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THE
FULFILLING
OF
THE SCRIPTURE
ROBERT FLEMING
VOL. I.
ISSUED BY THE COMMITTEE OF
THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE FREE CHURCH OF SCOTLAND
FOR THE PUBLICATION OF THE WORKS OF
SCOTTISH REFORMERS AND DIVINES.
EDINBURGH:
PRINTED FOR THE ASSEMBLY'S COMMITTEE,
MDCCCXLV,
EDINBURGH : FEINTED BY JOHN GREIG.
LIF
EGBERT FLEMING.
BY THE EDITOR.
Robert Fleming, author of the " Fulfilling^of the Scripture," was born at Yester, East Lothian, in the year 1630. His father, Mi* James Fleming, who was minister of that parish, enjoyed the distinguished honour of being son-in-law to the great Reformer of Scotland, haying married Martha, the eldest daughter of John Knox ; it was however by a second marriage, into which the minister of Yester entered at a late period of life, that his son Robert was born. Although the latter was so sickly in infancy, that he was a pain- ful burden to his relatives, who longed for Ms death as a release from hopeless suffering, yet he — the " re- fuse of his family," as he humbly terms himself — was preserved for a long life of activity and usefulness in the militant church of Christ, while the rest of his father's children, three healthy brothers, were succes- sively taken away. The sickliness of infancy was
1Y LIFE OP
succeeded by the dangers of active boyhood, in one of which, his career was nearly terminated by the stroke of a club, so near the eye, as to threaten the destruction of both sight and life. As in after periods he was a devout and grateful observer of those inter- positions which so many persons term accidental, and are ready to forget, he has recorded the above, among many others, in a brief record, which he entitled, " A short Index of some of the great appearances of the Lord, in the dispensation of his providences to his poor servant." This index was found in manuscript after his decease ; but the notices are so short, being merely designed as memoranda for his own private use, that the most of them are nearly, or wholly un- intelligible.
The boyhood and youth of the subject of our memoir were carefully superintended by his excellent parents, and the proficiency he made in learning and early piety requited their affectionate care. It would ap- pear, that the fervid imaginative temperament which so conspicuously pervaded his character and writings, had no small influence even during boyhood, in ele- vating his thoughts to the highest of all subjects, and directing his wishes and aims to the work of the mi- nistry. This we conclude, from a short note in the " Index," where he specifies as a gracious manifesta- tion from God, "a strange and extraordinary impres- sion I had of an audible voice in the church, at night ; when being a child, I had got up to the pulpit, calling me to make haste." The lives of distinguished men
ROBERT FLEMING. V
in critical periods of the church, when more than ordinary trials are to be endured, abound in such striking impulses as these, by which the choice of life both for time and eternity is directed ; and the pious listener hearing in these, an express command de- livered by the voice of God, commences his career with an ardour which no earthly summons could have kindled. Thus they are prepared to accomplish deeds that seem impossible, or to bear sufferings that appear beyond human endurance. It is true, that when the dangers they have braved are over, and the emergen- cies they have encountered are set at rest, another generation, which succeeds to the tranquillity that has been procured by the death-struggle of their holy predecessors, will reason coldly upon these premoni- tions and impulses, or even laugh them to scorn. But granting for a moment that such inspirations might be explained upon the natural principle, that an age of great events produces a commensurate intensity of thought and feeling, still, we must recognise in the direction and results of that enthusiasm, the great creative hand that fashions instruments for the work — the same omnipotent voice that out of the very stones of the desert could have raised up children to Abraham.
In consequence of his early choice of the ministry, Fleming, after having completed the usual school- routine of education, studied first at the university of Edinburgh, and afterwards at that of St Andrews, at which last place, he enjoyed the rich theological
b
VI LIFE OF
lectures aiid instructions of Samuel Rutherford ; and it is not to be doubted, that under such a teacher, his heart was warmed with fresh ardour, while his under- standing was elevated and expanded. The proficiency of the zealous student in the learned languages, and in such sciences as were then taught, was conspicuous, as he possessed a penetrating judgment, lively fancy, and strong memory, with habits of studious industry and application. But History, and especially Sacred History, was his favourite study : it was there that he traced the foot-prints of Providence continually mov- ing to and fro upon the earth ; and while he was exploring with a heedful and reverent eye the paths of the divine Ruler through the dimness of past ages, and over the wrecks of fallen empires, he was thus qualifying himself for his future important task of illustrating the fulfilment of Scripture. At the early age of seventeen, and probably while he was a student at the university of Edinburgh, an epoch in his life occurred, compared with which all other hopes and fears of man are but as dust in the balance. It is briefly characterised in his Index as " that solemn and memorable day of the communion at Grayfriars, in the entry of the year 1648, where I had so extra- ordinary a sense of the Lord's presence ; yea, whence I can date the first sealing evidence of my conversion, now forty years past." The shock of public events, and the din of arms, at last drew the student from his retirement. At the age of twenty, and probably at the close of his college life, and before he had been
ROBERT FLEMING. Vll
licensed to preach, we find him in the ranks of the Scottish army under David Leslie, but whether as a military volunteer in arms, or as a non-combatant, we cannot now discover. It is certain, however, that he was present at the disastrous conflict at Dunbar, and had a full share in its dangers, experiencing also, as he has noted in his Index, " the Lord's gracious and signal preservation and deliverance."
With Fleming, the preparations for the work of the ministry had been conducted under a deep conviction of its eternal importance both to himself and others ; and therefore, in addition to his literary and theologi- cal labours, he had bound himself by a solemn resolu- tion before God, to prosecute that sacred vocation with the utmost earnestness, divesting himself as far as possible of all prejudices, whether of education, party, or interest. Of this holy compact, he several years afterwards informed his friends ; and it is gratifying to add, that his son Robert, then a young boy, hap- pening to overhear the conversation, was so deeply impressed with his father's words, that he resolved to become a minister also, and adopt a similar prepara- tion. When he had only reached his twenty-second year, Fleming, who had been a preacher for a very short period, received a call from the people of the parish of Cambuslang to become their pastor, which he accepted, We have no means of ascertaining his personal history for some years afterwards ; but we may safely conclude, that it was such as usually cha- racterised the calm retired life of a country minister,
Vlll LIFE OF
zealous in his work, and constantly endeavouring to win souls to Christ. But a storm had been gather- ing from the beginning over this tranquil horizon, by which he, and faithful ministers such as he, were to be unhoused, and flung into the world. We allude to the fearful ejectment of 1662, a short account of which may be necessary, more fully to illustrate the continuation of this narrative.
It is well known to every reader of Scottish history, that the great aim of the Stuarts, after their acces- sion to the English throne, was the establishment of Episcopacy in Scotland. It was however from no devout conviction of any religious superiority in the prelatic form of government, that James I. and Charles I. persevered in this measure, or perhaps from any religious principle whatever : but they were obstinately bent upon the establishment of an arbi- trary government over the whole united kingdom, an object which they knew could not be accomplished, while the Presbyterianism of Scotland existed. That was the formidable breakwater against which the tide of despotism had dashed and raged, and which still remained unbroken, though it had often reeled to the shock. Charles II. inherited to the full the despotic principles of his predecessors, so that he re- newed the attack upon Presbyterianism, and con- tinued it with a pertinacity which he never exhibited in any other measures of his government. It hap- pened also, unfortunately for Scotland, that the gene- ral fueling of the community, at the Restoration.
ROBERT FLEMING. IX
afforded greater facilities for an attack upon their church, than any that had previously occurred. The nobility, never famed at any period of Scottish his- tory for ardent patriotism and heroic self-denial, were delighted at the return of royalty, because they saw in it the promise of court favour and promotion ; while the people, weary of the religious strife of the Commonwealth, were earnest for peace, and ready to purchase it at whatever price. From this state of things, it was easy for the royal ordinances which declared the king supreme judge in ecclesiastical as well as civil matters, to find men in authority to enforce, as well as multitudes to obey them •; while the conscientious recusants, no longer a triumphant ma- jority, had no alternative but to suffer. And suffer they did, in the same heroic spirit with which they had formerly fought and conquered.
But of all the evil and unconstitutional measures devised for the ruin of the Scottish Church, the crowning iniquity was perpetrated by what is usually termed the Glasgow Act, in 1662. Long had the prelates regarded with envious feelings the affection of the people for their faithful pastors ; bitterly had they complained of the aversion both of ministers and people, to bow the knee to their spiritual supremacy ; and on the arrival of the unprincipled Earl of Mid- dleton, the king's commissioner, at Glasgow, their pent- up indignation burst forth. Fairfoul, the Archbishop of that See, complained to the Commissioner, that none of the younger ministers of the diocese who had
X LIFE OF
entered office since 1649, had attended his ecclesias- tical courts, or recognised his episcopal authority; and the remedy he suggested was, to eject them from their houses, livings, and presbyteries, unless within a certain day they obtained presentations from the pa- trons of their parishes, and applied to the bishops for collation and admission. This was truly a startling proposal — the life and death remedy of the most des- perate empiricism, in which success was but barely possible, while failure was certain destruction. But the archbishop was very confident in the efficacy of his specific. He assured the earl, that there were scarcely ten men in the diocese, who would encounter the penalty; and the earl unfortunately believed him. In consequence of this advice, Middleton held a meet- ing of Council at Glasgow, on the first day of October. It was truly a Pandemonium conclave, for most of the members were in a state of intoxication — and they reeled to the council board to legislate for the Church of Christ ! The result, where deliberation there could be none, might be easily anticipated. The archbishop's plan was adopted, and it became the law of the land. And then ensued such consequences, as evinced the miserable inability of worldly wisdom to guage the depths of conscience, or ascertain the strength of reli- gious principle. On the last sabbath of the same month, two hundred ministers preached a mournful farewell to their flocks ; and soon after, nearly two hundred more followed their example. It was only then, when too late to recant, that cunning statesmen and lordly
ROBERT FLEMING. XI
prelates were astounded, and at their wits-end. Four hundred confessors, the lights and ornaments of their church, thus doomed to suffer for the cause of Christ — their appeal to their fellow-men to behold, and to a righteous God to judge — implied an amount of cruelty and crime committed, and of fearful retribu- tion to follow, which no government or political ad- ministration, however strong, could hope to brave with impunity ; and the perpetrators of the deed writhed under the consciousness, that they had only strength- ened the cause they so deeply hated, by calling forth the exhibition of such holy and sublime devotedness, and investing it with the glory of martyrdom. And well it was for our beloved church, that an event ap- parently so untoward occurred at this particular crisis. "Wiser statesmen thanMiddleton andFairfoul had ma- tured an ingenious scheme, by which the cause, hitherto inexpugnable by open violence, was to be sapped by a gradual and secret hostility, under which it might piecemeal and in silence moulder away. But this blundering movement sounded such a loud alarm, that men could sleep no longer: the church started to arms, and commenced that open conflict in which she finally prevailed.
In this band of sufferers for the cause of right- eousness, Robert Fleming, as might be expected, was included. In his case, there were circumstances pe- culiarly calculated to shake his firmness, and seduce him into guilty submission. He was the husband of a lady distinguished, according to the testimony of
Xll LIFE OF
her contemporaries, for beauty, talent, and piety ; he was the father of seven children, none of whom had passed the helplessness of boyhood. In addition to a happy home and these domestic endearments which he was thus prepared to sacrifice, he had a flock amongst whom he had laboured for years, and by whom he was appreciated and beloved. But duties more imperative still, a higher object of affection, and the heaven-born perception of spiritual realities beyond time and the world, prevailed. In the dreary season of winter he left the comfortable manse of Cambuslang, accompanied by his amiable partner and weeping children ; and like the patriarch of old, he went forth into the world at the call of God, un- conscious what city or country might be his final resting-place. But his faith, like that of Abraham, was duly rewarded, and after such implicit obedience., he was suffered to lack no good thing. " As for worldly substance," says Burgess his biographer, "his share seems according to Agur's desire. He hath told me, that as Luther, he never to his know- ledge desired much of it, or was very careful about it. His own testimony," continues Burgess, " of his life was this — It was once made up of seeming con- trarieties ; great outward trouble, and great inward comfort ; and I never found (said he) more comfort, than when I was under most affliction."
After his departure from the parish of Cambus- lang, the " outed minister" lived chiefly in Edinburgh, Fifcshire, and other parts of Scotland, preaching when
ROBERT FLEMING. xiii
an opportunity occurred. In this way, several years elapsed, during which he was exposed to all those hazards which faithful ministers underwent from the minions of arbitrary power. At length, in 1673, when more stringent acts were formed by the council against the holding of Conventicles, his labours in Scotland were brought to a close. In the month of Septem- ber, he was summoned, along with the ejected minis- ters in Edinburgh and its neighbourhood, to appear before the Privy Council, in order to receive the sen- tence of confinement, and have the place of his ward appointed ; but judging it unsafe to comply with this citation, he withdrew himself to London. During the following year, his wife died in Scotland ; and perhaps from anxiety about the state of his children, he ventured, after that mournful bereavement, to revisit his native country. It was probably during this homeward journey, that an event occurred, which he has noticed in his list of remarkable interpositions of Providence. He fell under the York coach, the great wheel of which passed over his left leg, but with so gentle a pressure, that the limb remained unbroken, and even unhurt. This we shall find a truly wonderful escape, if we take into account the lumbering weight of the stage-coaches of that period, and the slowness of their motion. After making some stay in Scotland, he visited London a second time, and employed himself, as he had formerly done, in preaching among the Presbyterian congregations of the metropolis, and the adjacent counties. It appears
XIV LIFE OF
however, that to the English portion of his auditories, his eloquence was somewhat clouded, and his mean- ing sometimes unintelligible, from his vernacular idioms, and broad Scottish pronunciation. But a more permanent and congenial field of usefulness was soon opened to him, by a call from the congregation of the Scots Church at Rotterdam to become their minister, which he cordially accepted. This charge was a truly interesting and important one. In con- sequence of the great resort of Scottish merchants and seamen to the port of Rotterdam, a congregation had been gradually formed, and in 1642, the magis- trates of the city generously offered to defray the salary of a regular pastor out of the public purse. A liberal stipend was accordingly fixed, the congre- gation rapidly increased under the labours of Petrie, Hog, and M'Ward ; and they were enabled to furnish a refuge and a home to many distinguished ministers and laymen, who continued to be driven from Scot- land by the violence of persecution. So great indeed had been the increase of their numbers from this cause alone, that two ministers instead of one were found necessary ; and it was to occupy the second charge, that Fleming repaired to Rotterdam, in 1677. Having thus obtained a permanent home for him- self and family, he asked and obtained permission from his people, at the end of the following year, to return to Scotland, that he might bring his children to Hol- land. On arriving in Edinburgh, he ventured, in spite of the severe laws against holding conventicles,
ROBERT FLEMING. XV
to collect meetings of his old friends, for preaching and devotional exercises. But this proceeding soon came to the vigilant ears of the authorities, by whom he was arrested and thrown into the Tolbooth, where he remained several months. A short time after the battle of Bothwell Bridge, he was brought before the Council. He agreed to their demand to give bail for his appearance when called upon ; but when they also required his promise to live peaceably, and yield pas- sive obedience to the royal authority in all things, he refused, and was in consequence remanded to prison. His confinement however did not last long, and on being set at liberty, he resolved to return to his flock in Holland. He was escorted by three of his friends to the port from which he was to set sail ; and as the company rode along, he was observed to be very silent, as if buried in thought, and taking no share in the con- versation. After some time, he was overheard uttering to himself these striking words, " God will put a pe- riod to the race of the Stuarts, and that, very shortly."
On arriving at Rotterdam, Fleming zealously re- sumed his pastoral duties, and his diligence was such, that in the quaint language of his biographer, the " sun stood still all the time wherein he had no design for God going on." While he was thus assiduous in preaching and instructing his people, his works ex- tended his reputation over Holland, and proved a blessing to many.
While the peaceful divine was thus pursuing his sacred task, the tide of immigration from the shores
XVI LIFE OF
of England and Scotland continued to increase, in con- sequence of the arbitrary proceedings of James II. The self-seeking politician, the patriot, and the sufferer for conscience' sake, all equally turned their hopes to Holland, and repaired thither for relief, so that Rot- terdam became a focus of political intrigue, which had for its object, the expulsion of the Stuarts. And still, amidst this din and turmoil, where so many interests were raging and conflicting, there was heard a voice — a gentle voice — that spoke of hopes beyond the grave, and a kingdom not of this world. When William at length embarked, the expectations of the exiles were so great, that they set no bounds to their exultation. But the seer-like spirit of Fleming looked into the future, and was sad. It was either when the Prince of Orange was about to sail, or when he had already landed in England, that Fleming visited the Lady Cardross, one of his hearers, at that time living at Rotterdam, and found at her house a large party of his countrymen. All were buoyant, not only in the hope of deliverance, but of future prosperity to their cause ; but he was sad and silent. " Sir," said the lady, on observing his melancholy, " perhaps you are offended at our extraordinary mirth ; and indeed, it may be, we are exceeding in it : but wc are like people who have been long in prison, and rejoice when the doors are opening." " No, no, madam," replied the minister, " I am not offended at your innocent jollity: nature must work, and I can easily make allowances for such a juncture as this. But what makes me
ROBERT FLEMING. XYll
sullen when you are all in joy, is this — I fear that this mercy shall be misimproYed, and after long time of peace and purity, Scotland and England will grow much worse : and I see, after many years, a blacker eloud than ever coming upon Britain, and days that make me tremble at the forethought of them. May God disappoint my fears !"
The revolution of 1688 having removed the re- strictions by which he might otherwise have been hindered, Fleming repeatedly visited London, where he remained several months at a time, enjoying the affection of the pious, and the esteem of the learned and talented. It was during one of these visits in the summer of 1694, that he was attacked with his last illness. At the commencement of the disease, which was a fever, he said to those around him, " Oh, friends, sickness and death are serious things !" Still however he did not believe that his end was near, but that he should recover ; and he observed to a relative, that if he was appointed to die of this disease, it would be strange, as the Lord did not use to hide from him the things that He did with him and his. But the rapid progress of the fever soon abated this confidence. To a friend who visited him, he said, " What freedom do yon find in prayer for me I Seems God to beckon to your petitions 1 — or does he bind you up, and leave dark impressions on your mind \ In this manner, I have often known the way of the Lord." The other replied, that he was in darkness about the matter. " Well," said the sufferer, " I know your mind :
XV111 LIFE OF
trouble not yourself for me : I think, I may say, that I have been long above the fear of death." His pains increased ; but amidst his groans and struggles, the tranquillity of his soul seemed to be untouched ; and to every question of his anxious friends, his an- swer was, " I am very well" — or, " I never was better" — or, " I feel no sickness." "When at length he was so exhausted as to be unable to speak, and was unfit for his wonted prayer and meditation, he said to those who were beside him, " I have not been able in a manner to form one serious thought, since I was sick, or to apply myself unto God : he has applied himself unto me ; and one of his manifestations was such, as I could have borne no more." Two of his sons at- tended his death-bed, one of whom said to him, " Do you know me]" With an affectionate smile he re- plied, " Yes, yes, dear son, I know you." About an hour after, he earnestly exclaimed, " Help, help, for the Lord's sake !" — and with a few faint breathings expired. This was on the 25th of July, and in the fifty-eighth year of his age, after a short illness of eight days.
Of the piety of Robert Fleming it is unnecessary now to speak : that was felt and attested by his co- temporaries in Scotland, England, and Holland, as well as stamped upon his writings with an indelible impress. Living at a period of peculiar trial, when the views of men were often narrowed by prejudice, and embittered by party -spirit, the Melancthon-like gentleness of his temper, with the tolerant and liberal
ROBERT FLEMING. SIX
views he took of those who in many points differed from himself, were greatly in advance of his friends ; and on this account, many condemned as lukewarm and indifferent, a course of procedure which they would have done well to imitate. But these miscon- ceptions were amply refuted by his sacrifices and suf- ferings, as well as the whole tenor of his life. Often would he exclaim, " What a servant the bond of love is, to the unity and purity of faith !" And when he contemplated the religious dissensions so prevalent m London, he thus expressed himself, "I am amazed to see good men thus tear one another in the dark ; nor can I understand how they should have grace in due exercise, who value their particular designs, above the interest of the catholic church ; and who confine religion to their own notions and models." The same gentle and tolerant spirit he also carried into the affairs of every-day life. To an acquaintance complaining of certain injuries he had received from pretended friends, Fleming replied, " To me, to be judged of man, and of man's judgment, is a small thing. I bless God, I value not my own name, but God's only. I do confess, when men wound the credit of the gospel through me, it is hard then to bear up." And once in conversation with an intimate and dear friend in London, he said, " I bless God, in fifteen years' time, I have not ever given any man's credit a thrust behind his back : but when I had ground to speak well of any man, I did so with faithfulness ; and when I wanted a subject that way, I kept silence."
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It may be objected by readers of the works of Robert Fleming, that his writings are occasionally disfigured with indications of an over-credulous spirit. But let it be remembered, that the same charge in- volves most of the writings of the seventeenth cen- tury, whether in literature, science, or theology. It is enough to plead the character and example of the age, as his excuse. Living as he did at a period when intellects of the very highest order had not yet been liberated from the superstitions of their prede- cessors, he gave credence — with some hesitation, how- ever— to stories of omens and dreams, of supernatural warnings and spectral apparitions, and introduced them as illustrations of his argument. But this was only the venial error of a devout spirit, habitually yearning towards the spiritual and the unseen, as to its kindred element and home, and reading in these phenomena, the interpositions of an ever-active pro- vidence, and an ever-present God. Instead there- fore of mutilating the " Fulfilling of the Scripture," by erasing or qualifying these passages, we have left them as we found them, and left them without note or comment ; judging, that the sagacity of our readers will be able to detect them for themselves, and know- ing, that it is not the peculiar danger of the present age to believe too much.
From so early a period as his fifteenth or sixteenth year, it had been the practice of this earnest servant of God, to set apart the commencement of every year to solemn meditation, and self-dedication to his di-
ROBERT FLEMING. XXI
vine Master ; a practice which he continued to the close of his life. The following specimens of these im- portant covenants, have been extracted by Dr Burgess from Fleming's diary : —
" 1692. It is in the entry, and first day of this new year, that I desire here, as formerly, to enter (in this hidden record) a new surrender and offering of my- self to my dear Lord and Master, who hath been wonderfully tender and gracious to me, and hath brought me by his immediate conduct, through the days and years of my pilgrimage past ; hath still cared for his poor servant, and given more singular mercies and evidences of respect, than to many else ; and now (as still formerly), hath taken me through this last year, with singular evidences of his presence and assist- ance. And as I trusted myself to my Lord, so hath he graciously answered: for which, and his special grace hitherto, I desire to insert this witness of my soul's blessing the Lord my God.
"And now, I do here, with my full and joyful con- sent, testify my giving up myself again to the Lord, and to his work and service here, and wherever he shall call me ; with desire to consecrate my old age to my God, and the guide of my youth. I love my Master, and his service ; and let my ears be nailed to the posts of his door, as one that would not go free from that blessed yoke and service ; and lays in hope the whole assistance hereof, on his grace and help. And now, in so extraordinary a case as is alone to my
tczU LIFE OF
Lord, I desire to witness and renew tne same here with my humble and entire reliance on him who is my trust, from my youth to'this day, my shield, and exceeding great reward. To him I commit myself, my ways, my work and service, which with my soul's desire I offer to my Lord : in whose hand I desire to secure my credit for the gospel's sake, my comfort, and enlargement in this day of deep trouble and an- guish ; together with my poor children, and the whole interest of my family and concerns : desiring to put myself with humble confidence, and all that is dear to me, under his care and conduct. 0 my soul, bless thou the Lord. This I write the 1st of January 1692. " My Lord and my God. B,. Fleming."
" 1694. It is in the first day and Monday of this new year, 1694, that as I have formerly through most of my life past, so now, do I desire to renew my dedi- cation and engagements to the Lord my God, and to join in the same witness with what herein hath been formerly, with my whole heart and desire; and to offer unto my dearest Lord praise, in remembrance of what he hath done through the year past, and in the whole of my life, whose gracious tender conduct hatli been so wonderful, (and well hast thou, my Lord, dealt with thy servant, according to thy word), in all hath befallen me. And as my soul docs now move, and betake myself alone to Him, as my own God, my Father, my Redeemer and blessed Comforter, and my only all, so do I hereby witness the settling of my
ROBERT FLEMING. XX1H
trust, my hope and reliances, alone upon him for this new year, or what time of my life may yet remain ; with earnest desire to enter yet again, and continue in his service, even in that delightful service of my dearest Lord and Master.
" And now do I again, by a new surrender witness my entire commitment of myself, my poor children, my credit for the gospel, my conduct and comfort in so extraordinary a juncture, to my dearest Lord, to his gracious and compassionate care and providence ; to- gether with my works, and any small design to serve him and my generation. And I do entreat news up- plies of His grace and strength, to secure, and make his poor servant (if it were his blessed will) yet more abundantly forth-coming to him. And with hope and acceptance I write this. January 1. 1694.
" Post tenebras spero lucem. R. Fleming."
The Fulfilling of the Scripture was orgmally publish- ed by the author, in three separate portions. The first, which was printed at Rotterdam in 1669, was given to the world under the following copious title : " The Ful- filling of the Scripture : or, an Essay, shewing the exact accomplishment of the word of God, in his works of providence performed, and to be performed ; for con- firming the believers, and convincing the atheists of the present time : containing in the end, a few rare histories of the works and servants of God in the Church of Scotland." This work, which afterwards constituted Part I. of the Essay, he materially ex-
Xxiv LIFE OF
panded and improved. As the subject continued to increase with him in magnitude and importance by further study, he published a Second Part, under the title of " The Faithfulness of God, considered and cleared, in the great event of his word." The Third Part succeeded, entitled, " The Great Appearances of God for his Church, under the New Testament; with many choice Speeches of suffering and dying Christians." These three separate publications were reprinted in one volume folio, in 1726 ;* and so highly was the work accounted of, by those who were best qualified to appreciate its merits, that this collection was recommended by the following attestation, bear- ing the signatures of twenty-one eminent English di- vines of that period, among whom were Isaac Watts, and Neal, the well-known author of the History of the Puritans :
" The late reverend and learned Mr Robert Flem- ing, is universally known to have been a person of singular worth and piety ; and his works declare him a diligent and careful observer of the providences of God towards his church and people. Many such in- stances, which no other author has taken notice of, and which, were they not well attested, would appear
* This edition, which we have used as the most authentic, has been also collated with later ones, as well as with the original edition of 10(59, and another of 1721, in consequence of which, we have been enabled to correct several errors of the folio copy of 1726. The punctuation also, which was faulty in the extreme, and by which the arguments were difficult to follow, and many sentences rendered un- iutelligible, has been carefully revised and corrected.
ROBERT FLEMING. XXV
almost incredible, are to be met with in bis book, called "The Fulfilling of the Scripture," — a perform- ance, which has so far entitled itself to the esteem of all serious Christians, as not to need our recom- mendation. But as there is now printed a handsome edition of this work in one volume, which before was divided into three parts, some of which are very scarce, together with some account of his life, taken from his own Diary, we could not, in justice to the per- formance, or respect for the author, refuse to recom- mend it to the world ; hoping and praying, that through the divine blessing, it may be made of great service and use to those who shall peruse it."
Besides the Fulfilling of the Scripture, Fleming was the author of the following works, which were also intended to have been published in another folio. But as the design was abandoned, they are now rarely to be found :
1. The Confirming Work of Religion.
2. The Treatise of Earthquakes
3. The One Thing necessary.
4. The Truth and Certainty of the Protestant Faith.
5. The Epistolary Discourse, dedicated to Queen Mary. In two parts.
6. The Survey of Quakerism.
7. The Present Aspect of the Times.
8. The Healing Work ; written on account of Di- visions in Scotland.
Only two sons of Fleming's family survived, of whom, Robert was appointed his father's successor at
XX Vi LIFE OP
Rotterdam. His history possesses peculiar interest. After having received the elements of education in Scotland, he studied at the universities of Leyden and Utrecht, was afterwards minister of a Scots Church in Leyden, and a short time after was called to his father's vacant charge. Having been honoured with the confidence of the Prince of Orange, who con- sulted him in Scottish affairs, and highly valued his wisdom and sterling excellence, William, after his accession to the British throne, added the weight of his personal application to the call of the presbyterian congregation of Lothbury, who invited Robert Fle- ming to become their minister. He complied with their urgent invitation, and laboured in that humble sphere with such disinterestedness, that he not only refused several parochial charges in Scotland which were offered him, but even the office of Principal of the University of Glasgow. So great also was his modesty, that his interviews with the sovereign were always conducted in secrecy, at his own express desire ; and such was the estimation in which his piety and learning were held, that the chief dignitaries of the church, with the Archbishop of Canterbury at their head, were eager to cultivate his friendship; while the dissenting ministers of London, although he belonged to a different church, elected him one of the preachers of the Merchants' Tuesday Lecture at Salters' Hall. While he thus laboured in London, Robert Fleming jun. wrote several works, which although now nearly forgotten, were fraught with such talent, learning, and
ROBERT FLEMING. XXV11
piety, as should have secured for them a different fate. But one of them was revived in the memory of the present generation, and under circumstances that roused the notice and astonishment of Europe. "We allude to his Discourse on the Rise and Fall of Papacy, published in London in 1701. After laying down the principles upon which he conceived the Apocalyp- tic writings should be interpreted, and solving their predictions according to these principles, he says, in explaining the pouring out of the Fourth vial, — ■ " There is ground to hope, that about the beginning of another such century, things may again alter for the better : for I cannot but hope, that some new mortification of the chief supporters of Antichrist will then happen ; and perhaps, the French monarchy may begin to be considerably humbled about that time : that whereas the present French king takes the sun for his emblem, and this for his motto, " Nee pluribus impar"* he may at length, or rather his successors, and the monarchy itself, at least before the year 1794, be forced to acknowledge, that in re- spect to neighbouring potentates, he is even singulis impar. \ But as to the expiration of this vial, I do fear it will not be until the year 1794. * * * * We may justly suppose, that the French monarchy, after it has scorched others, will itself consume by doing so, its fire, and that which is the fuel that maintains it, wasting insensibly, till it be exhausted towards the end of this century, as the Spanish mo- * A match for many. f Not a match for one.
XXviii LIFE OF ROBERT FLEMING.
narcliy did before towards the end of the sixteenth age."
These astounding events did occur which, a century previous to the French Revolution, would have been deemed impossible : the monarchy, hitherto regarded with Asiatic veneration by its prostrate subjects, had indeed consumed itself by its own fire, and become a scorn and a byeword to its former worshippers ; and the king himself immured within a prison, was daily menaced with trial or assassination. It was then remembered, that these wondrous changes had been announced nearly a hundred years before, by an al- most forgotten Scottish pastor ; and the work was translated into several languages, as well as reprinted in England and America, and perused with universal admiration — nay, almost with religious awe and dread. The " Rise and Fall of Papacy" once more relapsed into obscurity, and the author at last became so little known, as to be often confounded with his illustrious father. But who can tell whether some equally strange coincidence in coming events, may not again recal it in a similar manner to the notice and wonder of a future generation ?
THE
FULFILLING OF THE SCRIPTURE.
FART I.
CONTENTS,
Page Tlie grave subject of the Scripture's accomplishment, considered in some special truths, previously held forth, for giving light to the same, . . . . .13
What is thereby to be understood, in nine particulars opened
up.
14
The verification of the Scripture, considered as the Lord's pe- culiar work and design in the world, and in the whole conduct of providence. . . . ,19
How clear and manifest this great truth is. . . 25
That this, notwithstanding of clear demonstrative evidences of the same, is hid from the most of men, and a great mys- tery to them. ...... 28
What an unanswerable witness and argument, the fulfilling of the Scripture is of its divinity, to satisfy and quiet the soul thereanent. . . . .35
That it is a most solacing, and singularly delectable truth. 40
How much the godly are concerned, now in these latter times, to study the fulfilling of the Scripture, and what advan- tage they have for the same, beyond former ages. . 4G
How weighty a duty it is, and on what pressing grounds it lies
at each Christian's door. . . . .51
Five arguments set down, whence this truth is in the following
treatise clearly demonstrated. . . .55
I. ARGUMENT.
The First Argument, from the solid and sure experience of the godly in all ages, doth witness the real performance of the Scripture. , . . . . .57
A particular following out of this, in five instances. . 59
1st, That there is a contrariety betwixt the flesh and the Spirit, witnessed by Christian experience, as clearly as it is held forth in the Scripture. .... ib.
2d Instance, of the deceitfulness of man's heart, with that wit- ness given in from experience, thereto. . . 62
3d Instance, That there is an invisible adversary without, as
clear and discernible, as that there is corruption within. 64
XXX11 CONTENTS.
Page 4th Instance shews, That real intercourse betwixt a Christian
and the promises of the word, by sure experience, and how clearly this may be demonstrated. . . .68
Some previous considerations for our right understanding this. 69 A more particular demonstration, in ten special promises, where- with the godly, through their life, have a most usual and continual trade. . . . . . 7-
The first promise, considered with respect to our believing, and adventuring on the naked word, without any probable ap- pearance of its out-making, and how clearly this is verified. 73
2. That Grod hears and answers prayers, from solid experi- ence demonstrated. . . . . .75
3. That the pouring out of the Spirit, and its sealing and marvellous power on the soul, is no delusion, but certainly known, demonstrated. ..... 78
4. That light and counsel to the godly, and the directing of their steps, according to the promise, is made out to these who commit their way to him. . . . 82
5. The promise of pardon and forgiveness, how it is sealed
by experience. . . . . .84
6. The promise of support and encouragement to the godly, under the cross, verified. . . . .87
7. The promise of integrity and uprightness in an evil time. 91
8. That the promise of assistance and strength for duty, is truly made out, and verified. . . . .93
9. This promise, of all things working together for their good, who love God, clearly verified in experience. . . 95
10. The great gain and advantage of godliness, demonstrated according to the promise. . . . .98
5th Instance, Holds forth the verification of Scripture-threat -
enings, such, under whose reach the godly may fall. . 102
Some things premitted for clearing this. . . ib.
Some special threatenings instanced, "with that witness the ex- perience of Christians must bear to the same. . 104
A rational demonstration of the truth and reality of godliness, and the validity of that witness, which the experience of the saints in all ages, bear to the out-making of the Scrip- ture, from several grounds held forth. . .114
The great import of this argument from experience, in six par- ticulars considered, and what a transport of joy and won- dering this, when it is brought near to our thoughts, may cause. ...... 124
CONTENTS. XXX111
II. ARGUMENT.
Page Second Argument demonstrates the certain accomplishment of the Scripture, from the Church's continued observation in all ages. ...... 140
This demonstration in three branches followed out. The first branch of the argument doth witness the Scripture's verification, in these promises which concern the universal Church. ...... 141
1. What concerns the Church's continuance and preserva- tion, and how great and marvellous a thing it is, demon- strated. . . . . . ib.
