Victory over Death.  
A SERMON PREACHED At Steeple-Ashton in the County of Wilts, upon the 27th day of April, 1676. AT THE FUNERAL OF Mr. Peter adam's, The late Reverend, Pious, and Industrious Minister of God's Word there. Sometime Fellow of Vniversity-Colledge in Oxford.  
By Paul Latham, P. S. and V W.  Rom. 8.37. 
In all these things we are more than Conquerors, through him that loved us.  
London, Printed by H. C. for Edward Gellibrand, at the Golden Ball in St. Pauls-Church-Yard, 1676.   

To my worthy and much respected Friend, Mrs. Margaret adam's, the sorrowful Relict of the deceased: And to the rest of his near and dear Relations.  
My Dear Friends,  
VIctory over death, as it was one of the blessed fruits of our Saviour's death and resurrection, and is one of the glorious privileges of those that believe in him; so if it had been represented unto you by the hand of that happy Comprehensor, who now triumpheth in the accomplishment of it, might have appeared like Apelles his Picture drawn by his own hand, or like Caesar's Conquests by himself recorded in his own Commentaries.  
But that the Discourse upon it fell into an hand so unsuitable to the subject, the misfortune is imputable to the charity of him that made his survey of the person with the charitable eye of a Friend, and committed a matter of such weight, like a beautiful Face to a sorry Limner, or a rare Achievement to an unskilful Herald, only because he had a kindness for him.  
That the representation of this Victory appeareth without the Walls, where it was once divulged, stands charged upon your candour, that entertained this sudden production with more friendliness than the Parent had for it.  
I shall not mention either the shortness of the time allotted for the composure, or the intervening occasions that disturbed it; nor yet the little leisure I had for reviewing and transcribing the Notes; but leave it to the courteous interpretation of those, that by knowing how to do far better, do know also how to bear with the imperfections of others.  
For your own parts, I look upon your request for making this public, as the desire of true Friends to retain the Picture of a deceased Brother, when the Prototype is removed from them: Or like the ambition of the primitive Christians, to preserve the memory of the Martyrs and Confessors, that were gone before them, and had taken heaven by violence, Mat. 11.12.  
He hath run his part of the Christian Race, and hath delivered the Lamp to us that are left. God grant that we may not be slothful, but followers of him, and of all others, who through faith and patience do inherit the promises, Heb. 6.12.  
Though I know you have other and greater matters to draw you to hasten homeward, yet I presume this will make an addition to the rest, that you may be joined to our good Friend that sleepeth, and to the rest of that general Assembly, and Church of the Firstborn that are written in Heaven, even to the Spirits of just men made perfect, Heb. 12.23.  
I doubt not, but you have those comforts from Gods good Spirit, that will support you under so great a loss: And that this small memorial of our Reverend Friend may be a mean to stir up you, and his late Parishioners, and all others that may cast their eyes upon these lines, to fight the good fight of Faith, that they may attain victory in the great conflict, and finally attain everlasting life, is the hearty Prayer of  
Your sympathising Friend and unworthy Brother, Paul Latham. Warmister, May 22, 1676.   

Victory over Death. A SERMON ON 1 CORINTH. XV. 57 But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.  
IF the Interment of a good Christian afford matter of solemn thoughts to that Minister, who seriously considers such men to be as the Grape-gleaning of the Vintage, Mic. 7.1. If the parting with a dear and intimate Friend, be tedious to him that considers such an one to be more precious than the Gold of Ophir. If the translation of a dear Brother, and faithful Labourer, from serving God in his Church on earth, to attending on him, and enjoying him in heaven, do cause sad thoughts of heart in him, that duly surveys the greatness of the Harvest. Once more, if the removal of a Minister, that was in his life time a burning and shining light, be to a considerate Parishioner like the setting of the Sun in the Firmament: Then all these circumstances combined in the sad occasion of this solemn Assembly, may justly render it very mournful to me.  
To whom the greatness of grief might most justly have enjoined silence, had not the earnest request of our Reverend Brother now with God (which had the power of a command upon me) appointed speaking to be my work this day.  
Who if he had also thought fit, to have suggested words for my subject at this time, they might have been like the Mantle of Elijah, attended with some of his Spirit; and thereby, being dead, he would once more have spoken unto you, Heb. 11.4.  
But seeing it was his pleasure to repose that confidence in me, as to leave the choice of a subject to the conduct of my own thoughts, I shall not disappoint his expectation by gratifying my own passion. For then, to express my tender brotherly affection, I might have insisted upon such words as those of David, I am distressed for thee, my Brother Jonathan! very pleasant hast thou been unto me; thy love to me was wonderful, passing the love of women, 2 Sam. 1.26. Or rather, to express a more honourable and reverend affection, more suitable to my juniority in years, and deficiency in attainments, I might have spoken of him, and by a figure to him, in such words as those of the King of Israel to the Prophet, My father, my father, the chariots of Israel, and the horsemen thereof! 2 King. 13.14.  
But instead of humouring myself (which would be a very unsuitable design in him that steps up into the Chair of so worthy and selfdenying a man of God), I shall rather choose to represent unto you, your late Reverend Minister, now dead, in living colours; and in his example and attainments, to set before you at once your duty and happiness in obtaining a glorious and comfortable victory over death. And for this end I have chosen to insist upon this portion of Scripture, Thanks be to God, which hath given us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.  
Which words are the result of the Apostles joyful preapprehending by the eye of Faith, that victory which shall hereafter be completed to Believers over the last great enemy. Ver. 54. He stretcheth forward his head to look unto this. So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. Whereupon he subjoineth a confident challenge to death, or rather, he manfully defieth it, v. 55. O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? Which he further amplifieth, by representing the length and strength of Death's weapons, v. 56. The sting of death is sin, and the strength of sin is the Law. And concludes with this 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, or song of triumph, in the words I have chosen to insist upon; But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.  
Wherein we have this blessed Apostle expressing the courage, and yet the humility of a Christian: His confidence through Faith, and withal the lowly deference that he owns to Almighty God, through our Lord Jesus Christ.  
Or more particularly, we have the true Christians victory over Death:  
First, joyfully reported, 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, a victory to us Christians over Death.  
Secondly, thankfully resented, 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, thanks be to him that giveth us this victory.  
Thirdly, the Author of it acknowledged and magnified, 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, thanks be to God.  
Fourthly, the procuring or meritorious cause of this victory signified, 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, through our Lord Jesus Christ.  
I begin with the joyful report of this victory over Death, 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. This word victory, is a martial term, and intimateth:  
First, that Death is an Enemy. There may be an obliging victory in the friendly contests of Lovers, who endeavour to outstrip each other in offices of kindness and goodwill. But this victory is of another nature; it is like the battle of the warrior, with confused noise, and garments rolled in blood, Isa. 9.5. It is the overcoming of a great and formidable enemy. Such is Death; and that,  
First, To the natural concerns of man. To destroy either the Soul or Body of man, is a work beyond the reach of Death, or any other, on this side that infinite power that made them both. But what Death aims at, is the separating of these old friends, and dissolving the union that was so intimate between them.  
And this is that which Nature so industriously endeavoureth to maintain, that the dissolution must be an act of great violence to it.  
To maintain this union, Nature is not only forward to gratify sense, by eating and drinking what is pleasant and delightful; but sometimes content to affront and annoy it, by submitting to severe abstinences, laborious exercises, ungrateful and nauseous doses of Physic. To maintain this, the most greedy Mammonist will break off some pieces of his adored Idol, employing his bags to compass this greatest purchase of continued health. Yea the industrious Merchant will discharge his Ship of the most promising return, to secure what he accounts the most precious thing aboard, his life. To continue this union, how many are content to undergo the tediousness of a linger distemper, and choose a dying life before death itself? To maintain this, how many do meet force with force, and make their neighbour's life a commutation for their own? Yea for this end, how oft do men expose, and sometimes yield to part with some of the less useful members of their own bodies, to secure, by composition, the health of the whole?  
All which showeth, how earnest desires, and what diligent care Nature hath inspired us with, of maintaining this union of Soul and Body, and perpetuating it as far as may be: And consequently, what an enemy Death is, in attempting the dissolution thereof.  
Secondly, to a man in his moral concerns, Death is an enemy. Even a criminal, while he can escape the arrest of the Law, thinks the best of his own condition; and a sinner, while he can hold up his head in the land of the living, is apt to bless himself in his own sanguine conceits, and to laugh at the doctrine of a Judgement to come.  
But look what an enemy the Malefactor esteems him, that hales him before an earthly Tribunal; or a Debtor him that calls him to account for his scores; such an enemy doth every man that knows himself to have offended, and hath not sued out his pardon; every man that hath run in score to God's justice, and hath not applied himself to that Surety that so graciously offers to pay his debts, esteems Death, that comes to bring him before Almighty God, as a righteous Judge, from whom he may expect a dreadful sentence, and the great Creditor, to whom he knows himself not responsible.  
