A shadow OF THE VICTORY OF CHRIST, Represented to the Honourable House of COMMONS, IN A SERMON Preached at Margaret's Westminster on the Day of the public Fast, Octob. 28. 1646. By JOHN MAYNARD, Minister of the Gospel at Mayfield in SUSSEX. Rev. 17. 12. And the ten horns which thou sawest are ten Kings, which have received no kingdom as yet: but receive power as Kings one hour with the Beast. 13These have one mind, and shall give their power and strength unto the Beast. 14These shall make war with the lamb, and the lamb shall overcome them: For He is Lord of lords, and King of kings, and they that are with Him are called, and chosen, and faithful. LONDON: Printed by F: Neile for Samuel Gellibrand, and are to be sold at his Shop at the brazen Serpent in Paul's churchyard. 1646. TO THE honourable House of COMMONS Assembled In PARLIAMENT. WHen Joshua was by Jericho, there stood a man over Iosh. 5. 13, 14▪ against him with his sword drawn in his hand; and Joshua seemeth in a military way to examine him, Art thou for us, or for our adversaries? Nay (saith he) but as Captain of the host of the Lord am I now come. This answer maketh him fall on his face to the earth and worship; acknowledging Him for Commander in chief, and humbly subjecting himself to Him as His lieutenant general, ready to receive His Commands: What saith my Lord unto his servant? It is one of the greatest▪ honours the sons of men are capable of here on earth, to follow the ensigns of this victorious Captain of the Lord's host▪ and to wait upon his triumphant chariot. If herein the Lord hath honoured You above many thousands of your brethren, it concerneth You much to imitate Joshua▪ First, as he questioned the Son of God whom he knew not in that apparition at the first sight; so ye knowing Christ to be that Captain of the Lord's host, who will subdue all things to Himself, ought in an holy jealousy to search your own hearts, and to examine all your counsels and proceedings: Are we in these things for Christ, or for His adversaries, for Him or against Him? Secondly, I beseech You be willing to lie low before him and to say, What saith our Lord unto His servants? Ye expect not His immediate voice, and therefore in all humility hear Him by His ambassadors, when they speak according to their Commission, as if His mandates were delivered unto You by His own mouth. Admirable is that of Valentinian recorded Theod. ●. 4. cap. 6. by Theodoret, when Ambrose had freely reproved some things amiss in his government, said the Emperor, I knew well thy zeal and courage, and therefore was so far from opposing, that I was forward to promote thine election to this pastoral charge: Go on therefore to cure the diseases of our Souls according to the prescript of God's Word▪ And it is reported of Albert Duke of Mickleburgh▪ that when a flattering Courtier sought to incense him against a Preacher for dealing roundly with him; He told him, he loved the man so much the better, and willed him in his name to give him thanks for his pious Sermon▪ If Ye follow Christ as your Captain, not turning to the right hand or to the left, who knoweth whether after six years compassing the w●ls of Jericho, they may not on the seventh fall to the ground before You. The Lord Jesus direct You by His Spirit, and gird You with His strength, to endure unto the end, that no man take Your Crown. So prayeth Your unworthy Servant in the Lord, JOHN MAYNARD. Die Mercurii: 28 Octob. 1646. ORdered by the Commons Assembled in Parliament, That colonel Stapeley do from this House give thanks to Mr. Maynard for the great pains he took in the Sermon he Preached this day, at the entreaty of this House, at St. Margaret's Westminster (it being the Day of public Humiliation) and desire him to Print his Sermon. And he is to have the like privilege in Printing of it, as others in the like kind usually have had. H: Elsing Cler. Parl: Dom: Com. I Appoint Samuel Gellibrand to Print my Sermon. John Maynard. A SERMON Preached before the Honourable House of COMMONS. Phil. ●. 21. — According to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself. THe Apostle giveth a large testimony to the Saints of Philippi concerning the sincerity and eminency of their graces; yet not being satisfied with the measure to which they had attained, he presseth them to a farther growth and progress: And for this end having laid before them his own example, he exhorteth them, Brethren, be followers of us, Ver. 17. and mark them which walk so, as ye have us for an example. Which exhortation he enforceth by two main arguments: 1 From the baseness of their way, who took a contrary course, and the woeful issue of that way: they were enemies to Ver. 18, 19 the cross of Christ, their God was their belly, their glory was in their shame, they minded earthly things: the issue is answerable, their end is destruction. 2 From the excellency of the way wherein he walked, and V. 20. 21. the blessed and glorious issue of that way. His way is described in these words, Our conversation is in heaven: the issue in the words following: where he showeth, that as the conversation of the Saints is in heaven, so their expectation is from heaven. Where may be observed, 1. The Person whose appearing they expect, The Lord Jesus Christ, their Saviour, in whom all their hopes are treasured up. 2. The fruit of His appearing, and that is a glorious change to be wrought in their whole man, though that of the body only, be here expressed. In this change may be noted four things. 1. The terminus à quo, the condition wherein their bodies shall be found before they are transformed, a state of vileness. Secondly, The terminus ad quem, the condition into which they shall be changed, a state of glory. Thirdly, The pattern according to which they shall be changed, the glorious body of Christ. Fourthly, The power by which this glorious change shall be wrought, and that is the efficacy or working of Christ, whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself: which is the thing I intend to insist upon. This change is wonderful, that such vile bodies should be transformed into a condition so exceedingly glorious, yet no way incredible, if we consider that it shall be done by the working of him, of whom it was prophesied of old, His Name shall be called wonderful, The mighty God, who wrought such wonders Isa. 9 6. in the days of his humiliation, and discovered so much of God in the form of a servant, and (which was the height of wonders) when he was dead, by his own power, by the Almighty working of his eternal Spirit, and Divine nature, raised himself from death to life. So that here we see the Apostle ascendeth very high in asserting this truth, which seemeth so far above reason: he hath recourse to Christ his omnipotency, who hath all power in heaven and earth, and is able to subdue all things to himself, and not only the power, but the efficacy, the working, {non-Roman} {non-Roman} {non-Roman} {non-Roman} {non-Roman}. acting, exerting of his Almighty arm. As if he had said, let the materials be never so untoward and seemingly uncapable of that form which is to be put upon them, if they fall into the ha●ds of Christ, he is able to work them into any shape: he can of stones raise up children unto Abraham, and of carcases mouldered into dust, raise up bodies like to his own glorious body. And in as much as the Apostle doth not confine his speech to this particular of changing the bodies of the Saints, but enlargeth himself in an universal expression of the efficacy or working of Christ's Almighty power, whereby he is able to subdue all things to himself; I purpose to follow him herein, presenting you with this observation from the text, that, Jesus Christ can and will effectually subdue all things to himself. Doct. The Spirit of God hath expressed the Majesty and Almighty power of Christ in a lofty style, Jesus Christ who is the faithful witness and the first begotten of the dead, and the Prince of the Kings of Rev. 1. 