A WAY UNTO TRUE Christian Unity: The worship of God in Spirit and in Truth: TOGETHER With many Spiritual benefits therein received now in this life, and everlastingly. All expressly delivered in the Holy Scripture, And declared in an Exposition of a certain Fundamental portion of the Sacred Text. Written for the lessening of Differences, and for the increasing of Concord in the godly truth eternal. Also for to make more manifest a firm Ground, whereon holy Unity may be built up, unto the highest degree of perfection, attainable in this World. Behold, how good and how pleasant it is, for brethren to dwell together in Unity. Psal. 133.1. But the hour comes, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in Spirit and in Truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship Him. Joh. 4.23. Illo tempore nihil tam conveniens servo Dei videbatur, quàm Unitatem sequi. Hieron. count. Lucif. cap. 7. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 LONDON, Printed by John Legatt, and are to be sold by Edward Wright, at the sign of the Bible near Pie-corner, 1648. To my very loving and much honoured friend and neighbour, Mr. JOHN BATHURST Doctor of Physic in London, be the gracious accomplishment of the promise, which Godliness hath, of the life that now is, 1 Tim. 4.8. and of that which is to come. THe eternal God (blessed for ever) saying: a jer. 8.22. Is there no Balm in Gilead? Is there no Physician there? Why then is not the health of the daughter of my people recovered? signifieth thereby, that as there is salve for corporal infirmity; so is there likewise for spiritual malady. And therefore He that hath b Mal. 4.2. healing in His wings, having pronounced, c Mat. 9.12. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, The sick have need of a Physician; hath taught therein, That d Isa. 55.2, 3. endeavour should be for health in soul, Ut sit mens e 2 Tim. 1.7. sana in corpore sano. Also like as the Sentence saith concerning what is bodily, f Sir. 38.4. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, The Lord hath created medicines out of the earth, and he that is wise will not abhor them; so hath He out of his infinite wisdom brought forth his most holy word; and whatsoever his Servants publish for to further spiritual welfare, and being the g Prov. 1.8. true doctrine of the sacred Scripture, it should not be h 1 Thess. 5.20, 21. despised, but i Acts. 17.11. taken into due consideration. It is a Saying among the Jews, 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 A man learneth not so much of his own self, as he learneth of another. One k Buxtorfius Lexico Chaldaico Rabbinico ad radicem 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 expresseth it, Non tantum valet studium privatum, quam id quod cum alio quis habet common. The Almighty Creator doth so l 1 Cor. 12.8, 9, 10, 11, 25. pour out of his Spirit upon the Mystical body of his Son (to Whom be honour and glory everlastingly) as that one member may make use of another, according to his holy ordinance. Moreover, whereas the wise man's Exhortation is, m Sir. 38.1. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, Honour the Physician; and having myself consulted with you my much beloved neighbour and Physician for bodily infirmities, and by God's blessing finding much help and comfort from you; in mutual love and thankfulness I offer unto you these Spiritual counsels and soule-salves, praying that He, who is the true Tree of life, Whose leaves are for the n Rev. 22.2. healing of the Nations, may universally bless them to you, yours, and all the o Gal. 6.16. Israel of God. And although some have (as the Apostle relateth) p Acts. 28.27. refused to be healed; yet the Heavenly q Ezek. 2.7. command was, Thou shalt speak my words unto them, whether they will hear, or whether they will forbear. Also howsoever unto them, which r Phil. 3.19. Luke. 12.20, 21. 2 Tim. 3.4. mind and esteem most the earthly things, the meditating and observing of such matters, as are in this Treatise following declared by the Word of the Lord to be Christian duties, may seem s Job. 2●. 14, 15 Mal. 3.14. unnecessary; yet unto those that will search all the places of Scripture quoted therein, to know more and more the t Eph. 5 17. Rom. 12.2. will of God for to do u Mat. 6.10. Ps. 40.8. it, there will * Joh. 7.17. and 8.31, 32. appear, that the very true x 2 Tim. 3, 5. Power of Godliness is herein some manner testified. And whereas the mysteries of the Gospel of Jesus Christ are more and more manifested, (praise be given to the high and lofty y Isa. 57.15. One which inhabiteth eternity, whose Name is holy) there is hope that the greatest measure of z Isa. 30.26. Rom. 11.12, 15, 26. light therein, foretold in the Writings of the Prophets and Apostles to be given by God in the last Time, shall shortly be enjoyed; * Nazianzenus oratione in laudem Cypriani habita. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, The Divine Wisdom knoweth, long afore to lay the foundations of great matters, and to procure contraries through the contraries, that It be also had in the more admiration. From my lodging in the Old-Baily. Yours ever respectively, E. R. To the unpartial Reader. IT is one of the Arabian a Prov. 8.8. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 In libro cui titulus, Proverbiorum Arabicorum centuriae duae. proverbs: Look not unto him that speaketh; but unto what he speaks. And the Holy Ghost saith: The wisdom which is from above, is without b Jam. 3.17. partiality. c Isa. 53.6. Isaiah writeth, That we all like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way. Now it is the will and commandment of God, (as d jer. 50.6. Jeremiah signifieth) That we should not pass our time in this world, going from mountain to hill, and forgetting our resting place; but (as it is taught in Ezechiel) our e Ezech. 34.14, 15. Fold should be upon the high Mountains of Israel: there to feed in a good pasture: also to f jer. 33.12. Zeph. 3.12, 13. lie down, as saith the lord. There have been some in these latter times, which by their writings endeavoured to promote Unity, because they saw it testified, That the multitude of them which believed, were of g Acts. 4.32. one heart, and of one soul. Also that the Apostle said: h 2 Cor. 12.18. walked we not in the same spirit? walked we not in the same steps? Yea Christ foretold, That there shall be i Joh. 10.16. See Mat. 9.36, 37, 38. 1 Cor. 1.10, 11, 12, 13. one fold, and one shepherd. And therefore so fervently prayed for his people, That they all may be k Joh. 17.11, 21, 21, 23. See 1. Cor. 12.12, 13. and 3.3, 4. one; as thou Father art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: That they may be one even as we are one; I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one. Let us therefore now duly consider, what Isaiah in his time delivered furthering unto godly Unity; the which doctrine also each of the l Mat. 3.2, 3. Mar. 1.1, 2, 3. Luk. 3.3, 4, 5, 6. Joh. 1.23. Evangelists in some manner rehearsed, as necessary for that time. And if we throughly weigh the said Oracle, we shall find it m Rom. 15.4. requisite to be considered by every one at this present. Moreover the Reader is to be admonished, that he do not n 2 Pet. 2.12. 2 Tim. 3.16, 17. condemn, what he understands not in this ensuing Treatise, remembering that S. Paul saith: o 1 Tim. 3.16, 17. See verse 9 Eph. 3.4. Col. 1.27. and 2.2. 1 Cor. 12.3. 1 Pet. 2.2. Without controversy great is the mystery of Godliness. Also afore any one can well judge concerning the most high Mysteries of the Gospel, he is first rightly to understand the p Heb. 5.12, 13, 14. and 6.1, 2. principles of the doctrine of Christ, as the Apostle signifieth unto the Hebrews. Who also gave the Corinthians for to know, that such as are but babes or little Children in Christ, Cannot q 1 Cor. 3.2. Joh. 16.12. bear the strong meat of the word. And if such of the first age in Christ, cannot r Gal. 4.1.2. Acts. 1.6, 7. 1 Cor. 2.6. comprehend all things belonging to the great mystery of Christianity; then how can those, which are not s Joh. 3.3. See Rom. 12.1, 2. changed in mind and conversation, according as the Gospel prescribeth, (or are not unfeignedly striving to attain the said change) judge rightly concerning the most high spiritual matters, seeing that it is written: t 1 Cor. 2.14. The natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness unto him; neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. The holy Prophet Daniel saith: u Dan. 12.10. Many shall be purified and made white, and tried: but the wicked shall do wickedly: and none of the wicked shall understand. * Ps. 25.14.9.12, 13. David saith: The Secret of the Lord is with them that fear him; and He will show them His covenant. The meek will He guide in judgement, and the meek will he teach His way. It is written, that the Disciples came unto Christ; x Mat. 13.10, 11. Isa. 8.16. Why speakest thou unto the Multitude in parables? He answered and said unto them, Because it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the Kingdom of heaven, but unto them it is not given. Who also said unto His Father: y Mat. 11.25.26, 27. See Joh. 8.31, 32. Wisd. 1.4. and 6.23. Sirach 3.19, 20. and 43.33. and 51.20. Dan. 9 13. Ps. 19.7, 8. and 119.98, 99, 100 Isa. 60.1, 2. Joh. 14 17. Thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes. Now these Scriptures are mentioned, that the Reader may duly consider, That no person how learned soever in Humane Literature, or in the history of Sacred Writ, which is not entered into the true Regeneration, can a Prov. 28.5. Mat. 19.28. rightly judge concerning the high things pertaining unto God. The Apostle Peter saith z 1 Joh. 2.29. and 4.7, 8. Joh. 3.3, 5, 6. Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the Scripture is of any private interpretation: for the prophecy came not in * See the marginal reading. any time by the will of man: but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the holy Ghost. And therefore the Apostle Paul saith: b 2 Pet. 1.20, 21. No man can say, (namely with true understanding) that Jesus is the Lord, but by the holy Ghost. Wherefore let us unfeignedly endeavour to become truly d 1 Cor. 2.15, 12. spiritual, and then (as the Apostle signifieth) we shall be able more and more to judge (or, c 1 Cor. 12.3. * As it is in the margin. discern) all things, which e 2 Pet. 1.3. pertain unto life and godliness. The holy and righteous Almighty Spirit, that filleth both heaven and f jer. 23.24. earth, g Joh. 16.13. guide us into all His truth eternal, that we may receive and enjoy all h 1 Tim. 4.8. Eph. 3.20, 21. comfort, which He vouchsafeth unto his Servants, now and everlastingly, through Jesus Christ. Amen. Edmund Reeve Bachelor in Divinity, and Instructor in all the Tongues pertaining thereunto. A way unto true Christian Unity. Isaiah 40.3, 4, 5. See concerning this reading of this Text, what is delivered afterward in this Treatise, and in the marginal annotations unto it. A voice crying: In the Wilderness prepare ye the way of the Lord, make strait in the Desert an high way for our God. Let every valley be filled up, let every Mountain and hill be cast down, and what is crooked let it be made strait, and the roughnesses become smoothness: and the Glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all Flesh shall see it together; for the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it. IT being written in the beginning of this Chapter, a Isa. 40.1, 2. Comfort ye, comfort ye my people, saith your God. Speak ye comfortably to Jerusalem, and cry unto her, That her * So is the Translation in the margin. appointed time is accomplished, that her iniquity is pardoned: for she hath received of the Lords hand double for all her sins. Then the said heavenly voice is uttered, to be considered most seriously, viz. In the Wilderness prepare ye the way of the Lord, The former part of the crying voice is a kind of figurative speaking. etc. The which crying voice from heaven unto us, is in the former part thereof a kind of Figurative speaking, signifying, That as if the greatest Emperor were to go into a Wilderness or desert, for to make his abode there, he would * As is expressed in Isa. 40.3, 4. expect such like preparation for his coming: So Christ in His spiritual coming to make his b Joh. 14.23: Mal. 3.1. Psa. 101.2. abode within His people, doth expect the like c Amos. 4.12. Isa. 64.4, 5. The said crying voice is a portion of Scripture of most special consideration. preparing to be made spiritually. Now this whole portion of Scripture, is as it were a sum even of all the general doctrine of the word of God. And therefore it is most diligently to be noted. Yea it is a * See Luke 11.52. In Mark. 1.1, 2. The said duty of preparation is signified to be the doctrine of the beginning of the Gospel of jesus Christ. And therefore it is most seriously to be minded. The late learned Casaubon said: Mysterium in hac historia à propheta Esaia. olim praedicta, et tanto studio à sanctis Evangelistis adnotata, latere aliquid majus suspicor, quam aut capere ipse satis, aut satis queam admirari. In annal. Baron exers. 