COUNSEL FOR SUFFERERS, OR Helps under Sufferings from. Acts 5: 41. And they departed from the presence of the Council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name. Sapienti meliora sunt in votis, deteriora vero in expectatione: Plut: de tranquil. Gravius est vulnus quod non expectatur, & illa agrius tollerantur, quibus homose non prius assue facit. Aug. London printed, for JOSEPH HALL., Bookseller, & Book-binder, on Tine-Bridg New Castle upon Tine, 1683. To the Christian READER. CHristian Reader, I nothing doubt; but the worthy Author will be in esteem with, and get the approbation and testimony of all that either now are, or hereafter may be trysted with a suffering lot for their owning of, and cleaving to the truths of Jesus Christ, for his plain, free, and faithful endeavours in the following treatise. It needs no testimony from man to an impartial Reader; for it is stamped with such a divine image, and bearing such clear lineaments of heavenborn truths, as testify it to be of God, and therefore oblidgeth us to receive it, as into our houses, so into our hearts. Further, I make bold to tell thee, Reader, who ever thou art; if thou haste received a spiritual relish, thou shalt taste much sweetness in this (it being so suitable and seasonable) following discourse which clears up these six, solid, sound and most necessary propositions. First; That the condition of God's people in this world is a suffering condition. To suffer, etc. Secondly, that shame is one great piece of, and ingredient in their sufferings. To suffer shame, etc. Thirdly, that the profession of Christ's name is the great ground of the saints sufferings. To suffer shame for his name, etc. Fourthly, It is a great dignation of God to call out his people to suffer for his name. Worthy to suffer shame for his name, etc. Fifthly, that an opportunity to suffer shame for the name of Christ, aught to be esteemed and entertained not only willingly, but joyfully. Rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name, etc. Sixthly. The consideration of Christ's name being in our sufferings, is sufficient to quicken us to joyfulness in them. And they departed, etc. In the handling of which, it may be truly said of the Author. (Alluding to that Prov. 31: 29. many Daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all) if there be any thing wanting here which happily thou might have expected impute it to the want of the Author's hand & subscription how ever I would not keep from thee what is here, though I could not give thee what is wanting. It is storied of Democritus, that he put out his eyes that he might contemplate the better; I do not counsel thee to do so, but if ye would wink with one; the eye of carnal reason and slavish fear (captivate every thought to the obedience of Christ,) thou might with that other of faith, take the better aim at the mark to obtain the price of the high calling in Christ Jesus. Thus not willing longer to detain thee from the perusal of the Book itself, I commend both thee and it to the blessing of God, and bids you far well. Acts Cap. 5. vers. 41. And they departed from the presence of the Council, rejoicing that they were Counted worthy to suffer shame for his Name. IT was the saying of Bishop Jewel, that famous and shining light of our Church: That it becomes a Bishop, or Minister of the Gospel to die preaching. It was Augustine's wish of old. That he might die, either preaching or praying. Accordingly we find the Apostles in this chapter preaching in the face of death its self; we find them breathing out God's grace to man, while they are breathing out their lives into the Arms of God's grace. Commending of God to the world, while they live in the world, yea when they were leaving of the world; while the world persecute Christ, the Apostles preach him. It was a time of great opposition and public persecution; as ye may read in the History of this Book, yea of this very chapter; But the Apostles continued in the work of the Gospel: They went not a foot of the way of their Calling and station, notwithstanding all the malice of their enemies, but continued the same by many signs and miracles, for by the hands of the Apostles, Chap. 5.12.13. were many signs and wonders wrought among the people; so as their persons received honour, and a great accession was made unto the Church by their Ministry. God will not own his people in haltion days, but in stormy and tempestuous times. Paul that was once a great persecutor, after conversion, turns a great preacher and professor; Grace where it comes, makes a great change, and the Cross of Christ is the best Pulpit; to read a Lecture of God's grace to souls out off: But the High Priests and officers (always the severest enemies of Christ and Religion) if they prove not of, and with the people, who commonly follow their heads that go before them) if the Apostles cannot now keep their mouths shut, they'll endeavour to keep their persons close; wicked men who cannot hinder the burning of holiness inwardly in the hearts of God's people, will (if possible) hinder the shining of it openly in their lives. They laid hands on the Apostles, and put them in the common prison. V 18. The worst (if any thing could be worse than another) as for them; But while their mouths are showing forth God's praise, He opens a Door for their deliverance. But the Angel of the Lord by night, V 19 opened the prison doors and brought them forth. He makes his Angel's instruments of their deliverance; yea, and he doth not only deliver them out of prison, but immediately sets them to work again, which they did accept: and fell to work again immediately; V 21. and when they heard that they entered into the Temple again early and taught, they Echoed to the voice, they were journeymen at Gods call ready; no sooner could he command, but they were ready to obey in whatsoever he would have them to do. God ow'ns them and advises them, giveth new orders to them. Man's interdiction, cannot hinder God's commission, nor invalidate his commands. Moses goes in again and again to Pharaoh, notwithstanding of all his threaten against him; so do the Apostles here fall too and follow their work, what ever was threatened against them; but no sooner had they got into the Temple, but the high Priest and his train, was at their heels; called Council, and finding them not in the prison but in the Temple: they said unto them, did not we straight command you, that ye should not teach in his name; and behold ye have filled Jerusalem with your Doctrine, and intent to bring this Man's blood upon us. A guilty conscience was within, and they could not endure the Doctrine of the Gospel. Peter there turns prolocutor, and he makes a noble and brave answer unto them: saying, we ought to obey God raither then Man. The commands of no inferior power, can supersede the commands of a superior power; and now orders were issued out against the Apostles, to forbid their preaching; yet, having an injunction upon them from Christ they go on; yea, Peter goes on and preaches a Sermon before his enemies, and did not only preach what might serve the turn, (was not mealy mouthed) but preached that, which touched them to the quick, V 29, 30. and 31. tells them that that Jesus that was now exalted, whom they now preached, that very Jesus they had crucified: so he goes on to the 31 verse. The God of our Fathers raised one Jesus whom ye slew, and hanged on a Tree. And now they begin to think, not of in prisoning, but of massacring them; as if the land were not able to bear their persons, and what they had said was the highest piece of wickedness in the world. They go about to kill their bodies, that would (if possible) save their souls. And being cut to the heart: they now take council together to slay them; but one of the council, being more wise than the rest, gives more sober advice, which upon mature deliberation (though not out of conscience but fear) they took; But yet they would give them some taste of their kindness. They called the Apostles and beat them, V 40. and then let them go. And do but see the effects in the 41. and 42. verse. And they departed from the presence of the Council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy, to suffer shame for his Name. And daily in the Temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach, and to preach Jesus Christ. 1. The words that I have read contain. 1. an account of God's dignation towards his people, and their disposition towards him. The saints condition (to suffer) the name, or title of their sufferings, (shame.) 