5. 7. 8. the earth. Behold he cometh with clouds, and every eye shall see him, and they also which pierced him: and all the kindreds of the Earth shall w●y'e because of him: even so Amen. I am Alpha and Omega, The Beginning and the Ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, {non-Roman} {non-Roman} {non-Roman} {non-Roman} {non-Roman}. The Almighty; The Alpha and beginning who gave being and beginning to all things, the Omega, and the ending, who giveth ending unto all, or putteth them into their last condition, bringeth all things to their uttermost period and final issue. He shall put down all rule 1 Cor. 15. 24, 25▪ and all authority and power. For he must reign till he hath put all enemies under his feet. By him were all things created that are in heaven, and that Col. 1. 16, 17. are in earth, &c. all things were created by him and for him: The most mighty and excellent among all the creatures were created by him, and therefore must be subordinate to him, they were created for him, and therefore must be subservient to him, either by a voluntary submission, or a compulsive subjection, {non-Roman} {non-Roman} {non-Roman} {non-Roman} {non-Roman}, and by him all things consist. Their beings have no consistency, but would dissolve, the frame of their nature would be disjointed and fall asunder, did not he hold them together, and therefore how easy is it for him to subdue them to himself. He that by the word of his power upholdeth all things from sinking into nothing, can without the least difficulty Heb. 1. 3. subdue all things to himself. A man that holdeth a lump of dust in his hand (which hath no consistency but only by the hand that holdeth it together, but would fall asunder, and scatter as soon as he letteth it go) can easily cast it at his feet, and trample on it at his pleasure. Much more may Christ, who gave being to all the creatures, and now supporteth their beings, bring them under as he pleaseth. For the farther clearing and strengthening of this truth, let us consider the various workings and different ways of exercising this power of his, for the subduing of all things to himself. First, In regard of different objects. Secondly, In respect of different ends and uses. Thirdly, In regard of difference of times. Fourthly, when there seemeth no difference in respect of objects, ends or times, he may according to the counsel of his own will work diversely, for the more glorious manifestation of his wisdom and power: as a curious artisan may vary his workmanship upon the same kind of materials, intended for the same use, to give farther proof of his skill and abilities. But because these are so complicated and interwoven, that the three last will fall in with the first, and it would require much time to pursue every one of them distinctly; I purpose to insist only upon the first, taking the rest in collaterally. These objects which Christ hath to work upon, are either rational creatures, or such as are void of the principles of reason. The former are Angels or men. The Angels which are holy He preserveth in that state of subjection 1 to Himself wherein they continued when the rest left their habitation, upholding them not only in their beings, but in the integrity and perfection of their beings, whose perfection is their voluntary subordination to the Son of God, Christ Jesus, who is the Head of all principality and power: Col. 2. 10▪ and so they are ministering Spirits unto Him, employed as a Convoy to his people in the wilderness of the world, until they arrive at that eternal rest which he hath purchased for them. As for the apostate angels, by an act of justice and power, 2 He cast them down into everlasting chains under darkness, where he holdeth them prisoners until the great Assize, the ● Pet 2. 4. Jude 6. judgement of the last day. And though for the present He is not pleased to keep them close prisoners, but seemeth to give them the liberty of the prison, and sometime to lengthen their chains, suffering them to range abroad for the executing of his judgements in divers kinds upon the wicked, and for the exercise and trial of the godly (out of all which He getteth glory to His great Name) yet still He keepeth them chained; that is, under the restraint of His Almighty Arm, not permitting them to stir an inch beyond the bounds which He hath set them: as themselves intimated when they begged leave of Him to enter into the herd of swine, and when Satan petitioned the Lord for a Commission to plunder holy Job, and then to have it enlarged for afflicting of his person; when the Lord gave him greatest liberty, it was with limitation: But save his life. So that the devils now are Job 2. 6▪ Christ His prisoners, and should not be suffered to walk up and down the world, had He not use of them for such ends as those, formerly hinted. However they stir not one foot without their keeper, viz. the overruling power of Christ. But at the last day they shall be fully and for ever subdued by the almighty power of Christ, never to stir more against any of His. Yea these apostate angels shall be so absolutely brought under by Christ, that His very servants shall sit in judgement upon them. I am persuaded 1 Cor. 6. 5▪ it will be a wonderful torment to these proud spirits (who have affected a principality, yea a godhead in the world) to be convented before men as their judges, who were their inferiors by Creation, and are of the seed of that woman, who was long since vanquished by the devil. But as these Angels good and evil are invisible spirits, so the workings of Christ in subduing them seem more invisible and secret, than those which He exerciseth upon those rational creatures which are visible, viz. men and women, which are to be considered in the next place. These we may look upon either, 1. as single persons; or, 2. as 3 associated and combined in Societies, Kingdoms, commonwealths, &c. As single persons they are either vessels of mercy and honour, or vessels of wrath and dishonour. The former He subdueth by the sceptre of His Gospel, and power of His grace, secretly, but effectually and infallibly, bowing and subjecting their souls and whole man to the government of His Spirit, constraining them by His love shed abroad in their hearts, and bringing them under a regiment of love, sweetening His commands with discoveries of His love, and (as it were) oiling His yoke with love, so making it easy to them, and teaching them to obey in love, and to walk in love as He hath loved them, and given Himself for them: giving His own Spirit possession of their hearts, and making them one with Himself, and so subjecting them to Himself as members to their Head. And this He doth by degrees, leaving something in them unsubdued, while they are absent from Him in the body (which as it is displeasing to Him, so it is grievous to them) but in the end He will not leave any thing in them either of soul or body unsuitable to Himself, but will bring them into a full subjection and conformity, transforming their bodies into the likeness of His own glorious body, and their souls into the likeness of His own perfect holiness, fullness of joy, and blessedness. But although He useth this sweet way of working with them for this blessed end, as that which is most direct and proper, yet sometimes He prepareth them by terrors, putting on the countenance of an enemy, and handling them roughly, as Joseph did his Brethren, dealing with 1 King. ●9▪ 11. 