136. The Title of the said portion of Scripture. key of true holy knowledge: for who so doth rightly apprehend the mind of the Lord signified in this Oracle, he shall thereby through Divine help be enabled much to perceive of the mystery, which is throughout the whole word of God. And that it may be the easier comprehended, let meditation be thereon in this order. First, to consider, for whom preparation is here prescribed to be made. Secondly, in what place it is to be. Thirdly, the mentioned particular works of the said preparation. And fourthly, the benefit which now comes in a true endeavour to perform the same. But afore entrance be into the explanation of these points, it is meet in brief to note the Title of this Fundamental Sacred Text. And literally according to the Hebrew it is, A voice crying, or, a crying voice, or, a voice of a Crier, the * The Hebrew accent over the word for Crier, maketh a comma: but the accent over the word for wilderness is said to be one of those which make an half Comma. point of Distinction being made at the word crying. For so it ought to be by virtue of the Hebrew accent unto the said word in the Original; * It is also so pointed or dissinguished in their Translation, Printed anno 1624. Mr. tindal in his Translation hath there made the distinction also. See the Translation used in the Reign of King Edward the sixth. as in the annotation on this place it is delivered, which is unto the translation set forth by Tremellius and Junius. Now this most great matter thus from Almighty God delivered by Isaiah, is called a voice crying, to wit, unto us in the name of the Lord, for to signify that every d Mar. 6.12. 2 Tim. 4.2. true Minister of Christ is a teacher of this Doctrine in effect, and fervently presseth the same. Also, as the Prophet Isaiah preached it, so did John the e Luk 3.3, 4, 5, 6. Baptist. Yea f Mat. 4.17. Christ and His g Acts 20.21. Apostles did in substance publish the same. It appeareth to be said Crying, because the world is fallen into a great h Isa. 56.10. Mat. 25.5. Luke 17.34. 1 Thes. 5.6.7. sleep of ignorance: yea innumerable lie i Eph. 2.1. 1 Pet. 4.6. dead in trespasses and sins. Whereupon God commandeth every of his Ministers, saying: k Jsa. 58.1. Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a Trumpet, etc. Also there is said: l Eph. 5.14. Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light. The first point▪ for whom preparation is to be made. Let us now consider the first point, namely, for whom preparation is here prescribed to be made. The Text saith, For the Lord, For our God. And the name here rendered m 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 See Shi nalerus and Buntorfias in their Lexicons. at 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Lord is observed to contain in it the signification Was, Is, Will be. And so in Rev. 1.8. and 4.8. even such an expression is delivered. And the name rendered n 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 ex 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, et 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 God, is noted to signify a Mighty Being: and is here considered also to have in it the signification of the blessed * Being, in the Text in the plural number. Trinity. And the word our being added thereunto, declareth Him to be the God, whom the holy Prophet enjoyed. And saith David. o Ps. 144.15. and 33 12. Happy is that people, whose God is the lord. Now that this Lord God may be continually with us according to His gracious p Exod. 33.13, 14, 15. presence, this Oracle instructeth us, what we for our parts are to do thereunto. But forasmuch q Isa. 1.3. Ezek. 8.12. Ps. 73.27, 28. few do understand, that the said presence may be enjoyed now, whilst we are in the body, in this life, and in this present world: it is necessary to endeavour for to help man's weak apprehension herein. God is every where, though most mind it not. There is no place, where He is not according to his Essence or immense Spirit. We are to believe, that thus God is. Heb. 11.6. Acts 17.27. Ps. 139. Nos verò omnibus [non modo factu sed etiam] cogitationibus et sermonibus nostris, tum nocta n●n interdiu Deum adesse scimus: Eumque et totum esse lumen, et quae in cordibus nostris latent videre. Athenagoras in legatione pro Christianis. Wherefore let there be first considered, that the eternal God (blessed for ever) according to His Essence, infinite spirit, or immense Being, is perpetually every where in the universal world. It is an ancient saying: Enter, praefemer, Deus heic, & ubique, potenter. He saith: r Isa. 66.1. Heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool. And, can any s jer. 23.24. See Acts. 7.49, 50. 2. Chro. 6.18. Isa. 43.2. hid himself in secret places, that I shall not see him, saith the Lord? Do not I fill heaven and earth, saith the Lord? There is also written: t Wisd. 1.7. The Spirit of the Lord filleth the world: and that which containeth all things hath knowledge of the voice. u Wisd. 12.1. Thine incorruptible spirit is in all things. Moreover according to the aforesaid manner he is continually within every one of us, although * Job. 9.11. Joh. 1.5. undiscerned by us. This incomprehensible God was unknown to the x Acts. 17.23, 27, 28. Prope Deus est, tecum est, intus est. Ita dico. Lucili, sacer intra nos spiritus sedet, bonorum malorumque nostrorum observator, et custos. Hic prout à nobis tractatur; ita et nos tractat ipse. Seneca ad Lucilium. Athenians; and therefore Paul preached Him unto them, and signified, That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him and find him, though he be not fare from every one of us. For in him we live, and move, and have our being. And David hath written almost a whole y Psa. 139. Psalm, for to teach, that the Spirit of God (God's presence) was continually with him, and that he could go no whither, where the Lord was not. And in conclusion he said: z verse 18. When I awake, I am still with thee. When one duly considereth, what hath operation within him, and becomes sensible, that in him somewhat a Col. 1.29. Prov. 1.23. Acts 7.51. moveth him towards the observing of the ten Commandments, and what else is that everlasting Law of Almighty God, he then thus awaked, saith with David: b Ps. 73.23. I am still with thee, O God; and thou art c Ps. 23.4. with me. It is written that Jacob being awaked out of his sleep at a certain time, said: Surely, the Lord is in this d Gen. 28.16. It is necessary to understand so fare forth as it is in Scripture expressed, what the eternal God is, according to His infinite Essence or being. place, and I knew it not. But that this first point may yet become more clear unto devout souls, namely, for whom preparation is now to be made, according to the doctrine of this heavenly crying voice, there is also to be signified in some wise, what the Scripture saith; That the eternal God is. And so the mind of man seeking the Lord, may be introducted to see (though as through a glass) the e Isa. 33.17. King in his beauty; and to behold the Land that is very fare off, as Jsaiah speaketh. The Lord Jesus Christ having said to the woman of Samaria, f Joh. 4.23, 24 See 2. Cor. 3.17, 18. and the marginal reading there. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. God is Spirit. The hour comes, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in Spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him, declareth, That God is a Spirit, and that they which worship him, must worship him in Spirit and in truth. Where he teacheth us, that God is Spirit. S. John saith: This than is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is g 1. Joh. 1.5. God is Light. Light, and in him is no darkness at all. He also saith: Beloved, let us love one another; for love is of God: and every one that loveth, is borne of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not, knoweth not God; for God is h 1. John. 4.7, 8, 16. God is Love. love. God is love, and he that dwelleth in love, dwelleth in God, and God in him. So that here is plainly expressed, what God is, namely, that he is Light and Love. Now that this most blessed Spirit of light and love, may have his gracious presence in us, to his i Prov. 8.31. delight, and our unexpressable k Deut. 10.13. good, His said crying voice is unto us, that we in our wilderness and desert do prepare a way, and make strait a path for Him. Now the second point is to be considered; to wit, The second point, In what place to prepare the way of the lord. in what place the preparation is to be made. The Text saith, In the wilderness, in the desert. And what a spiritual wilderness or desert is, it may appear out of the Apostles words unto the Ephesians, describing what they were, before they became l See Rom. 1.5. and 16.26. Acts. 6.7: obedient unto the Faith. He saith unto them, m Eph. 2.12. that at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world. But he describeth a worse wilderness, in that his exhortation, where he saith: n Eph. 4.17, 18, 19 This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that ye henceforth walk not as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind, having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God, through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart: who being past feeling, have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness. Now it is to be considered, how man and woman are become such wildernesses and deserts, whereas in the beginning they were created glorious o See Cantic. 8.13. and 5.1, and 6.2. and 4.12. gardens for the lord. Solomon saith: p Eccles 7.29. Lo, this only have I found, that God made man upright: but they have sought out many inventions. It is said in Genesis: When the woman saw, q Gen. 3.6. that the tree of knowledge of good and evil was good for food, and that it was pleasant unto the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took thereof and did eat, and gave also to her husband with her, and he did eat. Then became they to be r Gen. 3.7. Rom. 3.23. naked in soul, and came short of the glory of God: They from being afore God's gardens and paradises, now became to be wildernesses and deserts. And that every one of mankind growing up in this world, and fast abiding in the fall, not truly endeavouring to enter into the change of mind and life prescribed and required by the Gospel, for to proceed duly in the same, is a s Jsa. 32.15, 16. Jer. 4.26. Gen. 6.5. Rom. 3.12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18. wilderness and a desert, it needeth no confirmation with many Texts, being acknowledged and confessed even by all. The Hebrew word for wilderness is observed to signify a place remote from speech or talk. And in a settled spiritual Wilderness there is scarf any gracious speech heard. Yea Christ saith: t Mat. 12.34.35. How can ye being evil speak good things? For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh. The Wilderness within man, which ought to be prepared, is the heart: My son, saith God, u Prov. 23.26. give me thine heart. It is said concerning Rehoboam, That he did evil, because he prepared not his * 2. Chron. 12.14. heart to seek the lord. But whereas the Holy Ghost doth here use two words, wilderness and desert; and the Hebrew word for desert, hath in it the signification of x. In Ps. 68.4. in the plural number. heaven, may it not intimate the superior faculty in man, the understanding or the mind? And then by wilderness may also be meant the inferior faculty in man, the will or the affections. Jeremiah speaking concerning many in his time, saith: My people is foolish, they have not known me; they are sottish children, and they have no understanding: they are wise to do evil, but to do good they have no knowledge. I beheld the earth, and lo, it was without form and void: and the y jer. 4.22, 23. heavens, and they had no light. In which place also the word heaven appeareth to signify man's mind or understanding. The z Heb. 4.12. Luke. 1.46, 47. Isa. 26.9. Scripture hath in sundry places the expression of soul and spirit to be in man. But saith the Apostle to the Thessalonians: a 1. Thess. 5.23. The very God of peace sanctify you wholly: and I pray God, your whole spirit, and soul, & body, be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. Preparation is to be made thereunto in the whole man: and as inwardly, so outwardly also. And to the Corinthians he saith, b 1. Cor. 6.19.20. The Vulgar Latin Text there hath Glorificate & portate Deum in corpore vestro what know ye not that your body is the Temple of the holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are Gods. Now the next point is to be considered, The third point The manner of preparing the way of the Lord in us. the manner of preparing. And it is first expressed in general, as, Prepare ye the way, make strait an high way. And then the works of the said preparation are expressed in particular, as namely; to exalt (or, fill up) every valley, etc. The Hebrew word rendered prepare ye, is observed for to import also, to c See Schindlers Lexicon. remove impediments, to void away out of sight uncleannesses, etc. The Lord by Malachi saith: d Mal. 3.1. Behold, I will send my Messenger, and he shall prepare the way before me: and the Lord whom ye seek, shall suddenly come to his Temple. And the Apostle having said unto the Corinthians: e 2. Cor. 6.16 Ye are the Temple of the living God, as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them, etc. addeth this counsel: Having therefore these promises (dearly beloved) let us f 2. Cor. 7.1. cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God. So that the preparation doth much consist in g 1. Joh. 3.2, 3. Heb. 12.14. purification of mind and life. Also whereas it is said withal, make strait an high way: and in S. John's Gospel the whole work of preparation is but thus expressed, h Joh. 1.23. Make strait the way of the Lord, as said the Prophet Esaias; the Arabic interpretation of the said verb there, is not unworthy of some observation. It saith * 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Make the way of the Lord easy. The said Arabian verb is interpreted also, to make plain and convenient. So that for Christ's spiritual coming into us for to dwell in us, to walk within us, See the Lexicon of Raphelengius to solace himself in us, and to work all his works of grace within us, we are admonished to endeavour, that his entrance and passage may be all manner of ways delightsome unto him. An expressing of the preparation in particular, namely in 4. sundry great works. It followeth, that the particular works of the preparation be considered: and they are expressed in four great duties. But first, it is to be noted, That in an ancient I That which was in use in the Reign of King Edward the sixth. See tindal's Translation. See the note of Lucas Osiander on this Text. See Isa. 57.14. Luke. 3.5. with Baruck 5.7. The first work of the preparing. Translation of the Church the verbs thereof are rendered Imperatively; the which interpretation appeareth most proper, for that these four matters are the duties in special of those two in general, namely, prepare ye the way, make ye strait an high way. And the first work of the preparing is, that every valley be exalted or filled. And a spiritual valley within us is want or defect of somewhat, which ought to be in us toward receiving revelation of the glory of the lord. It is said k Heb. 11.6. He that comes unto God, must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that seek him diligently. So that unbelief appeareth to be a valley, and is to be lifted up or filled up with belief. l Luke 24.25. We are to believe every word of God to be perfect truth, according to his mind signified therein, though we for the present do not understand it. It is the praise of m Rom. 4.17, 18, 19, 20, 21. Abraham, that against hope he believed in hope, that he might become the father of many nations: according to that which was spoken, so shall thy seed be. But it was a dispraise to many of the Jews, that they believed not sundry things written in the Law of the Lord, of which unbelief Christ taxed them, saying: Had ye believed Moses, n Joh. 5.46, 47. ye would have believed me: for he wrote of me. But if ye believe not his writings, how shall ye believe my words? We are also to believe the o Gal. 6.7. 