2. Secondly here is their disposition of spirit, not with sorrow, and hanging down their heads like a bulrush, no they lift up their heads, and exalt their horn in him. 2 Sam. 12.20. It was a manlike act in David when the child was dead: while it was alive, he fasted and wept: But when it was dead he arose from the earth, washed and anointed himself, and changed his apparel and came into the house of the Lord, and worshipped; so it was with the Apostles, notwithstanding all their evil usages; yet, they rejoiced that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name. Six propositions contain the sum of this Text. 6 Propositions. Prop. 1 First, that the condition of God's people, in this world, is a suffering condition. (To suffer.) Prop. 2 Secondly, that shame is one great piece of, and ingredient in, their sufferings. (To suffer shame.) Prop. 3 Thirdly, that the profession of Christ's name, is the great ground of the saints sufferings. To suffer shame for his name. Prop. 4 Fourthly, it is a great dignation of God to call out his people to suffer for his name (worthy to suffer shame for his name.) Prop. 5 Fifthly, that an opportunity to suffer shame, for the name of Christ: aught to be esteemed, and entertained, not only willingly, but joy-fully (rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name.) Prop. 6 Sixthly, the consideration of Christ's name being in our sufferings, is sufficient to quick en us up to joyfulness in them. And they departed etc. Doct. 1 First, the saints condition in the world is a suffering condition; the sufferings of the saints and people of God arise from the Devil, and from the wicked world. The dragon was wroth with the woman, Rev. 12. v. last. and went to make war with the remnant of her seed. The dragon is the Devil, the woman the church. By his instruments he makes war with her, the seed of the serpent, makes war with the seed of the woman, because they keep the commandments of God, and have the Testimony of Jesus Christ: It was a right speech of Austin, when those ten persecuting emperors were dead, and those ten persecutions over, and the people began to comfort themselves, that persecution would now cease, O but saith he, the Devil is not dead, and so long as he hath instruments to stir up, persecution will be raised. So long as the wicked lust to envy, the people of God must expect to suffer. 1 1. Reason of our suffering. They that cannot sin, must expect to suffer, because we have sinned, we suffer justly from God, because we will not sin, we suffer unjustly from men. Never a soul that ever set its face towards heaven, but the world turned their backs upon it: The Church of Christ, is as the Lylie among thorns, such as are interested in the Love of God, must expect to feel the wrath and anger of men; John. 16.33. in the world (it was Christ's own prediction) ye shall have tribulation; in the upper Region above is peace, but in this under the moon is nothing but trouble. Daniel, Dan. 6.16. a man greatly beloved of God, but as greatly persecuted by men. The Apostle Paul, a person eminent in grace and in favour with God, yet notwithstanding, as the raither extremely persecuted; he was in bonds for the word sake. 2 Tim. 2.9. Wherein I suffer trouble as an evil doer, even unto bonds. They that receive much mercy from God, 2 Tim. 2.9. and perform much duty to God; must expect to meet with little mercy from the world. They shall put you out of the Synagogue, yea, out of the world too, kill you and yet think they do God good service; this ariseth from the words wickedness, they wound Christ through the Saints sides; ungodly men conceive and contrive enmity against the people of God, and when it is conceive, it bringeth forth reproach, and persecution of them. Lord, Isa. 26.11. when thy hand is lifted up, they will not see: but they shall see, and be ashamed for their envy at the people, yea, the fire of thine enemies shall devour them. The whole world lieth in wickedness, that is, the two seeds are put in enmity, the seed of the serpent against the seed of the woman. Secondly, from Gods will and pleasure, 2 2. Rea. of suffering. God hath willed sufferings to his people, as his Livery, it's a Legacy to his people, to you it is given on the behalf of Christ: not only to believe, but also to suffer: not only to believe, but to blood also: They that are called to grace, are called to sufferings. The time of grace at first is atyme of love, the continuance of it, a time of affliction. For whom he did foreknow, Rom. 8.29. he also did predestinate to be conformed to the Image of his son; that is his suffering Image, in order to our conformity to his glorious Image. God had one Son without sin, but he hath none without a scourge. It is the will of God we should belike Christ; not only in the end, and form, but in the means. Sin resembles a man to the Devil, but sufferings resembles a man to Christ. From hence. Considerations. 1 First, consider, ye had need look you be right in the way of your profession, lest while ye suffer for God, ye also suffer from God. It will be a sad thing to be cast out of earth for making a profession; and to be cast out of heaven for making no more than a profession: to suffer for Christ here on earth, and to suffer from Christ hereafter in Hell to eternity. Look that ye be right in your profession, and ye will find comfort in your affliction. Consid. 2 Secondly, if the saints must suffer from the world, then let them not suffer from one another; if the beasts of the forest, Psal. 22.12. the bulls of Bashan push at them, let not the Lambs push one at another. Do they suffer from the world? That is no great matter, but to suffer from familiar friends, is too much. If it had been mine enemy (saith David) I could have born it: Psal. 55.12, 13. and 41.9. v. but it was thou my familiar friend, who took sweet council together, etc. It is said in a prophecy of Christ. Zech. 13.6. v. He was wounded in the house of his friends; that augmented the grief. Consid. 3 Thirdly, let every man than enter the lists of profession, but with an expectation of sufferings and afflictions. Object. The bullet may miss you, it's an ill Battle were none 'scapes. Ans. But it may hit you as well, it's strange; if a man will live godly in Christ Jesus, if he don't suffer persecution, either by the tongues or by the hands of wicked men. It was an excellent speech of the Lord Brook, that he that undertakes in the way of Christianity, it is a vain thing for him to think of saving any thing but his soul; ye may be called out to resist unto Blood striveing against sin, and as God's mercy towards the end of the Church's troubles, will be sweetest: so the Devil's rage will be greatest: and though ye have had halcyon days of peace, and have but the prick of a pin instead of the point of a sword, ye may yet, meet with the tail of the storm, the worst may be behind. Second proposition is this. That reproach and shame, is part of God's people's sufferings here in the world. Doct. 2 It is their portion, a peculiarity of the saints, to suffer shame for Christ's sake. They that are highly esteemed with God, are commonly cast out with men. They lie here oft-times among the pots, whom God intends for the fairest Cupboard of heavenly glory in the world to come. They manifested open indignity to the Apostles, two several ways; by words and by blows reproach before Magistrates, is a shame in the world's Calendar. Those whom God do honour; one way or another the wicked will dishonour: The wickeds spite is against god, but, Panther-like, if they can't reach the person, they'll tear the picture; though the consciences of God's people compurgats them, yet the world makes no conscience of condemning. Psal. 44.13. Thou makest us a reproach to our neighbours, a scorn and derision to them that are round about us. A reproach to men on every side hedged in, and compassed about with reproaches, scandals, and slanders, Psal. 79.4. so Psal. 79. v. 4. we are become a reproach to our neighbours, ascorn and a derision to them that are round about us. You see the church of God, wherever, at one time or other, were under reproaches. Isaac the Son of the promise, was scoffed at, by Ishmael, Gal. 4.29. this is called persecution. But as then he that was born after the flesh, persecuted him that was born after the spirit; so it is now. Thus it was with holy Job when he was made an out cast by his friends; Job. 16.8, 9 that made of him no more than a Hypocrite: He teareth me in his wrath, who hateth me: he gnasheth upon me with his teeth; mine enemy sharpeneth his eyes upon me. They gaped upon me with their mouth, they have smitten me upon the cheek reproachfully, they have gathered themselves together againse me. And will ye step a little farther and see David. In my adversity they rejoiced &c. this was the measure this holy man of God met with in his time; and the Prophet Isa: saith, Isa. 8.18. that the professers of his time were signs and wonders in Israel● Zion is an out cast, whom no man seeks after an out cast that no man seeks after. Jer. 30.17. Lam. 1.7, 21. So Jerusalem what she came to be in her distresses. They have heard that I sight, there is none to comfort me: all mine enemies have heard of my trouble, they are glad that thou hast done it: And this Is common with all the saints, for such as are guilty of oppression, Lam. 2: 15, 16. are guilty likewise of Columnieses so chap. 2. is this the city of solemnities? All that pass by clap their hands at thee; they hiss and wag their head at the daughter of Jerusalem, saying, is this the city that men call, the perfection of beauty, the joy of the whole earth? All thine enemies have opened their mouth against thee: they hiss and gnash the teeth; they say, we have swallowed her up; certainly this is the day that we looked for; we have found, we have seen it: Thus they please themselves, with scoffing at the poor Church and people of God. Psal. 69.20. Lam. 3.30. Reproaches have broken my heart; saith the Psalmist in the person of Christ: so Lam: The church there saith, she gave her cheeks to him that smote her, she was filled full i'th' reproaches. Thus both the worship and worshippers of God, have been made a reproach in the world. The word of the Lord in the prophecy of Jer. 6.10. was a reproach unto that wicked generation; Jer. 6.10. to whom shall I speak, and give warning, that they may hear; behold, the word of the Lord is unto them a reproach: they have no delight in it: Jer. 20. v. 18. and so chap. 20.18. he speaks again of the reproaches he met withal, there he saith, he came forth out of the womb to see labour and sorrow, that his days should be consumed with shame: The spirit of God tells the Prophet Ezekiel, Ezek. 33.30. concerning the children of the people, not enemies only, but the children of the people are taking against thee, by the wall's, and in the doors of the houses, they snarld at the word of the Lord. Thus all the Prophets under the old, and Christ and his Apostles under the New Testament, have been accounted vilely off. Paul called a seditious fellow, Christ called the Carpenter's Son, no better title could they afford him: And they thought they had hit the bird on the eye, when they said have any of the Rulers believed on him! Isa. 66. v. 5. Esa. 66.5. Your brethren that hated you, that cast you out for my name sake said, let the Lord be glorified. Therefore the Apotle exhorts. Peter. 