2. Her advance and increase, and how in an ordinary way this could not be, without a miraculous and supernatural power. . . . . . 146
3. The promise of the Spirit, as it respects the Church, and its accompanying the truth and doctrine of Christ in all ages, demonstrated from clear evidences thereof. . 152
4. How the Lord hath given his Church deliverance in her greatest exigencies, according to the promise thereof. . 159
5. That comprehensive promise (Rom. viii. 28) with respect to the Church, clearly verified in the observation of each time. . . . . . . . 164
The second branch of the argument demonstrates the fulfilling of these Scripture-threatenings, which concern the visible Church. . . . . . .163
Seven instances held forth, wherein this is made clear. . 1 69
The third branch of the argument doth witness the clear veri- fication of the Scripture, in these passages of providence, which seem to the world dark and astonishing, whereat many are shaken. . . . . .178
This demonstration in fourteen instances followed out; how these convincingly verify the Scripture, and are great con- firmations of the truth, whereat, upon the first appearance, we are ready to stumble. . . ib.
1. That with the first stirrings of the Church's delivery, her straits and troubles seem to increase. . . . 179
2. A serious endeavour for reformation, and to promote the kingdom of Christ meeting with great interruption, how
it confirms the Scripture. . . . .180
3. How great overclouding and darkness on the church, fol- lowing remarkable manifestations of the glory and power
of God, do clearly verify the truth of the word. . 182
XXXIV CONTENTS.
Page
4. That when judgment comes on a land, it begins first at the best. ....... 104
5. That strange success which follows the worst of men, sometimes in an evil course, made clear. . .185
6. These disappointments the Church oft meets with, when ordinary means seem most promising. . . .186
7. The long continuance of a heavy afflicting rod on the Church, and what a confirmation this is of the word. . 187
8. That Satan hath usually such a counterfeit of any remark- able work of God, set on foot in a land, cleared. . 188
9. The abounding of errors and heresy under the gospel, more than under the Old Testament, how clearly it answers the Scripture. . . . -. . .189
10. These great stirs and commotions that oft attend the gos- pel, when it breaks up in power in a land. . . 191
11. That men of great natural endowments, are such usual opposers of the truth. . . . . .192
12. What strange judgments may befal some of the saints in their outward lot. ..... ib.
13. The gross falling of some, who have shined with great lustre once in the church. .. . . . .193
14. The strange contingency of events in the world, and how this is not at an adventure, but clearly answers the Scrip- ture. ....... 194
This further commended to our serious study, and the great concernment thereof held forth ; to be observing how clearly the Scripture is confirmed by these things, in the way of the Lord, and in the administration of his provi- dence, which seem to many, grounds of shaking, whence they are ready to question the truth. . . .196
Tins cleared in several instances, whence the godly should be more strengthened in the truth, though they seem at the first look, strange. . . . . .197
1 . That the church of Christ should be so universally low, when the whole earth besides seems to be at rest. . ib.
2. The short-breathings of the Church under the New Testa- tament, that we see her lucid intervals usually of so small continuance, and how thus the Scripture is verified. . 202
3. The wearing out of life and power in the Church so often, with a further increase of light, and how thus the truth
is confirmed. ...... 206
4. That the great men of the earth, and these who sit in the
CONTENTS. XXXV
Page place of judgment, are so usually the Church's greatest adversaries. . . . . . .210
5. That instruments sometime eminently useful in the church, with the change of times, should be found to change their principles, is a confirming witness also to the truth. . 219
(3. Reasons for humility, . . . . . ib.
7. Men's personating godliness, and the power thereof, at the greatest rate, who on an after discovery are found most gross, how it is no ground for reflecting on the truth, but should confirm it. ... 219-220
8. These sad jars and divisions which so frequently are seen within the church, cleared. .... 223
9. That the Lord's immediate hand may seem more heavy on his Church and people, in suffering times, than the hand
of man, cleared. . . . . .226
10. To what a strange height, a judicial stroke of induration on the spirits of men may come, and how thus the Scrip- ture is confirmed. ..... 230
11. The righteous falling sometime with the wicked in a com- mon judgment, whilst some notorious for wickedness may
be seen to go to the grave in peace, cleared. . . 233
III. ARGUMENT.
Third Argument to prove the verification of the Scripture, how to the view and conviction of the world, it is undeniably obvious. ...... 235
In fourteen instances demonstrated. . . . 236
1. That man is now fallen from that excellent state, wherein
once he was formed. .... 237
2. The truth and reality of conversion, and how far this
marvellous change is above nature, demonstrated. . 240 What true cause there is of wondering at this great work and how demonstrative an argument it is of the grace of God, and truth of the Scripture, further cleared, with an addition of several evidences more. . .244
3. The truth of fellowship here betwixt God and the soul,
and that this is no fancy or delusion, made clear to the world. . . . . . .249
4. That the righteous is more excellent than his neighbour. 252
5. That the promised encouragement to the godly under
their sufferings for the truth, falls not to the ground. 255
XXXVI CONTENTS.
Page
6. That there is a conscience within men, which clearly an-
swers the discovery of the Scripture thereanent. . 257 A further demonstration of this truth, and how convincing a witness this is against atheism, held forth . . 261
7. How clearly it is made out, there is a reward for the righteous. . . . . . .263
8. That verily there is a God, who judgeth in the earth, de- monstrated to the conviction of the world, from several clear grounds. ...... 267
9. That there are evil spirits, and such a diabolical power,
as the Scripture holds forth, witnessed. . .276
10. That enmity betwixt the children of God and the world, held forth, and how great a witness it is to the truth. . 280
11. That the creature is made subject to vanity, because of sin, clearly demonstrated to the world, and the truth of the Scripture therein. . . . . .282
12. That the end of the righteous is peace. . . 288
13. That great truth of the soul's immortality, and how mis-
taken a thing it is, considered and demonstrated from some clear and undeniable arguments. . . 297
How great and astonishing a truth it is, and what other thoughts men should have thereof, were it rightly under- stood. . . . . . .299
14. That the way of the Lord is perfect, and all his works done in judgment, held forth. .... 300
This demonstration more particularly followed out :
1. In the whole frame and structure of the visible Church. ib.
2. In the conduct and administration of providence about the Church. . . . . . .304
3. In the great work and contrivance of redemption. . 309
4. In that marvellous order and disposal of the works of God, through the whole creation, and with what a subser- viency all things are framed and directed to some special end, considered. . . . . .313
TO THE READER.
Reader, — It is like you may expect some account anent the rise and occasion of this discourse ; that on so great and weighty a subject, so small an Essay should venture abroad, especially in a time, when it seemeth more safe and prudent to keep silence ; to be swift to hear, and slow to speak, which seldom hath an after-challenge. The Author will say little for his apology herein, though he hopeth he may find it more easy to satisfy others, than he did him- self. This freedom only he shall take ; — to confess, that sometimes it hath been matter of earnest, yea, hath caused some tossing and exercise upon his spirit ; and pressed a more serious inquiry and search, with a respect to his own case, to be persuaded anent the Scripture's divine authority, that godliness is not an empty name or shadow, but of an undoubted truth, which indeed of all other things is the greatest, and of most near concernment. And truly, anent that, this grave convincing argument of the Scripture's certain accomplishment, hath not only oft stared him in the face, with a satisfying discovery and impres- sion thereof, as a most quieting and unanswerable
A
2 TO THE READER.
demonstration of the truth, but he must also say, that by very remarkable confirmations from the Lord, this hath been so convincingly witnessed to his ex- perience, as leaveth him under engagement (were such a poor testimony of weight) to put his seal to the word, that it falleth not to the ground, neither doth the promise of God fail.
It is a dark time now with the church of Christ, which we see everywhere almost suffering and afflicted, whilst the whole earth besides seemeth to be at ease ; Christians also, even beyond others, in their private lot, trysted with very sharp trials, though, I think, suffering may be the least of our fear at this day, while Atheism doth now appear on so formidable a growth, and hath a more threatening aspect, than the rage or violence of men. We see a sad decay likewise on the churches abroad ; religion everywhere under a great consumption, and wearing out, that seemeth to have reached it in its vital parts. Men search after an unusual way of sinning, as if they scorned to be wicked at a common and ordinary rate ; prejudice easily taken up, and entertained against the way of God, whilst the good man doth, alas ! perish, without any affecting observation thereof; the choice and excellent of the earth plucked away, and none to fill their room ; Christians' burials now frequent, but the birth and in-bringing of such to the church rare.
This is indeed a sad subject, and so much the sad- der, that few are found whose eye affecteth their heart ; whose tears and groanings seem to answer such a stroke and ruin, which now is like to fall under our hand. But I shall leave this. Prayer will be the best cure ; and is this day more fit than com- plaining, to turn unto Him who secth the ways of his people, that he may heal them ; and can prevent
TO THE READER. 6
these -with, mercy, who seem least fit for the same. Only, two or three sad remarks of this time, I can- not altogether pass, which indeed are strange symp- toms of the church's present case and distemper.
1. To see men own the doctrine of sanctification, who yet can professedly disown, yea, make it their work, by reproach, to beget a prejudice against the practice thereof. Oh, strange ! to find such as will dip their pen in gall, against a tender and strict walk in religion, and revile it in the power thereof, whilst they do not deny these truths and principles, that necessarily oblige to such a tender practice : who in the most grave concerning duties of Christianity, think it enough to charge their brethren with phari- saical ostentation and hypocrisy, whilst they must con- fess these duties to be unquestionably binding, and that they can be no competent judges of such a challenge, which the great witness of the heart and inward parts of men, can only determine.
2. It is a sad remark also of the time, that Pro- testant writers, professing the reformed religion, shall state themselves in opposition to the most concern- ing grounds thereof, such as imputed righteousness, and justification by faith, which is well called, Arti- culus stantis, et cadentis ecclesice, (The article of a standing, and falling church). I cannot have that charity, that it is from ignorance, but from a height of malice, that some of late reproach the Protestant doctrine, in this great fundamental of justification, as if it pressed believing and resting upon Christ, without respect to works and holiness. I confess, we put not inherent righteousness in the room of im- puted, though we assert each is necessary in their own place, the one in order to our right, the other in order to our actual and full possession of that right :
4 TO THE READER.
yea, that holiness is absolutely necessary, not only necessitate precepti, sed medii (Through necessity of precept, but means also) ; and justifying faith doth necessarily require works, sed non qua, et quatenus justificat, (But not whereby, and in respect of its justi- fying). But sure, if these men grant we are justified by the satisfaction of Christ, they must needs confess it is by imputation, since, if the debtor be acquitted by the cautioner's payment, is it not by the imputation thereof to him 1 Oh sad ! to see some put their in- vention upon the rack, how to wound the church, (yea, a death-wound it would be, if they could reach their end) in that great truth of imputed righteous- ness. But it were best they denied that sixth verse of the fourth chapter to the Romans to be canonic Scripture, which none can read and shift, it being so clear, that the blessed man is there held forth, unto whom God imputeth righteousness without works. Sure that cannot be inherent righteousness, else it were contradictio in adjecto, (Contradiction in that which is added). I profess, these, whatever they pretend, I must look on as adversaries to the Reformed churches, and there is nothing more dangerous than a pirate going forth under a counterfeit flag.
3. Is it not likewise sad, yea, astonishing, to see ministers now in these times, who are the express ambassadors of Christ, given to the church for her edification, stand so directly cross to the very end of their work and ministry ? of many of whom it may be said, that knowingly and deliberately they oppose piety ; — that such should persecute, whose work is to feed, and wound instead of healing ; grieve the spirit of the godly, who should be helpers of their joy ; tli at none are a greater plague to corrupt the church, and cause the sacrifice of the Lord be abhorred, than
TO THE READER. 5
some of- these "who should be the salt of the earth : yea, none more obstruct the treaty of the gospel be- twixt Christ and his church, than ministers, who are called the friends of the bridegroom. Oh ! what a strange and astonishing contradiction may this seem ! But it should be no reproach to that holy and excel- lent calling of the ministry, for of such the Scripture hath expressly warned.
I confess it may be said, No atheist like an unsanc- tiiied minister ; yea, no atheism of so black a dye as theirs, who being still inured with holy things, have yet no sense thereof.
Now in this very dark hour, wherein the church seemeth to have fallen into a death-like pang, and, oh ! many of her children into a sad lethargy, that if we looked in an ordinary way, her wound might seem incurable, there are two great and concerning queries, that I think should much take us up.
The one is, to know what the Scripture speaketh to the church ; what solid ground of encouragement is there held forth ; for truly, if we had not that sure testimony of the word, we might fear religion should quite wear out, and truth perish from the earth. But doth the Scripture speak peace ? all then is well : that, oh, that is sufficient security to put the church's hope beyond farther debate, though men should threaten, though the earth were overturned, and the foundations shaken : this is a determination above men, above all the rules of human policy, yea, above the stars, which frustrateth the tokens of the liars, and maketh diviners mad ; even that revealed coun- sel of God taking place, anent his work and people.
I know, some grave writers of these late times do express their fear, that the horrid wickedness and apostacy of the Gentile church, may at last resolve
6 TO THE READER.
into the Lord's departure, and an universal darkness ; that as the rejection of the Jews made way for the Gentiles' in-coming, so their fall may as remarkably precede that solemn return and restoration of the Jewish church. It is also become the fear of many, that Popery may yet once overrun the whole Re- formed churches before Antichrist's fall. But since these sad thoughts, nor any appearances of the time, are no part of our Bible, we should learn neither to stretch our fears nor expectations beyond that which the Scripture warranteth ; and if the Lord be God, and this his very word, let us adhere to it, and wait for its accomplishment.
A second query, which is indeed no less concerning in such a time, may be anent duty, — what so eminent a hazard of the church, and this great decay of Christianity, doth most pressingly call for. But this is a subject which requireth another pen, and too large to touch with a passing word ; yea, we may say, the great want of these days is not anent the dis- covery of duty, but of the practice of known and discovered duties ; for the Scripture giveth a certain and distinct sound in the darkest time, and hath not left us to doubtful inquiries and debates in this matter. I. shall therefore leave it with a few things only, to be in the general considered.
1. It is sure, that every time hath its present duty, and the wise discerners thereof will know thence what they ought to do ; what work and service the present circumstances of that time call for. Shall the earth have its seasons, wherein things are beautiful ; shall the stork and swallow know their time, and yet Chris- tians not know how to bring forth in their season, and discern the special time and opportunity of duty ?
2. It is also sure, that every Christian, in whatso-
TO THE READER. /
eTer capacity or condition, as lie hath his measure and talent, so hath he some work and opportunity of duty, wherein he may serve the Lord in his genera- tion ; yea, it is not the meanest lot or condition that shutteth that door upon any, that they have no work for God, who desire to be faithful for him. Oh that in this threatening time, when darkness is like to over- spread the church, it were more upon the heart of Christians to strive together, and contend, by a se- rious improvement of their several capacities, to pre- serve religion, and transmit the knowledge of Jesus Christ to the posterity ; that the Christian parent, or master of a family, did witness more that great reso- lution, hi a time when many are drawing back, "But as for me, I and my house will serve the Lord."
3. It is found, that the most eminent and honour- able service of the church, doth usually tryst her in a low and suffering condition : when there hath been but little strength, and many outward disadvantages, then both their call and furniture have been most observable, to confess the truth, to endure for the gospel of Christ, to overcome by the word of his tes- timony ; a piece of service, whereto more prosperous times do not give such an opportunity. Yea, it hath been in such a case, that those who know their God, were made strong to do exploits, (Dan. xi. 32).
4. It doth much concern us to put a high value on the truth, in a time when men must either lose it, or buy it. And, oh ! what a choice purchase is that, which cannot be bought too dear, though at the rate of our liberty, estate, credit, and reputation, yea, with the loss of peace, when it cometh in competition with it \ For it is that great depositum, once delivered to the saints, the inheritance of our children, that way whereby Jesus Christ keepeth intercourse with
8 TO THE READER.
Iris bride on the earth ; yea, the charter of all our mercies, and our hope through eternity.
5. Though every line of divine truth is inestimable, yet it is sure there is a more pressing call for our ad- herence to that truth which is most controverted in the time ; for it is the word of His patience, and the matter of our present testimony : and it is known through all ages, what a singular blessing hath fol- lowed the contending and witnessing of a few for the truth, in a spait* of public defection, to keep it alive, when it was like to be swallowed up ; yea, to effects above rational belief. Unus Athanasius contra totum orbe?n, (One Athanasius against all the world). Many such remarks have not been wanting.
6. I shall only add that which is always necessary and binding, yet we may say, in a time of the church's hazard and suffering is more pressingly called for, even the study of Christian prudence ; a duty convinc- ingly necessary, for regulating of duties, according to the circumstances of the church's case ; which doth so nearly concern the interest and preservation of religion, that I must say, a breach in that concord betwixt zeal and Christian prudence, when there is not some equal respect studied in the exercise of both, cannot but give the church a sore wound. This is indeed a large theme, but I shall only point at three things : 1. In our avoiding and being tender to give offence, not only to keep a distance from evil, but from the smallest appearance thereof. I must say, they are bad casuists, and have little respect to the church's edification, who make it their work, not so much to keep men from sin, as to shew them, quam prope ad peccatum, sine peccato accedere liceat, (How near we may approach sin, without falling into it).
* Flood.
TO THE READER. V
Oh, what a becoming fear is that, not to lay a stum- bling-block in the way of others, to grieve the weak, or confirm such who use to found their prejudice against the truth and way of God, upon the miscar- riage of such as profess the same ! 2. This excellent study of Christian prudence, hath a respect to men's taking offence, as well as their giving it ; to our being sober hi judging ; in personal reflections to cover and hide the infirmities of others, rather than spread them, even for the gospel's sake; yea, to shut as it were our eyes, and cast a mantle on their nakedness, who, overtaken with the violence of some temptation, may yet be serviceable to the church. But especially, this should press into a watchful regard of any breach and rent in the church, and to study a healing spirit so far as is possible, without prejudice to truth. 3. It is also a concerning piece of Christian prudence, how to walk wisely towards those who are without ; when prejudice against the way of God is now in such a growth, to study how we may convince, gain ground, and by christianly, prudent, and tender carriage, conciliate respect to the truth, and thus commend holiness, and these who profess it, to the conscience of men : to study that rule of expediency much in things of themselves warrantable, what fitness and advantage present circumstances may offer or deny, for edification, and promoting that great interest of the gospel in our converse with men.
I shall now cease to trouble you further, only I would premise some few things with a respect to the subject of this following essay. 1. Should we not with wonder and astonishment look on this great record of the Scripture, by which the glorious ma- jesty of God doth speak to men ; yea, doth as cer- tainly communicate his counsel and mind, we may
10 TO THE READER.
say more certainly, than if we had an immediate audible voice from heaven 1 Oh, could we have such ordinary thoughts of this, if we consider how near God cometh therein to us 1 I think if there were but one corner of the earth, though in the remotest parts, where men might go and get a look of so wonderful and important a thing as God's express will, written and sent from heaven to the earth, anent our duty here, and blessedness for ever, should we not think it worth our crossing the sea, and of the greatest expense of time or labour ? It is truly a wonder how we can read and consider the Scrip- ture without wondering. 2. It is a great concern- ment to know that the Scripture hath such a witness as experience, and that there is such a trade and correspondence as this, betwixt the saints and the word, which lietli not in the common road of the world. Oh, what an empty thing should religion be, if it had not this word experience in its grammar ; that secret and sure mark, whereby the Christian knoweth the Scripture is of God ; how thus the Lord hath oft sealed their instruction in a dark plunge ; how life and power, enlivening influences, to the melt- ing of their heart, have oft trysted them there in a very dead frame; and now they know that verily God heareth prayer; now they are persuaded, and have learned by the Cross, that he is indeed a com- forter. Yea, many can shew how by the word, their first acquaintance with the Lord did begin; how some particular truth, like a pickle* of corn thrown in at their heart, by the blessing of the great Hus- bandman, was made to take life and grow. 3. It much conccrneth us to know what an excellent key the Scripture is, to unlock that sealed book of pro-
* Small quantity.
TO THE READER. 11
vidence, and that no other key can fit the same. Many have tried another way, but lost themselves on the search ; and the more they pressed by human ■wisdom, they became the more dark. I truly think there is not a more satisfying discovery within time, than this, — to trace divine truth back, until we see its first breaking forth out of his eternal decree and counsel, who is the Author thereof ; how thence it taketh hold of the word, which is the adequate sign and declaration of his purpose ; and then, how the word taketh hold of his work and providence ; where we may see the face and condition of the church, clearly written out through all the changes of time ; how providence keepeth a certain and steady course, even amidst the most perplexed motions and reelings of the earth ; yea, how all things, even these which would seem most contradictory, run within that straight channel of the word, and cannot go without these bounds. 4. It is the principal and most con- cerning Scripture-promises, that are only touched in this following discourse ; these which carry along with them a clear continued series of the church's condition through time, and shew the most remark- able changes of her lot ; for it is clear, that in di- verse prophecies, and in a different manner, the Spirit doth point at one and the same thing. And truly, it should cause no mistake or prejudice, that we find several of the Scripture-prophecies expressed in such dark terms, since the wisdom of God saw it fit that for a time these truths should be locked up and sealed ; but now, light hath so far broken up with the event, as we may see how very significant and suitable to the matter these most dark and enig- matic terms are. 5. We should upon no account shut our ears where the Scripture is clear, and giveth.
12 TO THE READER.
us ground to know, that the outgoings of the Lord for his people in their deliverance, and for the de- struction of his enemies now in these last times, shall be very glorious ; yea, by some stately and stupen- dous acts of providence, that he shall accomplish his judgments on Antichrist. Neither must we take a prejudice at truth, because of the wild fancies of many who would extend it beyond its bounds, or that near resemblance, which the error of some in this time may seem to have thereto ; for that hath been an old stratagem of the devil, to prejudice the world at some of the truths of God, by setting up a counter- feit thereto.
I shall add no more, only what account is given upon the close of the last argument, of some remark- able passages of providence in the late times ; as herein the author hath some confidence to profess, he did endeavour what could be attained for certainty of the same. And if any circumstance of these rela- tions should be found a mistake, he dare say, before Him who is greater than our conscience, it was not the neglect of serious inquiry ; so he must also pre- mise, the inserting of them, was upon no further in- tent, than to be a witness to that truth of the Lord's eminent appearance for his church in the last days. It would be of great use and profit to the church, that some more fitly qualified, would study a more large collection of this kind. Oh, that this might go forth with a blessing from Him, who by the mean- est thing, can serve himself, and promote the edifi- cation of his church ; and that the Lord would raise some up with much of his Spirit, to make a further search and inquiry in this great and weighty truth !
THE
FULFILLING OF THE SCEIPTUHE,
There are two means by which the blessed majesty of God hath chosen to reyeal himself to the sons of men ; his Word and his Works, — which may be called these two great luminaries, for giving light to the church, though the one be greater, I mean, doth more clearly shine forth, yea, doth communicate light to the other. These, men must not divide, which by so strait a tie the Lord hath joined, and by a mar- vellous correspondence hath set the one over against the other, that it may be easy to see his faithfulness, and the accomplishment of the Scripture therein. And indeed, this is a great concerning truth, that calleth for a serious study, the solid persuasion of which should afford a sweet ground of repose and rest for the soul, though the earth were all in a com- bustion round about, and give a satisfying answer to our solicitous thoughts and fears. Now, this being the intended subject of the following discourse, I shall first touch it a little in the general ; and then, hold forth some more particular grounds, whence it may be clearly demonstrated.
14 THE FULFILLING
I. That the Scripture of God hath a certain ac- complishment here in the world ; and what is to be understood by the same, I shall endeavour to clear in these things which should be considered.
1. This is the very unfolding of the Lord's decree and secret purpose, the bringing forth of his work, now within time, to the view of angels and men, which was before him in the depth of his thoughts, and counsel from eternity; it is an opening up of the sealed book, which we must not understand to be that secret roll of election, and the book of life, wherein the names of the elect are written ; but Liber fatidicus, the sealed book of God's dispensations in the world, shewing out his counsels and designs, which should be brought forth in the after ages of time. For as the Lord did fully comprehend what he was to do, and all that was to befall his church and people, from the beginning to the end, long be- fore there was a beginning, before the mountains were formed, so hath he copied and written out his heart in the word hereanent, wherein he hath most plainly shewed forth, what were his blessed purposes and counsel of old ; and thus, the thoughts of his heart, his word and his works do sweetly agree, and each one wonderfully answers to another; for his work doth bring forth, and accomplish his word, that his decree and counsel from all eternity may take place.
2. The Scripture's accomplishment is the transcript and writing of it over in providence, where we may see and admire how the word doth shine upon all the paths and footsteps of the Lord toward his church in every age, and gives light to the same ; and what an evident reflection his work hath again upon the
OF THE SCRIPTURE. 15
word ; so that through the whole series and course of providence in the earth, we have a most exact por- traiture and image in the Scripture, answering one to another, as face answers to face in the glass, where it may be easy to discern the copy by the principal, and that resemblance which is betwixt the building, and that excellent pattern and model, which is held forth thereof in the word.
3. The accomplishment of the Scripture is the very turning of that which was the object of our faith and contemplation, to be the object of our sense and feeling ; it is the real birth and bringing forth of these truths unto the world in their appointed time and season concerning the church, and particular Christians, which were hid in that womb of the pro- mise, and many dark predictions of the word ; it is such a thing, as giveth the promises and prophecies a visible being, yea, bringeth truth so near within the reach of our senses, that we may even touch as it were, and handle the words of life. Oh, what an excellent interpreter is experience ! Taste and see ; for thus the serious Christian getteth a view of the Scripture and spiritual things, which the most sub- tile and piercing eye of unsancthied school-men can- not reach ; yea, by the practice of truth, nearness to God, and retiring of the soul to him, hath oft got more light in one hour, than others by many days, putting their judgment and invention upon the rack.
4. This is God's own seal, which he putteth to the word to confirm and ratify the same. I do not only mean the secret seal of the Spirit within, but something more external ; that solemn testimony of his works, whereby he doth every day appeal to men's consciences anent his truth ; for his works are very
16 THE FULFILLING
manifest, whereon there is so clear an engravening of his truth and faithfulness, that as the impress and image of the seal is upon the wax, men may also see whose superscription and image that is, which doth appear on such and such passages of providence.
5. This is something we are not to seek only in the extraordinary acts of providence, or in any singu- lar and eminent path of a Christian experience ; nay, it doth shine forth in the smallest and most casual thing that falls out, yea, in every page of that great volume of providence may be clearly read.
6. The Scripture's accomplishment is such a thing as concerns every Christian in his personal case, to which his ordinary experience doth relate, whereof these have a large register. "What of the word hath been certainly proven in the several steps and changes of their life, whose practice doth much lie betwixt improvement of the word, and observation how it is fulfilled, such can witness, how under a spiritual de- cay, to be carnally minded is death ; and when it is well, that great peace they have who love God's law : they have oft found, that in a strait he is a very pre- sent help, and in the way of duty, that it is surely good to draw near to him ; and in the close of their life, can from many remarkable and convincing pro- vidences, declare the truth and faithfulness of God. And truly, whilst I speak here of the Christian's ex-, perience, I think it is sad, and a great short-coming, that there is not a more serious improvement of it for this end, which is a very concerning duty on such who have tasted that the Lord is gracious. And oh, what an excellent addition would this be to their testament, when they are to leave the world, to leave a testimony behind them to the faithfulness of God
OF THE SCRIPTURE. 17
in his word, and thus put their seal to the same, from what they have oft proven by sure experience ; for this should prove a singular help to strengthen others, and spread abroad the fame and good report of re- ligion ; yea, thus one generation should declare the works of the Lord to another, and transmit the me- mory of his goodness to succeeding ages.
7. This is something which not only the Chris- tian's experience doth witness, and hi every time taketh place, but hath also a peculiar reference to these ages and periods of time, wherein such parti- cular truths should have their accomplishment ; for it is true that the prophets of old did not only in their predictions hold forth in general the truth and cer- tainty of these things which should fall out, but they also inquired and searched diligently anent the time ; to what, or what manner of time the Spirit by them did point at (1 Pet. i. 11). For it is truly clear, that a part of the word was under the law to have its pe- culiar accomplishment ; that part of it also, under the Messiah's kingdom, in the days of the gospel, should be fulfilled ; and we find a very concerning part thereof belongs to thir* latter times ; and there is betwixt such periods of time, and revolution of the Church's case, and the bringing forth of such a piece of the Scripture to a performance, a very cer- tain and undoubted connection. It is true, we do not yet well understand (which will be one of the last manifestations the church shall have at the end of time, when the mystery of God is finished) how to sort the event exactly to the word ; but it is sure (and were worthy of our study and observation) how every age hath something of the Scripture peculiar * These.
B
18 THE FULFILLING
thereto, yea, carrieth forward the Lord's work and design a further step. May we not see how one age fulfilleth such a part of the Church's sufferings ap- pointed for her, and puts some great trial and sad persecution over her head, which she was to meet with ; whilst another age carrieth her through an- other change, and giveth her a time of rest and breath- ing ; how such a time bringeth Antichrist forward to his height, and such a following age begins the turn of the Church's case? Yea, every several period and revolution of time, still addeth something to that excellent history of the word and providence, which we have since the beginning, and bringeth forth some- thing further into the world of the Lord's counsel and design about his Church.
8. The accomplishing of the Scripture is such a thing, we are to look after in a special way here, which concerns this militant and travailing condition of the church ; for if the Scriptures were once fully accomplished, and the great mystery of God therein finished, there were then nothing more to do; his work of providence were at an end, and time should be no more. This is something, that is not here per- fected at once, but is still gradually carrying on, and then shall be complete at the resurrection of the just, and second coming of the Lord; which is the last part of canonic Scripture to be made out, when both his work, and his word, and time, shall be all finished together. But while the saints are yet by the way, they have the written word and all these precious promises therein, for present use and encouragement ; for that is its proper work, to take them safe through this labyrinth of the world ; and when it hath brought them to land, it hath no more to do. There will be
OF THE SCRIPTURE. 19
then no more need for a Christian to go to a promise, and adventure upon it ; we shall then no more watch with the watchman, in a dark and stormy night, and hope for the breaking of the day ; faith then shall not be at a stand, how such a word shall be made out, because of invincible difficulties in its way. No, then it hath done its work, and that which is written, shall be swallowed up in that which is seen and enjoyed; all the streams of our encouragement, will then lose themselves in a greater depth. Oh ! then it is finished and done, what all the promises, prophecies, and threatenings of the word were bring- ing forth ; and then, no more need of something as a pledge and earnest in hand, to them who have the fall possession of the inheritance, under whose feet the God of peace hath trod Satan, and all their enemies.
9. I shall add this, The accomplishment of the Scripture is something, which is not only demonstrate to a Christian by sensible influences, and God's secret working with his Spirit, but is made out to the ob- servation of men, in the way of providence ; and not only witnessed by that internal evidence of the Spirit, but by an external testimony, which both rationally holdeth this out to the judgment, and sensibly to the sight and experience. And this is the strongest and most mil of all outward evidences, since the world must shut their eyes if they do not see it; and a Christian must deny what he both seeth and feeleth, if he deny a witness to this.
II. We should consider the accomplishment of the Scripture, as that which is the Lord's peculiar work and design in the world, and that great business which is upon the wheels of providence amidst the various
20 THE FULFILLING
changes and revolutions which are here within time, for bringing about whereof the blessed thoughts of his heart are fixed and unalterable.
This is indeed a grave and serious truth worthy to be more noticed and laid to heart by men, that the glorious providence of God, which goeth throughout the earth, and doth particularly reach all things which come to pass, the smallest as well as the great- est interests of men, in all these, doth move certainly and infallibly for the accomplishing of the Scripture, which is that great thing God hath before his eyes. For it is no personal interests of men how great so- ever they be, that can answer this end; it is some- thing beyond the setting up of kings, or overturning kingdoms and nations, that he doth mind, amidst these various changes which are in the world ; it is some greater thing, than that which we most notice. The Lord thereby designs, how such a party is ad- vanced, and others brought low, for these things come within the reach of his care and providence, in so far as the fulfilling of the Scripture is therein concerned ; the out-making of the promises and threatenings, one syllable whereof he doth more value, than all the crowns and kingdoms of the earth ; yea, will not let it fall to the ground, though it should be at the rate of laying cities and countries desolate ; for it is in this the Lord taketh pleasure, and exerciseth his blessed thoughts, even the bringing about what he hath spoken in his word.
Now to clear this further, I shall hold forth these following grounds, whence it may appear.
1. The fulfilling of the Scripture and written word is so great a thing, and of such concernment, that the blessed majesty of God thought it worthy of a place
OF THE SCRIPTURE. 21
in his heart from all eternity : this was before him in his thoughts and counsels of old ; even that mar- vellous work which should be the after-product, and out-making of his word to his church here within time; and surely was such a plot and contrivance, that as no less than infinite love, wisdom, and power, were required to bring it about, so it was well be- coming the majesty of God, and worthy to be the work of all the three blessed persons of the Trinity. Oh, if we could go down a little to this deep, and see the wonders that are there, we should find that know- ledge, which usually lesseneth our admiration of other things, would heighten it here ; it would be new to us every day, to think how great and marvellous a thing that is which the word is bringing forth.
2. It is upon this, even the performance of the word, that the present encouragement and after blessedness of the saints do lie, for the great inte- rest of the Church is adventured upon the word, and embarked with it, which should be lost ; yea, their stock and treasure which is laid up in heaven, and all that a Christian is worth, which is laid up in the promise, were then perished, if the Scripture should want an accomplishment. The godly man hath then run and laboured in vain, and those who are fallen asleep in Christ have died in a sad delusion : provi- dence would be like the work of the foolish builder, who begun, and knew not how to finish. Oh, how highly then is the Lord concerned in fulfilling of his word, that he may perfect what concerns his people ; and having surely paid the price, put them also in possession !
3. There is yet more than the interests of angels and men, yea, than heaven and earth are worth, that
22 THE FULFILLING
depends upon the out-making of the Scripture ; the glory of God, and especially, the praise of that great attribute, his Faithfulness, which he will have no less shine forth in the performance of his word, than his power and wisdom in this great fabric of the uni- verse, and these marvellous productions of nature. For He hath magnified his word above all his works ; therefore is his heart greatly set upon this, even the bringing to pass what he hath spoken, which if in the least it should fail, were no less than to make God a liar, and falsify his word, who is through all the church known by this blessed name, " The God of truth."