12. them in his approaches toward them as with the Prophet El●j●h, sending before him a great and strong wind, renting the mountains, and breaking in pieces the rocks; and after the wind an earthquake, and after the earthquake, a fire; dreadful representations of His wrath, and convictions of their guilt: but after cometh the still, soft voice, the Word of promise and reconciliation, a word of peace and pardon. Yea when they are in some degree subdued to Him, He doth sometime suffer them to be exercised with renewed terrors on their spirits, and outward afflictions, to be troubled on every side, with fightings without, and fears within, to prepare them for farther subjection and 2 Cor. 7. 5. conformity to Himself. The workings of Christ in this kind have been more glorious and conspicuous in some ages than in others: as in the times of the Apostles and the ages next after, when thousands were subdued at once, Cities and Nations were brought in subjection to Christ: the devil raged, and stirred up his instruments to oppose the growth of Christ His kingdom with fire and sword: Nec eò minùs ad Apostolorum vocem gentes commoventur: principum aulae legionesque adeo ipsae in Christi partes propendent & nutant, as one saith, the world is stirred notwithstanding at the summons of Christ His ambassadors, and the Courts of Princes, and the legions of military men are ready to yield and bow their ensigns to the Majesty of the Lord Jesus. What a cordial was that which the Apostle sent to these believers at Philippi, All the Saints salute you, chiefly those of Caesar's household. A Phil. 4. 22. glorious spectacle to see the banner of Christ advanced upon the turrets of Nero his palace. So when Luther was raised up to restore the light, there was another age wherein Christ was pleased in a more than ordinary manner to show himself victorious. The States of the Empire meeting at Noremberg, thought to moderate things according to principles of policy: But what saith Luther to this? Longè aliter conclusum est in coelo quam Norembergae: The conclusion made in Heaven differed much from that at Noremberg: as the event demonstrated. Certatim enim Principes & Civitates Imperii doctrinam repurgatam introduxerunt: For the Princes and imperial Cities did (as it were) outvie each other in a speedy entertainment of the reformed Religion. Christ would not wait the leisure of the State. But as for the vessels of wrath, although he dealeth diversely 4 with them in regard of his intermediate dispensations, raising some of them to great dignity, arming them with power, that so He may make his power known upon them: leaving others in a low condition, and thereby disarming their malice: giving some of them Esau his portion, the dew of heaven, and the fatness of the earth, suffering them to fat themselves to the day of slaughter, and to aggravate their condemnation by unthankfulness: denying others this worldly abundance, and laying upon them many temporal judgements as the beginnings of sorrows, whereby their stubborness becometh more unexcusable: suffering some of them to break forth into more outrageous wickedness; circumscribing others within the circle of morality, and civility: enduring some of them with much long-suffering and patience; surprising others in their sins, not suffering them to live out half their days: bringing some of them under powerful means of salvation, giving them precious opportunities, which they despise or neglect, shutting others out of the confines of his Church, &c. yet in the issue he subdueth them all by strong hand, breaking them by his power, because they stoop not to his authority: and as he doth execute exemplary vengeance upon many of them in this life, so at the last day He will bring them all under his feet, and cast them into utter darkness, where they shall never be able to lift up their heads or hands against Him or his. But there is yet another consideration of men and women, as 5 they are united or combined in Societies, commonwealths, &c. Some of these He so far subdueth, as to cause them to promote His Cause, propagate His Gospel, protect His Church, as the Kingdom of Israel in the days of David and Solomon, the Kingdom of Judah in the reign of Jehoshaphat, Hezekiah, &c. the Roman Empire under Constantine, Valentinian, Theodosius, &c. Others He so ordereth, as to make them suffer his Church to sojourn among them, as Egypt in the days of that Pharaoh who knew Joseph, the Empire of Rome in the times of Vespasian, Titus, Nerva, Antoninus Pius, Pro●us. Some of them He hath reduced to more moderation, after they began to stretch out their hands to vex certain of the Church, as it is said of Trajane, Adrian, Antoninus Verus; and others. But as for those whose rage was implacable, hath not the Lord Christ set His face against them for evil, rebuking Kings and Rulers for His people's sake, saying, Touch not mine anointed, and do my Prophets no harm, destroying Noble and royal Families, subverting commonwealths and Empires, that he might avenge the blood of his Saints, cutting off Nero, Domitian, and others, degrading Dioclesian and his Colleague. In such cases sometimes he destroyeth some of his enemies by others, expelling one poison by an other, sometime putting a two-edged sword into the hands of his Saints, & giving them this honour to become victorious instruments of his wrath upon His and their enemies. But at the length, He will break in pieces the iron and the Dan. 2. 35. clay, the brass, the silver and the gold, and make them like the chaff of the summer threshing fl●ores, and the wind shall carry them away, and no place shall be found for them. He will put down all rule, and all authority and power. Lastly, As for creatures void of reason, I will not now dispute 6. that question, whether after the world's dissolution the species or several kind of creatures shall be restored; But thus, Christ hath already in part subdued, and shall in the end bring under all those creatures not endowed with the principles of reason, and amongst these the very towns, cities, buildings wherein he hath been dishonoured. Some experience of this the world hath already had, in the Eastern Babylon, in the City of Jerusalem, after that Himself was crucified there, his Gospel rejected, his people persecuted, to what a fearful desolation did he bring it by the hands of the Romans! and the Temple itself when it was kept up as a Monument of defiance against him, for the continuance o those sacrifices which were abolished by his death, by a people blaspheming his Name, he destroyed it: and when that wretched people attempted to rebuild it, through the encouragement of Julian the Apostate, he fully (as is conceived) accomplished his prophecy upon it, not leaving one stone upon another. And at this day how are the expectations of the Saints raised to see the power of Christ put forth in subduing, and consuming with fire the Western Babylon, the City of Rome, in which was found the blood of Prophets, and of Saints, and of all that Rev. 18. 24. were slain upon the earth. In a word, as the creatures have been abused or desired by the sins of men to the dishonour of Christ, being made either instruments of rebellion against him, or corrivals with him, the hearts of men being stolen away from him, and going a-whoring after the creatures, so shall all be subdued by his mighty working. The old world was subdued by a flood of waters. But the heavens and the earth which are now, by the same ● Pet. 3. 