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SALOMON that most renowned & royal King, weighing the wretchedness of this world, by the weight of his wonderful wisdom; could no less but redouble his words and say, Vanitas vanitatum, 
Eccle. 1. 2.  vanitas vanitatum: & omnia vanitas. Which seeing it is so (Right 〈…〉) it behoveth every one of us, not somuch to avoid the causes that may provoke us to vanity, as to practise all the means that may procure us to piety; and to walk with such foresight in this terrestrial pilgrimage, as we may have fruition of felicity in the Celestial Paradise; according to the counsel of our Saviour Christ, who willeth us first to seek the Kingdom of God, and his 
Mat. 7. 33.  righteousness: and not dissenting from the saying of the Apostle, who persuadeth us to set our affections on things that are above, & 
Col. 3. 2.  not on things that are on the earth; Insomuch that all our knowledge is but vain, that is seduced with vanity: all our wisdom is but mere folly, that is carried away with earthly cogitations: yea all our doings detestable that tend only to temporal dispositions; for there is none to be deemed wise indeed, that will not bestow his talon in the treasure of God's word, considering it is so precious, that it ought more to be desired then Gold, yea then much fine Gold: and it is so delectable, that in sweetness it excelleth the honey, and the honey comb, wherein 
Psal. 19 10.  David did oppose his whole 
Psal. 119. 97.  delight: And it is so expedient for us to profit therein, as he that hath much, may yield somewhat, sithence that he that hath less, shall not be excused with nothing; the Lord will look for ten Talents, where he 
Mat. 25. 22.  left five, and will punish him that maketh no profit where he bestowed one. Hereof it is I have proceeded in this enterprise, and bestowed my time to the benefit of others which although it be not comparable to any commendable work, yet that is not excusable for any to detract his duty, seeing God will accept of a Mite, of a willing mind, neither aught to be contemptible amongst others, though all be not currant: for the building is furthered by inferior helps, though it be framed by finer heads.  
Again the world is now grown into his last age, wherein Sects, Schisms, and errors do spread, and sin and iniquity. aboundeth: Insomuch as (I fear me) it is with many of us in ENGLAND, as it was with the people of ISRAEL, they loathed 
Exod. 16.  Manna that fell from Heaven for the sustenance of their bodies, and too too many of us do little regard that spiritual Manna, (the word of GOD) that is sent for the succour of our souls. Hereof it I have made choice of your good 〈…〉 and presented my labours to your Godly patronage, assuring myself as you be favourers and followers of God's word, so you will be defenders of the fruits of the same, and rather be preferrers than defacers of a forward action, not doubting but your 〈…〉 will well accept of it, as a work importing and proceeding of good will, by the consideration of that example of the poor widow preferring the simplicity of the giver, before the sufficiency of the gift, knowing that the imperfection of the present may be covered by the presumption of the Poet; and I may say in the want of well doing, Est voluisse satis. Thus being loath to be too tedious in my Epistle, having observed brevity in all my said book, I refer the consideration thereof, to your grave censures; submitting myself to your good courtesies, and committing your to the protection of the Almighty.  
Your to command.   

To the Christian READER.  
HE that doth publish a matter to the judgement of many, the same requireth to be done, not lightly, but deliberately; considering it is a subject to sundry censures, and in reading and judging all are not Candidi Lectores. In regard whereof (good Christian Reader) I have published my pains to thy profit, and presented thy liking of it, to thy looking over, having (as nigh as I may) not only cut off all such occasions, as might cause cavillation, but also ministered such matter as concerns our consolation: and although it be not polished precisely, for the expectation of the curious; yet it is finished plainly for the information of the simple. Now it may be there be many that will use objections against the Triple form of this Treatise, because no art hath reduced allthings (and rightly) to Dicotomies. True; but wisdom may contrive much compendiously, and yet profitably: besides although I have framed it as an easy entrance for the erudition of the ignorant, I have not excluded what may further be added by the consideration of the learned, & abject much more might be inserted in many places for prolixity, yet much less I fear me is observed of the most part for their utility. Some will require a more direct placing of things in their order; Certes that is well placed, that is well applied: And those that do more respect the manner of placing, than the matter itself, may be noted in the number of those, who would have the Psalms of DAVID to proceed, and not to follow the Book of JOB; making a scrupulous question without cause, when we all know they are both included in the Scriptures, and contain comfortable matter for our salvation. Some will not like so many divers sorts of sundry things congest together in one heap, other will require more prospycuitie, some one thing, some another: Insomuch that he that expecteth to please the opinions of all people, must either refrain from open Publication of any thing, or refer himself to their general dispositions in judgement: And this is the common success of acceptance; many will commend it, most will mislike it, few will follow it. But as my meaning was to profit the simple, by the setting forth of it; so I shall persuade the godly to a good liking of it: and as for the froward, I will not refel their foolish questions in disputation about it, knowing what the Apostle Paul saith, that foolish and unlearned questions, engender strife.  
So wishing all to measure by the meet they would receive themselves, and so to report as 〈…〉 ●●●pect 〈…〉 pris● I both submit myself to reprehension, so it be pertinent; and commit every one to his own liking, so it be indifferent.  
Vale.  
Yours in the Lord.   