2.12. Having your conversation honest among the gentiles, that whereas they speak against you as evil doers, they may by your good works, 1 Pet. 2.12. which thy shall behold, glorify God in the day of your visitation. The saints had need do well, while they hear it. The work of God, as well as the servants of God, hath met with reproaches. Neh. 2.19. Nehem. 2.19. But when Sanballat the Honorite, and Tobiah the servant the Ammonite, and Geshem the Arabian heard it, they laughed us to scorn, and despised us, and said, what is this thing that ye do? will ye rebel against the King? there was a charge for them. So chap. 4.2, 8. Neh 4.2, 8. And he spoke before his brethren, and the Army of Samaria, and said, what do these feeble Jews? will they fortify themselves? will they sacrifice? will they make an end in a day? will they revive the stones out of the heaps of the rubbish, which are burnt? And v. 8. v. 8. And conspired all of them together, to come and to fight against Jerusalem, and to hinder it. In so much, as they even broke the good man's heart, and made him cry out v. 4. Hear, O our God, for we are despised: and turn their reproach upon their own head, and give them for a prey in the land of Captivity. The Apostles, when they were preaching the Gospel; with greatest earnestness and vehemency, nay, when as the holy Ghost, descended in such an extraordinary manner upon them, they said, these men are filled with new wine, therefore the Apostle saith, they were defamed, and blasphemed, 1 Cor. 4.13. we are made as the filth of the world, and are the offscouring of all things. This is the Sect, every where spoken against. Heb. 10.33. Acts 28.22. You may read, concerning those admirable worthies, what a heap of reproaches were thrown upon them. Partly whilst ye were made a gazing stock, both by reproaches and afflictions. And Heb. 11.36. Heb. 11.36. And others had trial of cruel mockings, and scourge, yea, moreover, of bonds and imprisonments. And indeed reproaches are cruel, the wounds of the tongue, go deeper, than those of the hand; and in the primitive times, how many calumnies were the precious servants of the most high God, loaden with; when they risen early in the morning to sing their morning Hymn, they charged them with uncleanness, and incest: thus they called Athenasius the eldest Son of the Devil, And Luther (the Papists say) was the cause of all the troubles, that befell Germany. With vilifying names and expressions, have Gods eminent and worthy Champions suffered. So for usage too, what whip, scourge, imprisonning? thus it was with Christ; and thus it was with all his followers. The design of the adversary, hath been, partly the terror, and partly, the shame of Christians. They were tortured, Heb. 11.35. not accepting deliverance, that they might obtain a better resurrection. This was the portion (my beloved) of the eminent Saints, and people of God of old; and the reason of this is plain. Reason 1 First, because the excellency of the people of God, is an hidden excellency, it is no wonder, that the world reproach that they do not understand. Many men indeed out of malice will reproach that they do understand, but it's no wonder the world reproach that they do not understand; our life is hid, with Christ in God: Religion is a melancholy thing, says the men of the world, and therefore: it's no wonder they despise it: as it was said of Christ: Jes. 53.3. He was despised and rejected of men, a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: And so it is with all the people of God; men look upon their outsides, and see that vild, but they see not their insides. Psal. 45.13. The King's Daughter is all glorious within. Reason 2 Secondly, sometimes from their envy at the Saint's excellency, there is a Contrastation, and opposition, between the Children of God, and the men of the world, in point of excellency. Men will endeavour to darken and obscure the glory of God's people, and by obscuring their graces, they think their own lesser lights will appear the more glorious; The Saints stand in their light: therefore they cannot endure them. They are like a house, standing in the light of another, and they will endeavour, to take it down, and this is a cunning way, to persecute the people of God: and hereby; they exceedingly hinder many souls from embracing Religion; and damp the spirits of such as would profess it. I have read of one, that coming to be baptised, and seeing none, but a company of poor Christians together, asked what they were, to whom the Emperor answered, they were the servants of God, at which he went away, saying, if God kept his servants so poor, he would not be one of them. This is the trick of Apostates, to reproach zealous Professors, to take of the shame of their Apostasy, as Julian did. Jer. 6.28. They are all grievious revolters, that walk with slanders, they are Brass and Iron, they are all corrupters. Well, hence God's people may learn. Lesson. 1 First, what to expect in the world, shame and reproach, and they shall do well, to examine themselves, whether they can own a persecuted Christ: canst thou own a crucified, a reproached Christ, a condemned Christ? canst thou own the way of holiness when jeered at? truly it is a great temptation; when Religion is become a byword, men are afraid, of public ignominies. Many can't endure the term of precisian, puritan, phannatik, for the enemy to shake his hand, as he passes by, saying, there is a puritan; it is a hard thing to some men. 2 Sam. 6.14 & 22. Can you say as David, when he danced before the Lord, when scoffed at by Michal. If this be to be vile, I will yet be more vile than thus, Consider Christ, Christians, that endured the Crosz, despised the shame, and is now set down, at the right hand of the Majesty on high, far above all principalities and powers, you must deny yourselves, your own lusts, pleasures, honours; if ye will be Christ's Disciples you must be willing to be accounted base, vile by every evil foot of pride, even by them, that in the flourish of Religion, ye would not set with the dogs of your flock, as Job speaks. Lesle. 2 Secondly, let this teach you, 2. Tim. 1.8. to animate yourselves against reproaches; be not thou ashamed of the afflictions of the Gospel. Nothing carries with it a true ground of shame, but sin; be not ye ashamed of your afflictions. Moses, chose the reproaches of Christ, before the pleasures, and treasures of Egypt: we must go forth to Christ, without the Camp, to mount Calvary, as well as mount Olivet; bearing his reproach. And that you may be armed against reproaches. Consid. 1 First; Remember, you are blessed and honoured of Christ, while reproached, jeered and mocked by the world: and no matter though the dog's bark, so the Master gives good entertainment: Blessed are ye when men shall revile you, and speak all manner of evil of you, falsely, for my sake; yea, blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness sake, for theirs is the Kingdom of God. It is a cursed thing to reproach another, but a blessed thing, to be reproached by another. Consid. 2 Secondly, Christ's name is a greater glory, than all your reproaches, can be dishonourable, to you that believe Christ is an honour; you carry the Cross of Christ, as a Banner displayed, and there is greater honour in that, than the world can reflect dishonour upon your for so doing. Consid. 3 Thirdly, 1 Pet. 4.14. consider, the spirit of glory rests upon you, not the spirit of grace only, but of glory also, not for a little time, but to rest, yea, and that for ever. Consid. 4 Fourthly, consider, you have assurance of a name in heaven, and therefore may willingly go through dishonour on earth. Your reproaches, are Christ's reproaches. Remember your names are written in heaven; and Christ's rags, are better than the world's Robes, and seeing you have a name in the court, what matter though you have none in the country. Consid. 5 Fifthly, 1 Pet. 1.7. your Trials will be found for praise, and honour, and glory, at the appearance of Jesus Christ: The wicked shall leave their names for a curse unto my chosen: for the Lord God shall slay thee, and call his servants by another name. Isa. 65.15. Thou shalt also be a crown of glory in the hand of the Lord, and a royal Diadem, in the hand of the God. Isa. 62.3. The Lord hath promised to wipe away the rebuke of his people, and there shall be never a blot, to blurr their faces. The day is shortly coming, in which wicked men shall answer, for all their hard usages of, and speeches to the people of God. Dan. 12. ●. 