Saving Faith Set forth In Three Dialogues, or Conferences: 1 Between Christ and a Publican. 2 Between Christ and a Pharisee. 3 Between Christ and a Doubting Believer. Whereunto is added TWO SERMONS One of them Preached before the Parliament the other Before the Lord Mayor of the City of LONDON. By VAVASOR POWELL, Minister of the Gospel. LONDON, Printed by Robert Ibbitson for Li●ewell Chapman, at the Crown in Popes-head Alley. 1651. THis Author hath another Treatise Extant, called Christ and Moses Excellency, etc. Distinguishing and explaining the two Covenants, also treating on the Promises belonging to both Covenants; Directing to a right understanding of them. To the Right Honourable the Parliament of the Commonwealth of ENGLAND. Most Noble, and honourable Senators, FOrasmuch as you were pleased, so to own me, and this rude, & plain speech of mine, as to command me to the Pulpit, and order it to the Press. I now humbly present it to you, with a small portal (or short Epistle) for the Edifice, itself, (being so little, and built with so many unhewn stones,) deserves not a great Porch, or Gate before it. That which I intended in this Discourse, and that which I do, (and shall) aim at and endeavour, in my whole Course, was, and is the Exaltation of Christ, and the humiliation, and abasing of the Creature. Christ was once humbled that we might be exalted, and he is now exalted that we might be humbled. I may say without flattery, that God hath honoured you much, and you have honoured him not a little: Yet observe that Honour is a forerunner, either of the raising of Christ in men's hearts, Deut. 4.24 and esteem, or a sign of the utter ruining, breaking and sinking of them. The Lord is jealous for his own, and zealous for his Son's glory; Esa. 9.7. and though he be willing to impart his grace unto all, Esa. 42.8. yet his glory he will not give to any other. There be two hard Lessons, which are as the Alpha and Omega, in God's Book. The one is to deny ourselves, and the other, to give glory to God: And he is the compleatest Scholar in Christ's School, who is best versed in this divine learning. Ye Worthy Rulers (of our Israel) Consider how God hath exalted You in the hearts of his People, over the heads of your Domestic Enemies, and in the eyes of your Foreign foes. Now what doth the Lord require for all this from you again? but that you walk humbly, and give his Highness his deserved, and due Glory. Though Moses and Aaron, (two choice Christians, and Champions) did lead and govern Israel for a long time, Num. 20.12. (notwithstanding many dangers and difficulties) yet they were at last shut out of Canaan, because they did not sanctify God, at the waters of Meribah. Also Eli (who was forty years a Priest of the Lord) was taken away, 1 Sam. 2.29. and his posterity cut off, because he honoured his sons above the Lord. Would you stand your selves, and keep the honour which God hath given you? and would you have your posterity to prosper, and to have a name in the world, when you are gone out of it? then make it your business to exalt Christ. Oh remember that God pulls down some, Ezek. 31.14. to the end that others might not exalt themselves. The Lord of Hosts (saith Isaiah) hath purposed to slain the pride of all glory, and to bring into contempt all the honourable of the earth. Esa. 23.9. There is a day coming, when all flesh shall be humbled, and the Lord alone exalted; & that day shall be upon every one that is proud and lofty, Esa. 2.11.12. and upon every one that is lifted up, & he shall be brought low. Humble yourselves therefore, and exalt, neither your hearts, nor your gates, Seek not great things for yourselves, Jer. 45.5. and let there not be a lie in your right hands, Esa. 44.20 Mal. 2.16. neither cover violence with a garment. Propound nothing to yourselves to seek for, but the honour of Christ, and the Saints, and Nations interest, (wherein your interests and safeties are involved, and included.) Neh. 5.14.18. Imitate good Nehemiah, who did twelve years hard service freely. And that because the bondage was heavy upon the people. The Lord hath hitherto made you friends to the Saints, and Fathers to the Nation. So that the former hath been countenanced, and both preserved through Christ, by your means. Likewise your zealous and glorious Acts of Justice against sin, and your religious Acts of Grace (to the souls of men) in the propagating and promoting the Gospel, Especially those of Wales. do, and will remain engraven, (not in Marble but) in the minds of us and our posterity. And for the making of your actions yet more incomparable, (if your more public and weighty business permit) to set some time, and persons aside, to hear, and relieve the private petitions, and grievances of the widows, distressed, imprisoned, oppressed, and those that have suffered for Christ's cause and your: Job. 31.16 19 that you may be able to say with Job: That you have not withheld the poor from their desire, nor caused the eyes of the Widow to fail: nor seen any perish for want of clothing, nor any poor without covering. Another desirable thing is, that all the REMAINDERS of Paganism, Popery and Superstition, may be taken away, and that the places formerly consecrated, by Bishops, and still adored by the ignorant and superstitious (who call the Churches, and houses of God) may be declared to have no inherent holiness in them: Also that the heathen names of days, and months may be abolished, that so the people may learn to speak the language of the Scriptures, and not of Ashteroth: and that Jehovah & not Jupiter; Christ and not Saturn, may be named; and written by us who profess ourselves to be among the best, and the resormedst of Christians. And that you may (to use the Apostles phrase) be perfect, and wanting nothing, to represent you excellent and eminent: Learn to say with Nehemiah, that though the former Governors were chargeable to the people: Neh. 5.15. and even their servants bare rule over them: Yet so did not I (we) because of the fear of the Lord This shall be the prayer of him (for you) who can say as Deborah: Judg. 5.9. My heart is towards the Governors of Israel (England) that offered themselves willingly among the people, bless the Lord. Your Honours much obliged, and most faithful servant, for Christ and in his way. Vavasor powel. Three Divine Dialogues, OR, Conferences. The first, between Christ, and a Publican. The second, between Christ, and a Pharisee. The third, between Christ, and a doubting Believer. The first Dialogue, between Christ and a Publican. IN the great day of the Feast Jesus stood, and cried, saying, if any man thirst, let him come to me, Joh. 7.31. Then drew near all the Publicans and Sinners for to hear him, Luke 15.1. And he said unto one of them: Jesus, Poor Publican, What makes thee draw near to me? Publican, Because they say (Lord) that thou art a friend of Publicans and Sinners, Matth. 