Christ Exalted: IN A SERMON Begun to be preached at Debenham in Suffolk, upon the 14. day of Febr. last, upon Coloss. 3.11.  
By HANSERD KNOLLYS.  
Who was stoned out of the Pulpit (as he was Preaching) by a company of rude fellows, and poor women of that Town; who were sent for, called together, and set on by a Malignant High-Constable, who lives in the same Town.  
ALSO, ANOTHER SERMON Preached at Stradbrooke in Suffolk, the 13. day of Febr. last, concerning Sanctification; upon Ephes. 1.4.  GALAT 4.16. Am I therefore become your enemy, because I tell you the truth. HEBR. 12.14. Fellow Peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord. 2 CORINTH. 11.25. Once was I stoned. JOHN 10.32. For which of these good works do you stone me? 
LONDON, Printed in the Year, 1645.   

TO THE HONOURABLE Committee of Examinations; Grace and Peace from God, through CHRIST.  
HONOURABLE,  
IT may be judged an act of great boldness in me, who am under the Examination of this Honourable Committee, to dedicate my poor labours at Debenham and Stradbrook, to your patronage; especially to publish them to the world: Had not the hard reports of some persons (too much credited by many) constrained me to vindicate first the truth, and in the next place to give some satisfaction to many, who have heard those reports, I should not have been so bold; the consciousness of mine own inability, and the knowledge of the profitable labours of many both learned and godly, hath to this time, and still had justly hindered me from publishing any thing by print to the view of the World: Wherefore I (being thus enforced to print my Sermons) present them to your Honours; wherein you have the sum and substance of all that I preached in Suffolk (as many witnesses can testify.) For my main endeavours there was, to exalt Christ, and to press my Hearers to Sanctification in heart and life. And if the Lord shall please to make my poor labours a blessing to any, he will get glory, and I have my reward with him. Howsoever, I humbly submit both myself and my Book, to the Examination and determination of this Honourable Committee.  
Your Honours to serve you in the Lord, HANSERD KNOLLYS.   
COLLOS. 3.11. 
Christ is all, and in all.  
THe Apostle Paul, who was a chosen vessel unto the Lord, to bear his name before the Gentiles, Acts 9 15. wrote this Epistle to the Saints, and Faithful brethren in Christ, which were at Colosse, chap. 1. verse 2. And as the Ensign-bearer of His glorious Name displayed the Magnificency, and transcendent Excellency of Christ, in the words of the Text, Christ is all, and in all. And that he might lift up Christ's all-sufficiency, he nullifies all other excellencies whatsoever, chap. 3. ver. 11 Where he gives the Colossians to understand, that the advantage of a Jew above a Gentile, the dignity of a Scythian, above a Barbarian, or the Immunities of a Freeman above a Bondslave, however esteemed amongst men, are nothing without Christ, who is all, and in all; These words have their dependence upon the exhortation unto Mortification, chap. 3. vers. 5. Which exhortation the Apostle pressed upon the Colossians, by telling them, vers. 9.10. they had put off the Old-Man with his deeds, & had put on the Newman, etc. Where (that is) in which State of Regeneration, there is neither Greek, nor Jew, etc. But Christ is all, and in all. The lesson to be learned hence is this, to wit, Christ is all, and in all, in the Newman.  
Doct. Two thighs needs some explanation in this Doctrine, viz. 1. Who is here meant by the Newman? and secondly, How Christ is all, and in all, in the Newman? By the Newman, here, we are to understand (as was intended by the Apostle) a true believer, or a faithful Brother in Christ, one sanctified in Christ Jesus, called a Saint, who is redeemed in the Spirit of his mind, and hath put on the Newman, Ephes. 4 23, 24. which is done, when by the mighty operation of the holy Spirit, in the Promises given unto us, we are made partakers of the Divine nature, 2 Pet. 1.3, 4. Non per participationem Essentiae, sed per communicationem Spiritus, & gratiae ejus. Gal. 4 6. Ephes. 4.6. thus being by the Spirit and Faith united with Christ, we are made a new creature, or creation. 2 Cor. 5.17. have a new Heart, Ezek. 36.26, 27. and walk in newness of life, Rom. 6.4. And such may be said to have put on the Newman, the sum than is this, Christ is all, and in all, in every true Believer in every Justified-Sanctified person, woe hath a New-heart, and walk in newness of life. Touching the Second particular, to wit, How Christ is all, and in all, in the new man? The Lord Jesus Christ, (who is all in himself, for in him dwelleth all the Fullness of the Godhead bodily, Col. 2.9. which was the pleasure of God, that in all things he might have the pre-eminence, Col. 1.18, 19) is all, and in all, in the Newman. First, Fundamentally, I mean Christ is the Foundation of all, 1 Cor. 3.11. For other Foundation can no man lay then that is laid, which is jesus Chirist; I say Christ is the Foundation of all that Faith, Repentance, Love, & other graces, gifts, and fruits of the Spirit, which are in every true believer: He is a living fountain full of grace, and from his fullness have we all received grace for grace, Joh. 1.14, 16. Secondly, Communicatively, I mean, christ doth communicate all unto the Newman, to wit, Life, Light, Grace, and Glory, etc. We have nothing, but what we have received, and we have received all from his fullness, Ephes. 4.7. Joh. 1.16. The Titles given to Christ in the Scripture of truth, will make this appear yet more fully, viz. That Christ is all in the Newman, or in every true Believer: I shall instance some.  
1. Christ is our life, Col. 3.4. Christ is the life of a Believer, even eternal Life, 1 Joh. 5.11, 12. That is to say, The everlasting Spiritual well-being of a believer, is by union and communion with Jesus Christ, in whom he lives a life of grace here, and with whom he shall live a life of glory hereafter. Yea all those spiritual breathe of the hunger-thirsting soul after the enjoyment of God in any of his holy Ordinances, are from Christ, and from him are all those quickenings, and all that life we have in Prayer, Preaching, Conference, and other spiritual duties. In a word, the spirit of life himself, who so sweetly refresheth the weary soul, comforts the sorrowful heart, and quickens the sanctified affections, is from Christ, and he is called the Spirit of the Son, Gal. 4.6. whom God sends forth into the hearts of his Children.  
2. Christ is the true light of every believer, or in the Newman; That was the true Light, Joh. 1.9. even Jesus Christ, who inlightneth the eyes of our understanding, that we may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the Saints, and what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward, who believe, Ephe. 1.17, 18, 19 And though the hearts of men and women be very dark, yet God who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, (who are believers) to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the Face of jesus Christ. 2 Cor. 4.6. And the Apostle tells the sanctified Ephesians, that they were sometimes darkness, but now ye are light in the Lord, Ephes. 5.8. And indeed, all that heavenly knowledge, and spiritual understanding, which believers have in the mystery of the Gospel, they had it from Christ; In whom are are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge, Col. 2.2, 3.  