1 Cor. 6.9, 10. Deut. 29.19, 20. threaten mentioned in God's word, aswell as the promises: because the Lord is as true in the executing of them, according as he hath denounced them, as he is in the vouchsafing of the other. Such unbelief ought not to be in us, for that it is written; p Heb. 3.18, 19 The children of Israel could not enter into the Lords rest because of unbelief. Another valley within man is ignorance. q Mat. 22.29. Christ said unto the Sadducees. Ye do err, not knowing the Scriptures nor the power of God. The Lord saith by Hosea: r Hos. 4.6. My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: because thou hast rejected knowledge, I will also reject thee, that thou shalt be no Priest to me: Seeing thou hast forgotten the Law of thy God, I will also forget thy children. Wherefore the Gospel's commandment is to be timely considered viz. s 1. Pet. 2.1, 2. That we laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and evil speakings; as newborn babes to desire the sincere milk of the word, that we may grow thereby. Also not to continue still t 1. Cor. 14.20. See the Marginal reading there. children in understanding; howbeit in malice to be children; but in understanding to become men, perfect, or of a ripe age; u Heb. 6.1. 2. Cor. 13.9. Rev. 3.2. Deut. 18.13. Gen. 6.9. Going on unto perfection, as is the exhortation unto the Hebrews. And forasmuch as Christ hath said: * Joh. 12.48. The word which I have spoken, the same shall judge us in the last day; therefore (as saith the Apostle) let the x Col. 3.16. word of Christ dwell in us richly in all wisdom. There is also the valley of fearfulness, namely of being fearful to begin and proceed in that, which God hath commanded to be done, and wherein he hath willed us to be y 1. Cor. 16.13. Eph. 6.10, 13. 1. Cor. 15.58. Heb. 6.11, 12, of a good courage. Such defect was in the children of Israel being in the wilderness, when as they were to have gone on courageously toward the promised land flowing with milk and honey, in confidence of attaining possession thereof through the help of Almighty God, they then became fearful and faint-hearted upon reports which some had made, as if the said land were not attainable. Yea some said, z Num. 13.31. We be not able to go up against the people, for they are stronger than we. The children of Israel then fell into murmuring and a Num. 14.2.11.12. disobedience, and so became to be in great peril of Gods destroying of them. The Lord having said in the Revelation: b Rev. 21.7, 8 The second work of the preparing. He that overcommeth, shall inherit all things, I will be his God, and he shall be my son. But the fearful (namely, to enter into the spiritual warfare, as it is enjoined by the Gospel of Christ) and the unbelieving, etc. shall have their part in the lake, which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death. The second work of preparing is, To make low every mountain and hill. And what such mountains and hills are, it is manifest out of the Apostles words, where he saith: Though we walk in the flesh, c 2. Cor. 10.3, 4, 5, 6. we do not war after the flesh: (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds) casting down imaginations, and every high thing, that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ: and having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience, etc. There is d 1. Pet. 5.5. Job 41.34. Prov. 13.10. Isa. 2.11, 12, 17. 2 Tim. 3.2, 5. a necessity imposed on us, for to strive against all manner of pride, which the spirit of Satan, or our own flesh and blood may raise up within us. It is Christ's saying: e Mat. 18.3. Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the Kingdom of heaven. And then afterwards signifieth, That we are to f verse. 4. humble ourselves as they do. The Lord saith by Habakkuk: g Hab. 2.4. Behold, his soul which is lifted up, is not upright in him. Jeremiah saith: h jer. 48.29.11. We have heard the pride of Moab, (he is exceeding proud) his loftiness, and his arrogancy, and his pride, and the haughtiness of his heart. Moab hath been at ease from his youth, and he hath settled on his lees, and hath not been emptied from vessel to vessel, neither hath he gone into captivity: therefore his taste remained in him, and his scent is not changed. And therefore * See the whole Chapter. sundry judgements are denounced against Moab. The spiritual mountains and hills within us, will with Divine help become laid lower and lower, if we duly consider the doctrine of these Scriptures following, and of such like: As, i 1 Chron. 28.9. And thou Solomon my Son, know thou the God of thy father, and serve him with a perfect heart, and with a willing mind; for the Lord searcheth all hearts, and understandeth all the imaginations of the thoughts, if thou seek him, he will be found of thee: but if thou forsake him, he will cast thee off for ever. Also that of S. Paul to the Corinthians: k 2. Cor. 5.10, 11. We must all appear before the Judgement seat of Christ, that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad. Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men. Moreover that saying of S. Peter: l 1. Pet. 1.17. If ye call on the Father, who without respect of persons judgeth according to every man's work, pass the time of your sojourning here in fear. Also, David's words: Lord, m Ps. 131.1, 2. mine heart is not haughty, nor mine eyes lofty: neither do I exercise myself in great matters; or in things too high for me. Surely I have behaved and quieted myself as a child, The third work of the preparing. that is weaned of his Mother: my soul is even as a weaned child. The third work of preparing is, to make strait that which is crooked. David saith: n Psal 125.4, 5. Phil. 2.15. Prov. 2.15. Do good, O Lord unto those that be good: and to them that are upright in their hearts. As for such as turn aside unto their crooked ways, the Lord shall lead them forth with the workers of * See concerning equity and iniquity, what is said in 2. Tim. 2.19. Mat. 7.7. Jsa. 16.5.12. 1 Joh. 2.29 and 3, 10. iniquity: but peace shall be upon Israel. So that crookednesses appear to be a kind of works of iniquity. Now the ten Commandments are said to be the Rule of a Christian life: and therefore whatsoever actions are contrary to the Moral Law contained in them, are judged to be crooked; 1 Cor 6.9. Mat 7.22, 23. Luk 13.25, 26, 27. Jsa. 28.17. Leu. 6.2, 3, 4, 5 Psal 119.1, 3, 6. Deut 22.1, 2, 3. Micha 6.6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13. Luke 19.8. Job. 20.18. Mat. 5.23, 24, 25, 26. as also whatsoever are contrary to the said Royal Law contained in any part or portion of God's universal word. Moreover as all unjustness is crookedness, so is all unholiness. And therefore two Scriptures are necessary to be continually remembered, unto the making strait of whatsoever is crooked; namely, that of David: Blessed are they that keep judgement, and he that doth righteousness at o Psal. 106.3 all times. Also that of Peter: But as he that hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in p 1 Pet. 1.15, 16. all manner of conversation, because it is written: Be ye holy, for I am holy. And God is holy perpetually. The fourth work of preparing is, The fourth work of the preparing. to make plain or smooth the roughnesses. And hereby is signified whatsoever is not q See Col. 1.10. 1 Joh. 3.22. pleasing to the spirit of Almighty God. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. Luke 3.5. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 in planitiem. vide Lex. Buxt. It is the Gospel's commandment: r Eph. 4.30. That we grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby we are sealed unto the day of Redemption. And therefore where the Apostle delivereth this precept, he intimateth sundry roughnesses to be put away, saying: s Verse 31. Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice. And, t Verse 29. Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. There is as it were a little Looking-glass made by the Apostle, wherein every one may see much concerning spiritual * Prov. 18.23. roughness, for to discern it, and to put it away: namely, in the Epistle to the Philippians, it being said: u Phil. 4.9. Finally, brethren, Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are * or venerable; as it is rendered in the margin. honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things: Those things which ye have both learned and received, and heard and seen of me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you. It is the saying of the Lord by his holy Prophet David: To him that * Ps. 50.23. and 84.11. ordereth his conversation aright, will I show the salvation of God. And whereas the heavenly crying voice is, That every valley should be exalted or filled up, and every mountain and hill made low, etc. It appeareth therefore profitable, to mention here together sundry valleys, mountains and hills, crookednesses and roughnesses, which are in divers places of the Gospel expressed, to the end that whosoever endeavoureth preparation of the way of the Lord within him, may perceive many of them, and may take notice of all other, wheresoever signified elsewhere in any place of holy Scripture. Because being steadfast, unmoveable, always x 1. Cor. 15.58. Valleys, mountains and hills, crookednesses & roughnesses reckoned up many together promiscuously, for to introduct a devout person to take notice of them, and of all other signified by any holy Scripture. See 2. Esdras. 16.50. abounding in the work of the Lord, they shall know that their labour is not vain in the Lord, as the Apostle declareth unto the Corinthians. The Holy Ghost doth oftentimes in many places of the Bible reckon up many such matters together, to the end we may the more clearly know, what qualities, conditions, properties, inclinations, affections, passions, natures, humours, infirmities, and such like, we are to strive against. All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works. The Lord Jesus Christ saith. y Mark 7.20, 21, 22, 23. That which comes out of the man, that defileth the man. For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness: All these evil things come from within, and defile the man. The Apostle saith unto the Galatians: Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these, z Gal. 5.19, 20, 21. adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, envyings, murders, drunkenness, revel, and such like, of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things, shall not inherit the Kingdom of God. He writeth to the Ephesians, saying: a Eph. 5.3, 4, 5 6. But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh Saints: neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks. For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous one who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the Kingdom of Christ and of God. Let no man deceive you with vain words: For because of these things comes the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience. There is written elsewhere against b Col. 3.4, 6, 7, 8, 9 Isa. 63.8. Rev. 21.8. and 22.15. inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, all manner of lying, c Rom. 12.9. dissimulation d Rom. 1.29, 30, 31, 32. debate, deceit, whispering, backbiting, brawling, despitefulness, inventing of evil things, covenant-breaking, disobedience to parents, voidnes of natural affection, * See the Margin of Rom. 1.31. unsociablenesse, unplacablenes, unmercifulness, malignity, fullness of envy, voidness of understanding wherein knowledge should be, e 2. Tim. 3.2, 3, 4. self-love, unthankfulness, * Philemon. 19 forgetfulness of good turns bodily or ghostly, corruptness, * Judges 9.16, 17. Wisd. 14.25, 26. Tit. 2, 10. unfaithfulness, disorders in marriages, f jer. 4.24. Sirach. 