GOD'S Acre of Land, taken out of the holy Scriptures; And divers other learned Authors.  
EVERY man's knowledge ought to be reasonable towards 
Man 〈…〉 not presume  God, that he presume not to understand above that 
Rom▪ 〈…〉  which is meet to understand.  
appliable to himself, that ac●●●ding to his knowledge, he show 〈◊〉 same in his life and conversation 
Luke 12.  ●or else his great knowledge will ●o●●emne him.  
Profitable to others, that as he received the gift, he minister the 
●●er. 4. 10  same to others.  
He that would attain to an efectuall knowledge of God, must remember his precepts, his promises, and his threatenings.  
The eternal power of God, may be known by the revelation of his Word, by the creation of the world, and by the consideration of all his Works.  
The infaillible providence of God, may appear unto us by the 
Dan. 6. 6. jonas. 1. 15  preservation of Daniel in the Lion's Den: of jonas in the Whale's belly, and of the three Children, in the fiery Oven.  
The providence of God is wonderful, 
God's providence wonderful. M. P.  for he worketh by means. For meat is a mean to serve ●is providence for the preservation of health and life here, he that contemneth to eat because his providence is infallible; doth contemn his providence, without means: For if it were so that meat could not be had, then should we not tie his providence to this mean, for without meat, God can help and give health, and life here. Against means, for his power and wisdom is infinite, and therefore we should depend upon his providence, even when all is clean against us.  
The exceeding mercy of God, is made manifest unto us in the 
God's 〈◊〉 manifest.  Scriptures, by the miraculous examples of compassion, by the manifold words of consolation, and by the death of his only Son for our propitiation.  
He that mistrusts the mercy of God, denieth him to be Love, 
God's mercy must not be● mistrusted.  wherein consisteth all the hope of poor sinners, because of his great love, he sent his only Son to suffer death, for the remission of our sins, (Truth) because he promised for the love of his Son, pardon to all poor sinners, so oft as they require it in faith, with a contrite heart  
Power, because he is as true of his promises, as he is able to perform them; and as he is of power so will he do whatsoever pleaseth him.  
The superabundant love of God, appeareth unto us in this, that 
God's superabundant love.  he sent his own Son for our redemption, for our justification, and for our sanctification.  
The joys of Heaven, prepared for those that love God, are such: 
joys of Heaven. 1. Cor. 2. 9  as the eye hath not seen, the ear hath not heard, and the heart cannot conceive.  
Every man ought to know the difference in believing, A God is to be believed, he is the only true, & almighty 
Difference in believing. M. P.  God, this faith is Historical, for so Devils believe as well as the wicked, of God: All is true that he saith in the scriptures of him, & so do the evil Christians, as well as the good, unless they be Heretics. In God, is to love him, and to trust in his goodness, and in believing, to join ourselves to him by love, and obedience, this Faith is evangelical, only proper to the elect, (who live by Faith.)  
It is not sufficient for us to say, we know God, love God, and fear 
1. john 2.  God, unless we keep his commandments.  
God showeth upon earth, mercy, 
jere. 9 24. etc.  wherein consisteth our salvation: judgement, wherewith he punisheth the wicked: justice, whereby he preserveth the godly.  
God, often times crosseth and 
john 9 3. Luke 13. 3.  punisheth man upon earth, for his own glory, as appeareth by the Blindman; for example to others, as appeareth by the Galilean; for trial of his faith, as appeareth by job that patiented man.  
God in times past, spoke, and preached to his people by dreams, by visions, and by revelations.  
God hath appointed three places 
Three places appointed.  for all persons, the joys of Heaven, for the godly, the pains of Hell, for the wicked, the use of the Earth, 
●or all persons.  for both.  
God is worthily said to be Rich in mercy, in that he respecteth the 
●od rich in ●ercy.  humble freely. Mighty in justice, in that he judgeth the wicked justly.  
Bountiful in grace, in that he saveth 
Barnard.  sinners pitifully.  
God requireth no more at our hands: but these three things, Fear, 
Deut. 10. 12.  Obedience, and love.  
God ought to be beloved of us, with all our hearts, with all our souls 
Deut. 10. 12. Rom. 8. 28.  and with all our strength, all things work for the best to them that love God.  
God is loved effectually three 
God loved three ways.  manner of ways, entirely, in having a good will to him: rejoicing greatly, he is such a one as he is: orderly, in referring ourselves, and all that we have to him, in such manner and measure as he willeth.  
Love, is the end of the Commandment. 
● Tim. 1. 5.   
Love, cannot be without a good conscience. A good conscience, cannot be without Faith. Faith, cannot be without the word of God.  
We ought continually to be thankful to God, because, of him, 
Rom. 11. 3.  through him, and for him are all things.  
True thankfulness, consisteth 
True thankfulness. M. R.  in three things, commemoration, because in recounting Gods exceeding benefits, he hath done for us, we shall find the better occasion (if we will consider) to be the more thankful for them, as David did which made him in fervency of spirit burst forth into these speeches: What shall I render unto the Lord, for all 
Psal. 116. 12. 13. 14.  his benefits bestowed upon me.  
Abjection, because if we measure Gods benefits with our deserts, we shall find ourselves not worthy of the least, but in respect of our imperfections, we are no better than abjects, which we should not only acknowledge, and say with the same Prophet, Lord what is man that 
〈◊〉. 114. 3.  thou art so mindful of him? But also in regard thereof say (with him) I will not die: but live (to this end) to declare works & goodness of god, 
●sal. 118. 17.  he hath done for me. Narration, because it is not enough for us to receive God's benefits and be mindful thereof, but also we are bound to make others to profit thereby, and praise God, as the same Psalmograph 
Psal. 6●. 16.  did, come (saith he) and hearken all ye that fear God, and I will tell you what he hath done to my Soul.  
We ought continually to have the fear of God before our eyes, 
Pro. 9 10. Pro 19 23. Luke 1. 15.  because it is the beginning of wisdom, because it causeth us to departed from evil, because his mercy is on such from generation to generation. It was the treasure of Hezekiah. 
Esay. 33. 6.   
There be three kinds of fears, 
Fears three ●●ndes.  childly fear, this appertaineth to the godly: who fears God only for his goodness, without any finister 
Acts 9 31.  respects. Servile fear: this is proper to the wicked, who fear 
2. Kings 7. 3●.  God only for his punishment. Natural fear: this is common to 
Mat. 14. 26.  both, for faith often times faileth the very elect.  
The fear of God, (as Saint Barnard saith) is the water of wholesome wisdom, he that hath this fear before his eyes, his ways are beautiful, the well of Life: He that hath this fear before his eyes, his paths are peaceable, the beginning of knowledge: He that hath this fear before his eyes, his footsteps are unmovable.  
This may enforce us to fear God because he is said to be terrible, and 
Exod 23.  a God of revenge, because his house shall soon be overthrown: that 
Eccle. 27. 3.  fears him not, because he is such a 
Mat. 10. 28.  one as is able to cast both body and soul, into hell fire.  
God repent him of three things 
Gen. 6. 6.  that he made man on the Earth, that he made Saul King, that he 
●●m 15. 11. ● Sam. 24.  had sent evil to the Israelites.  
God never repent, although it seemed to man's judgement, when any thing goeth contrary to his temporal election: because his eternal 
Hosea. 13. 14 1. sam. 15. Eccle. 39 16.  council is immutable: because he is not man that he should repent: because all his works are exceeding good.  
God ought to be worshipped of us with our hearts, sincerely, because with the heart man believeth 
Rom. 10. 10.  unto righteousness: with our mouths boldly: because with the mouth he confesseth unto salvation, with our works accordingly, 
jam. 2. 17.  because by works he showeth the fruits of his faith and profession.  
In the true worship of God, this is to be considered, if we acknowledge 
Luke 12. 9  him in our hearts and deny him with our mouths, or any of our members, he will deny us, and this is no better than Idolatry, if we draw nigh him with our lips, 
Psal. 18. 41.  and are far from him with our hearts, he will not hear us, for this is mere hypocrisy, if we do works without faith, he will not accept 
Rom. 14. 13.  them, for it is but iniqoitie.  
Whatsoever we need; we must 
Phil. 4. 6.  require the same of God by Prayer, For although he knoweth our want 
Luke. 21. 39  before we ask, yet we must pray: because he hath commanded we should, because we continually want that grace which he hath promised 
Luke. 22. 40.  to give: because the devil is busy, lest we fall into temptation.  
Prayer is very expedient and profitable, (considering our whole 
Prayer profitable. M. Pla.  salvation in the calling upon the name of God) for thereby he is wholly present with us, by his fatherly providence, by the which he continually watcheth over us: infallible power, by the which he sustaineth and succoureth our weakness, being every moment ready to perish: infinite goodness, by the which he receiveth us into favour being miserably laden with sin.  
Our Prayers are to be used generally 
Prayers at ●ll times.  at all times; because the Lord hath promised to hear us at what time soever we call upon him 
Ezek. 18, 19  faithfully: in all places, because he 
Psal. 139. 6.  is every where, whither shall I go from thy spirit (saith David): for all persons, because it is our duty to pray one for another. 
jam 5. 16.   
In our prayer we are to consider in whose presence we stand, that 
Eccle. 18. 22. Consideration in prayer.  seeing we stand in the presence of God (to whose majesty so innumerable thousands of Angels do assist and be subject,) we may have a reverent regard of his majesty, in preparing ourselves to prayer, lest thereby we tempt him.  
To whom we speak, that seeing we enter common with him, that knoweth the secrets of our hearts, (before whom nothing is more odious than hypocrisy) we call upon him in truth, lest he reject our suits, what we desire, that seeing prayers at adventure are unprofitable (which proceed more 
jam. 4. 2.  of custom from the lips, then of zeal from the heart) we ask those things which be most to the glory of God, and the comfort of our consciences, lest we ask and receive not.  
We must offer and continue our Prayers faithfully without doubting, because the Lord hath not promised to grant, but only to such 
Mar. 11. 24.  as believe to obtain, and therefore he saith, whatsoever you desire when you pray, believe that you shall have it, and it shall be done unto you, charitablely without wrath; because we cannot be assured of God's favour, unless we forgive (which is after the manner of a Sacrament unto us) hereof saith our Saviour Christ, when you pray, 
Mar 11. 25.  forgive, that your father may forgive you. Incessantly without fainting; because the Lord requireth perseverance in our Prayers, according to that same saying of S. Paul. In due season we shall reap, if we 
Gale. 6. 9  faint not.  
We must not offer our prayers to any I doll; for it is abomination in the sight of God, to any earthly 
Deut. 17. 15. jere. 17. 5.  man, for cursed is he that putteth his trust in man. To any heavenly Saint; for Christ is our only mediator. 
john. 17. 3.   
Our prayers must be used and 
Prayers used. john. 5. 22.  offered to God by Christ jesus, because power is given into his hands, because in him, the Father is well 
Math. 3. 17.  pleased; because without him we can do nothing. 
joh. 15. 5.   
He that offereth an effectual 
Psal. 145. Peter. 3. Math. 6. john. 3. Psal. 109.  prayer, must have a lively feeling Faith. lest it be hindered: peace and love with his neighbours, lest it be no● regarded: a life answerable to this Faith, lest it be turned into sin.  
Our prayer hath his perfection 
Prayers perfection▪ 1. Cor. 5. 2●.  from Christ, or else it could not prevail: for he was made sin for us, that we might be made the righteousness of God, for to him that worketh not, but believeth in him 
Rom. 4. ●.  that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted righteousness, for we being justified through Faith, have peace towards God, through 
Rom. 5. 1.  him.  
Christ jesus, may very fitly be called our eyes: because by him we 
Christ our eyes.  see the Father. Our mouth: because by him we speak to the father. Our hand: because by him we offer to the father.  
The Lord will not always presently hear our prayers, or grant our requests; because he will try our faith and patience, Hereof saith David, I waited patiently for the 
Psal. 40. 1.  Lord, and he inclined unto me and heard my cry: because they are impertinent: for we know not what to pray as we ought: and therefore 
Rom. 8. 26.  we ask and have not, because we 
jam. 4. 3.  ask amiss, because they accord not with his pleasure: for this assurance 
joh. 5. 14.  we have, if we ask according to his will, he heareth us.  
To this end, in prayer we should lift up our eyes, that they may not 
Psal. 119. 37.  incline or be carried with vanity. Hereof saith David, turn away my eyes from regarding vanity. Our hands, that we should remember ourselves to be far off from God, unless we lift up our hearts also on high: and therefore saith the same 
Psal. 25. 1.  Prophet. To thee have I lifted up my Soul. Our hearts, that thereby we should know if our hearts be not far from terrestrial cogitations, we shall hardly receive any celestial consolations.  
We may lawfully in prayer ask corporal benefits of God: because 
Corporal benefits.  we should thereby know that he is the author and giver thereof, and should not only be thankful to him for it, but thereby to seek, love, and worship him, because we should 
Ios. 7.  be persuaded of his good providence towards us, in that he hath 
Ios. 7.  not only promised, he will never fail us: but also hath an outstretched hand, to help them that call upon him. Because our faith of recociliation and remission of sins, should be exercised through the ask of these corporal things.  
The fervent prayer of the righteous 
Prayer availeth. Exod. 8.  much avalyeth, not only for them, but for others. At Moses prayer the plague ceased. Elias, great 
1. King. 17.  plenty of rain. Queen Hester delivered 
Hest. 14.  her, and her people.  
We ought to refer all our prayers, 
Prayers etc. referred.  requests and doings to Gods good pleasure, following the example of Christ, when he was crucified 
Mat. 26. 4  without cause by the jews. Of David, when he was dispossessed of his 
2. Sam. 15. 26  Kingdom by his son, and of job, 
job. 2. 7 & 13  when he was afflicted most grievously by Satan.  
The means whereby we are 
Salvation.  drawn to salvation, is Faith, 〈◊〉, and Charity; The chiefest of these is love, because it serveth hear and 
Co. 13. 13  in the world to come.  
The work of a true faith is builded 
True faith builded.  upon things past, we believe the death of Christ is passed: things present, we believe at this present, he sitteth at the right hand of his Father; and things to come, we believe that Christ shall come to judge the 
August.  quick and the dead.  
Faith doth grow and increase in us, three manner of ways; By the hearing of the word of God preached: 
Faith increaseth 3. ways. M. P.  because it layeth before our eyes, the promises which God in his Gospel hath made unto us in his Son. By the reverent receiving of the Sacraments, because they being rightly received of us, are as pledges and seals of the promises of God, made unto us in his word. And by prayer and invocation, because God hath made an especial promise to us thereby, that he will hear whatsoever we ask according to his will.  
A true and lively faith must be 
A description of true Faith. M. S.  Simple in believing the word of god without enquiring or searching in Gods mystical matters by human reasons. Sound in defending the truth thereof with inclining or leaving to the erroneous opinions of the adversaries of the same. Constant, in following the same word without doubting, for any reason of man's blame that seemeth contrary, nor to be drawn away from it by temptations, promises or threatenings either of torment or of death.  
Such as will know whether they 
Faith the knowledge.  have an effectual faith, must consider, the fruis of it is, good works: for 
jam. 2. 17.  faith without works, is dead. The trial of it is Affliction, for it is not sufficient 
Phil. 1 29.  for us to believe in Christ, but also to suffer for his sake. The end of it is Salvation, for he that continueth to the end (hath this comfort) 
Mat. 24.  shallbe saved.  
A justifying Faith is known by these effects: It bringeth forth 
Mat. 7. 18. jam. 3. 18. Galat. 5. 6.  fruits; It worketh by love: It apprehendeth God's mercy offered in jesus Christ.  
Faith differeth from Hope, and 
Faith the difference.  yet we hope in things present, as when I hope I am in God's favour. things past, as when I hope my sins be forgiven me: things to come, as when I hope to have eternal life.  
Charity is a singular virtue, for 
Charity a virtue.  without it, what is Faith? It availeth little though it move mountains. Knowledge, it profiteth little though I speak with tongues of men and Angels. Martyrdom, It helpeth little though I offer my body to be 
1. Cor. 13.  burned.  
We ought to live in love & charity, 
How to live. 1. Tim. 1. 5.  because it is the effect and fulfilling of the Commandment and whole Law: Because it is a testimony unto us of our translation from 
1. john. 3. 14.  death to life, whereby we are made 
1. john 4. 8.  the Children of God and heirs in heaven: Because it worketh the cause in us, for God is love, and he that dwelleth in love, dwelleth in God, and God in him.  
Works of supererogation are 
Works of supererogation.  very frivolous, for our works are in no wise available to save us, by reason of their Imperfection: because all righteousness is no better than filthy 
Esa. 64. 6.  clouts (or as some writ) menstruous 
Rom. 11. 6.  clothes. God's election, because we should then chose God rather by our works, than he should elect us of his mere grace, and then grace were no grace. Christ's passion, because his son should have suffered in vain, if we had any sufficiency of ourselves.  
Although works are not the cause of our salvation, yet partly they are the effects of it: good works are very necessary to be used amongst Christians; That thereby God may glorified: That by their good examples 
Mat. 5. 16. 1. Peter. 3. 1. 2. Peter. 1. 10.  others may be won to the word: That by them they may make their Election sure.  
David numbered three degrees of our salvation. God's mercy, whereby 
Psal. 40. 10 Degrees of salvation.  he fatherly pitieth us: His righteousness, whereby he continually protecteth us: His truth, whereby appeareth his constant favour towards us.  
There be three causes of our salvation: The efficient cause God the 
Salvation 3. causes. M. P.  Father is the beginning of our salvation. The material cause, Christ jesus is he in whom our righteousness is resident. The Instrumental cause, faith is the mean whereby we apprehend the same.  
S. Paul approveth the formal cause of our salvation to be the free mercy of God: for whom he predestinateth, 
Rom. 8. 30.  he calleth: whom he calleth, he justifieth: and whom he 
Ephes. 2. 8.  justifieth, he glorifieth. By grace ye are saved through faith.  
Although there be many reasons whereby we may assure ourselves to be elected, yet we may briefly gather our election, by the holy Ghost, which testifieth with our spirit, that 
Rom. 8. 15.  we are the Children of God: by the fruits of the spirit, in having good works or will to do well. By remorse of conscience, joined with the loathing of sin, and love of righteousness.  
Election is known by these testimonies, Faith is gathered by sanctification, 
Election. Beza. 2. Thes. 10. 11  and according to the truth: truth is gathered by calling, through the preaching of the Gospel: The Gospel assureth us of a certain hope of glorification.  
Touching Election and Reprobotion, 
Elestion and Reprobation. M. Deut.  this is to be considered: That the only will and purpose of God is the chief cause of both. That his free mercy in Christ is an inferior cause of salvation. That the hardness of heart, is an inferior cause of damnation.  
This undoubted persuasion we ought generally to have: Every one is elected, or rejected at the beginning: Every one is an unprofitable servant, when he hath done his best: Every one shall have reward according to his work.  
We ought not to condemn or 
Condemn not. Psal. 64. 4.  judge any to be Reprobate (albeit to be without fear of God) and reverence of man, are signs of reprobation. Because it is a secret, only reserved to God, and therefore he 
Mat. 7. 1. jam. 4. 12.  hath said, judge not, that ye be not judged. Because the Lord is not so merciful in forgiving, as he is miraculous in calling; making of a persecutor 
Acts. 9 3.  an Apostle, as he did by Paul. Because the very Godly have 
1. Kin. 19 10.  been very greatly over gone in this matter, as that great Prophet of the Lord Elias in judging the people of Israel.  
These three steps do lead us into 
Barnard. Destruction 3. steps.  destruction; The dissembling of our weakness, The ignorance of our wretchedness: The excusing & persevering in our wickedness.  
The Scriptures are written for us, 
Scriptures writteo.  That we might know the will of god and follow it. That we might believe that jesus is Christ the Son 
joh. 20. 31.  of God. That in believing we might have life through his name.  
The whole Scriptures are divided 
Barnard. Scriptures divided.  into three parts: Law, Prophets, Gospel. The Law consist in doing, the Gospel consist in believing.  
This may persuade us to believe the authority of the scriptures to be true: The secret testimony of the 
Bib:  holy Ghost in our hearts, which causeth us to consent thereto. The incomprehensible Majesty of God appearing in the simple and sincere doctrine therein. The godly agreement of all parts together, with the orderly disposition, certainty and success thereof.  
The Scriptures do set forth unto us (amongst many other) three special matters which we ought to remember: The frailty of man, and his prone inclination to evil; The justice of God, and his severe punishment appointed for obstinate transgressors. The mercy of God, and his free pardon promised to penitent sinners.  
Every one ought effectually to know and search the holy scriptures (for knowledge,) because the ignorance of them is the cause of all error. (for confirmation,) because we must believe nothing, but that which is approved by them. (for consolation,) because in them is 
Acts 17.  contained eternal life.  
We may gather knowledge in the scriptures three manner of ways, by attendant hearing of the same well preached; By diligent reading of the 
Acts. 8.  same with understanding: By continual conference with such as can open them.  
The word of God than draweth us unto him, when it is so preached and heard, as we understand and learn what is taught thereby. When we receive thankfully that which is given, promised and assured therein. When we be moved with desire and diligence to do that which it commandeth. 
Word of god perfect word 1. Peter. 4. 8.   
The word of God hath then his perfect work, when it is Preached truly, Believed faithfully, Followed effectually.  
Such as will not believe the word of God, what followeth: If the righteous searcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and sinners appear? Every unfaithful, shall die in his unfaithfulness, saith Esdras. Every 
Esdras. 15. 4. joh. 3. 18. 2. Thes. 1.  unbeliever is condemned already And shall be punished with everlasting perdition.  
Ignorance can no way be excusable, 
Ignrance unexcusable Rom. 1. 19  for that which may be known of God, is made manifest unto us: For those that know not the Law, shall perish without the law. For the offering for ignorant sins, in the Levitical law, argueth no excuse to 
Levit. 4. 12.  be admitted.  
Our Saviour Christ describeth 
Mat. 13. A description.  by the parable of the Sour, three unprofitable hearers of the word. Such a one as heareth it, and understandeth it not, by reason the evil one cometh and catcheth it away out of his heart. Such a one as heareth it, and receiveth it presently with great joy, but when persecution or tribulation cometh, by reason of the word, he is offended. Such a one as heareth it, but the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches choke it, and the same is made unfruitful.  
We ought to resort to the Church of God, because his holy ministries 
Church of God must be used. M. Fox.  are there laid open, which are hid and obscure to many: because we may be united and coupled together by receiving the Sacraments: because if the Lord hath promised to grant our requests, where two or three be gathered together in his name, how much more will he be mindful of a multitude that so assemble themselves.  
The Church of God hath three 
Church 3. Ornaments.  ancient and excellent Ornaments,  