Secondly, this term Victory, supposeth a conflict. Over a Coward that dares not to fight, or a Town that surrenders upon summons, we are not ordinarily said to obtain a victory. This is properly the effect of struggling and striving for mastery. And with this enemy, Death, every man hath a great conflict. And that both  
First, Eminùs, at a distance, when it threatens us, and thus it begetteth fear; which is a passion that commonly makes impression, especially upon persons of soft and tender natures, not inferior to those that attend the approaches of evil. Especially, O death, how bitter is the remembrance of thee to a man that lives peaceably in the enjoyment of his friends, to him that is quiet and prosperous in his business, and to him that hath an appetite, and can relish his meat? Ecclus. 41.1.  
This is such a conflict as doth quietos sollicitare, disquiets those that are at ease in Zion, and disturbs them that are settled upon their Lees. To think, that this healthy body must e'er long be distempered with diseases; that those pleasures that have been the darlings of their souls, must everlastingly forsake them; that those riches for which they have toiled and laboured, must take themselves wings and for ever fly away; yea, that this stately and beautiful structure of the body must yield to dissolution, and (which is more dreadful than all the rest) that when the dust shall return to the earth, the spirit shall return to God that gave it, Eccl. 12.7. to pass an account of the things which it hath done in the body, and to receive a reward according to them, whether they be good or evil, 2 Cor. 5.10. This is that terror of the Lord, through which so many are all their life time subject to bondage, Heb. 2.16.  
Secondly, and especially, Cominùs, when Death comes to conflict with us hand to hand, when the battle is set in array, and pila minantia pilis. Can thy heart endure, or thy hands be strong in the day when God thus dealeth with thee? Ezek. 22.14.  
When Death is represented in its most ordinary habit, this ghastly Skeleton, armed with Scyth and Spade, beset with the skulls and bones of dead men, as trophies of its multiplied conquests; how dismally doth it look! how far from the aspect of one that designs to court delicate Ladies! yea more like to a Mormo designed to affright mankind.  
But especially when it clothes itself in an habit of extraordinary terror, when it appears in the scarlet cloak of a violent calenture, in the purple robes of a pestilential fever; when it enamels its weapons with the stone, or stains them with the strangury; or when it comes raging in a violent and masterless frenzy. In a word, when it endeavours to appear more formidable than itself, who ever could pretend to such strength as should not grow seeble, or to such hardiness as should not be dismayed before it?  
Its first encounter baffles the appetite, and causeth it to languish, it disturbeth and interrupteh the sleep, weakens the joints, commands a cessation of the usual exercises, spreads paleness and wanness upon the skin.  
Its next proceed subject a staff for the necessary support of the enfeebled structure, call in the Druggist to supply the place of the Cook and Confectioner, cast a man upon his bed as the retirement of his wearied and fainting limbs, and by degrees invade the seats of the vital and animal spirits, afflict the heart with faintings, the head with pains, obstruct the vessels serving for the passage of the blood and spirits, cause the keepers of the house to tremble, the strong men to bow themselves, and those that look out of the windows to grow dim for want of the usual supply of animal spirits. Till at last the cold sweat takes possession of the Hippocratical face, the disturbed soul sits upon the trembling lip, threatening to take its leave of that body, where the enfeebled spirits will not prevail to fetch up that phlegm that lies rattling and betokening suffocation: And then is the dust prepared to return to the dust, whence it was taken. Eccl. 12.7. Then doth man set forward in his joyrney toward his long home, and the mourners go about the streets. Then comes a  to be the modish apparel, and a sepulchre the bed for repose; then gins this proud, aspiring Nimrod to know himself, and to own his original, saying to corruption, thou art my father, and to the worms, ye are my brethren and sisters, Job 17.14. Then he that so bustled above ground, as to think the world too straight for him, is content with six foot of earth for his patrimony. A rare conquest, the fruit of a signal conflict!  
Thirdly, victory as it is here applied, supposeth Death accustomed to conquer. That challenge, or triumphant insultation, v. 55. O death, where is thy victory? seems to suppose Death a tried Champion, fleshed in conquest. And if  
First, we look to its power over man's body, we must confess it an  enemy, and a constant victor, Pallida mors aequo, etc. It is not the robes and palaces of Kings, any more than the rags and cottages of beggars, that exempt them from the arrest of this Sergeant; neither are those so high as to affright death from attempting them, nor these so low that it should scorn to meddle with them. It is not the long delay and forbearance of Death in demanding its due, that can make it forget the debt that is owing by the aged. The short histories of the strangely long lives of those Antedeluvians, that survived the elapsing of several hundreds of years, are  closed up with, and he died, Gen. 5. Nor it is the pitiful cry and puling of the infant in swaddling clothes (that is loath to be snatched away form its beloved breast, and seems to plead that it hath tasted nothing of the pleasures, nor understood the design of its being set ashore upon the earth) that can move this Skeleton, void of bowels, to hold its hand, and to draw back its envenomed darts: But these things are done in the green tree, yea in the tender plant, as well as in the dry, Luke 23.31.  
The wisdom of Solomon, or of the seven Sages of Greece, would in vain have attempted to out-wit Death. The strength of Samson, or of David's worthies, (whose countenances were like the countenances of Lions, 2 Sam. 17.10.) could not daunt this Messenger of God's justice, or prevail in the last conflict with it; but these also yielded to be led in triumph by Death.  
In Golgotha are skulls of all sorts and sizes, as tokens of the impartial conquest that Death is making. There lies Absolom so perfect in beauty, as well as Mephibosheth a deformed Cripple. There lies the wanton and amorous youngster, as well as the old man that doted and leaned on his staff. There lies Goliath a man of overgrown nature, as well as David a ruddy youth. There lies Hector and Achilles so famous for manly valour, as well as Thesites a cowardly and seditious brawler. We may see there, that wise men die, as well as the foolish and brutish persons, Psal. 49.10. There have Xerxes and all his vast army, that threatened to levelly the mountains, and to drink the Ocean's dry, laid down their skulls, and owned deaths sovereignty. Nor could those many million of millions, that like piles of grass have stood before Death, yet blunt the edge of its Scyth, but hitherto it goes on conquering and to conquer.  
Secondly, if we take measure of its strength in arresting the Soul of man, we must needs own it as an absolute victor. It hath a sting put into it by sin, which makes it assault the sinner with deadly strength and violence. Man by his wilful and disingenuous transgression incurred the sentence of the Law, which was Death in the comprehensive notion of it. To bring men to that which the Scripture calls the second death, Rev. 20.6. the former death hath commission. And who is able to withstand a Messenger of the Almighty, or refuse appearance, when he summons us to that tribunal?  
It is not men's hiding their sins like Adam, nor covering them with the fig-leaves of trifling excuses; it is not gilding over the potsherd of abomination with the silver dross of Pharisaical pretences, or outside holiness: It is no palliating colours, no cunning conveyances, no subtle evasions, no critical subterfuges, can deliver a man, in that last encounter, or stand him instead when Death summons him to appear before the judgement seat of Christ, 2 Cor. 5.10. So that in every respect Death pleads custom for the victory it demands over mankind.  
But yet Fourthly, the term here used and applied to a Christian, doth signify, that a good man may obtain a victory over this mortal enemy, in the great conflict, though so accustomed to conquer, and so proud with success. And the joining of the subject we with the adjunct victoriousness, shows, that it is the peculiar privilege of true Christians, so that strangers do not intermeddle with this joy, Prov. 14.10.  
Not that a good man can expect to be exempt from the stroke of Death, nor be secure as to any particular time or season of his life, nor plead exemption from any sort of disease, or circumstance of Death; for what man is he that liveth and shall not see death? shall he deliver his soul from the power of the grave? Psal. 89.48. And it is appointed for men (indefinitely, and without distinction) once to die, Heb. 9.27. This being the passage through which we are to enter into another world. But yet (though it may seem a wonder) even when good men are killed all the day long, they are not only victors, but more than conquerors, Rom. 8.36, 37. And even in dying they are troubled, but not distressed; they are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed, 2 Cor. 4.9. More particularly,  
First, they are victors over the fear of Death. That fear that ariseth from an apprehension of turning their backs upon the fruit of their labours, they overcome by considering, that in heaven they have a better and more enduring substance, Heb. 10.34. Even an inheritance incorruptible, undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for them, 1 Pet. 1.4.  
That which springs from the thoughts of the dissolution of this beautiful and majestic piece of God's workmanship, which hath been so much adored and deified, Phil. 3.19. is overcome by considering, that if their earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, they have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens, 2 Cor. 5.1.  
That which ariseth from the preapprehension of the pains of death, in the violent ejecting of this old inhabitant the Soul, from its beloved mansion the Body, is overcome by considering, both the necessity of this violence, and our being but once molested with it, (which are thoughts that offer themselves to all men's consideration); and withal, that Death is a passage, though a straight one, unto life; a Porter, though a rugged and surly one, that lets us into the Palace of the great King.  
And who will dread that which delivers him from so much sin and misery, and puts him into possession of so great good in another place; though like the Angels to Lot, it use some friendly violence in haling him hence? Gen. 19.16.  
This makes a good man not only to submit to death, and say, the will of the Lord be done, Act. 21.14. and, it is the Lord, let him do what seemeth good in his sight, 1 Sam. 3.18. but further, to be desirous to departed, and to be with Christ, as esteeming that to be far better, Phil. 1.23. yea, to groan, being burdened, desiring to be clothed upon with their house which is from heaven, 2 Cor. 5.2. and to account Death as great gain, Phil. 1.21.  