3. Math. 2.34. The wicked that are in the highest state, in the world, shall rise at the last day to everlasting shame, and you to everlasting honour. Ye shall shine as the Sun, in the Kingdom of your father. The shouldier is not ashamed of his marks, and scars he receives in the wars, but looks upon them, as so many badges of honour: so the reproaches you meet with, are but as so many badges of honour, all the scars ye meet with in the way of holiness, are as so many marks of honour put upon you, and if you confess Christ before men, he will confess you, before his father, and before the holy Angels. And O Christians! here is a good target against reproaches, do but maintain your innocency, and then you can never be made miserable, by the Judgements of others. Third proposition is this. That the name of Christ, is the cause, and great occasion, of all the sufferings that befall the Children of God. Doct. 3 The name of Christ: they rejoiced that they were counted worthy, to suffer shame for his name. You shall (saith our Saviour) be hated for my name sake. Math. 24.9. All these things will they do unto you for my name's sake. John 15.21. There's the ground of wicked men's malice against the saints; the profession of Christ is the butt of persecution: for that is thee employed, some suffer the loss of Father and Mother, Brethren and Sisters, houses and lands, for my name's sake, (saith Christ.) It's not for their sin, that God's people suffer from the world, but for their grace: could they conform to the world, could they drink and be drunk, swear and blaspheme, live riotously and loosely, the world would hug them in their Arms, and embrace them with their dearest affection. They think it a strange thing, 1 Pet. 4.3. you run not with them to the same excess of riot: This expression (for his name sake) may have a double reference. Refer. 1 First; As it is the reason of the tolerableness of the Saints sufferings, Christ's name being in their sufferings, that bears them up under them; their love to Christ's name, puts them upon accepting of sufferings so joyfully. 2 Cor. 12.10. Therefore I take pleasure in reproaches, in necessities, in infirmities, in distresses for Christ's That is that which engages a Christian in, and encourages him under sufferings; and as sufferings for righteousness distinguish a Saint from the wicked, so will respect to Christ's Name distiguish a Saint from a Hypocrite; for although I should give all my goods to the poor (a universal alms) and my body to be burned, yet if I had not charity, all were nothing; therefore for thy sake (saith the Church) we are killed all the day long, we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. But, Refer. 2 Secondly, I will understand it as the reason of the world's infliction of reproaches, and persecutions, upon the people of God: what ever the world pretend, it is for Christ's sake; for some thing of Christ with in them, that they hold forth, that they hate them for. Therefore the afflictions that befall them, are called the afflictions of the Gospel: Tim. 2.1. It is a great ground of comfort to the saints, that it is for Christ's, and his Gospel's sake, that they suffer. Do not they blaspheme, James 2.7. that worthy name, by the which ye are called? It was the name of Christ, that worthy name, they dealt with them for. It was upon that account, they measured out this measure unto them. The world can't come up to the pitch of holiness the Saints do, and they going beyond the common pace of Civility, Morality, and Hypocrisy, the Dog's bark at them. Noah condemned the old world, by his righteousness: the world praise and canonize the dead saints, but can't endure to see them that are living, but hunt after their precious lives. If one child in the Family have the Father's indulgence, all the rest will hate him. So joseph's brethren hated him. Gen 49.27. He that is the object of God's love, (commonly) is the but of the world's envy, therefore the wicked take all the occasions they can, against the saints, and watch for their haltings; they daily blaspheme the name of God, because of his people's failings. Isa. 52. v. 5, 6. And the most of them are like Tyggers, that cannot endure a fragrant scent, but will fall upon them that carry it, and kill them. And if it be so. Use 1 First, then learn we a good warrant, and just ground, of our sufferings; Christ's name. Many are not satisfied to suffer, because they think their sufferings are not for Christ's sake: be sure your sufferings by for Christ's sake, else you cannot suffer confortably. Use 2 Secondly, hence learn, the bitter hatred the world have, against Christ and his people: Religion hath always brought forth the greatest quarrels, though it lest deserves it: I am not to send peace, but a sword; the strictness of the" Gospel causes persecution, Satan hath so blinded the minds of men, and hardened their hearts, that this is mostly the condition of the Saints here in the world. Use 3 Thirdly, this condemns the pretences of the wicked, that say, they persecute the Saints, because they are seditious, and rebellious persons, whereas it is, because they won't be wicked, but religious: not because they are traitorous to men, but because they will not be traitorous to heaven. Use 4 Fourthly, here is great encouragement to Christians under sufferings, Christ's name is in their sufferings, if it were upon the account of your own name, that you suffer, you should do well to lay them down in a moment: but it is for thy sake; Rom. 8.36. 1 Cor. 4.10. here is comfort, when the soul can say, Lord it is for thy sake. The Apostle triumphs in this. That they were fools for Christ's sake. O! blessed be God, that ever we had a name to offer up for Christ, Bernard saying. and sacrifice for Christ: As Bernard was wont to say, Lord make me a shield, to fence of the injuries, that fall upon thy name. Paul complained of his persecuting the Saints, it is a killing the Prince of life, the Lord of glory; it is a great piece of Injustice. It is not our preaching, but your not receiving the Gospel saith Luther, that is the worst ingredient in suffering. The fourth Proposition is this: It is a great Dignation of God towards his people, to call them out, and count them worthy to suffer for Christ's sake. Doct. 4 (They rejoiced that they were counted worthy) such honour have not all men, no, nor all the Saints: doing work is honourable, but suffering work is more honourable. The Apostle counts this a great gift, Gal. 6.14. next to believing; to declare Christ's sacrifice to others in the world. It is an honour to do much, but greater honour to suffer much for Christ. God forbidden I should glory in any thing, save in the Cross of Christ. The Apostle well understood what he did, and said too. I glory (saith he) in nothing but the Cross of Christ. To suffer for Christ, is an honour beyond that granted to the Angels, for they have no body, Mr. Philpot would say of sufferings, no such preferment on Earth, as for God's Childen to be called out to suffer. I have read of a Knight in Venice, that being carried to suffer with his other brethren, they being bound, and he being a noble person, was carried, without chains and fetters, why saith he, may not I be bound likewise, and so commence, Knight of the honourable order of the Garter? Reasons. 4 now sufferings for Christ, they are honourable. Reas. 1 First, because they are a part of our conformity to Christ, not to fill up the personal sufferings of Christ; that were blasphemy to affirm, nor yet his sufferings in order to the satisfaction of divine justice, but the mystical sufferings of Christ for edification; this is a drinking of Christ's cup, and a fullfilling after him: it is a greater honour to be like a crucified, then 'tis to be like a glorified Christ; because most of our happiness consists in our conformity to Christ: which is in suffering for him, and in order to being glorified with him. Refer. 2 Secondly, it is a bearing wittness to Christ, and Gods taking your Testimony, and this is a great honour. Ye are my witnesses, Isa. 43.12. saith the Lord, that I am God: hereby the Saints obtain victory over their accusers, by the blood of the Lamb, Rev. 12.11. and the word of their Testimony. Paul was God's wittness, and God made him a chosen vessel to bear his name. Reas. 3 Thirdly, because it admits a man into special fellowship with Christ. Paul pressed after the fellowship with Christ's sufferings. Phil. 3.12. By the spirit of life and holiness, implanted in beleivers, they have a fellowship with Christ, and still (a nearer) by sufferings, which the Apostle presseth after, those afflictions, we bear for Christ, and the Gospel's sake, make us expressly partakers of Christ. For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold fast the beginning of our confidence firm to the end. Heb 3.14. Therefore John tells us in Rev. 1.9. that he was a brother and companion in tribulation, and in the Kingdom and patience of Christ: not in the merits, Rev. 1. v. 9 nor effects thereof as personal, but as it was mystical, in the efficacy thereof: we bear about in our bodies the marks of the Lord Jesus, 2 Cor. 4.10. Gal. 6.5. that the life also of Christ may be made manifest in our mortal bodies. These are scripture expressions for every man shall bear his own burden; to sin is a great dishonour, but to suffer is not so. The Saints are more glorious in being Martyrs, then in being victors. Reas. 4 Fourthly, because this gives us assurance of being glorified with Christ hereafter. These are they which come out of great tribulation; there is an Asterisme set upon them; such as continue with Christ in his temptations, shall not only have a seat, but a Throne in Heaven. 