3. Christ is the Bread of life to believers, Joh. 6.35, 48, 51. He is the Spiritual meat and drink of their souls, who believe in him, they that eat him shall live by him, Joh. 6.55, 57 All that Spiritual nourishment, and soul refreshment, which believers have in promises, duties, Ordinances, etc. is from Christ, whose flesh is meat indeed, and his blood is drink indeed, communicated by his holy spirit unto his people in those promises, duties, Ordinances, etc. Christ is Milk and wine, to be had without money, Isa. 55.1. that will quench the thirst of the newborn babes in Christ, which so much desire the sincere milk of the word, that they may grow thereby, 1 Pet. 2.2, 3. and that will make the mournful spirit of a a doubting or back-sliding Believer, to have a cheerful countenance, when his broken heart is cheered and warmed, yea melted, and comforted with the blood of Christ his Redeemer. Christ is Water of life, a pure River of living Water clear as Crystal, flows from this Fountain in the hearts of Believers, Rev 22.1, 17. Joh. 7.37, 38. & joh. 4.10.13, 14. This will satisfy the thirsty soul, as Chirist Promised Mat. 5.6, 11, therefore he cried, If any man thirst, let him come to me and drink. Christ is the the tree of life, which beareth twelve manner of fruits, and yields her fruit every month, whose leaves are for the healing of the Nations. Revel. 22.2. Christ is said to make a feast of wine and fat things full of Marrow, Isa. 25.6. and he thus speaks to believers, eat, O Friends, drink, yea drink, abundantly, O beloved, Cant. 5.1. I might be exceeding large in particularising many other his Titles, as namely; Christ is a believers Justification, Sanctification, Redemption, 1 Cor. 1.30. He is also our Peace, Ephes. 2.14. our Righteousness, jer. 23.6. Our Advocate with the Father. 1 john 2.1, 2. Our King, Highpriest, and Prophet, Our Father, Husband, Brother, our All. Thus it may appear, that Christ is all in the Newman. How is Christ all, in all in the Newman? I conceive, It is spoken by way of Pre-eminence, as it is expressed, Col. 1.18, 19 That is, In all, which is in the Newman, or in a Believer Christ ought to have the pre-eminence; First, as he is the Author thereof, for instance, That precious faith of God's Elect, which is in the Newman is an excellent grace, but yet Christ must have the pre-eminence above that faith, because he is the Author of it, Heb. 12.2. And so above all other graces, gifts, and fruits of the Spirit.  
Secondly, as he is the preserver of all in the Newman, every believer, is called and Sanctified by God the Father, and preserved in Jesus Christ, jude 1. And the Believer is not only preserved in the state of Grace by Christ, but the Grace of God wrought in him, to wit, faith, etc. Is by Christ preserved also; namely, by the Intercession of Christ. I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not.  
Thirdly, as he is the finisher, who strengtheneth, stablisheth, and perfecteth all in the Newman. Christ is not only the Author, but the Finisher of our Faith. Heb. 12.2. He is the Alpha, and Omega; the beginning and the ending of all those Graces, gifts, and fruits of the Spirit, which are in the Newman. Revel. 1 8. Thus Christ is all, and in all, in the Newman. He is the Author, Preserver, and finisher of all. He purchased all, He is the Donour of all, He is the Beauty of all, the Summe of all, the Perfection of all, in the Newman.  
Reason. This was the good pleasure of the Father's will, that all fullness, all-sufficiency, all spiritualness should dwell in Christ, and should by Christ be communicated to his people, that in all things Christ might have the pre-eminence, Col. 1.18, 19 And thus God will have it done to the Man Christ Jesus, whom he delighted to honour, for the service Christ did unto his Father in the Redemption of his people, therefore he gave him a Name, above every Name, Christ is all, and in all. Which honour & dignity, Christ will at the last day prostrate at the feet of his Father, that God may be all in all. 1 Cor. 15.28. Moreover, this being the design of God, that Christ should communicate all grace, gifts, etc. unto his people. It was requisite, that all fullness should be in Christ, and so we read, John. 1.14, 16. Yea the great necessity of the Lords redeemed one's, to have a constant supplie of grace, and spiritual gifts, also a continual growth of the fruits of the spirit, requires this all-fulness to be in Christ.  
Use. 1 Seeing, Christ is all, and in all, in the Newman; Let us hence be Instructed. First, to prize Christ highly, to set an high esteem upon Christ, to let Him have the pre-eminence, who is all in all. It is that which the Prophet complained of, Isa. 53.3. He, to wit Christ, was despised, and rejected of men, and we esteemed him not. We are apt to slight Christ, and to disesteem Him, because we discern not that beauty, excellency, riches, and glory, which is in Himself, we are ignorant of the worth of Christ, and know not our need of him, and therefore we do not so prise him, as we ought. These two Considerations, I desire, to propound, as motives, to prize Christ. First, Christ his worth, which I may hint unto you in three particulars, to wit, 1. The unvaluable preciousness of his blood, which hath in it a cleansing virtue, 1 John 1.7, 9 And the blood of jesus Christ his Son, cleansed us from all sin, therefore, we are said, to be justified by his blood, Rom. 5.9. Let me ask you, who now believe, How did you esteem of this precious blood of Christ? When you were sighing-out your mournful request to God in secret corners, for one drop of Christ's blood, one dram of the grace of God, and faith of God his Elect, one word of promise, one smile of a reconciled Father, or one beam of the light of God's countenance, did you not prise the blood of Christ above all corruptible things, as silver, gold, honour, riches, pleasure, etc. Did you not esteem the least drop of it more precious, than all creature-comforts whatsoever, as friends, liberties, and life? Again, the precious blood of Christ hath a purging quality, Heb 9.14 The blood of Christ shall purge your consciences from dead works, to serve the living God. Sin doth both contract guiltiness, and pollution, and therefore the blood of Christ doth both cleanse, and purge, pardon, and purify, therefore we are also said, to be sanctified by the blood of Christ; Heb. 13.12. Wherefore Jesus also, that he might sanctify the people with his own blood; Suffered without the gate. Oh beloved, what can be esteemed so precious to a gracious heart, as this blood of Christ, which washeth away all those defilements, and uncleannesses, which through our corruptions cleave unto us, even in our best actions, and holy duties: Such of you, (as have many a time groaned in prayer to God under the feeling sense and sight of any corruption) know by experience, what high esteem you have had of the blood of Christ to save you, from your uncleanness.  
