 3.— but thou O Lord how long!  
6. And that not only with outward, but also with inward plagues. And strokes, as David's case cleareth, in the forecited Psalms.  
7. Yea and not only themselves, but even their posterity: as David's child was smitten with death, and the posterity of Manasses, who found mercy himself, 2 Chron. 33: 13. was carried into captivity for his sin, 2 Kings 23: 26, 27.  
8. Further, the Lord may deprive them of all their former joy and comfort, which made David cry out Psal. 51: 12. restore unto me the joy of thy salvation, and grant me thy free Spirit.  
9 And, which is yet more terrible, write their sin upon their judgement, as when He caused the sword and whoredom follow David's house.  
10. And finally, He may cause them fear utter offcasting as Psal. 51: 11. cast me not away (said he) from thy presence.  
And this the Lord thinketh good to do (that we may speak a word to the second particular) for those and the like reasons.  
1. To discover to them, and to all the world, how Just, Holy, and Righteous a God He is, that cannot approve of or bear with sin, even in his own children.  
2. To make all fear and tremble before this great and holy God, who is terrible in his judgements, even when they come from a Father's hand, that is not pursueing in pure anger and wrath, but chastening in love: Sure, all must think, that his dispensations with the wicked will be much more fearful and horrible, seeing they are not yet reconciled unto Him through the blood of ●…esus.  
3. To press Believers more earnestly in to Christ, that they may get a new extract of their pardon▪ and their souls washen in the blood of jesus.  
4. To teach them to walk more circumspectly afterward, and to guaird more watchfully against Satan's temptations, and to employ Christ more as their Strength, Light and Guide.  
5. To cause them see their great obligation to Jesus Christ, for delivering them from that state of wrath, wherein they were by nature, as well as others, and would have lyen-in to all eternity, had not He redeemed them.  
6. To exercise their Faith, Patience and Hope; to see if in hope, they will believe against hope, and lay hold on the strength of the Lord, that they may make peace with him, Esai. 27: 5.  
7. To give a fresh proof of his wonderful Mercy, Grace, Love, and Compassion, upholding the soul, in the mean time, & at length, pardoning them, and speaking peace to their souls through the blood of Jesus.  
But as to the third particular. We may look on Christ, as the Life to the soul in this case, upon those accounts.  
1. He hath satisfied justice, and so hath borne the pure wrath of God due for their sins: He hath trodden the winepress alone, Esai. 63: 3. He was wounded for our transgressions, and bruised for our sins, Esai. 53: 5, 10. And therefore they drink not of this cup, which would make them drunk, and to stagger, and fall, and never rise again.  
2. Yea, He hath procured, that mercy and love shall accompany all those sharp dispensations; and that they shall flow from mercy; yea and that they shall be as a covenanted blessing, promised in he covenant, Psal. 89: 30, 31, 32, 33.  
3. And sometimes He is pleased to let them see this clear difference betwixt the strokes they lie under, and the judgements of pure wrath, which attend the wicked: and this supporteth the soul: for than he seeth, that those dispensations, how sharp so ever they be, shall work together for good to him, and come from the hand of a gracious and loving Father, reconciled in the blood of Christ.  
4. He is a Prince exalted to give repentance and remission of sins to Israel, Act. 5: 31. Yea, He hath procured such a clause in the covenant, which is well ordered in all things and sure, that upon their renewing of faith and repentance, their after sin shall be pardoned; and besides the promises of faith and repentance, in the covenant, His being ●… Prince exalted to give both, giveth assurance o●… their receiving of both.  
5. He cleareth to them their interest in the Covenant, and their right to the promises of the Covenant; and through their closeing with Christ▪ b●… faith, He raiseth up their heart in hope, & cause●… them to expect an outgate, even remission of the●… sins, and turning a way of the displeasure in due tim●… through Him: and this is a great part of their life▪  
6. Being the author and finisher of faith, 〈◊〉 ●… Prince to give repentance, He, by His Spirit, worketh up the soul to a renewing of its grips o●… Himself, by faith, and to a ●…uning to the death and blood of Christ for pardon, and washing: and worketh godly sorrow in the heart; whereupon followeth Pardon, according to the gospel constitution, though the believer as yet perceiveth it not. And sin being pardoned before God, conform to the tenor of the covenant of grace, the man is a living man, whatever fears of death, he may be keeped under for a time.  