6, 7. word are kept in store, reserved unto fire against the day of Judgement, and perdition of ungodly men. If any ask why the world standeth so long, being planted and peopled with rebels, and silled with rebellion against Christ? The Apostle telleth us, it is kept in store by his word: the world would dissolve like water when it is poured on the ground, were it not kept in store as in a vessel, by the word and will of Christ until the appointed time, and then the heavens V. 10, 11. shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burnt up: both the works of God (which some call the works of nature) and the works of man, the works of art, and all these things shall be dissolved. V. 13. nevertheless (saith the Apostle) we, according to his promise look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness. If the frame of heaven and earth shall be renewed, and so kept pure from all spot of sin to eternity, this may be a farther evidence to the truth in hand, that Christ by His mighty working shall subdue all things to himself. But what is the last enemy that shall be brought under? The 1 Cor. 15. 26. 54. Apostle telleth us, The last enemy that shall be destroyed, is Death. Then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. And the Apostle seemeth, as one ravished, with assurance of this victory over death, to sing an {non-Roman} {non-Roman} {non-Roman} {non-Roman} {non-Roman}, a song of triumph, insulting over this old and last enemy: O death where is thy sting? O grave where is thy victory? The sting of death is sin, and the strength of sin is the Law. But thanks be unto God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. This is therefore for the comfort of the Church of Christ against use 1. all her enemies. Their workings, plots, contrivings, attempts, have been many and desperate from age to age and particularly in this age, in this land and elsewhere: and I believe the people of God do generally expect they should go on Cant. ●. 4. whilst they have power, even until Antichrist be destroyed. The Church is said to be terrible as an Army with banners. A learned expositor taking this song for a prophecy of the state of the Church from Solomon's time unto the Jews conversion, and carrying on his interpretation according to the succession of time, took this place to note the condition of the Church from about the beginning of Queen Eliza●eths reign, and so downward until the destruction of the Pope, and Turk; that in these days the Church which had been trodden under foot in former ages, should become formidable to her enemies as an army with banners, and thence inferreth that these times should be plenabellicis tumultibus full of the troubles and tumults of war between the Church and her enemies: we have had much experience of this, and are likely to have more, wheresoever the seat of the war shall be: Rev. 16. 16. The great battle of Armageddon (I am persuaded) is yet to come. And therefore I expect that the adversaries should exercise the height of their policy, and put forth the uttermost of their power, finding themselves stoutly assaulted by this Army with banners. But here is the comfort of the Church, the mighty virtue and working of Christ shall subdue them all. It is said, that the Lord Christ shall consume that man of sin with the spirit 2 Thes. 2. 8. or breath of His mouth, and destroy him with the brightness of His coming. Certainly Christ His approaches have been very glorious of late, and the Antichristian faction hath been much weakened by Him: very much of the power of Christ hath been put forth against those who have sided with the Beast. But I am persuaded the time is at hand, when Christ shall come in a more glorious manner, and give forth more admirable demonstrations of His power in subduing those enemies, who have for so long a time opposed and exalted themselves against Him. For I conceive we are under the seventh trumpet, to which all the seven vials full of the wrath of God, to be emptied upon the enemies of the Church, do belong; and under the fourth vial poured on the Sun. Now mark what is said upon the sounding of the seventh trumpet. And the seventh Angel sounded, and there Revel. 11. 15, 16, 17. were great voices in heaven, saying, The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of His Christ, and He shall reign for ever and ever. Now is the time when Christ shall conquer kingdoms, and subdue Nations to Himself, to reign over them for ever. And the four and twenty Elders which sat before God on their seats, fell upon their faces, and worshipped God, saying, We give thee thanks, O Lord God Almighty, which art, and wast, and art to come; because thou hast taken to thee thy great power, and hast reigned. Where they seem to speak of Christ as of some mighty Prince, who seeing his kingdom to be invaded by foreign enemies, suffereth them to go on in acts of hostility for a time, as if he had laid by his great power: but when he seeth his time, taketh up his power again, raiseth his Armies to suppress them. So Christ may seem for divers ages to have laid by His great power, suffering the Dragon and his Angels, and then the Beast and his ten horns to reign and domineer: But at the sounding of the seventh trumpet, He should take to Himself His great power and reign. And therefore now let the people of God expect wonders to be wrought by the great power of Christ daily. It followeth, And the Nations were angry: the devil being cast out of the throne by Christ, stirreth up his vassals to anger: and we have had great experience of their fury. Some of them have seemed even mad with anger, so as to run on desperately upon their own ruin, when the hand of God hath been apparently against them, when the Lord hath blasted their counsels, crossed and confounded their plots, broken their strength, leaving them no such grounds of hope as might encourage rational men, yet on they would, and why? they were angry, and their anger and rage carried them headlong. But I believe Christ will anger them yet more, whilst He goeth on conquering, and to conquer. Again the Elders proceed in their doxology, And thy wrath is come, and the time of the dead, that they should be judged; the time when Christ should judge, and avenge the cause of His servants that have been slain, by executing vengeance on their bloody enemies: And that thou shouldst give reward to thy servants the Prophets, and to thy Saints, and to them that fear thy Name, small and great, and shouldst destroy them that destroy the earth: Christ shall raise the spirits, and encourage the hearts of his despised Ministers and people, and destroy their destroyers. This hath been done in part, and shall be more fully accomplished. And the Temple of God was opened in heaven: the glory of Christ's Church shall become more visible, and it shall have a free and open passage, many which were without, entering into it: And there was seen 〈◊〉 his Temple the Ark of his Testament: the secrets of his kingdom shall be manifested, the Ark itself that was hidden from the multitude within the veil, shall be discovered. And there were lightnings, and voices, and thunderings, and great hail: dreadful judgements upon those who will not see and submit to the mighty power of Christ: And an earthquake, dreadful concussions, great changes and alterations in the kingdoms of the world. The hearts of God his people should now be filled with expectation of the glorious acts of Christ, in as much as the time is come that He hath taken to Himself His great power. Secondly, If Christ most certainly will subdue all things to Himself; use 2. it is our wisdom willingly to stoop unto Him. Let us assure ourselves, Christ will not part with his royalties in the least degree. He will maintain to the uttermost his supremacy, and sovereign authority. We must bow or break: one way or other we shall undoubtedly be brought under, either we must willingly yield to the golden sceptre of his love, or we shall be crushed with the iron rod of his wrath. Joseph (I conceive) was a type of Christ both in his abasement and exaltation: when he was made ruler over the land of Egypt, it is said, they cried or proclaimed before him; Bow the knee: let all people throughout the Knigdom submit G●n. 41. 