Secondly, the unsearchable riches of his grace. Ephes. 3.8. To me who am less than the least of all Saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles, the unsearchable riches of Christ. Christ's riches are of such an height, depth, length, and breadth, that passeth knowledge, yea thus much is spoken of the love of Christ. Ephes. 3.18, 19 Also Faith in Christ is called precious faith, 2 Pet. 1.1. To them, that have obtained like precious faith with us, through the Righteousness of God and our Saviour Jesus Christ, yea all the Graces of Christ are the riches of the poor Saints, Jam. 2.5. God hath chosen the poor of the world, rich in grace, etc. Tell me, beloved, how did you esteem of the riches of Christ, when you being poor in spirit, mourned for Christ and his grace, when you discerned Faith, Love, Humility, etc. in others of the children of God, did you not prise it highly in them? Did you not account them happy, rich, and blessed, whom Christ had enriched with those jewels, and adorned with such graces? Ah how much more should you now prize Christ, in whom is all fullness of these unsearchable riches, and especially considering, that from his fullness you have received grace for grace, joh. 1.14, 16.  
Thirdly, the glorious liberties of his Spirit; for where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. 2 Cor. 3.17. Not any carnal liberty to sin, and so fulfil the lusts of the Flesh, Gal. 5.13. but Spiritual liberty, and freedom from sin. I mean not a perfect and total freedom from all sin, as if the people of God could never sin after Conversion. For if we say, that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us, 1 Joh. 1 8, 10. But I mean a freedom: First, from the guilt of sin. Rom. 8 33. And the Apostle saith, Colos. 2.13. That he hath forgiven us all trespasses. Secondly, from the pollution or filth of sin, Zach. 13.1. A fountain set open to Believers for sin and for uncleanness. And Ezek. 36.25, 29. God promised they shall be clean, and he will save them from all their uncleannesses. Thirdly, from the reigning power of sin: Rom. 6.14. Sin shall not have dominion over you, under grace. Fourthly, from the punishment due for sin, which is the cure of the Law, Gal. 3.13. or condemnation, Rom. 8.1. or any other satisfactory punishment.  
2 The great need you have of Christ, may move you to praise him, and set an high esteem of him. Christ is the one thing necessary, and therefore the Titles given him in the Scripture, are such as declare his usefulness to Believers, for he is our Life, our Light, our Bread, Water, Milk, Wine, His flesh our meat indeed, His blood our drink indeed; He is our Father, our Husband, our Brother, our Friend, our King, Priest, and Prophet; He is our Justification, Sanctification, and Redemption; He is our Peace, our All. We can have no access to God but by his Mediation, no acceptance with God without his Jntercession. Revel. 8.3.4. We cannot resist the next Temptation, neither can we overcome the next Corruption, nor shall we be able to suffer with patience the next Persecution, or endure any tribulation, unless we have renewed strength from Christ. Believers have received, that Grace, they have, from Christ, john 1 16. And they cannot have increase of grace but by Christ, john 15.1, 2. Lord increase our Faith said the Disciples, neither can they persevere in grace, unless they be preserved in Christ, jude 1. To conclude, we are nothing, have nothing, can do nothing without Christ, john 15.5. Without me you can do nothing; that is to say, you cannot in your own strength, nor in the strength of any grace received, do any thing to please God, or to glorify God, without me; unless you abide in me, and have renewed ability and strength from me, you can do nothing that God my father will own or crown with acceptance or reward: But yet we who are Believers, have all and abound, Phil. 4.18. can do all things through Christ that strengtheneth them, Phil. 4.13. can suffer the loss of all, Phil. 3.7, 8, 9 yea and conquer all, nay be more than conquerors through Christ, Rom. 8.35, 36, 37, 38, 39 Oh consider your need of Christ and learn to prise him, let him be exalted highest in your hearts, as the pearl of greatest worth, as the one thing necessary which you most of all need, let him be all in all in your communication and conversation.  
2. Use. Seeing Christ is all and in all in the newman, let every one examine whether Christ be in him. 2. Cor. 13.5. Examine yourselves, know you not that Christ is in you, etc. This nearly concerns you beloved, for if you have Christ, you have all. Christ is all you heart but if you lose him you lose all; you will lose your hopes, Comforts, and all your duties, yea you will lose God, Heaven, and soul, and all. It matters not what you have if you want Christ, no gifts, duties, reformations, qualifications, or other things whatsoever, will make you happy without Christ; And if you enjoy Christ, it is not material what ever you want, for my God (saith the Apostle) shall supply all your need, according to his riches, in glory by Christ Jesus Phil. 4.19. Therefore make sure that Christ is yours. Some would ask this question, How shall I so examine, that I may know assuredly that I have Christ? I answer, you must bring your hearts to the touchstone of the Word of God, and cast them into the balance of the Sanctuary and weigh them there. And to this purpose, I shall propound one Scripture of truth for your examination and trial, to wit, 2 Cor. 5.17. If any man be in Christ he is a new-creature, or creation; That is to say, he is newborn, born again, or born of God, Joh. 1.12, 13. But as many as received him, etc. which were born of God. And our Saviour urged the necessity of this new-birth, Joh. 3.3.5.7, 8. Except a man be born again he cannot see the Kingdom of God, he cannot enter into the Kingdom of God, vers. 5. Now every one who is a new creature in Christ, all things are become new in him, or all things are made new [as in the Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, ecce nova facta sunt omnia.] To wit; first he is made a new man, Ephes. 4.21.22.23.24. Col. 3.10.11, and have put on the newman where Christ is all and in all. Secondly, he hath a new heart, Ezek. 36.26. A new heart also will I give you, etc. That is, a new will and new affections, yea and a new spirit will I put within you, verse 26. That is (Ephes. 4.23.) to be renewed in the spirit of our mind, to wit, a new judgement or spiritual understanding in the knowledge of God's will, Col. 1.9. Thirdly, he walks in newness of life: Rom. 6.4. Even so we also should walk in newness of life. That is, the conversation of a new-creature should be such as becomes the Gospel: Phil. 1.27. To wit, humble, harmless, and holy: 1 Pet. 1.15 16. And thus God hath promised in the everlasting covenant of grace, that all and every one of his people shall walk: Ezek. 36.27. And I will put my spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, etc. Examine yourselves, Are you a new creature? Such of you as have not put off the old man, but still have your old hearts, and your old sins, and walk in your old ways, and fulfil the old lusts of your sinful natures, are not in a new creature, you are not in Christ, nor Christ in you.  