Secondly, they are conquerors over the pains of Death, which are a great evil, and sorely pressing to humane nature. These a good man overcomes, not so as to be exempt from the same exquisite sense of pain which other persons feel; yea, God is ofttimes pleased, for most wise and gracious ends, to exercise the best of men, under most tedious and exquisite pains: But yet they are conquerors in the conflict, though the encounter be sharp.  
Partly, through that great measure of Patience which God gives them under his hand, which then hath the best opportunity for showing its perfect work, Jam. 1.3. And it is a glorious victory, when patience holds out to the end, and this strong man cannot be brought to bow under the greatest burden of extremity that can be laid upon it; witness the case of Job, whose invincible patience under the greatest sufferings, was to the glory of God, and to his own comfort and ease at present, and future honour.  
Partly, through the strength of that other grace of Faith, whereby they look unto that fatherly hand that lays these things upon them, and thereby are not only drawn to a filial submission (which gives ease to the mind under sufferings) but also take the advantage of deriving comfort from him that smites, and will also heal them. So that when the outward man decayeth, the inward is renewed day by day, 2 Cor. 4.16. And withal, this grace enables a good man to look up into Heaven in the midst of the pains of Death, as St. Stephen did, Act. 7.55. and to see his Saviour there standing ready to receive him to himself in glory. And this makes him, though not to hate his own body, nor simply to desire to be unclothed, yet willing and desirous to be clothed upon, that mortality might be swallowed up of life, 2 Cor. 5.4. and comfortably to bear those difficult methods, whereby the divine wisdom thinks it fit to bring this to pass.  
Thirdly, over the sting of Death. There is a sharp and poisonous thing put into the tail of this Serpent, through our transgressing the Law of God; and this is that which is most dreadful in Death, to a considering person, and that which even a Roman courage could not prevail to master. But a Christian finds that in the word of God, that fortifies him against this also.  
Who shall lay any thing to the charge of Gods elect? it is God that justifieth, who is he that condemneth? it is christ that died, yea rather that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, and maketh intercession for us: who shall separate us from the love of Christ? I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor any other creature shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord, Rom. 8.33, 34, 35, 38, 39 Here then is the strong man disarmed, the Lion's mouth shut, the Serpents sting taken from him.  
Fourthly, over the Power of Death. To reason not improved by the supplemental light of divine revelation it seemed incredible, that God should raise the dead, Acts 26.8. And to him that considers the severity of God's justice, it might seem that when the judge should have delivered us to the officer, and he cast us into prison; we must by no means come out thence till we should have paid the utmost farthing. Math 5.25, 26. That is never at all. But when we consider, that as Christ was delivered for our offences, so he risen again for our justification, Rom. 4.25. we may thence very reasonably conclude, that he that raised up the Lord Jesus from the dead, will also quicken our mortal bodies, Rom. 8.11. And upon this account a good man hath confident hopes of victory over the power of Death, and can say, I know that my Redeemer liveth, and that he shall stand at the latter day upon the earth: And though after my skin worms destroy this flesh, yet with mine eyes shall I see God, Job 19.26.  
The precedent discourse being reflected upon, may be useful,  
First, to show us the excellency of the Christian faith above all other notions of a Deity that have been entertained in the world, in that it enables us for the great conflict, and gives us victory over the worst of our enemies. Indeed the ancient Romans have showed themselves sufficiently audacious in looking death in the face; but their confidence was supported by slender props, Amor patriae, laudumque immensa cupido. a desire to advance and enlarge the City whereof they were freemen, and to erect a monument of their own praise to posterity; this made them prodigal of their lives, and fearless of death. But a Christian hath a desire to departed hence, that he may be near unto Christ, and upon a full and mature consideration, finds this to be best for him, Phil. 1.23.  
An heathen may take some satisfaction in reflecting upon his life past, with Vixi, et quem dederat cursum natura peregi. I have lived, and filled up the station wherein nature hath placed me. But this comes short of the stable confidence of the Apostles, when in leaving the world he could say, I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord the righteous Judge shall give me in that day, 2 Tim. 4.7, 8.  
A Socrates from principles of Philosophy might conclude the immortality of the soul, and consider his wages in some sort. An opera nostra sit probaturus Deus nescio: certe sedulò conati sumns ut ei placerent: Est mihi tamen certa spes conatus nostros eum fore accepturum.  
But by what means imperfect good works could obtain acceptation with the strict justice of God, and how sin could obtain pardon with him, this Philosophy could not teach them. But the Scripture tells us, that God will own his people in the day when he maketh up his jewels, and will spare them as a man spareth his own son that serveth him, Mal. 3.17. That with the Lord there is mercy, and with him there is plenteous redemption; and that he shall deliver Israel from all their sins, Psal 130.18. So that we may say, Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who of his abundant mercy hath begotten us again to a lively hope, by the resurrection of Jesus Christ, from the dead, 1 Pet. 1.3. and hath hereby given us comfort through faith, in our conflict with this last and mortal enemy.  
Secondly, If a true Christian is conqueror over death, why then should he fear it? The spirit of a man will help him to sustain his infirmities, or bodily pains, Prov. 18.14. Manly courage should help to bear us up under outward trials. And the Spirit of God, bearing witness with our spirits that we are the children of God, Rom. 8.16. will help us to master the fear of death, as an enemy to the soul.  
Why then should we fear that Serpent that is disarmed of his sting? that Lion whose mouth is shut, and his jaw-teeths pulled out? that adversary whose weapons are taken from him? It is enough for them that know no better place to go unto, to to be afraid and unwilling to leave the world; enough for them that have not a God to support them, to sink under pains and sickness; enough for them that do not believe themselves to have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous, who is a propitiation for their sins, 1 Joh. 2.1. to be afraid to appear before Gods, tribunal. Christian religion hath taught better things to all that duly embrace it. And therefore let us comfort ourselves therewith, and with joy draw water out of these wells of salvation, Isa. 12.3.  
Thirdly, If we have overcome death, why should we sink under the fear of any other troubles? Death is called the King of terrors, Job 18.14. in the same sense as the Lion is called King among the beasts, and the Eagle among birds, because it is the chief of all the rest. And if the leader of terrors be overcome, why should we fear those that follow, and are less formidable! The uttermost that can be threatened by any worldly misery, is to bring us to death, under disadvantageous and dreadful circumstances. And if this be conquered, what need we fear that which can but threaten to bring us thither? Therefore let us not fear these fears, nor be afraid; but sanctify the Lord of hosts himself, and let him be our fear and our dread, Isa. 8.12, 13. Let us with cheerfulness expect, and with patience endure all the troubles of this life, because we have victory over the last enemy, Death.  
Thus much for the joyful report of this victory, which was propounded as the first general to be considered.  
The Second general in the Text, is, the thankful resentment of this victory vouchsafed to us, 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, thanks be to him that giveth it to us.  
How thankfully every good man should, and doth resent the victory vouchsafed unto him over Death, will appear by considering how great a privilege this is. And that will be evident to him that considers on the one hand the miserable estate of him that lies under the dominion of Death, and at its mercy; and on the other, the happy estate of him that through God's mercy hath obtained this victory.  
First, for the misery of those that are in subjection to Death, whose tender mercies are cruelty; this will appear, if we take notice of their estate, either when Death is apprehended at a distance, and under a remote prospect; or when it is at hand, and comes to do execution upon them.  
First, let us take notice of them when Death is apprehended at a distance, and under a remote prospect; and so the thoughts of Death as victorious over them, do  
First, alloy the generosity, and abate the sweetness of all worldly comforts. He that duly considers, that his time is in God's hands, Psal. 31.15. and that himself is not master of the next moment that is to pass by; that man goeth down to his grave, and returneth no more; and if a man die, shall he live again? Job 14.14. What a cooler doth this afford to his spirits, when warmed and made brisk with the enjoyment of worldly affluence? This is apt to make a man despair of all his labour under the Sun, and to reckon all but vanity and vexation of spirit, Eccles. 2.20. Considering, that the riches for which he hath toiled, and about which he hath disturbed himself; the pleasures in which he hath delighted to wallow; the honours to which he hath aspired, and climbed up by such a steep and slippery ascent, shall then cease from affording him any more satisfaction: And withal, that he is not within the prospect of a better enjoyment, that may recompense his loss of these present good things, but must go naked out of the world in all respects, as he came naked in, and so lie down in eternal misery.  
Secondly, this abates the lively and generous actings of the soul, and dismays it for any noble designs and attempts. When a man seriously considers all his endeavours under the the Sun to be like Spider's webs, spun with a great deal of painful labour, and exenterating care and contrivance, and after this, in a moment swept down and destroyed by the besom of Death; that when man's breath goeth forth, he returneth to his earth, and in the same day all his thoughts perish, Psal. 146.4.  
And if withal, there be not a greater and more noble design which such a man hath proposed to himself, and hath attained probable hopes of the accomplishment of it; this is apt to make him conclude, that truly man walketh in a vain shadow, verily they disquiet themselves in vain; and that every man living, upon ground, or in what capacity soever he stands, is altogether vanity, Psal. 39.5, 6. and to cry out with the wise man, Vanity of vanities, all is vanity, Eccl. 1.2.  