43. to his authority. So when Christ for his father's glory and man's salvation, had greatly humbled Himself, even to the death of the cross, God highly exalted Him, and gave him a Name above every Name, that at the Name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth. He proclaimed before Him throughout heaven, earth and hell, Bow the knee: All, men, angels, devils and other creatures shall be subjected to Him. A necessity lieth upon us, and woe unto us if we do not willingly submit. For this end take these three considerations. 1. The glorious and magnificent titles attributed to Christ in 1. 1 Tim. 6. 15. Scripture. The Blessed and only Potentate, earthly Potentates have but a shadow of power in comparison of Him, though all due honour and subjection must be given them by those under their Government. But in respect of Christ their power and authority is no more than the light of the stars in the presence of the Sun. He is Lord of Lords: other Lords are but his vassals, King of Kings, other Kings are but his Subjects: so they are de jure, so they ought to be: and they shall de facto, actually at one time or other, one way or other, be brought under. Yea He hath this Name written upon his thigh, and upon his vesture, King of Rev. 19 16. Kings, and Lord of Lords. The Name which He weareth on His lower parts, upon the skirt of his robe, proclaimeth Him King of Kings, and Lord of Lords. If we poor worms are so apt to tremble at the name of an earthly King or Ruler, Oh let all the powers of our souls prostrate themselves, and lie low before the King of Kings, and Lord of Lords. Secondly, consider what a blessed condition they are in, who 2 in sincerity have subjected themselves unto him. 1. In regard 1 of His singular love toward them. He is infinitely above all others the most gracious Master toward those whose spirits are subdued to His government. Saith the Spouse, His banner over Cant. 2. 4. me was love. What an encouragement is it to soldiers to have the love of their general! Thrice happy souls that have Christ for their Commander, and are led, governed and conducted by Him as their King and Captain of their salvation: His very banner over them is love: all His Commands are commands of love: all the service He requireth of them, is imposed in love: He never enjoineth them any thing but what is for their good: they are never losers by obeying his pleasure: all their losses come by their disobedience. He never putteth them upon any suffering, but it is done in love. He chasteneth us for our good, Heb 12. 10. that we might be partakers of His holiness. If He leadeth them into the field, and letteth them meet with any sharp encounters, Rom. 8. He maketh them more than conquerors. The Apostle having (as it were) searched Satan's muster-rolls, and taken a view of his several brigades, tribulation, distress, persecution, famine, nakedness, peril, sword (enemies of a terrible aspect to the eye of flesh, as the grim visages of Ariovistus his Germans were to Caesar's soldiers) he slighteth them all, in all these {non-Roman} {non-Roman} {non-Roman} {non-Roman} {non-Roman}, we do more than conquer, through him that loved us: it may seem more proper to have said, through the Almighty power of Christ our Captain: But he chooseth the sweet attribute of love, showing that it is a special act of his love that he leadeth on his followers to such conflicts, intending to make them happy gainers, more than conquerors. I believe so many would turn soldiers that we should want hands for other employments, if they could be assured of two things. First, to be entirely beloved of their Commander, as his own right arm. Secondly, that they should return with safety and victory. This is the happiness of all the servants and soldiers of Christ: He loveth them tenderly as the members of his own body, as the apple of his own eye. He will bring them off more than conquerors. Secondly, He delivereth all his faithful servants from all those cruel taskmasters to which they were enslaved. Sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are under grace. Oh what an Rom 6. 14. happiness is it to be freed from so many tyrannical monsters, to have the strength of pride, covetousness, lust, sensuality broken! This should wonderfully provoke us fully to yield up our spirits in subjection to Christ. Blessed is the Soul that maketh such a change, that is freed from the slavery of sin and Satan, carrying it on to destruction, and is now governed and led by Christ in the way of salvation. 3. He pitieth them in regard of the infirmities accompanying 3. them in his services, for which themselves mourn, against which they strive: and graciously spareth them as a Father spareth his son that serveth him. 4. Yea, He helpeth their infirmities, cometh in upon them by 4. his Spirit; when the work is too heavy for them, is a coworker with them, easeth their yoke, and delighteth to manifest his power in their weakness. 5. The happiness of his subjects and servants appeareth in 5. Psal. 58. 11. Prov. 11. 18. their reward, that is, 1. Sure. 2. Incomparable. 1. Sure. Verily there is a reward for the righteous. The wicked worketh a deceitful work: that is, a self-deceiving work, as the opposite member showeth: he that hath to do with sin, dealeth with a cheater, which promiseth gain, pleasure, satisfaction; but merely deceiveth him, payeth him with shame, sorrow, misery: but to him that loveth righteousness shall be a sure reward: righteousness and true holiness is such a kind of seed as never miscarrieth; he that soweth it is sure of a good harvest: it is a seed taken out of the granary of heaven: it will grow and prosper in any ground. Christ saith, Behold, I come quickly, and my reward is with me: His reward is ready. Those that serve Princes or States most faithfully, must wait long for their reward many times, though they whom they serve be very desirous to satisfy them, because their reward is not always with them, not always ready. I have 2 Tim. 4. fought a good fight (saith the Apostle) henceforth is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, &c. his Crown was ready for him before he was ready to wear it; it was laid up and kept in store for him. Secondly, the reward is incomparable, 1. In the service. 2. After it. 1. In the service: In scelere sceleris supplicium: sceleri paena coaetanea. Sin carrieth vengeance in it own bowels: sin and punishment are contemporary: fin itself is a misery; holiness itself is a reward. Now being made free from sin, and become the servants of God, ye have Rom. 6. 22. your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life. This is a certain truth (and the people of God find it by experience) that the present reward that goeth along with the work of Christ, the sweet refreshings which Christians meet with in the way of holiness, are far above all the pleasures of sin, and the best things which the world can bestow upon it lovers. That sweet peace of conscience, those tastes of heaven, those glimpses of glory, those beginnings of eternal life are far above all earthly comforts. But secondly, the reward that is prepared for them after their work is done, is more than they are able to desire or conceive. Exod. 33. 19, 20. Saith Moses, I beseech thee, show me thy glory. The Lord telleth him, Thou canst not see my face: for there shall no man see me and live: As if he had said, Moses, thou askest thou knowest not what: the weight of glory which would result from my face is more than thou art able to stand under in this mortal condition. That exceeding weight of glory which Christ hath provided for his people is so great, so incomparable, that they are not capable of it, until they be transformed into the likeness of Christ: it is more happiness than their hearts can hold in that estate wherein now they are. Oh that the Lord would give us hearts to believe these things really, as they are most sure and real truths! Doth not many a man think, if I could get into such a man's service, I were a man made. This is only true of the service of Christ: thou art more happy if thou hast him for thy Master, than if thou hadst all the men on earth for thy servants. His service is a greater preferment than the richest Crown under heaven. If our hearts were not wretchedly muddy, earthly, unbelieving, how could we sleep quietly until we were entertained by Christ in his service! Thirdly, consider the misery of those that do not yield subjection 3. to Him. No enemy so dreadful as Christ to them that stand out against Him. Who knoweth the power of thine anger? Little Psal. 90. 