But some may thus say within themselves, I hope my soul is in a better condition, I am not so wicked and carnal as some others are, neither am I so vild a sinner as I have been formerly; but I am somewhat reform, and have forsaken my sinful courses, and begin to delight to hear Sermons, and I pray with my family. To this I would answer, although your condition be not so desperate as others, who have lived long under ordinatie means of grace, and yet are not at all wrought upon, I must tell you, Professors may (through strong Convictions, horror of conscience, and fears of Hell) leave the Acts of some sins, and may customarily perform some religious duties, and yet not regenerated. Professors may have leaves like the unfruitful Figtree, and Lamps like the five foolish Virgins, they may seem to be Religious, and have a form of Godliness; and not be a New creature, or creation. I might instance many such in the Scriptures. Herod, Mark. 6.20. He heard john gladly, and did many things. Saul, 1 Sam. 10.6, 9 was turned into another Man, had another heart, yet unconverted: So thou mayest be another Man, and not a Newman, mayest have another heart, but not a new heart.  
But I speak not this to add sorrow to the afflicted, nor to break the the bruised, for though some may deceive themselves herein; Yet such of you as are borne again or borne of God, though but Newborn babes, who have put on the Newman, have a New heart, and walk in Newness of life, are in Christ, and Christ in you.  
3. Use. Seeing, Christ is all, and in all in the Newman; Let it serve for the consolation of every true believe, Christ is yours, and all things are yours: 1 Cor. 3.21, 22, 23. All are yours, and ye are Christ's, and Christ is God. Christ is your life, your light, your food, your All, and by union with Christ, you are one in God, John. 17.21. God is your God and Father, John 20.17. All that is Christ's is yours, his Wisdom, Righteousness, Sanctification, Faith, Love, Humility, etc. All in all fullness, was in Him, and dwells in him, for his people, to communicate to them, Epes. 4.7. Are you full of spiritual wants, you may have supply from the fullness of spirituals in Christ. Do you want Wisdom, Faith, love, etc. What ever you want, go to Christ for that grace; There is enough in Christ to satisfy the most hunger-thirsting souls in spiritual things, Epes. 1.3. God hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings, in heavenly things in Christ; In whom are hid all the treasures of Wisdom, and knowledge: Col. 2.3. Do you want power against corruptions? go to Christ for strength, His grace is sufficient for thee, 2 Cor. 12.8.9. There is an all-sufficiency in Christ, Christ is all, saith the Text, therefore the Apostle having Christ, said, I have all, I can do all through Christ, Phil. 4.13, 18. And know for your further consolation, that Chirist is in all in the Newman, or in every true Believer.  
He is in you, Col. 1.2. Christ in you, the hope of glory; Christ liveth in me saith the Apostle, 2 Gal. 20. Christ is, and lives in a true believer by participation of his Divine Nature, 2 Pet. 1.3, 4. By incohation of his holy Spirit, Gal. 4.6. and by communication of his saving grace, Ephes. 3.17. and 4 7. Christ is in your hearts, in your gifts, in your graces, in your duties, in all, by whom you find acceptance of your persons, and services with God your heavenly Father, Ephes. 1.6. Christ is with you, and in you, in all conditions, in all relations, in all Afflictions, Isa. 63.8 9 And to conclude this use, know for your increase of joy; that Christ, who is all, and in all in you will abide in you for ever; Nothing shall be able to separate Christ and your souls, Rom. 8.35, 38, 39 Christ is the strength of your heart, and your portion for ever, Psalm. 73.26.  
4. Use. Seeing Christ is all, and in all in the Newman, suffer a word of exhortation, which will conscerne every one present to hearken to, viz. Both such as are in Christ, and out of Christ. And I am sure e'er one of you are in one of these two estates: either you are in Christ, or without Christ. The first branch of the exhortation shall be you, who are believers, and sanctified in Christ jesus, called Saints, seeing, Christ is all in all, Let him be all in all in your justification, take ye heed you bring not any righteousness of your own, nor any grace or work of his in you, to join with Christ, and his righteousness in point of justification: Phil. 3.9. This glory Christ will not give to another. He is our jujustification, or righteousness, 1 Cor. 1.30, 31. Christ will not permit any coadjutor, concause, or cooperator whatsoever in justification of sinners.  
Consider this you who will not believe, unless you could see yourselves so holy, so humble; except you can first have such a sin subdued, you will not believe any of your sins are pardoned, until you find and feel in yourselves a soft heart, a broken heart, a praying spirit, a mourning spirit, you cry out you are not justified. Oh, say you, if I could pray, mourn for sin, profit by the means, as such and such do, than I would believe: but alas, I have a hard heart, a blind mind, a perverse will, carnal affections, etc. I cannot, dare not, I will not believe that my sins are forgiven. Thus most professors would bring in (if not their own righteousness) some grace or work of God in them, to join with Christ in their justification, not considering that God justifies the ungodly, Rom. 4.5. and that Christ is all and in all in the justification of sinners.  
Secondly, let Christ be all, in all the gifts of the Spirit, and graces of sanctification: for, as you heard, he is the Author, the Preserver, and the finisher of them all, therefore let him have the pre-eminence, above all, set an high esteem of every gift and grace of God, account a little grace better than all the riches, honours, pleasures, and creature-comforts of this world. But you ought to prize Christ fare above all his own gifts and graces in us, for he is the life of them all, the marrow and substance of them a I. What is all knowledge, unless ye know God in Christ? 1 Cor. 13.2 nothing. What is all Faith, except Christ be the object of it? 1 Cor. 13.2 Nothing. Patience, Temperance, and all other Virtues, what are they? but either natural qualities, or moral habits, unless Christ be the root of them; Nature, Education, and acquired gifts of Art may produce the like, yea the same, in Heathens. But Christ is the lustre and beauty of each spiritual gift and grace: that influence believers receive from Christ, and those rays that come from this Sun of Righteousness upon their graces, makes them shining Saints, beautiful and all glorious within. Hear this you poor in spirit, you newborn babes in Christ, who have the persons of believers (especially Preachers) in admiration, and set them up on high in your hearts, and extol them with your tongues, because you discern so much humility, love, patience, faith, and other gifts of the Spirit, and graces of sanctification in them: should you not rather admire Christ, exalt Christ, and extol him, who is the purchaser, the owner, the donor, and the author of all these spiritual gifts and graces, for we have nothing but what we have received, by his grace we are what we are, and all the grace we have, from his fullness we received it, Joh. 1.16. therefore let him receive the glory of all, and let him have the pre-eminence in all, for he is all in all.  