4. We should consider this, as that great trust which is put in his hand, who only in heaven and earth was found worthy to open the book of God's decrees and counsels, and loose the seals thereof; a trust which the Lord did not adventure upon the an- gels, the smallest promise being such, as requires no less than an omnipotent power, and the arm of Jeho- vah to bring it about : for which end, he whom the Father hath anointed, is gone forth as a mighty man who rejoiceth to run his race, that he may perform his word, and through this great design in the admi- nistration of providence, about his church and people, which he will not cease or give over, until the mystery of God in the Scripture, and all that was spoken by the Prophets, be put to a close, when Heaven and Earth, at the pouring out of the last vial, shall give that solemn shout and exclamation, It is finished! it is finished / Oh, if this were once fully perfect, there would be no more to do ! Then, the winter were past, and the summer come. The song of Moses and the Lamb should be heard, because the Bride hath made
OF THE SCRIPTURE. 23
herself ready. Then let all the trees of the wood rejoice, the hills break forth into singing, and all that is therein be glad, because the Scripture, and the great design thereof, is fully finished, and the day of the perfect liberty of the sons of God is come.
5. The accomplishment of the Scripture is of such concernment, that nothing can be done until it be once finished. For this, time must wait; the sun must keep its course, and the ordinances of the heaven continue as they are : the world is but a scaffold un- til this building be perfected. For this, the grave doth still retain her prisoners, and the dust of the saints must yet rest in hope ; the creation still groan- eth, and the marriage supper of the Lamb is deferred : the cry of the souls under the altar get not a full return, until all that is written in the word be ful- filled.
6. We should consider, that this is the great thing which the Lord this day is carrying on, even the ac- complishment of his word, for this is most brought upon debate, of any thing besides ; the world chal- lengeth it, and the hearts of the godly do oft call it in question ; the atheist scoffs at it, and saith, Where is the promise of his coming 1 There are often to appearance insuperable difficulties in the way of its performance ; therefore doth the Majesty of God so much concern himself hi this, for bringing about of which he is in a holy way restless, and providence hi an incessant motion, until he hath done that which he hath spoken in his word. It was for this cause that the Scripture might be accomplished, that the Word was made flesh, and he who counted it no rob- bery to be equal with God, did take upon himself the form of a servant : this is of such account hi his eyes,
24 THE FULFILLING
that what time he speaks concerning a nation or people, ere it come not to pass, he will rather put forth omnipotency, for the working of miracles, and change the very course of nature : for this, he will make the deep dry, make a way through the Red Sea, and cause Jordan stand as in heaps, that he may keep promise to his people : if there be no way for bringing about his word, but through a sea of blood, and over the bones and carcases of his enemies, he will do it, and bring it to pass, though walled cities, and the sons of Anak, mighty and strong, should stand in the way thereof. Abraham's old age, and Sarah's dead womb, must not frustrate this. If the promise of the church's restoration cannot be made out without a wonder shewed upon dry bones scat- tered at the grave's mouth, this shall not be wanting ; when God saith, he will bring down the enemies of his church, if the dust of the ground should arise, down they must come. How many great designs of men hath this blessed design (that the counsel of the Lord may stand) crushed and broken, so that their work and counsel hath been as the spider's web, when it stood cross to this end ! The godly need not fear, that He be not a present help in time of trouble ; for he will keep his word herein, though the earth should be overturned, and the mountains cast into the midst of the sea. Oh, who hath resisted his counsel ! What are all these vicissitudes and changes here in the world, but making way for the Scripture's ac- complishment % With what desire doth he move towards this end % So that, as in Zeeh. vi. 8. the in- struments by him appointed for executing his judg- ment and the threatenings of the word, it is said, they have quieted his Spirit. His decrees are mountains of
OF THE SCRIPTURE. 25
brass, which are unchangeable, the thoughts of his heart take place in all generations ; therefore the word which, is gone forth out of his mouth shall not return in vain, but the pleasure of the Lord shall prosper in his hand.
III. The accomplishment of the Scripture is a truth, very clear and manifest, whereof none can pre- tend ignorance, if they do not shut their eyes, and force their own light, from the fear of such a dis- covery ; for the obstruction doth not lie in the dark- ness of the object, or that men cannot see this, since we have it so clearly held forth in great and legible characters : nay, we must say, the cause is culpable ; there is much of the will in it, which renders such an ignorance without excuse. Oh that this should be so little looked after, a matter of such near and weighty concernment, when there needs not another demonstration, but Come and see the works of the Lord through the earth ; for he hath here so far condescended to his people, to bring the truth near, that they even feel and grip the same ; yea, doth in a manner say to every one, as to Thomas, " put in your hands.' ' Touch the word, and truth thereof, and be no longer faithless; taste but and see, that the Lord is good, and that he is true in what he hath spoken.
We are indeed to look after a more clear, and full discovery of this truth, the nearer the church is to the end of time. There is a labyrinth as it were of turnings and windings, through which we may see the word oft brought, so as we lose sight thereof, and are ready to stagger anent its performance ; but it is as true, that the most eminent confirmations the saints ever had of this truth, have been after greatest
26 THE FULFILLING
shakings thereanent ; yea, the Lord hath in all ages so visibly sealed his word by its performance, that we may say, Can he be a Christian, and a stranger to this in his experience ; and a serious on-looker on providence, and the dispensations of the time wherein he lives, and a stranger to it in his ob- servation ; yea, can any be so wholly brutish, not to discern a thing so clear, that ofttimes these who run may read 1
But to speak a little more to this, I shall here point at some things, that may shew how manifest this truth is.
1. Is it not very clear, which we see every day brings to light ; a truth so conspicuous, both in God's ordinary way with his church, and in the se- veral steps and passages of a Christian's life \ For these mercies which bring the word and promise to pass, are new every morning, and cry aloud, if we could hear, Great is His faithfulness ; this is indeed tried. And needs there more, to convince a blind man, that his sight is restored to him, but that he certainly seeth ? Sure they never wanted confirma- tions here, who do but seriously seek to be confirmed.
2. Is it not a clear truth, which not only is found upon the exactest trial, but is witnessed by such who ever tried it in their most pressing straits and ex- tremity % For it is in the darkest night this truth hath most brightly shined ; and these more remark- able venturous acts of faith, have they not still brought forth most convincing experiments thereanent 'l. We may say, there is none can give a better account of the performance of the word than those who against hope, have believed in hope, that this never made them ashamed
OF THE SCRIPTURE. 27
3. Is it not also clear, thereof there are such solemn extraordinary confirmations in all ages % For that His name is near, his wondrous works declare. I am sure no time could ever deny its witness, how by great convmcing providences, both of judgment and mercy, it hath been so sealed, as hath forced athe- ists to keep silence ; no time wherein the church had not cause to erect a pillar, and engrave thereon, We have seen with our eyes the great and wondrous works of the Lord, by which he hath witnessed the truth of his word.
4. Is it not a manifest truth, which even in the most strange, and dark footsteps of providence, so clearly shineth forth % These which at the first look are an astonishment, and hard to be understood, yet, after, most clearly verify the Scripture, that whilst the Lord's way goeth out of our sight, yea, out of the ordinary road of his working, through a laby- rinth of turnings and cross dispensations, yet at length, it doth evidently clear, and disentangle itself ; which men may oft see break forth, as the sun out of a dark cloud, that shineth the more brightly the more it was obscured.
5. Is it not very clear, which can be demonstrated by such visible effects in these great changes of the world \ For the fulfilling of the Scripture is not a thing hid in a corner, but oft published on the house tops, that men may see legibly written upon king- doms and nations, the desolate ruins, and devastation of cities, and houses great and fair which are made to be without inhabitants, so as those who go by may clearly read the cause, and bear that witness, " Lo, there is sin visibly punished, according to the word."
28 THE FULFILLING
6. How clear is this, which we have so evidently drawn out, and acted over in a Christian walk % For what else is the spiritual conversation of such, these visible effects and evidences of the grace of God all along a Christian's way, but a visible convincing wit- ness to the performance of the word? Hath not such, a very audible echo and resound to that which is the great drift and scope of the Scripture ; where men may see the Bible turned over into a practical history, written forth, and acted on the heart and con- versation of the saints, as on a stage or theatre ? — ■ the word living, speaking, moving, and clearly dif- fusing itself through all the veins, as it were, and conduits of a Christian's life ; so that if the truth and reality of the grace of God be a thing manifest and unquestionable, we must also see therein the real per- formance of the Scripture.
7. I shall add, we may clearly see how one piece of the Scripture, is nothing else but the punctual fulfilling and accomplishment of the other ; how that which was shadowed out by dark types under the law, and held in a prophecy through the Old Testa- ment, is written before our eyes in a plain and real history in the New Testament, and that the gospel is only a fulfilling of the law and the prophets.
IV. Though it is very manifest, and by undeniable proofs can be demonstrated, that the Scripture hath a real accomplishment, and doth certainly take place in the constant course of providence here in the world, that I am sure, if men do not darken them- selves, they can be no strangers to such a thing, yet we must say, this truth which most nearly concerns us, is to the most of men (even such who seem to give a large assent to the word) a mystery, and a
OF THE SCRIPTURE. 29
dark riddle. There are few who do but inquire if there be such a thing, if the promises and threatenings have indeed a certain out-making ; few do seriously ponder the providences of God, in which the truth and faithfulness of the word shine forth, that they may thereby be further confirmed. We see that to many (alas ! too many), the great concernments of the law, and everlasting happiness, are a trivial and an impertinent business; this is a truth the world doth pass without regarding. Such as sport at re- ligion, when they come to earnest here, dare not stand before this discovery; it cone erneth them much to reconcile their principles with their practice; their fear begetteth hatred, and both put their wit and in- vention on the rack, how to dispute away any re- mainder of a conscience, to imprison their light, and under the pretext of reason, run down godliness, and the absolute necessity thereof. Yea, besides, doth not sensuality, wherein many wallow and steep them- selves, so dull and drown the soul, put such an in- terposition of the earth betwixt them and this truth, as wholly darkens it 1 And, oh how sad ! that many having a large profession to be Christians, scarce ever knew what it is to put the word to an essay and trial in the concernments of their life, to have their light followed with experience, wherein the very truth and reality of religion lie.
To clear this, I shall hold forth some things, which may shew how little this truth of the Scrip- ture's accomplishment is known or studied by the most of men.
1. The abounding of so much atheism ; that there are so many, who not only disclaim the practice of that religion they seem to profess, but do state themselves
30 THE FULFILLING
in most direct opposition to the rules and principles thereof. Those to whom the Scripture is but as a ro- mance, yea, who do only converse therewith, to prove their wit and parts in impugning the same ; who avowedly mock at the judgments and providences of God ; — I confess, these may be reckoned monsters, a very prodigy in the time wherein they live, though, alas ! they are not the least part of the world. And which is strange, we see the most horrid atheists do usually abound, where the light of the gospel hath most shined ; the savage places of the earth bring forth no such monstrous births, as are hatched within the visible church; for thus the judgment of God putteth a blacker dye on them than others. Oh, what a terrible sound would the fulfilling of the Scrip- ture have in men's ears, if they once came to have serious thoughts thereof; since they cannot admit this, but they must certainly read their own sentence of death, which a few days shall put in execution ; and if the Scripture be true, they are then unspeak- ably miserable.
2. That indifFerency which we see amongst men about religion, and the most concerning truths of Scripture, doth shew how little this is known or laid to heart. Whence there is such a generation, who do not professedly deny the Scripture, yet can turn it over into a school-problem, and wonder that men should engage so far upon it. It is not that it is hid from them ; but they truly choose to hide themselves from it, as more suitable to that interest they drive at, that the truth of God should be rather a matter of opinion than of faith ; a thing which they would dispute, but not believe. But, oh, what other thoughts would a clear sight of this, cause, that with-
OF THE SCRIPTURE. 31
in so few days, the truths and threat enings of the word shall be sad earnest, the fulfilling whereof no sharp- ness of wit, nor subtile arguments, will be able to evade ]
3. That there is so much barren theory of divine truths in the world, with so little serious Christian diligence, doth it not sadly witness, how small ac- quaintance men have with this truth % Whence we see so great a part of those who professedly acknow- ledge the word, and are daily conversing with it, yet can give no other account thereof but report ; so many that can satisfyingly discourse of the Scripture, and could never put their seal to it, that God is true therein. "Whence are so many great school divines, and able ministers for parts, such visible atheists in their way and practice 1 Is it not, that they really judge divinity and religion rather a science, and matter of speculation, than a matter of sense and feeling, which men should more live than speak, and which cannot be known without experience, the true end of knowledge? But, oh, this cannot be found in books ; men will not meet with it in a throng of choicest notions ; it confoundeth the wise, and dis- puter of this world, whilst the meanest and most sim- ple Christian oft knoweth more, than those of great- est parts.
4. The great hypocrisy which is in the world, I mean within the visible church, doth too clearly shew that this truth is little thought on, or laid to heart. For what is that false show and appearance, which we may say is not a sin, but the very sinfulness of sin 1 Is it not the height of atheism, and a real contradiction in their practice to this, that the scrip- ture of God is true, and will have an unquestionable
32 THE FULFILLING
accomplishment ? Oh, could any be so monstrously irrational, to drive this poor plot, how to appear that which they are not ; to be at such pains to act the part handsomely of a serious Christian ; to personate his tears and grief, his spiritual frame, his zeal for God, if he did think gravely on this truth, and did believe the threatenings of the word, that they will surely take place, and be within a little no compli- ment, but sad earnest, and that he is every hour standing under that Scripture woe against hypocrites? I am sure it would make his very hair stand upright, his joints loose, and his thighs smite upon one an- other, could he but seriously think upon this.
5. These unwarrantable ways, which in a time of trial men take for their escape, may witness this, that the word they do not judge a sure ground to adventure on. Whence is there hesitation in suffer- ing times, from that day many taking their leave of Christ, who have rather chosen sin than affliction ? Oh, is it not that they judge the testimony of the God of truth is not sufficient security to carry them through such a strait, and are not fully persuaded that it must come to pass what he hath promised ? For if this were, they should reckon it their greatest safety, to embark their interest on so sure a ground, and with much quietness repose their soul, and dis- burden their care, by putting it over on the word.
6. "What doth the frequent discouragement and uncomfortable walk of the people of God speak forth? Doth it not witness how little they are in earnest with this great truth of the Scripture's accomplish- ment, or established thereanent 1 What mean these distrustful fears and perplexed complaints, if their eyes be but open to know, they have such a well,
OF THE SCRIPTURE. 33
as the promise of God at their hand? How is it, that the smallest straits are so puzzling, and ready to outwit them ; that they so usually stumble at the cross ; and as things from without do appear, that their encouragement is made to ebb and flow % Is not here the cause, that they stagger at the promise, whilst probabilities, in some visible way, do not go along for its performance \ It is truly easy to have some sweet notions of faith at a distance ; but whilst the trial comes near, upon such a close approach, that there is not another way, but to put the whole stress of their particular interest on the word, and on it alone, many are then at a stand, because they are not thoroughly assured, that though the earth should be overturned, there is an absolute necessity for the promise of God to take place.
Now, from these things, may it not appear, that this grave truth of the Scripture's accomplishment is but little known or studied % I confess we may think on it with astonishment, how a matter so nearly concerning, is not more our work. There are, indeed, many things worthy to be known, but our short life can scarce allow time, or give leisure for the study thereof. But, oh ! this, though we had only two days to live, I think might require the one, — to be sure and persuaded anent the truth of that whereon our heaven and eternal blessedness lieth, to which we must lay the dead-grip, when we are in the passage, at that strange step betwixt time and eternity. Oh, what a wonder, how rational souls, who walk on the border of the greatest hope and fear imaginable, can yet be so unconcerned thereanent ! Such serious thoughts might force men to retire, and go sit alone ;
c
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and truly these things, gravely considered, may seem strange and hard to reconcile :
1. That there is such a thing as the very Word and Testimony of God, this day upon record, where- with we have so much to do, which doth offer itself to men's trial and exactest search, and yet we put it so little to that touchstone, that we may know it upon another account than report or hearsay.
2. How in a matter of such high importance, as salvation through all eternity, and the ground of this hope, men should take the truth on an implicit faith, or satisfy themselves with a common assent thereto, as though it were enough to witness our believing the same, because we did never doubt or call it in ques- tion. I am sure men would not be so lax, and so easy to satisfy, in the most common interest they have here in the world.
3. How can men render to others a reason of their hope when it is inquired, who did never ask a reason of this at themselves \ Or will those seal the truth with their blood, who never had it sealed upon their heart by experience %
4. Whence is it that men can have comfort in Scripture, who are not well grounded in the faith thereon Indeed, those who are solidly persuaded anent the truth, and its certain out-making, may have much joy and peace ; whilst they know the ground of their confidence, can bear up any stress or burden they lay upon it. And for what end did the Lord witness the certainty of the word by two immutable things, wherein it is impossible for him to lie, but that from so sure and strong a ground, his people might have strong consolation \
CF THE SCRIPTURE. 35
5. How can any tliink to adventure their immortal soul upon that, whereon they fear to venture an out- ward interest ; or put over their dearest things into His hand and keeping, who could never say, they know in whom they believed %
6. May it not seem strange, that men can believe a certain performance of the word and promises, and not be more deeply affected therewith 1 Oh, is this true] Shall it surely come to pass, and not one jot thereof fall to the ground % And should it not cause us to awake in the night, and keep us more com- pany? Ought we not to think ourselves at a loss that day, wherein we take not a turn in the medita- tion of divine truth, if we be sure that these must take place 1
7. I would add, if this be indeed the Scripture of God which surely hath an accomplishment, oh, how are we so little Christians % Why doth men's walk so sadly jar with so great a hope 1 What manner of persons should those be, who are persuaded that with- in a little these heavens must pass away as a scroll, the elements melt with fervent heat, and the earth be burnt up \ I think if this will not press home on men to be serious and diligent, they must be in a very sad lethargy.
V. The accomplishment of Scripture is a most clear, and undeniable witness of its divinity, that it is His word, who is not like man to He, or the son of man to repent ; and hath this as its distinguishing character, that not one syllable thereof falls to the ground. This is the undoubted privilege of God, and of him alone, to foresee things contingent which are many ages after to fall out, and have no dependence and natural causes. And truly, this
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may be a convincing argument, yea, we may say* of all external testimonies, it is the greatest. But it is strange to think what a generation there is who can sport at the Scripture, and question the truth thereof, who yet did never once seriously inquire if such a thing be true, else so clear a witness might stare them in the face. Such a party we should look on with compassion. It is also, sad to think at how poor a rate far below their allowance, many of the saints do here live, because there is so little of that excellent and more noble spirit, to search the Scripture for their further comfort and establishment thereby.
It is true, this blessed record doth bear witness to itself, and is known by its own light, whereon there is such a visible impress of the glorious God, such convincing marks of its true descent, as may throughly shew whose it is, and how far it exceeds all human invention ; and thus, by a clear manifestation of the truth, doth commend itself to men's consciences, as a safe ground whereon they may repose their soul. It is also clear, how wonderfully the Scripture hath been preserved, and the original copies thereof kept through all ages, that whatever small variation there may ap- pear as to some Apiculi, which in some places have caused divers readings, yet, in any necessary or sav- ing truth, the greatest critics will confess they do not in the least vary. And it is known (wherein we are to adore that special providence of God) that the Jewish church, to whom this sacred depositum was delivered, did with such exact and singular care look to the same, even in the least tittle or letter thereof, this being the great work and study of the Mazorites, from one age to another, to see to the preserving of that great record, from being in the least vitiated or
OP THE SCRIPTURE. 37
corrupted. And the greatest adversaries of tlie truth cannot possibly deny that agreement betwixt these many original copies, in the whole substance ; which may be very convincing to the world. And do not men see, how marvellous the whole frame of the Scripture is ; — what a correspondency betwixt all the parts thereof, that nothing in it doth in the least vitiate the proportion and beauty of the work, but all along an evident tendency to advance holiness, and conform the soul to God ? With a wonderful consent and harmony in answering to this great end, we see the simplicity and plainness of its style, yet backed with a convincing majesty, and authority upon the conscience ; yea, besides, it hath been attested by miracles that were great in themselves, famous in their time, transmitted to the church in after ages, with unanswerable evidences of their truth, that not only the witness of the word, but other pressing and rational grounds, may let us see there could be no deceit or imposture therein.
These are a great testimony to the truth ; but I may say, on very sure ground, that next to that great witness of the Spirit, there is no argument more con- vincing to deal atheism a stroke, and throughly sa- tisfy an exercised spirit, that may be troubled anent this great thing, the authority of the Scripture, than a clear discovery of its performance, whilst under the assault of such a temptation. If this be the very word of God, they may but retire within, and then turn their eyes abroad in the world, to see what a visible impress of the word is stamped on every piece of the work and providence of God. Now, for farther clearing, I would offer these few things :
1. First the accomplishment of the Scripture is a
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very public testimony from heaven to its divinity, whilst the Lord by his works through the earth which are done in the view of angels and men, doth solemnly avow that this is his word : for we must say, his work within on the hearts of his people, and without about the church, is such, whereat men, yea, all the magi- cians of the earth, may stand amazed, and confess that nothing less than a divine Almighty power can ac- complish the same.
2. This, gives in the witness of all the generation of the righteous, who from the beginning have pro- ven the truth thereof; yea, sealed by the blood of many excellent Christians, some of whom, though they could not well dispute for it, yet had so strong a demonstration of the truth within, as made it an easy work to die for the same.
3. This doth clearly shew, that the Scripture is an unchangeable rule of righteousness, that alters not, but takes place in all ages ; whence such as are wise to bring providence into the word, and compare the experience and remarks of one time with another, may have a great reach, and be thus led in a sure path as to the foreseeing of events.
4„ This also doth demonstrate, that it is His word who doth rule and guide the world, and hath a so- vereign dominion over the same ; whilst we may here see such remarkable events which, both in the present and hi former times, have fallen out, as may shew a power that can reach the greatest with a stroke, shake the most established kingdoms, and even over the belly of insuperable difficulties accomplish the word : yea, that surely the Spirit of the wheels which moves them, is from Him whose word this is. For it is not more clear that these curtains of the heavens are stretched
OF THE SCRIPTURE. 39
forth over the earth, than that the Scripture is stretched out oyer the whole work and frame of pro- vidence, so as all the motions and steps thereof, even of the most casual things that fall out, have a visible tendency to accomplish these ends which the Scrip- ture hath held forth.
5. This clearly sheweth it must be His word, who hath foreseen all things that were to befall the church, and the various changes and adventures of every Christian's life through time ; whilst it is so wonder- fully shaped and suited to every new trial of the church, as if intended only for that time, and to every case of a godly man, as though it had been alone written for him.
6. This also sheweth, that He who is the author of the Scripture, and hath framed that admirable piece, must have some immediate correspondence with the spirit of man, knoweth our sitting down and ris- ing up ; yea, doth search the heart and the reins : for experience can tell how the word is directed to the heart ; doth reach the most inward contrivances there- of ; doth so clearly reveal and open up a Christian to himself, that we may say of a truth, he is the God of the spirits of all flesh, and one greater than our heart, whose it is.
7. I shall further add, the fulfilling of the Scripture in the experience of the saints, doth shew it is not a dead letter, but hath power and life ; and that there must be an enlightening, quickening Spirit, that surely goeth along with the same. This clearly demon- strates something above words, yea, above nature in the written word, that can make such a change upon the soul, give life to the dead, open the eyes of the
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blind ; yea, can turn a lump of earth, that formerly tended downward, now, without any violence, to move from a principle of life towards God, as the sparks fly upward.
VI. The accomplishment of the Scripture is a most pleasant and truly delectable subject, worthy of our serious thoughts and study. For here is held out the highest truth for the judgment to contemplate, the truth and faithfulness of God in the word ; and here is also the greatest good for the affections to embrace and delight in, as that wherein our whole happiness is certainly wrapt up. It is undeniable, that it is the godly man who knoweth best what true and solid pleasure is ; which he doth not lose, by turning his heart from the creature to God, but maketh a blessed exchange. Oh, how far do the joy and delights of the soul exceed those of the senses ; and the delights of a Christian, how far do they surpass those of a na- tural man, even in his best estate ! And surely, this precious study of the daily performance of the word, is one of those paths of pleasure, which would bring in more solid joy to the spirit in some few hours, than some years' wallowing in the carnal delights of the flesh, which is but as pleasure in sport, but quickly turneth to grief in earnest. It is one of the great mistakes of the world, that religion tends so much to sadden and disquiet the soul : nay, it is certainly the want of this ; because we are so little truly religious. When we scurf over our duty, and take but a passing look of the ways and work of God in the world, then it is indeed very affrighting and unpleasant ; but when in a more Christian way, we do seriously look there- upon, and get our heart near God, taking the word along with us, oh, how delightful and ravishing a
OF THE SCRIPTURE. 41
sight will this be ! I truly think though there were not a command, though it were no duty, nor such advantage in the study of this grave truth, yet that joy and refreshment which the soul would find in such a diligent search, in going down into this blessed deep, should invite us thereto.
But when I speak of this, what a sweet and de- lightful subject the performance and out-making of the Scripture is, it must be understood, that it is so only to the saints. And it is no wonder that the world keeps at such a distance from it, for this is a truth they cannot bear ; they hate it, which, as Mi- caiah, doth prophesy always hard things, and earrieth a message of death to them; which doth foretell their approaching ruin, and should cause them all tremble ; the knowledge whereof must increase their sorrow and disquietness, yea, cause them cry out, " Oh, do not torment us before the time," for they are surely undone and ruined, if the scripture of God be true, and hath a performance. But oh, what pleasant and refreshful tidings doth this carry to a Christian ! what a sweet view doth he here get of the inheritance, and blessed estate of the saints, which may cause such an exclamation, " How great is that goodness which is laid up for those that fear thee I"
To demonstrate this, I shall hold out some things, from which we may see, how delightful a subject the accomplishment of the Scripture is for a Christian to study.
1. Serious converse with this grave truth leadeth forward to practice, and thus helpeth to bring down theory to experience, which is the most sweet and de- sirable of all other demonstrations, that we can have of the truth of the Scripture ; and maketh our light
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clear, and pleasant to the taste, turning the exercise of our judgment, and reason thereanent, into sense and feeling. We are then made to see what a dif- ference there is, betwixt that discovery which a spiritual man (whose religion is his practice) hath of this, and the cold winter-light of natural understand- ing, that hath no heat or warmness therewith ; which is as great a difference, as betwixt hearing of such a thing by report, and seeing it with our eyes.
2. This blessed study, how the Scripture hath cer- tain accomplishment, would help us to read the word with another kind of pleasure. Oh, what representa- tion should then the truths and promises thereof haye to the godly man ! It would be as one going in to look after his charters, and the great things therein contained, which he doth not in the least debate or question, since they are past the seals, and fully rati- fied ; and now considereth all which is promised, as his own, which he looked in former times upon, but as a common thing, whilst he made not earnest of the certainty thereof, and what an interest he had in the same. Oh, when he readeth that promise of a new heaven and earth, and that glorious estate which abideth the saints, he cannot turn his eyes and thoughts so easily off it ; but is made to stand, and wonder that so great a thing, that will make such a marvellous change in his condition, is even shortly to come to pass. How sweet and pleasant is it for such, to turn over these promises, who can set to his seal, and bear this witness, that he hath as really proven the truth thereof, by sure experience, as he knoweth he hath a real being ! Surely, the Bible is another thing to these, than it is to the great part of men, who only make it the subject of their contemplation.
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3. In this blessed study, we should have much laid to our hand to observe, and our observation made sweet and pleasant to us ; for there we might see, how all the paths of the Lord towards his people, are mercy and truth. This would give us a refreshful diary of providence, how in such a plunging strait we found the word sensibly sealed ; what observable confirma- tions we have had therewith, at such a time, and hi such a condition, the after-recounting of which in an hour of trial, or in the evening of our life, would ex- ceed these greatest pleasures the men of this world can have in looking over their gold and greatest treasures, which for many yep„rs they have been lay- ing up.
4. In the serious study of the daily accomplishing of the Scripture, we should have a most satisfying view and prospect of what God is doing up and down the earth, what purposes and designs he hath on foot, and how things here beneath do work together for carrying on of the same ; we should see what an ex- cellent and curious piece of work this frame of provi- dence is, which the more it is considered, it will be the more a wonder; how perfect in all its various colours, what an observable concurrence there is there; how several discords which we see here, do yet agree with one consent, for the completing of God's design, which is still going on. And whilst we think there mustabe some disorder amongst the wheels, we are made after to see, that this confusion was an excellent step of providence, confounding the wisdom of men, every piece of His way being so knit to one another, as discovers to such who make this blessed truth their most serious study, a most rare contexture be- yond the reach and up-taking of the greatest artists that
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ever were. Here also we might go up to that watch- tower of Christian observation, and from thence, take a grave look of God's way, and lay his work in the world to the Scripture, as the measuring line ; where we should see (and find the sight thereof very plea- sant) how the word every day takes place, doth issue through all the veins and arteries of providence, each line whereof is so exactly drawn, as by a pencil in some skilful hand, to that great examplar of the Scrip- ture. Here we might discern these eminent examples of judgment and mercy, that in every age are set be- fore us ; how wicked men prosper for a time, yet have a dreadful issue, and are suddenly cast into destruc- tion ; they spread as a green bay-tree, and within a little their place cannot be found ; how the godly are oft sore afflicted, yet flourishing as the palm-tree, and *the more they , are depressed, the more they grow ; how the enemies of the church are oft lifted up for a sorer fall, and the church brought low, in order to her greater enlargement; howjudgmentfindeth out sinners, and is oft exactly proportioned in measure and kind to the sin ; and on the other hand, how in- tegrity is sore tossed oft, yet still falleth upon its feet ; and overclouded, that it may shine more brightly after : how the threatenings of the word do visibly over- take kingdoms and nations, bring down great houses, cause those brought up in scarlet embrace the dung- hill, and let not the hoary head of cruel and wicked men go oft into the grave in peace. And again, to con- sider how the Lord forsaketh not his people, but shew eth respect to their way ; the good man walketh in his integrity, and his seed after him is blessed. Oh, how sweet an exercise were this for a Christian, even to lose himself in !
OF SCRIPTURE. 45
5. From thence we might, in a great measure, dis- cern what of the night it is with the church ; if there be any evidences that it is near day, and what such a sinful case doth threaten : we should be skilful to feel the church's pulse, and thereby find what symp- toms there are of life or death ; and perceive a dark cloud of judgment casting up, when it is but like an handbreadth. Surely, this study should make us wise to know the times, and what we ought to do therein ; for amongst those various events which fall out in every age, the Lord's way is constant with itself, and with his truth, if we be right on-lookers.
6. Here we should have a most pleasant and clear view, how the scripture of God comprehendeth the whole state of the church, from the beginning to the end of time ; that it is a most full and perfect register of all the vicissitudes and alterations which are to go over her head, whilst in a militant condition ; and doth also most exactly point out these occurrences and remarkable events, which fall out in the ordinary way and course of providence, that we may read them as evidently in the word, as we see them with our eyes fall out in the world. For in following this study, we should clearly see how the Scripture bring- eth the church to light, out of the womb of an eternal decree ; and doth trace it from the first promulgation of the gospel after the fall, through these dark times before the flood, whilst it was but in families; and through that long trial in Egypt, and all its settled and flourishing condition in Canaan ; and carrieth her forward through all the several changes of her case, under her following decay, and in the times of the captivity, even to the manifestation of Christ, and dawning of the gospel. And as it thus taketh in
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within its reach the whole estate, and the special events which did befall the church under the law, so we may see how the Scripture also followeth the church, through the whole time of the gospel ; and bringeth her as a grain of mustard seed, from a day of small things, until it bring her to perfection ; taketh her, as it were, by the hand from her infancy, and goeth with her through all the turnings of her condi- tion; through that long and dark night of Antichrist's reign ; pointeth clearly out her condition, and various assaults that she should endure in that time, and that blessed victory which she should after have, though not all at once, but gradually, over her enemies ; and that the word and the church do never part, but one walketh step for step with the other, until it bring her safe to land, and, as it were, put her off its hand and guard, at the coming of Christ.
7. This would also help us to sweet thoughts, and give us matter of a song in the saddest night of the church's condition, when we see how God's great de- sign in the world, is the accomplishing of the Scrip- ture ; and know, that his ends which he hath held forth therein cannot be frustrated. It would serve to silence all our complaints, with wondering at God's way, and triumphing in the works of his hands. We should not then be afraid of evil tidings : a stormy time would not outwit us, being persuaded, that though the earth should be overturned, it shall be surely well with the righteous ; the church must nourish, and all her enemies be found liars, because He is faithful that hath promised, whose word will as surely come to pass, as the sun doth return after a dark night.
VII. It doth now more specially concern the godly
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in these latter times, to study this great truth of the accomplishment of the Scripture, and set about a serious inquiry, and search therein, as a truth that shall yet be in a further measure discovered and opened up, the nearer the church is to the end of time, which may thus appear :
1. Herein is the word express, that one part of the Scripture, which from former ages was sealed up, should in the latter days be clear and easy to under- stand, (Dan. xii. 9). The seal is there put on, " but go thy way Daniel, for these words are closed, and sealed to the time of the end." But we have that bar taken off: "Seal not the sayings of the prophecy of this book, for the time is at hand," (Rev. xxii. 10) : because then the time did draw near, to which a more full discovery, and opening up of the Scripture was reserved, and a more large manifestation of the Spirit beyond former ages. Now, by the last days, we are not only to understand the whole time of the gospel, though it is thus termed in the Scripture, but the latter part of these last times, which is more especially pointed at, even the close and evening of time ; that last epoch and period of prophetic chronology, to which a greater accomplishment of Scripture prophecies is reserved.
2. This also is expressly promised, that in the latter days the church shall have a more full discovery of this truth, how the Scripture is verified : " Many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased," (Dan. xii. 4) ; which increase, as it clearly pointeth at the last times, and that bright day the church shall have, when Israel shall be brought in to Christ, it doth also point at, and promise some greater light, and a more full opening up of the mysteries of the
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word, and fulfilling thereof. For the former part of the chapter sheweth, that increase of knowledge doth relate to those things which were before sealed. We wait and believe the further accomplishment of this promise to the church, beyond all we have yet seen ; that many Scripture-truths now dark and abstruse, shall be made so clear, as shall even cause us to won- der at the gross mistakes we once had thereof ; yea, that after-generations shall have a discovery and up- taking of some prophecies now obscure, which shall as far exceed ours, as this time doth go beyond former ages, which comparatively we must say were very dark. Oh, when that promise of the in-calling of the Jews shall once take place, what a wonder will they be to themselves, that their understanding should have been under such a veil, when the truth shall be clear and evident to them in that day ! Will it not be a sweet and easy work for the godly, to sort together the predictions of the word, and the events ? And truly, there is much now wrapt up in Scripture pro- phecies, not yet fulfilled, which we may say in after times, when the events shall unveil their meaning, will exceed, yea, confound all these comments many have had upon them.