11. Luk. 19 27. do poor souls know the weight of his Almighty arm. Those mine enemies, which would not that I should reign over them, bring hither, and slay them before me, let me see them executed. Kings, Rulers, people conspire in rebellion against the Lord, and against His Christ: Let us break their hands asunder, and cast away their cords from us. Psal. 2. 3, 4, &c. Alas poor worms: He that sitteth in the heavens shall laugh, the Lord shall have them in derision. Then shall he speak unto them in his wrath, and vex them in his sore displeasure. That wrath which springeth out of the earth, which men of the world can show, seemeth terrible: but who is able to endure that wrath which is poured V. 9 10. down from Him that sitteth in heaven? Thou shalt break them with a rod of iron, thou shalt dash them in pieces like a potter's vessel. Then followeth the Use that now we are upon: Be wise now therefore O ye Kings, be instructed ye Judges of the earth. It is the wisdom of Kings and Rulers, yea, and of all degrees of people, to stoop to Him who can, and most certainly will, subdue all to Himself. Serve the Lord with fear, and rejoice with trembling. Kiss the Son rest he be angry, and ye perish in the way, when his wrath is kind●ed but a little. A little of His wrath is more dreadful than all the rage of man. Let us beg this wisdom from above, that we may be taught of God, in all humility to yield and submit to Christ. If a people rising up in rebellion against the Authority of the State could be fully assured of two things: first, that if upon summons they lay down their Arms and submit, they shall not only be pardoned, but much advantaged in their estates: and secondly, that if they remain obstinate, it will be the ruin of themselves, their families, and posterities, were it not mere madness to show themselves wilful? We are all from our birth enemies and rebels against Christ. The silver trumpet of the Gospel proclaimeth pardon, mercy, adoption, salvation, the promises of this life and that which is to come, to those that have been deepest in this rebellion, if they come in. On the contrary it is most certain, all that stand out against Christ in their natural estate and impenitency, shall be subdued to their everlasting ruin and destruction: For He must reign till he hath put all enemies under his feet. Thirdly, how careful should we be throughly to examine use 3. ourselves whether we be truly subjected to Christ, or not? whether His grace have bowed us that so we may be sure his power shall not break us; whether we are overpowered by his love, that so we may not be overwhelmed with his wrath? Beloved, this is one of the principal inquiries which we are to make throughout our whole lives. We are fallen upon times which are full of questions and controversies. I believe there have not been many ages since Christ's ascension, wherein more queries have been stirring, more doubts and disputes agitated, than in these days. Now I suppose a man of ordinary observation, may take notice of two sorts of people among us: Galli●es, mere spectators, that look on and care for none of these things, who mind the things of the world: the main question that seemeth to stick with them, is how they may compass their worldly ends, or how they may satisfy their lusts, and make provision for the flesh: these as they trouble not themselves to find out the truth of things in controversy, so they are securely negligent about this great enquiry, whether they are subjected unto Christ or not? Others are very busy in various disputes about things pertaining to religion, some of whom (I fear) take little or no care to be resolved in this great business, whether their spirits are effectually subdued to the Government of Christ. I beseech you let us, in the fear of God, set ourselves to study this point. If once we can by good evidence of Scripture rightly infer this conclusion, that our souls are brought into a willing subjection to the Lord Jesus Christ, that we are loyal Subjects to the King of Israel, we may assure ourselves that The Spirit of Christ will lead us by the light of His word into all necessary truth. And though we be not able to answer every cavil, and frivolous objection made against some particular truth, yet if we can confute those arguments bent against the saving work of Christ upon our souls, in reducing us under the sceptre of His Gospel, we shall find more solid comfort and sweet satisfaction, than those that toss the word of God in restless and doubtful disputes; and shall be sure to have so much knowledge as may serve to light us the way to heaven. 1 Then are our minds, understandings and judgements, 1. subdued to the wisdom of Christ, revealed in His word? In reference to this head, let us put ourselves to these three interrogatories. 1. Do we verily account all that wisdom to be mere foolishness, which lifteth up itself against any truth of Christ? Do we sincerely desire and endeavour, to have every thought within us captivated under the power of His truth? Do we abhor it as no less than a degree of rebellion against Christ, when we find any imaginations, any carnal reasonings in our minds crossing the Gospel of Christ in any part? For instance: it is one of the great truths of Christ which the Apostle hath taught us by the Spirit of Christ: godliness is profitable unto all things, having 1 Tim. 4. 8, 9 promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come. And first he confirmeth it as a most certain truth, This is a faithful saying. Secondly, he valueth it as a most precious truth, and worthy of all acceptation. Thirdly, he justifieth it as an approved, experimented truth. For therefore we both labour and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living God, who is the Saviour of all men, especially of those that believe. Beloved, if every one here present were examined upon this interrogatory, and conscience were to make the answer, how few would be able to approve themselves in the sight of God, as true and loyal subjects unto Christ? Do not many of you entertain such thoughts as these in your hearts? If I should observe the Lord His day according to the strict rule of godliness, if in the course of my life I shall make godliness my rule in performing duties in secret, in my family, in public, in buying, selling, in all the business of my calling, in conversing with others, if I should regulate all my votes in Parliament according to the principles of godliness, I might lose my friends, my repute, many advantages for my estate, much prejudice if not ruin myself and my posterity? What answer the tongue would give I know not; but I am persuaded many an one's conscience within would plead guilty. This argueth non-subjection to the sceptre of Christ, and rebellion against His sovereignty. Saith Christ, Whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him, shall never Ioh. 4. 