Thirdly, let Christ be all, in all your affections, words, and actions. Set your affections on Christ. Oh let the discoveries of that superlative excellency, and glorious beauty of Christ, which are made out to your souls by the Spirit and Word of God, draw you to set your affections on him, Col. 1.1 2. Love every one, and every thing that God hath put the name of Christ upon, for his sake, but chief set your affectionate love upon himself, love Christ in his Saints, love Christ in his messengers, in his ordinances, etc. this will quicken your desires to enjoy more of Christ, more of Christ in his Saints, Ministers, Ordinances, and in your own hearts. On let Christ be chiefest in your affections, he is altogether lovely, Cant. 5.16. Let him have your dearest love, he is the well-beloved of his Father and yours, 2 Pet. 1.17. let him be your well-beloved. Christ bears you in his arms, everlasting arms of mercy, yea in his bosom, Isa. 40.11. & 63.9. Do you bear him in your heart, and let Christ be exalted highest there. Again, let the absence of Christ be the chief occasion of your sorrow and mourning, Matth. 9 15. cry after him, inquire for him, give him no rest until he return: this was the practice of the Spouse, Cant. 3.1, 2, 3, 4. & Cant. 5.4, 6, 8. Oh how was her affections set upon her Beloved! tell him I am sick of love, Cant. 5.8. Though there be many other just occasions for mourning to the Saints, yet this is the chief. If a loving wife cannot think of the departure of her dear husband without sorrow, how much more sorrowful will a gracious heart be in the absence of Christ? Marry likewise who wept, and being asked the reason by the Angels, answered, Because they have taken away my Lord, etc. Joh. 20.11, 13, 15, 16. And as Christ should be all in your affections, so let him be in your words and actions: speak for him, do for him, suffer for him, let him be the matter of your communications and conferences, that you may minister grace to the hearers: what ever you do in word or deed, let all be done to the honour of Christ, for he that honours the Son, honours the Father also.  
The other branch of the exhortation, is to such as are in their natural condition, without Christ, seeing Christ is all & in all, be exhorted to seek Christ. Paul preaching on Mars-hill to the Athenians, tells them, God made of one blood all Nations of men, that they should seek the Lord, Act 17.22, 26, 27. and there be many exhortations in holy Scripture to this purpose: as Isa. 55.6, 7. Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, etc. Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts, and let him return unto the Lord, etc. The Apostle Peter in his speech to Simon Magus, Act. 8.20, 21, 22, 23. told him his heart was not right in the sight of God, that he was in the gall of bitterness, and in the bond of iniquity. And yet he exhorted him to repent and pray to God, vers. 22 Not that any man in his natural condition can of himself come to Christ, desire him, or seek to enjoy him for none can come to Christ except the Father draw him. Joh. 6.44. It is God that works in us to will and to do according to his good pleasure, Phil. 2.13. So then, saith the Apostle, it is not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that showeth mercy; only know this, God requiring poor sinners to use the means, he hath appointed, is pleased to make that means effectual for their conversion and salvation. For if God have purposed to show mercy, and confer his grace upon your souls, he will cause you to seek unto him, Ezek. 36.26, 27 37. A new heart will I give you, and I will put my Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my Statutes: Thus saith the Lord God, I will yet for this be enquired of by the house of Israel to do it for them, vers. 37. God's gracious and free promises do not exclude the means he hath appointed to attain the mercies therein promised. It pleaseth him to tie his creatures to the use of means, when he affords it them, though he will sometime work without it. Now the ordinary means which God hath in his infinite wisdom appointed to convert sinners, and also to build them up in Christ, is the Word preached, Rom. 10.8, 17. This word of the Gospel God will have preached to every creature in all parts of the world, Mark 16.15. None are exempted or prohibited from hearing the Gospel preached, but every one that hath an ear is required to hear, Revel. 2.7. And let such as neglect the hearing of the word of God (preached by such as are called and sent of Christ) consider what the Lord saith, Prov. 1. from the 20. vers. to the 32. verse. But albeit some of you see it is that you ought to do, and that you had need to do, to wit, to seek the Lord; assenting to what you heard in the first verse of the doctrine, that there is much worth, beauty, and excellency in Christ, and that poore-lost-undone sinners stand in need of him: Notwithstanding how to obtain Christ you know not as yet. Let me tell you, God offers you Christ upon Gospel-termes, which are these three.  
First, God in the dispensation of the Gospel propounds Christ to lost sinners, as the only necessary, and all-sufficient means of Salvation: Christ is the only necessary means of Salvation, Act. 4.12. Neither is there Salvation in any other. And Christ is the All-sufficient means of Salvation, so that we need none but him: Heb. 7.25. He is able to save them to the umost, etc.  
Secondly, God doth offer Christ to lost sinners without respect to price or person, He invites them, that have no money, to come, and buy Wine, and milk, (that is to say, Christ) without price, Isa 55 1. And any one, that will, are invited to take Christ freely: Revel. 22.17 And whosoever will, let him take the water of life (that is, Christ) freely.  
Thirdly, God requires, that those, who do receive him, shall departed from iniquity, 2. Tim. 2.19. Live soberly, righteously, and Godly in this present world, Ti●us. 2 11, 12, 13, 14, 15. And that they shall sell all, lose all, and hate all for the sake of Christ, and take up the Cross and follow him.  
You will say to me, Alas, here is my misery, to wit, although God propound Christ upon good terms to poor sinners, to me among others, I have no power of myself to receive Christ, to believe in him, and accept of him. True, It is not (as I said) in him, that willeth, nor him that runneth, but in God, who showeth mercy; Rom. 9.16. It is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-wards, who believe, which must be put forth in your hearts, to make you believe also, according to the working of his mighty power, which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, Ephes. 1.19, 20. And you ought to wait on God in the diligent use of means until the day of his power come upon you, and then you shall be a willing, a believing people: Psal. 110.3. I may exhort you to repent of your wickedness, profaneness, etc. as Peter did: Act. 8.22. But God must give you repentance unto life, Act. 11.18 It is my duty to preach the Gospel to you, and to exhort you to seek Christ. Act. 17.22, 27. but it is the mere mercy and free grace of God to drive you to Christ, which nothing but his everlasting love can move him to do, jer. 31.3. You ought to seek, and wait, ask, and have, and use all the means which God hath appointed, and afforded you, both secret, private, and public, Revel. 2.29. But God must make the means effectual: Acts 16.14. And therefore I must say, It is not in me, I cannot draw you to Christ, that is the Father's work: John 6.44. But having exhorted you to seek him in the use of means, there I must leave you to wait on God for the moving of his holy Spirit, where you must lie and continue like the poor impotent man at the pool of Bethesda for healing: And though as he did, so you may see many a Lame, Blind, Deaf, Dumb, Naked-leprous soul, get healing and go away rejoicing and praising God, and you remain still so impotent, that you cannot get in to the Fountain, set open for sin and for uncleanness, nor have any that can help you in, that you may be cured: yet be not disheartened, as Christ came suddenly and unexpectedly, and healed the impotent man after long waiting; so Christ will come according to his promise to your souls that seek him, Malac. 3.1. The Lord whom you seek shall come, shall suddenly come, saith the Lord of Hosts.   