16.23. thinking upon vain things, or imagining follies, false accusing, incontinency, fierceness, headiness, g 2. Tim. 3.2, 3, 4, 5, love of pleasure more than God, having a form of godliness but denying the power thereof, h Prov. 28.4. Ps. 15.4. neglecting of loving those that are good, i 1. Cor. 6.9, 10. effeminateness, reviling, extortion, k Ps. 15 4. So the Hebrew word there doth import. Ps. 15.3. See also the margin there. Exod. 23.1. See there the Margin also. biting usury, ˡ receiving reproach against ones neighbour afore it be duly examined, and the truth of the report be known, m Prov. 8.13. an evil way, a froward mouth, n 1. Pet. 3.8. uncourteousnesse in speaking or doing, o Rom. 13.8. owing any thing to another and not endeavouring according to ability for to make p Luke. 19.8. Mat. 18.29. satisfaction, q Mat. 5.37. swearing in Communication, r 2. Kings. 2.23, 24. Luke. 16.14. mocking, s Sir 19.4. Eph. 4.14. and 3.17. light-mindednesse, t 2. Cor. 1.17. jer. 23.32. Prov. 7.10, 11, 12. lightness in behaviour, in speaking or doing; u Prov. 12.10. cruelty towards man or any other creature, * Rom. 12.11. slothfulness in business, x Ezech. 16.49. 2 Thess. 3.8, 9, 10, 11, 12. idleness, gluttony, not strengthening the hand of the poor and needy, y Isa. 1.17. Psa. 72.4. jer. 21.12. not endeavouring to help such unto their right, z Col. 4 5. Eph. 5.15, 16, 17. Prov. 14.33. misspending the time, a jer. 22.13. using another's service without wages, b 1 Sam. 25.11. 1 Pet. 4.9 Sir. 14.10 niggardliness, c Jam. 1.27. neglect of visiting the fatherless and widows in their affliction, d Mat. 25.35, 36. of giving meat unto the hungry, of giving drink unto the thirsty, of hospitality toward strangers, of clothing the naked, of visiting and comforting the sick what may be, of going to the imprisoned for to minister unto them what comfort is requisite, e Rev. 3.15, 16. Rom. 12.11. lukewarmness in duties toward God or man, f Jam. 1.6, 7, 8. 1 Cor. 15.58. unconstancy in goodness or truth, g Col. 3.2. Phil. 3.19. setting one's heart on earthly things, h Gal 5.26. provoking others unto anger, i jude. 16. Gal. 4.17. Jam. 2.1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6. 1 Cor. 1.12. and 3.4. overvaluing some and undervaluing others, k Rom. 13.7. and. 12.10. not giving to every one his due honour, l Ps. 50.17. Luke. 7.30. hating to be instructed, m Hab. 2.6. Luke. 12.20, 21. 1 Tim. 6.10, and 3.3, 8. Eph. 5.5. Phil. 3.19, 8. making it the chiefest care and delight to lad himself with thick clay, (as speaketh the Prophet) viz. earthly wealth, n 1 Sam. 15.23. 2 Thess. 1.8. 1 Pet. 4.17. stubbornness, o Joh. 7.49. 1 Cor. 8.1, 2. 1 Tim. 6.20, 21. Col. 2.8, 18. vaunting in humane or historical knowledge of holy Scripture; p Mal. 1.6. Leu. 19.32. Ps. 89.7. 1 Pet. 2.17. unreverence toward God or man, q Tit. 3.2. speaking evil of others, r 1. Pet. 2.23. and 3.9. Acts. 24.14. Jam. 4.11. Gal. 5.15. Judas 9, giving others reproachful names or terms, s Deut. 16.19. taking of bribes, t jer. 9.23. glorying in bodily strength, in natural wit, in earthly riches or worldly power, u Jam. 1.4. and 5.10, 11. Job. 2.9, 10. unpatience, * Rom. 12.14. cursing, x Rom. 13.4. and 12.19. Acts. 4.29. avenging ones self when as it may be forborn, or should be referred unto the Magistrate or Almighty God, y Isa. 5.7 Zech. 7.10. oppression, z Jonah. 3.8. Zeph. 3.4. violence, a 1. Thess. 4.6. See Margin. overreaching another in any matter, b Exod. 20.7. Sirach. 23.9, 10. mentioning lightly the name of God or any of his word, not endeavouring to have in continual remembrance His presence, d Luke. 6.27. not showing due love to ones enemies, e Pro. 10.12. discovering of others infirmities, f Prov. 11.13. and 17.9. revealing of secrets which may lawfully be concealed, g Mat. 7.12. Luke 6.31. not endeavouring in every particular to do unto another, as he would have another to do unto him, h 1. Cor. 10.7. Jam. 5.5. 2 Pet. 2.13. 1 Pet. 4.3, 4. sitting down to eat and drink, and rising up to play, not having a due fellow-feeling of others * Amos. 6.6. 1 Cor. 12.25, 26. sufferings, i 1 Joh. 5.21. Eze. 14.3, 4, 7. all worshipping of idols outward or inward, k Isa. 58.9. Mat. 12.36, 39 speaking of vanity, l Isa. 33.15. beholding any evil with delight, not abstaining from m 1 Thess. 5.22. all appearance of evil, giving n 1. Cor. 10.32. offence unto any, o Jos. 22.12, 16, 18, 19, 20. taking of offence upon no just ground, p Eccles. 5.2. Ps. 112.5. rashness, q Phil. 2.4. looking only to the good of ones own self, r Eph. 6 4. Gen. 18.19. neglect of educating children and servants unto the learning and obeying of all the Gospel's commandments, s Tit. 3.14. See the margin there. 1 Cor. 7.24. 1 Pet. 2.12. Deut. 16.20. neglect of studying the duties of ones particular vocation, an t 1. Cor. 8.2. and 12.3. and. 3.18. 1. Tim. 6 3, 4. high esteeming of one's own conceived knowledge in spiritual matters afore he be truly regenerate, a u Phil. 2.3. 1 Pet. 2.17. 2 Cor. 8.12. Mat. 22.39. setting light of any others gifts how small soever, which he endeavoureth well to use; * Leu. 26.21. See the margin there. Proceeding in any matter at all adventures, and not endeavouring to have God's Word for x Prov. 3.5, 6, 7. Isa. 8.20. Ps. 119.9. Gal. 6.10. rule in every action, y Luke. 14.41. neglect of alms giving, neglect to learn and practise z Rev. 3.3. Ps. 119.6. every christian virtue, or to become more and more a new creature in the a 2. Cor. 5.17. Rev. 21.5. 1 Thess. 5.23. 2 Cor. 4 16. Prov. 4.18. whole inward man, and in the outward conversation. The holy Scripture discovereth very many more defects, excesses, enormities, and imperfections in the mind and life of mankind, all which * jer. 7.5. Lament 3.40. 2 Esdras. 16.50. Prov. 22.6. Joh. 4.23. The fourth point, the benefit which now comes to the true preparers, according to the crying voices prescription. Four things to be considered in the handling of the fourth point. throughly to search out it is our bounden duty, yea to begin from our very youth this worshipping of God in spirit and in truth. The fourth point is the benefit, which now comes in a true endeavour to perform the aforesaid preparation. The Text saith: And the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together. Now unto the understanding hereof there are four things to be considered. First, what the glory of the Lord here mentioned is. Secondly, where it shall be revealed. Thirdly, who shall behold it. And fourthly, in what manner it shall be seen. Concerning the first, what the glory of the Lord is, which is here promised to be now revealed unto such, as prepare a way for the God of b Ps. 135.2. Eph. 2.21, 22. Jacob to have an habitation within them, it is manifest out of S. Luke to be meant the eternal Son of God. For the Evangelist hath expressed the promise with these words: And all flesh shall see the c Luke. 3.4. Salvation of God. By which name Salvation Simeon also called Christ, where he saith: d Luke. 2.30, 31, 32. For mine eyes have seen thy Salvation, which thou hast prepared before the face of all people: a Light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel. For Jesus Christ according to His eternal Divine Nature is the supreme heavenly light, e Joh. 10.30. equal with God his Father. The Apostle expresseth him to be the f Heb. 1.3. Wisd. 7.26. brightness of the Father's glory. And it is written in S. John, That he is the true light g Joh. 1.9. which lighteth every man that comes into the world. Who also in every age past hath according to His Godhead appeared in some manner unto holy souls, as Micah signifieth, where he saith: h Micah. 5.2. Whose go forth have been from of old, from the days of eternity. And concerning the said spiritual coming for to continue whiles the world doth endure, our Saviour Himself also testifieth, saying: i Joh. 14.23. If any man love me, he will keep my words; and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. The Deity or Godhead of Christ is by an ancient k Justinus Martyr in dialogo cum Tryphone Judaeo. Father thus declared: 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. That is, In the beginning (or, first of all) afore all creatures God begat out of his own self a certain rational Virtue (or reasonable power) which also is called by the Holy Ghost the Glory of the Lord, sometimes a Son, sometimes Wisdom, sometimes an Angel, sometimes God, sometimes the Lord, and the Word. Moreover here by the Glory of the Lord there may be understood also the Image of the glorious God, consisting in godly understanding, righteousness and true holiness. The Apostle saith: All have sinned, and come short of the l Rom. 3.28. glory of God, or of his image. And therefore he exhorteth, That we put on that new man, which after m Eph. 4.24. God is created in righteousness and true holiness: and is renewed in knowledge, n Col. 3.10. after the image of him that created him. And whereas it is said by God: o Num. 14.21. As truly as I live, all the earth shall be filled with the glory of the lord. And again: p Hab. 2.14. The earth shall be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord, as the waters cover the Sea. And in another place: q Isa. 11.9. The earth shall be full of the knowledge of the Lord, as the waters cover the Sea. Therefore all r 1. Cor. 2.10. See all Baruch 5. knowledge of God and his will revealed in his word, may here be included also, that it shall be more and more revealed unto his obedient people. The second thing to be considered. Secondly, There is to be considered, where the glory of the Lord shall be revealed according to this promise. And whereas it immediately followeth, That all flesh shall see it together, it appeareth that the said Revelation is within man. The Apostle saith: s Gal. 1.15, 16. See concerning the Mystery of God in man, Wis. 7.22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28. When it pleased God, who separated me from my mother's womb, and called me by His grace, to reveal His Son in me, that I might preach Him among the Heathen, etc. And afterward he saith: They glorified God t verse 24. in me. To the Romans he writeth: For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time, are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed * Rom. 8.18. in us. Peter also intimateth it, where he saith: v 2. Pet. 1.19. until the Daystar arise in our hearts. Which Star truly is the glory of the Lord, Christ according to His Divine nature, as Himself saith: I Jesus am the bright and Morning * Rev. 22.16. star. Peter also signifieth where the Revelation of Christ is, in that counsel given unto women, concerning whom he saith: x 1. Pet. 3.4. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Whose adorning let it be the hidden man of the heart. It is in the Syrian Text: Adorn yourselves with the Son of man the hidden one of the heart. And that Christ becomes to be within his people, according to his Spirit, is often declared in the writings of the Apostles. S. Paul said to the Corinthians: y 2. Cor. 13.5. Col. 1.27. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates? The Gospel teacheth, that God the z Eph. 4, 6. Father is in his people, likewise God the a Col. 3.11. Son, and also God the b 1. Cor. 6.19. and 3.16. and 2. Cor. 6.16. Rom. 8.9, 11. Holy Ghost: Hence it is said: c Ps. 45.13. The King's daughter is all glorious within. d Luke. 17.21. The Kingdom of God is within us. e 2. Cor. 4.6. God who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God, in the face of Jesus Christ. There is thirdly to be considered, The third thing to be considered. Who shall behold this glory of the lord. The words of the Text are, All flesh. And this is not meant concerning universal humane flesh, but only of that, which beareth in it the true circumcision the fear of the lord. It is said in Ezechiel; f Ezechiel. 36.26. I will give you an heart of flesh. And the Chaldee interpretation there is to this effect, 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Et dabo vobis c●rtimens coram me ad faciendum voluntatem meam. That it is such an heart as is in awe of God, and is inclined to do his will. Also in a most ancient book of the Jews, there is a saying concerning what presently followeth circumcision, which being understood of the circumcision of the heart, is a very memorable sentence: 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 g Zohar. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 That is: We have learned, that at what time soever, wherein a son of man shall be marked with the holy signature of this sign; from thence he after some manner seethe God, and the holy soul becometh united with him. But Christ's words do make the matter plain, where he saith: He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and h Joh. 14 21. manifest myself unto him: So that saying unto the true Jerusalem; Arise, be enlightened, for thy light is come, and the i Isa. 60.1, 2. glory of the Lord is risen upon thee. For behold, the darkness shall cover the earth, and gross darkness the people, but the Lord shall arise upon thee, and his glory shall be seen on thee. S. Paul expresseth the matter, showing how God is perceived by his people, saying: k 2. Cor. 3.18. But we all with open face, beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the lord. A soul l Ezech. 