1 Thef. 3.3. That no man should be moved by these afflictions; for you yourselves know, that we are apppointed thereunto. And through God's free grace accepting us in and through Jesus Christ; and we suffering, the head and body being united, we are counted worthy of the Kingdom of God. Then Use 1 First, from hence let us learn, the esteem we should have of sufferings, not only as they are our duty, but privilege and honour, he is honourable that gives them to us: now seeing we suffer upon Christ's account, and for his name, that name reflects a great honour upon us; it is a great reproach for a Christian to suffer upon his own account: for Christ to suffer by us, is a great dishonour, but to suffer in us is honourable. They rejoiced that they were counted worthy, to be unworthy; and graced to be disgraced. Hebr. 11.38. They that suffer for Christ are such of whom the world is not worthy. God esteems heaven a fit place for them. Consider what an honourable thing it is to suffer, 'tis more honourable to give then receive. In all the benedictions of grace conferred upon us, we receive from God; in our sufferings we give to God. In our services we do that which God of us hath commanded; in our sufferings we give glory to the cause of God to us commended. Secondly, bless God for any opportunity he hath given us to suffer. Giving thanks to the Father who hath made us meet, to be partakers of the inheritance of the Saints in light: Col. 1.12. it seems a hard lesson, but it is to be learned, giving thanks to the Father, who by afflictions, have made you meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the Saints in light: for they were made fit, as by grace, so by afflictions. It is a great question, whether we are most to bless God for making Heaven fit for us, or us fit for Heaven by affliction. The fifth Proposition is this: That an opportunity to suffer for Christ's name, is to be esteemed a great privilege and mercy; it is to be judged the highest Felicity. Doct. 5 They rejoiced, (the Text saith) that they were counted worthy to suffer shame, for his name. This will be evidenced. First, fromthe express command of God to his people, to suffer with joyfulness; it is the general Character given of the people of God, Phil. 3.3. they are such as rejoice in Christ Jesus. We are of the Circumsion, that worship God in the spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus. Rom. 5.1, 2, 3. And we rejoice in Christ Jesus, having received the atonement: And so it is the duty and hath been the practice of the Saints, to rejoice in him. Sufferings for Christ have been always matter of great joy. James 1.2. My brethren, count it all joy (saith the Apostle) when ye fall into divers temptations. Rejoice and be exceeding glad; for great is your reward in Heaven. Math. 5.12. Rejoice ye in that day, when men hath you, and separate you from their company, rejoice ye in that day, and leap for joy: Luke 6.22. & 23. for great is your reward in Heaven: for so persecuted they the Prophets. It is the will of God, his people should rejoice always; rejoice ever more. 1 Thess. 5.16. Especially upon the matters of affliction; that's the will of God towards his people. The Cross should not only be taken up with patience, Coll. 1.11. but born with joyfulness. Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience, and long suffering with joyfulness: joyfulness is a help to patience and long suffering under the Cross. For example, see how the Apostle rejoiceth under all his afflictions. I rejoice that I help to fill up that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh, Col. 1.24. for his body's sake which is the Church. But rejoice in as much as you are partakers of Christ's sufferings; 1 Pet. 4.13. that when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad with exceeding joy. In whom believing (though under manifold temptations) we rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory. 1 Pet. 1.8. In a time of great affliction it was the great commendation of the Thessalonians, 1 Thess. 1, 6. that they received the Gospel with great joy. The Church rejoiced when the hand of God's providence was out against her. Hab. 3.17, 18. Although the figtree should not blossom, neither should fruit be in the Vines: Hab. 3.17, 18. the labour of the Olive should fail, and the fields shall yield no meat: yet will I rejoice in the Lord, I will joy in the God of my salvation. And so do the people of God, rejoice likewise under the stroke of man's violence; this hath been their practice, nay, not only to joy, but to glory in afflictions. We glory in tribulation also. Rom. 5.3. 2 Cor. 2.14. Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place. A Saint is bound to rejoice in the Lord in good days, and in evil days; but especially in times of great opposition. Neh. 8.10. 2 Cor. 6.10. The joy of the Lord is your strength. As sorrowful, yet always rejoicing. They took joyfully the spoiling of their goods Hebr. 10.34. not only patiently, but joyfully. Acts 16.25. Phil. 1.20. Paul and Silas did not repine, but sung in the prison. Paul rejoiced that Christ should be magnified in him whether by life or death. The Martyrs endured exquisite torments with admirable patience: Divine joy abated outward anguish; their souls were wrapped up in joy, as if they were in a separated state. Paul counted it his honour to suffer reproach and afflictions. 1 Tim. 4.10. For this cause we both labour, and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living God. The Apostles were not found (in the Text) blaspheming, nor repining, nor only submitting but blessing God, yea, joying in God: They were not (men) altogether unsensible of injuries, yet, they that through infirmities foresooke their Master, in the strength of his grace and spirit rejoiced to suffer for him: remembering Christ told them, they were blessed that suffer. Now there are sufficient grounds of the Saints thus rejoicing in all their sufferings. First, in respect of the manifold consolation whereby they are enabled to suffer: for as our afflictions abound, so our consolations abound much more by Christ Jesus. 2 Cor. 1.5. Not only weight for weight; but a preponderating weight of consolation they enjoy: while the people of God drink deep draughts of the water of affliction, they also draw water out of the wells of Consolation. God's consolations ought not to be small to his people. 2 Cor. 7.4, 6. 2 Cor. 7.4. compared with the v. 6. Great is my boldness of speech towards you, great is my glorying of you, I am filled with comfort, I am exceeding joyful in all our tribulation, nevertheless, God that comforteth those that are cast down, comforted us by the coming of Titus; though troubled on every side: whence arose this joy? why, God that comforteth those that are cast down, comforted us also. Though a storm of Hail fell upon their heads, yet the sun shine of his favour shone upon their hearts. Psal 94.19. In the midst of my sad thoughts within me, thy comforts delight my soul. Although we meet with storms without, no matter, so we have but peace within. In the world ye shall have tribulation (always tribulation) but in me ye shall have peace, John. 16.33. therefore be of good comfort. Secondly, sufferings for Christ's name administers cause of rejoicing, because of the sufficiency of grace administered under them. My grace is sufficient for thee, was Christ's answer to Paul. I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not, says he to Peter. Under the shadow of thy wings will I rejoice, saith the Psalmist. Under the shadow of Divine protection and refreshment. Thirdly, there's ground of rejoicing in sufferings for Christ's name, in respect of the presence of God, and Christ under afflictions communicated and enjoyed. Fear not (saith God) I am with thee, when thou passest through the waters I will be with thee: Isa. 43.2. and through the rivers they shall not overflow thee: when thou passest through the fire thou shalt not be burnt, neither shall the flame, kindle upon thee. God was with the three Children, when in the fiery-Furnace; with Daniel in the Lion's Den; with Joseph in the prison; Jeremiah in the Dungeon. The Lord's presence is with his, to the end of the wood. The presence of God supports under all burdens, and sweetens the bitterest cups of affliction; you hast made me more glad, with the light of thy countenance; then they with the increase of their Corn, Wine, and Oil: there's a spring in divine joy; if God's people want the Stars, they shall have the light of the Sun: and the enjoyment of God, can make up for the want of the creature. Fourthly, another ground of joy, is in respect of the assurance of deliverance from the greatest affliction they are under. Who hath delivered us from so great a death, 2 Cor. 1.10. and doth deliver: in whom we trust, that he will yet deliver us: Christ's deliverance, is an assurance to God's people, of deliverance out of their tribulations: for he that raised up our Lord Jesus from the dead; 1 Cor. 6.14. by his own power, will also raise up us. And God hath raised up the Lord ' Christ: and will also raise up us by his own power. And therefore ye may find that God encouraged his people under all their persecutions; that when their brethren cast them out for his name sake, he would take them up, and make their enemies ashamed, when his hand should be known to his servants. Thirdly, the exceeding great reward of glory propounded may administer ground of joy, and rejoicing under all sufferings and afflictions. Christ for the joy, that was set before him, endured the Cross, and despised the shame, and is now set down at the right hand of the Majesty on high. Heb. 12.2. Heb. 11.27. Moses having a view of God, and of glory by the spectacles of faith, is said to endure as seeing him that is invisible: for this cause we faint not, but suffer reproach, because we judge that these light afflictions, which are but for a moment, work for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory. O Soul! who ever thou art, that sufferest for Christ's name though hell be behind thee, Heaven is still before Hell; this was that, Heb. 10.34. those primitive Christians comforted themselves with. Knowing with in themselves (they had experience in their own hearts, assurance in their bosoms) that in Heaven they had a better and more enduring substance. 