3. Is it not also clear, that these prophecies, which of all the Scripture were most obscure, and overclouded with dark figures and allegories ; concerning which there had been such mistake and hesitation by the church, so many perplexing queries, have a peculiar respect to the last times ; and that then, they shall be made plain and easy, when so notable a key as the event doth open them up ; — such as those of the wit- nesses taking life and rising again, Babylon's fall and ruin, Christ's reigning with his saints a thousand
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years, which, now are in some measure cleared, from their begun accomplishment, beyond former times, but we wait for a more fall commentary, that time shall give upon the same %
4. It is in the latter times, that the glory of God in his truth and faithfulness shall most eminently shine forth : that is a part of the solemn congratu- lation of the church upon Babylon's fall: not only " great and marvellous are thy works," but "just and true are thy ways," (Rev. xv. 3) ; for truly, in this stroke of the judgment of God, and these remarkable providences concurring therewith, the fulfilling of the Scripture will be so plain and undeniable, that we may say, it will then dazzle the eyes of men, even greatest atheists, alarm the world; yea, very effectual- ly contribute (we have ground so to judge) to that promised increase of the church, and in-coming of the Jews, when in Antichrist's fall and ruin, they shall see so convincing a seal put to one of the most con- siderable prophecies of the word, in the accomplish- ment whereof, much of the prophetic part of the New Testament relating to the church's state, and her long trial under Antichrist's reign, may be seen clearly verified.
5. The Lord hath reserved his greatest works to the latter days, wherein his judgments shall be ma- nifest, and the word confirmed by such solemn con- vincing providences, that men will not get them passed without a remark. We are this day witnesses to many such, and are looking what these times shall yet bring forth, that the great and remarkable acts of the Lord, must force the world to see a divine power, and say, " Lo, there is an undoubted accom- plishment of the Scripture !"
D
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6. The church in these last times hath peculiar advantages, for understanding this truth of the Scrip- ture's accomplishment, which former ages had not : First, A great part thereof is now fulfilled, that men may see with their eyes, if they but know how to lay the word and work of God together : the Christian church had in former times but dark glances at these great things, which wehaye this day visibly transcribed in providence : the promises were then travailing in birth of that which is now brought forth. Second, Are we not mounted, as it were, on the shoulders of that ex- perience and observation of former times, which hath been transmitted to us X And we must say upon that account, the church hath now a greater seal and con- firmation of the truth, than what it had in the days of the prophets and the apostles, even when Christ was in the flesh. Third, The temple of God, and ark of his testament is now opened in heaven, light more fully abounding, and the means of knowledge. And, oh, should not this be much our study, who have a greater talent than former ages ! Certainly, this will be a sin of a deeper dye, than in times of ignorance, since we can be no strangers to the truth, without shutting our eyes, blinding the conscience, doing vio- lence to our light, when the Lord doth give his people such solemn confirmations.
7. I shall add, is it not clearly foretold in Dan. xii. 4, that in the last times this will be one of the spe- cial exercises of the saints, to inquire, and make a diligent search concerning the Scripture's accomplish- ment % For it is there said, " Many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased;" importing, that this shall be much their study, and cause a dili- gent search, whereunto the great works of God in
OF THE SCRIPTURE. 51
these times shall invite them. And what should be the posture of the godly in these days on whom the end of the world is come 1 Should it not be like the watchman in the last watch of the night, who look- eth oft what appearance there is from the east of the day breaking % — a serious inquiry what of the Scrip- ture is fulfilled, whereby we may know on very clear grounds, if the night be far spent, the day at hand, and that the coming of the Lord to judgment draw- eth near ?
VIII. This is a great and concerning duty, for Christians to study this truth, that they may have something more than report, how the Scripture hath a sure accomplishment, and doth take place in the providences of the time wherein we live. I must think it strange, that there is such a great help as this so near, and yet we see it not, nor do seriously ponder the same, when the command is so express to observe the works of the Lord, which for that end are shewed forth, that men may inquire, and read the faithfulness of God therein ; — yea, that so great a truth, which would bide the search of all the critics of the world, a truth wherein our blessedness through time and eternity lieth, should offer itself to our trial, and yet is so little known. Oh, who can dispense with the neglect of this duty, by which we answer that solemn call and invitation of the works of God ; do honour him, serve our generation, are helpers to our own faith, are thereby helped to strengthen others ; yea, are brought to see with our eyes, and from ex- perience, what before was a strange thing unto us %
Now, to clear how much this is a Christian's duty, to study a practical converse with the word, and to
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be serious observers of its accomplishment, let us consider,
1. We are thus helped to declare the works of the Lord, and to give him the glory of his faithfulness. And is not that a grave duty, which at all times, in every station and condition of life, should engage men to this study % Thus every Christian may become a witness to the truth, and put his seal thereto, for which he should think his life truly desirable ; and doth hi no small measure, attain the true end thereof, though he had no other opportunity for his Master's service. We may say, this truth of the Scripture's accomplishment, like a great roll, hath been trans- mitted from hand to hand, from one age to another, attested, and, as it were, subscribed by so many wit- nesses ; it doth thus come to our time, and to every man's door, and require their personal witnessing and sealing of the same.
2. This should make it an easy work, to trust the word, and to adventure thereon in the ordinary occur- rences of their life. They may well trust God in a strait, who have so strong an argument to make use of, that oft they have tried him, and the truth of his word, by many, many experiences. Will not those that know his name, trust in him ? — which was a not- able testimony from a serious Christian in a very sharp trial, " Oft have I tried God, and shall I not learn to trust him once ?"
3. This doth lay the Christian in the way of that promise, a promise truly large and comprehensive, but little considered, that " such as are wise to observe the works of God, they shall see the loving-kindness of the Lord" (Psal. cvii. 43), even in their own par-
OF THE SCRIPTURE. 53
ticular case made out to them ; yea, whilst they are serious to observe his works abroad in the world, and his way to others, they shall be no losers thereby at home ; but find this promise meet them, and turn their general observation into personal experience of the loving-kindness of the Lord.
4. Thus the saints, by experiencing the truth of the word, get a convincing seal thereby to their inte- rest in the promise ; for begun possession is indeed a strong witness to this right, when they can say, they have got as certain returns of the word, which they have put to an essay, in some particulars of their life, as they are sure of anything they did ever see ; so that from unquestionable experience they may set up a pil- lar, and write thereon, "Hitherto hath the Lord helped us."
5. Thus should Christians, with much advantage, be helped to convince gainsayers ; for it is sure that atheism could not make so bold and public an appear- ance, if men did not so much take their religion on trust. Oh, the serious experienced man, can with another confidence own the truth, whose experience and observation of the works of God, give him an argument that none can answer ; while not only he can assert, but conduct and lead men to the things themselves, that they may see if in such and such par- ticulars, the Scriptures be not truly fulfilled.
6. Thus the providence of God should have a more sweet refreshing countenance, when from this great height, this watch-tower of Christian observation, we take a look thereof. And truly, otherwise, men will stumble at the most ordinary dispensations, and think God's work is a mass of confusion ; but here we are
54 THE FULFILLING
taught to see, how the written word and his way are linked in a most sweet agreement.
7. We may thus trace diyine truth, even by our sense and feeling, and join the word and experience in a regular correspondence ; yea, thus we should have a clear transcript of the Lord's way with his church, taken out of that great authentic original of the Scrip- ture, and there see, on what a solid basis and foun- dation, that magnificent structure of providence is raised up. What a notable key should we thus have for opening the Scripture, by a serious humble in- quiry after the works of God, where not only the im- pression and sign of the power, but of the truth and faithfulness of the Lord, are so very legible ?
8. This is a piece of our talent wherewith we are entrusted, of which every Christian should study a serious improvement, knowing he must render an account, what his observation of this great truth hath gained, and what further establishment and confirma- tion he has thus attained.
9 . I would add, — the concernment and weight of this study may press it much on us ; for if the Scripture's accomplishment be an undoubted truth, oh, then this is sure, that the saints have a great inheritance ; they are princes, though now under a disguise ; and though yet minors, they are heirs of more than the world can shadow forth. The Christian is then more happy on a dunghill, scraping his sore, than such who are clothed in purple, and fare delicately every day. If this be sure, we should look with compassion, rather than envy, on those whom the world doth account happy. We need not question the gain of godliness : then it is sure, that such who sow in tears, shall reap in joy ; and the righteous, though now trampled Under, in the
OF THE SCRIPTURE. 55
morning shall have dominion : yea, in a word, we may then on sure ground solace ourselves with the thoughts of that great change, which will be within a little, when the grave must render back her prisoners ; and may, with as much assurance of a blessed resurrection, lie down in the dust, as we are sure there will be a morning, when we lie down at night. Oh, then, there is a heaven and a hell ; that is certain. Eter- nity is not a night-dream, and one moment shall shortly put an end to all our services ; yea, the shut- ting of our eyelids at death, shall but open them in the paradise of God.
Having touched this truth a little in the general, I shall now hold forth some arguments, whence the accomplishment of the Scripture may be demonstrated. They are these five, which I intend to prosecute in the following discourse.
The first Argument to prove that Scripture is cer- tainly fulfilled, and hath an accomplishment, is this, — That which hath been in all ages the testimony of the saints, what every particular Christian doth seal from his frequent and sure experience, what is found and proved by them in their daily walk upon exactest trial; yea, what as many as ever were serious in re- ligion do witness, must be certain and true.
But the accomplishment of the Scripture is such,
Therefore, &c.
II. Argument : That which is manifest and legible in the whole course and tenor of providence about the church, and by clear convincing instances both of judgment and mercy, is made out to the observation of every age, must be a certain truth.
But the Scripture's accomplishment is such,
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Therefore, &c.
III. Argument: That which hath not only the Christian's testimony from experience, and of the church from constant observation, but is obvious even to the view of the world ; which from the conscience of the worst of men doth force a testimony, that they can neither shift nor deny ; which also may be de- monstrated to the conviction of ordinary observers, and hath a public acknowledgment from the greatest atheists, and mockers of religion in every age, must surely be a clear truth.
But, &c. Therefore, &c.
IV. Argument : That which was to take place in such and such periods of time, and hath accordingly come to pass, the event exactly answering to the pre- diction ; yea, that whereof the great part is now ful- filled, and but a little at this day remaineth to be made out, must be a certain truth.
But the great part of the Scripture is thus already fulfilled, and but a little thereof now remaineth. Therefore, &c.
V. Argument : That which not only is for the most part already accomplished, but is a thing whereof we have such sure confirmations, yea, so great a pledge in our hand from the Lord, that what yet remains shall be certainly fulfilled, must it not be an un- doubted truth I But the Scripture, as to these spe- cial predictions that are not yet made out, is such, concerning which the Lord hath given his people a very large pledge, and strong confirmations, now in these latter times, to believe their certain accom- plishment.
Therefore, &c.
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Argument First, — That the Scripture of God, contained in the Old and New Testament, wherein our great hope and comfort do lie, is certainly true, and hath a real accomplishment, may be thus demon- strated ; that it is tried and proyed in the godly man's experience, to which in all ages, yea, from innumer- able proofs, the saints have put to their seal, that this is a sure and faithful testimony.
Experience is indeed a strong demonstration, and it is such a witness, as leaveth no room for debate : for here the truth is felt, proven, and acted on the heart, which the Christian knoweth well, and is as sure of, as he is persuaded that he liveth, or that the sun when it shine th, hath light and warmness there- with. It is true, the world liveth at a great distance from this ; they only converse with the sound of such a thing; and we know that the naked theory of Scripture truth hath but a short reach, and that it diifereth as far from that which a serious practical Christian hath, as the sight of a country in a map is from a real discovery of the same, where the differ- ence is not in the degree, but in the kind. Yet though this grave testimony of experience is a thing whereto many (alas ! too many) are strangers, we must say, so much thereof is obvious, as may force its authority on men's consciences, and shew there can be no fallacy or delusion in this witness, if they but allow the use and exercise of reason, seeing it is not the record of a few at one time, or in one corner of the earth, but a solemn witness from the saints and followers of God, whose judgment and hitegrity their adversaries must often confess; yea, of all the saints in every age, through the whole universal church, in parts of the world most remote from each other ; and this, by most
58 THE FULFILLING
frequent renewed proofs, hath found and experienced the truth and real accomplishment of the word. And now, if this be not sufficiently convincing, I would but add, " Oh, will you then come and see ? Be but Christians indeed, and then ye will no more debate that testimony. And truly, it is a very poor shift, for men who have the Scripture before them, which of itself doth witness its authority, and this backed with so solemn a seal from the Lord, by his works and providence, to debate the Christian's witness from their experience, because they do not see this them- selves. For what is the cause thereof? is it not their choice, that they do not follow on to know the same % The truth of God seeketh credit from no man upon trust ; yea, craveth no more, but that by a practical converse they would put it to a trial, and then it shall not decline their judgment.
Now, to prosecute this argument a little, I shall point some special Scripture truths, with which Chris- tians have most usual trade and converse in their own case, and give in therewith their testimony, how these are clearly proved and verified by most sure experience. It is not to be here understood, the giving a parti- cular account, with respect to persons, time, or other circumstances, how the word doth thus take place : I think it may be sufficiently convincing, to instance in the general such clear uncontroverted experiences, which are well known to the godly, and have by them been oft proved, amidst the various changes of their life, (though not by all in the same measure, but some suitable proportion to their different sizes, trials, and wrestlings,) which can witness that real correspondence which the word hath with the experience of the saints. And truly, concerning these, I may with some conn-
OF THE SCRIPTURE. 59
dence assert, they are not naked or airy notions, but such as can witness their truth to the serious ex- perienced Christian, whom on this account I dare attest.
I shall here instance five special truths of the word, which are much tried and proved in Christians' ex- perience : I. That there is such a contrariety betwixt the flesh and the spirit, as the Scripture holdeth forth. II. The deceitfulness of man's heart. III. That there is a spiritual and invisible adversary, with whom we have war. IV. That the promises of the word have undoubted accomplishment. V. The truth also of the threatenings, I mean such, under whose reach the godly may fall.
I. That there is a contrariety betwixt the flesh and the spirit, a law in our members rebelling against the law of our mind, is a truth very clearly proved to the Christian, whose experience, though sad, doth unde- niably verify and confirm the Scripture, (Gal. v. 17, Rom. vii. 19, 21, 23). This is a piece of the word, which holds forth man's nature in its true shape and form, whither their bias and inclination most easily turn ; yea, so marvellously answereth their experi- ence, that to question the same, were to put it far beyond question, that they know nothing of a new nature, or principle of grace within. For who ever made earnest of religion, but his first acquaintance with the peace of God, was the beginning of this war ? It is then that the house divideth, and corruption setteth up a standard ; yea, no sooner can any begin to be a Christian, but he must be a soldier also ; and we may say, none ever attained such a measure of mortification, or was so old in the grace of God, as could privilege him from the stirrings of the old man, i
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and necessity of that complaint, " Who shall deliver me from a body of death ?" But whatever advantage some of the saints have above others, yet in this, their experience can witness,
1. They now know two different parties within themselves, which, until once grace came, they could not understand, which at the same time, in the very same action do act oppositely one to the other ; yea, that there is no spiritual duty, wherein the flesh (though not always in such a prevalent degree) doth not shew some active resistance. .... « y
2. That all the stirrings and motions of the flesh, have still a tendency congruous to their own nature, to make the heart carnal, and to alienate it from God, so as it is easy to discern, how in these, the rise and the end do throughly correspond.
3. That this is a cruel task-master, if once it bear sway, imperious in its command, and violent in its pursuit ; so that their experience may herein tell, it is a sore and an intolerable thing for a servant to bear rule.
4. That to things most forbidden, the flesh moveth most impetuously, so as it will even break through the hedge, though sure thereby to be scratched with thorns ; yea, it is oft so eager in its pursuit, that it will follow the bait, while the hook is most discernible.
5. That when once this doth swell and wax fat, they may upon another interest cry, " Woe's us, our leanness !" for like the scales of the balance, they find a proportionable abatement and depressing of their spiritual life, as the flesh gocth up ; yea, they have cause to know, how every step of their heart going forth to the world, is a step that doth put them further off from God.
OF THE SCRIPTURE. 61
6. That the more closely the law is pressed in its spiritual extent, yea, the more spiritual a duty is, the more fully opposite they find their carnal heart ; and though the flesh may bear up a little with the form of religion, and hath more complacency with that way which lieth most in externals, yet it cannot endure the power thereof ; it cam suffer men to be hypocrites, but not truly Christians.
7. To restrain and bring this under bondage, they find, that it doth put the spirit so much at liberty ; which getting loose reins for a little, will leave the soul work for many days, and with sad after-groans pay back an hour's pleasure. Yea, they also know, when the outward man is low, and upon a sensible decay, it hath not then hindered, but rather effectually helped their inward joy and strength.
8. That indulgence to the flesh causeth a sensible thick interposition between heaven and the soul, whence they are so clogged and hampered in their flight and motion toward God ; yea, thus have often their choicest duties been made a sore and grievous task.
9. That this is the true rise of their usual pertur- bations, and doth still put some jar betwixt them and their lot, and doth hinder a satisfied enjoying of that which they have, through murmuring at that they want ; yea, they know that to please the flesh, hath been oft the cause of their greatest grief and dis- pleasure.
10. They also find, how the defilement of their spirit doth help to darken it, which overgrown with the flesh, can have no clear discovery of spiritual things ; but the more separate from the body, and purged from these gross dregs, they find themselves at
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which thus they get discovered beyond all that nature can reach.
II. That the heart of man is deceitful and despe- rately evil (Jer. xvii. 9, iv. 14; Prov. iv. 23), is a Scripture truth, whereto the Christian's experience doth answer, as the face answereth to itself in the glass ; yea, we may say, it is so clearly demonstrated to those who were ever serious about their inward case, that while they thus read the word in themselves, and are made to read themselves in the word, they may with wonder acknowledge, that He who can sound this great deep of the heart, and draw so vivid a portraiture thereof, is surely one before whom all things are mani- fest, who doth search and try the reins, and know what is our mould and fashion. This is one of the very first lessons which practical religion doth teach ; and the more nearness with God, and further measure of grace that is attained, the more clear discovery there will be of this. Oh, what sad hours, what bitter complaints hath it caused 1 This oft doth mar the Christian's feast, and mingle his wine with gall and wormwood. I am sure, if that excellent company of the saints, who have been from the beginning to this day, could be brought together, to give in their suf- frage and witness concerning the deceitfulness of the heart, there would be one joint testimony to this truth: we should find that Enoch who walked with God, Moses with whom he spake face to face, that beloved servant who leaned in Christ's bosom, and he who was caught up to the third heavens, were no strangers thereto, but could witness thus : — ■
1. That it is within which aileth them most, and their greatest adversaries are men of their own house ; yea, that in the worst of times there is still more cause
OF THE SCRIPTURE. 63
to complain of an evil heart, than of an evil and cor- rupt world, there being no worse company than they are oft to themselves.
2. That no time of their life, but might give them some further proof, that they are fools who trust their own heart, which oft will escape and over-reach their quickest reflection, even when both their eyes are on it ; yea, that there is no time that alloweth the put- ting off their armour, or to dismiss their guard ; not the best case, the greatest establishment in grace, nor the evening of the day, though they were within some minutes of the crown and complete victory, doth privi- lege them from the experience of a deceitful heart.
3. That under the best frame, they find there will often lurk that which after-time doth discover, that for the present, though it had been told, they could not have believed, until frequent experience maketk them see that the word knew their heart better than themselves.
4. That to bring home their heart when once it goeth abroad, or recal the liberty they have given it, is not easy ; which doth no sooner parley with a temp- tation at a distance, and adventure to sport therewith, but it quickly turneth to earnest, and is ready to yield.
5. They know the constant need to have a watch upon their senses, and to make a covenant with their eyes, which do quickly betray their heart ; so easy it is to be deceived, yea, to grow warm, and to take need-fire* upon the smallest touch.
6. How quickly also their spirit doth slacken and lose its bensil,"f even in the greatest advantage of
* Fire produced by the friction of two sticks. t Force, strength.
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their case, their experience can tell; that when in some measure they have been raised up in any spiritual enjoyment, they were then in hazard to be lifted up to the wind, and to have their substance dissolved in the more solid part of Christianity.
7. What a sight have they sometimes of themselves, such as would be a terror to them, if the heart and motions thereof could be written out to the view of others ; or that any were witnesses to that, which in one room will dwell beside the grace of God as its door-neighbour.
8. In a word, their experience doth witness, how soon the strongest resolutions will evanish ; that they are not oft in the evening what they were in the morning ; nor for many hours do they keep the ground they had attained, but Reuben's character, " unstable as water," may be still their complaint ; yea, I am sure, as many as ever obtained mercy to know them- selves, can tell that it is past all reckoning, how oft their heart hath deceived them when they trusted it most. This every day may cause them sit down, and admire the grace of God, which can mend what they so oft mar, and is stronger to save and preserve, than they are to destroy.
III. That as there is a body of death within, they also know there is an adversary without (Eph. vi. 12, 1 Pet. v. 8, John viii. 44), whose way, and de- vices, and method of tempting, do most exactly answer the discovery of the word. This is indeed a truth, which Christian experience in all ages doth witness, that no sooner they had a serious look after God, but they found themselves pursued by an invisible party, whose approaches though spiritual, are yet certain, and most sensibly demonstrated, beside that which
OF THE SCRIPTURE. 65
the word doth clearly teach ; yea, it is sure, none of the saints were ever privileged from such experiences, for herein doth the Christian's warfare lie. But oh, how sweet may the evening be, while they sit down, and can sing that song, " Our soul hath escaped as a bird from the fowler !" I shall here give in some- thing of the godly man's experience, which can bear witness to this,
1. That there is surely another party than the world or themselves, with which they have to do ; an invisible adversary without, whom they perceive by that sensible correspondence he keepeth with their heart within, by these violent inroads, importunate solicitations, these impetuous motions, wherewith they are so strangely hurried, and oft driven over light and judgment, yea, over their strongest resolutions ; so as he may be as discernible to them, and that there is something therein beside themselves, as if they con- versed with him in an outward visible shape.
2. That since the time when they began to look after God, and to know any thing of his work upon their spirits, they have been acquainted with most af- frighting, dreadful temptations ; and do now perceive his rage, and violent pursuit to bring them back, which they knew not before, when at peace with their idols and sinful way.
3. That the mark he levelleth at, to which his usual temptations have a tendency, is their soul and inward man, to hinder communion with God, and to turn their heart off from him ; to break the law, and lay aside commanded duties.
4. That his ordinary approaches to the heart are oft by a very small thing ; he needs no more but an open door or a sinful look, for the dispatch of a temp-
E
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tation ; and knoweth by a wound in the eye, how to carry death into the soul.
5. That he is such a party, as knoweth his time and opportunity ; can change his weapons, and busk the hook with diyers baits ; and yet he is always at hand, when the heart is lifted up, when they are out of their duty, and in a carnal frame, to put in then with some temptation, and fish in such a drumly* water.
6. That his way doth truly answer his name, " Spiritual wickedness in high places," this being so discerned by daily experience, that he hath the advan- tage of the ground ; is a most subtile observing ad- versary, who lieth in the dark to us, while we are in the light to him ; and knoweth how to correspond with our corruption, and to suit his temptation to our natural temper (wherewith he is well acquainted) and to our calling, and our company, to the present strait, to our predominant inclination and to our retirement and solitude ; yea, that he is one who knoweth how to follow in and ply with such a gale, when we are in hot blood, or in any distemper, and discomposure of spirit.
7. That he can transform himself into an angel of light, and suit his temptations to the spiritual exer- cises and enjoyments of the saints : that there are temptations on the right hand as well as the left, which are so refined, and so like a Christian exercise, that they can scarcely discern the weed from the flower, and most dreadful errors from the choicest truths, to which they oft have a great resemblance ; though at last it doth appear, that the native ten- dency even of the most specious errors in the judg- ment, is to looseness in practice, and to make men religiously irreligious.
* Mr.<"!<1y.
OF THE SCRIPTURE. 67
8. That lie is also a roaring lion, which they have oft proved by the dreadful blasphemous injections, those fiery darts which are thrown in with violence, wherewith there is no concurrence of the inclination or consent, but a discernible force put upon them ; assaulting them with most horrid atheistical thoughts, even while their heart doth rise with abhorrence, and enter their dissent against the same.
9. That he is a most restless adversary, who is going still about, and giveth no cessation but with purpose to return at some greater advantage ; and is no less terrible in his flight than in his assault ; and that he can speak out of a friend as well as out of a foe ; yea, and doth then most dangerously tempt, when the temptation is least seen or discovered.
10. That his temptations do not only drive at en- gaging of the heart, to bring sin to the thought, but also the bringing it forth to the act, for putting some blot upon their walk and conversation.
11. That he is one who is overcome by resistance, and doth flee before those that withstand him ; which they have oft proved, that they have returned from prayer with the spoil of their adversary, and at such a time have been made to wonder, how that which hath oft foiled them, should have been their tempta- tion.
12. They also find by frequent observation, that though he is most subtile, being indeed one who through long experience and continued practice hath attained a great deal of dexterity in tempting, yet, that he hath one usual method, and such devices, which the serious Christian, by daily experience and watchfulness, may easily discern, and perceive his temptations in their rise, and at a distance, while
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they are, as it were, creeping up the wall ; yea, thus in some measure he may find out the depths of Satan, and know how to avoid the net spread by that great fowler.
IV. That the promises of the word which are held forth to the godly for their use and encouragement while they are in the way, have a certain accomplish- ment, and are a safe ground to adventure upon, and worthy to be credited, is a truth tried in all ages, whereto experience of the saints can give a large tes- timony.
Now, in speaking on this grave subject, it is not needful to speak any thing of the nature and diverse kinds of promises, nor whence it is that we live at so poor a rate, and so uncomfortably, while such a well as this is at our hand ; for it is easy to read the cause within ourselves. We sow sparingly, and venture little out, therefore we have so small an increase ; there is a price for wisdom, but it is in the hands of fools, who have no heart thereto. But this doth not concern us here, for I only aim to hold out this, — - that the promises which God hath given his people in the Scripture are of unquestionable verity, and have as real and sure performance in the saints' experience, as they are sure of that which cometh most neces- sarily to pass, by the work and concurrence of natu- ral causes ; as that the fire doth burn, when combus- tible matter is added, or the sun rise after it's going down : for indeed, this truth is so manifest, and proved by such innumerable experiments, amidst the various changes of a Christian's condition, that we might sum- mon as many witnesses, as there have been followers of God in the world, which are not a few, who in all ages have put the promises to an essay, and put their
OF THE SCRIPTURE. 69
seal thereto, that God is true. Yea, to ask at such, if they know whether there be a truth in Scripture promises, that cometh not to pass, I think were to inquire at a living man whether he seeth and feeleth, or if there be such a thing as motion, since they have as sure and sensible a demonstration of the one, as he hath of the other.
But ere I speak anything particularly to this, I would first premise some things to clear what we un- derstand here by the saints' experience of the truth of the promises, in these following considerations :
1. We would consider, though the Scripture hath here its accomplishment, and is intended for the use of the church, and every particular Christian, while on the way in his militant condition, yet there are some promises of the word, yea, the greatest, which belong to the saints, that will not be fulfilled until they have cast off their armour, and are called to divide the spoil ; their experience of which will be the high prize of the calling of God in Christ, whereof all which they enjoy is but an earnest.
2. We would consider, that the great intent of the Scripture, and promises thereof, is not for contem- plation, but that we may know them by experience, and drive a blessed trade and commerce therewith, the merchandise of which is better than that of gold. For here lieth the Christian's life in the world ; yea, it is a great part of their talent, the promises, which are not to be laid up in their heart and memory as in a napkin, but they must give an account what ex- perience they have gained thereby ; and thus the diligent hand should make rich.
3. Whatever be the different sizes and degrees of experience among the saints, according to their
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growth, and age in Christ, yet it is certain that the meanest who have interest in the promises, and did ever grip them in earnest, and put them to trial, must know something of the performance of the same in their own case ; for the Lord doth not suffer his work in his people to want a seal.
4. The godly's experience hereof is then much made out, when they are much in observation ; and we know little of the truth and performance of the promises, because we are not more habitually in a frame to observe. Thus, He goeth by, and we per- ceive not : but they never wanted confirmations, who were seriously seeking to be confirmed in the truth of the word.
5. The special mercies and providences of a Chris- tian life, are a certain return of the promise, and in that way do meet them as the proper channel of their conveyance ; for they are the sure mercies of the covenant. And how refreshful is it, that all the several cases of the saints, and their outgate thereof, their meanest as well as their greatest necessities, are comprehended in the word, and under some promise ; and were all foreseen in His everlasting view, who hath so marvellously suited the same to all that his people stand in need of, as if it had been directed to such and such a Christian only.
6. This helpeth to make the mercies of the godly man to have a peculiar and sweet relish, and to be some way twice his mercy, when he gets them in so immediate a way reached to him, as. it were out of the promise, and as an observable return from heaven, when thus the Lord sealeth his word to him by his work. And the way of the word, he findeth hath been the way of his comfortable outgate ; that when
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lie hath had no other escape, but to turn in to the promise, and to cast himself upon it, he gained this experience. He trusted in God, and was helped, and can give in this testimony of him, that he hath both spoken it, and himself also hath done it, according to his word.
7. It is not any extraordinary thing we here un- derstand by the Christian man's experience of the truth of the promises : it is not a rapture or revela- tion, or such as some of the saints have upon some singular and special account had. For we have not any promise for these things ; but it is something well grounded upon the word, which constantly holdeth in the Lord's ordinary way of procedure with his people, according to the tenor of the covenant ; for his word doth good to them that walk uprightly, and doth certainly take place in the experience of every serious and diligent Christian.
8. This is not the testimony of a few, but the re- cord of all the saints since the beginning, whose ex- perience doth almost harmoniously agree, and bear one witness, that he is faithful who hath promised ; and it is not that which a Christian hath found once or twice in his life, but the daily food of such as live by faith.
9. This doth put a strong obligation on the godly man to the word for the time to come ; for those who have tried it often, may, with much confidence, trust it in the day of their strait.
10. The experience which the godly man hath of the real performance of the promises, is a most convinc- ing evidence of his state in Christ. It is the earnest and pledge of the inheritance, and fall accomplishment of that which remaineth, that the Lord will make
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perfect what coneernetli him, who hath been his help hitherto; and will be his exceeding great re- ward in the end, who hath made him find so much of the gain of godliness here by the way.
Now, having premised these things, I shall here instance some particular promises, wherein the Chris- tians' most usual trade and commerce lie, and to which they give in their seal and witness. I confess, if all these proofs which the saints have had of the fulfilling of the promises could be gathered together, we might make use of that divine hyperbole, " The world could not contain the books that should be written thereof." Oh, what an admirable volume, what an excellent commentary and copy should this be of the Scripture, to see it thus turned over into the experience of every Christian ! It would be some way as easy to number the drops of rain and dew since the creation, as to reckon all those precious drops and emanations of love, those sensible returns and out-makings of the promise, which they have had in their experience. I truly think it could hardly be believed, though it were told, what some of the godly here have found in the way of the word. But it is sufficient to answer the design of the work, to shew, that there is a sensible demonstration and per- formance of Scripture promises, concerning which the experience of the saints in all ages doth agree, that by many confirmations the Lord hath oft sealed the truth thereof to their souls.
There are ten special promises held forth to the godly in the word, which I shall here instance, and therewith hold forth, what a clear testimony their experience can give of the undoubted truth and ac- complishment of the same.
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The first instance, is that promise given to believ- ing; to such who credit the naked word, when there is no probable appearance or its out -making, and thus give God the glory of his faithfulness, which we have expressly held out in 2 Chron. xx. 20, Psal. cxii. 7, 8, John i. 50.
To clear the accomplishment of this promise, I shall but appeal to that testimony the saints in all ages have left thereof; yea, to the present experience of the godly at this day, if they have not certainly found it so,
• 1. That when in a particular they have trusted God therewith, and got their spirit quiet in a recum- bency on him, he hath dealt with them according to his word ; yea, if then from clear convincing returns of the promise, they have not been made to say, it did never repent them that they gave more credit to the testimony of God, than of their own hearts.
2. That they have not found a more sweet and ob- servable issue, than when their help lay most imme- diately on the word alone : never a more sensible outgate than when least of sense, and most of faith was in carrying them through; when little of the creature, and much of God appeared in their mercy. And where they were at the lowest, and had no way of escape, but to throw themselves on the promise, they have then had the best retreat, yea, their supply as sensibly felt, as their need and burden had formerly been.
3. That their greatest difficulties and shakings anent the promise, have helped to their further con- firming and establishment, so as they can say, the Lord's way, by brangling them first, yea, to their sense, loosing their grip, hath helped to fasten it bet-
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ter ; and that which, for the time did speak their case most helpless, hath made way for his more eminent appearance, and manifesting of himself.
4. That their greatest venture and giving most out, hath usually had the richest income, the most eminent experiences of their life have followed the most adventurous acts of their faith ; yea, upon an after-reckoning they have oft found, that their ad- venturing of life, estate, and credit on the promise of God, even in these things, hath very observably been their up-making.
5. That where they have most been a friend to their faith, there hath faith also been most a friend to them : in their standing to the credit of the pro- mise, over the belly of greatest objections and false reports raised thereof, they have found a very evi- dent mark of God's respect to the same, causing them to see, that he will honour such who thus ho- nour him. And it is indeed worthy of a remark, what we have of Caleb upon record, that he took part with the promise of God, against that discouraging report which then was raised of the Anakims and their walled cities ; and, therefore, the inheritance of the children of Anak was given to Caleb and his sons, in their lot, from the Lord.
6. That believing doth always make way for sense ; and in their closing with the naked word of promise, they have not wanted the seal of the Spirit of pro- mise, but have found a sweet calm, their burden sen- sibly eased, when once they got it laid on the word, which they can say hath been their first resting place, like the very fixing of the motion of the needle to- wards its right point, when their spirit had been rest- less, and in greatest agitation.
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7. That these greatest disappointments which their hope in the -word seemed to hare, they have found afterwards most to their advantage, when their re- turns have not only been according to their faith, but have often exceeded their adventure, and been far be- yond what they believed ; yea, that from frequent experience they may say, the issue of trusting the word, how long so ever they thought it deferred, yet, came always in season, was never too late and out of time.
8. That this did never occasion bitter reflections, or was their upcast* before the world, that they trusted God in a day of strait, and were not helped ; but this testimony have all such left, who have most credited it in a dismal hour, that none should scar]' after them to hazard upon such a hand, and venture on the pro- mise ; for their faith hath oft taken them well and comfortably through, where both sense and reason have been ready to sink.
The second instance whereby we may see the per- formance of the promise in Christian experience is this. That God truly heareth prayer, is near unto his peo- ple in what they call upon him, agreeably to his word, and will answer their desires. We have this promise most express in Phil. iv. 6, Psal. xxxii. 6, Psal. lxv. 2, Psal. xci. 15.
Now, the accomplishing of this piece of Scripture is so very clear, that I can attest the experience of all the generation of the righteous, since the beginning, what frequent and unanswerable confirmations they have got of this truth in their Christian walk, so that I am sure, no man ever was in earnest in the matter of religion, and a stranger to this ; yea, that he was * Keproacli. t Fear.