18.21. repenting for all the sins which it hath committed, and m Luke. 13.24. striving to observe obediently n Ps. 119.6. Luke. 1.6. all Gods everlasting commandments, o Gal. 3.23. Heb 10.36, 37. at length attaineth to have a p Phil. 1.9. See the Marginal reading. Heb. 6.4, 5. feeling of the holy Spirit working q Eph. 3.20. Col. 1.29. within it: and the r Eph. 1.18. The fourth thing to be considered. eye of the understanding being enlightened, it perceiveth what is the hope of His calling, and what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the Saints. The fourth matter to be considered, is the manner or (if it may be so expressed) posture, wherein all shall see the revealed Glory of the Lord, which labour in the work of due preparing the way of the Lord into them. And it is said, Together. But the Hebrew word thereof seemeth to import as much as to say s See Schindlers Lexicon and buxtorf's Sintaxis. Every one together. Also the same word in a certain Psalm is interpreted for to signify Unity; as where it is said: t Ps. 133.1. Behold, how good and how pleasant it is, for brethren to dwell together in unity. Whereas therefore the promise is, that all truly holy ones shall see together or in unity, it declareth that Gods revealing of his heavenly light extendeth unto Unity, unto the bringing of all and every one of them into Christian unity of mind and understanding, and also into uniformity of life and conversation, namely, to be more and more of the mind and life of Jesus Christ. For it is written: u Phil. 2.5. 1 Cor. 2.16. Let this mind be in you, which was in Jesus Christ. And it is also written: * 1 Joh. 2.6. He that saith, he abideth in him, ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked. And to endeavour for to be in such Unity was the profession of the ancient ones in the house of God, as it may appear from what is said, namely: Walked we not in the x 2 Cor. 12.18. same Spirit? Walked we not in the same steps? Yea also S. Luke recordeth, y Acts. 4.32. That the multitude of them which believed, were of one heart, and of one soul. It is the promise of God to bless his obedient people with the spirit of Unity. He saith: And I will give them z Jer. 32.39. one heart, and one way, that they may fear me for ever, for the good of them, and of their children after them. He saith also: a Jer. 31.33, 34 I will put my Law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts, and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. And they shall teach no more every man his neighbour, and every man his brother, saying, Know the Lord: for they shall all know me, from the least of them unto the greatest of them, saith the lord. Also saith Christ: b Joh. 17.22. And the glory which thou gavest me, I have given them, that they may be one, even as we are one. Furthermore, as there is c Zeph. 3 9 Zech. 14. ●. Jer. 32.39. 2 Cor. 12.18. Unity in observing the duties of the Moral Law contained in the Ten Commandments; so is there also Unity in the most holy d Judas 10. Tit. 1.1. faith of Gods elect. The Apostle saith, There is e Eph. 4.5. one faith. And he hath these words: f Eph. 4.13. Till we all come into the Unity of faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ. And as all which truly endeavour to make preparation of the way of the Lord within them, according as it is prescribed by the aforesaid heavenly crying voice, shall see more and more the g 1 Tim. 3.9. mystery of the Christian faith, and what the true Christian h Joh. 8.12. Mal. 4.2. See wisd. 5.6. life and conversation is, unto the increase of godly Unity; so such as are i Eph. 4.3. studious of all holy Unity, shall partake of the greatest measure of heavenly light, which God now communicateth unto his servants. It is said in the Book of Chronicles: k 2 Chron. 5.13, 14. It came to pass, as the trumpeters and singers were as one, to make one sound to be heard in praising and thanking the Lord: and when they lift up their voice with the trumpets and cymbals, and instruments of music, and praised the Lord, saying, For he is good, for his mercy endureth for ever: that then the house was filled with a cloud, even the house of the lord. So that the Priests could not stand to minister, by reason of the cloud: for the glory of the Lord had filled the house of God. So it is said in the Acts of the Apostles: l Acts 2.1, 3, 4, And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord (or, with one mind) in one place. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost. Then did God m Acts 2.16, 17, 18. pour out of his Spirit upon all flesh; namely, on all ages and states, as on old persons and young persons, on sons and daughters, on servants and handmaids: and in great abundance on his Apostles, who had n Acts. 1.4. waited for the promise, and had kept in Jerusalem, Which (saith David) is builded as a City, that is o Psal. 22.3. compact together; or, (as some translate) which is at unity in itself. For where brethren dwell together in unity, p Psal. 133.3. Where there is such concord: us saith the Geneva note. The Ratification of this oracle. there (saith he) the Lord commandeth the blessing, even life for evermore. There remaineth also, that something be said concerning the Ratification of this Oracle, which is contained in these words, For the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it. The which words are added for to assure us, That our labour in the work of the Lord shall not now be in q 1 Cor. 15.51. vain, our true endeavouring for to perform the aforesaid preparation shall not be unconsidered. For God (saith the Apostle) is not unrighteous to r Heb. 6.10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15. Mat. 10.41, 42. Ps. 19.11. Heb. 11.26. forget your work, and labour of love, which ye have showed toward His name, etc. And we desire that every one of you do show the same diligence, to the full assurance of hope unto the end: That ye be not slothful, but followers of them, who through faith and patience inherit the promises. For when God made promise to Abraham, because he could swear by no greater, He swore by Himself, saying, Surely, blessing I will bless thee, and multiplying I will multiply thee. And after he had patiently endured, he obtained the promise. Whereas it is said, For the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it, it giveth us to consider, that a mouth hath uttered it, which s Tit. 1.2. cannot lie; and that the Almighty, holy, & righteous eternal Spirit hath promised it, which is t Eph. 3.20. able to perform it: Who hath promised many spiritual blessings to be inherited in the life that u 1. Tim. 4.8. now is: according as His Divine power hath given unto us all things, that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him (as S. Peter * 2. Pet. 1.3, 4. saith) that hath called us to glory and virtue: whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises, that by these ye might be partakers of the Divine Nature, having escaped the corruption, which is in the world through lust. That (as the Apostle writeth unto the x Eph. 1.12, 13, 14. Ephesians) We should be unto the praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ: in whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the Gospel of your Salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise, which is the earnest of our inheritance, until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory. And as the Lord Jesus Christ saith: y Mar. 10.29, 30. There is no man that hath left house, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my sake and the Gospels, but he shall receive an hundred fold now in this time, houses, and brethren, and sisters, and mothers, and children, and lands, with persecutions; and in the world to come eternal life. Moreover, it is to be observed, that these words [for the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it] being so often used in holy Scripture, What the mouth of the Lord signifieth. do in special manner note forth unto us the power and truth of God, upon which we may build, and ground ourselves, and be secure or z See of Heb. 11.1. the marginal reading confident, that what duties we for our parts are to endeavour, are a Ps. 19.7, 8. Deut. 4.6, 7, 8. perfect wisdom to be done, and that the benefit signified to be received in the doing of them, is most sure and certain. It is said in Ezechiel: * Ezech. 37.13, 14. And ye shall know that I am the Lord, when I have opened your graves, O my people, and brought you up out of your graves: And shall have put my Spirit in you, and ye shall live, and I shall place you in your own land: then shall ye know that I the Lord have spoken it, and performed it, saith the lord. And to conclude this point, there is observed to be understood by these words [The mouth of the Lord hath spoken] Such a more inward manifesting and communicating of the Divine will, as whereby matters were made known unto Moses, as it is written: With him will I speak b Num. 12.8. mouth to mouth apparently. For so Isaiah framed not out of his own mind this crying voice; (as Jeremiah saith, That the false Prophets do speak a vision of their own heart, c jer. 23.16. and not out of the mouth of the Lord) but it being presented unto him by God, he received it; and having received it, wrote it in his prophecy. Also hence (as was afore noted) the truth and certainty of the Divine promise is showed, That God who hath promised to reveal his heavenly and spiritual light, unto every person truly repenting according to the crying voices doctrine, will perform it so as it may be seen of every one in the d Eph. 4.3. Acts. 2.1, 2, 3, 4. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 ab 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 unanimis; ex 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 similis, idem, & 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 animus, quibus est idem animus, Pasor. Mat. 18.19, 20. Ps. 89.5. unity of the holy Spirit of the lord. And an example of all may be that in the Acts of the Apostles, That when some which had been spiritual wildernesses and deserts, & had heard Peter's Sermon, they were e Acts. 2.37, 38, 41, 42, 44, 46. pricked in their hearts, and said unto Peter, and to the rest of the Apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptised every one of you in the name of jesus Christ, for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. Then they that gladly received his word, were baptised: And they continued steadfastly in the Apostles doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. And all that believed, were together, and had all things common. And they continuing daily with one accord in the Temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness, and singleness of heart, praising God, and having favour with all the people. Now also having by Divine assistance thus explained the Fundamental portion of holy Scripture, there are to be declared Seven Uses, Seven Uses, whereunto the heavenly crying voice is profitable. The first use is unto Doctrine. whereunto it is profitable. And the first is unto Doctrine. For this heavenly crying voice teacheth, that every one of mankind is under one of the three spiritual states signified in this Oracle; namely, under Desolation, Preparation, or Revelation. Whiles one is a wilderness and desert, he is in the state of desolation: when one beginneth and proceedeth in f 1. Joh. 3.3. jer. 4.14. Isa. 1.16. purifying of himself, he is then in the state of preparation: and he that hath the Glory of the Lord revealed unto him in some measure and manner, is in the state of Revelation. Concerning the two first states there is no doubt made. Only question is about the third mentioned state. Question or doubt only is about the third mentioned state. And that there is such a distinct condition spiritual, it may appear out of these Scriptures following. S. Paul testifieth concerning some of the Colossians and Ephesians, that which is to the same effect, where he writeth, saying: g Col 1.12, 13. Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the Saints in light: who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the Kingdom of his dear Son. He hath h Eph. 1.3. blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ. i and 2.6, He hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus. David at last entered hereinto, when as he said: Return into thy k Psal. 116.7, 8, 9 rest, O my soul, for the Lord hath dealt bountifully with thee. For 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. It is said in the Apostle unto the Hebrews: We which have believed l Heb. 4.3. do enter into rest. S. Paul attained at length to say: m 2 Tim. 4.7. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith. For they which fight manfully against sin, the world, and the Devil, do through the Divine Spirit n Phillip 4.13. Rom. 8.13. strengthening them, o 2 Cor. 10.4, 5 beat down and overcome vice, so as that sin p Rom. 6.12. reigneth not in their mortal body, that they should obey it in the lusts thereof: but through Jesus Christ they being q Luke 1.71, 74, 75. delivered out of the hand of all enemies, they serve God without fear, in holiness and righteousness before him all the days of their life. The said third state is the r 1. Cor. 13.11. and 14.20. manly age in Christ: It is that which they enjoy, whom S. John calleth s 1 John. 2.13, 14, 20, 27. 1 John 1.3, 1● Fathers. It is that state, wherein God is in some measure found and enjoyed. A place in the Canticles maketh it plain, where it is said: It was but a little that I passed from them, Some at length in this world do attain to find God, and to enjoy him in some measure, and manner. but I t Can. 3.1, 2, 3.4 Isa. 55 6. jer. 29.13, 14. found Him whom my soul loveth: I held him, but I would not let him go, until I had brought him into my mother's house, and into the chamber of her that conceived me. A time was, when Job said concerning God: u Job. 9.11. Lo, He goeth by me, and I see him not: he passeth on also, but I perceive him not. But at length he attained to say: * Job. 42.5. I have heard of thee by the hearing of the ear: but now mine eye seethe thee. It is said in the book of Chronicles, That x 1 Chron. 