Preaching, Prayer, Sacraments.  
Preaching, engendereth Faith.  
Prayer, increaseth it.  
Sacraments, confirm it.   
The Church or Congregation 
Congregation must pray without difference.  ought to pray for all men, without any difference of Nation, kind, age, or order: because the Lord by calling of all sorts, yea sometimes those that are the greatest enemies to the Gospel, will have his Church gathered together after this sort, and therefore prayers to be made for all; because God should not else be manifested to be the only God of all men, unless he should show his goodness in saving of all sorts of men: because his son Christ jesus should not be seen to be the only mediator between God and of all sorts of men, by having taken upon that nature of man, which is common to all men, and made intercession for all.  
Sacraments are signs or badges 
Sacraments  of Christianity, seals or pledges of our faith, assurance of our salvation whereof there be two, Baptism and the Lords supper.  
The sacrament of Baptism, teacheth 
Bib: Baptism.  us to put on Christ, that his righteousness may cover our sinfulness: assureth us that we are grafted in Christ, that all our corruption is clean washed away, chargeth us to mortify and die to sin, that we may become his servants, and live in mutual amity.  
The sacrament of the Lords supper, 
Bib: Lords supper.  showeth us, that the body and blood of Christ crucified is the only food for the regenerate, assureth us that Christ is wholly ours, and that by faith our souls are fed and nourished in him unto everlasting life: requireth a thankful remembrance of his death, with unity amongst brethren.  
The sacrament of the Lords supper 
Sacraments M. Dent.  is unworthily received, when we receive it only by the visible sign, without regard of the invisible grace, when we receive it more of custom, then good consideration, or more for fear, then good affection: when we receive it disorderly (being drunked) or with a corrupted conscience (continuing in malice or enmity.  
The sacrament of the Lords supper must be received reverently: therefore let every one try and examine his knowledge. Eaten effectual, therefore let every one try and examine his faith. Digested thankfully, and therefore let every one try 
Article Religio. 26.  and examine his repentance.  
Good Ministers are most fit to minister the holy Sacraments, yet 
Good Ministers most fit  we may receive them by the evil, because they do it in Christ his name, and not in their own: because their wickedness cannot take away the effect of the ordinance, because of Christ's institution & promise, so it be rightly received by faith.  
These three things are to be noted (whereof hitherto hath arisen some question) concerning the sacrament 
Note three things.  of the Lords supper; By whom we receive it, we ought to receive it at the hands of the good minister, if it be possible; yet we must not reject the ministry thereof by the wicked, so it be done formally. With whom we receive it, we may communicate with every one, so the 
1. Cor. 5. 11.  be not such as are not notoriously known to be Drunkers, Adulterers and such like, for that is prohibited. How ought we receive it, we may rereive 
1. Cor. 11. 27  at all times, so our faith & confirmity be fit for the same: otherwise it will turn to our condemnation, saith Paul.  
It is a pitiful (nay rather a pestiferous thing) to see such placed in 
Apittifull thing.  the ministry as be Ignorant in learnning, for where there is no vision, the 
Prov. 29. 18.  people perish. Negligent in their calling, for they are accursed that do 
jere. 48 10.  the work of God negligently. Impudent in their living, for their lewdness maketh the word of god worse liked of. 
1. Sam. 2. 17.   
Idle Ministers, unpreaching Pastors, and such like, are nothing else, 
Idle Ministers. Esa. 56. 9 10. Ezek. 13. 4.  but; Blind watchmen, Dumb dogs, Subtle Foxes, who destroy God's vine for their own advantage.  
Godly Preachers will be very 
Godly Preachers.  careful, of the sincerity of their doctrine, that it be agreeable to the word of God: Of the integrity of their lives, that they be confirmable to the same word: Of all their whole actions, that they be profitable to the example of others.  
These sayings may move Preachers and such like, to be very careful; 
Sayings to move Preachers.  Because they must one day yield an account of their stewardship. Watchful, Because his blood 
Ezek. 33. 6. 1  shall be required at their hands, that dies in their iniquity through their 
Wisd. 6. 5.  negligence. Fearful, Because an hard judgement shall try him that beareth rule.  
Godly Preachers and Pastors are greatly to be accepted, for their office sake: Because they represent 
Luke. 9 41. Mark. 10. 41. 1. Thes. 5. 13.  the person of God. Loved, for their works sake: Because they dispose his secrets and mysteries. Obeyed, for Commandment sake: Because they are appointed Overseers, and watchers for our souls, as those 
Heb. 13. 17.  that must yield account for them.  
S. Peter willeth preachers, pastors 
1. Pete. 1. 18.  and such like, to feed their flock, caring for it; Not by constraint, but willingly: Not for filthy lucre, but of a willing mind: Not as though they were Lords over God's heritage but as examples to them.  
S. Paul showed a most worthy example to preachers and such like, by 
An example to preachers Acts 20. 31.  his dutifulness in preaching; For he ceased not by the space of three years, to preach and warn every one both night and day with tears: by his painfulness in labouring; For he wrought with his own hands to minister to his necessities, not 
1. Cor. 4. 12.  only because he would be chargeable 
Act. 20. 23.  to none, but also to help to relieve others: by his contentment in living, for although his living was little, yet he well accepted of all estates, without coveting any man's silver, Gold, or apparel.  
Preachers must teach the word of God, whether they regard it or no: because it may be a Testimony against 
Deut. 18. 19  the unbelievers, or neglectors of the same at the latter day: 
jere. 7. 27.  because the Lord will use the means of his servants to make the wicked more faulty to prove his: because it is their duty to be instant in season 
2. Tim. 4. 2.  and out of season.  
The spirit of Prophesiing and 
Io. 11. 51. 1. sam. 10. 10. 1. joh. 4. 1.  preaching is sometimes given to the wicked aswell as to the Godly, as by Caiphas, Saul, judas the Apostle. Therefore we must try the spirits whether they be of God.  
The word of God ought not to 
God's word not to be exempted to any.  be exempted from any estate, neither aught to be contemned in any person in respect of his condition, calling, or unworthiness; profesing the same profitably, considering God hath called Plowmen from the fields, to be Prophets; shepherds 
1. King. 19 19 Psal. 78. 7 Mat. 4. 18.  from the folds, to be zealous professors: Fishermen from the nets, to be followers of him.  
We must not condemn, or contemn 
Ministers not to be contemned.  the Ministers of God, if by infirmity they fall into horrible offences, for Satan hath beguiled the most Godly professors, as Lot 
Genes. 19 30  that ancient Patriarch, became incestuous. David that excellent prophet, 
2. Sam. 11. 25.  committed Homicide. Peter that good Apostle proved perjured. 
joh. 18. 27.   
It is very dangerous to despise, pensecute, or conspire the death of 
A dangorous thing.  the Ministers of God, as may appear by these three Examples.  
1 jesubel did threaten the death 
2. Kin. 19 35. & 36.  of Eliah, yet he lived and was taken up into heaven; when she died, and was eaten of Dogs.  
2 Saul intended the death of David, yet he escaped & became King; 
1. sam. 31. 4.  but Saul procured his own death 
2. sam. 1. 9 15  most desperately.  
3 Herod put to death john Baptist, 
Acts. 12. 13.  but as his deeds were detestable before God, so his end was ignominious to the world, for he was eaten to death with worms.  
Preachers Pastors and such like, 
Preachers subject to contempt. M. Grace.  of all others are most of all subject to contempt and enmity: Because Satan by policy procureth many to a disdain of their persons, as a mean to induce them to a disliking of their Doctrine: Because the spirits of error are now spread abroad, 
2. Tim. 3. 2.  which will deceive the hearts of many, and cause them to become cursed speakers, especially against God's ministers: Because these are 
2. Tim. 3  those perilous days, wherein it was long sithence prophesied, that many should be despisers of them which are good.  
Peter was three times commanded 
Bar.  to feed his flock, which is expounded three ways: with sound doctrine, with honest life, with good 
joh. 21. Flock fed  Hospitality.  
This word (Behold) doth commonly import some great admiration unto us, as it is used concerning Christ at his Nativity: Behold (saith 
Luk. 2. 10.  the Angel to the shepherds) I bring you glad tidings, that unto you is borne this day, a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. At his passion, Behold (at his yielding up of the ghost) 
Mat. 27. 51.  the vail of the temple was rend it twain the earth shaked, Stones cloven, the graves opened etc. At his second coming, Behold (saith our Saviour 
Apoc. 22. 12.  Christ) I come shortly, and my reward is with me to give to every man as his work shall be.  
Christ jesus came into the world, 
Christ's coming.  not as a just judge, but as a Physician: Not as a destroyer, but as a Saviour: Not to call the Just, but sinners to repentance.  
Christ jesus descended and came (as it was promised) Of the seed of 
Christ's Lineage.  Abraham. Bethelem brought him forth, Of the tribe of juda. Nazareth 
Theoph.  brought him up, Of the stock of David. Capernaum was his dwelling place.  
Christ jesus was transfigured upon Mount Thabor, was crucified 
Mat. 17. 1. Heb. 13. 12. Luk. 24. 50. Acts 1. 3. Christ transfigured.  at jerusalem: was taken into Heaven, at Bethaniah. He lived upon the earth before his passion Thirty Three years. After his resurrection, Forty days.  
Christ jesus consisteth of three 
Christ's of 3. parts.  parts. Godhead, Soul, and Body, who as touching his humanity, had no father: as concerning his divinity, had no mother.  
It was necessary that CHRIST 
Christ's death necessary. 〈◊〉 Mat. 26. 56. Gen. 3. 15. 1. Ioh 4. 9 1. Tim. 2. 6. Heb. 6. 11.  should die: That the Scriptures might be fulfilled. That he might bruise the Serpents Head. That we might have life through him.  
Christ is said to die (generally) for all the world, (specially) for those that believe: (valiantly) for that he overcame death.  
Christ had small comfort of his Apostles, when he was taken prisoner: for judas betrayed him, Peter forswore him, all the rest forsook him, And a great multitude followed him to his death: all to see the end of him.  
The benefit we reap by the death 
Colos. 1. 20. 1. john. 2. 2. Galat. 3. 13. Mat. 11. 30.  of Christ, is great. He reconciled us to his father. He redeemed us from the curse of the Law. He showed us an easier way to heaven.  
Christ by his death became for man, Curse, considering the quality of his death. Sin, considering 
Deut. 21. 23. Esa. 53. 9 Phi. 2.  the integrity of his life. Servile, considering the qualilie of his estate.  
It was requisite that Christ should 
Christ's resurrection requisite.  rise again after death; because he foreshowed it to his Apostles: because his flesh might not see corruption, because we might be justified through him.  
It was necessary that Christ should ascend after he was risen, that he might be fully glorified, that he 
joh. 7. 39 john 16. 7. joh. 17. 3.  might send down the Comforter: that he might become our Mediator.  
Christ said that the Comforter at his coming should reprove the 
Ioh 16. 8 9 10.  world of sin, because they believe not in him. Of righteousness, because he is gone to his father. Of judgement, because the Prince of this world is judged. 
A wonderful example Esa. 53. 7.   
Christ hath showed us a worthy example of Patience, because being oppressed and afflicted, he did not open his mouth; but was like a sheep dumb before the shearer: Of Humility, because he took upon him 
Phil. 2. 7.  the shape of a servant being equal with his father. Of Love, because he laid down his life for us: than this, what love can be greater?  
Christ is very fitly called a Priest, 
Christ a Priest.  because by his only Sacrifice he appeased his father's wrath. A King, because he reigneth over all. A Prophet, 
joh. 5. 22. Acts. 7. 37.  because he declared his father's will.  
There be three things that bear record of Christ in heaven, the father 
●. john. 5. 7.  who sent his son, the word which became flesh: the holy ghost which proceeds from both.  
There be three things that bear 
Rom. 8. 16. joh. 3. 5. Ephes. 1. 7.  witness of Christ upon earth, Spirit, this assureth us of our adoption, Water, assureth us of our Regeneration: Blood, assureth us of our redemption.  
Christ being the Truth, maifesteth▪ to us his Nature, so that in him we 
Christ manifesteth his nature.  must begin: the Way, manifesteth to us his Will, so that in him we must continue: the Life, manifesteth to us his office, so that in him we must 
Beza.  end.  