11.19. J. So I am, and thou art welcome my beloved friend, sit down therefore with me, and my Disciples, Mat. 9.10. P. Good Master, though I am unworthy to come into thy presence, yet through thy leave, I'll sit here at thy feet to hear thy gracious words, Mar. 7.25. Luke 10.39. Joh. 12.3. J. How knowest thou that my words are gracious? P. Lord I have heard thee say, that Publicans and Harlots, shall enter into the King doom of heaven, before the Pharisees which think themselves far better than us, Mat. 21.31. Luke 18.11.12. J. And what say the Pharisees to that? P. They murmur among themselves, and say, This man receiveth sinners, and eateth with them, Luke 15.2. J. Didst thou ever hear me preach besides that time? P. Yes, once besides, and it was the best, and comfortablest Sermon that ever I heard. J. Dost thou remember any of it? P. Yes, (though I have a bad memory, yet) I remember thou didst say, If a man had a hundred sheep, and did lose one of them, he would leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which was lost, until he find it: and when he had found it, he layeth it on his shoulders rejoicing, and when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends, and neighbours, saying unto them, rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep that was lost. J. Is that all thou dost remember? P. No, I remember somewhat more, that thou didst speak of a woman, that had ten pieces of silver, and when she had lost one piece, she sought for it till she had found it, and then called her neighbours together to rejoice with her: Also thou spakest of a man that had two sons, the one that lived still at home, and was obedient to his father; the other that went away from his father, and spent his father's means among harlots, till he came to poverty; and yet when he returned to his father, his father did receive him willingly, and made him great welcome, and entertainment. J. Well done my friend, thou hast well remembered; but dost thou know why I spoke these comparisons? P. No Sir, I do not well know that. J. It was to comfort, and encourage the Publicans and great sinners, that did hear me, and to silence the Jews that did murmur, because they came to bear me, and because I received them. P. It is true Lord, there were many of us there then, but we did not know what thou didst mean by the lost sheep, the lost piece, and the wicked son. J. I did mean thy Countrymen, and companions, the Publicans, Harlots, and Sinners, that are in a lost condition, because of your sins, and wickedness in the eyes of others (as the Pharisees) quite lost, and adjudged to perish for ever. P. But who was it Lord, that did seek for the lost sheep, and the lost piece of silver? J. It was I, who am the Saviour of sinners, and the Shepherd of the sheep, that am come to seek and to save that which is lost, Luke 19 10. Matth. 18.11. P. Lord I am one of those that are lost, what shall I do to be saved? Acts 16.31. J. I am the way, and the door, if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and whosoever believeth on me, shall not perish, but have everlasting life, Joh. 14.6. & 10.9. & 3.15.16. P. Lord canst thou save such a sinner as I am? J. Yes, I have power to save, and power to destroy, but I came not to destroy * Greek, 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 the souls of men. men's lives, but to save them, Jam. 4.12. Luk. 9.56. P. And art thou willing Lord, that I should be saved? J. Yes, I am willing that all should be saved, and come to the knowledge of the truth, 1 Tim. 2.5. P. But, Lord, I am a wicked and a sinful man, Luk. 5.8. J. I know (dear soul) thou art so; But, I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance, Matth. 9.13. P. But Lord, I am not an ordinary, but an extraordinary sinner. J. Notwithstanding poor man, harken for thy comfort, There was a certain Creditor, that had two debtors, the one ought five hundred pence, and the other fifty; and when they had nothing to pay, be frankly forgave them both, Luk. 7.41.42. P. But Lord, I am a greater sinner then either of them both, for I have nothing, but sinned all my life time. J. What though, I am come to deliver those, that were all their life time subject to * Or the bondage of sin. bondage, Heb. 2.15. P. Lord be merciful to me being a sinner, for I think there is not a greater sinner upon earth than I am, Luke 18.13. J. I am merciful, and I will be merciful, and will pardon thy sins, Jer. 3.12. Heb. 8.12. P. Lord, I am such a sinner, I deserve no pardon, for I have wearied thee with my sins. J. Though thou dost not deserve pardon, and though thou hast wearied me with thy sins, yet I will pardon thine iniquities for my own names sake, Esa. 43.25. P. Lord, I do think my sins are so great, that it is impossible for them to be pardoned. J. Do not think or say so, for all things are possible to him that believeth, Mark. 9.23. P. But my sins are so red, I think all the water in the sea cannot wash them away. J. Though thy sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow, and though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool, (if thou wilt turn to me from them) for my blood can cleanse thee from all sin, Esa. 1.18. 1 joh. 1.7. P. But Lord if I should turn to thee from them, yet they are written down, and thou wilt not blot them out, jer. 18.23. J. I am be that blotteth out thy transgressions, yea, have blotted out as a thick cloud thy transgressions, and as a cloud thy sins: return therefore unto me, for I have redeemed thee, Esa. 43.25. & 44.22. P. But if I should return unto thee, yet when I sin again, thou wilt remember my sins. J. No, I will pardon thee, and thy sins and iniquities will I remember no more, Heb. 10.17. P. Oh Lord! I am the child of wicked parents, and thou ha' said, thou wilt visit the sins of the fathers, upon the children, to the third and fourth generation. J. If a wicked father begets a son, that seethe all his father's sins which he hath done, and considereth, and doth not such like; that son shall not bear the iniquity of the father; Ezek. 18.14.20. Ezek. 16.3. to the 13. P. But Lord, were there any wicked parents that had good children? J. Yes, many, as wicked (a) 2 Kin. 16.20. with 2 Kin. 18.3 Ahaz had good Hezekiah: So (b) 2 King 21 21, 22. with 2 Kin. 22.2 Idolatrous Amon, zealous josiah, and ungodly Saul, had godly jonathan. P. Lord, what if I be a Bastard, and the child of whoredom? J. That doth not hinder thee neither to be saved, for my servant (c) Jud. 11.1 with Heb. 11.32. Jepthah was a Bastard; so was my servant Phares who is reckoned in my own Genealogy. Compare Gen. 38.18. & 29 & Ruth 4.12. with Mat. 1.3. P. But Lord, is there not such a Scripture, that a Bastard shall not enter into thy Congregation until the tenth Generation. J. Yes there is such a (d) Deu. 23.2 Scripture, and that should make people shun the sin of whoredom, but that doth not exclude men, that are borne Bastards after the flesh, if they be borne again of the Spirit, either out of my Church on Earth, (now in the days of the Gospel) or yet out of Heaven. P. But what Lord, if my father was a Bastard? J. Neither doth that binder, for Zarah the brother of Phares (who was a Bastard) begot my two wise and godly servants Ethan and Heman, compare Gen. 38.30. 1 Chron. 