40 Mart. This comforted those forty Martyrs, when (before they were to suffer) they were cast in to water in cold weather; now (say they) we shake for cold, but by and by we shall be in Abraham's bosom: men may kill the Saints, but it is impossible that they should ever hurt them: so that an opportunity to suffer for Christ is to be esteemed as a meecy. By way of inference from hence. Use 1 First, take notice of the strength and power of divine grace, that is able to make a man suffer contentedly and joyfully; it will make a Christian go through good report and evil report. Use 2 Secondly, from hence I may observe (likewise) the great abatement, degeneracy, and timerousness of spirit, that is in Professors of Religion in these latter days; the Saints in former times accounted it an honour to suffer Christ; we account it a burden, we are backward; we are ready to cry out undone, if it comes to a little of our Estate, liberty or name: if ever God call us out to suffering, surely he will grant us more grace, else were shall shamefully dishonour him. O thou spirit of Christianity! where art thou become? O thou holy joy (in sufferings!) where art thou? It is for a lamentation, and shall be for a lamentation to think On these things. Use 3 Thirdly, hence observe, the vast difference there is between Saints and sinners; the Saints can rejoiced in sufferings, so can't the wicked. The heart knweth its own bitterness, and a stranger doth not intermeddle with his joy. This is a joy no sgranger intermedles with: Prov. 14.10. the world wonders how the Saints go so courageously through sufferings. But the Martyr's answer may serve to answer this; ye see the fuel that burns me, but did ye feel the joy that I feel, ye would not wonder. The ways, of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life, through Jesus Christ our Lord: eternal life is sweet, the assured expectation whereof makes men thus to suffer. There is a great deal of difference between Saints and sinners upon this account. Secondly, from hence I might speak matter of just reproof to the Saints and people of God, that are so far from this frame and temper, to rejoice in suffering for Christ's name. You ought to be joyful in tribulation; but I fear many of you are not patiented under the afflictions of the Gospel. Were they joyful under the burning coals of Juniper, and shall not we be patiented, (at least) under lesser sufferings? Dispondency is a sin as well as murmuring and repining. What an dishonour is it to God to murmur under affliction? First, what an dishonour is this to Jesus Christ, to be dedolent under sufferings? when services and sufferings come of heavyly, itmust needs be a dishonour to Christ: It is a dishonour to a Chaptaine, if his Soldiers march on heavyly. 2 Sam. 19: 2, 4. I may allude to that 2 Sam. 19: 2, 4. where the King wept for his son, and the victory that day was turned into mourning, and the King covered his face and cried with a loud voice, O my son Absalon, O Absolom, my son, NUm. 14.2. my son: what an ugly sight was that of the Isralites digging their graves. And all the Children of Israel murmured against Moses, and against Aaron: and against the whole congregation, and said unto them, would, God that we had died in the Land of Egypt, or would God we had died in this wilderness. It is a great shame for Christians, and it is a great dishonour to Christ, for Christians to be so dastardly spirited. Secondly, consider what an unworthy return is this to the Lord Jesus Christ, that suffered so much, and so willingly for us. I am straitened with in me till this baptism be accomplished (saith Chrit.) It was no trouble to Christ that he was to die, but raither that he died no sooner. And shall we thus return evil to him for his good to us? Shall we think much to bear the prick of a pin for him, that was pierced with a spear for us? Thirdly, what a discouragement does this offer to profession and Religion in the world; it lays a stumbling-block before many that would fall in with Religion, but that they think there is but little in it, else the Professors of it, would suffer more for it: If a standard-bearer in an Army his heart fail, it offers a great discouragement to the common Soldier: go on therefore courageously in the profession of holiness. The contrary God threatens to his Enemies, to Assiria the rod of his anger when he breaks them in piece. Isa. 10.18. And they shall be as when a standard-bearer fainteth. Isa. 10.18, 19 And then the rest of the trees of his forest shall be few, that a Child may write them. When the hearts of the principal of God flock fail, they offer discouragement to all the rest. Fourthly, it spoils the acceptance of all your other services; it spoils God's acceptance of all your duties and services: God will not accept a doer, if he be not (at least) willing, to be a sufferer, and that rejoyceingly; God can't endure a man suffering (so to speak) with a blurred face, hanging down his head like a bulrush. Christ's active obedience could not do alone in point of satisfaction, nor can ours in point of duty. Secondly, 2 2ly for reproof. this justly reproves those, that, instead of rejoicing to suffer for Christ, entertains them with regrate, that come to affliction as a bear to the stake, or a thief to the Gallows. Such as shrink, especially that dog it in Religion when they should appear courageously, such sufferings are very unacceptable unto God, when (we are compelled to that, in which we should be most free and voluntary. Isa. 58.5. Is it such a Fast that I have chosen? a day for a man to afflict his soul? is it to bow down his head like a bulrush, and to spread sackcloth and ashes under him? wilt thou call this a Fast, and an acceptable day unto the Lord? It is a sad sign of a perverse and hypocritical heart, not to suffer joyfully upon Christ's account. The Romans, if the beast that was to be made a sacrifice would not go willingly, they would never offer that beast up in sacrifice; so if we do not offer ourselves willingly, soul and body, which is but our reasonable sacrifice, we shall not be accounted holy, nor acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. It was the excellency of former times, 4 Cautions anent sufferings. that they were careful to suffer for Christ, that so Christ might not suffer by them. Always remember. First, that it is far better to suffer for Christ, then to suffer by Christ. Caut. 2 Secondly, remember how much Christ suffered for you. The just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God. I remember the Soldier told Augustus, 1 Pet. 3.10. if I had served you, as you serve me, at the battle of Actium, where had you been? so may Christ say to us, where had you been, if I had served you upon the Cross, as ye serve me? if I had deserted your cause, what had become of you? ye had been lost to eternity. Caut. 3 Thirdly, consider, we partake of Christ's sufferings proportionably, as he partakes of ours. If we suffer for him, his sufferings are made manifest in us. Caut. 4 Fourthly, he that by directly unlawful means will endeavour to avoid sufferings, commonly runs upon a double suffering; is exposed to sufferings both in body and soul, in time, and it may be to eternity. Thirdly, by way of exhortation, 3 3 For Exhortation. let me persuade all of you, to learn this Leslen (though hard, and will go much against the hair, of holy joyfulness in sufferings; it is good for you to be provided, and not to go naked into a storm and battle; hard times put me upon calling you to it. Since Christ hath suffered for us, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind: resolve to suffer with cheerfulness: it is your privilege as well as duty: why will ye neglect one thing that is matter of privilege unto you? Motives 8. Motives to press you hereunto. Mot. 1 First; It is an Evidence of Saint-ship, of truth of grace, and of strength of grace; and the want of it is an evidence of Hypocrisy. For where in will ye difference yourselves from sinners and ungodly? They are confounded under their temptations and sorrowful under their afflictions; and if you can't rejoice under afflictions, what singular thing do you. Mot. 2 Secondly, consider your afflictions and sufferings have no real evil in them, and all the happiness of the world is no more, than what your Fancies put upon them. They are but imaginary excellencies, it is only an imaginary happiness that is in the world, and all these things. Mot. 3 Thirdly, all your afflictions (though inflicted by men) are ordered by God, and his wise providence; they are appointed by your heavenly Father, and shall I not drink the Cup, that my Father hath given me to drink, saith Christ? Mot. 4 Fourthly, they are all consistant with God's fatherly love; yea, while he suffers wicked men to chastise and correct you, his fatherly love is towards you: God's people have had powerful experience, and familiar acquaintance of and with God upon this account: God as a Father chastiseth every Son whom he receiveth; nay, as the fire burns hottest, when the wether is coldest, so God's affections to his people is highest; when their afflictions are greatest. Mat. 5 Fiftly, consider all your trials tend to the advance of grace, and the purging out of your corruptions, for the refining of your grace. 