14. thirst; but the water that I shall give him, shall be in him a well of living water, springing up into everlasting life. Here is a point of divine wisdom uttered by the mouth of Christ Himself: Are not many that read and hear this so far from subjecting their reason to it, that they are ready to scorn or slight it? Let them have wine and strong drink, their pleasures, let their cisterns be filled with worldly abundance, and they do not much trouble themselves about this living water: they can live without it. Their minds are not subdued to the wisdom of Christ. But he that looketh upon Christ as a fountain of living water, believing verily that if once he hath him dwelling in him, he shall never be exhausted and drawn dry, but that this spring of grace and spiritual consolation shall stream forth into the ocean and full sea of everlasting glory. He whose thirsty soul cannot be satisfied without the saving graces and comforts of Christ's Spirit, fully submitting himself to this wisdom of Christ, and renouncing sense and reason which seemeth to contradict it: he may say, I am a subject of Christ's sceptre, the Lord Jesus is my Christ and King. Again saith Christ, Enter ye in at the strait gate, for wide is the gate, Matth 7. 13, 14 and bread is the way that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat. Because straight is the gate, and narrow is the way which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. Strive to enter in at the Luk. 13, 24. strait gate: for many I say unto you will seek to enter in, and shall not be able. Are your minds subjected to the wisdom of Christ discovered in these truths? Are ye verily persuaded that the gate is straight, and the way narrow, that it requireth much striving and contending to enter, that a cold, sluggish, common, formal way of seeking will never give you entrance? If not, if you please yourselves in your own conceits and vain imaginations, contrary to the wisdom of Christ, that it is an easy thing to go to heaven, ye hope to be saved as well as the best, though ye hold on in an easy broad way, sliding down the hill, carried with the stream of the world, the tide of your lusts, the wind of Satan's suggestions, and applause of the multitude, assure yourselves ye are rebels against Christ: ye oppose your carnal conceits, and exalt your blind reason against His heavenly wisdom. Secondly, if your understandings be subdued to the wisdom of Christ, than ye will yield to particular truths of Christ, notwithstanding former engagements to the contrary. A man cannot approve his loyalty to that Prince or State to whom he oweth allegiance, unless he renounce contrary engagements to a foreign Prince, If by education, mistake, weakness of judgement, seducements of others, thou hast been engaged in defence of any error, and because of such prejudice will stiffly maintain it against the contrary truth of Christ, what is this but rebellion against the wisdom of Christ. But that is a sweet, gracious, loyal spirit, that is freely ready to quit all engagements for receiving of any truth of Christ, and is content that all his own notions should fall to the ground, that the wisdom and truth of Christ might be exalted and maintained in it just and full authority. Thirdly, when thy mind and judgement stoopeth to the truth of Christ held forth by such Instruments as the proud world despiseth, so soon as ever thou seest the King's stamp upon it, that is so soon as thou findest Christ His authority for it: not regarding by whom it is presented to thee, but looking up to Him who sitteth at the right hand of God, humbly subjectest thyself to his wisdom. Secondly, if a man be brought into subjection unto Christ, 2. then is his will subdued to and by the Spirit of Christ. Barnabas being sent from the Church of Jerusalem to confirm the new converts of Antioch, When he came and had seen the grace of God, was Act 11▪ 22, ●3 glad, and exhorted them all that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord. As if he had said, Brethren, I rejoice to see these happy beginnings, to see the kingdom of Christ thus enlarged, and withal let me exhort you, that ye yield up your wills fully and steadfastly unto Him; cleaving to Him with purpose of heart. This shall be a sweet evidence to your souls, that ye are indeed subjected to Him. That is a real subjection of a loyal-hearted people to Christ, when they are resolvedly His; not when they have some slight inclinations toward him, but when the purpose of their heart is fixed upon Him, and they are steadfastly resolved that Christ shall give law to them. It is grievous to a loyal subject of Christ to have any thing remaining in his will that savoureth of rebellion against Christ, any renitency, any unwillingness and indisposedness to the work of Christ. Thirdly, when a man is subjected unto Christ, his affections 3. are subdued to Him. He obeyeth Christ, and he obeyeth Him in love; he shuneth sin, and he loveth to avoid it. He doth the will of Christ with a desire exceeding his performance and ability. A carnal person not subjected to Christ, his performances exceed his affections, he doth many outward services to which he hath no heart. Again, the loyal subject delighteth in his subjection. He would not for a world be free from this yoke. Whereas those rebels said, Let us break their bonds asunder, and cast away Psal. 2. their cords from us: he saith from the bottom of his heart, Blessed be God that ever He brought me under the government of his Son, that instead of a slave of Satan, He hath made me a subject to the King of glory. As it is said of one of our English Martyrs, that he kissed the stake, saying, Welcome the cross of Christ, welcome everlasting life. So saith he whose heart is subjected to the Lord Jesus, welcome the sweet yoke of Christ, the very entrance into everlasting life. I rejoice in the Law of God, saith Paul, I delight Rom. 7. to do thy will O my God: yea thy law is within my heart, or Psal. 40. 8. in the midst of my bowels, saith David. He professeth it was his delight to do the will of God, and giveth two reasons: the former employed in those words [O my God] thou hast given me thyself for my gracious God and portion, and therefore it is my delight to give up myself to thee in obedience. The second expressed in these, Thy Law is within my heart. When the Law of God is once lodged within a man, written in his heart, fixed in his bowels, then is he a loyal subject of Christ, and goeth on in the way of holiness with rejoicing. he delighteth in godly sorrow for his disloyalties: and whereas others strive to forget and shake off the fear of God, he rejoiceth to find his heart overawed by Christ: It is delightful to him to curb his lusts, to control his own will: It is the joy of his heart to see these enemies of Christ within his own soul, lie slain before Him. Fourthly, He that is a true subject of Christ, rejoiceth to see 4. the kingdom of Christ enlarged, his cause prosper, his implacable enemies brought under; but especially to see rebels so subdued, as to become loyal and obedient subjects. What spectacle so glorious in his eye as to see Christ victorious, to behold the Captain of his salvation on a day of triumph? Those that are otherwise affected, show of what spirit they are, whatever they pretend: I heard a voice from heaven, come out of her my people, that ye Rev. 18. 