26. with Psal. 88 and Psal. 89. the titles of both being of Heman, and Ethan. P. Oh Lord, I am a very old sinner, and have one foot already in the grave, and I fear it is too late for me now to be called. J. No, it is not too late, for I call some at the ninth hour, yea some at the (e) Which is but one hour before night, or a little before Death. eleventh hour. And I will pour out of my Spirit upon old men in these Gospel days, Mat. 20.6.9. Joel 2.28. with Act. 2.17 P. But Lord, I have committed such great and heinous sins, both by speaking, and doing, that I am afraid it is in vain for me to seek mercy. J. Though thou hast spoken, and done evil things, as much as thou couldst, yet return unto me, and I will not cause mine anger to fall upon thee, for I am merciful, Jer. 3.5. P. How shall I look upon thee Gracious Lord, for I have multiplied sins against thee. J. As thou hast multiplied sins, so will I (f) Or will abundantly pardon. multiply pardons, if thou wilt return unto me the Lord, Esa. 55.7. P. Oh but Lord, I scarce think, that any so wicked as myself were saved, for I was an Idolater, an Adulterer, a Thief, a Drunkard, and what not, that was wicked. J. Such were many of my servants that are now in heaven, but I according to my own kindness, and pity to them, saved them by washing, sanctifying, and justifying them, by my own (g) Or power Name, Blood, and Spirit, 1 Cor. 9.6, 9, 10, 11. Tit. 3.3, 4, 5, 6, 7. P. Oh but merciful Saviour, I was a Ringleader of others into sin, and I enticed, and drew many into wickedness, and therefore my case is far worse than others. J. As thou wast a Ringleader, and Enticer of others into sin, so I can make thee a guide and leader of others into, and in the way of righteousness, as I made thy Countryman Levi and others. P. But that which makes me fear most, is because I was a Blasphemer, Reviler, and Persecutor of thy people, yea many of thy Saints, did I shut up in Prison. J. Yet thou shalt have mercy, because thou didst it ignorantly through unbelief, 1 Tim. 1.13. P. Oh but Lord, I find my heart is hardened, through the deceitfulness, and custom of sin, that I cannot hope it will ever be otherwise. J. I can, and will take the stony heart out of thy flesh, and I will give thee a heart of flesh, Eze. 36.26. P. Lord wilt thou do all for me? J. I must do all for thee, for without me thou canst do nothing, Phil. 2.13. Joh. 15.5. P. Lord, what then shall I do? J. Before I teach thee what thou must do; I will first show thee, what I have done, and suffered for thee. P. Good Master I desire to know that. I, 1. I left my own glory, and came into the world to save thee, and such sinners as thou art, John 17.5. 1 Tim 1.15. 2. Though I was the only Son of my Father, and in his own form, and equal to him; yet I took upon me the form of a servant, for thee and thy brethren's sake, Joh. 1.14. Phil. 2.6, 7, 8. 3. Though I was Heir of all things, and Possessor of heaven and earth, yet I became poor and hungry, that thou mightest be made rich, Heb. 1.2. Gen. 14.19. and 2 Cor. 8.9. 4. Though I deserved honour, and glory; yet I was reviled, threamed, and persecuted by my own creatures, and all for my good will to thee, Heb. 2.9. 1 Pet. 2.23. 5. Though I had no sin, yet I was made sin that thou poor sinner mightest escape sin, 1 Pet. 1.19. and 2.22, 2 Cor. 1.21. 6. Though I was a Lawgiver, and Lawmaker, yet I became under the curse of my own Law, that I might redeem thee from that curse, Esa. 33.22. Gal. 3.13. 7. When I had power over mine own life, and no man could take it from me, yet I laid it down for thee, that thou mightest have life, Joh. 10.18. Rom. 5.6.9. 1 joh. 3.16. 8. Though I was my father's delight, and an object of his love from everlasting: yet I became an object of his wrath, for my love to thee, Prov. 8.30. Psa. 88.16. & 102.10. 9 When thou wast an enemy, and stranger to God my father, I made peace between him, and thee, and reconciled thee to him by my death, and jufferings, Rom. 5.10. Col. 1.20, 21. Eph. 2.12, 13. 10. When thou wert a slave to the Devil, and a firebrand of hell; I did rescue thee from the power of the one, and redeem thee from the plague and punishment of the other, 2 Tim. 2.25. Amos 4.11. Heb. 2.14, 1 Thes. 1.10. P. Oh Lord I did not deserve any of this from thee. J. True thou didst not deserve it, but yet I did it freely, and out of my love to thee, Rom. 3.24. Eph. 5.2. P. Are all my sins, Lord, satisfied for, and done away by thy death. J. Yes, they are perfectly satisfied for, and absolutely done away out of my father's sight, never to be imputed again to thee, 2 Cor. 5.19. P. And is there nothing now in the way that hinders me to be saved? J. No, there is nothing, for I have taken all things out of the way, that hindered thee to be saved, Col. 2.14. P. And am I to do nothing to be saved? J. No, nothing at all towards thy own salvation, for I have bought thee from death, and purchased thee life, and salvation, 1 Cor. 6.20. 1 Pet. 1.18, 19 Eph. 1.14. P. Shall I then be saved Lord? J. Yes, if thou wilt believe, and trust wholly and only upon me, and upon my righteousness and merits, thou shalt be saved, Joh. 3.36. Rom. 9.33. and Ro. 10.9.11. P. Lord I would believe, but I partly am afraid to believe; and partly, I am so weak I cannot believe. J. Thou poor fearful heart, fear not, but be strong Esa. 35.4. But tell me why thou art afraid. P. Lest I should presume, or lest I should believe, and have no ground for my faith. J. It is not presumption for thee to do what I command thee, but it is obedience, and is not my word of promise a sufficient ground for thy faith? 1 joh. 3.23. Joh. 5.24. P. Dost thou then Lord command me to believe? J. Yes, fear not, believe on me, and thou shalt be saved, Lu. 8.50. with Act. 16.31. P. But Lord though thou commandest me, yet I have no power to believe. J. I will write my law in thy heart, and will enable and give thee power to believe, Heb. 8.10. Mat. 12.21. P. Lord if thou wilt also give me power to believe, I will acknowledge I am nothing, but what I am in thee; and that I have nothing, but what I have received from thee. J. Dost thou not believe? P. Oh yes, now Lord I do believe, joh. 9.38. J. This is the work and gift of God that thou dost believe; for flesh and blood hath not wrought this in thee, joh. 6.29. Eph. 2.8. P. Oh Lord, I do acknowledge it to be thy work, but I am afraid I shall lose this faith again. J. I that am the Author of thy faith, will also finish it: be therefore of good cheer, for thou art one of my Father's children, and of my Saints, and my spirit shall abide in thee for ever, Heb. 12.2 john 1.12. john 4.14. john 7.38 39 P. Lord I have sinned against thy father, and against thee, and I am unworthy to be called either his Son, or thy Servant, Luk. 15.21. J. Son, thy sins are forgiven thee, sinne no more, Luke 5.23. john 8 11. P. Lord I am afraid I shall sinne again, though I desire, and resolve never to do it. But what Lord, if I should sinne against my will? J. Thou canst not sinne willingly and wilfully; for my seed of grace will remain in thee, and if thou sinnest through weakness, and frailty, I will be an Advocate, and propitiation for thy sins, 1 joh. 3.9. 