He that will come after Christ, must deny himself, wherein is laid before us Bondage, in denying himself. Take up his cross, wherein is laid before us Baseness, in taking up the cross. Fellow him, wherein is laid before us Hardness, in following Christ.  
Christ amazed and appeased his enemies three manner of ways, by 
Christ appeased his enemies.  his sound doctrine, by his strange Miracles, by his mild answers.  
Christ descended into Hell, as may appear by these places, for so 
Psal. 16. 10. joh. 20. 17. Ephes. 4. 9  we confess in the creed of Nicene, Athanasius, and the Apostles.  
Many produce these direction, to approve that the power, and not the soul of Christ descended.  
His speech to the Thief upon the cross, this day shall thou be with me in Paradise.  
His yielding up the Ghost, when 
Luke. 23. 4.  he said, it is finished.  
His Agony in the Garden, in sweeting drops of Blood and water.  
God spoke most by parables to 
God's speech by parables.  the multitude, because by seeing, they should see, & not perceive, because by hearing they should hear and not understand: because it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophets.  
The great Miracles and wonders Christ wrought in the world, were done partly to this end: to she● 
Mat. 15. 31.  the great power, glory and goodness of his father. To prove himself 
Acts. 2. 22.  the Son of God, and that he was sent of him. To confirm the authority 
joh. 11. 42.  and excellency of his doctrine, to win the unbelievers of it. 
joh. 2. 23.   
Miracles are often called in the 
Beza. Heb. 2. 4. Miracles called signs.  Scriptures, Signs: Signs, because they appear one thing, and represent another. Wonders: Wonders, because they import some strange and unexcusable thing. virtues: Virtues, because they give a glimpse of God's power.  
Three singular benefits shown to man, by the father, he sent his 
The father's 3. benefit.  Son for our reconciliation: by the Son, his righteousness is our imputation: by the holy Ghost, 
Yet all one union.  this proceedeth from both, for our sanctification.  
It is a singular comfort unto us, 
A singular comfort. D. King.  to consider the exceeding love of Christ towards us, (by that he hath done,) because he did not only sacrifice himself upon the cross for our sakes, but also satisfied his father's wrath for our sins. By that he still doth, because he did not only suffer for us, but became also a continual intercessor for us. By that he will do, because he hath not only saved us, but also come to judge.  
Such as will presume of the time 
Mat. 24. 36. markc. 13. 32 1. Thes. 5. 1. Acts. 1. 12  that Christ shall come to judgement, may ●e reproved by these places, ●or it is not for us to know the times and the seasons, the father hath put in his own power▪  
The coming of Christ is of 3. sorts. Unto men, Into men, Against 
john 1. 14 john 14. 18. Apoc. 22. 12.  men, Unto men, in the flesh. Into men, by his spirit. Against men, in judgement.  
It stands us not so much upon to 
Christ's coming to judgement not to be disputed on.  use disputation, of the time of Christ's coming to judgement, as to be in a daily preparation, and reformation of our lives, considering, every man's end is imminent & uncertain, every man's death is his latter 
jam. 4. 14. Heb. 9 27. Eccle. 11. 3.  day, every man as he dieth, so he shall be judged.  
The coming of Christ to judgement will be, Fearful to the wicked; 
Christ's coming fearful.  because that day to them will be the beginning of their woe: joyful▪ to the Godly, because it is to them the full fruition of their felicity. Wonderful to both, because of the sudden alteration of all things.  
These three things do argue the 
A sign of the world's end. Mat. 4. 23. Mat. 24.  world to draw to an end. The Figtree, because it flourisheth. Charity, because it waxeth cold. Iniquity, because it aboundeth.  
The coming of Christ to judgement will be of a sudden, as a woman 
Christ's coming sudden.  travailling with Child. As lightning from the East. In the hour we think not. Be sober and watch, for happy are those servants 
Luke. 12. 37.  which the Lord when he cometh shall find waking.  
Although it was said One Thousand Five Hundred years and more since, the day of the LORD is at hand; And yet the world endure: We must not suppose those words to be frivolous or frustrate: for thereby the Lord doth make manifest unto us (His infinite wisdom) In Computation of years, because he doth not reckon or record the time, according to our knowledge or reason: For one day is with him, as a Thousand 
Psal. 19 4.  years, and a Thousand years as one day. (His exceeding mercy) In delaying of the day, because he would not have us perish, but 
2. Pet. 3. 9  would all men to come to repentance. Our impudent misery, In 
Rom. 2. 4.  consideration thereof, because we do not use the bountifulness of his patience and long suffering accordingly. 
Account to be made. Rom. 2. 25. Mat. 12. 37.   
We must yield account at the later day of all our sins, committed (In cogitation, our thoughts shall either accuse or excuse us, In communication, our words shall either justify or condemn us.  
In Action, our works shall then have 
Heb. 9 27.  their due reward.  
Our great accusers at the yielding 
The Law our accuser.  up of our last account, shall be the Law: beside that, we shall stand helpless before so many judges as have excelled us in good works. The Devil, besides that, we shall be cast by so many evidences as have given us example of good life. Our Consciences, we shall be convinced with so many witnesses as have admonished us with wholesome counsel, and by their virtuous deeds, have been patterns for us to imitate.  
The Pope doth rather prefer, then make himself equal, with the 
The Pope.  excellency of our Saviour Christ.  
He will be the Supreme of all the world, exempting himself from all obedience to an earthly Prince, or reverence to any people, when Christ was content to acknowledge 
mat. 17. 27.  the authority of the Magistrate in Tole, yea even to such as were enemies to Religion. He giveth out his feet to be kissed of men, even of Kings and Emperors: when Christ did never so lay forth his feet; but that he washed his poor 
joh. 13. 5, 15  disciples feet, and that because they should do, as he had done to them.  
He doth of pity free one or other every day from the pains of 
Purgatory.  Purgatory, when our Saviour Christ did free none at all from those hellish pains.  
The Soul of man after death 
Soul of man.  doth go either to joy or pain immediately, whereof there be three examples, (besides manifest proves,) that may flatly refel their erroneous opinions of such as falsely affirm there is a Purgatory. The Soul received into Abraham's bosom. The Soul of the Thief ascending into Paradise. The soul 
Luke. 16. 22. Luke. 23. 33. Lu●●. 16. 2●.  of the Rich man descending into Hell.  
These three things are worthy continually to be noted. The secrets 
Note three things.  of God are unsearchable. The joys of Heaven are unspeakable. The pains of Hell are intolerable.  
A virtuous man disposeth his 
A virtuous man his disposition.  way in this world Prudently, to dispose and order things present: Penitently, to consider his misdeeds past. Providently, to provide and foresee for things to come.  
S. Paul divideth man into three 
Man's division.  parts, Spirit, for than is man fully sanctified, when his mind thinketh nothing. Soul, for than is man fully sanctified, when his will covets nothing. Body, for then man is fully sanctified, when his body executes 
1. Thes. 5. 23.  nothing, contrary to the will of God.  
A Godly Christian ought to live in this world, Soberly, concerning 
D. Milwood.  himself, that he keep his body temporately without abusing the gift of God, wanton or wastefully. justly, concerning his neighbour, That he deal plainly, uprightly, and charitably, without dissimulation. Godly, concerning God, That he presume not to much of himself but refer all to God's good pleasure and providence.  
A man should not do amiss saith Augustine, If forgetfulness confounded not his memory. If error obscure not his understanding. If iniquity▪ deprave not his will.  
The state of man is three ways to 
Man's estate  be considered, by creation, he was made like to the Image of GOD, 
Ephe. 4. 24.  which Image is expounded here, by fall and sin, he became slave unto Satan, and so procured the same thraldom to all posterities. By Regeneration, he is engrafted into Christ by faith, and in him hath recovered the former right.  
A man is happy in this world that 
Man happy  can rejoice in adversity, following the example of Paul. Bear all 
2. Cor. 11. 30  crosses patiently, following the example 
joh. 1. 1.  of job. Lament his sin sorrowfully, following the example of 
Luke. 22. 62  Peter.  
Every man should be mindful of his Creation, because he is dust and to dust he shall return. Of his Conversation, 
Gen. 3. Eccle. 12. 24.  because he must one day yield account of his living. Of his Dissolution, because his end is uncertain, 
Eccle. 11. 3.  and as he falls, such judgement follows.  
Herein consists the whole duty of man towards God, to fear him, for his justice: because it is horrible 
Man's duty.  to fall into his hands. To love him for his goodness, because he loved 
Heb. 10. 31.  us first: To keep his Commandments, 
1. john. 4. 19 2. john. 5. 3.  to confirm it, because those that love him, will keep his commandments.  
S. james willeth every man to be, 
jam. 1. 19  Swift to hear, Slow to speak, Slow to wrath.  
No man hath cause to glory in himself, if he consider what he is of himself, By Substance, he wa● 
Gen. 3. 7.  made of the dust. By Nature, h● is the child of wrath. By Knowledge 
Ephes. 2. 3.  he is but a beast. 
jere. 10. 14.   
For a man to glory or attribute any praise to himself in any good attempts, It is Vanity, because of himself he cannot think a good 
2. Cor. 3. 5.  thought, much less do a good deed. It is Arraganey, because he attributeth 
jam. 1. 17.  that to himself, which is proper to God, for every good and perfect gift cometh from above. It is Iniquity, because he doth not acknowledge 
Colo. 3. 17.  the giver thankfully, for all praise and honour is to be given to God.  
Herod by abridging GOD of 
Acts. 12. 23. Herod end.  his glory, came to a most miserable end.  
This may abate the high aspiring 
Eccle. 10. 9  mind of man, His birth being sinful, His life being miserable, His body being worms meat.  
Every man must have a Godly 
Man's care to live. Exod. 20. 9 1. Tim. 5. 8.  care to live in this world, because God hath commanded he should labour Six days, because he is worse than an Infidel, that provideth not for his household: because he may avoid the inconvenience of 
2. Thes. 3. 10. Prou. 12. 11.  Idleness, which bringeth much evil.  
A good Christian ought to be wise, unto that which is good, Simple, 
Rom. 16. 19 1. Cor. 1. 20.  concerning evil: Foolish in respect of this world.  
Heretics and erronnyous persons 
Heretics dangerous.  are very dangerous to be permitted amongst Godly Christians, considering their condition: Because they think it not enough to err and do evil themselves, except 
Esa. 3. 10. Wis. 14. 21.  they draw others with them as appeareth. In considering their corruption: Because by continuance they will defile many, for a little leaven, leaveneth the whole lump. 
Heb. 12. ●5.  Considering the season, because in these latter times many shall give 
1. Tim. 4. 1.  heed to spirits of error and doctrine of Devils.  
Wicked men are f●tly compared in the Scriptures, To Thorns, because 
Comparison  they be as pricks to procure hurt to the Godly.  
To Chaff, because as the wind doth scatter the Chaff, so shall the be soon cut off from the face of the earth. To tars, because as tars are to be bound in bundles and burnt, so shall they in hell fire.  
Wicked men are called by sundry names, and compared in the 
A comparison of wicked men.  Scriptures, To Foxes, because they are subtle in undermining, and doing of mischief, Insomuch as the Church requireth to have the foxes 
Cant. 2. 15.  taken away. To Dogs, because they are Currish in controlling and barking against all goodness. Hereof Paul willeth the Phillipians to 
Phil. 3. 2.  beware of Dogs. To Beasts, because they are profane in their lives, and degenerate from their kind worse than beasts. So Paul 
1. Cor. 15. 32  complaineth that he fought with beasts at Ephesus after the manner of men.  
The wicked and ungodly, are 
Wicked men not to be supported.  not to be supported purposely, because it is an abomination before God to justify the wick. Accompanied 
Prou. 17. 15.  willingly, because it is dangerous, for he that toucheth pitch, 
Eccle. 13. 1.  shall be defiled. Condemned utterly, because the Lord will have 
Rom. 9 15.  mercy on whom he will, and when he please.  
These sayings may terrify such as attempt any evil. The face of the 
2. Pet. 3. 12 Rom. 2. 9  Lord is against him; Tribulation and anguish shall be upon his soul: There shall be no end of plague's 
Pro. 24. 20  to him.  
God tempteth no man to evil, 
God tempteth not any.  but we are drawn to it, by the Devil, who watcheth to work our overthrow. By our own concupiscence, to consent to his suggestions. By vicious company, and ill persuasions of others, when we be seduced.  
The Devil will undermine us in our muse, if we take not great 