26.5. See the marginal reading there. Zechariah had understanding in the visions of God. It is also written that S. Steven being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up steadfastly into heaven, and y Acts. 7.55, 56. saw the Glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God, and said, behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God. And such a spiritual sight he had, whiles he was living in His body, some certain time afore his death. It is testified concerning Zacharias and Elizabeth his wife, z Luke. 1.6. That they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless. The second use for Refutation. A second Use is for Refutation of opinion in many, who think that their minds can be well enough now, without endeavouring as this heavenly crying voice prescribeth. And therefore they will not a Ps. 10.4, 6. Ps. 14.1. etc. Job. 21.14, 15. and 22.17. Mal. 3.14. Wisd. 2.21. See all Wisd. 2. For it describeth, what the mind and life of Atheists is. meddle with any such meditation. Can the soul of any one be in a comfortable state, which continueth a wilderness or desert, having the b 1 Cor. 2.12. 2 Cor. 4.4. Eph. 2.2. 2 Tim. 2.25, 26. Luke 11.21, 22 24. spirit of the World (Satan) reigning with his power therein? The Apostle saith: c Rom 6.16. Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are, to whom ye obey? Can such be in a safe condition, which will pass their time (as the Apostle saith: ᵈ without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world? Hath not Christ said, But those mine enemies, which would not that I should e Luke. 19.27. reign over them (or have my kingdom of grace f Luke. 17.21. The third use for correction. within them) bring hither and slay them before me. A Third use is for Correction of most persons, which pass their time in this world, not minding this one necessary thing, namely, to be now an habitation for the mighty God of Jacob. O what pains do most take all their life long, some in one humane g jer. 9.23, 24. learning, some in another; some in the h Ps. 39.6. Hab. 2 6. getting or i 1. Tim. 6.10. Luke. 12.19. loving of worldly wealth, some in following their own k 1. Cor. 10.7. 2. Tim. 3.4. Job. 21.13. See the marginal reading there. earthly pleasures; others in l Col. 3.2. Phil. 3 19 The Summum Bonum in this world. setting their hearts on other matters, according to their several affections, and neglect the Summum Bonum the Sovereign or Supreme good in this present world, to wit, the m 1. Joh. 1.3, 4. and 4.16, 17. Eph. 3.19. and 4.13. Song. 3.4. Joh. 14.21, 23. enjoying of God's gracious presence within ones soul, n Gen. 5.22. Micah. 6.8. walking with God, o 1 Cor. 6.17. Joh. 17.21. joining to the Lord, and becoming one spirit with him. The Apostle saith: p Rom. 8.9. If any one have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his. Of whose Spirit the fruit is q Gal. 5.22, 23, 24. love, joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: and it is in r Eph. 5.9. all goodness and righteousness, and truth. They which are wholly for s Col. 2.8. Acts 17.18. humane learning, or for the t 2. Tim. 3.5. Mat. 23.2, 3. and 5.20. jer. 22.16, 17. 1 Joh. 2.3, 4. Gen. 3.6. mere historical knowledge of what is contained in Divine writ, that they may proceed so fare therein as is possible, and do make such understanding their glory, and endeavour to have it for the greatest contentment of the mind, are not in the right, they have not the u Prov. 9.10. Job. 28.28. Ps. 111.10. and 119.98, 99, 100 perfect wisdom. For it is the Gospel's doctrine: * 1. Cor. 13.1, 2. See the Geneva Translation of 1. Cor. 13.2. and the Greek Text. Though I speak with the tongues of men and of Angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling Cymbal. And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not Charity, I am nothing. It is said also else where: x 1. Joh. 4.7, 8 8, 16. Deut. 4.6, 7, and 32.29. and 5.29. 1 Cor. 8.3. Joh. 15.10, 14. Let us love one another; for love is of God: and every one that loveth, is borne of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not, knoweth not God, for God is love. God is love, and he that dwelleth in love, dwelleth in God, and God in him. And what the said lovers nature and properties are, it is plainly expressed in the thirteenth chapter of the first Epistle to the Corinthians, where sixteen qualities thereof are reckoned up, that there may be no mistake concerning the charity or love, which the holy Gospel prescribeth and requireth. The fourth use for instruction. A fourth use is for Instruction; That seeing our Creator willeth, that we z Ps. 119.166, 174. 1 Pet. 1.13, 14, 15. 1 Thess. 1.10. 1. Cor. 1.7, 9 zealously endeavour the aforesaid preparation, and then wait for the Revelation there promised; that we a Jer. 7.5. Lam. 3.40. Consider the importance of the Hebrew Text. See Junius his Translation thereof throughly search and try our ways, and turn home quite unto the Lord, as Jeremiah maketh exhortation. Wherewithal (saith David) shall a young man b Ps. 119.9. 2 Cor. 13.5. 1 Thess. 5.21, 22. cleanse his way? By taking heed thereto, according to thy word. We are therefore to consider all the word of the Lord, for to see what valleys, mountains and hills, crookednesses, and roughnesses it doth discover to be in us, that so with help of his holy Spirit, we may put them all away more and more. We are also often to pray as David did: c Ps. 63.1, 2, 8. We are to pray continually for Gods help hereunto. O God, Thou art my God, early will I seek thee: My soul thirsteth for thee, my flesh longeth for thee in a dry and thirsty land, where no water is; to see thy power and thy glory, so as I have seen thee in the Sanctuary. My soul followeth hard after thee. d Ps. 143.10. and 25.5. Teach me to do thy will, for thou art my God, Thy Spirit is good: lead me into the Land of uprightness. * Ps. 43.3. O send out thy light and thy truth, let them lead me, let them bring me unto thy holy Hill, and to thy Tabernacles. The said work of preparation is not to be deferred. Moreover, the said work of preparing a way for the Lord to come into us, is not to be deferred until old age, or until there be peril of death or of some great misery; but as the Holy Ghost saith: e Heb. 3.7, 8, 13, 15. To day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts as in the provocation, in the day of temptation in the wilderness. The Apostle there saith: Exhort one another daily, whiles it is called to day, lest any of you be hardened through the the deceitfulness of sin. Continual observation declareth a certain counsel to be wholesome, which saith: f Sirach. 5.7. Deut. 29.10, 21. Rom. 2.4, 5, 6. Ps. 119.59, 60. 1 Thess. 5.2, 3. Maledictus qui florem juventutis suae diabolo, et faecem senectutis Deo reservat, Augustinus. Make no tarrying to turn unto the Lord, and put not off from day to day: for suddenly shall the wrath of the Lord come forth, and in thy security shalt thou be destroyed, and perish in the day of vengeance. g Isa. 55.6. Isaiah saith: Seek ye the Lord, while he may be found, call ye upon him, while he is near. Christ saith: h Luke. 13.25, 26, 27. When once the master of the house is risen up, and hath shut to the door, and ye begin to stand without, and to knock at the door, saying, Lord, Lord; open unto us, and he shall answer, and say unto you, I know ye not whence ye are: Then shall ye begin to say, We have eaten and drunken in thy presence, and thou hast taught in our streets. But he shall say, I tell you, I know you not whence you are; depart from me all ye workers of iniquity. Hosea saith: i Hos. 5.6. They shall go with their flocks, and with their herds to seek the Lord: but they shall not find him, he hath withdrawn himself from them. Wherefore the counsel written by jeremiah is still to be considered, to wit: k jer. 6.8. Be thou instructed, O Jerusalem, lest my soul departed from thee: lest I make thee desolate, a land not inhabited. The fift use is unto patience. A fift Use is unto patience, which (as S. James saith) l Jam. 1.4. ought to have her perfect work, that we may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing. The Apostle saith unto the Hebrews: m Heb. 10.36, 37. Ye have need of patience, that after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise. For yet a little while, and he that shall come, will come, and will not tarry. S. James also saith: n Jam. 5. 7,8. Be patiented therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord: behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and the latter rain. Be ye also patiented, establish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh. S. Paul saith unto Timothy: o 2 Tim. 2.3, 11, 12, Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. It is a faithful saying: If we be dead with him, we shall also live with him. If we suffer, we shall also reign with him. There must be a time of p jer. 4.3, 4. Hos. 10.12. Micah. 4.3. 2. Tim. 2.6. See the marginal reading there. ploughing, sowing and weeding, afore there can be a time of reaping and mowing. He saith unto the Hebrews: Let us q Heb. 12.1, 2. lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus the Author and Finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him, endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. Who also saith: To him that r Rev. 3.21. overcommeth, will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his Throne. A sixth use is unto Comfort. The sixth use is unto consolation. If we lay to heart that whole crying voice, and faithfully endeavour to perform the four prescribed works of preparation; though presently from wildernesses and deserts we become not such gardens and paradises, as we ought to be; yet let us remember the counsel of the Apostle: s 2 Joh. 8 Heb. 10.35. Look to yourselves, that we lose not those things which we have wrought, but that we receive a full reward. God Almighty will stretch forth his t Ps. 118.14, 15, 16. and 17.7. 1 Pet. 5.10. right hand over us, he will stay us up and strengthen us. I will (saith the Lord) u Ps. 32.8. instruct and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye: For (saith Isaiah) the Lord shall comfort Zion: He will comfort all her waste places, and he will make her * Isa. 51.3. and 31.15, 16, 17, 18. The Seventh use of the heavenly crying voice is to show the way unto true Christian unity, among all rightly fearing God. Concordia sustinemur, discordia pessum imus. Anonymus. wilderness like Eden, and her desert like the garden of the Lord: joy and gladness shall be found therein, thanksgiving and the voice of melody. The prophet hath written even a whole chapter, namely, the five and thirtieth, for the consolation of such as do prepare the way of the Lord into them. The seventh use of the said Oracle is, to show the way unto Christian Unity, among all that truly fear God. But among some of mankind Unity cannot be: for saith the Apostle, x 2 Cor. 6.14, 15. What fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ with Belial? Or what part hath he that believeth, with an unbeliever? Solomon saith: An unjust man is an abomination to the just: and he that is y Prov. 29.27. See Sirach 13.15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20. Prov. 13.10. upright in his way, is abomination to the wicked. He also saith, * Prov. 28.4. Who be the true fearers of God. They that forsake the Law, praise the wicked: but such as keep the Law, contend with them. Moreover, all are not true fearers of God, which say that they are right fearers of Him. And therefore it is to be mentioned, whom only the Scripture signifieth to fear God rightly and truly. David saith: z Psa. 119.1. See the ancient Translation of the Church, as also the Hebrew Text. See Sirach. 2, 15, 16, 17. Blessed is the man that feareth the Lord, he delighteth greatly in his commandments. That is the sure and certain mark, whereby every true fearer of God may be discerned from all other persons. Also Solomon declareth, what is the fear which God accepteth, where he saith: a Prov. 8.13. The fear of the Lord is to hate evil: pride, and arrogancy, and the evil way, and the froward mouth do I hate. Now among all such endued with such fear of God, there is possibility of b 1 Joh. 5.1, 2, 3. 2 Joh. 1.2. Ps. 119.63, 74. Luke. 15.7, 10. Christian Unity, and that they will c Isa. 11.12, 13. and 25.7, embrace whatsoever may further them unto agreeing in the truth of the Lords holy word, and unto the living in all godly love. And although among many, which in a d 1 Cor. 3.1, 3. What is promised by God shall be, ought not to be accounted impossible. Zech. 14.9. good measure make conscience of their ways, there is so great difference in understanding and affection, as that it is by some conceived impossible, that they may by any means come into an holy concord; yet a saying of Christ may be thought on, which is: e Luke. 18.27. The things which are impossible with men, are possible with God. It is f Ezech. 37.1. etc. written that Ezechiel was set in the midst of a valley full of dry bones: and it was said unto him, can these bones live? And he answered, O Lord God, thou knowest. But he prophesying as he was commanded, there was a noise, and behold a shaking, and the bones came g verse 7. In the aforementioned ancient Translation of the church, in Ps. 68.6. There is read: He is the God, that maketh men to be of one mind in an house. together, bone to his bone. There was then a great beginning of Unity. Let us most seriously consider, what saith the heavenly crying voice, That the Glory of the Lord shall be revealed unto all preparers of his way, and they shall see it together: for the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it, who hath power to perform, whatsoever he promiseth. Isaiah saith elsewhere: h Isa. 54.13, All thy children shall be taught of the Lord, and great shall be the i The said word in sense implieth Unity. peace of thy children. Great unity will be among all those, which are led by his holy Spirit and Word, for his Spirit leadeth into all k Joh. 16.13. Acts. 5.32. Eph. 4.3. 