1 joh. 2.12. P. Is it then thy will Lord, that I should have forgiveness of my sins, and doubt no more? J. Yes sure, for these things have I spoken, that thou shouldest have a full assurance, and doubt no more. P. But what if Satan, when he sees me sin, will tempt me to doubt again? J. Say unto him, that I am faithful and just to forgive thee thy sins, and that my blood cleanseth thee from all sin. 1 joh. 17. P. But Lord wilt not thou have me to confess my sins? J. Yes, I will have thee confess them, be sorry for them, and forsake them, 1 joh. 1.9. Prov. 28.13. P. But Lord, is it thy mind, that I should always be sorrowful? J. No, but it is my mind, rather that thou shouldest always rejoice, and have strong consolation, Phil. 4.4. Heb. 6.18. P. Oh Lord, I cannot choose but cry, and mourn and be ashamed, and hate myself for all my former wickedness, and ungodliness Ezek. 16.61. J. Thou mayest do that, and yet hold fast thy confidence; for the spirit of mourning, and the spirit of grace, and adoption, may be in thy heart at once, and the one not destroy the other, Zac. 12.10. P. Lord how is that? J. Thou mayst mourn at the sight of thy sins, as they were commited against me, and for thy denying, selling and crucifying me, and yet thou mayest believe (because I have said so) that they are all pardoned. As joseph's brethren, cried, and complained for their guiltiness in selling him, yet they were glad that he was alive, and could help them in their distress, Gen. 42.21, 22. P. Now Lord thou hast taught me, what I should do in respect of myself; but now Lord I would do something for thee. J. Come then and follow me, Mat. 9.9. And he arose and followed him. The second Conference between Christ, and a Pharisee. Pharisee. THen one of the Pharisees came to him, and asked him, what shall I do to work the work of God Joh. 6.28? Jesus. This is the work of God, that thou believe in him (viz. me) whom he hath sent, Joh. 6.29. Ph: But Master what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life, Mat. 19.16. J. If thou wilt be saved by doing, then keep the Commandments. Ph: I have kept them all from my youth, Mat. 19.20. J. Then thou art no sinner. Ph: Yes, we are all sinners; but I thank God I am not as other men are, Extortioners, Unjust, Adulterers, or even as this Publican, Luke 18.11. J. Why, what dost thou more than this Publican? Ph: I fast twice in the week, and give tithes of all that I possess, and concerning the Law, I live blameless, Luk. 18.12. Phil: 3.6. J. Hast thou never read, that they which followed after the Law of Righteousness, have not attained to the Law of Righteousness, Rom. 9.31. Ph: No, I never observed that, but I remember another text, where God saith, I gave them my Statutes, and shown them my Judgements, which if a man do, he shall live in them, Ezek. 20.11. J. Dost thou then think to go to heaven by doing? Ph: Not by doing only, but by doing good, and departing from evil. J. But doth not the Law say, cursed is he that observeth not all things that are written in the words of the Law to do them, Deut: 27.26. Ph: Yes, that is, whosoever breaks the Law is accursed, unless he reputes for it J. The Law doth not say, unless men repent for breaking it, they are accursed, but it says absolutely they are cursed, and I say whosoever keepeth the whole law, and yet offendeth in one point, he is guilty of all, Gal. 3.10. Jam: 2.10. Mat: 5.19. Ph: I say so too, that except men keep the law of Moses they (a) Acts 15.1.24. cannot be saved, and whosoever (b) Joh. 7 49 know not, and keep not the Law, they are accursed. J. Dost thou know the Law? Ph: Yes, I know the Law, for I am instructed daily out of the Law, by our (c) Zeph. 3.4 Doctors of the Law and holy Priests. I: The Priests have done violence to the Law, and they that (d) Jer. 2.8. handle the Law know not the Lord. Ph: Jehovah, hath said, that the Law shall not perish, from the Priests for the Priests lips is to keep knowledge, and we are to seek the Law at his mouth, Jer: 18.18. Mal: 2.7. J. God hath said also, that the Law shall (e) Ez. 7.16, perish from the Priests, and that they (f) Jer. 31.4 shall not every man teach his neighbour any more, for all shall know the Lord, from the least to the greatest. Ph: I perceive thou goest about to destroy the Law. I: Think not so: for I am not come to destroy the Law, but to fulfil it, Mat: 5.17. Luke. 16.17. Ph: I Sir, I like that, that we should fulfil the Law, for Moses gave us the Law, that we should perform it. I: Yes, Moses gave you the Law, but (a) Joh. 7.19 none of you keepeth it, but (b) Mal. 2.9. you have been partial in the Law. (c) mat. 23.23 Ye pay tithe of Mint, Annis, and Cumming, and have omitted the weightier matters of the Law, Judgement, Mercy, and Faith. Ph: It is true, we may come short in some things, but he that keepeth the Law happy is he. J. Thou that (d) Ro. 2.17. vers. 23. restest in the Law, and makest thy boast of the Law, through breaking the Law thou dost dishonour God; and causest many to (f) Mal. 2.8. stumble at the Law, verily I say unto thee, thou (g) Ro. 2.12. shalt be judged by the Law. Ph: No, I hope rather, to be justified, then to be judged by the Law. J. Verily, verily, I say unto thee, by the deeds of the Law, there shall no flesh be justified in God's sight, Rom. 3.20. Gal: 3.11. Ph: How then shall I be justified? J. The righteousness of God without the Law is manifest, being witnessed by the Law and the Prophets, Rom. 3.21. Ph: What Righteousness is that? I: Not a man's (h) Phil. 3.9. own righteousness, which is called, the (i) Ro. 2.26. Righteousness of the Law: but the (k) Ro 4.13. righteousness which is of God by faith. Ph: What difference is there between the righteousness of the Law, and the righteousness of faith? I: Moses describeth the righteousness of the Law, thus, that the man which doth those things which the Law requireth shall live by them: but the righteousness of faith, saith, whosoever believeth on me shall be saved, Ro, 10.5.6.11. Ph: How can men be saved by believing in thee, for thou art but one? J. As by one (l) Rom. 5.7 man's offence death reigned, by one much more, they which receive abundance of grace, and of the gift of righteousness, shall reign in life by me, who am the (m) Mal. 4.2. son of righteousness, (n) Cor. 1.30 and made by God my Father to be righteousness unto men. Ph: Thou bearest record of thyself, Joh. 8.13. I: (o) Joh. 8, 14. Though I bear record of myself, yet my record is true. (p) Joh. 5.11 My Father also beareth witness of me, and this is his witness, that he hath given life, and this life is in (me) his son. Ph: But what sayest thou, how was our father Abraham and his seed (who lived before thee) justified and saved? J. (q) Joh. 8.56 Your Father Abraham, rejoiced to see my day, and be saw it, and was glad, for (r) Ro. 4.3.11, 13, 16. Gal. 3.14.18.20: I was before Abraham, and be and his spiritual seed, were justified and saved by faith in me. Ph: But was not Abraham justified by works? J. If Abraham were justified by works, he hath whereof to glory, It is true, Abraham's faith was accompanied with works. but net before God: for what saith the Scripture. Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness, Ro. 4.2.3. Ph: If I be not justified by my good works, to what end should I perform them? I: Though thy good works cannot justify thee before God, yet they may glorify God, and be profitable unto men, Mat. 5.16. Tit. 3.8. Ph: Well then, I am glad my good works be good for something. I: Yes, thy good works would be good for something, if thy faith (like abraham's) did work with thy works: but thou dost not believe, and all thy good works, thou dost, to be seen of men, jam. 2.22. Mat: 23.5. Ph: No, I do not do my good works to be seen of men, but to please God. I: I tell thee that without faith it is impossible to please God, Heb: 11.6. Ph: But God hath said, if a man do well, he shall be accepted. J. It is not for their well-doing that men are accepted with my father, but they are made acceptable in me, and their works are accepted for my sake, Eph. 1.6. 1 Pet: 2.6. Ph: But am I no nearer Heaven, that perform good works, than this sinful and ungodly Publican? J. Thou Hypocrite that justifiest thyself, and judgest another: I tell thee, that Publicans and Harlots, shall enter into the Kingdom of Heaven before such as thou art, Mat: 7.5. and 21 31. Ph: Oh untrue, and false-doctrine, to say, that those cursed men who know not the Law, should be saved before us, who are the children of Abraham, joh. 7.49. & 8.33. I: Thou blind, and self-conceited Pharisee, understandest thou not the Scripture? I will have mercy, and not sacrifice, for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance. And I say unto thee, unless thou dost believe in me, thou art not the child of Abraham, Mat. 9.13. Gal. 3.26. Ph: I believe in the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, whose child and servant I am. I: If thou didst believe in God, thou wouldst also believe in me, but thou art the child of the devil, and in bondage to this day, Ioh: 8.44. Gal. 4.25. Ph: How am I in bondage? I: Thou art under the curse of the Law, and under the power of sin and Satan; and canst never be made free, unless I make thee free, Ioh: 8.34, 35, 36. Ph: How dost thou free men? I: By my (a) Gal. 3.13 death, and sufferings, I satisfy the Law; by the (b) 1 Cor. 15.55, 57 power of my resurrection, I overcome death; and by my Spirit, I (m) Mat. 12.28 cast out Satan, and (n) Rom. 8.2 subdue sin. Ph. Sir, I hope to be freed another way, to wit, by my sacrifices prayers, and good works. J. Thy sacrifices and thy prayers, are an abomination unto me, and thy works are not found perfect before God, Esa. 66.3. Prov. 15.8. and 28.9. Rev. 3.2. Ph. What dost thou think to beat me off from my long prayers, and good works? I hope by these, together with my fasting, and mourning, to lay a sure, and happy foundation for my soul, for ever. J. Thou worker of iniquity, that dost (a) Esa. 32.6 practice hypocrisy, I tell thee, thy prayers are (b) Ps. 109.7 sin, thy works are done to be seen of men; thou also fastest for (c) Es. 58.4.5 strife, and thy mourning is but hypocritical: therefore instead of laying a sure and happy foundation, thou (d) job 36.13 heapest up wrath to thyself, against the day of wrath. Ph. Sir, I am not a hypocrite, but a true child of God, and I hope I shall be saved, for I know most good men take me for a godly and righteous man. J. Though thou dost outwardly (e) Mat. 23.28 appear righteous unto men, yet within thou art full of hypocrisy and iniquity; thou seed of the Serpent, thy (f) Job. 8.13. hope will perish, for thou canst not (g) Mat. 23.33. escape the damnation of hell. Ph. I do not fear what thou sayest, for I am better persuaded of myself. J. Though thy seared conscience, and hardened heart hinders thee yet from fearing; yet fear, terror, ' and trembling shall (h) Es. 33.14 Deu. 32.22 surprise, and fill thy spirit, that thou shalt roar in (i) Luk. 3.17 Mark. 9.43 44, 46. flames of fire, and in everlasting burn. Ph. I have joy and comfort in my spirit often from my performances, and I know that God will hear my prayers, that I make publicly and privately unto him. J. Thou painted Sepulchre, hast thou not read! that the (k) job. 20.5 joy of an hypocrite is but for a moment? and that an hypocrite shall not (l) job 13.16 come before God. And dost thou not (m) job 15.4 restrain prayer before God; and when thou prayest, dost thou not do it publicly to be (n) Mat. 6.5 seen of men? Ph. I pray in private also. J. Then it is either when some (o) Esa. 26.16 punishment is upon thee, or else to quiet thy carnal conscience. Ph. Mr. why dost thou reproach me in saying thus? J. Thou dissembler that (p) joh. 5.44 seekest honour of men, and not the honour which cometh from God: thou art to expect nothing but shame, and (q) Dan. 12.2 everlasting contempt. Ph. Sir, thou judgest rashly. J. No, as I hear, I judge, and my judgement is just and true, Joh. 5.30. and 8.16.26. Ph. How knowest thou what I am, that thou so judgest? J. I am he that searcheth the heart, and trieth the reins, and I will give to every one of you according to your works, Rev. 2.23. Ph. When thou judgest the world, what difference wilt thou make between us that served God, and the Heathens that served him not? J. The difference will be this, that your (r) Mat. 23.14. Mar. 12 40. Lu. 20.47. condemnation will be the greater, because (though ye knew God, yet) ye served him (s) Mat. 15.9 vainly, falsely, and (t) Esa. 57.4 hypocritically. Ph. Good Master, I would escape this condemnation, for I believe it will be great, and thy words begin to terrify me already. J. I have told thee already, that there is no other way for thee to escape it, but only by me, but yet thou dost not believe me, Joh. 10.25. Ph. How wilt thou have me believe in thee? J. First, I will have thee see thyself to be the (v) 1 Tim. 1 15. greatest and vilest of sinners, and then see all thy (u) Esa. 64 6 own righteousnesses, services, and performances, to be as filthy and menstruous rags: And after thou hast denied and (w) Eze. 36.31. abhorred thyself, then cry out, Master, save me, or else I perish; for the (x) Mat 9.12 whole need not a Physician, but those that are sick. Ph. I do see myself a sinner, and I am sorry for my sins. And doth not God say, that whosoever confesseth and forsaketh his sins shall find mercy. J. I say unto thee (thou lukewarm Professor) Except thou eatest my flesh, and drinkest my blood; and submittestunto my righteousness, thou canst not be saved, Joh. 6.53. Ph. Well then; If I cannot be saved by my own works, and righteousness, Master, let me be beholding to thee to save me. J. Hast thou not read, that (a) Psal. 3.8. Salvation belongeth only to the Lord, and that men are saved by grace, without the works of the Law; why then dost thou so (b) Deut. 32 15. lightly esteem of the Rock of thy Salvation? by seeking to be justified and saved (as (c) Ro. 9 32. it were) by thy own works: I tell thee again, thou must (d) Phil. 3.9 deny thy own righteousness wholly, and look to be found in my righteousness only, else thou canst not be saved. Ph. Indeed Master, thou makest the way to Heaven very hard. J. It is so hard, that many shall seek to enter in, and shall not be able, Luke 13.24. Ph. If it be as thou sayest, I am afraid that many of our best Scribes and Pharisees will come short of Heaven. J. Thou mayst be sure of that, for verily I say unto thee, Except thy righteousness, exceeds the righteousness of the Scribes and Pharisees, thou shalt in no case enter into the Kingdom of Heaven, Mat. 5.20. Ph. But Master, there be some that do great works in thy name, shall not all such be saved? J. No, for many will say unto me hereafter, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name, and in thy name cast out devils, and in thy name done many wonderful things; and then will I profess unto them, I never knew you, depart from me ye workers of iniquity, Matth. 