Barnard. The Devil undermineth.  heed, for in them he talketh with us wittily; he eggeth us cunningly: He deceiveth us craftily, whom if we resist by faith, the Lord will overlook us fight, secure us fainting: crown us overcoming.  
The Devils have knowledge after 
jam. 2. 19  a sort, for they believe there is a God, and fear and tremble. They can plead scripture for their own purpose: They acknowledge the 
Mat. 4. 6. mat. 829.  coming of Christ to judgement.  
The Devil hath three evil properties, he is subtle as a Serpent, for he can transform himself into many shapes, (yea into an Angel 
The devils properties 3. M. Smith.  of Light) and use many shifts to deceive withal. He is sttong as a Lion, for he is not so busy in seeking daily for his prey, as he is forcible to resist where he assaulteth. He is cruel as a Tiger, for where he hath any entrance at all, he will never rest, until he bringeth to confusion.  
The Devil useth three policies 
The devils policies 3.  to tempt Christ in the Wilderness, persuading him, to distrust in God, To the desite of riches and honour: To a vain confidence of himself.  
We have three cruel foes that fight against the spirit in this life. 
Three cruel foes.  The Flesh, The World, And the Devil. The fiercest foe in this fight is the Devil: whom we may expel with these three weapons. Faith, Prayer, The word of God.  
We ought not to follow the lusts of the flesh, but lead our lives holy, 
Beza. 1. Pet. 2. 11.  because those lusts though they flatter us, yet they cease not to fight against our salvation. Because we are Citizens in heaven, and therefore aught to lead our lives thereafter although we be strangers hear. Because the glory of God is greatly set forth by that means, whilst by example of our honest life, even the most profane men are brought unto God, and submit themselves unto him.  
There are many walk in this world (saith Paul) whose God is 
Phil. 3 19  their belly, whose glory is their shame, whose end is damnation.  
The wretchedness of this world made Solomon say, the day of death is better than the day one is borne: 
Eccle. 7. 3.  made job say, My soul is cut off 
job. 10. 1.  though I live: made Paul say, I desire to be loosed from this life. 
Phil. 1. 23.   
What should we so account of this world, seeing the fashion of it goes away. The wisdom of it is mere foolishness. The amity of 
1. Cor. 7.  it, is enmity with God. Use this world as though ye used it not saith Paul.  
These three things may withdraw 
Note three things.  a man from desiring long life in this world. The wretchedness of his life, because it is but a continual temptation and full of misery. The grievousness of his sins, because they will more increase by continuance. The greatness of his Account, because it will be the more fearful at the yielding up.  
The Godly desire to be out of 
Godly their desire.  this world, because it is variable and nothing but vanity, because of the innumerable evils they are subject unto, because they long to be clothed with the heavenly habit.  
Life is very sweet, and so sweet that it hath provoked the Godly to 
Life sweet. M. Dodd.  prolong the safety of it by shifts.  
David doubting of evil dealing, feigned himself mad to save his life.  
Paul perceiving their cruelty that would kill him, had rather in the night be let down in a Basket, then abide.  
Peter fearing death, did forswear his Master.  
The faithful and Godly in this world do daily Fight, by reason of their adversary. Faint, by reason of their Infidelity. Fall, by reason of 
Psal. 37. 24.  their infimity, yet the shall not be cast away.  
These three things are worthy to be considered, he that liveth 
three things to be considened.  best doth daily sin. He is happy that hath grace to repent. He is blessed to whom God imputeth no sin.  
Although every man is a sinner, yet every sin is not of like consideration, for some sin of Ignorance 
1. Tim. 13. 2. Sam. 11. 2 Dan. 3. 1.  as Paul did: some of Infirmity, as David did: some of Malice, as Nabuchadnezzar did.  
Every sinner must beware of 
Sinners to beware of 3. things. Mat. 24. 50 Rom. 6. 1.  these three things, of Procrastination In delaying the time of repentance, Of Presumption, In presuming still upon hope. Of Provocation, In sinning obstinately against the holy Ghost.  
Sin is nothing else but a sweet poison, a flattering death, and a destruction 
Sin two sorts.  of the soul: whereof there be two sorts, Original, and Actual  
ADAM did further his fall and increase his sin in the Garden 3. 
Adam's fall  ways, by Ambition, because he 
Gen. 3. 6.  thought to be as GOD knowing good from evil. By Hypocrisy, because 
Gen. 3. 10.  he hide the cause of his nakedness, which was the breach of gods 
Gen. 3. 12.  Commandments. By Impenitency, because he was so far from acknowledging his transgression, that he burdened God with his fault, in that he had given him a wife.  
It appeareth by this that sin is Execrable, because it repent God 
Sin execrable. Gen. 6. 6 Zepan. 1. 3.  that he had made man on the earth. Detestable, because he destroyed dumb creatures for our cause. Intolerable, because he would not spare his only Son for our sins.  
It is an exceeding comfort to a sinner, to consider, That God is as 
An exceeding comfort. M. Rog.  well a Father as a Lord. That Christ is as well a Saviour, as a judge. That the Scriptures includ, as well a Gospel as a Law.  
Sinners should not despair of God's mercy, if they did but perceive 
Sinners not to despair.  his goodness, which appeareth unto them, by his readiness in calling, before they cry (saith the Lord) I will answer, and whilst 
Esa. 65. 24.  they are yet thinking what to speak, I will hear. By his worthiness in 
Wis. 11▪ 20.  sparing he maketh as though he saw not the sins of men, because they should amend. By his unwillingness in striking, he taketh 
Ezek. 18. 23.  no pleasure in the destruction, but in the conversion of Sinners.  
What greater comfort can sinners have, sith Christ himself saith 
Sinners comfort.  Ask, and ye shall have. Seek, and ye shall find. Knock, and it shall be opened unto you. I stand at the door and knock, etc.  
He that will obtain mercy by 
Apoc. 3. 20.  true repentance, must acknowledge his sins sorrowfully with the Prodigal Son: Must show a hearty contrition for the same, and loathe them. Must do good works worthy 
Acts 26. 20.  amendment afterward.  
He that is fully persuaded of the forgiveness of his sins, it behoveth him to remember these three 
Remembrance of 3. things.  things. The mercy of God, that he be thankful unto him for his gracious goodness shown unto him, by remitting his offences, and receiving him into his favour. The Subtlety of Satan; that he watch and pray continually, for the Devil 
1. Pet. 5. 8.  goeth about like a roaring Lion seeking whom he may devour.  
The frailty of himself, that seeing his own infirmity he may the rather depend upon God, and crave his mercy to increase his faith and strengthen his weakness, or else he shall not be able to withstand the opposite evils he is subject to.  
God showeth himself to all his people: Merciful to the Elect, In 
M. Pe.  pardoning their sins. Good to the Reprobate, Albeit they cannot feel the sweet comfort of the same▪ Just, to both of them: In giving judgement.  
The Lord will not reject the suit of a sinner, neither accept of it, unless in ask he hath a special regard of these three things. Of the time: For the Lord will not be found at all times, but requireth opportunity. Hereof saith the Prophet Esay, Seek the Lord while h● 
Esa. 55. 6.  may be found, and call upon hi● while he is near. The Five foolish Virgins coming to late, were excluded. 
Mat. 25. 12.  Of the manner: For the Lord will not only have such as call upon him, depart from iniquity, but will also have their prayers proceed from the very heart.  
Then shalt thou call (saith the same Prophet to the Hypocrites,) 
Esay. 58. 9  and the Lord shall answer, thou shalt cry, and he shall say, here I am. Of the end, For God requireth not only opportunity of us in ask; as appeareth by the woman of Canaan, but also respecteth the 
Mat. 15. 28.  end of our requests, in ask according to his will, otherwise we may ask, and receive not, because we ask amiss, to consume it on our 
jam. 4. 3.  lusts.  
He that will reclaim a sinner, 
Observation of 3. things. D. King.  must observe three things in handling of him, which the Apostle saint Peter practised with the jews.  
1 Demonstration of the matter, in showing him (by the word of God) it is a sin, that it may so appear unto him: whereby he may the better acknowledge it before God.  
2 Reprehension of the Offence, In reproving him (by the judgements of God, pronounced against the same) that he may both hear the punishment he hath worthily deserved, and also thereby, be the more terrified from attempting evil.  
3 Exhortation to the sinner, In persuading him (by the promises of God's mercy) that he may not only be driven from despair, but also by that means be drawn to amendment.  
The same notable example of Manasses in his conversion, doth 
A notable example.  minister singular matter to every sinner, wherein he may note three special causes for his comfort. 
Note three special causes.   
1 That God will punish the wicked, that he intendeth to save: that by this means they may seek him by repentance, according to that same saying of the Psalmist, when he slew them, he sought them and 
Psal. 78. 34  returned, and sought God early.  
2 That the mercy of God is very great, who although he will not suffer sin to pass unpunished, yet he is ready to forgive, though it be very grievous, as he hath promised by the Prophet Esayas, to such as 
Esay. 55. 7. 8, & 9  heartily repent.  
3 That those whom God hath 
Luke. 1. 75.  thus called, are not to return to their sins, as the dog to his vomit, but as becometh new borne Children, to live in holiness and righteousness all the days of their life.  
God keepeth his Children commonly in this world sparingly, that they may not be to proud with prosperity; that by this means they may the better see their own misery: that thereby they may the rather depend on his mercy. 
Godly care of time.   
The Godly think that day to be ill spent, wherein they Do nothing, that may make to the glory of God: Wherein they Say nothing, that may make to the comfort of themselves. Wherein they Think nothing, that may make to the edyfiing of others.  
Tribulations and affliction are to the Godly and faithful a confirmation 
A confirmation of God's love. M. Dent.  of God's love: Because he will not suffer them to be condemned with the world, and therefore he chastiseth those whom he loveth. A probation of their faith and patience: Because he will see if they will stand as strict to him now, as they promised in prosperity, not that God is ignorant of the issue, but because he would have it appear to others, that he doth Crown such 
Mat. 24. 13.  with his glory, as continue constant. A purgation of their lives: Because he useth these crosses to make them remember their miserable estate that by these means they may be made perfect against the day of restoration.  
The Godly do rejoice in Tribulation, knowing that Tribulation bringeth forth Patience; Patience, Experience: Experience, Hope: And hope maketh not ashamed.  
The afflictions of the Godly differ from the wicked, because the 
Beza. 1. Peter. 4.  Godly communicate with Christ in their afflictions, and therefore shall in time also be partakers of his glory: because in suffering these crosses, their adoption is sealed in them by the spirit of God, although the Infidels think far otherwise, who in afflicting the Godly, blaspheme God. Because they are not afflicted for their evil doings, but for righteousness sake, which ministereth unspeakable joy to them.  
The faithful in their afflictions, 
The faithfuls confidence. 1. Cor. 10. 13  have this confidence in God: that he will la● no more upon them, than he will make them able to bear. That he will deliver them out of their troubles in a good time. 
Apoc. 2. 10.  That he will give them a Crown of life in the end.  
Such as suffer affliction may take 
Comfortable sayings. Act. 14. 22.  comfort by the consideration of these sayings. We must by many afflictions enter into the Kingdom of Heaven. All that live 
2. Tim. 3. Rom. 8. 18.  Godly in Christ, shall suffer persecution. All the afflictions in this life, are not counted worthy of the glory of the life to come.  
Afflictions are very necessary for the Godly, because their faith is 
Beza. ●am. 2. 3. afflictions necessary.  tried through afflictions, which ought to be most pure, for so it is behooveable for them: because patience is a far passing and more excellent virtue, is by this means engendered in them. Because the Cross is as it were the Instrument wherewith God doth polish and fine them, therefore the works and effects of afflictions, is the perfecting of them in Christ.  
Patience is very expedient for Christians: That by it their faith 
Patience expedient. Phil. 4. 5.  might be confirmed. That thereby they may be made perfect and 
jam. 1. 4. Hob. 10. 36.  entire. That after they have done the will of God they might receive the promise.  
There be three worthy examples 
3. worthy Examples.  of patience set forth unto us.  
The Example of Christ himself 
jam. 5. 10.  the only pattern of patience.  
The Example of job, whose patience ye have heard of.  