And if the profit that is in all labour do encourage a man to take pains, and to endeavour to show himself wise under the Sun; then sure these thoughts, of the vanity of humane designs and attempts, do take a man off from striving to do wisely and worthily in his generation.  
Thirdly, it dulls the edge of the soul for good duties. He that fancies himself to lie down under the burden of insuperable difficulties, that apprehends God to be an austere Master, Heaven to be unattainable, and Hell unavoidable, will have very little mind to stir up himself to lay hold upon God, or to work out his own salvation, Isa. 64.7. Phil. 2.12. or to use that violence of holy endeavours that is required in taking the kingdom of heaven, Mat. 11.12. For it is hope of success that quickens endeavours, and despair of this doth disspirit a man, and make him dull and unactive.  
Secondly, let us take notice of such a man when Death is at hand, and gins to encounter him; and here we find him in a very miserable estate that hath not attained victory over Death, for  
First, it dispossesseth him at once of all the fruits of his labours, and ejects him from the enjoyment of all his worldly acquisitions. Though whilst he lived he blessed his own soul, he shall go to the generation of his fathers, and shall no more see the light of comfort; and therefore man that is in honour and underctandeth not, is like the beasts that perish, Psal. 49.18, 19, 20. And is it not a dismal condition, for a man that hath toiled and bestowed great industry, that hath plotted and contrived to the disturbing of his head, and interrupting of his sleep, that hath pinched and denied himself the enjoyments of many worldly comforts, to increase his heap by parsimony; yea, that hath too often stained his conscience, and hazarded his soul, to heap up that which might be called a plentiful estate in this world; this man I say, to hear on a sudden that dreadful and heart-breaking voice, Thou fool, this night shall thy soul be taken from thee, and then whose shall all those things be, for which thou hast laboured? Luk. 12.20.  
Secondly, It dasheth all those vain hopes of Heaven, with which such a man had flattered himself. As there are politic projecting hypocrites, who know themselves to be no better than whited Sepulchers, Matth. 23.37. so are there many foolish Virgins, who bear about the lamp of an outward profession in their hands, and want oil to make it burn, Matth. 25.3. and yet are so simple as to expect at last to enter in with the Bridegroom as well as the best.  
And how sad will it be to them, when at death coming to the door, and crying Lord, Lord, open unto us, they shall be repulsed with, Verily I say unto you, I know you not. What is the hope of the hypocrite, though he have gained applause from the World, when God taketh away his soul? Will God then hear his cry, when trouble cometh upon him? Will he then delight himself in the Almighty? will he always call upon God? Job 27.8, 9, 10.  
Beside, there are many, who though they could not find in their hearts to day, while it was called to day, to hear God's voice, Heb. 3.8. yet they verily intended to take a time more convenient for these things. But now these men's hopes are over; the Bridegroom is come on a sudden, those that were ready are entered with him, and the doors are shut.  
Thirdly, Death puts an end to his day of Grace. Some men indeed have so long hardened their hearts against hearing the voice of God, that he hath already given them up to their own hearts lusts, Ps. 81.12. they have so long resisted the Holy Ghost in its strive, Acts 7.51. that God hath resolved that his Spirit shall no more strive with them, Gen. 6.3. But ordinarily mens day of grace is commensurate with the day of their lives, and whilst men are alive, there is no man so bad, but he may become better. But death puts an end to these expectations, it shuts-men up in an unalterable condition; and as the tree falls, so it shall lie for ever, whether toward the South, or toward the North, Eccles. 11.3.  
Fourthly, death commonly brings to a man's remembrance those sins, which before he was unmindful of. In the day of health and prosperity men are apt to put far from them the troublesome and ungrateful remembrance of their sins past. Worldly business, and company, and divertisements, worldly pleasures and delights suggest more sanguine thoughts to the mind. But when death cometh, God doth ordinarily, to them that are of sound mind and memory, show that he hath set their iniquities before him, and their secrets sins in the light of his countenance, Psal. 90.8. Yea, after his long silence, he doth then use to reprove men, and set their sins in order before their eyes, Psal. 50.21. and causeth men's iniquities to compass them about, as at their heels, Psal. 49.5. and lets them see and feel that it is an evil thing, and a bitter, that they have forsaken the living Lord, and that his fear hath not been before their eyes, Jer. 2.19. And judge how unwelcome this is to a man's mind, that hath long lain asleep in security, when it makes him cry out with Ahab to Elijah, hast thou found me, O my enemy? 1 Kin. 21.20.  
Fifthly, death puts the greatest affront imaginable upon the beautiful and majestic fabric of the body. This pile of dust and ashes that appeareth so stately through the Divine Architecture, that is so fearfully and wonderfully made in its contexture, Psal. 139.14. that is rendered so glorious by the enstamping of God's Image upon it, that is by God's ordination become so awful and formidable to inferior animals of far greater strength: This painted piece of dirt, that hath been so much doted upon, and adored for its delicate feature, and amiable intermixture of lilies and roses; this well-formed statue, which voluptuous persons have adored as a terrestrial Deity, Phil. 3.19. to which they have constantly sacrificed whole hecatombs of all the dainties which the Earth, the Air, and the Sea could afford; this flesh for which men have made provision to fulfil its lusts, Rom. 13.14. This must then become equal to the beasts that perish, a prey to the inferior animals, the very worms, loathsome to the eye of its former admirers; so that they that loved it best, when informed with a Soul, can afford it now no better compliment than, let me bury my dead out of my sight, Gen. 23.4.  
This that was sometime fed and clothed by the contrivance and industry of so many heads and hands, must go naked out of the world, as it came naked in, and lie solitary and neglected in the grave, keeping an everlasting fast; yea, instead of faring deliciously every day, itself must afford a meal to the worms, and say to corruption, thou art my father, Job 17.14 But this is not all, nor the worst yet.  
Sixthly, Death sends the Soul to be a prey to the worm that never dies. Here is the Moral of Prometheus his Vulture, the preying of the Conscience upon itself, with the ungrateful and corroding remembrance of the pleasures of this life, when they are to part as never to return; of the sins of a man's life, for which God doth now bring him into judgement, of the day of grace, which he neglected, being like the fool that had a price put into his hands to get wisdom, but had no heart to make use of it, Prov. 17.16.  
This is a vengeance worthy of God, a punishment suitable to the nature of a separate Soul, when it hath not the company of the Body to partake of the other torment, the fire that never shall be quenched, Mar. 9.44. To this torment death sends the soul, as judgmet shall hereafter send the body to the other. This is the unhappiness of those that so live as to fear death, and justly to fear it, because under its power and dominion in the worst and severest sense.  
But as we have seen the dark side, let us also take a view of the bright side of the cloud, let us.  
Secondly, consider the happy and comfortable condition of those that have attained a blessed victory over death, and and live in the enjoyment of the sense thereof, and so it will appear to be matter of thankful resentment, and worthy of giving praise to the author thereof: For,  
First, such a man enjoys more comfort in the world, than another man doth or can. God, as a bountiful Creator, hath given us variety of comforts in the things of this world, and it is his will that we should serve him with gladness and cheerfulness of heart in the abundance of all things, Deut. 28.47. And he is best able to rejoice and take comfort in the fruits of God's goodness, who hath overcome the danger and fear of Death. For  
First, This sets his Aflections above the world. It is most certain that whatsoever we have of worldly enjoyments, either imperat, aut servit, to some the world is a master, to others a servant. And as it is a very useful and obsequious servant when it is kept under, so it is a very imperious and tyrannical master when we subject ourselves to it.  
Now he only is a truly free man, who hath placed his most lively affections upon better things. this frees him from those eager desires after getting more, which like a 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 in the body, do gnaw the mind with perpetual unquietness: from those distracting sollicitudes about worldly matters, which keep the soul continually upon the Rack, drawing it this way and that way. And in the affluence of the things desired, this prevents that puffing up with pride, which like a status in the Hippocondries, or a tumour in any part of the body, renders the mind subject to an uneasy calendure: that pinching greediness in keeping together the heap, which like a compressed vessel in nature hindering the free motion of the blood and spirits, bindeth the soul, and hinders it from a comfortable enjoyment of its portion. This dischargeth the mind from that anxiety as to losing these things, which in many takes away the pleasure they should reap from the enjoyment of them; and finally so suits the spirit to a compliance with the Divine Providence, that it reckons the lines fallen to it in a pleasant place, Psal. 16.8. and shakes off that repining and discontent, which like an unfit shoe, makes a man step uneasily in the condition wherein he walketh.  
Now this is the victory whereby we overcome the World, even our Faith, 1 Joh. 5.4. This raiseth the heart above it, when we with comfort look on ourselves as strangers and pilgrims in it, and such as seek a better Country, that is an heavenly, Heb. 11.16.  
Secondly, this satisfies a man's mind that his main concerns are secured, and the greatest of fears overcome. Go thy way, eat thy bread, drink thy drink with a merry heart, for God accepteth thy works, Eccl. 9.7. In worldly matters, then are we at ease, and can enjoy a friend, or take satisfaction in any other comfort, when our greatest concerns are secured, and our main business over. And especially in spiritual affairs, then do a man's morsels go down sweetly, and he doth sleep with freedom and security, when the fear of God's wrath is removed, and an interest in his love and favour secured.  