7. He helpeth also the soul to a justifying of God, and to a holy submissive frame of Spirit, under that dispensation; so that they are willing to bear the indignation of the Lord, because they have sinned against Him, Micah. 7: 9 and to wait for an outgate in God's own time: and to kiss the rod, and accept of the punishment of their sin.  
8. When He seeth it fit for his own glory, and their advantage, He speaketh peace at length to the soul, and sayeth, Son or daughter, be of good cheer, thy sins are forgiven thee. And then is the soul restored to life.  
As to the fourth particular. The soul that is wreastling with an angry God for sin, and would make use of Christ as the life, would do those things,  
1. He would look to Christ, as standing under God's curse in our room, and as satisfying justice for all the elect, and for all their sins.  
2. He would eye the covenant, wherein new pardon is promised, upon the renewing of faith and repentance.  
3. He would eye Christ, as the great Lord dispensator of both Faith and Repentance, and hang on Him for both; and thus believe, that he may believe and repent, or lay his soul open to Him, that He may work in him both Repentance and Faith.  
4. He would flee to the blood of sprinkling, that speaks better things than the blood of Abel, that he may be washen, and sprinkled with hyssop, as David did Psal. 51: 7.  
5. He would eye Christ as a prince, to pardon, and give remission of sins, and as exalted for this end, and would fix his eye upon Him, as now exalted in glory for this end.  
6. He would close with Christ of new, as his only alsufficient mediator; and, having done this, and repent of his sins, whereby God hath been provoked, he would conclude through faith, that a pardon is passed in the court of heaven, conform to the tenor of the gospel, and wait on Christ, until the intimation come.  
As for the cautions, which I promised to speak to, in the last place, take those few  
1. Do not conclude there is no pardon, because there is no intimation thereof made to thy soul, as yet. According to the dispensation of grace, condescended upon in the gospel, pardon is had immediately upon a souls believing and repenting; But the intimation, sense, and feeling of pardon, is a distinct thing, and may, for several ends, be long ●…eeped-up from the soul; Sure, they go not always together.  
2. Do not conclude, there is no pardon, because the road, that was inflicted for sin, is not as yet taken off▪ God pardoned David's sin, and did intimate the same to Him by Nathan, and yet the sword did not depart from his house till he died: God can forgive, and yet take vengeance on their in ven●…ions, Psal. 99▪ 8.  
3. Do not upon this ground, question God's Faithfulness, or conclude that God's covenant doth not stand fast: He is the same, and the covenant abideth fast and firm; but the change is in thee.  
4. Do not think, that because thou hast once received Christ, that therefore, without any new act of faith on Him, or of repentance towards God, thou should immediately be pardoned of thy sins, as soon as they are committed: for the gospel method must be followed, and it should satisfy us.   

CHAP. XXVIII. No man cometh to the Father but by me.  
THis being added for further confirmation of what was formerly said, will point out unto us several necessary truths: as  
First. That it is most necessary, to be sound and clear in this fundamental point, of coming to God, only in and through Christ: for  
1. It is the whole marrow of the gospel.  
2. It is the ●…inge of all our salvation, Christ is the chief cornerstone, Esa. 28: 16. 1 Pet. 1: 5, 6. and  
3. The only ground of all our solid and true peace and comfort.  
4. An error, or a mistake here, is most dangerous, hazarding, if not ruineing, all  
5. Satan endeavours mainly against this, raiseth up heresies, errors and false opinions, and prompteth some to vent perplexing doubts and objections, & all to darken this cardinal point▪ So doth he muster up all his temptations for this end, at length, to keep poor souls from acquaintance with this way, and from making use of it, or entering into it.  
6. Our corrupt hearts are most averse from it, and will close with any way, how troublesome, how expensive and costly so ever it may seem to be, rather than with this.  