THE SECOND SERMON.  EPHES 1.4. 
That we should be holy.  
IN this chapter you have; First, the inscription of the Epistle, vers. 1. and therein is declared both the Penman Paul; and his Office, an Apostle of of Jesus Christ by the will of God; also the persons to whom the Epistle was written, the Saints, and to the faithful in Christ Jesus, which are at Ephesus.  
Secondly, A salutation, vers. 2. and therein is expressed the matter of the Salutation, Grace, and Peace; the persons saluted you, to wit, the Saints; the Author from whom Grace and Peace comes to the Saints: From God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ.  
Thirdly, A congratulation, vers. 3. for spiritual blessings in general, 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 etc. Who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings etc. or with every spiritual blessing. Whereof the Apostle mentioneth some particularly in the following verses, to wit, Election, Predestination, Adoption. In this 4 verse Saint Paul hints to us.  
First, That there is an Election.  
Secondly, That the Elect are chosen in Christ.  
Thirdly, That Election was before the World was founded.  
And fourthly, that the Elect of God should be holy, and without blame in his presence, in love.  
Thus you see the occasion, and dependence of the words of the Text, which offers to your religious consideration this plain Doctrine.  
Doct. God will have his people to be an holy people. This point of doctrine needeth no explanation; And it is a truth so generally assented to by all professors, that I shall give you but one Scripture, to confirm it. 2 Thes. 3. This is the will of God, 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 your Sanctification. And indeed it appears manifestly in the Scripture of truth, that this is God's holy will.  
First, because God hath chosen them in Christ to this end, Ephes. 1.4. That they should be holy.  
Secondly, God calls his to holiness, 1 Thes. 4.7. God hath not called us to uncleanness, but unto holiness.  
Thirdly, God hath given to every one of his the holy spirit to sanctify them, Rom. 15 16. being sanctified by the holy spirit.  
Fourthly, God affords them his holy word, which is a means of Sanctification. John. 17.17. Sanctify them through thy truth, thy word is truth. Yea when they sin against God, he will chastise them for their profit; that they may be partakers of his holiness, Heb. 12.10. So that God would have his people holy.  
Reason 1. God will have his people to be holy, that he may be justified in justifying the ungodly, Rom. 3.26. That he might be just, that justifieth the ungodly, Rom. 4.5. God justifieth the ungodly, that is, He finding men and women in their blood, or in their sins, Ezek. 16 6, 8. he (in the the time of love) forgives them all their sins, covers their nakedness with the skirt of Christ's Righteousness, and bids them live; This is done when God enters into covenant with them, and so they become his. Now that God may be justified in so doing, though he found them ungodly, unbelievers, impenitent, profane, etc. He doth not only forgive them all their sins, and so leave them ungodly, to go on in their wicked ways; But he gives them his holy Spirit of Sanctificaton, who changeth their hearts, renews the spirit of their mind, sanctifies their wills, and affection, and produceth all those fruits of the spirit in them, mentioned, Gal. 5.22, 23. whereby they are made holy in all manner of conversation. 1 Pet. 1.15, 16. And this reason the Apostle gives, Ephes. 1.4, 6. That we should be holy: to the praise of the glory of his grace, and verse 12. That we should be to the praise of his Glory. And herein is God justified in justifying the ungodly, in that he doth make and keep them holy, Judas 1.  
Reason 2. God will have his people to be holy, for the honour and glory of his Son Jesus Christ to whom he hath given them. All mine are thine (saith Christ in his Prayer to his Father, John 17.1, 10.) and thine are mine, and I am glorified in them, also verse. 19 And for their sakes, I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified. Christ shall be glorified in his Saints, especially in his Kingly Office, Revel. 15.3, 4. Just and true are thy ways; Thou King of Saints; Who shall not fear thee, O Lord, and glorify thy Name, for thou only art holy. And albeit, now Christ, and his poor Saints are scorned, and despised of men; yet that Prophecy of Enoch, the seventh from Adam, will have its accomplishment, Judas 14. Behold, the Lord cometh with ten thousand of his Saints. The Lord jesus shall be revealed from Heaven with his mighty Angels; When he shall come to be glorified in his Saints, 2 Thes. 17 10. And in that day it will appear to all the world, that it is the great glory of Jesus Christ, that his Father hath given him so many, ten thousands of Saints to be his Subjects, and himself to be their King, Isa. 33.17, 22.  
Reason. 3. God will have his people holy, that they may enjoy spiritual communion with him in this life, and Eternal communion with him in heaven. The Saints do enjoy spiritual Communion with God in this life, 1 John 1.3 Truly our fellowship is with the father, and with his Son Jesus Christ, and with the Spirit, Phil. 2.1. And they shall have eternal communion with God in Heaven, in that Kingdom prepared for them, which then thy shall receive, Matth. 25.34. Now this communion with God, none can have without holiness. Heb. 12.14. Therefore God will have his people to be holy.  
1. Use. Will God have his people to be holy? Let it be useful to us, first for enquiry, what holiness is? And how God makes His holy? 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 1 Thes. 4 3. 7 Holiness or Sanctification is a real change of the whole Man, from the pollution of sin, to the purity of the Image of Christ Rom. 6.22. But now being made free from sin, and become servants of God, ye have your fruits unto holiness Here was a real change in them from the pollution of sin, 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. Here was the other part of that real change in them, to wit, into the purity of the Image of Christ. For as men in their natural estate bear the Image of the Earthy first-man Adam; so men in their spiritual estate bear the Image of the Heavenly second-Man CHRIST, 1 Cor. 15.47, 48, 49. This holiness or sanctification (if you have respect to the Author and efficient cause thereof) is called the sanctification of the Spirit, 2 Thes. 2.13. and 1 Pet. 1.2. (If unto the divine act of God) it is called Renovation or Renewing of the mind, Ephes. 4.23, and Rom. 12.2. (If unto the Acts and fruits of holiness in believers) it is called Faith, love, long suffering, gentleness, goodness, meekness, temperance, etc. Gal. 5.22. (If unto the root, fountain, and foundation of holiness) the Scripture saith; Christ is our sanctification, 1 Cor. 1.30. Thus you hear what holiness is. Now God maketh His holy by his Spirit and Word; Whereby he doth convince them, that they are without Christ: Ephes. 2.12. Maketh discovery to them of the worth of Christ, their need of him, and Gods offer of him in a covenant of Grace upon Gospel terms; changing their hearts into the Image of Christ, 2 Cor. 3.18. Gives them Faith in Christ, Repentance from dead works, Love to all the Saints, etc. And so the very God of Peace Sanctify his people, 1 Thessalonians 5.23. Thus much may suffice touching the Jnquiry.  