This is bread that the World knows not of, hidden Manna, Rev. 2.17. such joy as a stranger intermeddleth not with, Prov. 14.10. Such is the sweetness and satisfaction that this affords, that the like is in vain sought for in worldly acquisitions. Lord lift thou up the light of thy countenance upon us: And this puts gladness into our hearts more than the men of the World have in the time when their Corn, and Wine, and Oil increaseth, Ps. 4. 6, 7.  
Secondly, such a man goes along in the way of his duty with vigour and delight. It is a great happiness as well as a duty, to cut with a keen edge in doing the will of God, to proceed with vigour, and to take delight and complacency in doing well. And there is nothing so much conduceth to work in us this temper of mind, as confidence of a reward added to a conscientious sense of God's command. Be not weary of well-doing, knowing that in due time ye shall reap, if ye faint not, Gal. 6.7. Be steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord; forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord, 1 Cor. 15.58.  
Thirdly, he will pass through the difficulties of a Christian course with courage and serenity of spirit. The Apostle tells us, that we have need of patience, that after we have done the will of God, we may inherit the promises, Heb. 10.36. because through much tribulation we pass into the kingdom of heaven, Act. 14.22. And if we faint in the day of adversity, it showeth our strength to be small, Prov. 24.10.  
Now this consideration, that death will put an end to all these troubles, and a confident persuasion, that death shall be an happy change to us, will help us to hold out with courage and cheerfulness, in opposition to fainting or fretting at the difficulty of the way. Thus Moses chose rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin: because he had respect to the rceompence of reward, Heb. 11.25, 26. Yea, the master of that house, in which Moses was faithful as a Servant, was by the joy that was set before him, encouraged to endure the cross, and despise the shame, Heb. 12.2.  
Fourthly, he will be fit for every condition, and know how to behave himself aright in it. It is an hard matter, in the day of prosperity to rejoice in the Lord, and to carry that full Cup so evenly as not to spill it. And it is as hard, in the day of adversity to consider, Eccl. 7.14. to be mindful, that we ought thankfully to receive evil as well as good from the hand of God, Job 2.10. To keep from despising the chastening of the Lord, also from fainting when we are corrected by him, Heb. 12.5.  
Now nothing will better teach us these hard lessons than a true victory over death. This will moderate our joy in prosperity, and make us rejoice with trembling, and as though we rejoiced not, because the time is short, 1 Cor. 7.29. It will moderate our sorrow in the time of trouble, as considering, that these are light afflictions, and endure but for a moment; and that they work for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory, 2 Cor. 4.17. So every way happy is that courageous Christian, that hath obtained victory over this last enemy.  
The greatness of this privilege hath in some sort been represented, to oblige us to thankfulness. That this is a privilege attainable was showed upon the former general head, But there is something required in, and from us, that conduceth much to the gaining of this victory, viz. Courage, strength and Skill. First, Courage, or Christian resolution, faint-heartedness weakeneth the hands, disappointeth contrivance, and frustrateth endeavours. Let us therefore arm ourselves with the same mind that was in Christ, when he suffered in the flesh for us, 1 Pet. 4.1. that same mind wherewith he endured the cross, and despised the shame, Heb. 12.2. Let us manfully resolve to leave the World with willingness and joy; not lingering in it, like Lot in Sodom, nor looking back with his Wife, as unwilling to leave it, Gen. 19, 16, 26. But duly considering that in Heaven we have a better and a more enduring substance, Heb, 10.34. Let the spirit of a man help us to bear the infirmities and pains of our body, Prov. 18.14. And as Christians let us consider that it is God's hand, and that this is the passage he hath appointed to eternal joys. Let us not be afraid of God's Tribunal, as knowing that we have an Advocate with the Father, 1 Joh. 2.1.  
Secondly, Strength, without which Courage doth bestow itself to little purpose. Let us not go forth in our strength, but in the strength of the Lord; and encounter this Philistine in the name of the Lord of Hosts, 1 Sam. 17.45. from him let us derive strength by prayer, even the prayer of Faith; For this is the victory that overcometh death, as well as the world, even our Faith, 1 Joh. 5.4. even that Faith, which is the substance of things hoped for, and the evidence of things not seen, Heb. 11.1. Let us by Faith look unto Christ's death and resurrection, as that whereby he hath overcome death for us; and to the joys that are before us: In this strength let us encounter death.  
Thirdly, Shill, without which courage will make use of strength unhappily. Let us acquaint ourselves with death, and be at peace, so shall it be well with us. Set not only God, but Death also always before our eyes, and in this sense die daily, 1 Cor, 15.31. Let us exercise ourselves in velitations and skirmishes with the thoughts of death in the time of our health and strength: Consider what death is in all its notions, and then its approach will be familiar, and no ways dreadful unto us. Hereby we shall successfully prelude to that last conflict and conquest.  
To conclude this head, let those that are so happy as to live in the comfortable sense of their having obtained this blessed victory over Death, be careful to walk as children of the Kingdom.  
First, in holiness and righteousness before God. Because thou hast delivered my soul from death, mine eyes from tears, and my feet from falling, I will walk before the Lord in the land of the living, Psal. 116.8.19. Seeing that all these things must be dissolved, and we know so much, and are not afraid to know and consider it, what manner of persons ought we to be in all holy conversation and godliness? And seeing we look for such things, a great conflict, and a glorious victory over a formidable enemy, let us be diligent, that we may be found of him in peace at that day, without spot, and blameless, 2 Pet. 3.11.16.  
Those that fight or run for victory do diet themselves, and are temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible Crown, but we observe rules that we may obtain that which is incorruptible, 1 Cor. 9.25. Well may we then be content to deny ourselves, to keep under our bodies, and bring them into subjection, that the sensual appetite being subdued, may not clog us in that great congress.  
Secondly, let our temper savour of Heaven. If ye be risen with Christ, and have a sense of the benefit of his death and resurrection, in order to the overcoming of death, seek those things that are above: Set your affections on things above, not on things out he earth, Col. 3.1, 2. Let those that believe death to be the end of all pleasure and comfort, give themselves up wholly to enjoy the good things that are present, but let us declare plainly that we seek a Country, Heb. 11.14.  
Thirdly, let us walk humbly with our God, Mic. 6.8. Let us say, Not unto us, O Lord, not unto us; but to thy name be the glory of this victory, Psal. 115.1. Let us be duly sensible that it is the Lord that delivereth us from the paw of the Lion, and of the Bear, and from this great Goliath. Let us not arrogantly peark up our heads like empty boughs, or blasted ears of corn, but like those that are loaden with good fruit; let us stoop toward the earth in a thankful sense of the great obligations that God hath laid upon us. Which leads me from this second general head of Discourse, to the  
Third general in the Text, the Author of this victory acknowledged and magnified, 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, Thanks be to God, that giveth us this victory. The hand that reacheth out a favour doth many times add very much to that which is conferred upon us. Now this is a princely favour, bestowed by the royal hand of the King of glory, it is God's gift: For,  
First, as all good things do come from God, so in particular all spiritual gifts, all the graces and comforts of a Christian are the products of his favour and bounty. Every good gift, and every perfect gift cometh down from above, even from the Father of lights, James 1.17. even from that supreme being, and first cause of all things, in whom we live, and move, and have our being, Acts 17.28. Particularly, he it is that blesseth us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly things in Christ. Eph. 1.3. He is called the God of all Grace, that God who hath called us into his eternal Glory by Christ Jesus, and who, after we have suffered a while, will make us perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle us, 1 Pet. 5.10. He is the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort, who comforteth us in all our tribulation, 2 Cor. 1.3. And therefore this especial comfort that ariseth from victory over death, is to be owned with thankfulness, as his gift.  
Secondly, it is a gift which none but himself can bestow. Human reason and manly courage may in part support us under the thoughts of leaving the World, and sleeping in the Grave, by telling us that the World is vanity and vexation of spirit; and helping us to consider that we are every way as well at ease w●en we are a-sleep, and forget the World, as when we are awake to enjoy it.  
But what strength or courage of a mortal man can bear up without fainting under weakening decays of bodily vigour, and endure, without complaining, that tedious pain and anguish with which it pleaseth God sometimes to afflict our bodies; except he that lays on his hand to afflict, do also put underneath his everlasting arms to support? Thou, even thou art to b● feared, and who may stand in thy sight when on ●●th 〈◊〉 w●●●●? Psal. 76.7. Can thy heart endure, or thy hand be strong in the day when God shall visit thee? Ezek. 22.14.  
Especially who can bear up under the dreadful apprehension of appearing before almighty God as the judge of all the world, except he hath comfortable apprehensions of God being reconciled, and the judge become his friend? They were no cowards, nor sorry, mean spirited persons, but the Kings of the earth, and the great men, and the rich men, and the chief captains, and the mighty man, and every freeman, as well as every bondman, that sought to hid themselves in dens and in the rocks of the mountains: that courted the mountains and rocks to fall on them, and to hid them from the face of him that sat on the throne, and from ●he face of the Lamb: for when the great day of his wealth should come, who, say they shall be able to stand before him? Revel. 6, 15.16.17.  