2 Cor. 4.16. For this cause we faint not; (saith the Apostle) for though our outward man perish, our inward man is renewed day by day, as the Sea, what it looseth in one shire, it gets in another: grace grows by an Antiperistasis, affliction is sanctified and grace is exercised and proved thereby. We had fathers of our flesh, that corrected us; and we gave them reverence: shall we not much rather be in subjection unto the father of spirits, and live? Heb. 12.9. and 10. They corrected us for their pleasure, but he for our profit, that we might be partakers of his holiness. The trial of your faith is for honour, praise and glory: fiery trials make golden Christians, your suffering (like the sun) scorcheth the Hypocrite, but ripens the sincere Christian. The Northwind of affliction, blowing upon the garden of the saints graces, cause the spices thereof to flow forth. Mot. 6 Sixthly, Math. 5.11, 12 Blessedness is the entail; Math. 5.11, 12. blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you; rejoice and be exceeding glad, for great is your reward in heaven. Luke 6.22, 23. Blessed are ye when men shall hate you, and when they shall separate you from their company, and shall reproach you, and cast out your name as evil, for the son of man's sake. Rejoice ye in that day, Luke 6.23. and leap for joy: for behold your reward is great in heaven: for in the like manner did their fathers unto the Prophets. Happy are they that endure. Seventhly, James 5.11. Mot. 7. all your sufferings serve to work you up to a further likeness to Christ and the saints. So they dealt with them before you. Take, my brethren, the Prophets, James 5.10. who have spoken in the name of the Lord, for an example of suffering affliction, and of patience. Eightly, Heb. 11.35. they greaten and aggravate your glory and happiness in the next world. They would not accept of deliverance, that they might obtain a better resurrection. They had a good resurrection, though they had not suffered, but hereby they had a better one. O that all might prevail with you to this rejoicing! if ye may be counted worthy to suffer shame for Christ's name. Now your joy under sufferings must be. 1 1. What kind of joy ye must leave. First, spiritual, not carnal, in spiritual objects, in things spiritual; it must be a pure and refined joy. Jesus rejoiced in spirit. Luke 10.21. The joy of the Lord must be your strength: your joy must be pure and spiritual. Secondly, a serious, not a light frothy joy, Hebr. 12.5. we must glory, not sport it under afflictions and tribulations. We must not dispond, nor yet make light of afflictions; if we make light of afflictions, God will make them heavy, true joy should be a serious thing. Thirdly, it must be a practical joy, Luke 6.23. putting the soul on to duty, engageing the soul under all afflictions to manifest our joy by outward signs; a leaping of heart and body, it comes from, and is an allusion to the danceing of the Galyard, or leaping of young that are wanton, or (as some carry it) to the joy that a Bridegroom takes in his Bride, upon their marriage day. Fourthly, it must not be a passionate and transient, but a permanent and lasting joy; they rejoiced in Christ's light for a time, but when persecution came, they were offended. Moses was faithful over all his house as a servant; but Christ as a son, whose house we are, if we hold fast the beginning of our confidence, and the rejoicing of hope, firm to the end. Heb. 3.6. Strengthened with all might to endure with patience, and long suffering with joyfulness. Our joy must be such as the Apostles was here, they were constant; that accompanied their joy. A saint indeed may have some mixtures of sadness; but though heavyness endure for a night, joy comes in the morning. A beleivers joy is not like that of a hypocrite that lasts but for a moment: but constant: like the conflict of wind and fire, that increaseth it the more; so must afflictions. That Apostle that failed before in his speeches and doctrine, could now rejoice in his stripes; he that before trembled at the look of a silly damsel, now could look upon the face of a great and learned Council. But you will say, 10. Direct. and Helps. what shall we do, to attain such a blessed frame of spirit? I will propound you some directions to help you herein. Direct. 1 First, 1 Pet. 4.12. if ye would be joyful under your sufferings for Christ's sake, Enure yourselves to them; count not the fiery trial a strange thing we entertain strangers with dissatisfaction, but friends with joy and delight: receive not sufferings as strangers, but friends, and then ye will bid them welcome; we are like Ephraim unaccustomed to the yoke, and that makes us to entertain afflictions so unwillingly. A suit at first putting on, pinches but afterward becomes easy; a Bird at first putting into the Cage is dampish, but afterwards being satisfied sings sweetly; Fox: vol. 2. pag. 277. Mr. Bilney in prison divers times proved the fire, by putting his finger near to the candle; at the first touch of the candle his flesh resisting, and he with drawing his finger, did after chide his flesh in these words; Quid unius membri inustionem ferre non potes, & quo pacto cras totius corporis conflagrationem tolerabis? What (said he) canst thou not bear the burning of one member, and how wilt thou endure to morrow the burning of the whole body? I feel, and have known it long by philosophy, that fire is hot; yet I know some (recorded in God's word) even in the flame felt no heat; and I believe that though my body will be wasted by it, my soul shall be purged thereby. Direct. 2 Secondly, be sure ye suffer upon good grounds, suffer warrantably, and innocently; warrantably, when you must either sin or suffer, or when the Truth must suffer for want of your Testimony; Innocently, sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and make him your fear and your dread; and be ready to give an answer to every one, of the hope that is in you; be sure ye suffer with a good conscience; it is the wind in the bowels of the earth, that causeth the Earthquake: Innocency is an excellent Target under sufferings. A Roman Lady being carried to prison, when great with child, when the time of her travail came, cried out much; says the Jailor to her, what ails you, how will you burn, or bear it to be pricked upon the point of a sword? O! quoth she now I suffer as a malefactor, than I shall suffer as a Martyr. Look you have no sin in your sufferings, if ye would have joy, I have read of many, that have for fear, or love of the world, turned back and apostatised, yet their persecutors would make them suffer, and they did it with great trouble; Labour to be able to say, Lord it is not so much for mine as thy sake that I suffer. Direct. 3 Tirdly, if so be ye would suffer for the name of Christ, get a right understanding of the cross; look on both sides of suffering, observe the sharpness on the one, and yet the sweetness on the other hand. I have read of a picture, that had the deformed shape of a Monster on the one side, and the face of a beautiful virgin on the other: so are sufferings, black on one side and beautiful on the other; when we judge of the Bee by her sting we can't bear with her, but consider honey with it, and she is acceptable. Remember the joyfulness of afflictions, as well as the grieviousness of them, and you will be taken off all prejudices against it. Tribulation works patience, and patience experience, and experience hope, and hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the holy Ghost: God gives all out of love in proportion, and in infinite wisdom, which he will show in due tyme. The ransomed of the Lord shall come to Zion, and everlasting joy shall be upon their hands, though now they have sorrow in their hearts. Direct. 4 Fourthly, Rev. 2.2. comp. with 3. if you would suffer joyfully for Christ, then labour for joy in doing work, this will make way for joy in suffering Rev. 2.2, & 3. compared. I know thy works and thy labour, and thy patience, and for my name sake hast laboured and hast not fainted; the soul that comes once to work and labour, will come to patience, and will not faint: if ye would bear Christ's Cross joyfully, 1 Tim. 4.8. & 9 labour to bear his yoke joyfully; for bodily exercise profiteth little, but godliness is profitable unto all things; having the promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come. This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptation. I count not my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the Ministry which I have received of the Lord Jesus, Acts 20.24. to testify the Gospel of the grace of God; what follows! but I am willing to die at Jerusalem for the name of Jesus. Ps. 119.114. Thou art my hiding place and my shield I hope in thy word. He made the word the man of his Counsels; and so it was the man of his comforts. Fifthly, labour to get a right esteem of sufferings, esteem them as a privilege, an honour as well as a duty, that will make you suffer joyfully, ye must not only look to your innocency, to take heed that you suffer not from God, while you suffer for God: but turn your afflictions into a right stream and channel, to us it is given (saith the Apostle) not only to believe, but also to suffer for his sake, he looked upon it as a Largess. Chrysost. saith of Paul, that he boasts most of this, I Paul the prisoner of the Lord: he does not boast of his high offices, knowledge of arts and sciences, great and glorious Revelations, no, but the glories in his sufferings, as in his own narrative it appears. 