7.22.23. Ph. But why should not such rather be saved then cast away? J. Because they did (as thou dost) do all these things to be seen of men, and to gain honour unto themselves, and so built their Salvation upon this false foundation, as the foolish builder built his house upon the sand, which in (g) i.e. Times of trial and persecution. Luke 8.12 time of flood, and winds, could not stand, but fell, Mat. 7.26, 27. Ph. I see thou dost reject me, I thought to be one of thy Disciples, and to follow thee. J. No, I do not reject thee, but am very willing to receive thee; but first consider, what thou dost, and what it will cost thee, if thou wilt be my Disciple, and follow me. Ph. What will it cost me Master? J. Thou must (h) i.e. In comparison of Christ, & when they come in competition with him. Mat. 10.37. hate thy father and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, and thine own life also; yea thou must go, and sell all that thou hast, and take up thy cross daily, and follow me, else thou canst not be my Disciple, Luke 14.26, 27. Ph. This is a hard saying, who can hear it, and he went away sorrowful, and followed him no more, Joh. 6.60.66. Mat. 19.22. The third Dialogue between Christ and a Doubting Believer. Christ. COme unto me all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest, Mat. 11.28. Believer. Oh Lord, I am a poor heavy laden sinner that would come unto thee, but cannot come. Ch: It is true O soul, no man can come unto me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him, Joh. 6.44. Bel. How then Lord shall I come unto thee? Ch: I and my Father are one, and we give power to the faint, and to them that have no might, we add strength, Or increase. Joh. 10.30. Esay 40, 29. Bel: Lord, I am altogether without strength, therefore draw me unto thee, and I will come. Ch: I will draw thee unto me with the cords of a man, with bands of love, and with loving kindness, Hos. 11, 4. jer. 31.3. joh. 12.32. Bel: But Lord now I look upon myself, I see I am unworthy to come unto thee; yea, unworthy of the least of thy mercies. Ch: So said my servant (a) Mat. 3 11.6 john the Baptist, and (b) Gen 32.10 jacob, and (c) Luk. 7.7. Mat. 8.8. others. yet do not judge thyself (as the (d) Acts 13.46. Jews did) unworthy of eternal life. Bel: If such men as John Baptist, and Jacob did judge themselves unworthy; how many thousand times more uxworthy am I, a wretched and wicked sinner? Ch: It is true, neither they, nor thou, As the Prodigals Father did his son Lu. 15.21, 22. could be worthy of yourselves, but yet I am willing to account you worthy, Luk. 20.35. and 21.36. Rev. 3.4. Bel. But Lord, if there were any thing that were good in me, it might a little encourage me to come unto thee, but I find nothing but evil in me. Ch: Dost thou not know, that without me thou canst (e) joh 15.5. do nothing; and that a man can (f) Joh 3.27. receive nothing, except it be given him from heaven. Why then dost thou stay away from me who must (g) Esa. 26.12.2, 12. work all thy works in thee. And 2. Because thou seest nothing but evil in thee, thou shouldst the rather come unto me, who am the (h) Zac. 13.1 Fountain wherein thy unclean soul must be washed; and unless I (i) Eze. 36.25. & 1.9 wash thee thou canst not be clean, nor have any (k) Joh. 13.8 part in me. Bel: True Lord, thou art the Fountain and wellspring of life, and it is thy blood (and nothing else) that can wash away my sins: but how can I come near to thee, who am so wicked, that for aught I know, have counted thy blood an (l) Heb. 10.29 unholy thing. Ch: Thou poor, Ac. 2.36.41 dear, and doubting soul, what if thou hadst had a hand in crucifying me (as the Jews had?) yet cannot I forgive thee, as I did many of them. But thou hast not accounted my blood an unholy thing, for thou still desirest to have thy sins washed away by it. Bel: What the jews did, they did ignorantly; but I have sinned against knowledge, which makes my sins worse than theirs. Ch: If thou hast finned against knowledge, yet thou hast not sinned so, but that thou mayst be forgiven: For my dear Disciple Peter sinned against knowledge, when he denied with an oath that he knew me not, Mat. 26.72. Bel. Oh but yet my sins are worse than his, for his sin was but one sin, and that a sudden and short sin; but I have sinned many sins and continued long in them. Ch: So did my beloved servant David (who was a man according to my own heart) commit several sins together, as Murder, Whoredom etc. and continued a while too in his sins. Bel. Oh but Lord, those servants of thine, though they sinned against thee, yet they expressed a great deal of sense of their sins, and sorrow for them; but I can neither be sensible of, nor sorrowful for mine. Ch: Oh sweet soul, thou mistakest, and forgettest thyself, for thou dost often confess thy sins before me with sense, shame, and sorrow. And I hear thee daily bemoaning, and complaining, and saying I have (n) job 7.20. Psal: 51.4. Lam. 5.16 sinned against the Lord, woe is me for I am undone. Bel: Oh good Lord, it is not without cause that I cry, woe is me I am undone; for I think there is no soul in such a dangerous, and desperate condition, as mine is in. Ch: Why dost thou think, and say so? Bel. Because I have sinned that unpardonable sin against thy spirit. Ch: Oh thou poor and precious soul, thou dost but think so, and fear so: But tell me how canst thou sin, that sin against my Spirit, and yet pray for more of my Spirit, and so much prise my Spirit as thou dost? Bel: Oh Lord, I have often grieved, and quenched thy Spirit, and is not this to commit that unpardonable sin? Ch: My own dear and loving children may, and do sometimes grieve my spirit by sinning, and quench the gracious motions of it, and yet do not sin that unpardonable sin, Eph. 4.30. 