The Example of the Prophets, whose patiented examples appear unto us.  
These three points are required of the faithful. That their talk 
Psal. 37. 30. 31. etc.  be Godly; That God's law be in their heart: That their life be upright.  
There be three things very dangerous for the Godly, Prosperity 
3. things dangerous.  of themselves: because it maketh them to forget God. Hereof saith David, I said in my prosperity I will 
Psal. 30. 6.  not be moved. Prosperity of the wicked: because it maketh them dispute with God, thinking he doth not rightly consider of them, as the 
Psal. 73. 13.  same Prophet did. Extremity of affliction: because it maketh them despair of God, thinking he would destroy them utterly; Insomuch as the same Psalmist burst forth with 
Psal. 39 13.  these sayings. Stay thine anger from me that I may recover my strength before I go hence, and be not.  
Cornelius was a devout man in 
Acts. 10. 2.  three respects: He feared God with all his Household. He gave much Alms to the people. He prayed to God continually.  
And job a just man in three respects. He feared God. He eschewed 
job. 1. job. 31. 16.  evil. He did good works.  
He that will be acceptable to God, must be, Just in word; Upright 
Barnard.  in deed: Undefiled in his thought.  
The Just do rejoice at the punishment of the wicked, because 
Psal. 94. 2.  thereby God showeth himself judge of the world, and by this means continueth his honour and glory. Because hereby he showeth he 
Psal. 41. 11.  hath care over his Children, in that he punisheth their enemies: Because 
Deut. 17. 13. 2. Thes. 3. 14.  by their example others may fear, and be reform in some measure.  
We ought to love and do good to our enemies: Because Christ 
love our enemies.  himself did so, whose example we ought to imitate. Because it is not 
Luke. 3. 24. Mat. 5. 46.  praise worthy, to love where we are beloved, for so do the Hypocrites and Publicans. Because it 
Rom. 12. 17. 20.  is our duty, not only to suffer injury, but also to do good.  
Such as continue in malice and 
Mark. 11. 25.  hatred should consider their prayers are unprofitable, if they ask mercy and forgive not. The Lord's supper 
1. Cor. 11. 27  is profaned, if they receive it unworthily. They themselves are 
1. joh. 3. 13. 15.  but Manslayers if they live not in charity.  
These three things (saith the Son of Syrach) My soul loveth, 
3. things to be loved. Eccle. 25. 1.  Unity of Brethren. Love of Neighbours: And agreement of man, and wife.  
Every one ought to know, how 
Knowledge how to live.  far and in what manner he ought to love. A mutual friend in God; because in loving other he shall offend God: for he that loveth father or mother (much less a common friend) more than me saith our Saviour Christ, is not worthy of me. 
Mat. 10. 37.  A malicious foe, for the love of God: because he cannot love God 
2. joh. 4▪ 20.  whom he hath not seen, if he loveth not his brother that he hath seen. A manifest sinner, for humanity sake: because we ought to have a consideration of his soul, though we have a detestation of his 
2. Thes 3. 15.  sins, according to the council of the Apostle, who willeth us to account such a one not as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother.  
There be three things prohibited, which ought not to be used of 
3. Things to be prohibited.  any to their very enemies. To envy their estate: Because envy turneth to a man's own evil in the end 
Galat. 2. 21.  according as it was written, No envious persons or such like, shall not inherit heaven. To rejoice at their full: because it is dangerous, 
Pro. 24. 18.  lest the Lord see it (as Solomon saith) and it displease him, and he turn his wrath from him, to be avenged on thee. To render evil for evil: because it is the part of a 
Rom. 12. 20.  good Christian, not to use the means to further a mischief, but to overcome evil with good.  
David being both a Prince and 
Psal. 78. 72. A King's charge.  a prophet, showeth wherein a King's charge standeth. To provide faithfully for his people. To guide them by counsel. To defend them by power.  
Such as are called to be Rulers 
Magistrates.  and Magistrates, aught to be men of courage, fearing God. Men 
Exo. 18. 21.  dealing truly, hating Covetousness. 
Deut 1. 13.  Men of wisdom and understanding.  
Such as intent evil attempts, or use any rebellious means, or mischief against Gods anointed, 
Kings and princes must remember  Kings and Princes should remember the end of these three Examples 
3. examples 1. Sam. 24. 5. 6.  David having but privily cut off the lap of a King saul's garment, was touched vehemently in his heart for it. Absalon having betrayed King 
2. sam. 18. 14.  David his Father, came to an untimely death, for he was hanged by the hair of his head upon an Oak. Achitophel being a coadjutor in preferring 
2. sam. 17. 23.  the lewd practices of Absalon, against his father; when he perceived his counsel prevailed not, he went desperately and hanged himself.  
He that will use reverent obedience to his Prince, must be very 
Dangerous to offend.  careful to consider, how dangerous it is to offend, in thinking evil: for the foul of the heaven shall carry 
Eccle. 10. 20.  the voice, and that which hath wings shall declare the matter. In 
Exod 22. 28.  uttering evil, for it is written: Thou shalt not speak evil of the rule of thy people. In committing evil, for if the Lord doth detest the evil intent, and forbidden filthy speeches, how much more doth he abhor his act of evil, and will punish the Malefactors.  
There be three points commendable a●d necessary for him 
3. Commendable points. Hest. 10. 3. aec  that is in authority. To have the favour of the people. To procure their wealth. To be gentle and loving towards them.  
Good and Godly Magistrates 
Magistrates obeyed. Rom. 3. 5.  ought to be obeyed in respect of Conscience, Because they are ordained of GOD, whose will is, they should be obeyed. Fear, because they are his Ministers to take vengeance 
Rom. 13. 4. judg. 16. 6.  on them that do evil. Necessity, because where no rule is, all things go to ruin.  
Herein consists the whole duty 
Magistrates duty. Wis. 6. 8.  of Magistrates, That the higher they are placed, the sorer is their trial. That their negligence in suffering evil, is their iniquity. That the ill example of themselves is a double sin.  
There be three things not tolerable in any Magistrate. Partiality, 
Levit. 19 15. Deut. 1. 17.  in respect of persons, for that is abomination in the sight of god. 
Mat. 4. 24.  Cruelty, in ministering justice, for such measure as they meet, shall be met to them again. Bribery, in detaining right, for fire shall consume 
joh. 15.  the houses of bribes.  
He that will be Master over a 
Master's duty.  Godly Household, must know his own duty to his Family, Wife, Children and servants, and how to ●se them being well disposed or evil inclined.  
The duty of the Housholder, is: 
Pro. 27. 23. Psal. 78 5. 1 Tim. 5. 8.  To know the state of his flock. To instruct them in the fear of God. To provide carefully for his family.  
The Husband ought to have a 
Honsholders care.  special honest care and love to his Wife, in three respects. Because she cometh of his own flesh, and therefore who will be biteer to his own body. Because they are the weaker vessels, and therefore who will not bear with their infirmities. Because she was made a comforter to man: and therefore he is worse than a beast, that will be cruel to her.  
There be three causes should 
Wife obedient.  move and make the Wife obey, honour and submit herself to her husband. The Priority of man's 
1. Tim. 2. 14.  Creation: Because Adam was first fo●med, Eve afterward for his sake.  
The Superiority of his placing, because man was made to bear rule 
Ephe. 5. 23. Superiority.  Whereunto Paul very well alludeth and saith: That as Christ is the head of the Church, so is the man of the woman. The iniquity of the woman's procuring, because the 
1. Tim. 214. Gen. 3. 16.  man was deceived by the woman, whereupon God enjoined her (amongst other) this punishment of subjection.  
Parents must have a great regard 
Parents.  of their children, in observing three things. That they bring them up 
Ephe. 6. 4.  carefully in the Information of God, lest they grow graceless. That they bridle them discreetly, 
Pro. 22. 6.  while they are young, lest they grieve them when they are old. That they provoke them not too rigorously at any time, lest they 
Collo. 3. 21.  discourage them.  
Such Children as are obedient to 
children's duty.  their Parents, shall have this benefit: They shall live long upon the earth. They shall prosper in all 
M. Perk.  their proceed. They shall have joy of their own Children.  
Children ought to obey their Parents, by the Law of God, by the course of nature, by the rule of reason, so it be in the Lord.  
Master's should continually remember, 
masters duty.  That they have a Master above that seethe all. That they shall receive for the wrong they offer, of him who respecteth no persons. That they be as careful to redress their faults, as ready to reprove their servants escapes.  
Herein consists the duty of servants: To obey their Masters in 
servants duty. Ephes. 6. 6.  the Lord, without murmuring. To do their duty in singleness of heart, without eye-service. To suffer patiently rebukes and chastisements without resisting.  
Riches oftentimes be the means 
Riches.  to cause Impiety, as appears by the Parable of the young man. Security, as appears by the Parable of the rich man. Misery, as appears by the Parable of Dives and Lazarus.  
Wicked, wealthy worldlings 
Amos. 6. 1. Esay. 65. 13. jam. 5. 1. Mat. 20.  should do well to consider continually of these places. A rich man shall hardly enter into the kingdom of heaven.  
Such as gather their goods by usury, bribery, extortion or such 
Pro. 28. 8.  like unlawful means, what followeth. They gather them for such as (Solomon saith) will be good to the poor. The rust of their gold 
jam. 5. 3.  and silver as (S. james saith) will be a witness against them, and eat their flesh as it were fire. They lie in grave like Sheep, as (David saith) and death gnaweth upon 
Psal. 49. 14.  them.  
Although worldlings do make 
Phil. 3. 8. Worldlings God.  their God of their goods, yet the just man doth but esteem Gold & Silver to be coloured Earth, yea but dung. Worldly and voluptuous feeding, to be filth and famine. Dignity and delight, to be smoke which the air consumeth suddenly.  
Riches are good in this respect, If we can use, and bestow them to that end they are given us: If we can as willingly leave them, as receive them: If we set not our 
Psal. 62. 10.  hearts on them, as they increase.  
It is a vain thing for a man to hunt so greedily after these worldly goods, or take such delight in gathering: 
Esa. 49. 17. 1. Tim. 6. 10.  Because he shall take nothing with him, when he dieth: because he cannot prolong his life with them though he hath abundance, because they will not avail 
Ephe. 5. 5.  him in the day of wrath.  
covetousness is contemptible 
covetousness. Eccle. 6. 2. & c  in any, especially in such as GOD hath sent plenty unto: because it is a plague to a rich man to want a liberal heart. Because it is the root 
1. Tim. 6. 10.  of all evil. Because it will be their own destruction in the end.  
Riches should not make a man high minded, if he did but think upon God. Because he is but his Steward over them for a time. Because he can ympoverish him as he 
job. 1. 12. Acts. 12. 23.  did job. Because he can punish him as he did Herod.  
God hath chosen in this world, 
God's choice.  Foolish things, to confound the wise. Weak things, to confound the mighty. Vile things & things 
1. Cor. 1. 17.  which are not, to bring to nought things that are.  
Although begging be a miserablelife, yet we must not despise the 
Begging.  poor; For he that despiseth them despise him that made them. For God hath made them as instruments for 
Pro. 17. 5. Deut. 25. 11.  the trial of our hearts and charity. For God hath chosen the poor in 
jam. 2. 5.  this world, that they should be rich in faith and heirs of his kingdom.  
Adversity and poverty is oftentimes 
job. 1. Adversity.  sent of God, for the trial of our faith, as appears by job, whose safety of substance was taken away. For amendment of our lives, as appears by the Prodigal son, who by these crosses was reclaimed. For 
Pro. 20. 13.  neglect of our vocation, as appears by salomon's saying, love not sleep lest thou come unto poverty.  
We ought to give to the poor, for the glory and honour of God. 
Pro. 3. 9  Give for Commandment sake: 
Mat. 5. 16.  For good example to others. Give for necessity sake: For a sign of 
jam. 2. 18.  the sincerity of our profession. Give for nature's sake. 
Poor a comparison. Pro. 12. 10.   
It may appear unto us by way of comparison, we ought to give to the poor, for if a good man will have pity on his beast, how much more ought we to respect a Christian. 
joh. 3. 16.  If we ought to lay down our lives for our brethren, how much more ought we to relieve them with our goods. If a Factor ought to dispose his goods where his temporal Master pleaseth: how much more ought we to distribute them, where our eternal Master appointeth.  
He that giveth to the poor, 
Gifts to the poor secret. Mat. 6. 2. Rom. 12. 8. Eccle. 35. 10.  must bestow his benevolence:  