2. Use. Will God have his people to be holy? Let us make use of this, to discover who are the people of God, & who are not. Those people, that are ungodly, unsanctified, are not the people of God, such may boast of their Justification, but they deceive themselves, for God hath no justified-unsanctified people, 1 Cor. 6 9, 10, 11. They may talk of the freegrace of God manifested to them & bringing them Salvation, but they are deluded; for the grace of God, that bringeth Salvation, teacheth us to deny ungodliness, and to live godly. Titus. 2.11, 12. Now there are three sorts of professors, who would be esteemed the people of God, and yet are not sanctified by the holy spirit, they are not holy, and therefore are not the Lords people in Covenant.  
The first Sort are all those legal professors, who having been by the spirit, and word of God much convinced of sin, john 16.8. Sorely wounded in their consciences, Proverbes. 18.14. and somewhat reform in their conversations, by hearing godly Preachers, as Herod was, Mark 6 20. after all this, go about to establish their own righteousness, and rest upon their duties, humiliation, and legal reformation; And never have their hearts changed, and renewed, nor Christ given of the Father unto them: These are not sanctified, are not the Lords. Hear what the Apostle speaks to such among the Galatians. Are ye so foolish? having begun in the Spirit, are you now made perfect by the flesh? Have you affired so many things in vain? If it be yet in vain. Well such of you as God hath chosen in Christ, that you should be holy, etc. He will also by his Spirit and Word convince you of Righteousness, to wit, that all your own Righteousnesses are as filthy rags, Isa. 64.6. That being ignorant of God's Righteousness, you have gone about to establish your own righteousness, Rom. 10 3. and that you must be found in Christ, not having your own righteousness, which is of the Law; but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith, Phil. 3 9  
The second Sort are all those formal professors, who seem only to be religious. james 1.26. Having a form of Godliness, but denying the power thereof. 2 Tim. 3.5. These will tell you they rest not on duties, trust not to their own righteausnesse, confide not in their Humiliation, as legal professors do; But they (after much trouble of conscience for their sins) got comfort, joy, and peace in applying some promises of the Gospel to themselves: Consider, I pray you, the Parable of the stony ground hearers. They on the rock, are they, which when thy hear receive the Word with joy, and these have no root, which for a while believe, and in time of temptation fall away, Luke 8.13. Here was some (ploughing, though it went not deep enough,) and some Harrowing also, to cover the good seed; after this the●e was some joy, but no root; Here was the Word convincing, and wounding, and comforting, but no Christ (who is called the root Coloss. 2.6, 7) to quicken, renew, and sanctify: And therefore, though they believed awhile, yet they fall away, in the time of Temptation. And this is the condition of formal Professors, they get comfort in promises, but they receive not Christ and His sanctifying comforting-spirit in the promises, let such hear what the Lord by His Prophet speaks to a formal professing people, Isa. 50.11. Behold, all ye that kindle a fire, that compass yourselves about with sparks; Walk in the light of your fire, and in the sparks that ye have kindled. This shall ye have at my hand, ye shall lie down in sorrow.  
The third sort are all those carnal Professors, who say they are the people of God, and hold the common Faith, Titus 1.4. which is the faith of God's Elect, Titus 1.1. and believe the common salvation: Judas 3. That is to say, common to every one that believeth, both Jew and Gentile: Rom. 1, 16. But notwithstanding all this profession of general redemption, they themselves are the servants of corruption: 2 Pet. 2.19. For they take liberty to live in sin, and walk after the flesh fulfilling the lusts thereof; turning the grace of God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ: Judas 4 They are so fa●re departed from the Faith, which they sometime professed, and seemed to have, 1 Tim. 4.1. that they question whether the Scriptures of truth be the Word of God? Whether Christ be the son of God? Whether the first day of the Week be the Sabbath of God? And they are so fare from living godly, and walking in the way of holiness; that they totally omit all holy duties, they refrain prayer, they speak not of the Word of God when they rise up, nor when they lie down, nor as they sin in the house together with their family: They do not partake of any Ordinances, nor perform any worship to God. And as for sin, they make a mock at it; some of them say God takes no knowledge of their sins, He sees no iniquity in them; others affirm, that they have no sin, they are born of God, and they cannot sin: And some others are bold, to say, they are justified persons, and therefore all their words and actions are alike acceptable to God, and wellpleasing in his sight etc. But these carnal professors are not holy, are not the people of God: This may make some discovery of those, whose hearts are not right with God; to whom I would give the Apostles exhortation, Acts 8.22.  
3. Use. Will God have His people to be holy? Then may this doctrine occasion a deep Humiliation, and godly sorrow in believers for their unholiness, carnallnesse, and sinfulness in heart or life, O beloved, let you and I commune with our own hearts, how much unbelief, hypocrisy, self-filthinesse, formality and wickedness, shall we upon diligent examination find still remaining in us? What vanity of mind and carnality is in our hearts? How many hard thoughts of God have we still? Notwithstanding all the experiences God hath given us of his unchangeableness, his faithfulness, and his everlasting loving kindness in Jesus Christ: How apt are we by an evil heart of unbelief, to departed from God? Alas what sinful contemplations have we in our spirits? What evil concupiscence? How do our hearts run out after the creature-comforts of this world, and how are our affections still set upon the things below Christ and God? How many Idols are set up in our hearts! How great is our self-love, selfseeking, selfconfidence, self-dependence, and self-sufficiency! O what high thoughts have we sometimes of ourselves, our gifts, our graces, our experiences, our performances? Surely we have just cause (if God will in mercy work in us godly sorrow) to be ashamed, to mourn after a godly manner, and to loathe ourselves for the abominations of our own hearts. But my brethren, let us examine our lives, and search and try our ways, as well as commune with our hearts, for the eye of the world is open upon us; God, and Angels, men and Devils, all observe us (who are believers) they hear what we say, and take knowledge what we do. O beloved, how much vain, carnal, and sinful communication comes out of our mouths, that ministers no grace to the hearers! How many idle words do we speak? What unprofitable talk have we among ourselves and with others; not gracious, nor seasoned with the salt of truth and holiness, but very unsavoury speeches. And when we meet together, and speak one to another of Religion, we are apt to speak slightly, rashly, formally, inconsiderately, and not soberly, humbly, and graciously, as becomes the Saints. Yea, our conferences sometimes turns to vain janglings, and un-edifying disputes, wherein we strive for victory, or to maintain our own opinion, more than truth; But besides all this, How much ungodliness is there in our actions? Albeit God preventeth us by His grace, from doing actions simply and grossly evil and ungodly, as drunkenness, uncleanness, etc. Yet in doing lawful things, we often miscarry; the Messengers of Christ do sometimes preach themselves, Fathers of Families do correct their children sometimes after their pleasure, provoking their children, being bitter to their Wives sometimes; Oh how uneven do we walk in our callings and relations! Wherein we should especially show forth the power of godliness. Oh had we tender hearts and were we truly sensible of our sinful miscarriages, we could not speak of those particulars without tears of godly sorrow. Can we consider how many years we have professed the Gospel, how long we have enjoyed the Word preached in season and out of season unto us, and yet how little our conversation is as becomes the Gospel, how little we have profited, how little we have grown in Grace, and in the knowledge of Jesus Christ, and not be affected to mourn under the feeling of our unprofitableness, and great barrenness. But I hope God will give us repentance unto salvation, not to be repent of for all our unrighteousness.  