Thirdly, this enemy Death, is in perfect subjection to God as his servant, and therefore he is able to bless us with victory, and to command deliverance to Jacob. No man can enter the house of a strong man armed, and spoil his goods, except he fi●st bind the strong man, Mar, 3.27. Now this can God do, not only in respect of his infinite power to which all creatures in heaven and earth do bow and obey, whereby he can stop the mouths of Lions, suspend the natural influence of fi●e, appease the rage and swelling of the sea: But also because Death is his servant, the minister of his wrath, the executioner of his justice. And therefore he that saith to the raging sea, peace, and be still: yea that hath placed the friable body of sand to be a rampart against its fury, by a perpetual decree, which it cannot pass, nor return again to cover the earth, Jer. 5.22. He also gives laws to death, and sets bounds to its rage, giving victory over it to them that fear him.  
Fourthly, the conferring of this victory is a favour, that will eminently show the great love and kindness of God to his people, for naturally we are under the power and dominion of death by reason of sin: it being as due as the wages to the workman when he ended hath his business. And it was the mere mercy and undeserved good will of God toward the workmanship of his own hand (now degenerated and become miserable through their own wilfulness) that helped them to overcome that enemy, which themselves had form to be a thorn in their sides, and a prick in their eyes.  
Yea it was a peculiar favour to mankind, not vouchsafed to the superior order of reasonable creatures, to be able to vanquish that death, that misery, which there ungrateful revolting from their maker had brought upon themselves; for verily the Son of God took not on him the nature of Angels, nor helped them up, but he took on him, and relieved the seed of Adam, and for them did by death overcome him that had power over death, even the devil, and delivered them, who otherwise through fear of death must all their life time have been subject to bondage, Heb. 2.14, 15, 16.  
Yea, it is a mercy not vouchsafed to all mankind, as to the actual enjoyment of it, but to those only that believe in him. To as many as received him, he gave power to become the sons of God, John 1.12. to have part in the first resurrection, so that the second death should have no power over them, Rev. 20.6.  
Fifthly, consequently this Garland of Victory doth greatly oblige the hearts of God's people unto himself. It being the fruit of that preventing love, that remembered us in our low and lost estate, even because his mercy endureth for ever, Psal. 136.23. the manifestation of the kindness and bounty of God to procure for us so great a privilege as this victory hath appeared to be; and that at so dear a rate, as the most precious blood of his own Son, that Lamb without spot and blemish, 1 Pet. 1.19. So God loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life, Joh. 3.16. This tends to draw us with the cords of a man, with cords of love, Hos. 11.4. It sets us upon our legs, to run the way of God's commandments; it renders us subjects capable of ingenuous service, by setting us free with the glorious liberty of the Sons of God, Rom. 8.21. And withal it layeth the strongest engagements of love and gratitude upon us, to give up ourselves, both souls and bodies, as living sacrifices unto him, Rom. 12.1. and being delivered from our enemies, to serve him without slavish fear, in holiness and righteousness before him all the days of our life, Luk. 1.74, 75.  
This period being reflected upon, will be of use, First, to resolve that wonder that sometimes possesseth our minds, when we behold the great courage and undaunted confidence of some persons in looking death in the face. Many that could not look upon those instruments of violent death, a sword or pistol, in the hand of an enemy, people that are of weak constitutions and mean spirits for encountering an adversary abroad, have yet been able to entertain death, when coming from Gods own hand, with great composure and sedateness of spirit; yea many whose education hath placed them under disadvantageous circumstances, through want of due knowledge and clear notions as to other things, have been able to grapple with death, when clothed with all that terror which cruel men could hang on its back. The reason is, because God gave them that gift, which is in his own power to bestow; and this wind bloweth where it listeth; these favours are many times conferred upon babes in Christ.  
Secondly, to satisfy us on the contrary, concerning the dejectedness and despondency wherewith some men do meet death; from whom yet better things might have been expected. Men of strong bodies, athletic constitution, happy education, great parts, much reading, how fearful have they been to look death in the face! yea a good man, when God hides the light of his countenance from him, doth tremble to think of death and judgement; of this a reason is easily given from what hath been spoken; the Author of so great a blessing withholds it where it doth not seem good to his infinite wisdom to bestow it.  
Thrirdly, this directs us whether to apply ourselves to obtain strength in the last encounter. We must not trust to ourselves, to natural or acquired gifts, but we must go forth in the strength of the Lord, and make mention of his name, even of his only, Psal. 71.16. On him let us call by prayer, him let us solicit by acting faith on him, who giveth power to the faint, and to them that have no might he increaseth strength, Isa. 40.29.  
Fourthly, what thanks and obedience can be sufficient for a just acknowledgement to God from them, to whom he hath vouchsafed this glorious triumph over death? It is the greatest victory that can be imagined, to conquer this king of terrors; the greatest gift we can think of imploring the divine favour to bestow upon us in this world, that he will furnish us with that strength and resolution, that will make us not afraid to leave the world. It is one of the blessed fruits of our Saviour's meritorious sufferings and obedience.  
And therefore, what shall we return unto the Lord for this, and all other his benefits! What thanks offering can be of due value to present unto him! what fruit of the lips, what obedience of heart and life can be sufficient to express 〈◊〉 r●s●●ment of this favour? O give thanks unto the Lord, for he is God, 〈◊〉 h●● me●●y ●●du●●eth for ever. Let the redeemed of the L●●d 〈◊〉, whom he h●●h redeemed from the hand of the enemy. O 〈◊〉 would praise the Lord for his goodness, and for his wondered wor●s towards the sons of men! Psal. 107.1, 2, 8. But from the Author of this victory, which was proposed as the third thing considerable, let us advance to the  
Fourth General to be considered in the Text, the procuring cause of this victory, by whom it was acquired, and purchased for us, 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, through our Lord Jesus Christ.  
The main argument whereby the Apostle had established that great Article of our Faith, the resurrection of the body, in the precedent part of this Chapter, was grounded upon the resurrection of Christ from the dead: Who not only showed that it was neither impossible, nor yet incredible that God should raise the dead, Acts 26.8, because he himself overcome the sharpness of death, and broke its bonds; but also by rising as a public person, the second Adam, the first-fruits from the dead, hath made way for us also to follow him in the resurrection of our bodies.  
And this expression in the Text seems to be the Epiphonema, or close of that discourse and arguing. It is in Christ that God blesseth us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly things, Eph. 1.3. And particularly this blessed victory over death is derived unto us through Christ; several ways hath Christ overcome death, and made way for our being victorious over it.  
First, he hath destroyed the sting of death, even sin, by his merits and sufferings. The sting is the most formidable part in those animals that are armed therewith: And sin which rendered us obnoxious to the wrath of God, and curse of the Law, was the chief thing that made death dreadful to mankind, as arresting us, in order to bringing us before the Judge of all the earth, who will render to every man according to his works, Rom. 2.6.  
But this sting hath Christ plucked out from death, by his voluntary and meritorious obedience answering the exaction of the Law, and by his unparallelled and meritorious sufferings enduring the malediction thereof. So that there is now no condemnation to them that are in Christ Jesus, Rom. 8.1. As a great High Priest he hath by one offering perfected for ever them that are sanctified, Heb. 10.14. As our surety he hath paid our debts, and canceled the hand-writing that was against us. As our God he hath redeemed us, not with corruptible things, as silver and gold, but with his own most precious blood, 1 Pet. 1.19. And in each respect God is just, and yet the justifier of the ungodly, when he believeth in Jesus, Rom. 3.26. In him mercy and truth are met together, righteousness and peace have kissed each other, Psal. 85.10.  
Secondly, he hath overcome the pains of death by his example and promises. By his example, who as the Captain of our Salvation was made perfect through sufferings, Heb. 2.10. He suffered perfectly all that the Law of God could exact, or the rage of his enemies inflict. And he was perfect under his sufferings, so as not to entrench the least upon the bounds of complete patience, Jam. 1.2. He was led as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before the shearers is dumb, so he opened not his mouth, Isa. 53.7. When he was reviled, he reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not, 1 Pet. 2.23.  
Further, by his sufferings he perfected the work of our Redemption, and fully satisfied Divine Justice. And hereby he hath engaged, and encouraged us to arm ourselves likewise with the same mind, because Christ hath suffered in the flesh for us, 1 Pet. 4.1.  
And by his promises he hath encouraged us, telling us, that this straight way leadeth to life; that in the mean time he will never fail us, nor forsake us, Heb. 13.5. But when we pass through the fire and water, he will be with us, Isa. 43.1, 2, and that these light afflictions that endure but for a season, do work for us a far more excellent and eternal weight of glory, 2 Cor. 4.17.  
Thirdly, he hath wiped away the scandal of death, by his leading the way, in suffering death, and lying in the grave. It is a great affront to this stately piece of well-formed earth, to own kindred with corruption and worms, Job 17.14. But Christ, the best of men, yea the Son of God, hath led us on the way to Golgotha, and we need not be ashamed to follow him in the steps he hath trodden. He suffered before he was glorified, he endured the cross, and digested the shame of that scandalous death, before he set down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, Heb. 12.3. And therefore it is no disgrace to us to die, and be laid in the grave.  