7. There are a multitude of false ways, as we did show above.  
All which clear up this necessity, and should teach us to be very diligent to win to acquaintance with it▪ and to make sure that we are in it, and to hold it fast, and to keep it pure in our practice, without mixing any thing with it, or corrupting of it.  
Secondly. That it is no small difficulty to get this truth believed and practised, that through Christ alone we come to the Father. Therefore is the same thing asserted and inculcated again, upon the matter: for  
1. Nature will not teach this way, it is far above nature.  
2. Yea our natural inclination is much against it, opposing it, and fight against it.  
3. This way is altogether contrary to that high esteem, which naturally all of us have of ourselves.  
4. And is opposite to that pride of heart, which naturally we are subject to.  
5. Yea there is nothing in us by nature, that will willingly comply with this way: but, on the contrary, all is opposite thereunto.  
6. And therefore it is the Christians first lesson, to deny himself.  
The consideration of which should humble us, and make us very jealous of our own hearts and inclinations, and of all those courses, which they are inclineable to, and bend upon. And it should put us to try, if ever we have overcome this difficulty: and have now all our hopes and comforts founded on Him, and on nothing else: and are up or down in our peace and joy, according as we win in to Him, or are shut out from Him: and in all our approaches to God, upon whatsoever account, are leaning to Him and resting on Him alone, expecting access, acceptance, and a hearing, only in Him; and are quieted under all our fears and temptations with this, that Christ is our way to the Father.  
Thirdly. That even believers have need to have this truth inculcated often: for  
1. Satan is busy pulling them off this ground, by all the wiles and temptations he can.  
2. Their own corruption within, and the evil heart of unbelief, is always opposeing this way, and drawing them off it.  
3. Through the slight of Satan, and the power of corruption, they are oftimes declineing from this pure gospel way.  
4. The experience of believers can tell, that when they a●…e at their best, it is a great work and exercise to them, to keep their heart right in this matter.  
5. Is it not too oft seen, that they are under the spiritual plague of formality, which stealeth them off their feet here?  
6. And is it not found oftentimes, that they are too too ready to lean to some thing beside Christ?  
How ought all to be convinced of this, and humbled under the sense of it? And see also how necessary it is to be oft preaching on this subject, and to be oft thinking upon and studying this fundamental truth.  
Fourthly. It should be a strong motive and incitement to us to make use of Christ, as the way to the Father, That no man cometh to the Father but by Him: for this may be looked upon as an argument, enforcing their usemaking of Him, as the way.  
Fiftly. It discovereth the ground of that truth, that there are but few that are saved; for none cometh to the Father but by Him: few, in respect of the whole world, once hear of Him▪ and of such as hear of Him, few have the true way of employing and applying him, as the way to the Father, cleared up unto them: and again▪ of such as have the truth, as it is in Jesus, preached unto them, O how few go to Him, and make use of Him according to the truth, and believe and practise the truth▪  
Sixtly. That in and through Christ alone we must come.  
1. To the Knowledge of the Father: for no man knoweth the Father but the son: and He alone, who came out of the bosom of the Father, revealeth Him.  
2. To the Favour and Friendship of the Father: for He alone is our pea●…e, and in Him alone is the Father well pleased.  
4. To the Kingdom of the Father here: for He only is the door, john. 10. and by his Spirit are we effectually called.  
4. To the Kingdom of the Father above: for He alone hath opened that door, and is entered into the holiest of all, as our forerunner, and is gone to prepare a place for us.  
5. Through Him alone must we address ourselves to the Father, in our supplications, john. 16: 23. Revel. 8: 3. in our thanksgivings Rom. 1: 8▪ Col. 3: 17. and praise Heb. 13: 15. Ephes. 3: 21.  
6. Through Him alone have we access, and an open door to the Father, Ephes. 2: 18. & 3: 21. Heb. 4: 16.  
I shall only speak to one case here. viz.   

CHAP. XXIX. How should we make use of Christ, in going to the Father, in prayer and other pieces of worship?  
IN short, for answering of this question, I shall lay down those particulars.  
1. There would be a lively sense of the infinite distance, that is betwixt the great God, and us finite creatures; and yet more betwixt the holy God and us sinful wreatches.  