4. Use. Will God have his people to be holy? Let it be useful for the consolation of every true Believer, especially such as at present groan under the tyrannical power, or captivating bondage of any corruption; And sigh to God for supply from Christ of any grace wanting, or weak in their apprehension, sense, and feeling. Harken poor mourning soul, and consider what may be said for thy comfort, and search the Scriptures whether it be so or not.  
Know first, That God's eternal purpose toward thee (who art a true Believer) in choosing thee in Christ, was, that thou shouldest be holy, Ephes. 1.4 and Rom. 8.30. I have purposed it (saith God) I will also do it, Isa. 46.11.  
Secondly, That God hath made with thee an everlasting Covenant of Grace and Holiness, wherein he hath given thee many great and precious promises, to pardon sin, to subdue iniquity, and to put his Law in thy mind, and write it in thy heart: Jer. 3.31.34, and 32.40, with Heb. 8.10.11.12. Micah. 7.18, 19, 20, with 2 Pet. 2.3, 4, to the 11. verse.  
Thirdly, that Christ hath prayed to His Father for thee, that he would sanctify thee, John 17.1.17.20.  
Fourthly, that Christ sanctified himself for thy sake, that thou also might be sanctified, Joh. 17.19.20.  
Fifthly, that God hath given thee the spirit of his son, Gal. 4.6. who is a comforting sanctifying spirit, yea the Comforter; John 14.16, 17.18: And he that sanctifieth all the people of God, 1 Thes. 5.23.  
Sixthly, That faithful is God, who called thee, who also will do it; 1 Thes. 5.24. He called thee unto Holiness, 1 Thes 4.7, and he will both make thee holy. [He hath said thou shalt be holy, Levit. 11.44.45, and 19.2. That is such a command, as hath the force of a promise in it; And though that place, Levit. 20 7, is, 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Sanctify yourselves therefore and be ye Holy; yet the 70. Interpreters renders it, 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. Et sanctificabimi, & eritis sancti. And so doth the Chaldees Paraphrast render it also. And Hierom translates that place, in the first of Pet. 1.16. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, Be ye holy, Sancti eritis, Ye shall be holy: And indeed, there is 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, in the Margin of one Greek Testament, for God can put a being to His Word] And therefore be of good comfort, thy sins are forgiven thee. Matth. 9.2. And sin shall not have dominion over thee, Rom. 6.14. The grace of Christ is sufficient for thee, 2 Cor. 12.9. He is full of grace, John 1.14. And from his fullness, thou shalt receive grace upon grace; John 1.16. According as his divine power hath given us all things, that pertain unto life and godliness. 1. Pet. 1.3.  
5. Use. Will God have his people to be holy? Let me conclude with an use of exhortation to holiness; As he that called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of Conversation, 1 Pet. 1.15. God will have his people holy at all times, in all relations, and in every condition. Therefore I beseech you brethren, and exhort you in the Lord, and for his sake, to be holy in all manner of Conversation, holy in your callings, for godliness is great gain: holy in your Families, in your shops, in your journeys in all your ways, and in all your relations. Godliness hath the promise both of this life, & that which is to come. Piety hath a majesty in it, it will give you a throne in the Consciences of others, that they dare not sin in your presence. Holiness is an ornament to your callings, to your persons, to your families, and to the place where you live. The more holy the more like your Heavenly Father, and the more you, glorify your heavenly Father, and the more you adorn the Doctrine of Christ, yea the more communion you have with the Father and with Christ. Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God, 2 Cor. 7.1, 4. great is my boldness of speech toward you in this exhortation, because I desire fruit that may abound to your account; And give me leave to press this exhortation upon such believers present who have carnal parents, yokefellowes, or other carnal friends. You would have your natural friends converted, and to that end you pray for them, mourn over them, many a sigh, and many a tear, it may be, they have cost you; but they live in the flesh still, are carnal still. Oh let not an holy conversation be wanting, that may further their conversion, 1 Cor. 7.16, 17. And if any obey not the Word, they also may be won, without the word, by your Godly conversation, 1 Pet. 3.1. And if they be not drawn thereby to a love of the truth, yet their mouths will be stopped, that they cannot speak against it. Would it not be a comfortable thing, to have a carnal father speak thus of his godly son, or daughter, to wit, I was unwilling my children should go so often to hear Sermons, and be so often at Conferences, and private fasts, and the like; But I have observed, that since they professed Religion, and gave themselves to pray, and read the Scriptures, They have been much more dutiful to us their parents then before, and they are more diligent in their callings. If this be the worst, they shall have liberty to profess the Gospel still. The like I might speak of other relations but should carnal parents or friends have cause by your lose or un even-walking to speak evil of the ways of God, it would be very uncomfortable to you, and dishonourable to the Gospel. I shall conclude in the words of the Apostle, Phil. 4.8. Finally, Brethren, Whatsoever things are true, Whatsoever things are honest, just, pure, lovely, or of good report. If there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things, and the God of peace shall be with you. vers. 9  
One objection had need to be answered, before I end, and that is this; May some say, you have exhorted us to holiness, and the Apostle tells us, 2 Tim. 3.12. All that will live godly in Christ Jesus, shall suffer persecution.  
Object. How may we be encouraged and strengthened against the fears of persecution?  
Solu. I answer, First pray to God, that he will furnish you with suffering graces, against persecuting times, Colos. 1.9.10, 11. Secondly improve your interest through Christ in the promises, and believe, that the more sufferings for Christ, the more comfort by Christ, 2 Cor. 1.5. The more sufferings the more holiness, Heb. 12.10. The more sufferings the more happiness: 1 Pet. 4.14. Only take heed of suffering as an evil doer, verses 15.16. And if any suffer as a Christian, Christ will suffer with him, Isa. 63.9. Christ will share with you in your suffering persecution. Acts 9.4, 5. And you shall share with Christ in glory, Rom. 8.17. But you must be holy in sufferings also, praying for them that persecute you, as Christ taught and practised: and so did his Martyr Stephen, 7.60. Lord lay not this sin to their charge: And so let us pray for them that now disturbed us.  
FINIS.