Yea, it was a far bitterer cup that he drank off for us, than what God useth to put into the hands of his people; and therefore we should not scruple at drinking our own portion. He hath perfumed the grave, by laying his own body there before us: This Unicorn, by dipping his own horn beforehand, hath rendered these waters safe and wholesome: So that we shall rest in our graves, as in beds; every man that hath walked before him in his uprightness, Isa. 57.2.  
Fourthly, he hath vanquished the power of death by his resurrection. Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who of his abundant mercy hath begotten us again to a lively hope, by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 1 Pet. 1.3. Hereby he shown to the World that he had by death overcome him that had the power of death, even the Devil, Heb. 2.14. Yea, that he hath not only commanded a passage for himself, whom death could not possibly hold any longer than was necessary for the satisfying of Divine Justice, Acts 2.24. but hath also taken away the keys of power from this surly Porter, and made way for his own people to follow him: And because I live, ye shall live also, Joh. 14.19.  
Fifthly, he killed the Hopes of death by his Ascension. Thereby he made it evident that he had fully accomplished his mediatory Function upon earth, and that Christ being risen from the dead, dieth no more, death must have no more dominion over him, Rom. 6.9. that he should no more submit to take on him the form of a servant, and to be obedient to death, Phil. 2.8.  
And consequently it may encourage Believers, that as it is appointed for men once to die, Heb. 9.27. so this trouble shall be dispatched at once; so that they that have part in the first resurrection, over them the second death shall have no power, Rev. 20.6.  
Sixthly, he shall destroy the very being of death at the last day. Death hath its commission extended to the end of this World; and then the rod that hath so long been used for the trial and chastisement of mankind, shall itself be cast into the fire. The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death, 1 Cor. 15.26. Then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, I will ransom them from the power of the grave, I will redeem them from death. O death I will be thy plagues, O grave I will be thy destruction; repentance is hid from mine eyes. Hos. 13.14.  
As consequents of this that hath been last spoken, First, we may consider how glorious was the Conquest of Christ in his sufferings: Well might it be said that he was made perfect by them, Heb. 2.10. For he obtained by dearh a most complete victory over death in all its circumstances; and over him that had the power of death, both for himself, and also for all his people.  
Secondly, therefore how great was God's love in sending his Son into the World! Joh. 3.16. So God loved the World, that he gave his only begotten Son: Scarcely for a righteous man would one die: Yet peradventure for a good, or useful man, some might be found, that would even dare to die. But God commended his love to us, in that when we were so far from being good and useful men, that we were not so much as righteous and innocent men, yet in due time Christ died, even for the ungodly, Rom. 5.7, 8.  
Thirdly, let us hence learn to fly unto Christ, and to secure our interest in him. This is the way to have a right to that comfort that flows from his incarnation and death, and thereby to have satisfaction and comfort both in our life time, and at our death; to be secure under the preapprehensions of it, and to entertain it with joy and comfort when it cometh. If his wrath be kindled, yea, but a little, blessed are all they that put their trust in him; therefore let us kiss the Son, Psal. 2.11, 12. and give all diligence to make our calling and election sure, 2 Pet. 1.10. let us examine ourselves, whether we be in the faith; and prove, and know our own selves, whether Christ Jesus be form in us, 2 Cor. 13.5. that when death shall summon us to an encounter we may be victorious over it.  
Fourthly, let the redeemed of the Lord walk with joy and thankfulness before him, as in a sense of all other his mercies, so particularly of this blessed fruit of our Saviour's death and resurrection, the glorious victory thereby obtained for us over death. Bless the Lord, O our souls, and all that is within us bless his holy name. Bless the Lord, our souls, and forget not all his benefits. Who forgiveth all our iniquities, who healeth all our diseases. Who redeemeth our life from destruction, who crowneth us with lovingkindness and tender mercies, Psal. 103.1, 2, 3, 4. And let us walk cheerfully before God in a sense of our great privilege, amongst all the troubles of the world that accompany us in our abode here, and under the thoughts of leaving this world at last; forasmuch as this last enemy is vanquished, let us not fear any thing else; but under our dependencies let us call up our souls to a more comfortable and cheerful temper; let us chide away dejectedness and drooping, and say, why art thou cast down, O my soul, and why art thou disquieted within me? Hope in God, for I shall yet praise him, who is the help of my countenance, and my God, Ps. 42.11.  
And, that I may come to a closer application of the point, and pass à thesi ad hypothesin, this victory over death, which I might have been representing unto you from the words of the Apostle, as attainable by a Christian, and his singular privilege was, no doubt, the acquisition and privilege of our dear and reverend Brother, whose Remains we are now assembled to inter. And for that reason I have insisted upon this subject, to press us all to imitate him in fight for the same victory. The name of the wicked shall rot (saith the wise man), but the memory of the just shall be blessed, Pr. 10.7. Of wicked Jehoram it is said, he departed without being desired, 2 Chr. 21.20. But of good Jehoiadah (and I am now speaking of a Priest, though not an High Priest) that the people did him honour at his death, because he had done good in Israel, ch. 24.16. The wicked leaves the world like a filthy Lamp, leaving an offensive stench in the Nostrils of all that knew him: but a Good man ends his days like a Wax-taper that exchangeth its pleasant and useful light for the grateful scent it leaves behind it.  
The Psalmist tells us, That precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his Saints, Ps. 116.15. And our Lord Jesus Christ, when he conversed with men on earth, when Lazarus a good man was dead, (although as man he believed his Soul to be removed to present Bliss, and as God he knew that he should return to life again in this world) being free from those turbulent Passions that are our sin, and at once our burden, it is said 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, Jo. 11.33. He troubled himself, and expressed his trouble of mind by tears flowing from his eyes, ver. 35. to show us that we may so now (and aught to do it) even for them that sleep in Jesus, but not as they that have no hope; (this Sorrow I encourage,) and yet that it may not swell beyond its just banks, this Hope I am about to establish concerning this our worthy Brother. In speaking of whom, though a passionate Friend, and true Lover, I shall speak nothing but the words of truth and soberness, either known to be true by my own personal acquaintance with him, or attested by them that will not be ashamed to own their own testimony.  
And if we begin in digging to the rock whence he was hewn, he was a Prophet, the Son, and Grandson, and Nephew of a Prophet; a Priestly Family, from which the former Generation sent two, and this last Generation four to serve at God's Altar; a sign of worthy and truly Christian blood running in their veins, when they could value the Gospel of Christ, and that Office that employs us in the dispensation of it (though attended God knows, with great troubles) above those riches that might have flown into them in greater plenty, and with more ease in other Employments; a true token that they were not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ, which they found to be the power of God unto Salvation to those that believe, Rom. 1.16. A● c●●●ain conviction of that vulgar Error that bodes ill success to 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 of Clergy men, when in two Generations the Posterity of such men was blessed: Nor need others despair of the like happiness, if they be not wanting to themselves in drawing down God's blessing upon their Families. An happy and graceful Ornament to the Church, when Coals kindled in the Sanctuary itself produce burning and shining Lights, John 5.35. and Bezaleel and Aholiab train up workmen that need not to be ashamed of their work, 2 Tim. 2.15.  
Though Nature doth not always send forth boughs answering the qualities of the root, and of the Seed that was sown; yet that Cultivation which in the productions of the Earth doth either advance the natural Fruit by melioration, or alter the Tree by grafting more generous Offsprings upon the root, doth also in Spiritual productions conduce much to make the Branches as well as the Root holy.  
His promoting to the Schools of the Prophets was owing to the care of good Parents: The happy proficiency he shown in his studies there, to God's blessing upon his own great industry in tilling that rich soil that fell to his lot: Which when it had brought to perfection that plentiful crop, that betimes began to groan for the hook, invited hungry souls to desire to be fed therewith, and brought him to be an early Shepherd in feeding Christ's sheep and lambs. Which will lead me on to consider him.  
First, in his Preaching, and so we find him feeding the flock of God, amongst which he was, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; not as lording it over God's heritage, but as being an example to the flock, 1 Pet. 5.2.3. Preaching the word, being instant in season, out of season, reproving, rebuking, exhorting, with all long-suffering and doctrine, 2 Tim. 4.2.  
And though I am far from being so bold or presumptuous, as to censure my brethren, who do not think it their duty bis venire ad mulctram, yet give me leave to pay due honour to the labours of such, who in so doing cannot be suspected to seek any thing else than the benefit of the souls committed to their care.  
For his own part, he did willingly spend, and was spent for his. Flock, 2 Cor. 12.15. and burned our his taper the sooner, in humane probability, by lighting it, as we say, at both ends. Pertinaciously continuing in his Lord's work, even then when himself did by his providence call him off; as thinking, that Imperatorem decet stentem mori, & concionatorem concionantem: And endeavouring to emulate the industry of some worthy men before him, whom death found employed in the ministerial work. He had prepared what he was not able to communicate in the Pulpit, such instructions as should have helped you in keeping this last Passover, so soon after which he went to keep the Feast in Heaven.  