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never more certainly persuaded of any tiling, than of this, that God doth hear prayer. Oh, if men's souls were but in their souls' stead, whose evening wrestl- ings and tears the Lord hath oft turned into a morn-
to
ing song, they should know this is no delusion. I shall here touch something of that experience which by many proofs the saints can give, as a witness to this promise.
1. That when they have oft with Hannah, gone in before the Lord in the bitterness of their spirit, they have been made to return with a sensible and mar- vellous change in their case : yea, when in going about prayer, they have been put to wrestle with much dis- temper and deadness, they have oft seen the wind discemibly change, and therewith their spirits light- ened from under that burden ; an observable calm and serenity, after much inward perturbation ; yea, they can say, that they have found their hearts thawed, and put into a flush of tenderness, upon the back of a most sensible restraint.
2. That access and- liberty to pour forth their souls to God, when he hath filled their mouth with argu- ments, and enabled them both to wrestle and wait, they have found a favourable crisis and begun outgate ; yea, the very turn of a sad case, which they have got from the Lord, as the pledge of a further answer ; and that when he thus prepareth the heart, he doth cause his ear to hear.
3. That when they have been under a most dark cloud, they have found their sky clear ; have got a very sensible taste of God's acceptation in prayer, and of his taking their suit off their hand, even while the matter was still in dependence before him ; yea, that they have oft had such a satisfying impression of
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God's mind, and persuasion of his answering their de- sire, as hath helped them cheerfully to wait, yea, some- times to sing the triumph before the victory.
4. That when they had been much in prayer, they must also say, it hath been the time wherein the spirit hath flourished, was most lively, yea, then they had their best days : then, the candle of the Lord shined upon their paths, and his dew lay all night upon their branches ; and they have found there is an evident, and proportionable abatement of their spiritual life, and encouragement in God, according to their wearing out in the exercise of this duty.
5. They have many times found, that when there was nothing left them, but to return in to God, and they knew of no other way to come through, but to pray and look up, they never found a more sweet and seasonable outgate, so that most observable times of prayer, have been also the most observable times of their experience ; and they can say from many proofs, it is no hopeless business, which is put over upon God by prayer, though there be small outward appearance.
6. That it is not in vain to follow out a suit before the throne, but access andmoyen* in heaven is assure a way to come speed (which they know well) as greatest moyen upon earth ; having so evidently found, while many seek the ruler's favour, that the determination of every thing is from the Lord.
7. That prayer, with quiet on-waiting in the use of means, winneth comfortably through, where over-car- ing, and carnal policy in the use of all other shifts, have been forced to stick.
8. They know by experience, that as there are
* Moans.
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judicial times, wherein an inhibition as it were is laid on them from the Lord, in their wrestling, yea, and a sore restraint on their spirits, which hath been very sensible ; so also they have found times of prayer let forth before some special mercy and deliverance to the Church, whereby they could in some measure discern its near approach.
9. That on the back of some solemn address, and application to God by prayer and fasting in a day of strait, they have oft seen cause even from that day and upward, to date a remarkable return and out- gate, in which even common observers might discern, what an evident answer the church's intercession with God in times of extremity hath had.
10. I may add, the saints know this so well by ex- perience, that surely God heareth prayer, even in such and such a particular, that they can with much confi- dence adventure, and make an errand of the meanest, as well as their greatest concernments to him, having so oft tried, and found that seriousness and sincerity in address to God, was never in vain, but whatever be the times, therein his promise taketh place, " Their heart shall live that seek God."
The third instance, is the promise of the Spirit, and pouring out of the same, which we have clear in the word ; Isa. lix. 21, John xiv. 16, Luke xxiv. 49, Rom. viii. 16, 17. The accomplishment of which is so manifest, such a sensible demonstration thereof in the experience of the saints, that I am sure this can no more be denied, than those who are warmed with the heat of the sun, can deny their sense and feeling, that the sun hath such an influence. And doth not the Christian's spiritual walk, bear as convincing a witness to the fulfilling of this promise, as any livnig
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man, by walking in the way, sheweth tliat he hath, a soul, and principle of life within him. Now, to de- monstrate this a little, I would but touch some of the ordinary experiences of the saints therein, which they do testify, and by clear undeniable evidences know to be no delusion.
1. That which causeth so real a change upon them ; which maketh them alive to God, who once were dead, creating them as it were of new ; that which bringeth a clod of earth so near heaven ; raiseth them so far above themselves, to a delightful converse with things not seen, that while their place and abode is here, their company and fellowship is above ; that which maketh all things new to them, and doth so far change their nature and inclination, as causeth them find more sweetness in a spiritual life, than in the pleasures of sin, yea, reconcileth them with the law and exercises of a Christian, where once there was such contrariety ; oh, is not this a real effect of the Spirit, and no imaginary thing %
2. That whereof they were altogether ignorant, when they were strangers to God, and knew not if there were a Holy Ghost, but by report ; now, since their being born again, they find themselves entered in another world, brought out of darkness into a mar- vellous light, and of tins are sure, that once they were blind, but now they see ; is not this a proof of the truth of this promise %
3. That which maketh them see more of God in his word and works at one time than at another, whence is this difference and inequality % The Scriptures are at one time the great things of the law, which are at another time but common things to them. The ob- ject is the same, but oh, what different manifestation
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thereof! Whence is it that such a light springeth up in the word, that openeth up this deep, and maketh them see the wonders of his law ; and within a little, nothing but dark night? Do not the saints know this well, and that it is no delusion \
4. That which maketh such sensible liberty in their soul, and confidence in their approach to God, after sore bondage and fear ; which raiseth them often so far above their ordinary frame, as they are not only quickened and refreshed themselves, but . do observ- ably warm others. Oh, how piercing and savoury are their words, which shew what difference there is oft betwixt a Christian and himself; betwixt a dead exer- cise of a gift which reacheth the ear, and that which melteth the heart ; and doth even reach bye-standers with a pleasant perfume.
5. That which maketh such a sudden change in their case under ordinances, that their heart that died within them as a stone, ere ever they were aware, hath taken life and need-fire with a word ; yea, hath been poured out within them, so as their Beloved's voice hath had another sound. Oh, then, they think not the time long ! The word is as the honey from the comb, so as they have oft wished a perpetual ar- rest upon their spirit in such a condition ; that none may stir up their Beloved until he please. Can that be any delusion %
6. That which bringeth in promises seasonably into their mind hi the day of their strait, and causeth the word tryst so suitably to their present case, with such a satisfying impression of the same, as doth give most sensible and present ease.
7. That which so clearly by the word discovereth to men their own heart, and doth search them out in
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their most close and retired thoughts, that they have been oft made to wonder how the word is upon all their secrets ; is not this the candle of the Lord ?
8. That which doth demonstrate their state and being in Christ, by an argument which is beyond all words ; and doth by power, in an irresistible way answer all objections, and turn the most froward case into a blessed calm ; and hath made a simple word more effectual in a moment, than most persuasive ar- guments could be.
9. That which maketh such abundant joy spring up in the heart, when there are no visible grounds for the same, like the dry bone gushing out water, must surely be some supernatural and excellent power, that can not only bring it out of nothing, but out of con- traries.
10. That which giveth them so sensible a taste of the powers of the world to come ; such a ravishing glance of the inheritance, that they could hardly some- times forbear to rise at midnight, and sing for joy in the hope thereof; and hath given them such a dis- covery of God at some special times, as hath made them judge, that all they ever knew of him before, was but by hearing of the ear.
11. That which is so discernible, and sensibly felt in the present time, that Christ's return to the soul, and the out-letting of the Spirit have been as evident oft to the saints, as to that martyr, who was forced to cry out at the stake, " He is come ! he is come !" and have been so sweet when enjoyed, that the re- membrance of some of those times hath been very pleasant and refreshing ; yea, this is such a thing, as most observably trysts the godly man in the way of his duty, according to the word.
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12. That is no delusion, the withdrawing whereof is so sensible to them, as it maketh their duty, where- in they have had delight, become their burden, when they are put to row with oars, the wind being gone, and maketh it like night to the soul, when the sun is gone down. And sad experience hath oft shewed them, how the overclouding of their soul, the with- drawing of the Spirit and Comforter, doth observably follow a sitting up of duty, and yielding to any known sin by which it is grieved.
The fourth instance, is that promise for direction, which God hath given his people in the word, that he will guide them with his counsel, will order and direct their steps who do commit their way to him, and teach them the way that they shall choose, (Psal. xxxvii. 5 ; xxv. 9, 14 ; Ixxiii. 24). The fulfilling of which hath been so manifest to those who ever made earnest of acknowledging God in their ways, and committing the conduct thereof to him, that I shall but attest their experience, if they have not this testimony to .give : —
1. That to trust God with their case, and give him the guiding of their way, hath taken them much more easily through a plunging case, than over-caring anxiety ; yea, the Lord's directing their steps, and making things successful, when they have committed the same to him, hath been often as sensible to them, as their strait and difficulty were.
2. That the way of the word hath been the best expedient for taking them safe and comfortably through ; and that they never repented, that they did more consult their duty than inclination, when they were at a stand about a particular, and did not debate
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the command, even while there seemed a lion in the way.
3. That they were never left without counsel and direction, when their eye was single and serious about it; and it was not so much want of light, as of a heart to close therewith, that made their way oft so dark ; but when they subjected themselves to God's mind, they found, that such who follow him shall not walk in darkness.
4. That light and counsel tryst men in following the command, and the practice of known duty hath helped them to know more their duty ; and that light did most abound when it was their serious study to follow the same.
5. They found it was never in vain to inquire after God's mind by prayer, and also in the temple to make a reference of a particular to him, when it was too hard for them ; but have often seen the word evidently directed to such and such a case, as if they had gotten a return from heaven by an audible voice.
6. They also know, that God's following in light with a powerful impression, his teaching the reins, and instructing with a strong hand, is no delusion, but the sure and well grounded experience of most solid Christians in all ages, yea, most discernible from any false impulse ; and that some special piece of work and service, which God hath laid in their way, wants not usually some special call, backed with such light and authority, as in an irresistible way can answer all objections, to make them go bound in the Spirit about such a duty.
7. How God's special directing hand hath been oft very observable, not only in preventing and crossing
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their way, to withdraw them by some sharp dispen- sation from their purpose, but sensibly overpowering them, so that they have been plucked as it were back from unavoidable hazard, that they could not find their paths.
8. I shall add, they have oft observably found, how easy their way was made to them, when the Lord doth countenance and prosper the same ; what sweet concurrence of providences ; how then difficulties have most sensibly been taken out of the way, yea, wind and tide going along with them, in such a manner, that they have been forced to see, and confess a divine hand therein.
The fifth instance, is the promise of pardon and forgiveness which God hath given his people in the word ; that for his name's sake he will blot out their iniquity, and remember their sin no more, yea, is ready to pardon ; which is expressly held forth, to these who are truly humbled, (Mic. vii. 18 ; Jer. xxxi. 34; Isa. xliii. 25).
Now that there is a real accomplishment of this, I am sure the experience of the saints can in all ages clearly witness; what joy and peace this hath occa- sioned ; what a sensible demonstration and solemn confirmations they have had of this promise, so" as their very bones might sing, " Who is like unto thee, O Lord V It is true, real pardon of sin doth not al- ways infer the sensible feeling thereof ; and when it is remitted in heaven, there is not always a declaration of it in the conscience. But it is also sure, that this is sensibly felt ; and that it is tried by all, even all the generation of the righteous, to have had as powerful an operation on a disquiet, troubled soul, as ever wine, or the choicest cordial could have on the sick, or faint.
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Oh, if those who question this, were in their case, to whom God speaketk peace after a storm, they would know how real and certain that is ! I would offer the Christian's witness to this promise, from many, many experiments, by which the Lord hath sealed it to their soul, whereby they know assuredly it is no fancy or delusion,
1. How this hath as sensible a connection with the serious exercise of contrition and repentance in their experience, as it certainly hath in the word and pro- mise ; while they find, that in silence, and keeping up their case from God, their bones have been troubled, their spirit in a restless and disquiet condition, until once they made an address, and got their soul vented by confessing to the Lord; which was then like a kindly turn and cool of a fever.
2. They know it is no delusion, that is found so certain a cure to a wounded spirit, under the sense of sin ; a wound which the world and all its diversions could never heal, whose pain and grief no music can allay ; a drop of divine displeasure being enough to turn all their pleasures into wormwood and gall. But, oh, a taste of this unspeakable cordial, one warming look of a reconciled God, they know by experience, can give present ease.
3. It is no delusion, which they can command no more, than the sun to shine when overclouded, or the wind to blow but when it listeth ; which the most persuading moral arguments can nowise effectuate, nor all their former experience ; yea, the letter of most refreshing promises, which sometimes are to them but as the white of an egg, without taste, until once the Spirit breathe, which not only discovereth the ground of their joy in the word, but doth also
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cause tli em to rejoice therein, when it shineth upon the same.
4. It must be no delusion, which causeth so mar- vellous a change, that after greatest disquieting fears, they have found most sensible manifestations of love ; the greatest flood, on the back of the lowest ebb in their spiritual condition ; which oft hath forced them to retreat, what their fears and jealousies did utter ; yea, hath made them inquire with wonder, whence they are so cheerful to-day, who yesternight were so broken and crushed ; whence their spirit should be in so sweet a calm, that so lately was like the raging and troubled sea.
5. That this hath oft met them, as a blessed sur- prisal, and unexpected welcome, when they have in a backsliding case come in to God, they certainly know ; that when they knew not how to adventure, and at what end of their raveled condition to begin, counts having run long over, yet on their very first address, have got a sweet disappointment to their fears, been helped to their feet, yea, sometimes have had as it were the fatted calf killed, to make merry with their friends.
6. That which hath an audible voice within, so strong an impression upon the soul, which carrieth with it such a clear satisfying discovery of God's heart and love, is surely no delusion ; while the inti- mation of that one truth, " Your sins are forgiven," or any other word of promise for that end, they have found to be an argument beyond words, which they could not resist, but for the time, have been as sure they see and feel this, as that they live ; yea, can no more now call it in question, than formerly they could get it believed. '
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7. That is no delusion, which causeth them with another kind of freedom approach to God ; maketh them know there is a spirit of adoption which sets the soul at liberty from the sore bondage and thral- dom, under which their former backsliding had put them ; yea, a thing not only sensibly felt by them- selves, but may be discerned by others, while they cannot smother the joy of their heart, or hide in their countenance, such a change of their condition, that truly God hath dealt comfortably with them.
8. Have not this the saints in all ages witnessed, even a joy unspeakable, and full of glory, which though but of short continuance, yet for the present so strong, as hath ravished their soul with the hope of the inheritance above, and clear view of their in- terest in it ; yea, sometimes made them sing for joy, in expectation of that blessed day % But, oh, this is better felt than expressed !
9. And in a word, can that be a delusion, that hath oft turned the poor man's hell into a heaven ; which trysts the Christian in the way of his duty, and the work doth so exactly answer the promise, most sensibly after greatest shakings of the conscience by the law ; and can make a sad outward lot so very sweet and pleasant ; cause them triumph over the wrath of men, to sing in a dungeon, to abound and have all things under greatest wants, look grim death cheerfully in the face in its most dreadful aspect ; yea, doth make so great and visible a difference betwixt the Christian and himself 1
The sixth instance, is that promise of encourage- ment and support under the cross, which is expressly held forth in the word, that the Lord will own his people, bear their charges, and be with them in trou-
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ble, in the day of their suffering for his truth ; yea,, will bind up the broken in heart, and heal their wounds, (Psal. xci. 15 ; Isa. xiiii. 2, xli. 17, xlix. 15 ; Psal. ix. 9 ; Isa. li. 12).
Now, that this promise is a truth, and hath a cer- tain accomplishment, the experience of the saints in all ages will witness, and we know their testimony is true ; what at solemn times of God's presence, they haye had in a barren wilderness ; how great a cloud of witnesses doth seal this, and give their testimony to the cross of Christ ; of which we may say, the fame and sweet savour have gone forth, and spread abroad through the church, the fathers have told it to the children, and one generation to another ; but how little a part thereof can be expressed ! I think it would be a marvellous record, if the suffering, and prison experiments of the saints, were particularly set down ; what they have found under the cross. But it is well ; we know this promise hath been, and this day is evidently sealed, concerning which I dare at- test the experience of as many as did ever drink of this blessed cup, and were counted worthy to suffer for the testimony of Christ, if this be not a faithful and true witness :
First, That they have oft tasted what communion with God is, in the secret duties of a Christian, also in the public ordinances, and in a special measure, at some more solemn times, but, oh, never knew his pre- sence and communion with him more sensibly than under the cross ; yea, have found that the work and service of a suffering time, as it is not the ordinary service of every day, hath also a peculiar and more tli an ordinary allowance.
2. That they never knew divine strength more
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sensibly, than when they have been most pressed above their own strength ; that in the day they -were cast on God's immediate care, and ordinary means of their help most withdrawn, they had never less cause to complain ; but might often say this as their experience, " They thirsted not when he led them through the wilderness :" yea, that they have no time of their life found their mercies more observ- ably tryst them, more sweet and satisfying, than when by prayer and believing they were put to dig the well, and wait for the rain coming down to fill it.
3. That they never found more true liberty, than in the house of bondage ; more refreshing company, than amidst their greatest solitude, while they found ITim near, whom gates and bars cannot shut out, in the day when all things else seemed to frown upon them ; that their midnight songs have been sweeter, than all the prosperity they sometimes enjoyed ; and that they have oft proved, that the deeper any are in affliction for Christ and his truth, they are also the deeper in consolation.
4. They must say, the most satisfying and clear discoveries of the word, are under searching and sharpest trials ; that a sanctified exercised affliction they have found one of the best interpreters of the Bible, and the word then to be another thing than it is at other times, yea, even to have been that to them which they could desire it to be ; so as they are sure it hath been shaped out, and directed for that present plunge their soul was in.
5. That there is a very easy passage and dispatch ' betwixt heaven and an oppressed afflicted soul ; an
observable vent by prayer, and more sensible access to God's face, when other things have most frowned ;
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yea, tliey can witness from experience, he stayeth his rough wind, in the day of his east wind ; while he shutteth one door, he hath set another open ; that when the storm without hath been yery sharp, they have found a sweet calm and sun-shine within to make it easy ; and when he layeth on one sore trial, he will take another off.
6. They can tell what a sweet comfortable parting they have oft had with some sharp trial, which at the first was bitter as death ; but in the close, after sanctified exercise under the same, they have found cause to leave it their blessing, and confess that the time of greatest jealousy and fear upon their part, they have found, on God's part, hath been a time of greatest kindness and love ; the sharpest wounds from such a hand and heart as his, have tended to a cure ; yea, that circumstance and ingredient in the same, which of all was most bitter and grievous, even there they have found their out-gate and encouragement most remarkable.
7. That the peculiar advantage of a sanctified trial is not so well seen as afterwards, when the case hath altered : then, they found a long and rough storm re- compenced at their landing, with a rich loading of ex- perience ; another kind of discovery of God, his way, and the certainty of his word, than they formerly had won to ; so as now they can speak of him, and the good of the cross, and adventuring any things for Christ, with some greater esteem, on another ground than report, or a hearing thereof by the ear.
8. I shall add, what hath been the frequent testi- mony of those who ever endured tribulation for the gospel, that their remembrance and after-reckoning upon this account hath not been sad or bitter, when
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they sat down, and compared their gain with their loss, their up-making with these days of trial that have gone over their head ; that they would not then exchange their experience, or want what they have found by the cross, no, not for many more days of trouble and affliction.
The seventh instance, is that promise of the word, which integrity in an evil time hath, that it shall pre- serve their steps, and be the best mean to help those through, that keep God's way ; yea, even in this life they shall not want some witness of God's respect, (Psal. xviii. 25, cxii. 4 ; Rev. iii. 10).
Now, to hold forth the accomplishment of this, I may with confidence appeal to the observation of the saints in all ages, who ever made it their serious study to keep their garments clean in a time of trial, if their experience hath not this testimony to give :
First, that though at present, honesty in evil times hath brought them into hazard, and with Joseph to a prison, yet, it hath brought them out also, with observable advantage ; yea, however the Lord did order their out-gate, they have found this did land them well, and always bring them to a comfortable harbourage.
2. That honesty and faithfulness have an autho- rity, even on the conscience of their enemies, and leave usually a conviction upon them ; yea, have forced a testimony and approbation from such men ; and they have oft found better entertainment, than these who in a sinful way have sought to please them.
3. They have found this always the choicest ex- pedient, and best policy in a dangerous time, which hath observably met them, when they had most to do ; a thing whereof they have reaped the fruits in
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tlie day of their strait, and times of judgment ; yea, though it hath occasioned sometimes their sufferings, yet it hath been also their safety and protection from sadder sufferings.
4. That though integrity is oft under a dark cloud of reproach, yet it winneth still well out from under the same, and hath shined usually more bright after- ward ; so as they might have had cause to observe, what unexpected means the Lord hath made use of, for their clearing.
5. That while their enemies might have (were it not for the preventing goodness of God) quarrelled upon some other ground, they have been observably led to pursue, and make them the butt of their malice for their honesty, and that wherein they have peace before God ; and have been keeped from hitting on the right cause.
6. They find how unspeakably sweet this is, upon an after reckoning, and in the evening of their life, that then they reap a comfortable harvest, of that they have sown with much suffering and tears. Oh, then, it doth not repent them, that integrity was their choice !
7. They have sometimes found a hundred fold, even in this life, and an observable up-making in that which they have been willing to lose and hazard most.
8. They must also say, integrity was never their ruin, but an out-gate was oft brought about in a way they could not have expected ; yea, the Lord's shut- ting all other doors upon them hath been, that he might open one himself, like Hagar's well springing up in the wilderness.
9. That in making their aim, when they had a large heart for God, they have not theri wanted an
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opportunity for evidencing the same : their encourage- ment hath abounded with their duty, and they have got much in, in giving much out for Christ; that there was no such feast in the world, as they have sensibly found in the testimony of a good conscience.
The eighth instance, is that promise, which is held forth to the Christian in the word, of strength and assistance to go about duties, (Isa. xl. 29, 30, 31; Psal. xviii. 6, 39, lxxxiv. 5, lxviii. 28).
To clear this, that it hath an unquestionable per- formance, I attest the experience of the generation of the righteous. "Who ever knew what it was to serve the Lord in the spirit, who by many sensible confirmations have not proven the certainty of these things \
First, That when they have gone about duty under much deadness, and straitness of spirit, they have found a very sensible enlargement, and got their bonds loosed ; which surely they could no more com- mand, without the concurrence of divine help, and something above nature, than those who spread out the sail, can command a fair wind, when it is cross.
2. That God's help and concurrence] were never more discernible in carrying^them through, and mak- ing them strong, than in the day that, to their own sense, they were most weak ; when they have gone about duty under greatest fears, and fainting in spirit.
3. That when they had most confidence in them- selves, and judged they were at greatest advantage in their going about some duty, they have usually had the saddest retreat, and found that a sure truth, " The race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong."
4. They know well what an influence divine con-
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eurrence hath, not only upon their inward frame, but also upon the exercise of their gifts, yea, upon the common stabilities of judgment and memory; and that there is a most remarkable difference betwixt themselves at one time and another, according to the blowing of this wind.
5. They must also witness this as their experience, that they found duty never more easy to them, than when they have had most to do, and were keeped throngest therein ; yea, when much work was laid on their hand, they then wanted not an enlarged allow- ance for the same.
6. That their spirits have been fitted for duty, and carried through difficulties, where at some other time, and in another frame, they would have fainted, and 'thereby seen, that none needs to scar at any piece of duty, when God calleth them to it ; for while difficulties have appeared greatest at first, the less they have found them afterward, yea, the hardest piece of service, oft made most easy.
7. They find, that God doth raise the spirit of his followers, with a suitable elevation for their work, and can fit them for the service of that time, and other trials thereof, even beyond their ordinary reach.
8. That there is an open door, and sensible assist- ance, when there hath been work for the gospel in such a place ; while on the other hand, they have found an inhibition sensibly served on them, the door as it were shut when the tide was going back, and the word of the gospel at a stand in such a part.
9. That it is not greatest abilities which make un- dertakings successful, it being in vain to rise up early without the Lord.
10. It hath oft been their experience, that in fol-
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lowing the way of God, his candle did then shine upon their paths, the Spirit of the Lord was with them, and sensibly let out ; the withdrawing whereof hath been no less discernible, while they turned aside from him, that they have then been put to bear the bur- den alone, and found difficulty and despondency of spirit at once growing upon their hand.
11. I may add what these who are serious in re- ligion have oft tried, that there is no such help and furniture for going about duties, as a spiritual frame and nearness with God ; for then, light and counsel, inward freedom, and sweet composure of spirit, have brought most sensible advantage to them : in their greatest, yea, and most common undertakings, this hath been very evident.
The ninth instance is, that great promise we have, (Horn. viii. 28), " That all things shall work together for good to them who love God," and (Psal. xxv. 10), " All the paths of the Lord are mercy and truth, to such as keep his covenant." I confess, it is not easy sometimes to reconcile God's way, and this piece of his word together : those who take only an ordinary passing look of providence, cannot well judge, how such things, wherewith oft the godly in their life are trysted, should contribute to their good and advan- tage, while nothing would seem more directly cross to the same. But the Christian, and wise observer, can give another account. They know what a sure truth this is, that there is no real jar betwixt the promise and providence of God in this matter ; and whatever be the present thoughts, patient on-waiting hath had cause to say this :
1. When His way and their thoughts have most differed, in the accomplishment of his word, and
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bringing about their mercy, they have found it was to their advantage, that his choice was always better than theirs ; yea, they have been oft made to confess, that their saddest disappointments therein have tended to their further up-making.
2. That the Lord's denying them some outward thing which they have most desired, they have found (as afterwards hath appeared) was to grant them more than their desire : he hath refused them as it were an Ishmael, that he might give them an Isaac.
3. They can oft say, they had been undone if they had not been undone ; that it was their mercy the Lord took such a way to cast them into a fever, to prevent a lethargy ; and by some sharp cross gave them a wound in the flesh, to cure and let out some gross impostume in their soul, which should have made their case worse.
4. How greatest shakings have helped their further establishment, so as they were never more confirmed, than in that about which they have been most brangled ; yea, they have also found this the Lord's way to cure their frowardness and misbelief, by some further addition to their cross, that when they would not believe, he hath caused them to come in upon a greater disadvantage ; while as a small affliction hath made them impatient, a more heavy and pressing trouble hath been their cure, and helped them to keep silence under God's hand.
5. That the growing of difficulties in their way, and some further pressure in the trial, they have found it was from the Lord, in order to it: removal, and to the bringing forth of some greater good ; and that all visible grounds of confidence have been oft broken, but with this up-making, that their mercy they had
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it more immediately out of God's own Land ; yea, that the less moderation was, whilst their trial hath come to an extremity, they have found it then upon the turn, and their hope and encouragement oft made to spring up therewith.
6. How the Lord's deferring their mercy, which they had oft sought, hath been indeed their mercy and advantage, which did always tryst them in the season ; yea, they must say, his way is always nearest ; and waiting on God, without making haste, doth truly make the quickest dispatch.
7. Their experience can also witness, how men's reproach, and uttering their malice that way, to ruin their reputation, hath oft been the very mean ordered by the Lord, to bring forth their further clearing and vindication, even by that very mean.
8. How by some sad cross he doth oft prevent a sadder, which though strange at first, they have been forced, upon after-discovery, to confess. The man, who riding in haste to the sea-port, to have passage over seas with a ship going then off, fell and broke his leg by the way, which was the saving of his life, for the ship, and all its passengers perished in that voyage ; yet this was a bitter astonishing providence to him for the present.
9. How their loss, even by some sad slip and fail- ing in their spiritual condition, hath really tended to their further humbling and advantage; yea, that which brought them under some visible decay, as to the wonted lustre of their Christian profession, hath help- ed them to grow more under ground, to the root and substantials of Christianity.
10. They can tell how these steps of the provi- dence of God, which seemed most cross to that de-
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sign he was carrying on, yea, looked like the very crushing of their hope, have oft been the very mean which hath wrought most effectually to bring about their mercy.
11. I shall add but this, as the Christian's witness to the truth of this promise, that sharpest reproofs have seemed the wounds of a friend ; most pressing straits been made the mean for their further enlarge- ment ; how the Lord hath brought them into some dark and plunging trial, which then looked like a fearful pit, that he might bring them out with ad- vantage, set their feet upon a rock, and establish their goings ; yea, that in the hottest furnace they lost nothing, but what they might well spare, even some of their dross.
The tenth instance I shall here set down, is that general promise made to godliness, and those who make it their serious study, that it shall be great gain ; that verily it shall be well with the righteous, for they shall eat the fruit of their labour, and in keeping of the command there is a great reward, (1 Tim. vi. 6; 1 Pet. iii. 12, 13 ; Psal. xix. 11).
This is indeed a great concerning truth, but a truth, which I am sure none who did ever make earnest of religion will call in question. Many sure convincing experiments hath the Christian had thereof through his life. Such want not some diary and record, wherein they can cast up the advantage they have reaped in close following of God, and their duty ; yea, from most remarkable providences they may oft say, " This I had, because I keeped thy precepts." Now, that this promise hath a large witness, I shall here touch some things, which I may with some con- fidence say, both in the present, and in former times,
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have been proved and sealed by the saints in their ex- perience :
1. That they never more effectually consulted their good and advantage, than when they did with great- est singleness consult their duty, and least with flesh and blood; they did never more truly seek them- selves, than in the practice of self-denial ; yea, in that they intended God most, and least their private interest, they have therein found a very sensible up- making.
2. That a serious endeavour to walk before God acceptably, they have found still the best policy, even in the worst of times, and have found his way then very satisfying, while it was most their study how to please him ; yea, they have been obliged to confess, that when the Lord's way was their choice, they have found it also their reward.
3. They have found more real joy and peace in withstanding temptations, than in any thing the temp- tation offered ; and in laying their interest at God's feet, and their will underneath his, more than in all their carnal enjoyments. Oh, the taste and testimony of God's approbation ; how sweet a smile is his, in whose countenance heaven lieth !
4. That inward peace and tranquillity of mind, a sweet calm and composure of spirit, doth as really at- tend a spiritual frame and walk, as the shadow the body; and their best, and most comfortable days wherein they have truly walked at liberty, have been, when their heart was most subject to the law, with a single respect to the same.
5. That religion and a spiritual walk is the besfc friend, even as to a contented and comfortable life here in the world ; and that they have then most ac-
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cess to enjoy themselves and their lot with satisfac- tion, when they enjoy God ; yea, that nearness and communion with him, tendeth to the sublimating and refining of their natural spirit, and hath been an observable help to their very common abilities and parts.
6. That there is truly a reality in the blessing, which maketh a small thing signify much, and yield more than greater abundance.
7. That when they give God their heart, it is then sweet, and matter of satisfaction to observe his ways, and their observation thereof is very refreshing ; how far the Lord condescends to their desires, when they sum them all up in himself, and make him their delight.
8. That the pleasure of religion is in the practice thereof, and the way to have religion easy, is to be throughly religious ; duty is then sweet, when men do it from an inward principle ; and holiness should be a more pleasant work, yea, a reward to itself, if there were less mixture of hypocrisy.
9. That real humility, and walking low in their own eyes, and before God, did never lose to them respect and credit from men ; but self-abasement doth observably go before lifting up, and true honour fol- loweth such, who least hunt after vain applause from the world.
10. That when they were more faithful to observe and improve a little, for their encouragement more hath been added ; and they never wanted matter to be thankful, when opportunities laid to their hand were improved, and taken hold of for that end : yea, they have found there is a mercy within a mercy, and
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some peculiar mercy in every cross, which is only found and brought forth by the exercised serious im- prover of the same.
11. That much sincerity hath also much sense following the same ; secret honesty before God hath met them openly before men, and faithfulness in Christian freedom purchased them more favour and respect even from the worst, then when they studied most to please them in a sinful way.
12. That they never saw more clearly the gain, and real advantage of godliness, and what a difference there is betwixt those that serve God, and those that serve him not, as in a time of trouble and strait ; how that in tenderness their former walk, and that which they entertained in the morning, doth now meet them at night, and pay them home with advantage in an hour of temptation.
13. They have been forced to observe, that there is an invisible guard about His people in their duty ; that the ministry of the angels toward such, is no de- lusion ; and have oft been made to wonder, how ha- zard within a hair-breadth hath been prevented, relief and help come as betwixt the bridge and the water ; how they have been sensibly preserved amidst greatest dangers, while, as it were, an inhibition hath been served upon these, that they should come near, but not hurt, and only met with them, that they might read their preservation from them.
14. That an enlarged heart doth meet with an en- larged allowance ; and bearing burden with others of the people of God, hath helped to make their own private burden the lighter.
15. That real godliness and religion hath as much in hand, as may be a reward to itself ; which beau-
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tifieth the soul, and maketh the face and conversation to shine with an observable lustre ; that guardeth and preserveth the heart from many vexing crosses ; pre- venteth sad strokes and sorrows that others are pierced with, who will follow their idols and the ways of sin, which are bitter in the close.
In a word, this is surely found, that God is the best friend, and when there is peace with him, things with- out do not offend ; but they shall then understand what it is to be in league with the beasts of the field, and stones of the ground, having a sweet agreement with all the providences and dispensations that come in their way.
V. That the scripture-threatenings have also a cer- tain accomplishment, are found to be sad earnest, and do not fall to the ground, the Christian can also seal from his experience.
It is not here to be understood the threatenings of wrath, (from which believers are freed in Christ) but of a fatherly displeasure, which because of sin may draw deep, yea, bring forth very dreadful effects, to witness, that it is an evil and bitter thing to depart from God, and that their own doings shall chastise them. And these theatenings of the covenant, " If thy children forsake my law, I will punish their trans- gression with rods," (Psal. lxxxix. 30-32), are sure truths, which want not in every time a performance.
To clear this, (ere I speak any thing particularly) I would premise some things to be considered :
1. That the word is a perpetual rule, which in every time must take place ; and though affliction is a piece of the common misery of man, yet doth it not arise out of the dust, neither fall out at an adventure ; but doth oft visibly follow the tract of sin, as a sleuth-
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hound, pointing at such, evils as the cause, by the stroke, and at the truth and fulfilling of the threaten- ings written upon both.
2. We should adore His sovereignty, whose way, both in the measure and manner of his people's chas- tisement is so various, as that none can infallibly con- clude what he is to do in such a case ; I mean, we are not to limit the Lord to such a way and method in his working. Yet, this we may assert, and firmly conclude, that not only the threatenings of the word have a performance, but men may also have, even before-hand, some more than probable conjecture, yea, a clear discovery, what such a case doth threaten, and what will be the issue of a sinful course, by con- sidering the Lord's ordinary procedure both with themselves and others ; how sin hath very sad effects, and his way in all ages is still uniform, agreeing with itself, and with the word.