1 Thes. 5.19. Esay. 63.10. Bel: Oh but I can think no less, but that I have committed that sin, for I have had hard, cruel and desperate thoughts in my heart, against the Holy Spirit. Ch: Though (my child) thou hast had such thoughts in thy heart, yet thou hast not spoken evil of my Spirit (as the Jews did) which is the sin of blasphemy, and that unpardonable sin, Mat. 12.24, 28, 31. Mark. 3.22, to 30. Bel: Lord I am not sure but that I have spoken evil words of thy spirit; for I know I have many times uttered vile, bitter, and cursed words. Ch: Notwithstanding thou didst through the violence of thy temptations and in the bitterness of thy Soul speak such words (as my servants Job, job 3.1 to 13 & 10: 18 & 23.15, 16. Ps. 31.22. & 116.11. Ier 20.14, etc. jonah 4.3, 4, 9 Mat. 26, 72, 74 David, Jeremy, Jonah, and Peter did) yet thou hast not done despite (nor sinned maliciously and wilfully) against my Spirit of grace as Reprobates do, Heb. 10.29. Bel. Oh I have been and still am very wilful, and have often sinned wilfully, and thou sayest in thy word that if any sin wilfully after they receive the knowledge of the truth there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins. Heb. 10.26 Ch: Thou dear soul, have not I heard thee often in prayer complaining of, and bewailing thy sins, and beging earnestly for power against them; therefore it is rather against thy will (than wilfully) that thou dost sin. Bel. Oh but I find sins in power in my soul, which if I were a Saint they would not be so. Ch: My servant Paul found sin so strong in him that he confessed he was carnal, and sold under sin; and that he found a law in his members, Sin was in power in Paul when it could carry him captive. warring against the law of his mind, and bringing him into captivity to the law of sin, Rom. 14.23. Bel. Oh but neither Paul nor any other Saint, hath sinned presumptuously as I have done. Ch. My servant David prayed, that he might be kept from presumptuous sins, for he was subject thereunto; Psa. 19.13. It is probable that David sinned presumptuously in killing Vriah. and so are the best of my Saints. Bel. But Lord I have rebelled against thee. Ch: So did my servants of * Is. 1.2. & 63.20. old but I have received * Ps. 68.18 gifts for the Rebillious: and to me belongs mercies and forgiveness, though thou hast rebelled against me, Dan. 9.9. Bel: Oh but my Rebellion is the worst Rebellion of all, for I have rebelled against the light: I have professed thee, and yet I have belied thee, and made an hypocritical profession; I seemed like Judas, to be thy friend, whilst in my heart I did not love thee. Ch: The house of Israel and the house of Judah dealt treacherously against me the Lord, and belied me, and Ephraim my dear son, compassed me about with lies, yet was I gracious to them, Jer. 5.11.12. Hos. 11.12. with Jer. 23.6. and 31.20. Bel. But Lord Ephraim was never so wicked as I am, and guilty of such lukewarmness, Hypocrisy and Backesliding as I am guilty of. Ch: Yea, Ephraim was as a cake not turned. And Ephraim fed upon wind, and provoked me to anger most bitterly, yet my bowels did still work toward Ephraim, that I could not destroy him, Hos. 8.8. and 12.1.14. with 11.8. Bel: But I increased in sin, and the more mercies I received the more my heart was exalted. Ch: Even so did Ephraim sin more and more, and according as he was filled so his heart was exalted, Hos. 13.2, 6. Bel: But Lord what didst thou do to Ephraim? Ch: I drew them with the cords of a man, and with bands of love, and I was as the dew unto them, Heb. 11.4. and 14.5. Bel: Oh but I have forsaken the Lord, and backeslided from thee. Ch: So did Israel and Judah, Jer. 2.13. and 3.6. and 4.16. Bel: But Lord I find that my heart is bend to continual backesliding, yea, my backslidings are increased. Ch: So were * Hos. 11.7 jer. 5.6. they yet I healed their backslidings, so will I heal thine also, Hos. 14.4. Jer. 3.14.22. Bel: But I fell into gross sins that hath dishonoured thee, and caused thine enemies to blaspheme. Ch: So did my servant David, 2 Sam. 12.14. and other of my Saints. Bel: I but then he did mourn and repent greatly for his sins, but I cannot do so, for I find my heart as hard as an Adamant. Ch: So my people Israel's hearts formerly, were as hard as a Rock, Adamant, and Flint, Jer. 5.3. Ezek. 3.9. Bel: Oh but I have been long (yea ever) troubled with this hardness of heart. Ch: Though thou hast, yet I will take the stony heart out of thy flesh and I will give thee a heart of flesh, Eze. 36.26. Bel: But I cannot repent me of the hardness of my heart. Ch: What though, yet I am exalted to give repentance unto thee, Act. 5.31. Bel: Oh but I do not find that I am sensible enough of my sin; for if I were I should mourn, and be ashamed for all the wickedness which I have committed against thee. Ch: When thou dost see me whom thou hast pierced, and when thou seest that I am pacified towards thee; then thou shalt mourn, loathe thyself, and be ashamed, for all thy sins and abominations which thou hast committed against me Rev. 1.7. Ezek. 6.9. & 16.63. B. But Lord I am a very great sinner, and I would feign see the nature and number of my sins, that I might truly repent me of them, and be humbled for them. C. If thou didst see all thy sins with their nature, number, and aggravations: thou couldst never look upon them, Gen. 4.13. Mar. 27.3, 4, 5. but with despair as Cain and judas. And it is not so much the sight of sin as the sight of my Love, Grace, Goodness, and Glory, that will lead thee to repentance, and humble thee for thy sins. Luk. 7.42.47. Zach. 12 10. Rom. 2.4. Esa. 6.5. B. Oh Lord I know I am as wicked a sinner and as ungodly a wretch as ever lived: but though I know this yet methinks I am not broken with the sense thereof, I cannot weep nor shed tears for my sins, Oh no! I go many times to prayer and to hear Sermons, and there is no more working, nor relenting upon my soul, then if I were a dead stock, or stone. C. Oh my dear soul do not thou belie thyself, for I have heard many a sorrowful sigh coming from thy heart, and I have seen many a tear drop from thine Eyes: Ezek. 9.4 Psal. 34.17 Zack. 12.11. Heb. 5.7. and I will yet pour out more of the Spirit of mourning upon thee. But what if thou didst not find these things in thyself, yet I have offered up strong cries and tears unto my Father for thee. B. Oh Lord that I had but faith to believe that for myself. C. Have faith in me, and be not faithless but believing. Mar. 11.22. joh. 20.27. B. Lord I find so much Atheism and unbelief in my heart that I have often times questionings in myself concerning God, and concerning the Scriptures, and word of God. C. These are the temptations and suggestions of Satan, and my own Disciples were, and are troubled with them. Luk. 24.25. B. Oh Lord, I am troubled with a thousand temptations. Yet fear not (my loves and dear Child) for though thou hast divers temptations, Jam. 1.2. 1 Cor. 10.13. Heb. 2.18. 2 Pet. 2.9 yet it is that which my best Saints have had, and I will not suffer thee th' be tempted above what thou art able, but I will secure thee in thy temptations, and I will make away that thou shalt escape, and be deliver out of temptation. B. But I think that no Saint hath such temptations as mine, for sometimes, I am tempted to kill myself, and sometimes to kill others; insomuch that I cannot look upon any weapon, waters, or the like, but I am ready to do myself away therewith. C. Satan tempted me to cast myself of the Pinnacle of the Temple and he also tempted many of my dear Children, to destroy themselves: but do not thou hearken to the Accuser (for he doth accuse thee to me and me to thee) but rather say unto him, Mar. 4.5. Rev. 12.10 Job. 12.31. Satan it is written, my Lord Jesus hath overcome thee, and I hope through his blood, and through his might, and spirit to overcome thee likewise: say also my God hath commanded me not to kill another, Exod. 20.13. Act. 16.28 Job. 13.15 nor to do hurt or violence to myself: therefore get thee behind me thou liar, murderer, and Enemy, for I will put my trust in Christ though he kill me, and I will endeavour to live to serve him, though he should afterwards damn me. B. Though I do sometimes resolve against Satan's temptations, and labour to