1 Secretly, without ostentation.   

2 Liberally, according to his ability.   

3 Cheerfully, without grudging.    
This assurance hath he that giveth 
Pro. 19 17. Pro. 28. 27. Mat. 25. 40.  to the poor: He dareth to the Lord: He shall not lack; He shall not want his reward.  
The poor aught rather to be bidden to Feasts, than the rich: because such have most need. Because 
Mat. 25.  they can make no recompense. Because it is most acceptable to God.  
Feasting is not amiss, so it be used; In remembrance of God's benefits: 
Nehe. 8. Feasting allowed.  For the maintenance of mutual friendship. Towards the relief of the poor.  
We must be more mindful of the poor, if we did but remember 
A dangerous thing. Pro. 28. 27.  how dangerous it is: To hide our eyes from them, such shall have many curses. To stop our ears at their cry, such shall cry and not be 
Pro. 21. 13.  heard. To show no mercy at all: such shall have merciless condemnation. 
jam. 2. 13.   
Pure Religion consists in this: To visit the fatherless and widows 
Barnard. Religion.  in adversity. To follow the Example of Christ. To keep thyself unspotted of the world.  
Such as will be perfect Christians in Religion ought not to be 
Revel. 3. 19 Christians.  Hot, Cold, Lukewarm; but zealous professors.  
It is very dangerous to deal 
A dangerous thing.  craftily in this world, because it greatly offendeth God, who is the Author of truth: Because it defraudeth a man's Neighbour with a show of honest meaning. Because it destroyeth the deceiver in the end. 
Pro. 19   
Hypocrites may well juggle with the world, but they cannot deceive 
Hypocrites.  these three. GOD, For he seethe their secrets, and will one day reveal all. DEATH, For he cometh of a sudden, and will destroy them with all. The DEVIL, For he waits for their Souls to reward them for all.  
An Hypocrite is resembled to these three things. A sheep in 
woe to you hypocrites.  skin: He talketh smoothly. A Fox in subtlety: He intendeth craftily. A Wolf in cruelty: He attempteth villainy.  
Truth is a most excellent treasure 
Truth excellent.  and worthy to be, Honoured: Because it overcometh all things. Embraced, Because it defendeth all things. Advanced, Because it endureth for ever.  
Such as delight in Lying, should but remember the Author of it. It 
Lying.  is a seed of the Devils sowing. The evil of it, It is abomination before the Lord: And the end of it, It procureth sorrow to his own soul at the last.  
This discommodity cometh of lying: when one doth accustom it, he shall seldom leave it; when 
Lying the discommodity.  he saith truth, he shall hardly be believed; when he is known to be such a one, the better sort will abhor him.  
He is happy that in his communication hath an eye in fear to 
Heb. 10. 3. Feane of God.  God's Majesty, because it is fearful to fall into his hands. To his Brother's frailty: Because it is the easiest thing of a Thousand to offend him. To his own safety, because he must give account of every Idle word.  
Our Communication ought to 
Communication what. Esa. 19 Heb. 6. 16.  be yea, and nay; yet we may lawfully Swear: For the glory and worship of God. For confirmation of truth and equity. For discharge of our conscience being lawfully called  
The Magistrate may lawfully require 
Oaths.  an oath, so it be done for the manifestation of justice, judgement, and Truth. But we ought not to swear, vainly, when there is no cause at all: Lightly, upon every small occasion. Rashly, without good consideration.  
Who shall inherit heaven (saith 
Psal. 24.  David) He that hath clean hands & a pure heart. He that hath not lift up his mind to vanity. He that hath not sworn to deceive his neighbour.  
The Mischiefs that ensue of Lechery, 
Lechery.  are many, if we confer the beginning with the end, at first it tickleth the flesh with touching, afterwards it poisoneth the mind with filthy delights; and last of all by consenting to sin, both body & soul are overcome. The sin of Lechery is the pleasants to the devil, because it hurteth body & soul, because he was never touched with it, being a spirit: because it bringeth a heap of other sins withal.  
The Lecherous man in this life 
Lechery tormented.  is three ways tormented, with the heat of the Harlot; with the pain of his hurt: with the worm of his own conscience.  
The Son of Syrach, saith there 
Eccle. 25. Sirach his hatred.  are three things which his soul hateth. A poor man that is proud. A rich man that is a liar. An old Adulterer that doteth.  
There be three special reasons, that fornication should be eschewed Because it defileth the body with a peculiar kind of filthiness, Because 
Fornicators Sacrilegious persons.  a fornicator is sacrilegious, for that our bodies are consecrated to God: Because we ought both in body and soul, to serve him, who hath saved us.  
This briefly is to be observed in 
Eccle 26. A Whore's Comparison.  a Whore: She brings a man to a morsel of bread, therefore compared to a Dog. She hunts for the precious life of him, therefore compared to a Sow. She leads him the high way to Hell, she is therefore compared to Dung.  
A whore is to be abandoned, if 
A Whore abandoned. Deut 23. 17. Pro. 23. 28. 2. Esd. 16. 42.  it were but for these causes, because God hath forbidden any such to be suffered: Because she increaseth the transgressors among men: Because she envieth honest and virtuous women.  
There be three things may terrify 
A Thief terrified by 3. things. Bradford.  a Thief in his lewd attempts: the precept GOD hath set down, (that is) Thou shalt not steal. The Positive Law of this Land (that is) Death of body. The importable judgement to come: destruction both of body and soul.  
A thief by following one (that is the Devil) he offendeth three. He displeaseth God, by breaking his commandment. He hurteth his neighbour, by taking away his right. He hateth his own soul, 
Pro. 29.  by following sin.  
This inconvenience cometh of Idleness, when one is rooted in it, 
Idleness the inconvenience.  it will hardly be● removed: when he hath the end of his lust, it will be most loathsome: when he is so idle, the devil is most occupied.  
There be 3. things that grieved the wise man: A man of war, that 
Eccle 26. 29. Wiseman grieved.  suffered poverty. Men of understanding that are not set by. When one departeth from righteousness to sin.  
God punisheth his people for their sins with 3. kinds of plagues 
Plauges 3. kinds.  which commonly go together. War, Famine, and Pestilence: And where he blesseth, there followeth three benefits, Peace, Plenty, and 
Blessings 3. kinds.  Salubrity.  
Christian Soldiers fight but faintly, if they want these weapons. 
Ephe. 6. 12. soldiers weapons.  The Shield of Faith, The Helmet of Hope, The Sword of the Spirit.  
Every Christian Soldier hath 3. 
soldiers enemies. jam. 4. 1. Ephe. 6, 12.  enemies to encounter with, the lewd affections of themselves: The evil provocations of the people. The daily suggestions of Satan.  
There were three persons spared 
Persons spared from the Wars. Deut. 20 7. Deut. 24. 5. Deut. 20. 8.  in the old Law from going on warfare, he that was betrothed to a maid, he that was but new married: he that was faint hearted.  
God sendeth Rain, Cold, Heat, Tempest and such like oftentimes, 
job. 37. 13. Weather.  to punish man, to profit the earth, to declare his favour towards man.  
One may eat flesh at all times, so it be done without scruple or doubting, 
Flesh.  without offence of our brother without breach of Godly orders. For every creature of God is good, and nothing aught to be refused, if 
1. Tim. 4. 4.  it be received with thanksgiving.  
Our meats are sanctified unto us 
Beza. 1. Tim. 4. 5. Meats.  by the word of God and prayer, because we confess and acknowledge that God is the maker and giver of those creatures which we use, because we are of the number of those, who through Christ's benefits have recovered that right over all creatures which Adam lost by his fall: Because by our Prayers we crave of the Lord that we may use those meats with a good conscience, which we receive at his hands.  
Such as by their Doctrine will 
Difference made of meats. Fox.  make difference of meats, the same may be called Devilish or deceitful, in three respects.  
1 Because the teachers of them make laws of things which are not their own, for God created the meats.  
2 Because they overthrow with their decrees, the end wherefore they were made of God, (to wit) that we should use them.  
3 Because, by this means they rob Christ of his glory, who will be honoured in the use of them.  
Our behaviour ought to be used, 
Behaviour to be used.  To our Betters, reverently; To our Equals, lovingly; To our underlings, lowly.  
We ought to call our Elder, Father; our Younger, Brother; every man our Neighbour.  
Marriage was instituted for three ends. 
Marriage.   


1. For a remedy against Incontinency; It is allowed of the patriarchs.   

2. For the propagation of Children; It is condemned by the Prophets.   

3. For the consolation of Man & Woman; It is followed by the Apostles.    
Men are made three manner of 
Mat. 19 12.  ways.  


1. By Nature; such are borne of 
Chastity.  their mother's belly.   

2. By Art; such as be made chaste by men.   

3. By Grace; such as have made themselves chaste for Heaven.    
We have great cause to rejoice at these days, more than our predecessors had.  
1. Because Christ hath made easy 
Mat. 11. 31.  unto us that importable yoke they were subject to.  
2 Because he hath brought v● the glad tidings of salvation, which 
Rom. 16. 17  they longed to see.  
3 Because many Prophets and 
Mat. 13. 17.  righteous men have desired to see these days.  
Although honest Mirth be tolerable, yet foolish or excessive mirth 
Mirth.  is Vain.  
1 Because such mirth shall be mingled with mourning, and the end of such joy is Lamentation.  
Wicked: Because thereby we clean forget the means that should make us remember our misery. 
Eccle. 7. 4   
Dangerous: Because our Saviour saith, Woe be to them that now 
Luk. 16. 25  laugh, for they shall wail and weep.  
There are three kind of Fools.  