3. Though a gracious state doth surely privilege from wrath and condemnation, yet not from affliction, and sad strokes of divine anger because of sin ; for He taketh vengeance on men's inventions, even when He will spare the inventors.
4. The Lord doth oft contend with his people for their folly and miscarriages, more severely than with others, and will not let pass in them that which he passeth by in the world, without being a reprover : but when light, and love, and the law, will not hedge in their way, he will set briers and thorns before them ; yea, speak by chastisement upon their bones, to withdraw men from their purpose.
5. It is known, how very deep the holy anger of God may draw against his children, even sometimes to pursue them out of the land of the living, and fol-
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low them to the grave with some remarkable stroke ; yea, it hath made them dreadful examples of judg- ment in this life, for whom he hath accepted an eter- nal sacrifice in Christ.
6. I shall add, this is the Lord's blessed end in making out his threatenings against his people, that they should not perish with the world. Oh, what a blessed exchange is it, that the flaming sword which once stood to guard the tree of life, doth now stand as it were in the way of the saints, to keep them from running into the paths of death !
Having premised these things, I shall now instance some particular evils, wherewith the godly are ready to be overtaken, which the word doth expressly threaten, and hold forth the hazard of, both as to outward and spiritual strokes ; and give in here the Christian's witness, from their experience in all ages of the truth of these threatenings.
First, Security and carnal confidence, which we find the word doth threaten, is an evil wherewith Chris- tians are ready to be overtaken ; but they do also know by sad experience, what bitter fruit this brings forth, and that therein the word falleth not to the ground, which is held forth in Hos. ii. 1, 9, vii. 9 ; Isa. xxx. 16, 17.
1. That a secure condition is the usual forerunner of some sad change ; that when they are most at ease in a dull and dead temper of spirit, some sharp rous- ing dispensation is upon the back of it ; either a gross sin, or a searching cross, as a thorn in the bed of their security, to put them to their feet.
2. That seldom reckoning with the conscience, the running on of counts for some time upon their hand, doth ravel their case unto a sad confusion, and mak-
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eth it a bitter and heartless work to retire alone, or within themselves ; yea, hath a most direct tendency to a farther hardening, and real up-giving with their duty.
3. That when security and deadness groweth within, it quickly maketh them dry up and wither without, in the external performance of duty, and in that vigorous, lively appearance which did formerly lustre their walk and carriage before others ; so as very by- standers may read the languishing of grace, in the dead exercise of their gifts.
4. That going about duty with most confidence in themselves, doth usually give them the most clear discovery of their weakness ; yea, when they have least looked for any cross, they have then been sure to meet with it ; with that sad addition, of being a surprisal in a secure condition. "Whereas, on the other hand, they may tell, what refreshing disappoint- ments they have got, where some trials have been most feared and looked for.
5. That secure sporting with a temptation, may soon turn to sad earnest ; and they have found it very hard to dance about the fire, and not be burnt ; and the temptation, which at a distance seemed small, upon a nearer approach, they have found had more bands on their heart, and was another thing than they could have believed.
6. That the means whereon they have laid most weight, they have also found, have given them the saddest disappointment ; the putting of them in God's room, and out of their own place, hath been the way to cause them miscarry, yea, to turn their cross ; whereas they have oft seen something unexpected, made the mean of their help, that they might know
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means are ordered of the Lord, and are useful, be- cause lie maketh them so.
7. Their experience can also witness, that carnal confidence, despising the trial at a distance, is usually punished with carnal diffidence, and despondency of spirit under the same ; one extremity made the pun- ishment of the other, like the hot and cold fits of an ague, which do mutually make one the other more intense ; yea, that their immoderate confidence and expectation of a thing, hath after resolved into as immoderate discouragement, as their stroke.
Second, The Christian's unwatchfulness, and inter- mitting in the exercise of that so necessary and com- manded duty, we find the word threateneth, and hold- eth forth the hazard thereof, " Lest ye enter into temptation ;" the out-making whereof, th^ir experi- ence can also witness, (Luke xxi. 34, 36 ; Matt, xxvi. 41).
1. That it is not easy to guide their walk and con- versation, when their guard over the heart doth slacken ; but the giving loose reins for a little, may make such a sad and large breach, that many, many days will not easily make up ; yea, they do also know, how a sensible withdrawing of the Spirit, and drying up of their life and liberty, is the usual fruit which unwatchfulness brings forth.
2. That this helpeth to make their sun-blinks short, causeth a low ebb after the greatest enlargement, whilst they do not guard against their peculiar evils ; and that usually there doth haunt such a condition, the swelling of the flesh, when the spirit is most en- larged, which will soon put them as far behind, as they formerly thought themselves at an advantage.
3. That when once the heart lieth open, it is
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quickly seized on, and made a prey. With "what a bitter sting doth it return, after it hath taken liberty to wander % yea, doth find there is a swift progress that sin hath from the thoughts, to the rolling of it to the imagination, and thence to the affection, where- with it is more easy to engage, than to shake this off.
4. That unwatchfulness hath oft turned the most special times and opportunities for advantage to the greatest loss, which through their neglect of these, hath put them further behind than they were : it hath turned their retirement and solitude, to be their snare ; made the desert worse and more dangerous than the city ; and made them find that vain thoughts, the following whereof seemeth pleasant to the mouth, will prove gall and wormwood in the belly, there be- ing no sadder company than a man's spirit let loose upon itself, whilst they cannot stop that current, whereto they had given a vent.
5. Their experience of this can witness, that un- watchfulness hath an undoubted tendency to cast off prayer. How hard is it in the evening, to retire to God, whilst the heart is abroad all the day ; to be religious in worship, when men are not so in their walk ! Yea, they do find, that this will bring their distemper within, out at doors, to some disorder, im- pertinency, or passion in their words, or outward com- munication ; a thing which experience may tell, doth wound the soul, make a sad breach in their peace, and doth quickly overcloud the spirit, and unfit them for communion with God, and going about of spiritual duties.
Third, To restrain prayer, and neglect calling on God, is an evil also which the word doth threaten, and hold forth the same hazard thereof, as of un-
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watchfulness, " lest ye enter into temptation :" yea, that this is even a step to the casting off fear, the Christian's experience, from frequent trial, can wit- ness, that this scripture threatening is true, (Matt. xxvi. 41 ; Job xv. 4),
1. That they have found this the rise, which giveth life and increase to their prevailing evils, and that corruption then is upon a sensible growth, as the lively exercise of prayer begins to be intermitted.
2. That this weareth out their spiritual life, and bringeth a consumption upon the vital spirits of Chris- tianity, so that those who sometimes nourished, and kept green, as by the scent of water, that correspond- ence which they had with the fountain of their life, while his dew did lie all night on their branches, have, through neglect of prayer, been brought to a poor shadow ; so that, although sometimes the great- ness of their loss and distemper hath been hid from themselves, yet, it might be easily discerned by on- lookers.
3. That wearing out of prayer, and of delight therein, will quickly make them disrelish any other piece of religion, put them out of frame to meditate, or to give thanks, or entertain fellowship with the saints ; yea, the more lively and spiritual these are, it maketh them the more a burden, and torment to them.
4. That wearing out of this, is a strong temptation to a further forbearance, and will sensibly wear them out of any sense of their need thereof, and make them strangers to themselves, and to their own case, so that they shall find, the less they are in this exercise, the further they shall be indisposed ; and the fewer errands they have, the less felt necessity of the same.
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5. Their experience can also witness, that little prayer maketh a heavy burden ; doth multiply their straits, and cause their care grow, as this is abated. They must then bear their burden alone, and with heaviness take counsel within themselves, while they ply not this blest tried remedy, to make their request known to God.
Fourth, "We find the word doth threaten defection from the truth, and turning from the way of God in a time of trial, as an evil, into which those who are kept by grace from final apostacy, may yet, through the violence of a temptation fall, (Jer. ix. 13, 15 ; Psal. lxxxix. 30, 32 ; Josh. vii. 11) ; and their sad experience can witness the truth of the Scripture threatenings concerning this also, while they have found,
1. That in one day they may adventure on that which through most of their life, they have not won above, but hath made them go with their back bowed down to the grave ; that their giving the Lord's work a wrong touch, is one of those things which doth scarcely leave them all their time ; but, beyond other sins, they have found this still come up with a bitter and heavy reflection : yea, in the evening of their life they have found this so sore on their spirit, that it could not lie hid or silent, but they were forced to witness their sense of it before the world, ere they could win to any ease.
2. That this, the Lord doth usually meet with some sharp and public reproof, even before men ; that though he pardon his people, yea, give some sensible intimation thereof to their souls, yet, he hath not passed them, as to some visible mark of his displeasure, because of such a thing.
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3. They see, that a crooked and uncleanly way proves not the mean of extricating them out of trouble, but their straits have been made to grow therewith ; yea, they have found that whieh they eschewed in God's way, hath more sadly trysted them in another road ; and that there is a thick dreg in the bottom of the cup, which maketh it worse to drink thereof at the close, than at the beoinninpf.
4. That it is not easy to make a stand, in turning aside from the way of God, when once they are en- gaged ; a retrograde motion is very violent, and yielding in a little, will bring with it some necessity of going further, as a judicial stroke.
5. That sitting still in some clear opportunity to give a testimony for the truth, when called thereto, hath turned to be their judgment, that they should not have further access, or be made useful that way ; a thing truly obvious to such, as are wise to observe the judgments of God in their time : yea, likewise, that public backsliding doth oft visibly wear men out of personal tenderness.
Fifth, Unsubduedness of spirit, and want of mor- tification to outward things, the word doth clearly threaten, and hold out its hazard; the accomplish- ment whereof Christians' experience can witness, (Rom. viii. 6, 7).
1. That God hath oft turned their idol to be their cross ; put a mark of his jealousy on their dearest things, when once they put them in his room ; yea, frequent observation of the Lord's way both with themselves and others, doth shew, if they would be quit of a thing, they may set their heart immode- rately on it ; such eagerness and exorbitancy of af-
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fection being a sure presage, that it shall either be their judgment or sorrow, or cease to be.
2. That outward things did never yield less than while they pressed them most ; that when they are eager in pursuit of the world, and satisfaction there, their spirits are sensibly hurried with many pertur- bations ; so that they must say, That which keepeth them from enjoying of God, doth also hinder the comfortable enjoying of themselves.
3. They have found, that slow advance in the work of mortification, hath at last doubled their smart, and been the concurring cause of some very sharp cure, when the disease did come to that height, that a small and ordinary potion could not do the turn.
4. That immoderate desire, and pressing after an outward thing, they have sometimes got answered, but therewith a sharp reproof from the Lord ; yea, usually have found small satisfaction in their enjoying that, about which they were so unsober in their pur- suit. " Give children, or else I die," said Rachel : she got children, and she died in bringing one of them forth.
5. Their experience can also witness, how over- caring anxiety hath oft caused things thrive worse under their hand ; whilst they found never a more satisfying issue in a particular, than by a quiet sub- missive dependence on the Lord for the same.
Sixth, The doing violence to light, and sinning with a witness against the conscience, as it is clearly threatened in the word, so likewise the sad effects thereof have been clearly witnessed in all ages, (Prov. xxix. 1 ; Psal. Ixxxi. 11, 12).
1. "What a direct tendency this hath to the fur- ther darkening of their light, and to a judicial bar-
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dening ; and that reproofs not entertained, do usually become less frequent, yea, less pungent and searching. Their heart then doth not so easily smite them, and put the tear in their eye, as sometimes a word, or secret rebuke of the conscience would have done ; so as they can now digest greater things, who would sometimes have stood at that, which comparatively was very small.
2. That when they would not read their bosom- distemper, which both by the word and conscience was pointed out, others have got leave to read the same written on their forehead ; and the shifting of discovered guilt, and of all serious endeavour to get the quarrel taken up in secret, betwixt God and them, hath brought the matter at last to some public hear- ing, even before the generation.
3. That their darkening of their light upon some private interest, while they would again and again inquire, if such a thing be warrantable, concerning which the Lord had once cleared their mind, is a most perilous thing ; yea, hath got an answer accord- ing to the idol of their heart, and their choice made to be their judgment.
I shall but add, what bitter and sad experience can tell, how dreadful it is to give the conscience a wramp,* which is more easily hurt than healed ; that deliberate adventuring on the occasion of a tempta- tion, when they would go to the High Priest's hall without warrant, or a calling, hath cost them dear ; and they have found, that bold sinning doth after- ward make faint believing.
I know it is by the serious and experienced Chris- tians, and by these only, that this argument in the
* Sprain.
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meaning thereof can be reached ; and it is sure, such will not debate the same, who know the truth, and have it dwelling in them, and on another ground than report, are established in its certainty ; for these can witness, what sweet comforting hours they have had with Jesus Christ, in a sad uncomfortable time ; that he hath both spoken, and himself also hath done it, and must therefore seal his word and the truth there- of, because he hath sealed it on their heart ; yea, do so surely know, it is God who worketh all their works in them, that with their last words and dying breath, they have confidence to assert this, and commend that excellent study of godliness to others.
I know that with a great many of the world, this grave convincing argument of experience hath no weight ; for strangers intermeddle not with that joy, and therefore fancy it a pure fiction, as the only ex- pedient and preservative to their heart, from the hor- ror and inexpressible torment, which must seize on them, if the certainty and necessity of godliness were granted ; these scoff at this excellent thing, as some vain conceit or distemper, because they would have it so. But with such, I must here crave a serious and free communing ; yea, in so great and concerning a business, I must obtest, they "would not shut their eyes, but allow reason that weight, they would do in any other case. Oh, what do you allege 1 on what ground do you reject this great witness of experience \ If you deny it, because you have not found it, do not others assert this, because they surely know it ? And their assertion hath these two advantages, 1. That they once had the same sentiment and opinion with you, which now they reflect on with much horror. 2. The reality of its effects on them proves both the
H
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reality of tlie cause, and the excellency thereof. And now, if these be indeed serious, and their testimony true, whom you thus challenge, are you not in a sad and dreadful case, since you cannot think to lodge together at night, or that your interest and theirs will meet in another world, which hath been so very opposite here by the way \ You must surely part with those at death, and land at some other port, to whom all your life you have walked so cross % Oh, sit but with yourselves alone, and consider this ! You hate serious religion, and therefore you reproach it ; will you take such a revenge on yourselves, and out of prejudice to it, run on so great and eternal a ruin % But know assuredly, it is not what you judged ; and if once you pass into this delusion, that great and last step betwixt time and eternity, you are undone, oh, undone for ever ! And sure if you admit the authority of this Scripture, you cannot debate the Christian's experience, while there you have so great a cloud of witnesses, who bear that same testimony ; but it is on yourself you must reflect, not on the truth, that you know so little in this way.
Now, to leave some conviction on the atheists of this time, and those who take liberty to scoff at seri- ous religion, I would here offer some rational grounds, which even to the world and bystanders may con- vincingly demonstrate, if they would but consider the same in earnest, that this testimony the saints do in all ages bear, from their experience, to the truths, can be no cunning device or falsehood, but is most certain and true ; for,
1. That must be a sure testimony, and is no cheat, if you judge that those who declare the same, have the sense of a Deity, and have any truth, or moral
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candour ; for it is a clear dilemma, that~either such, whose witness this is, are impostors of the highest degree, yea, in atheism and gross deceit, must exceed all the world beside ; or, it is true and valid what they witness. Now, for the first, I shall crave no more in their behalf, but to appeal to your conscience and sober thoughts, if you could judge thus.
2. This testimony must be sure, if you but allow these the use of judgment and reason who bear it, and do not judge them wholly demented ; for it were a strange and unheard of madness, that men would pur- sue a shadow with so great seriousness, and on this interest venture so far, if religion and the power thereof were not a reality. Sure one of these two must hold ; if Christians do not experience themselves, what they hold out to others, that they are either in the highest measure profligate and wicked, even beyond the ordinary rate and depravation of human nature ; or, they must be under a strange madness and delirium ; they must either design to cheat the world, or themselves. But though their adversaries could wish to have it so, I think their malice will not make them so mad, as to own that challenge ; and since these cannot be alleged, I profess, were I the greatest atheist who did not own the Scripture, I could not seriously consider the way and walk of such who are tender Christians without astonishment ; or conceive, how in such a world, and at so many visible disadvantages they should be thus engaged, on any other consideration, than the truth and reality of Christianity.
3. Do you not see, this is their testimony, who are willing to be tried therein, and render a reason of that hope which is in them % — yea, do in this offer
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themselves to trial, and with, greatest seriousness ob- test the world, not to credit implicitly their witness, and take it on trust, but themselves put it to the most exact inquiry and search 1 And truly, if there be an appeal and reference to men's sense and feeling, which can admit no debate, I know not what access they have to question this witness, until they first put it to an essay, that from their own experience they could contradict the same.
4. Should you not admit this for a sure testimony, if you grant any moral certainty of a thing, that there is some case, wherein a human testimony can allow no debate ; which in this present case must be unde- niable % For you know, by two witnesses a matter is judicially established : but is it not more confirm- ing, when they are of known judgment and integrity ? yea, out of diverse, and remote places of the earth, and otherwise strangers amongst themselves 1 but yet more, not only that when dying they own and assert this, but are willing to die upon a testimony thereto, and seal it with their blood, and this also through all ages renewed \ Oh, what can be more convincing as to moral certainty \ Now, I do attest the world, if this argument of Christian experience, have not as full and unanswerable proofs of its certainty.
5. This witness can be no counterfeit, and you must judge they are worthy of credit, to verify the Scripture from experience, on whose practice you see it so convincingly transcribed. Should not the declaration of such, anent the truth of the promise, have much weight, whilst you see what a serious respect those have to the rule, to have their walk ordered in that way, where the Scripture warrants them to expect the fulfilling of the promise \ And
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are not those seen to be the most tender serious Chris- tians, whose way useth to have greatest authority oyer your conscience, who do most own this witness, and have the largest account to give thereof I
6. Is not this their testimony also, whom on your exactest and narrowest notice, you may see study re- ligion in the secret and retired duties thereof, where some other interest than the observation of men must be an incitement ? Yea, may you not observe, there are such who do seriously own the practice of these duties, when the view of those about them might be a greater let and ground of fear, than any persuading motive? And, whilst you challenge the light pro- fession of many within the church, do but also ask your conscience, if there be not such, whose way you must justify, even over the belly of your hatred and prejudice against them, that it hath a convinc- ing savour of humility ? Yea, their growth under the ground, and being serious and real in what they profess, may be clearly discerned from a naked and empty show.
7. Can these intend, by such a testimony, to de- ceive others, who have oft been in so great fear and dis- quiet, that they be not themselves deceived ? Ob, how convincing may this be to the world, to consider what perplexing queries and doubts Christians have sometimes about their own inward case; yea, after such sharp wrestlings, a most sweet calm and compo- sure of spirit may be discerned. It is strange, this puts not atheists to a more serious inquiry, what such changes can mean, which will make men differ so far from themselves, whilst no outward cause can be dis- cerned. It is true, some matters lie much under ground ; the heart knows its own bitterness, and a
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stranger doth not intermeddle with its joy ; yea, the deepest plunge and exercise may make little noise without. Yet this is sure, there is so much under these vicissitudes that is obvious even to the view of on-lookers, as may leave some conviction their enjoy- ments must be true and real, when the want thereof 13 so sensibly felt. And the world is not so stupidly inadvertent, not to observe this, if they did not shut their eyes for fear of such a discovery.
8. Should not their testimony be very convincing, whose complaints and challenges you may find more at home upon themselves, than against others ; who are oft bemoaning over these evils which the eyes of man could not reach % May not the world see, how some are pressed with anguish of soul, to the wasting of their body, when no cause from without is known, and are otherwise rational and most composed ? Yea, may it not sometimes be discerned, there is more smothered within, which gets no vent, than ap- pears without ? — for grief in earnest wants not some peculiar marks by which it may be witnessed to others. I think this should put the world to such a reflection. There must be some grief and joy, and a cause for it, which goes above the world or the things thereof.
9. This is their testimony, whose confidence and composure of spirit in the greatest exigencies, may witness to others that persuasion they have of the truth within their souls. You see also at what labour and work those are in the duties of religion; yea, when they are most serious, how native and uncon- strained their motions are. Oh, doth not this shew, that the grace of God and a new nature is another thing than words ; and that they must surely find sa-
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tisfaction in those duties which make it to them a spe- cial delight and pleasure, that you would reckon an intolerable and sore toil 1
10. Do you not see how those agree every where and at every time anent this testimony, that the Scripture is verified by experience ; and the breath- ings and influences of God on the soul tryst them in the way of duty according to the promise, even whilst they most remarkably differ amongst themselves in their natural temper and disposition ? And is it not known, whatever particular and lesser difference, through the prevalence of corruption, are too frequent amongst these, yet no challenge, no reflection on the truth in reality of godliness in itself will be found, when their challenges are most bitter one upon ano- ther 1 I must further attest your conscience, whilst you have heard the sad regret of dying Christians anent the interest of their soul, and short-coming in the study of godliness ; have not these complaints been still to commend religion, and the excellency thereof and reflect only upon themselves ; but none ever was heard to have such a complaint, that they did cheat the world in that matter, by obtruding upon them a falsehood %
11. May you not see this testimony which Chris- tians give to the way of godliness, that it is from those who act deliberately in that great interest, and have a rational account to give of the grounds on which they walk % And do you not find that they are men as well as Christians ; that none are more friends to reason and the right exercise thereof, than such who are most serious in the study of religion ? It is sure, could the world have their sight, and with
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Moses, such a look of an invisible God, it would be easy for them to be of their judgment also.
12. That you are so ready to challenge the Chris- tian's testimony, may you not find the true cause within yourself; not from your judgment, but a rooted prejudice and enmity at the way of the Lord, whereof you can give no reason 1 Yea, have you not oft reproached Christians at a distance, whom upon a more near particular acquaintance, you have from some irresistible conviction left upon you, been forced to justify ? For godliness hath this singular advan- tage, to silence all its adversaries, that none will challenge or reproach the same, but these who never knew it : and, should such a witness be admitted \ Oh, strange ! with what liberty men can deride this, who yet dare not go and be alone to have some se- rious thoughts about it.
13. I know you will not deny there is such a thing as hypocrisy, and a false show of godliness ; yet, sure you have no ground of challenge, or to question the truth and power of this, which is so convincingly wit- nessed to, even by hypocrisy ? For there should be no use for such a cover, no cause for that imposture, if there were not also a truth and reality therein. You cannot conceive a counterfeit, but as it stands related to that which is true. If there were not such a thing as serious godliness, the world could never have known how to personate it : could there be a lie, if there were not a truth ? You see also, that it is the most serious discerning Christians such usually do fear, and have an awful regard of ; for which there were no ground, if they were not conscious of the truth of that in others, whereof they only study the
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appearance. Yea, here I must also appeal the world, and ordinary on-lookers, if there be not, even to them, some discernible difference betwixt the power of re- ligion, and an empty show, (though this make greater noise) ; betwixt those who are serious and tender in following the Lord, and others who glory hi appear- ance, but not in heart : for the one, by a convincing manifestation of the truth, does commend itself to men's conscience; hath a living air and breath, which, by no art or cunning, can be drawn to the life, no more than an exquisite painter, with the choicest colours, in drawing a man upon a board, can there- with draw the vital acts of breathing and moving.
14. May you not see holiness must be some excel- lent thing, which hath such credit even with its real adversaries, and the worst of men, to make them grasp at the appearance and shadow of that which others know, they hate the power and practice thereof \ And here I would ask the world, is it not to the Scripture and truth thereof, the experience of the saints bears witness, that they do indeed feel and prove within their soul, what you see written before you in this blessed record 1 But is it not also sure, that no- thing is more directly cross and opposite to the Scrip- ture, than a false appearance and show of that which is not real ?
15. Can you debate that there are such Christians in the world, yea, many such, whose experience doth witness the truth of religion ; of whom it must be said, (even their enemies being judges) their being serious in that way, and choice thereof, must be for itself, and hath no outward design or interest, to which it can be subservient ; whilst in this they run oft the greatest hazard, and are rendered a prey to
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others ? Oh, must it not be a marvellous thing, which hath that dominion over the souls, to teach men the practice of self-denial ; not only to quit, but a cheer- ful quitting their nearest interest; to smile on the spoilers, or rejoice in their suffering and reproaches ; to forgive wrongs, and take revenge by good-will? This is indeed above nature, and is only peculiar to Christianity, which can also turn poison to an anti- dote and cure, and gain by its greatest losses.
16. You may see what different sizes are amongst the saints, how great a difference also betwixt the experiences of one and another ; some made to witness much bitterness in departing from God, and others that singular advantage in drawing near to him ; yea, how near, sometimes, will great extremes in their con- dition border with other, at a strait to express their joy, who not long before would have thought a vent to their grief a special ease. Oh, must not this be a matter of earnest 1 — and when you see how much these amongst themselves do thus differ, that yet all these differences meet together, and concur in a most clear testimony to the Scripture, and truth of godli- ness : yea, how this wonderful contrivance of the Scripture is suited to answer all this variety of changes in the Christian's case, and passeth none over.
But oh ! what can be said here, where weeping should be more fit than words, to see what contempt the great part of men put on serious religion, which doth truly raise them above the condition of the beasts \ Is not the atheism of the time at that height, that we must say, the assault of the adversary is not so much at one single truth, as at the root and being of all religion ? And truly, we may fear some sharp and extraordinary cure, to recover this generation of
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a disease, that would seem in an ordinary way incur- able. I shall but further offer these few queries, and plead so far with the adversaries, that they would, ere they pass them, have but some serious thoughts thereon.
1. If there be a God, or a truth in any religion, is it not with this blessed record of the Scripture you must close, as the alone rule thereof ? Yea, if your judgment and conscience be not both extinct, must you not consent to the law and doctrine therein held forth, that it is good, whatever be your aversion therefrom % 2. Is not an immortal soul, and a being for ever such a venture, as is of more value, and should be to you, than the whole world 1 3. Oh, can you be thus undetermined about so great an in- terest ? You seem to be hesitant and unsure if there be another world, a heaven, or a hell ; but oh ! are you sure these are not ; and how then can you be se- cured from such a fear, which of all fears is the greatest % 4. What a horrid and uncomfortable thing is it to be an atheist, which gives men no hope beyond this present life ? Yea, what a world would this be to dwell in, if there were no true godliness in it, since without this, no comfortable human society, no kindly and right subjection to the magistrate can be expected from those, who have no tie from above, and know not what it is to pay homage to a sovereign being. 5. Is not the native tendency of atheism, to all ungodliness in men's practice ; yea, how far doth it debase human nature, and level it even with the beasts ] 6. Whilst you scoff at serious religion, I dare appeal to your- selves, if in your retirements when you have any sober reflections, you are not forced to have other thoughts. And why is it, you so much fear to go alone, and be
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in any measure serious -with your soul 1 Oh, what a desperate security is that !
I shall only add, is it not rare to find a professed atheist at death, when once the approach of another world does awake the sense of a Deity \ But then it is easy to see men, who have sported at godliness in their life, weep over that wretched mirth, when it comes to death, and call for such ministers whom once they hated. And oh ! what a dreadful cure will hell be of atheism, for there they know the truth in earnest, though it be their terror ; it is also sure the devil is no atheist, who believes there is a God and trembles.
I must yet a little further crave liberty, ere I pass this argument, to speak a word, even to these who know, and have experienced the same. Oh, how great should this be in our eyes, and with what asto- nishment may we consider it, which, by so full, so satisfying a demonstration doth witness, not to the eye, or ear, but to the soul, the certainty of divine truth, and the power and reality of godliness 1 Should we not think, if but one in an age, or that every par- ticular Christian, were but once, at some solemn time of his life thus confirmed, that he could say, then did he taste and see the word, and found it surely verified on his soul, as sure as he knoweth that he lives, at what a rate would he value and preserve so singular a seal and confirmation of the truth ; yea, keep up the remembrance of such a special time whilst he lived \ But oh ! must it be said that this grave wit- ness, this clear demonstration of the Scripture, and of the certainty of the words of truth, which we have by experience, doth lose its weight, and the inesti- mable value thereof is less regarded, that it is the
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Christian's daily bread ? Oh, what a reach hath this argument ; what great things are there held forth % I think, a serious look of the same, if it were brought near to us, might put us to question, whether we be- lieve the same or not. Are we in a dream, or awake, and see them with our eyes, which this doth so convin- cingly demonstrate, whilst we can so easily pass them with so little weight thereof on our spirit ? Now, to hold that forth, let us but bring near this argument, and gravely consider the same, with respect to some of these great truths, which, by this unanswerable demonstration of experience, are witnessed ; I must say, such truths, that we may wonder how men can so easily admit their being true, and in so ordinary a way look thereon, without wondering and astonish- ment.
1. Doth not this argument of experience, by a very clear demonstration, witness that great truth of a Godhead, whereon the whole superstructure of truth and godliness doth stand 1 yea, in another manner, does enforce on men the persuasion of this, by a more near and convincing discovery, than the greatest works of God, or these glorious appearances of his power and wisdom in the heavens and earth do ? It is true, these bring him near to our eye and ear ; but, oh, this brings the blessed and invisible God nearer into the heart and soul, that we may both taste and see, that surely ho is, and is that which in the Scrip- ture he is declared to be. It is not the contempla- tion of nature in its highest flight, that can answer such an assault of the devil, which may tryst the most established Christian anent the being of God ; but there is a demonstration within, which goes far- ther than the judgment, and passeth natural under-
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standing, whence -we feel, we taste, we enjoy ; yea, his voice is heard in the soul, which we surely know to be his ; and this is the reach and import of this argument. There is indeed cause to wonder at the atheism of this world, since men can look nowhere, without some witness of a Deity, to stare them in the face ; but, oh ! there is a more refined atheism, that lies in the bosom of a professed assent to divine truth, and is not easily discerned, though not the less dread- ful, that it goes under a cover, not only from the view of others, but even from a man's self. I would here offer some things, which do witness a special advantage the godly man is at thereby, to believe and to be more throughly persuaded of the glorious being of God : 1. That he finds the believing of this is a very great thing, and not so easy to reach as the world supposes, for it is no small matter even to at- tain this. Oh, what ordinary thoughts have many about it, who think it easy to pass an assent to this marvellous truth, because they never considered the greatness thereof ! But it is sure, the more serious and grave a Christian is, it will give him the more work; and we may find, those usually are more plunged and exercised about this than others. 2. It is a great advantage, when this is so far men's serious study, as to be upon an inquiry after a further esta- blishment in so great a truth. Oh, what another sight of the invisible God ! What a satisfying per- suasion of his blessed being might we have, if our souls were indeed herein exercised, and knew but how little we know and have reached in this, that there is a nearer approach to God ; which should shew us, the faith of a Deity is something' beyond these former thoughts we have had thereof. We lose many sin-
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gular confirmations anent this, because we do not in earnest look after them. 3. They are at a special advantage, to whom believing of this truth (oh, blessed truth ! that God is), is their exceeding joy, and amidst their heaviness can say, the thought and meditation of him is sweet ; that when, through a variety of temptations, they are ready to faint, this restoreth their soul, yea, will cause it leap within for joy, and is there enough when other encourage- ments are farthest off, that God lives. Oh, what a thing is it, in such a world, and in some deep per- plexing plunge, to know the Lord is God, whom he hath now for a rock and a shield, and in the close of time, for his exceeding great reward ! Can we have some serious thought of this, and so easily turn our- selves to other things without astonishment 1 Yea, is it not strange, there should be oft so near and im- mediate a bordering betwixt our thoughts of the glo- rious God, and the meanest trifle? 4. It is no small advantage, where men can open the Bible and retire into it, under the sense and impression of a Godhead, and that near correspondence he hath this way with his people, on whose soul these words have awe and authority, " Thus saith the Lord ;" yea, have that repose upon his testimony and promise, which the solid persuasion of his being and faithfulness should cause. 5. They have come a great length here, who, in their ordinary walk, are under some weight and impression of this, that God is near, who knows of their sitting down and rising up, from whose sight they cannot shift one thought ; yea, that on him they have such an absolute dependence, that without him they cannot draw their breath. Oh, where this
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is believed, must it not cause both fear and wonder- ing?
2. Is not this an argument, which by a sure and unanswerable demonstration does witness the truth and reality of grace ; that there is such a thing, and it is no empty sound ; which doth raise man above the natural state of men, as far as reason puts him above the state of the beast % It is truly strange this should be believed ; and yet is it not more marvel- lous in our eyes, how we can be at such rest, whilst one of these two lies under debate ; the reality of grace, or our being really interested therein % Oh, is there not cause of astonishment, that such a product of heaven should be found in the earth, whose de- scent and original is so clearly demonstrated by its breathing upwards after God, its native tendency and motion towards him from whom it came? Surely grace is a great subject to think on ; and that it is not so in our eyes, it must be either that we do not believe it, or do not consider what a change it makes on the soul, which is no transient disposition, but the seed of God that remains. Is not this such a thing as makes spring in the winter, causeth men grow under their greatest weights, that lifts the soul up from the clay, yea, does by bringing it low in its own eyes, raise it nearer God X This makes a man to have another appearance, on which the world is forced to look with some astonishment. One Christian doth admire this in another ; and the more it shews it- self, it causeth a more near approach betwixt their souls. It will cause fear in them who hate it, and hath a power even over its persecutors. Now, it is the truth and reality of this excellent, thing, that this
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argument does witness ; yea, such a witness that can admit no debate, where experience makes it sure. I confess, a serious look and persuasion of this might make the Christian's life a continued wonder, that there is such a thing, which, by a marvellous sur- prisal, did prevent him when he was not aware ; hath entered him into a new world, and translated him from a state of darkness, unto a marvellous light ; causeth the soul to breathe in another air, brings him so near that state of the angels, subdues the will with- out violence, and subjects it with its own consent ; yea, by so strait a tie is linked with an eternal glory in blessedness. Surely, this is one of the most stately pieces of the work of God, that exceeds the whole structure of the universe. Oh, with what astonish- ment should we look on this marvellous thing, if we could consider the whole frame and structure of the grace of God in a Christian, and there make, as it were, a dissection in its several parts and proportions; its decay and languishing, these different changes and sizes, its vigorous actings and abatements thereof; how it breathes, is nourished ; how it is kept green and preserved, by a continued intercourse with the fountain of its being. And lo, whilst we consider this great wonder, both in the whole, and in its parts, we may see, how in these it does most exactly an- swer that model we have thereof in the scripture of God.