resist them: yet I find my temptations are renewed; and I am not able to withstand them, for they come in as a flood upon me. C. I that say unto the proud waves hitherto shalt thou come but no further; I will by my spirit put the Enemy (Satan) to flight when he comes in like a flood against thee. Job. 38.11 See Esa. 59.19. marg. B. But Lord I find I am not only troubled with fear and sad temptations: but also with strong and powerful corruptions. C. I will subdue all thy iniquities, and thy sins shall not have dominion over thee, Mich. 7.19. Rom. 6.14. B. Oh but this doth much trouble me, that I do not find any love in my heart to thee. Deut. 30.6 1 Joh. 4.19. C. What though thou dost not, yet I will circumcise thy heart and thou shalt love me: and when thou apprehendest my love to thee, thou wilt love me again. B. I have sinned (Lord) against thy mercies and abased thy love, yea loved my sins more than thee, therefore I cannot think that ever thou wilt look upon me with any love or delight. C. So did my servant David, 2 Sam. 12.8, 9 Hos. 2.5, & 14.4. & 2.9. and my people Jsrael do, yet as I loved them, so will I love thee freely, and betrothe thee to me in loving kindness and mercy. B. But Lord I have not only sinned against thy mercies, but against thy corrections, and chastisements also. C. So did my people Israel formerly do, Esa. 57.17 18. for when I smote them they went on frowardly in the way of their evil heart, but I lead them and restored comforts to them. B. I bui my condition is worse the ⁿ all that, for I have been long under the means of grace, and yet I am altogether fruitless; and like the barren Figtree. C, Thou troubled soul in me is thy fruit found, Joh. 15.5. Psal. 92.12, 13 14. and I will purge thee, and thou shalt bring forth fruit abundantly, for they that are planted in my house shall flourish and be fat and like a green Olive Tree. B. I Lord, its true, if I were a branch in thee and a true member of thy house, than I could believe these promises of thine; alas! I am neither of both, but separated from thee, and thy people. C. Do not say that thou art none of mine (for I have bought thee with my blond) and do not speak that thou art separated from my people; Esa. 56.3.5 for I will give thee in mine house, and within my walls, a place, and a name, better than the name of Sons and Daughters. B. Sure if I were not an outcast and a Reprobate, I should not be thus (as I am) in a wilderness condition. C, Israel was accounted an outcast and she cried out; Jer. 30.16.17, 22. yet I was then a God to her, and she a people to me. B. Oh if I were but one of thine, I should then count myself the happiest in all the world. C. Fear not my Spouse, for I am thy Husband, and thy Father. B. If I were one of thy Children thou wouldst not hid thyself from me as thou dost. C. I have hid myself and my face from some of my Prophets and people of old and yet it was in love to them, and so it is to thee, Psal. 88.14. Esa. 8.17. & 64.7. B. But thou hast hid thyself from me, and thou seemest also to be angry with me. Esa. 54.5. Jer. 31.9. C. Fury is not in me (towards thee) and though I be angry, yet my anger is but for a moment, Esa 27.4. &. 54.8. B. Yet Lord thou hast been angry with me a long time, for thou hast for gotten me. C. Zion did say so, the Lord hath forsaken me, and my Lord hath forgotten me: yet I had not forgot her; for she was graven upon the palms of my hands Esa 49.14, 15. jer. 51.5. B. But Lord if thou hadst not forgotten me, thou wouldst never have left me, in such a wilderness and barren condition as I am in. C. I have alured thee into the wilderness, that I might speak comfortably unto thee. Hos. 2.14. B. I have been may years in trouble, and terrors and wanting peace in my soul, which could not possibly have been, if I had truly believed in thee. C. But now will I speak peace unto thee, and I will guide thee into the way of peace. Psal. 85.8. Luk. 1.79. B. How Lord wilt thou speak peace unto me, i e. The Pray cheers Lips that preached peace. and guide me into the way of peace? C. I will create the fruit of the lips Peace, Peace, and my spirit shall be in thee and his fruit shall be peace to thy soul: Esa 57, 19 & 55.12. B. But Lord thy word saith; there is no peace to the wicked. C. No not to a man that will persist in his wicked way, and doth not, nor will not believe in me, but thou art one of those that I bore the chastisement of thy peace, and one of the Children of peace: Esa 53.5. & 54.13. B. But Lord how can I have peace, seeing a man cannot have peace before (and without) he does believe? C. Thou shalt have faith and peace, and I will give peace through believing: 2. Thes. 3.16.6. B. But Lord then I must know that I am one of thine. C. Thou shalt know that I am the Lord thy God, and that thou art one of my people: Ezek. 34.30. B. Oh how shall I know that. C. My spirit shall bear witness with thy spirit that thou art my Child. Rom. 8.16. B. But how shall I know that it is thy spirit that beareth this witness, and that it is not the spirit of delusion? C. Thou mayst know that by its power in working in thy heart which no other spirit can work alike: as also by the earnest and fruits there of: 2 Cor. 5.5. & 7.22. Gal. 5.22, 23. B. Lord what else shall I believe, besides being one of thine? C. Dost thou believe that? B. Yes Lord, I do believe, that thou art jesus the Son of God and the Saviour of the world: Act. 8 37. Joh. 6.69. & 11.27. C. But dost thou believe that I am thy Saviour. B. Lord I do believe that there is no other way to be saved but only by thee: Act. 4.12. C. But dost thou believe that thou shalt be saved by me. B. Lord I do believe, help my unbelief: Mark 9.24. C. To thee it is given to believe: Phil. 1.29. B. Now Lord I do believe. C. What dost thou now believe? B. I believe that thou lovedst me and didst give thyself for me, and that thou art my Lord, and my God, and that I am justified and shall be saved by grace: Gal. 2.20. Joh. 20.28. Act. 15.11. C. How cam'st thou tobeleeve this? B. Lord it is by thy gift and work that I do believe it: Eph. 2.8. Heb 12.2. C. Well; now thou dost believe, what wilt thou do? B. Lord what wilt thou have me to do? Act. 9.6. C. If thou love me keep my words: joh. 14.23. B. What are those words of thine? C. Search the Scriptures, for they are able to make thee perfect and wise unto salvation, and to furnish thee for every good work: joh. 5.39.2 Tim. 3.16.17. B. But Lord how shall I understand thy word? C. I will make known my words unto thee: Pro. 1.23. B. But Lord is there no danger of my departing and falling away from thee now I do believe? C. No, the Mountains shall departed, and the Hills be removed, but my loving kindness shall not departed from thee: Esa 54.10. jer. 32.40. B. Lord I will keep thy precepts with my whole heart Psal. 119 69. C. I have redeemed thee, that thou shouldst serve me without fear, in Holiness and Righteousness, all the days of thy life: Luk. 1.69. B. Come ye Children and I will declare what my Lord hath done for my soul. My SOUL shall make her boasts of the LORD, the humble shall be are this and be glad, and magnify the LORD with me, and let us Exalt his Name together: Psal. 34.11.2, 3. FINIS.