1 Cor. 12.13. truth such as unfeignedly strive to yield due obedience unto all the commandments of Christ's holy Gospel. The wisdom of the God of heaven made use of this l jer. 8.22. Balm of Gilead (the crying voice) when great difference was in the Church of the Jews: and it with his Divine m 1 Cor. 3.6. blessing cured a great many. It was John the n Luke. 3.3, 4, 5, 6. Baptists doctrine: yea o Mat. 4.17. Mar. 1.14, 15. Luke. 4.18, 19 Christ and his p Mar. 6.12. Acts. 20.21. Luke. 13.3, 5. Apostles in effect did use it in their preaching. O into what an unity it brought the true fearers of God, which were in q Acts. 2.1, 38, 41, 42, 46, 47. Jerusalem and the land of Jewrie! And so how it wrought among the Gentiles, witness all the r Col. 2.1, 2, 5. Churches of them unto whom the Apostles wrote Epistles: Also the same efficacy by the assistance of Divine grace, will it now take among all such, as will make due use of it, as it did in those days of old. For saith the Scripture, Behold, the Lords hand is not s Isa. 59.1, 2. shortened, that it cannot save, neither his ear heavy, that it cannot hear. But your t jer. 5.25. Ps. 66.18. iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not hear. The Virgin Mary said: u Luke. 1.51. He scattereth the proud in the imagination of their hearts. But his Son gathereth together into * Joh. 11.52. one the children of God, that are scattered abroad, as even Caiphas prophesied. Yea unto Unity worketh God the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost; x Eph. 1.10. It is to be noted, That as in the beginning man and woman were created in unity with God; so Holy Scriptures use is to direct us for to draw nigher and nigher unto the same. Hence it is, that Christ prayed so fervently for his people concerning their true Christian unity See Joh. 17.11, 21, 22, 23.26.13. That (as S. Paul saith) in the dispensation of the fullness of times, he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth, even in Him. Moreover, that the receiving of heavenly light into the understanding doth further unto unity, it may appear from a similitude. If a company be in a dark room, where is very little light, and it hath a table whereon is much money, A Similitude for to show, that the true heavenly light, wheresoever it appeareth, doth further unto true Christian unity. gold and silver, and some counterfeit coin be among the same; If they be willed to take only all the currant money, and thereunto to advise each with other for the better judging of the same; and also be promised increase of benefit, according as every one taketh most of the said coin with none of the counterfeit. Will there not arise some difference among them, concerning some pieces of the money? Will there not be some conjectures amiss, because they judge for the most part by supposing or imagination, & not by clear sight? But if a window be opened unto them, and they have the true day light, will not then the case be otherwise, and all former dissent in opinion about the said coin much cease? So is it with us mankind: so long as we abide fast in the fall of Adam, y Isa. 60.2. jer. 4.22, 23. 1 Joh 2.9, 11. gross darkness covereth us, as Isaiah signifieth. Yea S. Paul told the Ephesians, that they were sometime z Eph. 5.8. Prov. 4. 1●. darkness. And the Prophet also speaking concerning such, saith: a Is. 59.10. We grope for the wall like blind, and we grope as if we had no eyes: we stumble at noonday as in the night, we are in desolate places as dead men. The b 1 Cor. 2.14. natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. The Lord Christ saith: The c Joh. 14.17. 1 Joh. 5.19. 2 Cor. 4.4. Spirit of truth the world cannot receive, because it seethe him not, neither knoweth him. Great is our spiritual darkness, manifold are our mistakes about the things of God. Yea also we much differ in opinion concerning such matters. But when as we hear the heavenly d In Isa 40.3, 4, 5. crying voice, and attend thereunto; when we open the e Rev. 3.20. Ps. 24.7, 8, 9, 10. door of our hearts, and receive the f Eph. 3.16, 17. 1 Cor. 14.25. Gal. 2.20. Col. 3.11. and 1.27. 2. Cor. 13.3. Spirit of Christ thereinto, He will then g Eph. 5.14. 2 Cor. 4.6. 2 Pet. 1.19. Prov. 28.5. Phil. 1.9, 10, 11. Ps. 112.4. give us light; he will open unto us such a spiritual window, and let such a measure of true heavenly light shine into us, as that we shall judge more and more rightly concerning all things pertaining unto Godliness. Also former differences among us will more and more cease, and the unity of the Holy Spirit will inwardly and outwardly among us increase. Another Similitude for to show, how among all well-affected, the true Christian unity easily increaseth. Hear also another similitude. Even as in an household, where all the servants do faithfully mind the performing of every command of their master, and one to help another for the fulfilling of the same, will there be any dissension among such? Or if any should chance through any mistake, will it not soon cease, for that none seeketh himself, but every one only his master's benefit and credit? So among all those, whose * The mind of mankind for the fare greatest part, hath as it were lost itself, in that it considereth not the mark which the Creator hath prescribed unto it. only aim it is, that our heavenly Masters will may be done here on earth, h Mat. 6.10. Rom. 12.2. Eph. 5.17. 1 Thess. 4.3, 4, 5, 6.7. as it is in heaven; and * The said mark, at which to aim continually, and whereon to mind always in every particular matter, is in brief signified in the afore quotations. Mat. 6.10. Eph. 5 17. thereunto do endeavour what may be, to help and set forward one another, will there be any discord among such? Or if any difference doth chance, will it not soon be composed, when as none seeketh his own honour or by-respects, but only the honour and glory of God; None the doing of his own will and mind, but only the doing of Gods i Deut. 29.29. Acts. 13.22. Joh. 1.12, 13. 1 Pet. 4.1, 2. Mat. 3.15. Col. 1.25. revealed will in every thing. Such fellow-servants will still remember, What is enjoined by the Gospel, where it is said: k Gal. 6.1, 2. See Phil. 2.1, 2, 3. Brethren, if any man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such a one in the spirit of meekness, considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted. Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the Law of Christ. Now hear some causes, why such difference is among some zealous persons, And the saying is; That when causes do cease, the effects will cease more and more. It is a great cause of difference, where there is minded but l 1 Cor. 13.4, 5, 6, 7, 8. Causes of difference among many religious persons. The first mentioned cause. part of Christ's Gospel, and not the whole. Many only mind what Christ hath done for us; but nothing or very little what he m Mat. 23.23. Micah. 6.8. Rom. 8.12, 13. Mat. 5.20. Rom. 8.4. Luke. 13.3, 5. Mat. 18.3. Luk. 14.26, 27, 33. Job. 3.5, 6. and 12.24, 25, 26. requireth to be done by us. It is true, we ought to learn every particular matter mentioned in any holy Scripture, concerning what the Lord Jesus Christ hath done for his Church, and to understand the same according to the mind of God. But withal we are also to learn every particular duty, which is taught in any place of the holy Gospel, and with help of his holy spirit to strive for to perform every of the same. n Joh. 15.14. Saith not Christ, Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you? Did he not charge his Ministers to teach all nations, for to observe o Mat. 28.20. all things, whatsoever he hath commanded? Is not he the Prophet to be heard in p Acts. 3.22, 23. all things whatsoever he shall say unto us? * In all ages there hath been much unity among all persons, which have aswell minded every duty in life and conversation, which the Gospel prescribeth, as the matters which it signifieth to be believed. It is still observed, that there is much unity among all such, as mind aswell what the Gospel teacheth to be done, as what is to be believed: but among such as mind only points of faith, and do neglect the matters concerning life and conversation prescribed therein, the discord is much and manifold. It is written, that the Angel of the Lord said unto the Apostles: q Acts. 5.20. Joh. 10.10. and 12.50. Go, stand and speak in the Temple to the people all the words of this life. Which giveth us to understand, that true Christianity for a great part consisteth in matter of life and conversation. The Holy Ghost saith: r Jam. 1.27 Pure Religion, and undefiled before God, and the Father, is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world. The * It is in the ancient larger notes called the Geneva one's See 1 Cor. 4.20. Rom. 14.17. Rom. 2.6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 13. 1 Joh. 3.18, 19 Geneva note thereon is: The true service of God standeth in charity toward our neighbours (especially such as need others help, as the fatherless and widows) and purity of life. The parenthesis being left out, the sentence is: The true service of God standeth in charity toward our Neighbours, and purity of life. Micah saith: s Micah 6.8. See the marginal reading there: also the Geneva Translation of that verse. The second mentioned cause of difference. Whereas many take no notice of the benefits, which the Scripture signifieth, that the truly godly do enjoy now in the body, within their souls and minds, hence is it, that they hope for no such spiritual blessings now, neither endeavour the prescribed preparation for them. And so setting not the said spiritual mark before them, for to aim thereat, & to approach nearer and nearer unto it, they come not into such a comfortable measure of Christian unity, as others do. See Job. 22.21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29. And the marginal readings there. See 2 Cor. 6.16, 17, 18. and 27.1. Rev. 2.7, 17, 26, 27, 28. and 3.5.12. He hath showed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee; but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to * 1 Cor. 6.17. humble thyself for to walk with thy God.. Another cause of so much difference is, That many bear not in mind the mark, at which they should now aim, and hope for to attain unto in this life and world: For the Apostle signifieth, That Godliness hath aswell promises, benefits and blessings t 1 Tim. 4.8. now to be enjoyed, besides what hereafter unto all eternity. And for that those spiritual comforts are not now pressed hard after, minds become divided and u jer. 50.6. Isa. 53.6. scattered fare apart. If archers go forth to shoot, and every one shooteth which way soever he adventureth, their arrows do commonly fall down fare apart: but if they all do aim at one and the same mark, then are they all found about the mark, though some nearer to it than other. It is a mark whereat we should now aim, to be joined * Eph. 2.6. showeth an high degree in Christian unity, whereunto some of the Ephesians had through Divine grace then attained unto the Lord, and so to become one spirit with him, as fare forth as he now vouchsafeth unto his servants; If then I, thou, he, and innumerable more become so one spirit with him, what discord can long continue between us then? The neglect therefore of the study of attaining now Union with God's holy Spirit is a cause of so much variance among many, which yet notwithstanding have some good affections and laudable beginnings. But all Worldlings bear the mind of x Num. 23.10. Balaam. They would willingly die the death of the righteous ones, and that their last end be like theirs; but whiles they live in bodily health and outward prosperity, they are willing to retain within them the spirit of the world, and to y Acts 7.51. shut out of their hearts the spirit which is of God. They consider not on that saying of the Gospel: * If we would have our souls long to prosper in our bodies, let us not now shut out of our soul's God the Spirit of heavenly light and of heavenly love. Prov. 8.31. If any one have not the spirit of Christ, he is none of his. Wherefore Solomon signifieth; That Christ's Spirit now on earth dwelleth in his gardens, as it is written: a Cant. 8.13. The third mentioned cause of difference, which ceasing, true Christian concord will daily increase. Thou that dwellest in the Gardens, the companions harken to thy voice: cause me to hear it. The third cause (and that a great one) why there is such difference in affection among many, is because that, which our Creator (blessed for ever) hath ordained to be the bond and tie of his people together, z Rom. 8.9. is by many neglected or not duly endeavoured; and that is Charity, namely, the Charity which the Gospel hath expressly delivered. The Apostle saith unto the Colossians, having exhorted them unto sundry great virtues: b Col. 3.14. 2 Thess. 1.3. 1 Thess. 3.12. Above all these things put on Charity, which is the bond of perfectness. And if it is the bond and tie of the highest matters in Christianity, is it not likewise the bond and tie of all inferior matters therein, c Eph. 4.15, 16. Col. 2.19. Heb. 10.24, 25. 1 Thess. 2.7, 8. Joh. 13.34, 35. 