3. This is a great argument, and should be so in our eyes, which does not only witness the reality of grace in its acting and exercise, which in this former section is specially pointed at ; but does unanswerably demonstrate a spiritual life and being, which the Christian knows, and is persuaded thereof, as he is sure
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he breathes, and hath a natural life. Oh, what a mar- vellous demonstration is this, wherein sense and feeling do in as certain a way concur, as in any discovery we have by our outward senses, that there is a new life, and another being besides that we have by nature, which answers to a new birth ; yea, another breath- ing and acting that is also suited thereto. But oh ! can it be said, we believe, and know it is assuredly true, who have such common and passing thoughts thereof, and do not consider what it is whereof we are sure % 1. That this is so great a thing, it may indeed cause wonder to think we are men, and that we have a rational being. But oh, a spiritual life is another cause for wondering, which comes not by our birth, hath no natural causes, yet a life that hath its proper operation, and vital acts put forth, as truly as these natural actions of breathing and moving are put forth by a living man. 0 life ! that hath in as sensible a way quickening and refreshing influences, as the earth, or bodies of men, know the influences of the heavens ; which hath a pleasure and delight peculiar to its na- ture ; that hath no affinity with things we enjoy by the senses, but is a pleasure that does far exceed the same. And is this a small matter to be persuaded 1 2. "What a demonstration is it, which doth witness even to our sense and feeling, a power on the soul, by the word, above the most persuasive words of man, and above all moral influences, by which men are not only reached, but transformed into the same image ; whence the Christian knows, and knows assuredly, these great truths, the sealing, witnessing, teaching, comforting of the Spirit, are no matter of words, or some strange devised names, but are undoubted real- ities, acted and verified on the soul. 3. If this demon-
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stration of a spiritual life be sure, have we not thus also an eternal life and being with God, put beyond debate ? For, if we be certain of the one, oh, is not this undeniable, that this noble being of the new crea- ture, this life that is here begun, must have a more full growth, and be at the furthest stature of the man in Christ, when we now see it with our eyes in its in- fancy, and upon a growing advance towards the same ? ■ — -for the one is surely as demonstrative of the other, as a young child, which we see in a growing tendency towards a man, doth shew there is a man in his fur- thest growth. 4. If we assuredly know this spiritual life, must we not also admit the undoubted truth of spiritual beings, and of an invisible world, with which this life hath its correspondence ; yea, thus, as by a stream, be led up to the true fountain, to know an invisible God.
4. How great an argument is this, which gives us such a demonstration that heaven is not altogether deferred until we be there, but that such a thing is sure, as the real presence of the glorious God, and a near familiar approach of him to the soul, which is here as really felt and enjoyed, as we can be sure of anything. Oh, how marvellous should this be to us ! I cannot doubt but the report hereof does sometimes dazzle the world with amazement, and puts the grossest of men to strange thoughts ; but oh ! may not this cause them question its reality, whether those who bear such a witness, do truly feel and enjoy the same, who by their way and appearance, do so little declare any deep impression that this hath on them ? I have sometimes thought strange how men are taken even in a kind of transport, with the discovery of some rare experiment and demonstration in nature, which
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could make the pt >or man cry out, heurekaf* as though therewith he had gained the whole earth ; but, oh, here is another kind of demonstration, of a more tran- scendent value and interest, to know and be sure of this near approach and intercourse betwixt God and the soul; that even with men in the earth he will verily dwell, and have so real a converse. This does indeed rise above Archimedes' reach, and such who ever fol- lowed the search of nature in their most exact and subtile inquiry. Oh, blessed souls who have found it ! for they have found a treasure, the thoughts whereof may make it a new thing every day, and make them consider this with a renewed wondering, to know, there is not only a claim and title to the inheritance above, but that the first fruits and earnest thereof are got here ; — that as surely as there is a real and imme- diate converse betwixt men, they have found such a near immediate fellowship with God, that all the words of the world cannot express ; such a meeting betwixt him and them, where their soul hath been drawn out with desire, where they have found a breaking up of the day with an astonishing brightness, after a most cloudy and dark night. Oh, is not this a great tiling % Have they not cause both for joy and wondering, who have fallen on such an experiment that they can say, and not from report, " I do surely feel, I enjoy ; I am persuaded this is the Lord ;" and thus have come forth from Him with such a change on their soul, and com- posure of mind, that even by-standers might see where they have been. Now, this is the Christian's witness, which all who are serious in the way of the Lord, can in some measure bear, that in a way no
* Ijliave found it out ! — the triumphant exclamation of Archimedes ou solving a very difficult problem.
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less sure and demonstrative than anything here beneath can be known, they have had such a discovery. And now, these strange Scripture truths, the meaning where- of once they could not know, — such as, their soul melting within at the voice of their beloved ; to have his name as ointment poured forth ; and be brought near to see his face with joy, they know well, that they are as truly verified on the heart, as they are written before their eyes in the word. I shall but add, it is a very great thing that those know, who know assuredly the real presence of God here ; for thus they are made sure that he is, as one may know the sun, because of its warming heat, and when they see it with its own light : thus they are confirmed of the truth of the Scripture, whilst they see and feel one of the most marvellous things therein verified.
5. This is an argument that does clearly witness a truth and reality in prayer, which may be called one of the great wonders of religion, that such a way is, wherein there is so near, so immediate an address to the majesty of God in all our concernments. Is not this a very great thing, that poor man now upon the earth, hath such a passage to heaven, and may speak up unto Him who inhabits eternity, the glorious ob- ject of the adoration of angels, without the interven- ing of any creature ; yea, with so sure a warrant may approach the throne of God, and there pour out his soul, and present his requests unto him who lives and sees 1 Oh with what astonishment should we consider this ! Suppose at some solemn times only in our life this might be attained, yea, that it were but in one part of the earth, should we not look on the whole earth besides as accursed, and reckon an abode there, were it a barren desert and wilderness, to be prefer-
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able to all other advantages 1 It may truly be a ques- tion whilst we are most in the practice of this duty, if we believe the truth and reality thereof. Eut it is beyond question what Christians have most sensibly found here, that they can say, if they be sure they have a soul, they have been as sure in this blessed way, they have had their soul restored and returned again, and under some deliquium, that by wrestling, they have at last prevailed ; yea, have got an answer from heaven, as if they had got it by an audible voice. Now is not this a great and marvellous demonstration ?
Eut oh, what common thoughts have we thereof ! And may not these things seem strange, if seriously considered : 1. That we are not more restless to be surely persuaded that this is a truth, when we are so highly concerned therein ; that we may have further confirmations anent this, which we should look on as an inestimable treasure, both for our joy and esta- blishment? 2. It is strange, we can find it so easy a matter to pray, and appear before God, that we are not afraid to be hasty in uttering a matter before him, whilst we consider God is in heaven, and we are but on the earth. It is sure, if we intend the bringing of our soul with us in such a duty, it should be more our study to watch unto prayer throughout our walk. 3. It may seem strange, how easily we can step out from the world, and the noise thereof, in before the Lord, without the least pause, or time intervening, which the impression of so great a business should require ; yea, so immediately in our return again step into the world, as if we had wholly forgot where we have been. 4. How strange is formality in such a business as prayer, which is an address to the living God, one of the most solemn acts of the soul ; yea, we may call it
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the most natural work of a Christian, like the breath- ing of the child after the breasts. Alas ! it is sad, that this seems many times, rather a piece of inven- tion, than a matter of earnest with the Lord ; not so much the breathing of the soul in desire after him, as the expressing what should be our desires. Oh, to what class can such a piece of atheism be reduced, as appears in our nearest reproaches to God % Should we look on prayer as a duty, and not consider it as a singular enjoyment also, without which this earth would have a near appearance of hell, if we could not thus solace the soul in God, and get a vent under its greatest pressures \ Oh, prayer ! — what thoughts should we have of it, if the truth thereof were more believed % I think that man who is sure of the being and faithfulness of God, and of the reality of prayer, needs not to be solicitous with what face the world look on him, when thus his great interest and encourage- ment are secure, and a well is at his hand that can answer all his complaints.
6. Have we not this demonstration also by that ar- gument of experience, how near the blessed majesty of God does in the way of providence approach to his people, and is surely known by a real correspondence he hath with them in this way, in which he does so clearly verify his word, holds forth light and counsel, gives the return of prayer, sometimes with such re- markable circumstances, as cause fear as well as joy, and will force that testimony, "This is verily the Lord." It is true, that in the smallest things He is great, and thus declares himself to be God ; but there is a more solemn and near approach, by some special steps of his providence ; yea, by the rod he doth sometimes speak, as with an audible voice, and with such a con-
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voy of his power opens the ear of men, and seals their instruction, as will force its passage down to the reins, and in the hidden part cause them to understand wis- dom. There is sometimes also so wonderful a tract and series of providences, and these so convincing, that men cannot but see something greater than man therein ; whilst things have been trysted with such a surprisal, in the very opportune time and season, that their mercy, though great in itself, hath not so much taken them up, as the way how it is brought about, and their discovery of the immediate hand of God therein, and the truth of his word and promise.
7. I must further add, oh, is this not a great ar- gument, which persuades the soul of these truths by so sure a way as experience ; that thus we have an inward and sensible demonstration of the things of God, that are as certainly witnessed, as these visible heavens and earth are to our eyes, when they are most fixed thereon % Oh, what is this which the Christian knows, yet knows so little what he hath thereby? This is indeed a sight, which puts the thing seen be- yond question or debate ; for the soul hath its feeling and taste as sure as the body ; and hath a savour and relish of things suitable to its own nature, whereby it can discern a peculiar sweetness and fragrancy, in that which may seem bitter and grievous to the flesh. It is by this sight which experience gives, that the Chris- tian is a witness himself; is therein personally con- cerned ; does see these great things with his own eyes, and not with the eyes of others. The consolations of God which are not small, are no matter of report to him : lie knows how no mercy hath been more sweet and relishing, as that which hath had a bitter cross going before , yea, he never more sensibly found his
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own burden, than lie had found it taken off, the laying on whereof was not so grievous, as that relief and ease have been sweet upon its removal.
Now, to shut up this argument, I shall but add the testimony of two great and eminent witnesses to the truth, who after they had been helped to serve their generation by the will of God, and were dying, had that large account to give from their experience, of the truth and faithfulness of God in his word, and leave such a seal to the same, worthy to be transmit- ted to posterity. The one, is that great servant of Christ, Beza, who in his younger years, after the Lord had touched his heart by the word, was one day in the church of Charenton, trysted with that xci Psalm ; which then was expounded, and with such power was followed, that not only he found it marvellously sweet to him at present, but was then helped to believe, yea, to a great persuasion of the Lord's making out all these promises to him in his persuasion ; which as he after found verified, he did at his death with much comfort witness the same, that as he had been then helped to close with that great truth in the second verse, in taking the Lord for his God, and got a sure claim thereto, yea, that he should be his refuge and fortress, he had found Him that, most remarkably, in the after changes of his life : that He had delivered him from the snares of the fowler, and the noisome pes- tilence ; having been in frequent hazard by the lying in wait of many to ensnare him, and sometimes was in great hazard from the pestilence, in these places where he was called to reside. Yea, amidst the civil wars, which were then so hot in France, he had most convincing deliverances from many imminent hazards, when he was called to be present sometimes with the
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Protestant princes upon the fields, where thousands did fall about him ; and thus, whilst near his death, he found that psalm so observably verified, whereon he was caused to hope, that he went through all these promises ; declaring the comfortable accomplishment thereof, and how he had found the Lord's giving his angels charge over him, had oft answered him when he had called on him ; had been with him in trouble, delivered him ; yea, had satisfied him with a long life. " And now," says he, " I have no more to wait for, but the fulfilling of that last word of the psalm, to shew him his salvation, for which in confidence he longed." This, though not written by those who have given an account of his life in our language, yet I had the same from those most worthy of credit, who not only from some of the greatest French Protestants had it when they were in France, as a known and sure passage, but told me, they read the same there in a printed relation in that language, anent his life and death.
The second testimony I shall here offer, is from a grave and eminent minister of Christ in our own church within these few years, Mr George Gillespie, who near his death did declare to those who were by, what a large proof he had, and assured persuasion of the truth of the Scripture, from experience ; that he knew so well what adventuring on the word was, and what it was to live on divine assistance, and be thus in all his concernments carried through, that he could not desire, were he to live in the world, a more desirable and sa- tisfying life, than that of a continued reliance and de- pending on the Lord. And truly, amongst many notable experiments that man of God had thereof, this was one very convincing, how in a strange land, whither
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he was called on tlie service of the church, and in a grave assembly of many of the greatest divines in that age,* when one day he was surprised with an unex- pected encounter of a learned man, Mr Selden, who came on design with some others of that party upon the Erastian interest, to debate for it, by the strongest arguments which they had then premeditated for its defence ; whilst none appeared in that great assembly to give a return, though there were many singularly learned and able, he did on an immediate reliance on God, adventure, (lest the adversary should take ad- vantage thereat) and give a short account of these ar- guments adduced, -wherein the strength of his discourse did most lie, with so clear and satisfying an answer as astonished all, yea, did silence the adversary with a marvellous conviction. Now this was the more con- vincing, that having a little paper book in his hand, in which, he was before observed to write down some- thing, he was by some after pressed to let them see his notes, supposing the heads of his following dis- course were in it, but found only in some pages, these words several times writ down, " Light, 0 Lord, and assistance !" his soul being then carried upward for the same. Thus did that blessed man give in his witness to the truth when he was dying, from the sure ex- perience he had thereof through his life, and with much assurance of the salvation of God died ; which I must say, is a remark, that in many instances might be ob- vious, how great peace and an abundant entrance, these have found in the close of the day, who have been helped to most faithfalness in the public interests of Christ and his church, and to the most severe ad- * The Assembly of Divines at Westminster.
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herence to their light, anent the duties of the time : which I knew in another worthy minister of Christ, not many years since, who by some of his last words did witness an inexpressible joy he found in this, that the Lord had keeped him in a time of many trials from giving his ark a wrong touch ; which he then declared to the by-standers when he was on the very threshold betwixt this, and another world.
The Second Argument to demonstrate the ac- complishment of the Scripture, is this, That not only Christian experience, but the observation of the church and the people of God, doth in all ages bear witness thereto, how the Lord's way in these providences both of mercy and judgment about the church, amidst the various changes of her condition, yea, in the most strange things which fall out in the world, doth con- vincingly answer the word, and verify the same.
It is indeed undeniable, that the Scripture of God, as it is written to the personal case of his people, and doth in their experience take place, so is there a part of it in a peculiar way directed to the church, the fulfilling whereof in the providences and events of the time, should be the subject of our observation, and would singularly help to confirm our faith of the truth thereof.
For prosecuting this argument, I would touch it a little in these three branches :
1. How these general promises which belong to the church universal, and concern her in all ages, have an accomplishment.
2. How these threatenings also of the word which do not only concern the church, but have a respect
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to her adversaries are certainly fulfilled, and take place in men's observation, who do observe the judg- ments of their time.
3. How the Scripture of God doth clearly shine upon the darkest footsteps of providence, even these which would seem most strange and hard to under- stand, so that it may be demonstrated nothing falleth out in the world, or befalleth the saints, but what is most consonant to the Scripture.
First Branch. — As to the first branch of this argument, I shall but instance five general promises, which we find held forth in the word concerning the church ; and endeavour to shew how very clear and obvious the accomplishment of them is, if men do not willingly shut their own eyes.
The first promise wherein we find the Scripture express, is the preservation of the church, that He will be with her to the end of the world ; and though he make an end of other nations, yet will he not make an utter end of her, but while the ordinances of the sun and the moon last, and as the days of heaven, so shall her days be prolonged ; against her the gates of hell shall not prevail, (Jer. xxx. 11, Matt. xvi. 18.) Now, that God hath truly verified this his promise, and is as good as his word, is a truth though marvel- lous, yet, so very clear and manifest, that I am sure no atheist can deny it, it may be so easily demon- strated.
1. That the church doth continue, and is kept alive to this day, it doth certainly prove the truth of His promise ; for it can be said of her, and none can say it is a lie, she hath outlived all her opposers, the greatest of whom have found their grave in the quarrel, over whose tomb that last confession of a great ad-
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versary, Julian, may be written, " Vicisti tandem Ga- lilcee!"* Hatli not this deadly and irreconcilable seed been perpetuated from fathers to children \ But who hath prospered in that enterprize ? The archers have often shot and wounded her sore ; but her bow doth abide in strength, as at this day this is her motto, " Persecuted, but not forsaken ; cast down, but not discouraged." She who hath brought forth many children, yet ceasetli not to bear : age hath not marred her beauty ; her eyes are not dim, nor her strength failed ; — a sight which may cause us no less stand, and consider this great wonder, than Moses did at that which was but the shadow and emblem thereof, a bush burning but not consumed. For behold a church kept alive, yet still in the flames ; and when to ap- pearance consumed, it doth arise more glorious out of its own ashes. This is indeed the only Phoenix, and we know no other of whom that can be said. Hath she not borne out these universal deluges, which did like an inundation go over her head, of idolatry and Paganism in the first times, and Antichristianism with Arianism in the after ages, yet not swallowed up "? — which may be no less marvellous, than when she was kept above the waters in the ark. And though her enemies have oft sung her funeral song, and rejoiced over the dead bodies of her witnesses, yet, they have risen again ; her dry bones have taken life and come together, and behold she is alive at this day.
2. Not only the church's preservation, but the con- tinued series and succession thereof unto this time, do witness the fulfilling of this promise, that in the darkest times of her condition, she hath not altogether
* " Galilean, thou hast conquered at last !" — this was the dying exclamation of Julian the Apostate, on the field of tattle.
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disappeared, even when she -was so long hid in the wilderness, but still in every age had some witnesses ; and though the church hath oft cried out for the want of children, and been heard weeping, bemoaning herself because they were not, yet we may say, she never wanted an offspring to this day : she did never die without an heir and seed of her own, to raise up her name, even since the covenant was first made with her in Adam's family ; and though particular churches have their set times, which like the sun, have the usual periods, their height and flourishing, and afterwards a gradual decay, making way to the departure of light, — yet, this made never void the promise of God to the church universal, whose lamp was never put out, nay, shall not, while the days of heaven do last.
3. We must also say, that the continuance and preservation of the church is peculiar to her alone, and can be said of no other interest and party beneath the sun ; for it is clear, that there was no kingdom or empire so nrrnly rooted, no society so well governed by laws, backed with power, which hath had the best title and claim, but time at last did prevail over it, and made the same a trophy of her conquest ; yea, the greatest monarchies, and flourishing cities have at last yielded, so as of them it may be said, Nunc seges est ubi Trojafuit, (where Troy was, there is now a corn-field.) But time cannot to this day boast of a triumph over the church of God, though no nation, no family in the earth could ever plead antiquity with her. This is that interest, which hath borne out all these great revolutions that so oft changed the very face of the world, yea, hath outlived so many king- doms and successions thereof.
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4. It dotli convincingly demonstrate the truth of this promise of the church's preservation, that the world, yea, greatest atheists may see, this hath not come to pass at an adventure, nay, not in an ordinary way of providence, but by a divine power most dis- cernible therein, while it is so clear, 1. That no inte- rest or party had ever such adversaries as the church, against whom the powers of the world, and the powers of darkness have always been on foot. 2. That out- ward advantages have usually been on her adver- saries' side, not only the great men of the earth, but these of greatest parts and abilities. 3. That their will was never wanting to their power, and their de- sign no less than to raze her to the foundation. 4. That this enmity hath been rooted and irreconcilable, which time to this day could never take up. 5. That no interest did ever endure such violent assaults, so many batteries ; for it is observable, that most of the wars and commotions of every age, have been some way stated on the church's account, and whatever private quarrels men have had among themselves, yet it hath not hindered the pursuit of their malice against the woman and her seed. 6. That such who have come out of her bowels, even the men of her own house, have oft been her greatest enemies, and lain in wait to take her at an advantage, in the day of her halting. 7. That her real friends have oft fainted in a time of her strait, and stood afar off, yea, almost none of the children which she had brought forth, have been then found to take her by the hand. 8. That the depths of Satan in her enemies, as an angel of light, have sometimes given her a sore assault, so that, if it had been possible, and ordinary means could have reached their end, they should have de-
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ceived tlie very elect. 9. I must add this further witness to the marvellous preservation of the church, which in an ordinary way could not come to pass, that we find no other party was ever brought so low, and near death, to be yet alive. The knife was once at the church's throat in Isaac ; she did seek to adopt a bond-woman's son instead of a lawful heir, when Abraham agreed to Sarah's overture for the out-making of the promise : how near expiring do we find her in Egypt, when a sentence to destroy all her male issue was gone forth 1 Yea, what but a miracle could have preserved her, when she was betwixt Pha- raoh and the Red Sea % How low was the church in the wilderness, and after, in the days of captivity, even broken to pieces, with small appearance of life, when her face was all blurred with weeping, and her enemies made sport over her ruins at the rivers of Babylon, when the children of Edom cried out, " Let us raze her even to the foundation?" Yea, could the church be nearer the grave, than when her bones were scattered at the grave's mouth \ But above all, in that dark night when her Head and Shepherd was smitten, and her hope seemed to be buried in the grave, with a stone put upon it ; when she could get no entertainment among the Jews, was wounded in the house of her friends, and the Gentiles in wrath rose up against her; that for some hundred years the great empire, which had trodden down all the na- tions about, put forth the utmost of power and ma- lice for her undoing, — oh, who could have thought the church should outlive this \ Yea, after all, we find her tossed and hurried by Antichrist into the wilderness, an adversary more cruel than any that
K
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had gone before, where the Dragon watched to get her destroyed ; but how in all these, and through that long dark night, she hath continued, and marvel- lously flourished as the palm-tree, under greatest weights ; so that we cannot but see that, which her enemies being judges, will not deny, that this pro- mise to the church of her preservation is this day fulfilled, yea, that it hath not in an ordinary way been brought about. Surely there is no enchant- ment against Jacob, nor divination against Israel ; all her enemies have been found liars : happy art thou above other people, for the eternal God is thy refuge, and underneath are everlasting arms, else long since she should have been swallowed up. May we not still say with astonishment, Oh, what hath God wrought in her behalf !
The second promise which I shall here instance, is that which God hath made to his church in the word, of her increase and enlargement ; that the earth should be covered with the knowledge of God, as the sea of water, and her seed be as the stars of heaven ; that her bounds should be from the sea, to the utmost rivers ; which was promised to Christ in the behalf of his church, and that she should possess the gates of her enemies, (Psalm lxxxix. 25, ii. 8 ; Isa. xlii. 4, liv. 3).
As this promise is express in the Scripture, we must say it is no less clear and evident in its accom- plishment, that surely the Lord hath kept his word, whereto the event doth most exactly answer ; and though yet it be not to the full made out, I am sure there is so much at this day manifest, considering the former condition of the church, as undeniably
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proveth the fulfilling of the fore-mentioned promise ; which even to the conviction of greatest atheists may- be demonstrated from these grounds :
1. That vast extent which the kingdom of Christ hath had in the world ; for this cannot be denied, that the greatest empire or monarchy could never so far extend its conquest, as the church hath done, since the wall of partition was taken down : short were the limits of the Grecian and Roman empire considered with this, whose bounds have been the ends and uttermost parts of the earth, where neither Greece nor Rome did ever set up their trophies. Hath not the gospel, as the sun, made its circuit from the east to the west 1 — yea, crossed the seas, to the dark northern nations, thus fulfilling its course, in order to its turn again to the place of its first ris- ing, that it may, as we are sure it shall once, visit the Jews again, and the eastern places of the world, that now are buried in a night of darkness, — which I think will be as sure a presage of the break of day, and second coming of the Lord, as the morning star is to the world, of the sun's accomplishing its course, and that it is returning again to the east where it should rise. Hath not the gospel now been through Asia, where it did not tarry for a night ? for many flourishing churches were there, and the going back of the tide from thence, was its flowing to another part of the world ; which is indeed observable of the church, as it is of the sea, that what it hath lost in one part, it hath gained in another part. Did the vast distance of Africa, its great barren deserts, or scorching heat, hinder the gospel's making a visit thither, so as it was once a fertile soil, and brought forth many famous lights 1 Yea, something yet doth,
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both there, and in the east parts of the world remain, to shew the gospel was truly in these places. And hath Europe, though last, been least on this account ? Yea, what do the late discoveries of unknown parts of the earth mean, but to make way for a more full performance of this promise, that the gospel might stretch its conquest over the line, which surely was the gold and treasure Christ designed from thence ; that even America might have her day also, and the voice of the turtle be heard in those lands %
2. Not only the large extent of the church as to its bounds doth witness this, but also the great and numerous offspring of sons and daughters, which in these parts where the gospel hath been, were brought forth to Christ ; for we may say, that what John saw in the vision, hath been very manifest to after ages ; an innumerable company of all tongues, nations, and languages, of whom it could be said, " these are born in Zion." Oh, how great a harvest of the nations'is even already gathered \ What a fleece hath every particular church cast 1 What a marvellous increase hath been in some places, after special tides of the gospel 1 May we not say, that truth is now beyond debate, that out of one, and him not only as good as dead, but truly dead, there hath come forth as the sand of the sea, and stars of heaven in number 1 The church hath inherited Joseph's blessing of the womb and the breasts in a fruitful offspring; the dew of Christ's youth hath been as the womb of the morning-. Oh, what a marvellous and goodly company will this once be when gathered together ! Then will the performance of these precious promises be fully mani- fested.
3. This truth may be demonstrated not only from
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the real conquest of the gospel, and these excellent trophies of her victory over many noted enemies, who have after been vessels of honour, but also, from the feigned subjection that so many have been made to render. Is it not strange, what a multitude doth in these times profess the truth, and yet hate it, and were never drawn with the cords of love % how very many have courted the name of a Christian, and wooed the shadow of religion, who never knew the truth thereof? — which certainly is a convincing evi- dence of the gospel's conquest, that so many knees should bow to the name of Jesus, whose hearts were never bowed, or really subdued to him.
4. It is an unanswerable proof of this truth, that we see the church's increase and enlargement have come to pass most punctually after that manner, yea, with all the circumstances, as was foretold and pro- mised ; that the event doth in every thing answer the word. For, 1. It is there held out, that from a day of small things which men would be ready to despise, it should grow up as a tender plant, and spread forth its branches over the nations ; that the children of the desolate should be more than of the married wife, and the glory of the second temple exceed that of the first. And, oh, hath it not accordingly come to pass 1 2. This great increase and enlargement of the church, was to fall out in the days of the New Testament ; when Christ should be lifted up, that then he should draw all men after him ; for these pro- mises we have thereof in the Old Testament, do clearly point at the times of the Gospel : and doth not the event here accordingly answer % 3. The Scripture holdeth out, that the falling away of the Jews, should be the riches of the Gentiles, and that their rejection should
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make way for the fulfilling of this promise, even the in-gathering of the nations ; and do not men see the event, with this very circumstanced 4. We find the isles and utmost parts of the earth are given to Christ for his inheritance, and foretold as a special part of the church's increase; and do we not clearly see, there is no place of the world where Christ's kingdom is more visible, where more children have been begot to him by the gospel, we may say, than in these north- ren places, even in these isles of Britain and Ireland, which are almost the uttermost parts of the earth, there being but little from that airt, and nearer the pole which is inhabited ; yea, we may judge, hath been that Thule whereof the ancients did so much speak % 5. Was it not also foretold, that the church should possess the gates of her enemies; at whose great increase the world should wonder, the princes thereof see and be troubled, while God is known in her palaces for a refuge X And doth not the event witness this, that over all the counsels and essays, which the world hath had to hinder the church's growth, her rising hath always been upon the ruins of her greatest enemies ; yea, those who have been a terror in the land of the living did oft fall, and break themselves in that attempt ? Can men deny the marvellous progress of the Church, how from a small beginning, she at last possessed the gates of both the east and western empire, her old enemies ; and do we not this day see her conquest advancing on the ruins of Antichrist, her last and greatest adversary ?
5. As the fulfilling of this promise anent the church's increase is undeniable, since men cannot contradict their sense therein, we must also say, this is a thing great and marvellous, which no less than
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some divine and extraordinary power could bring about, if we consider these things : 1. That quick dis- patch which the church's growth, under the days of the New Testament, hath made. Oh, might not the Pagan world wonder, how in the space of two or three hundred years, it was almost become wholly Christian \ Oh strange ! a Dioclesian and Maximus so grievously persecuting and trampling on the very name of Christianity, and yet near that same age, this great Roman empire and emperor submitting to the gospel, which was fulfilled hi the days of Con- stantine. 2. How astonishing was it for the church's rise and increase, to be brought about upon the ruin and downfall of the idols of the nations, who had their temples, and were worshipped as God : that the world should be made to renounce its Bible, and that religion which for so many ages was deeply rooted by tradition from their fathers ; these altars which were had in such reverence demolished, and their temples made a ruinous heap, yea, the very name of their gods should be thus obliterated. Was not this indeed very wonderful 1 But Dagon hath no strength to stand before the ark of the God of Israel. 3. That it should be thus advanced by such a mean, as the preaching of the word ; even of that which to the Jews was a stumbling block, and to the Greeks fool- ishness. How this voice should put to perpetual silence these oracles, that for so many ages had given a response to the world, might be indeed astonishing ; yea, that the church's increase should thus be brought about at no less rate, than the overturning of greatest kingdoms ; the conversion of so many nations, should tame and civilise the most savage and barbarous; cause the lion to lie down with the lamb, and even
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make so great and universal a change in the face of the universe. 4. Doth it not speak forth some divine power, the carrying on of the church's growth and increase, not only over the violence of men, but over all these dreadful errors and inventions, these thick mists, which both in former and late times, have as- cended out of the pit, to choke her, that we may say, the church hath not only been helped to tread upon the lion and dragon, but on the adder and cockatrice also, and doth carry the trophies of her conquest over all these at this day ? 5. I would add, is it not marvellous, how the church's increase hath been ad- vanced in a way most contrair to all the rules of or- dinary policy, by which states and empires have risen; not by dissimulation, but greatest plainness, and free dealing, for Christ and his ministers did never flatter the world to embrace the truth ; not by open violence, but a more excellent spirit and power, before which men could not stand ; where foolishness was made to confound and outwit human wisdom, and weakness to overcome strength, that we may say, Oh, how little of man, and much of God was to be seen therein ?
The third promise which the Lord hath given to his church in the word, is the giving of the Spirit, and pouring out of the same, which is there expressly held forth, and promised (Zech. xii. 10; John xiv. 17; Isa. lix. 21), and doth concern all times of the church, though in a more full measure to be let out in the days of the gospel.
It is true, the Christians' inward experience can best witness this, for these have an argument from within ; they know, and they are sure they have re- ceived the Spirit by the word, whereby they under- stand those things which are spiritually discerned.
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But tliat which is here intended, is to shew, that the Spirit is truly let forth to the church, according to the promise ; that it doth accompany the truth and doctrine of Christ, and purity of the ordinances, as a thing, which from clear undeniable evidences may be demonstrated to the conviction of the greatest atheist : for I must think, even by-standers, such who never knew any saving work of the Spirit, but live in these parts where the ordinances are dispensed with purity and power, if they shut not their eyes, may oft clearly see something going forth with the word, that is be- yond words ; a divine spirit and power, which send forth their savour in the daily administration of the gospel, yea, by their effects, and some convincing dis- covery thereof, force this truth in upon men's con- sciences, who are otherwise strangers thereto.
Now, to hold forth the accomplishment of so great a promise, that God is faithful and true therein, I would give in these clear and convincing witnesses of the same :
1. These excellent gifts and endowments given to the church, are they not a visible proof of this truth 1 For it is undeniable, where once the gospel cometh, that instruments are raised with another spirit ; reapers sent forth, while there is a harvest to be gathered, and shaped for their work ; yea, those who were of mean and ordinary parts, when called forth to the service of the church, will have another lustre, that it may be oft seen with astonishment, how far not- only they exceed themselves, but these who were of more eminent natural endowments. I would but seriously ask men, who never laid this truth to heart, Whence is that variety of gifts so suitably dispensed to the various employments, and different
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pieces of service tlie church doth call for % Plow are they thus suited to the several times, yea, to the very genius and temper of such a time 1 Whence is it, that every gift and qualification is so fitted and disposed for its proper use, some most peculiarly shaped out to awake and threaten, — these Boanerges, — while others are set forth with a spirit eminently fitted to comfort; some mighty in persuasion, yet not so fit to expound; others most dexterous to instruct, yet not so powerful to apply; some the gift of tongues, and others the tongue of the learned, to speak a word in season to the weary ? To some the face of a lion is given, when a heroic spirit of courage and resolution is called for; to others the face of a calf, for patient enduring in suffering times. Surely it were a choice meditation, to think, how with as great wonder we may say of this excellent body of the church, as of the natural body of man, How curious ! Yea, marvellously is it framed, where every part doth answer another, and to the use of the whole ; each hath its peculiar excellency ; and something proper to every one's gift may be then seen, as well as in the face of man, by which, in some things they differ from all other.
2. These more eminent extraordinary out-lettings of the Spirit do also witness this truth, which at some special times, when the church's necessity re- quireth, it hath been most discernible, when the Lord sendeth forth his servants about a more than ordi- nary piece of work, either to do or suffer. When He is to plant the church in some place, where the gospel will meet with much opposition, is it not then manifest, how some more than ordinary power, and irresistible efficacy accompany the truth, before which there is no standing ? The disputer is then in his rea-
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Boning confounded by something above reason ; the untoward and rude are forced to stoop before the word, and to confess they have to do with power, and not with words ; yea, those whom the Lord maketh use of, who were feeble and weak as others, in that day are made as a brazen wall, and defenced city.
3. Is it not also undeniable that now, under the New Testament, there are ministers of the Spirit, and not of a dead letter and empty sound % — that with the word, there goeth along a ministration of power and life, whence a majesty and authority at- tending the public ordinances is oft so discernible, that even those who know not what the Spirit is, are made to see something therein, which doth dazzle them with astonishment \ Whence is it, that at some times such a beauty and power shineth forth with ordinances, like a glance of the glory of God, even going before men's eyes, which for the present hath made a wonderful change upon some very gross men, and put them in another temper, yea, forced them with fear to acknowledge, that surely God is near in the assemblies of his people ? And I would ask, whence is it, that the word giveth law to men's con- sciences ; should speak with such an authority, as maketh them all to shiver ; that even the worst of men are sometimes made to stand before the minis- try of the word, like men standing at the bar, upon life and death, before a judge whose authority they durst not decline ?
4. It is very discernible, what a great difference and another appearance there is, both on ministers and Christians at one time, from what they are at another, in the discharge of duty, as if these were not the same persons ; which appeareth not only in
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the enlargement and straitening of tlieir gift, but also in power and life. Is it not seen with, what liberty these do sometimes pray, and are as a ship with a full gale before the wind \ — that it is then easy to preach ; when at other times there is like a shut door, that even on-lookers may perceive a sensible languishing, and them hampered in their very expressions, yea, as men rowing against a contrary wind ; the word want- ing that savour and relish it hath had at other times ; and this, not through a natural indisposition or want of preparation, but that which all who ever served God in the spirit must confess, hath most sensibly trysted them when they have thought themselves at the greatest advantage for going about duty ? Oh, who can deny this evidence of the Spirit ; a thing in all ages so sensibly felt, yea, even obvious to the worst of men ?