2. There would be an eyeing of Christ, as the great peacemaker through his death and merits, having satisfied justice, and reconciled sinners unto God; that so we may look on God now, no more as an enemy, but as reconciled in Jesus.  
3. There would be, sometimes at least, a more formal, and explicit actual closeing with Christ as ours, when we are going about such duties: and always an implicit and virtual imbraceing of Him as our mediator; or an habitual hanging upon Him, and leaning to Him as our mediator, and Peacemaker.  
4. There would be an eyeing of Him as our great Highpriest, now living for ever to make intercession for us, and to keep the door of heaven open to us: upon which account the Apostle presseth the Hebreewes to come boldly to the throne of grace, Heb. 4: 14, 16. See also Heb. 7: 24, 25.  
5. There would be a griping to Him, even in reference to that particular act of worship, and a laying hold upon Him, to speak so, as our Master usher, to bring us by the hand in to the Father, as conscious of our own unworthiness.  
6. There would be a confident leaning to Him, in our approaching; and so we would approachin Him, without fear or diffidence. And that notwithstanding that we find not our souls in such a good frame▪ as we would wish, yea and guilt looking us in the face.  
7. Thus would we roll all the difficulties, that come in our way, and all the discouragements, which we meet with, on Him, that He may take away the one and the other, and help us over the one and the other.  
8. As we would take an answer to all objections from Him alone, and put Him to remove all scruples, and difficulties, and strengthen ourselves against all impediments and discouragments, alone, in and through Him, so there would be the bringing of all our positive encouragements from Him alone, and all our hopes of coming speed with the Father should be grounded upon Him.  
9 We would ex●…pect all our welcome and acceptance with the Father, only in & through Christ, and expect nothing for any thing in ourselves, not for our graces, good frame, preparation, or any thing of that kind. So we would not found our acceptance, nor our peace and satisfaction, on ourselves, nor on any thing we have, or do; nor would we conclude our exclusion or want of acceptance, because we do not apprehend our frame so good as it ought to be; so we should not found our acceptance on our right performance of duties, for that is not Christ.  
10. We would quiet ourselves on Him alone, in all our approaches, whatever liveliness we find, or miss in the duty▪ we are too much tickled and fain, when duties go well with us, and troubled upon the other hand, when it is not so; and the ground of all this, is, because we lean too much to our own duties, and do not quiet ourselus on Him alone: and hence itis, that we are oft quieted when we get the duty done and put by, though we have not met with Him there, nor goten use made of Him, as was necessary. All our comfort, peace and quiet would be founded on Him alone.  
11. We would look to Him for the removal of all the discouragments, that Satan casts in our way, while we are about this or that piece of worship, to put us back, or to cause us advance slowly and faintingly: and, casting them all on Him, go forward in our duty.  
12. We would look for all our returns and answers only in and through Him, and lay all the weight of our hopes and expectation of a good answer only on Him, ●… john. 5: 13, 14, 15.  
For Caution I would add a word or two.  
1. I do not think, that the believer can explicitly and distinctly act all these things, when ever he is going to God; or can distinctly perceive all these several acts: nor have I specified them, and particularly mentioned then thus, for this end; but to show at some length, how Christ is to be employed in those acts of worship, which we are called to perform; and that because, we ofttimes think the simple nameing of Him, and ask of things for His sake, is sufficient, though our hearts lean more to some other thing, than to Him: and the conscientious christian will find his soul, when he is rightly going about the duties of worship, looking towards Christ thus, sometimes more distinctly and explicitly as to one particular, & sometimes more as to another.  
2. Though the believer cannot distinctly act saith on Christ, all these ways, when he is going about commanded duties of worship; yet he would be sure to have his heart going out after Christ, as the only ground of his approaching to, and acceptance with, and of being heard by the Father; and to have his heart in such an habitual frame of resting on Christ, that really there may be a relying upon Him, all these ways, though not distinctly discerned.  