2 Joh. 6. That from the very Infancy in Christ there may be a comfortable growing up unto the eldest age, which is in Him and through Him. If the sheaves of a field be not tied up together, how can they be well brought home into the barn? So among whomsoever the said bond or tie ordained by the eternal Wisdom, is not put on, how can there be a good growing up together into the Christian unity? S. Paul declared it to be his great d Or conflict. See the marginal reading of Col. 2.1. care; even for all professing Christianity, That their hearts might be comforted, being e Col. 2.2. And in verse 5. he showeth the power or effect of the said knot, saying: Though I be absent in the flesh, yet am I with you in the spirit, joying and beholding your order, and the steadfastness of your faith in Christ. knit together in love, etc. He giveth it also for a rule for every particular action in this world, where he saith: Let all your things be done with f 1 Cor. 16.14. charity. And hereon saith D. Lucas Osiander, that famous Writer: Sixteen properties of Charity expressed in 1 Cor. 13.4, 5, 6.7, 8. Omnium actionum nostrarum moderatrix debet esse charitas, Charity ought to be the moderatresse (or ruler) of all our actions. The Holy Ghost thus describeth charity, saying: Charity suffereth long, and is kind: charity envieth not: charity vaunteth not itself (or, is not g So is the marginal reading of 1 Cor. 13.4. rash,) is not puffed up, doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil, rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in (or, h So is it in the marginal reading. See 1 Pet. 4.8. Prov. 10.12. Song 8.6, 7. with) the Truth. Bears (or, ⁱ covereth) all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things. Charity never faileth. There is delivered lately concerning charity, that which is very considerable, viz. k In page 67. of the book entitled, The nature of Truth its union and unity with the soul. Printed anno 1641. Doth not the Apostle, doth he not most truly, most pathetically cry out? Though I had the gift of prophecy, and knew all secrets, all knowledge, yea, if I had all faith, so that I could remove mountains, I were nothing; I were as sounding brass, and a tinkling Cymbal, if I have not charity. When all these excellencies meet in a Christian, as haply they may; yet it is charity that maketh him l See 1 Joh. 4.7, 8.12, 16. and 1 Cor. 13.1, 2, 3. what he is, and the other beings are but as phalerae, as trappings which give an handsome set off, but not a being to a Christian. m In page 68 of the aforesaid book. Love is lovely in God's eye, He is styled the God of Love, the God Love. And in another place, the Scripture affirmeth, that in this we have fulfilled the will of God, if we love one another; for by n Here is declared, whereby union with God is, according to 1 Joh. 4.16. The fourth mentioned cause of difference. this we are made one with God, and so dwell in true light. The fourth and last cause, which shall be mentioned at this present, why there is so much difference among many, is, for that so few have any care at all to understand their own way; and that the most addict themselves to judge one another's way. The Holy Ghost saith: The wisdom of the prudent is to o Prov. 14.8. understand his way. p Verse. 12. There is a way that seemeth right unto a man: but the end thereof are the ways of death. q Prov. 12.15. The way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto counsel is wise. David said: r Ps. 119.24. See The margin there. Thy Testimonies are my delight, and men of my counsel. Now the counsel of the eternal Wisdom is, That whoso would be a Disciple of Christ or a true Christian, he do first of all betake himself to s Mat. 7.5. cast out the beam out of his own eye; because than he shall see clearly to cast out the mote out of his brother's eye. Also to t Mat. 16.24. deny himself. To become a u 1 Cor. 3.18. fool, that he may be wise. To * Luke. 14.26, 33. hate his own life, and to forsake all that he hath (all his Laodicean x Rev. 3.17, 18. riches.) To follow Christ in the y Mat. 19.28. Regeneration: To z 1 Cor. 4.5. judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts: and in his particular a Joh. 14.23. spiritual coming will guide into b Joh. 16.13. all truth. To do nothing through strife or vainglory, but in lowliness of mind each to c Phil. 2.3. esteem other better than themselves; and not to think every one to be in the wrong, which differeth from him concerning some ceremonial matter or the like. To shun all d 2 Tim. 3.2. self-love. e Ezech 36.31. and 20.43. See. 2. Cor. 7.11. To remember ones own evil ways, and his own do that were not good, and to loath himself in his own sight for his iniquities, and for his abominations. To consider that the f jer. 17.9. heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: and therefore to g Prov. 4.23. keep it with all diligence. Not to h Prov. 3.5, 6, 7. lean unto ones own understanding: but in all one's ways to acknowledge the Lord, and he will direct one's paths. Not to be wise in ones own eyes: but to fear the Lord, and to departed from evil. To i Jam. 1.26. Isa. 58.9. Mat. 12.34, 36, 37. Eph. 5.4, 5, 6. bridle one's tongue: because his Religion is vain, and not the true Christian, which doth not unfeignedly endeavour that duty; as the Holy Ghost hath pronounced. Now when as one hath duly judged his k 1. Cor. 11.31. own self by God's l Psa. 119.9. 2 Tim. 3.16, 17. Rom. 15.4. universal word, and understood his m Isa. 53.6. own way to be not right, Then will he pray with David: n Ps. 139.23, 24. Led me in the way everlasting. For in walking in that o jer. 6.16. old path, that good way, (wherein all the servants and people of God since the Creation have walked, there comes rest unto ones soul. He will also confess with Paul, that of sinners he is p 1 Tim. 1.15. chief. He will q Mat. 18.33. have compassion on his fellow-servant, even as the Lord hath had pity on him. He will not pray for r Luke 9.54, 55, 56. fire to come down from heaven, for to consume every one that doth not presently receive Christ. But will remember the Gospel's commandment: The servant of the Lord must not strive; but be s 2. Tim. 2.24, 25, 26. gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patiented: In meekness, instructing those which oppose themselves, if God peradventure will give them repentance, to the acknowledging of the truth: And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the Devil, who are taken captive by him at his will. Also to t Tit. 3.2, 3. 1 Pet. 2.17. speak evil of no man, to be no brawler, but gentle, showing all meekness unto all men. For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another. Also to u 1 Thess. 3.12. pray for to increase and abound in love one towards another * Due notice is to be taken of this Duty enjoined by the holy Gospel. and towards all men, even as did the Apostles towards the Thessalonians. He will then continually think upon that great commandment of the Law and Gospel, that * James. 2.8. Gal. 5.14. Rom. 13.8, 9, 10. Royal Law, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. * What here followeth is aright to be understood, so as it may make against no everlasting Law of God. It is meant concerning one's brother or neighbour, endeavouring at lest to live in all common civility. But if any one do contrary thereunto, the magistrates sword is to be considered. See Rom. 13.1, 2, 3, 4. To have a care to work none ill unto one's neighbour, but unfeignedly to wish, and to endeavour (what may be) that all good, and all comfort, and all content may come unto him, which one would unto his own self, in every particular case of this present world. He will then see, that every one void of the charity, which the Gospel prescribeth and requireth, (or doth not truly endeavour unto the x Col. 3.14. putting on of the same) is not in the Right. For the Holy Ghost pronounceth: He that saith he is in the light, and hateth his brother, y 1 Joh. 2.9, 11. is in darkness even until now. He that hateth his brother, is in darkness, and walketh in darkness, and knoweth not whither he goeth, because that darkness hath blinded his eyes. He that loveth not, z 1 Joh. 4.8. knoweth not God, for God is love. a verse 20. If any man say I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar. For he that loveth not his brother, whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen? The holy Prophet Malachy saith: b Mal. 2.10. Have we not all one Father? Hath not one God created us? Why do we deal treacherously every man against his brother, by profaning the covenant of our Fathers? He will then lay to heart that great saying of the Lord Jesus Christ, viz. The c Joh. 12.48. word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day. And therefore he will seriously consider of these and the like say of the Apostles; which Christ d 2 Cor. 13.3. spoke in them, as; Who art thou that e Rom. 14.4. judgest another man's servant? to his own master he standeth or falleth. Yea, he shall be holden up: for God is able to make him stand. f Verse 10. Why dost thou judge thy brother? Or why dost thou set at nought thy brother? We shall all stand before the Judgement seat of Christ. g Verse. 12. Every one of us shall give account of himself to God. h Verse. 13. Let us not therefore judge one another any more, but judge this rather, that no man put a stumbling block, or an occasion to fall in his brother's way. i James. 4.11, 12. Gal. 5.15. Speak not evil one of another (brethren:) He that speaketh evil of his brother, and judgeth his brother, speaketh evil of the Law, and judgeth the Law: but if thou judge the Law, thou art not a doer of the Law, but a Judge. There is one Lawgiver, who is able to save, and to destroy: Who art thou that judgest another? Also what David delivereth, viz. Unto the wicked God saith: k Ps. 50.16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22. What hast thou to do to declare my statutes, or that thou shouldest take my covenant in thy mouth; Seeing thou hatest instruction, and castest my words behind thee. When thou sawest a thief, than thou consentedst with him, and hast been partaker with adulterers. Thou givest thy mouth to evil, and thy tongue frameth deceit. Thou sittest and speakest * The Gospel requireth, that we duly speak against our own selves. 1 Cor. 11.31. Mat. 7.5. Luke. 6.41, 42. Lam. 3.40. 2 Cor. 13.5. and 2. Cor. 7.10, 11. 1 Tim. 1.15. Luke. 15.18, 19, 21. Exod. 23.1. Eph. 4.31. Ps. 15.3. See Sirach. 19.6, 7, 8, 9, 10. Deut. 27.24. James. 1.26. against thy brother, thou slanderest thine own mother's son. These things hast thou done, and I kept silence: thou thoughtest that I was altogether such a one as thyself: but I will reprove thee, and set them in order before thine eyes. Now consider this, ye that forget God, lest I tear you in pieces, and there be none to deliver. Let us therefore no more l Mat. 23.24. strain at a gnat, and swallow a Camel. Let us ever remember that saying of the Holy Ghost: m 1 Joh. 3.15. Whosoever hateth his brother, is a murderer. Also what the Lord Jesus Christ the righteous Judge hath pronounced, viz. n Mat. 5.22. Whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause, shall be in danger of the judgement: and whosoever shall say to his brother, Racha, shall be in danger of the Council: but whosoever shall say, thou fool, shall be in danger of hellfire. I will forewarn you (saith Christ) whom ye shall fear: o Luk. 12.5. Fear him, which after he hath killed, hath power to cast into Hell, yea I say unto you, Fear Him. Wherefore in reverence and godly p Heb. 12.28, 29. fear of our God, which is a consuming fire, q Eph. 4.1, 2, 3. let us (according to the Apostles exhortation) walk worthy of the vocation wherewith we are called, with all lowliness and meekness, with long suffering, forbearing one another in love, endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. Let us be r Eph 2.20, 21, 22. 1 Pet. 2.5. See the margin there. built upon the foundation of the Apostles and Prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief corner stone: in whom all the building fitly framed together, groweth unto an holy Temple in the lord. Let us s 1 Thess. 4.18 Isa. 65.18, 19 Isa. 66.10, 11.12, 13, 14. comfort one another with the words of the Lord, concerning the great Unity, peace and concord, foretold to come to pass in this last Time. God saith by Zephaniah: t Zeph. 3.9. For then will I turn to the people a pure language, that they may all call upon the name of the Lord, to serve him with one consent. He saith by Jeremiah: I will give them u jer. 32.39. Ezech. 11.19. one heart, and one way, that they may fear me for ever, for the good of them, and of their children after them. Zechariah saith: * Zech. 14.9. The Lord shall be a King over all the earth: in that day shall there be one Lord, and his name one. Isaiah saith: x Jsa. 16.5. And in mercy shall the Throne be established, and be shall sit upon it in truth, in the Tabernacle of David, judging and seeking judgement, and hasting righteousness. He saith else where: The y Jsa. 11.6, 7, 8, 9 Jsa. 65.25. also Jsa. 25.6, 7, 8.30.26.24.23.11.11.12.11.13. wolf also shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the Kid: and the calf, and the young lion, and the fatling together, and a little child shall lead them. And the cow and the bear shall feed, their young ones shall lie down together: and the lion shall eat straw like the ox. And the sucking child shall play on the hole of the Asp, and the weaned child shall put his hand on the cockatrice den. They shall not hurt nor destroy in all my holy mountain: for the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the Lord, as the waters cover the Sea. Unto the which God, Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, z Rev. 5.13. be blessing, honour, and glory, and power, for ever and ever, Amen. O house of Jacob, come ye, and let us walk in the light of the lord. Isaiah 2.5. FINIS.