4, 5. be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues. For her sins have reached unto heaven, and God hath remembered her iniquities. Reward her even as she hath rewarded you▪ and double unto her double according to her works. If this be a voice from heaven, what shall we think of the clamour of those that contradict it? is not that a voice from hell? It followeth in that place, how the enemies of Christ mourned at the funeral of the whore of Babylon, as many of late seemed to be vexed at the fall and weakening of them that fought for the whore. But what saith the holy Ghost? rejoice Ver▪ 20. over her, thou heaven, [thou Church of Christ] and ye holy Apostles and Prophets: for God hath avenged you on her. And after these Cap. 19 1. &c. things, I heard a great voice of much people in heaven, saying, Alleluia: salvation, and glory, and honour, and power unto the Lord our God. For true and righteous are his judgements, for he hath judged the great whore which did corrupt the earth with her fornication, and hath avenged the blood of His servants at her hand. They that belong to the kingdom of Christ rejoice and give thanks in this case: who are they that lament but those that belong to the prince of darkness? Fourthly, This should stir up all who are loyal-hearted subjects use 4. of Christ, to labour more fully to subject themselves unto him. And first endeavour to take deeper rooting in Christ by 1 faith, that ye may partake more of the power and Spirit of Christ▪ for He according to his working is able to subdue all things to Himself. The more ye have of Christ, the more shall your spirits be subjected unto Christ. Dilate your hearts by faith in sweet and free meditations on the promises, that ye may let in more of Christ into your souls. His entrance into the soul is the ruin of Satan's strong holds: when He is exalted in the heart, lust will sink, corruption will be weakened. Meditations on the Law, and on the wrath of God may be of great use to prepare the way of Christ: but it is the presence and power of Christ possessing the heart, which doth the work. For this purpose the Son ● Ioh. 3▪ 8. of God was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the devil: that is spoken of his manifestation to the world in general. It holdeth true in this case, the more Christ is manifested to any believer in particular, the more are the works of the devil destroyed in him, and the more is that soul subjected unto Christ. The cause why Satan's bulwarks are not more fully demolished, and our spirits so little subdued unto Christ, is, because we have but obscure discoveries of Christ. Secondly, Labour to be more and more humble, and sensible 2 of your own vileness. Self-abasing is the lifting up of Christ. The spirit that stoopeth lowest is best prepared to become a throne for Christ. For thus saith the High and lofty one that inhabiteth Isa. 57 15▪ eternity, whose Name is holy; I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit. This may seem strange that the highest place in heaven, and the lowest hearts on earth should be the fittest thrones for Christ. And why? the heart that is lowest in humility, is highest in excellency in his esteem: the spirit that is lifted up to the greatest height of pride, is lowest for vileness and baseness in his account▪ God resi●teth the proud, because they lift up themselves against His royal Majesty, and giveth grace to the humble, because they yield him subjection. Humility maketh way for more grace, and so for more full subjection unto Christ. They that delight to lie at the footstool of Christ in humility, shall see Christ sitting in the throne of their hearts, & shall be exalted to sit with Christ in his throne of glory. Thirdly, Keep a continual watch. A Commander who knoweth 3 many of his soldiers to be ill affected to the cause wherein he is engaged, and ready to raise a mutiny, or that hath many sturdy prisoners in his Camp that wait an opportunity to act mischief, had need set a strong guard upon them, and keep a watchful eye over them. So a Christian finding many treacherous lusts in his heart, ready upon occasion to break into actual rebellion against Christ, had need be very watchful: if he be slumbering, they will soon be acting mischief. Watch therefore, and if they begin to stir, execute martial Law upon them presently. Let them die without mercy, that thy soul may live, and Christ may reign. Fourthly, Keep peace with God: and let the peace of God rule 4 in thine heart, that so thy soul may rest in a sweet subjection under the government of Christ the Prince of peace; whilst the hearts of others are hurried up and down with divers and contrary lusts, being like the raging sea, casting up mire and dirt. As the point is of universal concernment to all degrees of persons, so I have carried it on in the Application. I yet desire liberty for one word to this Honourable Audience, whom it especially concerneth. Much honoured in the Lord, I beseech You take home to yourselves what hath been spoken to you and others in the Name of Christ, & labour to make it your own. This is that which would make your memories precious to posterity, and cause future generations to call you blessed; yea this will enable you to give up your last account with joy, if first your own spirits shall be truly subdued to the Lord Jesus Christ; and then if your Parliamentary counsels and proceedings shall be such as savour of the loyalty of your hearts toward this King of Saints. The Apostle seemeth 2 Cor. 9 12, 13. to have been wonderfully affected with a work of mercy performed by private Christians, in relieving the necessities of their poor Brethren. For (saith he) the administration of this service not only supplieth the want of the Saints, but is abundant also by many thanksgivings unto God: whilst by the experiment of this ministration, they glorify God for your professed subjection to the Gospel of Christ. How much more shall the right administration of this public Service wherein ye are engaged, and the faithful discharge of this great trust committed to You, not only supply the wants, and make up the breaches of Church and State; but also be abundant by many thanksgivings unto God, enlarging the hearts, and opening the mouths of thousands of the godly, whilst by the experiment of this public ministration they glorify God for your professed subjection to the Gospel of Christ. And if the Apostle in that case did break out so affectionately, how much more shall the faithful have cause to lift up the praises of their God, and Ver. 15. to say: Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift: Blessed be God for a Parliament that subjected themselves, and all their power and authority to Him whom God hath set at His own right hand, far above principalities and powers, and every name that is named not only in this world, but also in the world to come; for a Parliament, who in all their legislative Acts hold respect to their subordination to that supreme lawgiver, who is able to save and to destroy, who were tender of the glory of the Lord Jesus, of the purity of his truth and worship, and would not for a world infringe any of His royal prerogatives. Ye have mighty engagements hereunto: And therefore for conclusion let me set before Psal. 18. 47, 48 you David's case, and his example. It is God that avengeth me, and subdueth the people under me. Hath not God avenged you, and wonderfully subdued the people under you, far beyond the hopes of those that were most confident among you? He delivereth me from mine enemies: yea thou hast lifted me up above those that rise up against me; thou hast delivered me from the violent man. Cannot ye say after him verbatim, and apply all to yourselves, word for word? What cause have you to conclude with him, Therefore will Ver. 49. I give thanks unto the Lord among the heathen; and will sing praises unto thy Name. Labour in thankfulness to make the Name of the Lord glorious among the heathen; heathenish Christians that are strangers to him in divers parts of the Land, by propagating the Gospel, and giving necessary encouragement to those that publish it. And remember that Christ's highest end in all his works (and therefore certainly in such admirable works) is Himself: not the greatn●sse of the creature who enjoyeth the comfort of them, but the honour of His own great Name. Oh learn therefore to seek not your own things, but the things of Jesus Christ: 1 Sam. 12. 24. For consider how great things He hath done for you. FINIS.