3. Sometimes the believer will be called to be more distinct and explicit in looking to, and resting upon Christ, as to one particular, and sometimes more as to another: when Satan is dissuading him to go to God, because He is an infinite holy one, and he himself is but a sinner: then he is called to act faith on Christ as the mediator, making reconciliation betwixt God and sinners: and when Satan is dissuading from approaching to God, because of their want of an interest in God▪ then should they act faith on Christ, and embrace him, according to the gospel, and rest there, and so approach. And when Satan casts up his unworthiness and former sins, to keep him aback, or to discourage him, than he is called to lay hold on Christ, as the great Highpriest, and advocate; and, casting that discouragement on Him, to go forward. So likewise when Satan is discourageing him in his duty, by bringing before him his sins, he should take this course. And when, because of his sinful way of worshipping God and calling upon him, and other things, he is made to fear, that all is in vain, that neither God regairdeth him, nor his service, and that he shall not come speed, than should he cast all the burden of his acceptance, and of obtaining what he asketh and desireth, on Christ, and quiet himself there: and so as to the rest: and hence appeareth the usefulness of our branching-out of this matter.  
4. In all this, there must be an acting in the strength of Jesus: a looking to Christ and resting upon Christ, according to the present case and necessity, in Christ; that is, by his strength and grace communicated to us by his Spirit. Then do we worship God in the Spirit, and in the newness of the Spirit, when all is done in the matter of worship; in and through Jesus.   
FINIS.   

A Table of the Chapters.  
Chap. ay, 
THe Introduction, with some general Observations from the cohesion. Pag. 1  Chap. II. 
Of the Words themselves in general. 16  Chap. III. 
How Christ is the Way in general. 20  Chap. FOUR 
How Christ is made use of, for justification. 41  Chap. V. 
How Christ is the Way, for sanctification, in general. 72  Chap. VI 
How Christis to be made use of, for killing and crucifying the old man of sin. 100  Chap. VII. 
How Christ is to be made use of, for growth in grace. 1●…3  Chap. VIII. 
How Christ is to be made use of, for taking away the guilt of our daily outbreakings. 155  Chap. IX. 
How Christ is to be made use of, for cleansing us from our daily spots. 179  Chap. X. 
Some generals clearing how Christ is the Truth. 200  Chap. XI. 
More particularly, in what respects Christ is called the Truth. 206  Chap. XII. 
Some general Uses from this useful truth, that Christ is the Truth. 209  Chap. XIII. 
How Christ is to be made use of, as the Truth, for growth in knowledge. 226  Chap. XIIII. 
How Christ is to be made use of, as the Truth, for comfort, when truth is oppressed and born down. 238  Chap. XV. 
How Christ is to be made use of, for steadfastness▪ in a time when truth is oppressed and born down. 245  Chap. XVI. 
How Christ is to be made use of, as the Truth when the Spirit o●… error prevaileth. 25●…  Chap. XVII. 
How Christ is to be made use of, as the Truth for getting of our case and condition cleared up. 268  Chap. XVIII. 
How Christ is to be made use of, as the Truth, to the end we may get right and suitable thoughts of God. 277  Chap. XIX. 
How Christ is the Life. 284  Chap. XX. 
Some general Uses of Christ's being the Life. 299  Chap. XXI. 
How Christ is to be made use of, as the Life, when we are so sitten-up in the ways of God▪ that we can do nothing. 314  Chap. XXII. 
How Christ is to be made use of, as the Life, when we are heartless and fainting through discouragments, 322  Chap. XXIII. 
How Christ is to be made use of, as the Life, when we are dead, as to doing of duties. 334  Chap. XXIIII. 
How Christ is to be made use of, as the Life, when we are under the prevailing power of unbeleef and infidelity. 344  Chap. XXV. 
How Christ is to be made use of, as the Life, when we cannot know▪ what to judge of our case. 353  Chap. XXVI. 
How Christ is to be made use of, as the Life, by one that misseth God's favour▪ 358  Chap. XXVII. 
How Christ is to be made use of, as the Life, when we have to do with an angry God because of sin▪ 365  Chap. XXVIII. 
The last words of the Text explained, with some Observations thence deduced. 372  Chap. XXIX. 
How Christ is to be made use of, in going to the Father, in prayer, and other acts of Worship. 376   
FINIS.