1 Such as are naturally borne 
Fools three kinds. Pr. 17. 21. 25  without wit, and those (as Solomon saith) are a grief to the father, and a heaviness to her that bore them.   

2 Such as become fools, and 
1. Cor. 3. 18.  are so contented to be counted in this world, that they may be wise in the world to come.   

3 Such as are given over to their own lusts, and follow all kind of filthiness; these are they whom David called Fools, who lewdly say in their hearts (as they falsely think) 
Psal. 53. 1.  there is no God.    
A wise man is noted and discerned three manner of ways.  
1 By discreet Silence, for as Solomon 
Pro. 27. 28. A wise man noted three ways.  saith, his peace is counted wise: not that any should be restrained of speech, but that they should observe opportunity in speaking; Hereof saith the Philosopher. Qui nescit ta●●re, nescit loqui.  
2 By modest Speech: For it is proper to fools to be full of frivolous talk, but he that hath knowledge (saith the wiseman) spareth his 
Pro. 17. 27.  words.  
3 By sober Life: For he that is heavenly wise indeed will (as St. james saith) show by conversation 
jam. 3. 13.  his works in meekness of wisdom.  
Sickness is very necessary for 
Eccle. 7. 4. Sickness necessary. 2. King. 20 2. Heb. 12. 6.  man for three causes.  


1 Because thereby he is put in mind of his own frailty.   

2 Because thereby he shall be better incited to call upon God.   

3 Because it is a testimony unto him of the love of God. 
Loath to die     
He that is loath to frame himself to die especially in sickness, 
Heb. 11. 13.  doth show himself Unnatural: Because he so little desires to be at home with his heavenly Father, considering he is here, but as a stranger and a Pilgrim. Unwise, 
1. Cor. 7. 13.  Because he taketh felicity in the vanity of this world, considering the fashion of it goes away. Wretched: Because he had rather still live to augment his misery, then frame himself by a Godly end, to embrace eternal blessedness.  
In our sickness we ought to remember 
M. Dent.  three things.  

1 To seek to God to purge our sins, which are the chief cause of all our diseases.  
2 To use the help of the Physician, as a mean by whom God worketh.  
3 To dispose our temporal goods where they may make most to his glory that gave them.   
For a man to make his Will in 
Will made.  sickness or health it is Lawful; because the Lord willed Hezekiah to 
2. King. 20. 1.  put his house in order before he died. Godly; because his mind being quiet in worldly matters, he shall the better apply it to heavenly motions. Necessary; because a good stay being made, it shall cut off occasion of contention, that may happen afterward.  
The minds of men are very mutable, 
M. Rodg.  and their opinions (especially such as be perverse) are very scrupulous to please: For, he that did well, offended some, and yet was an Apostle. He that did worse, pleased many, and yet was but a Beast. He that did best of all, could not please all: and yet was a God.  
ENLAND hath three special 
Enland thankful for three causes.  causes to be continually thankful to God for.  
1 The free passage of the Gospel.  
2 The blessed time of Peace.  
3 The Godly Governor thereof. Which Passage, Peace, and Prince; The Lord for his mercy sake, still prosper, preserve, and protect. Amen.  
FINIS.   

A Morning Prayer to be used in Private Families.  
O Lord our God and heavenly father, we thy unworthy Children do here come into thy most holy and heavenly presence to give thee praise and glory for all thy mercies & manifold blessings toward us: especially for that thou hast preserved us this night past, from all dangers and fears thereof hast given us quiet rest to our bodies and brought us now safely to the beginning of this day, and dost now afresh renew all thy mercies upon us, as the Eagle reneweth her bill, giving us all things abundantly to enjoy: as food, raiment, health, peace, liberty, & freedom from many miseries, diseases, casualties, & calamities, which we are subject unto in this City every minute of an hour, & not only so, but also for vouchsafeing unto us many good things, not only for necessity, but even for delight also. But above all (dear Father) we praise thy name for the blessings of a better life, especially for thy most holy word & sacrament, & all the good we enjoy thereby: for the cotinuance of the Gospel amongst us, for the death of thy son & all that happiness which we have thereby. Also because thou hast chosen us to life before we were, & that of thy mere goodness, and undeserved favour towards us, & hast called us in thine appointed time, justified by thy grace, sanctified us by thy spirit, and adopted us to be thine own children & heirs apparent to thy great Crown. O Lord, open our eyes every day more & more, to see & consider of thy great & marvelous love to us in all these things, that by the due consideration thereof, our hearts may be drawn yet nearer unto thee, even more to love thee, fear thee, and obey thee: that as thou art enlarged towards us in mercy, so we may be enlarged towards thee in thanksgiving: and as thou dost abound towards us in goodness, so we may abound towards thee in obedience & love. And sith (dear father) thou art never weary of doing us good, notwithstanding all our unworthiness & naughtiness, therefore let the consideration of thy great mercy and fatherly kindness towards us, even as it were force our hearts, & compel us to come into thy most glorious presence with new songs of thanksgiving in our mouths. We pray thee (O most merci-God) to forgive us all our unthankfulness, unkindness, profane & great abusing of all thy mercies, and specially our abuse & contempt of thy Gospel: together with all other sins of our life, which we confess are innumerable, & more than can be reckoned, both in omission of good things, & commission of evil. We most humbly entreat thee, to set them all over to that reckoning which thy son Christ hath made up for them upon his cross, and never to lay any of them to our charge, but freely forget all, & forgive al. Nail down all our sins & iniquities to the cross of Christ, bury them in his death, bathe them in his blood, hide them in his wounds: let them never rise up in judgement against us; set us free of the miseries that are upon us for sin, & keep back the judgements to come both of soul & body, goods, & good name▪ Be reconciled unto us in thy dear Son, concerning all matters past; not once remembering or repeating unto us our old & abominable iniquities, but accept us righteous in him, imputing his righteousness to us, & our sins to him. Let his righteousness satisfy thy justice for our unrighteousness, his obedience for our disobedience: his perfection for our imperfection. Moreover we humbly beseech thy good Majesty to give us the true sight & feeling of our manifold sins, that we may not be blinded in them through delight, or hardened in them through custom, as the reprobates are: but that we may be even weary of them, and much grieved for them, labouring & striving by all possible means to get out of them. Good Father, touch our hearts with true repentance for all sins; let us not take any delight or pleasure in any sin, but howsoever we fall through frailty, (as we fall often) yet let us never fall finally; let us never lie down in sin, or continue in sin, but let us get up upon our feet again, & turn unto thee with all our hearts, & seek thee whilst thou mayest be found, & whilst thou dost offer grace & mercy unto us. O Lord increase in us that true and lively faith whereby we may lay sure hold on thy son Christ, & rest upon his mercies altogether. Give us faith, assuredly to believe all the great & precious promises made in the Gospel, and strengthen us from above, to walk & abound in all the true & sound fruits of faith. Let us grow daily in the sanctification of the spirit, and the mortification of the flesh: Let us live holily, justly, and soberly in this present evil world, showing forth the virtues of thee in all our particular actions, that we may adorn our most holy profession, and shine as lights in the midst of a crooked & froward generation, amongst whom we live, being gainful to all by our lives and coversations, & offensive to none. To this end we pray thee, fill us with thy spirit, and all spiritual graces; as love, wisdom, patience, contentment meekness, humility, temperance, chastity, kindness and affability: and stir us up to use prayer & watchfulness, reading & meditating in thy Law, & all other good means whereby we may grow & abound in all heavenly virtue bless us in the use of the mean from day to day: make us such as thou wouldst have us to be, and such as we desire to be, working in us both will, deed purpose, and power.  
For thou O Lord, art all in all: thou wilt have mercy upon whom thou wilt have mercy: & whom thou wilt, thou hardnest. Have mercy upon us therefore (dear father) & never leave us to ourselves, nor to our own wills, lusts & desires, but assist us with thy good spirit, that we may continue to the end in a righteous course, that so at length we may be received into glory, and be partakers of that immortal Crown, which thou hast laid up for all that love thee, & truly call upon thee.  
Further we entreat thee O heavenly Father to give us all things necessary for this life; as food, raiment, health, peace, liberty, & such freedom from those manifold miseries which we lie open unto every day, as thou seest meet. Bless our stock & store, corn and cattle, trades & occupations, & all the works of our hands: for thy blessing only maketh rich, & it bringeth no sorrows with it. Grant these things good father unto us here present, and to all thine absent, praying the in special favour, to remember our friends & kinsfolks in the flesh, all our neighbours & well-willer, & all those for whom we are bound to pray, for jesus Christ's sake our only mediator & advocate. Amen.   

An Evening Prayer to be used in private Families.  
O Eternal God, and our most loving and dear Father, we thy unworthy children do here fall down at the foot of thy great Majesty, acknowledging even from our hearts, that we are altogether unworthy to come near thee, or to look towards thee, because thou art a God of infinite glory, and we are most vile and abominable sinners, such as were conceived and borne in sin and corruption: such as have inherited our father's corruption, & also have actually transgressed all thy holy statutes and laws, both in thoughts, words, and deeds, before we knew thee, and since, secretly & openly, with ourselves, & with others, our particular sins are more than can be numbered: for who knoweth how oftentimes he offendeth? But this we must needs confess against our own selves, that our hearts are full of pride, covetousness, & the love of this world; yea, the very sinks of sin, and dunghills of all filthiness; so that thou hast hast just cause to proceed to sentence of judgement against us as most damnable transgressors of thy holy Commandments; yea, such as are sunk in our rebellios, and have many times and often committed high treason against thy sacred Majesty: and therefore thou mayest justly cast us down into Hell fire, there to be tormented with Satan and his Angels for ever: and we have nothing to except against thy Majesty for so doing, sith therein thou shouldest deal with us, but even according to equity, and our just deserts. Wherefore (dear Father) we do appeal from thy justice to thy Mercy, most humbly entreating thee to have mercy upon us, and freely to forgive us all our sins past whatsoever, both new and old, secret and open known and unknown, and that for jesus Christ his sake our only Mediator and Redeemer.  
Give us therefore) dear father) every day more & more sight and feeling of our sins, with true humiliation under the same. Give us also that true & lively faith, whereby we may lay hold upon thy dear son Christ, & all his merits, applying the same to our own souls: so as we may stand fully persuaded, that whatsoever he hath done upon the Cross, he hath done for us particularly, as well as for others. Give unto us faith (good father) constantly to believe all the sweet promises of the Gospel, touching remission of sins & eternal life, made in thy son Christ. O Lord increase our faith, that we may altogether rest upon thy promises which are all yea & Amen. Yea, that we may settle ourselves, & all that we have, wholly upon them: both our souls, bodies, goods, name, wives, children, & our whole estate, knowing that all things depend upon thy promises, power & providence: And that thy word doth support & bear up the whole order of Nature. Moreover we entreat thee O Lord, to strengthen us from above, to walk in ever good way and to bring forth the fruits of true faith in all our particular actions, studying to please thee in all things, and to be fruitful in all good works, that we may show forth unto all men by our good conversation, whose children we are: and that we may adorn & beautify our most holy profession, by walking in a Christian course, and in all the sound fruits & practise of Godliness and true religion.  
To this end we pray thee sanctify our hearts by thy spirit yet more and more; sanctify our souls and bodies, and all our corrupt natural faculties, as reason, understanding, will, & affections, so as they may be fitted for thy worship and service, taking a delight and pleasure therein, stir us up to use prayer, watchfulness, reading, and meditation in thy Law and all other good means whereby we may profit in grace and goodness from day to day. Bless us in the use of the means that we may die to sin, and live to righteousness Direct all our steps in thy word, ●● none iniquity have dominion over v● Assist us against our special infirmity and master sins, that we may get th● victory over them all, to thy glory, and the great peace & comfort of our ow● consciences. Strengthen us, good Father, by thy grace & holy spirit against the common corruptions of the worl● as pride, whoredom, covetousness, contempt of thy gospel, swearing, yin● dissembling and deceiving. Oh dear● father, let us not be overcome of those filthy vices, or any other sinful pleasures, and fond delights wherewith thousands are carried headlong into destruction.  
Grant these things, and all other needful graces for our souls or bodies, for jesus Christ's sake. In whose name we further call upon the as he hath taught us saying, Our Father which art, etc.  
FINIS.