Secondly, let us consider him in his life; and in this sense, whether a Clergyman Preach more or less in the Church, he ought to preach every day to the people; by being an example to the Flock. 1 Pet. 5.3. and to the Believers a pattern, in Word, in Conversation, in Charity, in Faith, in Purity. Here let us consider him.  
First, as the Master of a Family; and as the Apostle saith, He that knoweth not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the Church of God? 1 Tim. 3.3. In this he was an example to the flock, and to other shepherds also. In his singular love and tenderness to his Wife (manifested, as all along, so chief at last, in his fervent prayers for her and her children, and his earnest recommending of them to the love and care of surviving friends.) In his fatherly love and care for his children. As to their bodies, and the concerns of this life (manifest in his denying himself in several respects, that he might make a comfortable provision for them.) As to their souls, both in their moral concerns (showed in the good education he afforded them, to the qualifying of them in some respects beyond most of their neighbours.) And in their spiritual concerns (manifest in the diligence he used in instructing them, by word when they were with him, by letters when they were removed from him, to remember their Creator, to make conscience of their ways, and to take care of their souls in the first place: and finally by the fervent prayers, whereby he recommended them to God at last).  
And I hope I may truly say it, as to what hath appeared already; and that they will still give me occasion to speak it, by what shall appear for the future, that his labours of this nature have not been in vain in the Lord. And that herein he hath not only afforded an example to others in doing his duty, but also hath left them encouragement to expect that the doing of it shall not want good success in their Families.  
Secondly, let us look upon him in a little larger capacity, as a neighbour and friend. And here we cannot mention without great commendation, the perfect concord and tender love that continued between him and his near relations, though placed under the disadvantage of some circumstances that might have interrupted that union, had not grace, and well-tempered spirits, continued the cement. Beside this, his loving and friendly carriage toward all men, but especially those of the household of Faith did commend him, both as a desirable member of Society, and as a man adoring that Ministerial Function, which employs us in preaching the Gospel of Peace, and commending God unto the World as the God of love and peace.  
Add to this his natural and unaffected gravity, which as it prevented his years in the beginning, so it favoured not of pride or furliness, but was a very good ornament to ministerial Authority, and left no man just reason to despise him.  
Thirdly, let us look upon him in a yet more enlarged capacity, as a Christian, or a member of the Church of God; and thus he left matter of commendation to himself, and of imitation to us, by his singular sobriety and temperance. Wherein possibly, through his great self-denial, he might have needed St. Paul's advice to Timothy, to drink oftener a little Wine, for his stomach's sake, and his many infirmities, 1 Tim. 5.23. Yet certainly his great abstemiousness gave a check to the unhappy fault in others in his presence.  
And yet neither the retiredness and abstemiousness of St. John Baptist, nor the sociableness and free conversation of our Saviour shall exempt them from scandal, who are set to reprove the sins of a generation of vipers. But wisdom is justified of all her children, Matth. 11.19.  
He was also a peaceable man, and a peacemaker, and therefore answered his title of an Ambassador of Peace, who is entrusted to dispense that fruit of the lips which is peace, peace. He was faithful in adhering to the Church of England, of which he was a member, and a Son, as I can witness, from what he spoke to me not long before his end; and as was evident in his earnest desire to receive the Lord's Supper, when he apprehended his end to draw nigh.  
But his piety and devotion was so eminent, that therein he exceeded most of his age; which his private Books will testify: Wherein he recorded God's eminent mercies, especially spiritual, vouchsafed to him and his, and also contrary passages of providence in the series of his whole life, with pious reflections and ejaculations attending each particular. His exemplary diligence in religious duties, both retiredly by himself, privately with his Wife, and also with his Family; as also his seriousness in public exercises, will show that Holiness was his temper, Religion his business, and Heaven his end and aim.  
And thither let us follow him, at least for the present, let us attend him to the mount of corruption, his sickbed, from whence he took his ascent thither. And the relation of God's deal with him there, and of his behaviour under God's hand, I must preface with the words of David, Mark the perfect man, and behold the upright; for the end of that man is peace, Psal. 37.37. Or with this comparison; As the Rivers when they draw near the Ocean into which they discharge themselves, begin to receive more of its savour, it meeting them upon the way with its brackish waves; so this River that had so long made glad the City of God, when it was about to disembogue itself into the Ocean of Eternity, was vouchsafed to have Heaven to meet it upon the way, in the blessed anticipation of an heavenly temper and fruition.  
Witness, First, his singular patience, which had its perfect work in him, when exercised under the tediousness and faintness of a lingering distemper, attended with failing and nauseousness of appetite, interruption of sleep, yea and great and exquisite pains, which at sometimes he endured towards his later end. All which he suffered with great perseverance of patience, expressing some jealousy over himself, left he should seem to discover the least of impatience in bearing the hand of God.  
Secondly, the strength of his Faith, whereby he gave glory to God, Rom. 4.10. Not staggering at those promises through unbelief, of which he had endeavoured to beget a belief in others, no not then when the hope of the hypocrite doth perish. This vessel of grace was brimful of consolation (to use his own expression) not in an airy or enthusiastical sense, but as the fruit of a steadfast Faith built upon a rock, and the accomplishment of those gracious discoveries of his love, which God had formerly vouchsafed him in the time of his health, especially after great zeal expressed in religious exercises.  
Thirdly, His Devotion did not flag or languish; in public he was a burning and shining light, even then when he was so far spent as to be advanced to a Prolonger: He spent all his Oil in giving light in the Church of God; all his strength was laid out in his Master's work: When restrained from Officiating in public by a Super-sedeas from Heaven, yet still in his own person, or with the assistance of Christian Friends, he continued instant in Prayer, yea, even then when he was not able to cry or speak, till at last he wasted up his Soul to Heaven upon the wings of Prayer. And this zealous Elijah was thither Translated as in a Fiery Chariot, conducted by those Angels that rejoice in one Member added either to the Militant or Triumphant Church.  
And now, to conclude; First give me leave to speak a few words to you my Reverend Brethren of the Clergy, and make bold to join myself also as an unworthy Brother; Let us take my Brethren, the Prophets, who have spoken in the name of the Lord for an example, Jam. 5.10. We are taught by our Church devoutly to bless God for all his servants departed this life in his faith and fear, and to beseech him to give us grace so to follow their good examples, that at last we may inherit his heavenly kingdom. We have in this our Reverend Brother an eminent example of piety, industry, zeal, gravity, love, peaceableness, gentleness, and usefulness in his Family, and amongst all his Relatives such as I will not say to you, but to myself I must confess hath afforded matter of regret and shame, to consider that in my attainments, and the management of myself in my Office I have come far shorter of him, then in years: Certainly his zeal may help to provoke and kindle Zeal for God in all of us.  
Secondly, to you of his Family, I would not have you, I know you are not ignorant of him that is asleep, that you sorrow not as others that have no hope; for if ye believe that Jesus died, and risen again, even so him and all others that sleep in Jesus shall God bring with him; wherefore comfort one another with these Words, 1 Thes. 4.13, 14, 18.  
Let his memory be always precious with you, and his love warm in your hearts: let his Example be still before your eyes, and the good things that he hath left upon record, for your satisfaction and encouragement as to his Eternal estate, let them be as Nails, and as Goads to you to settle you in goodness, and to provoke you to go forward in the ways of true Piety.  
And though God hath in great mercy placed you above the necessity of a miraculous provision, yet I dare boldly say, that sooner would God work a Miracle, then that the Family of such a Prophet living as becomes such a man's Family, should come to want.  
Thirdly, Lastly to you of this Parish; it is remarkable that God hath blessed you with Able and Worthy men to be Guides to your Souls, at least as long as the Eldest of you can remember; and which is another mercy, that God hath lengthened out their lives among you, so that though there have been Removes, yet not one Minister of this Parish hath died here in above Seventy years' last passed.  
Here stand still, and consider what God could have done more to this his Vineyard, which he hath not done. But what Fruit hath it brought forth by way of Return? I charge not, nor censure you in the least; but Examine I beseech you your own selves, whether you be in the Faith, prove yourselves, Whether Christ be form in you: Let every man prove his own Works.  
Again, Let the memory of God's faithful Ministers be precious among you, especially of this Worthy Person now with God. Be not of them that hate and malign them that reprove in the Gate.  
Pray God to raise you up a Pastor after his own heart, a Faithful and able man that may feed this people with the words of wholesome doctrine, and lead them by the pattern of an holy and exemplary life.  
Remember them that have spoken to you in the name of the Lord, whose Faith follow, knowing the end of their conversation, Heb. 13.7. For your Fathers, where are they? and the Prophets, do they live for ever? but God's Word, and his Statutes which he commanded his servants the Prophets, did they not take hold on your Fathers? and will they not take hold on you? Zech. 1.5, 6.  
Be ye not therefore slothful, but followers of them, who through faith and patience inherit the Promises; that when the last Enemy that is to be destroyed shall assault you, it may come disarmed of a Sting; that ye may be able to say triumphantly, O Death where is thy Sting, O Grave where is thy Victory? thanks be to God that giveth us the Victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Which God of his Mercy grant, through the Merits of him who through Death overcame him that had power of Death, even the Devil, Now to the Blessed Trinity be Glory and Dominion for ever and ever. Amen.  
FINIS.