2 Cor. 11.23. ad finem capitis. 2 Cor. 11: 23. in labours more abundant: in stripes above measure: in prisons more frequent: in death oft, etc. Sixthly, take heed of consulting with flesh and blood; the flesh is a jade that will kick at sufferings; when Peter grew carnal and fleshly, his voice was no better than this, Master save thyself: which motion Christ rejected, with a get thee behind me Satan. Look not at the making of your own Interest; but advance the Interest of Christ and the Gospel; your endeavours to save your own selves, will but make you stumble at the Cross of Christ. Direct. 7 Seaventhly, labour for a double portion of the Spirit of grace, of love and of a sound mind. This is our victory whereby we overcome the world, even our faith; love is as strong as death, as powerful as the grave, the waters of affliction cannot quench, but will inflame it; it will make you chose (as Moses did) rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, then to enjoy the pleasures of sin, which are but for a season. Eightly, Direct. 8. 1 Cor. 15.31. Heb. 13.13. 1 Cor. 7.30. take heed of being overcome with love to the world. I protest by your rejoicing which I have in Christ Jesus our Lord, I die daily. We must go forth unto Christ without the Camp, bearing his reproach. If we would rejoice in the world, it must be as if we rejoiced not, and if we buy, as if we possessed not. Our rejoicing should be in God, not in the world for the fashion thereof passeth away; in a day of prosperity we are too apt to be filled with carnal joy; Gal. 6.14. and oft times we have the more heavenly joy in God in a day of Adversity. God forbidden I should glory in any thing save in the Cross of Christ, whereby the world is crucified unto me, and I am crucified unto the world. A holy contempt of the world, will best lead you to a holy joy in God. Direct. 9 Ninthly, be much in the consideration of Heaven, that will make amends for all your sufferings on earth; thou shalt make me glad, with the light of thy countenance, thou wilt show me the path of life; in thy presence is fullness of joy, at they right hand there are pleasures for ever more. And in the Acts 2.25, 26. it is said of David in the person of Christ; Psal. 16. ult. that he foresaw the Lord always before his face, therefore did my heart rejoice, and my tongue was glad, moreover also my flesh shall rest in hope. O the blessed enjoyment of God reserved for the next world! the glorious vision and fruition of God, that is to be enjoyed in heaven; the communion that is to be enjoyed with the glorious Angels and Saints in Heaven, will sweeten all. Rejoice that your names are written in Heaven. Luke 10.20. Luke 10.20. in the Lamb's book of life; if your names are written in blood or in water in the world's Calandre, yet they are written in gold in the Lamb's book of life; with in a few days, you shall enter into your Master's joy. I reckon not the sufferings of this present time worthy to be compared to the glory that is to be revealed in us: Look upon sin and hell, and then sufferings and heaven will appear the highest good. I read of one that spent his time in reading of three leaves; the black leaf of his own sins; the red leaf of Christ's blood, and the white leaf of Heaven and Eternity. Three leaves worth the reading of. For this cause we faint not, while we look not at the things which are seen and temporal; but at those things which are not seen, but eternal. Labour to make a right comparison between the horror of hell, and the happiness of Heaven: get a greater assurance of Heaven, 1 Pet. 1.3. that ye may rejoice in the hope that is laid up for you in Heaven. This was that, those scattered Sants blessed God for. Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ: which according to his abundant mercy, hath begotten us again unto a lively hope, by the resurrecton of Jesus Christ from the dead. To an inheritance incorruptable and undefiled that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you. This made them break out into a triumphant doxology; this made the Martyr's hearts leap for joy under their sufferings for Christ, even the thoughts of Heaven and that blessed eternity to which they were going; holy Ignatius triumphed going to suffer at Rome; yea, gloried and triumphed to think that the Lord would come to reckon for blood. Tenthtly, and lastly, labour to get your hearts discharged of carnal and slavish fear, perfect love casteth out fear; be not afraid to die, and you will not be afraid to suffer. Ye may thresh the body of a poor man, but ye cannot hurt the jewel of his soul. Threaten saith the Emperor what ye will, I fear nothing but sin; fear not them that can kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do; but I will forewarn you whom ye should fear: fear him that when he hath killed, hath power to destroy both body and soul in hell fire. Why shouldst thou fear a mortal man, that hath his breath in his Nostrils, or his big words, or staring face? do men threaten imprisonment? God threatens hell. Do they promise great rewards, if ye will but comply with them? Ask them (as the Father did) whether they can give that to you they would take from you. The sixth Proposition is this. That the Consideration of Christ's name, that is concerned in the sufferings of the Saints, is sufficient, to encourage them under them. Doct. 6 They rejoiced, they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name sake; not for their own name. The great ground of joy under sufferings is Christ's name. 2 Cor. 4.11. For we which live are always delivered unto death for Jesus sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh. Christ's blood is the meritorious cause, and his spirit and grace the assisting cause, and when sufferings come from his name sake as the procuring cause there is always joy in them. Therefore when we suffer for bearing witness to the Truth, this is suffering for Christ's name; when we thus hold forth the profession of Christ's name, it tends to the glory of Christ. When we suffer out of Love to Christ's honour to his person, love to his offices and administrations, chooseing to suffer rather than to abate any duty, or neglect any communion, when we suffer upon a Gospel account, as Christ suffered for the introduction, so we for the confirmation, as he for the satisfaction, so we for the edification of the Church, that is the valuable account of our sufferings: Phil. 2.17. this the Apostle triumphed in Phil. 2.17. there he tells them If I be offered upon the sacrifice and service of your Faith, I joy and rejoice with you all. There is great reason why this should encourage the hearts of God's people under all their sufferings, because it is but a just return to him of his sufferings for us: it entails us to great honour with him; and he is able to recompense us for them all. 2 Thess. 1.7. 2 Thess. 1.7. And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty Angels. To close all hence. Use 1 First, Learn the different excellency there is between the suffering of the Gospel, and all other sufferings. Sufferings for sin are a cause of sorrow rather than joy, some corrections are for sin, some for the trial and probation of grace; some for bearing witness to the Truth. In corrections for sin, we may have comfort; if born patiently, and submissively, justifying of God and condemning of ourselves, and humbling ourselves for the sin, that was the provoking cause of them: there is comfort in those sufferings, that are for the trial and probation of grace, it will be found for honour and praise at the appearing of Jesus Christ: Luke 21.13. But under sufferings for Christ's name much more; This will turn to you for a testimony. If we suffer as evil doers, our sufferings are not thankworthie, but if we suffer wrongfully happy are we. Use 2 Secondly, by way of encouragement, let us not be afraid, nor ashamed of the afflictions of the Gospel, as the Apostle speaks, because they are upon the account of the precious name of Christ: no matter though we be disgraced, so Christ may be honoured, if our names be cut out, so Christ may be exalted. The Church and people of God may encourage themselves, that they have the name of Christ to bear it out with, even that name by which the whole family in heaven and earth is named. Saith Calvin, let Luther call me Devil, so Christ may be magnified by me I care not: many will be forward to suffer upon the account of a temporal Prince and Agent: and account themselves honoured thereby, how much more honourable is it to suffer for the Prince of life, and glory? Thirdly how precious ought Christ's name to be to the saints; if it will make sufferings so sweet; what will it not make sweet? how precious must that name needs be, that we are concerned to lay down our names and lives for, if called for? O how sweet is the name of Christ? it will like a bunch of Camphire sweeten all to us. Let us esteem of that blessed name, and count all loss and dross, yea, and dung for the excellency of the knowledge of it. Cant. 1.3. Cant. 1.3. Because of the savour of thy good ointments thy name is as an ointment poured forth, therefore do the Virgins love thee. To such as believe Christ's name is precious. He is admired of his saints, and of all them that believe. Nothing shall separate me (saith the Apostle) from the love of God; which is in Christ Jesus. If we love that name, we shall not only be ready to be bound, but to die at Jerusalem, for the name of Jesus; rather choosing the communion of God's people, and the afflicted state thereof, than all the pleasures of sin, which are but for a season. FINIS.