5 . It is also clear, that wherever the Lord hath had a church, at some special turns of her condition, there have usually been some more solemn times of the Spirit, and high spring-tides of the gospel. There was indeed a marvellous flowing forth of the Spirit of God after Christ's ascension, which like a mighty current did carry all before it ; at which time more success did follow one sermon, than hath been by the ministry of many others in an age : this made the world wonder, as if some universal enchantment had fallen on men, what that could be, which the more they sought to bear down, the more it increased ; that made the rich choose poverty, and those who dwelt in palaces, take themselves with cheerfulness to the dens and caves of the earth. But besides this, it is very manifest, that in a large measure the Spirit hath been let forth to the church in after ages ; yea, there
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m no particular cliurcli where the light hath shined, but hath had its special times, some solemn day of the pouring out of the Spirit before the sun went down ; which may be observed, either at the first breaking up of the gospel, or at some other remark- able time and change of her condition ; whence a great tack* of souls to Christ hath followed, besides the reaching of the conscience, and stirring the affec- tion of many others under a common work of the Spirit, which usually goeth along with solemn times.
6. The going back of the tide, and visible with- drawing of the Spirit from particular churches, where it hath sometime in a large measure been let forth, is a very convincing witness to the truth of this pro- mise. For it is clearly seen, at what a stand the gospel is in these places where it most eminently shined ; that the land which blossomed, and was like a watered garden, hath been made as the heath in the wilderness ; and then, that the ministers of Christ, whose lot hath fallen in such a time, are put to very sore work ; to work, as it were, with oars, for want of wind ; to cast out the net all night, and catch no- thing. A shut door is upon them in the exercise of their ministry ; duty is made burdensome, because the Lord is against them : there is an evident re- straint upon the word, and its intercourse is more with the ear, than with the consciences of men ; yea, any liberty they find, is to execute a commission of judgment, and to denounce the woe of the gospel. Oh, doth not so manifest withdrawing of the Spirit witness the out-letting thereof, and that it is a cer- tain and real thing %
7. Do not the stirrings and strange convictions,
* Take; capture.
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which even the worst of men have sometimes under the word, witness a divine Spirit and power going along therewith 1 — that which forceth an assent from their conscience to the truth, which otherwise they hate ; yea, maketh them for the time, wonder they should not have been more serious in the ways of God ? Yea, it doth often put a thorn in the bed of their security ; for indeed, the word, and the light thereof, torment those who dwell in the earth. And truly, this is a marvellous thing, which winneth in upon men's secret designs and counsels ; doth reveal to them the most close thoughts of their heart, which they are sure men's eye could not reach ; taketh them down through themselves ; and yet, that the world knoweth not whence it is. Yea, are they not forced to confess, what a great difference they find betwixt the word from the mouth of some who are holy and serious, though held out in greatest simplicity, than from others even of greater gifts, and accompanied with more show of eloquence % — that surely the one hath another sound and relish, and speaketh more feel- ingly home to their hearts, than the most polished discourse of greatest orators ?
8. One witness more I shall here give to the truth of this promise ; even these eminent examples of the grace of God, which in every age have shined in the firmament of the church, some in love and zeal, some in patience and humility, some in the strong acts of faith and self-denial ; which do certainly demonstrate a more excellent spirit than that which is in the world: whence they appear with another lustre in their walk and carriage, and have a sweet and fragrant savour of the Spirit, to the very discerning of by-standers ; which truly sheweth, that His wind doth blow on his
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garden, when the spices send forth so pleasant a scent.
Fourth, We find an express promise in the word, of deliverance to the church, in a low and oppressed condition ; that surely the Lord will plead her cause, will deliver his people, when he seeth their strength is gone, and save them from the hands of their enemies, (Psal. xviii. 47, 48, 50 ; xxii. 4, 5 ; Isa. liv. 17 ; li. 23)
It is true, this promise hath its bounds, limits, and provisions, which should be taken along in the appli- cation thereof : we know the covenant of God with particular churches is conditional only : he promises that he will be with them, while they are with him ; yea, it is oft seen, (and there is no jar here with this promise) that a people professing the gospel, confeder- ate with God, following duty, have even turned their back before the enemy, and in the holy providence of God, have for a time been given up to their fierce rage and violence. But it is also sure, that this promise hath an accomplishment ; and in the day of the church's strait, the Lord hath oft appeared, by a strong out-stretched hand for her help ; his own arm brought salvation to his people, when they sought to him ; for God is known in her palaces for a refuge. Yea, surely the church might oft sing that song on such clear grounds, as though with Israel she had been standing at the Red Sea, " Thy right hand, 0 Lord, is full of power, thy right hand hath dashed in pieces thy enemies :" for what nation or people is like this, to whom he hath shewed such marvellous things ?
Now, to shew forth the faithfulness of God in this promise, I would offer some few things that are a most clear and undeniable witness thereto.
1. There are few ages, but we have some record
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of tlie church's condition, which holds forth such sig- nal convincing providences of God, in behalf of his oppressed church and people, as may be a manifest seal to this truth. It is true, some times have been more remarkable for suffering times of judgment, and of a growing trial, wherein this truth hath not so clearly shined forth ; yea, that long night which the church had under Antichrist, might seem to call it in question. But nevertheless, if men take a serious look of the Lord's way, and series of providence in ages past, comparing one time with another, what the straits, and most extreme case of the church have at last resolved in, they will find cause to cry with asto- nishment, " Great deliverances giveth he to his peo- ple ;" yea, the Lord hath done great things for them. I am sure, were there a full record, with that true account which might be given of these more remark- able deliverances that particular churches have met with, since the first planting of the gospel among them, wherein God's very immediate hand for their help hath been discernible, it should non-plus the world and greatest atheists, anent the real out-making of this promise.
2. The confession even of the church's enemies, hath oft witnessed this truth, that in pursuing their malice to trouble and undo her, they have but undone themselves ; how tormenting disappointments have caused their very flesh to pine away, and the close and issue of their rage forced this conviction from them at last, that the church is a burdensome stone to be lifted up, a party with whom it is full of hazard to meddle. Have not such been made to discern something of a divine hand so clearly against them, blasting their counsels and most promising attempts,
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as if their eyes, with Balaam, had been opened to see the angel in their way ? Yea, in all ages it is known, how the conscience even of the worst, hath oft be- wrayed something of a presaging fear they have had of those whom they pursued with greatest malice, and a dreadful impression they had of a praying people, and their prayers.
3. This truth hath had the clearest witness in times of the church's greatest strait and extremity, when difficulties have appeared insuperable, and an out-gate in an ordinary way of providence most hopeless ; when visible means have been withdrawn, all refuge failed, and none to help ; that in such a day the Lord hath been seen upon the mount, and unexpectedly, by very strange means, brought deliverance to a broken, al- most ruined church, even, as it were, betwixt the bridge and the water. So that he who would have a clear view of the accomplishment of this promise, may but turn back on these more remarkable extreme exigences of the church's condition, and there have it ; how oft a sweet sun-shine hath followed the most dark and cloudy times, a raging storm hath resolved into a refreshing calm ; yea, that with a further growth of the church's trial and doubling of her bur- den, her enlargement and out-gate have broken up ; with these great and obvious remarks therein, that it was a convincing return of prayer and wrestling, with a further addition of some new and singular mercy therewith, yea, some eminent act of judgment upon her adversaries.
4. The greatest advantage and victories which men have got over the churches and people of God, can also bear witness to this, that when the wicked have sprung up like the grass, and the workers of iniquity
L
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geemed to flourish., this very way hath the Lord taken to bring about a more full deliverance. Yea, on the other hand, hath it not been very obvious, how the church's gain hath been brought forth out of greatest loss ; that these wounds which seemed most deadly, by the infinitely wise providence of God, have turned to her most effectual and thorough cure ; and men's unreasonable violence and rage against the church hath oft had an evident tendency to bring about even that whereto it seemed most directly contrary, some further mercy and deliverance, than could have been expected 1 — as the Amorites refusing Israel but pas- sage through their land, did prove the very mean to give them more than they sought, the possession of that land for an inheritance.
5. This witness, the observation of the church in all ages can bear to this promise, that deliverance hath oft sprung up, and been brought to her hand from an airt,* and by such means, as none would have expected ; by such, as none but God could do ; a sud- den report and rumour, (1 Sam. xxiii. 27) ; means that have been not only small and improbable, but that looked directly contrary, as in bringing the church out of Egypt ; yea, sometimes by the wicked being ensnared in the work of their own hands. Is it not obvious, how the Lord hath trysted men's private interests to put them on, for befriending his church ; and hath caused the earth to help the woman, and raised up one oppressor to punish another ; yea, often hath prepared carpenters, whence it was least thought, to cut the horns of those who had scattered his people ?
6. There is this convincing witness to the truth of such a promise ; — that sudden remarkable change,
* Direction.
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which may be oft discerned both on men's inward frame, and the outward face of the church, when a time of mercy and enlargement is come ; instruments raised of the Lord, with a discernible elevation of their spirits to act and do exploits ; the feeble then made strong, and those who sometimes would have fainted at an ordinary piece of service, dare with such a gale of divine assistance run, as it were, through a troop, and overleap a wall. For indeed this may in all ages be obvious, how easy it is to move in the day when the Lord moveth for his people, and strengthened the girdle of their loins ; that it was not their bow or sword which got them the victory, but the very- finger of God ; something above the counsels of men, ordinary means; which hath sometimes been made as clear as the noonday, so that even at some distance, those who are wise to discern the times, did see when there was a breaking-up of a day of a church's hope ; how in a previous motion and stir amongst the dry bones, the Lord, as in the top of the mulberry-trees, hath been then discernible ; and some promising ap- pearance from the present disposition and temper of the godly in that time, (though we must grant, mercy and sovereign grace have oft trysted the church when little of this hath appeared) which, like the breaking up of that cloud in the top of Mount Carmel, to the prophet, though at first but as an hand-breadth, hath shewed that deliverance to the church was not far off. 7. I would add this witness also : these convincing providences, which in all ages have been shewed against the enemies of the church, such as men could not pass without some remark, what an issue these have had, who have sometimes been a sore rod on the people of God, yea, a terror in the land of the living ;
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how they have become a most abject and contemptible party, like bees who have lost their sting. Their countenance hath been changed, and they ceased to be any more a fear, when once their work was done, and the date of their commission for the humbling and trying of the church expired; yea, a judicial stroke from the Lord, hath been often seen upon their very judgment and resolutions, which could not then serve them to trouble and afflict the church, the day being turned, and the time of her deliverance come.
Fifth, There is this promise also, which concerneth the church in general, as well as Christians in their personal case, that " all things work together for the good of those who love God," (Rom. viii. 28), the ac- complishment whereof, as it is written out in provi- dence to the observation of men, I would here touch.
This is indeed a great comprehensive promise, which in the constant course and tenor of providence about the church we may see, it doth take place ; how these turnings and changes of the world, the most strange emergencies of the time, the various motions and interests of men, do co-operate together, and have an undoubted tendency to bring forth the church's good, as though they did intentionally act for the same. There will indeed one day be a more clear and marvellous discovery of this, when the Lord hath perfected his work, and the mystery of God is finished, the church brought safe to the har- bour. Then shall it be fully manifest, to what end all these storms, and cross winds in the counsels and designs of men were ; that these things, which in the time could not be understood, but seemed perplexed and strange, did really work for the church's good ; for then, men will see with their eyes, a full perform-
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ance of the word. Yet we must say, even here, in every age, amidst the various changes of the church's case, this hath a clear out-making, that there is no serious observer of providence, but may bear witness to it:
1. That not only the church's good, but even her greatest good, hath most clearly had its rise, and been brought forth, out of the greatest mischiefs and hurts intended against her ; that if we search the Scripture, and will turn over these after-records of the church's condition, we shall there find the most remarkable attempts and plots, such as Pharaoh's last essay to destroy the Israelites, Hainan's great design to root out the seed of the Jews, that great master-plot Satan once had on foot, to crush the gospel and the Chris- tian church, by crucifying her Head ; yea, in these last times Antichrist's killing the witnesses, have all, as if really intended by the instruments as well as the first mover, brought forth the church's greatest good ; so as the after-mercy and out-gate, hath carried some visible proportion to her trial, and to the greatness of her adversary's design.
2. It may be also clear, if we but trace back these memorable changes which have been up and down the earth, how direct a tendency they have had to this end. Did not the bringing down that great image of the monarchies witness this ? We find Nebuchad- nezzar raised up as a rod to the church, and Cyrus for a deliverer ; we may see the Persian and Grecian monarchies brought down, to make way for the set- ting up of the Messiah's kingdom. Antiochus must stand up a little for a sharp trial, and .his downfall give the church a new breathing, and hold forth to after ages a remarkable monument of the judgment
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of God against his enemies. Peaceable Augustus must tryst with his time, in whose days shall be abundance of peace ; we find a Titus set up to exe- cute the judgment of God on the Jews, to make way for a further enlargement to the Gentile church ; a Nero and Domitian to help forward the church's suf- fering, and a Constantine to give her some rest, after so long and sore an assault ; and at last, the Roman empire mouldered down for Antichrist's upsetting, to accomplish what did remain of the sufferings of Christ in his church by that adversary.
3. We may oft see a very strange tryst and con- currence of things, how instruments act to bring about the Lord's end, and advance his church's interest, even while each one doth most vigorously drive its own proper end and design ; which sheweth, there is surely a living spirit in the wheels, that ordereth these mo- tions ; a supreme and first mover that can thus deter- mine them, whether they will or not, to serve his end and the church's good, when they most directly in- tend the contrary.
4. We have seen how in men's plotting the ruin of the church, there is oft an unseen hand determining their judgment and inclination to fall upon that very way, than which, we would think nothing could have been more direct for her good, and their own ruin ; how an Hushai hath been set in, or some have been stirred up amongst themselves (upon their own in- terest) to break the pernicious counsels and designs of others.
5. We have also seen the personal quarrels of the church's enemies among themselves brought to such an height, and to tryst so seasonably, that on-lookers might clearly perceive that it hath been from the
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Lord, a judgment for their rage and violence against his poor oppressed people.
6. We have seen the church's enemies raised to a strange height, all advantages favouring them, until their plot and mine have been ripe for springing ; and lo, at that very choke, something unexpected hath fallen out, which did turn their former success to their further ruin, yea, disappoint all. This, the world is ready to call some fatal and malevolent con- junction which cannot be resisted ; — and what is this in effect, but the witness of men's conscience to a di- vine hand %
7. Have we not seen some sore dash and over- throw of the church bring forth her good, and a more full victory 1 how visible help and means have been taken out of the way, that something above means might be seen in her condition, even in that day, when all hath been given over for lost 1 — yea, truths losing the day upon the field, bring forth her triumph on the scaffold, and at the stake ?
8. We have seen most despicable and ordinary things, made subservient for some great piece of the Lord's work ; a very small thing, made the first rise of strange revolutions ; that remarkable changes have been oft lying in the bosom of a common providence. Yea, truly, we find both Scripture and the observa- tion of after ages witness, that the church's deliver- ance and out-gate did almost never come that way, by such a method and means as she had most ex- pected the same ; and that God's time of working may be oft very contrary to our time of expecting.
I shall only add, Is it not oft seen (which I am sure all ages can witness) how men's endeavours to darken the truth by error, have been an effectual
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means for its further clearing 1 — that the growing of a trial, a violent and sore exacting upon the church, hath kindly wrought towards her out-gate and en- largement ? Her meat hath been oft brought even out of the eater, by means most destructive thereto, and a sword must pierce the church's heart, thai thoughts of many may be discovered ; a time of per- secution must help to cure the divisions amongst the godly, and bring them together in the furnace, which prosperity could not do : yea, it is oft seen, which former ages can also witness, that the very undoing of the church, hath been God's blest way to keep her from being undone.
The Second Branch doth concern these Scrip- ture-threatenings which are held forth in the word, with a respect to the visible church, and against a people professing the gospel, that no privileges they have above others shall exempt them from judgment, yea, and from very sad strokes. He hath known them above the rest of the world ; he will contend with them most severely because of sin, and such particular evils as we find the word threateneth.
I touched a little some Scripture threatenings in the preceding argument, as concerned Christians in their private experience : what I here intend is, to point at this truth, as it is written in the providences and judgments of every time to men's observation ; how judgments from the Lord, which point, as with the finger, at the abounding sins of that time, do reach a land, and particular churches, according to the threatenings of the word. This is indeed mani- fest, that the greatest promises made to a people, we find backed with saddest threatenings ; and accord-
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ingly we find, the greatest monuments of -wrath have usually been set up, where sometimes the largest offers of the gospel were ; yea, that the anger of the Lord may draw so deep against a people professing his name, as to make their land desolate, and the high-ways thereof mourn ; for in this precinct of the church both judgment and mercy most eminently shine forth, and the Lord's way there doth differ from that he hath with any other people.
Now, to clear this grave truth a little, how these threatenings of the word against a nation and people because of sin, are also verified in their judgments, I shall touch a few instances that are most known and obvious, where we may lay the word and observation of the church together, and see how they answer one the other.
1. We find the threatenings of the word do point at the time of a people's judgment, (1 Thess. ii. 16 ; Rev. xiv. 15, 18) ; that when they fill up the measure of their sin, and their cup is full, the Lord will not then defer the execution. Until the cup of the Amo- rites was full, He did let them alone ; and we find answer deferred to the cry of the souls under the altar, for avenging their blood on Antichrist, because that accursed party had yet more to do against the church, and the saints more to suffer under their hand.
Now, to witness the accomplishment of this, let us but consider what in all times may be observed, 1. That there is an ordinary growth, and height of sin, which a land cometh to before destruction ; some national and universal spreading thereof, prodigious out-breakings, the utter rejecting of reproof; wnich shew that a people's case must then be on some turn, yea, that strange and unusual sinning, useth to go
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before some strange stroke. 2. Before judgment come, is it not seen how the sin of a people hath become so daring, that it hath had a loud cry 1 Yea, their case hath been such, as did justify the Lord's procedure against them, even in the consciences of all on-lookers, that he did it not without much cause. 3. Is it not easy for such as are wise to know the times, to see night coming on a land, when sin is at some dreadful height, by considering the word, and the Lord's usual way with a people in such a case % Yea, hath there not then been some special forewarnings, a more than ordinary impression of judgment upon the spirits of the godly, the hiding of many of them in the grave, which, as threatening presages, have shewed the near approach of a stroke. 4. There doth not usually want even some Noah or Jonas, the ministers of God sent forth to threaten, who, as watchmen upon the wall, are discerning hazard at a distance ; yea, with an observable pressure then upon their spirit, and a more than ordinary agreement amongst themselves, to cry out and give the people warning, when the time of judgment hath been drawing near.
2. It is clear, there are some special evils and sins of a time, which we find the word most dreadfully doth threaten, yea, in a peculiar way it doth put a mark upon them, that though the Lord should pass by many infirmities in a church and people professing his name ; yet, for such and such sins as we find in Amos i. 2, he will not turn away the punishment thereof ; but hath solemnly declared by his truth and faithfulness, that these shall not pass without some visible mark, even before the world, of his anger. Now, in this the Scripture is clear, and lets us see there are some sins more particularly threatened ;
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some land-destroying sins that have as it were the mark set on them, which do especially provoke the holy indignation and jealousy of God ; such as idol- atry, corrupting the worship of God; perjury and covenant-breaking : " shall they break my covenant, and escape, saith the Lord 1" (Ezek. xvii. 15). Also " departing from God and his way ; for this, the land shall be desolate," as in Jer. ix. 12, 13. Yea, blood- guiltiness, which the earth shall not cover, and for which the sword shall not depart, even from the house and family of David, (2. Sam. xii. 10).
Now, to evidence the accomplishment hereof, I shall point at some things most obvious to the observation of every time, how terribly the Lord useth to plead for such things, and by some exemplary stroke and judg- ment point them out, as we find them particularly set by themselves in the word and threatenings thereof.
1. How in these sins thus marked, men may see how their judgments use not wholly to be deferred to an- other world ; but though much is oft passed here, and laid over to that last and great judgment, yet, upon such sins, the Lord hath put some mark of his dis- pleasure, even in this life. 2. That for these, he useth to contend before the sun, and in the view of men. His judgments are indeed oft secret, and do consume as a moth ; but upon such sins, we may fre- quently see some public visible stroke is made to fol- low, that the world cannot pass without a remark. 3. That the Lord also useth to be a swift witness against such evils ; for as we find that the oppression of the church hath a loud cry, and the blood of the saints a " how long V it is also seen, these forementioned sins do much hasten judgment, so as seldom that generation passeth away without some witness thereto. It is
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rarely found, that some great revolt of a people from God, and breaking covenant with him, lie long over unpunished, nor doth the hoary head of the violent and bloody man go oft to the grave in peace. 4. That these sins use to be followed with some very dreadful and eminent stroke, which has made the land deso- late ; their cities sometimes waste, and a ruinous heap, yea, houses great and fair, to be without inhabitants ; so as men have with astonishment inquired, Why is all this come to pass \ and it was easy to answer, Even for such and such evils hath the Lord done this, according to his word. 5. That a divine hand useth to be most discernible in the punishment of such sins, because of a very clear resemblance betwixt them and the stroke, which hath forced their own conscience, aswell as that of on-lookers, to confess the righteousness of God therein. 6. That the Lord will put some mark of his anger on the choicest of his servants, for any accession to such sins. Those to whom He hath given their soul for a prey, have yet got a sore outward stroke upon such an account, which hath followed them to the grave. For this the sword shall not depart from David's house ; idolatry rent the kingdom from the posterity of Solomon ; Jonas shall not escape for his rebellion ; yea, God was wroth with Moses, and no entreaty shall hinder his dying in the wilderness. I may add, hath not the Lord's controversy on this ground even reached their posterity? — which may shew, that these threatenings are sad earnest, and that such sins are not more particularly pointed at in the word, than they have been in after-ages made exem- plary in judgment.
3. A people's lukewarmness, their slighting of the gospel, and not receiving the love of the truth, we find
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sadly threatened in the word, (Rev. iii. 15, 16 ; 2 Thess. ii. 10, 11) ; and truly, we must say, they have not fallen to the ground in any age without an accomplishment, as frequent observation can witness :
1. How a people's entering upon a religious way; their pursuing a form of reformation, and not thorough for God therein, but on carnal grounds, hath thus put them in a worse condition than before; for truly, men's hypocrisy, in going about a good work, doth threaten more, than the performance thereof doth promise. Jehu got a temporal reward, but his pos- terity must at length reckon for all the blood of Jezreel.
2. That no people use to be further from getting good of the gospel, than such who have been under most clear and greatest convictions, so as it is found, there is oft more access to gain amongst the savages, than those who have sat their day while the tide did flow ; yea, ministers have found most discouragement to la- bour in these parts, where the word hath been long preached with power. 3. It is seen, how light not improved, will turn a people more gross, and is usually followed with some remarkable growth in sin ; that the more the word doth put a restraint on men's cor- ruption, the more it rageth, so as it may be observed, what a very black dye and colour the powerful preach- ing of the gospel hath put upon a people, as a visible mark of judgment on such who profit not thereby. 4. Is it not seen, how men's formality in the matters of God, hath been oft punished even with the taking away of the form1? yea, that seldom error and delusion want a harvest amongst a people, who receive not the truth in love? 5. Hath not slighting of the gospel been at last followed with some visible restraint and inhibition both upon the ordinances and dispensers
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thereof; a judicial withdrawing of the Spirit, as to the work of conversion and conviction, whereby the Lord doth plainly cease to be a reprover to such, yea, even saith, " Bind up the law, and seal the testimony V 4. The word doth also threaten carnal security (a disease whereof the church is oft in great hazard) ; yea, we find it holds forth a certain connection betwixt spiritual judgments upon a people, and some outward strokes to follow thereon : that those who are under that first woe and plague upon their spirits, are then near to some judgment upon their persons, and may expect a sharp wakening ; in hearing they shall not understand, &c. but the close is, until their cities be consumed without inhabitants, and there be an utter desolation. Yea, we find judgment doth begin as a moth, in that 5th chapter of Hosea, but in the 14th verse it doth turn at last to be a lion. We may truly say, the fulfilling of this hath in all ages been obvious, 1. That as the first part of the church's deliverance is usually spiritual, so it is found, that the first step of judgment, and the execution thereof against a people, hath been upon their spirits, that serious discerners of the time might know, that the night was fast coming on, and some sad outward stroke on a land, by the abounding of spiritual judgments. 2. It is clear, that the most dreadful strokes that ever come on a particu- lar church, do usually find it in such a case judicially hardened, and under many warnings plagued with se- curity. Thus did the flood find the old world ; and before that desolating stroke on Jerusalem by the Romans, were not the Jews in such a case ? Salvian can tell how it was with the African churches, before that dreadful inundation of the Goths and Vandals ; yea, the church's records in all ages do witness, that
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before any sad stroke or persecution came upon a people, a deep sleep and lethargy hath been previous thereto : gray hairs might have been seen upon them, and the word doth even shew, that this will be the last disease whereof the church shall be sick, before the great day of the Lord. 3. It is also seen, how spiritual judgments, when they grow upon a people, make great dispatch, and do quickly ripen for some further stroke ; that when men have run down their conscience, and are past reproof of the word, going on from evil to worse, the case cometh then to be clear, and ready for the final discussion of the process. 5. The word doth denounce woe against the trou- blers of the church, and those who are her persecutors ; that the Lord shall recompence tribulation to such, and plead with her oppressors ; the accomplishment whereof hath been truly manifest, yea, to the obser- vation even of the world, (Isa. x. 5 ; 2 Thess. i. 6), 1. That eminent oppressors of the church have seldom gone out of the world, without some remark of di- vine anger upon them. Surely, if there were a record of such instances that in every age have been conspi- cuous, men should be forced to see and say, that the most noted enemies and persecutors of the saints, have been also the most convincing and noted examples of judgment in the time. 2. That the church's suffering useth to go before a day of vengeance on the instru- ments thereof. We find, Jehu got an outward reward for executing the judgment of God en his enemies ; but as for these men who have been the rod of the church, it hath been seen, that they have not long wanted some scourge as sore upon themselves, as they have been to his people, and that at last they have paid dear for their service. 3. We may see how this
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also doth, help to finish the controversy of God with men and their houses, that for this he hath taken many away in the midst of their days, and made them cease to be, who would not cease to trouble the church, while they had a being ; yea, that he had taken them in his own hand whom men could not reach, and made their down-casting in the midst of themselves. 6. Doth not the Scripture threaten carnal confi- dence in a people, the putting of their trust in man, or in any outward instrument, (Jer. xvii. 5, 6, 17) \ — to clear the accomplishment whereof, let us but compare the word and the church's observation to- gether, and we shall find, 1. That outward means have never more miscarried, than when most promising, and when there was greatest expectation from the same ; yea, that very eminent instruments, when much leaned to, have been observably blasted, and made to shrink under such a burden. 2. That those whom the Lord hath made much use of, yea, honoured to be great instruments in the service of the church, have oft had some discernible blot, to reprove men's over- lading of instruments with their esteem : a Tertullian, an Origen in ancient times, yea, even a Luther in these latter ages, must go with some halt to the grave. 3. That many who have been useful in the church for a time, the Lord doth oft lay by, yea, maketh not use of them to the end, but the last may be made first ; and truly, that excess in men's esteem, putting a fur- ther weight on some means than they could bear, hath oft helped to render many useless. 4. Is it not also seen, how one extremity is thus plagued with another % None are more ready to shrink in a day of trouble, than such who, at a distance, seemed most daring ; yea, none more ready to fall into that excess of un-
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dervaluing instruments, than those who have most exceeded upon the other hand.
7. Do we not find the word threaten, and in a spe- cial way point, at corrupt ministers, unfaithful watch- men, who give not warning to the church ; those shepherds that feed themselves, bat not the nock; the leaders of a people that cause them to err, and by their practice to stumble at the law ; (Mai. ii. 3, 9) 1 The accomplishment whereof hath in all ages been very discernible : 1. How such have usually been most noted as the greatest and most violent ene- mies which the church hath at any time had ; yea, that no course hath been so evil and gross, that hath wanted some of these to help it on, whose hatred and persecution of the godly, have been found to exceed the most openly profane and profligate in that time. 2. That as they are particularly threatened above others in the word, so they get also some remarkable cast above others in their judgment, and having once lost their favour, become vile and loathsome, even to the worst of men ; are contemptible in the eyes of such whom they seek in a sinful way to please, yea, have a worse favour, than the profanest wretches, that being verified in them, Corruptio optimi, pes- sima, (The corruption of the best is worst). 3. That those do seldom make a good retreat from an evil way ; so as it is an usual observation, it is rare for churchmen to repent, or a fallen star to shine again. 4. Are not such oft smitten even in their gifts, which we may see wither, and dry up upon them, while not faithfully improved ; yea, to the very conviction of their hearers, to have lost that edge which once they had in their ministry ? 5. I must add another re- mark, (though I desire to deal with fear and much
M
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tenderness, in such an application of the judgment of God) how the Lord doth oft put some note of his wrath on the children and offspring of unfaithful mi- nisters, that it hath been seen none were more wretched and gross. Whereas their evil practice and example have been a special help, so likewise are they thus punished of the Lord, who did not seek to be- get children to him by the word, but through their way did rather cause many to err and fall.
The Third Branch. — Having spoken something how the Scripture, both as to the promises and threat- enings thereof, is evidently fulfilled in the Lord's or- dinary way of procedure with his church, I would a little further follow this argument, how this also hath a manifold accomplishment, even in these most strange and dark passages of providence, whereat men are ready to stumble, and challenge the spotless righteous- ness of God, and his faithfulness therein. But if we lay them to this measure and line of the word, which is stretched over the whole work of providence, we shall see how well these do agree, and answer one to the other ; yea, that all the paths wherein God walk- eth towards his church and people, are surely mercy and truth.
To clear this, I shall point at some footsteps of the providence of God in the world, and about the church, which would seem most dark, yea, a contradiction to his word and promise ; but are plain and manifest, if weighed in the balance of the sanctuary ; where we may have a satisfying look and resolution of these things, which otherwise would be too hard for us to understand ; and may see, how straight these paths are, which we thought crooked ; yea, how easy and
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passable, the greatest depths of providence would be, both as to God's way with his church, and in our own particular case, when once they are set over against the word. I shall touch this a little in these follow- ing instances :
1. It may seem strange how the church's trouble and strait is oft seen to increase, with the first stir- rings of her deliverance ; yea, when some remarkable mercy and out-gate is in the bringing forth, the first step thereof would seem to put her further back, and in a worse condition than before. This is indeed a, piece of the Lord's way with his church, which in many instances may be witnessed. But let us take the word along therewith, and we shall find, 1. How the church is often at the brink of the grave, even when her case is upon a turn ; and how it is congru- ous to His way (whose paths are in the deep waters, who clotheth himself with darkness, that men should not find any thing after him, or lay down absolute conclusions concerning his dealing) that the motions of providence should be oft so perplexed and various. 2. Did not the case of the church in Egypt seem much worse, their burdens doubled upon them, even when their deliverance was breaking up \ 3. Joseph sold as a slave, and in Egypt turned into a dungeon, would seem steps of providence, very unlike the thing which God was driving at thereby, and yet we see how kindly these did work towards the same. 4. The church in Micah iv. 10, when she was even at the door next to a deliverance, her trial was even at the greatest height : " Be in pain, and labour to bring forth, for ye shall go to Babylon, and there be deli- vered.'7 But sorest pangs in the birth do usually pro- mise the best issue. 5. It was the step of the pro-
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vidence of God, which of all seemed most dreadful to the church in Esther, the sealing of the decree, and sending it forth to root out the whole seed of the Jews, while Haman still flourished : but lo, there was the very step, that wrought most thoroughly for her de- liverance ; and is not a wet mourning seed-time a Scripture presage of a good harvest 1
2. The sore interruptions which a people's endea- vours for reformation, and to promote the kingdom of Christ have met with, even when set about with a clear call, yea, solemn and serious engagements to God, would seem strange, and a shaking piece of pro- vidence ; and truly this is oft seen, as an usual at- tendant on reformation, how insuperable-like diffi- culties, and unexpected lets do grow up in the way thereof. Thus, when Luther and other instruments were raised up in Germany, to pursue the church's reformation, what cruel edicts were then set forth to give it a dash ? — division among themselves, the ris- ing up of the Boors and Anabaptists. What a pure and thorough reformation was on foot under Edward the Sixth in England, and what a dreadful storm did quickly break it up, for that time ? And I would add, what the present case of the church in Britain and Ireland may at this day witness, where once the Lord so eminently appeared in a begun reformation, which now is at so great a stand. But let us go in to the Scripture with this, and we shall find, 1. There is a vive portraiture of providence in the affairs of the church, held forth in that vision which Ezekiel had of the wheels at the river Chebar, whose mysterious motions, and turnings so cross one to the other, with- out any discord therein, as to the end to which they were directed, do witness the rational and wise con-
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duct of providence. The Lord's work about his church is a most shadowed and elaborate piece, which men cannot see before their eyes, as they see behind upon a review ; while ordinary causes do oft vary in their operation, yea, go out of the common road ; but Scrip- ture will make this very plain. 2. Were not Nehe- miahj Ezra, and Zerubbabel at their work and duty, and had an express call for building of the temple ; yet, how great and frequent interruptions did they find, sometimes environed with difficulties, " Who art thou, 0 great mountain, before Zerubbabel V (Zech. iv.7) ; yea, they were put to hold the sword and build, to watch and work at once, because of their enemies. 8. What a very sore back-set was the church at, " Revive thy work, 0 Lord, in the midst of the years," (Hab. iii. 2) ; this was both a great and long interruption, yea, do we not find her almost at a non- plus with a query, which no visible appearance could answer, " By whom shall Jacob arise, for he is small?" 4. We find a special reformation set on foot by Heze- kiah, with a solemn covenant by the princes, priests, and body of the people, with a setting up of the pure worship and ordinances of God ; but lo, a sharp storm is soon after, by Sennacherib ; yea, Hezekiah is scarcely in his grave when his son doth bring in corruption and persecution both at once. And when the Chris* tian church in the times of the apostles began to flourish, success following the gospel, did not a sad interruption and scattering follow ? (Acts viii). 5. This is promised, that Zion'swall shall even in trouble- some times be built ; and her being brought to a heap of rubbish, was but making way for a further advance, that in the building of her again the Lord might ap- pear in his glory. And is it not clear, that Christ
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coming in the gospel and power thereof, to purge his church, and carry on a reformation, (Mai. iii. 4), proveth a searching and trying time, which men can- not endure, for the word and clear discovery of sin, and other shaking dispensations, which do usually attend such times, and torment them who dwell on the earth, yea, and put the devil and corruption of men aloft, with all rage to oppose the same %
3. That a sad over-clouding and darkness should come on a land, after most special manifestations of the power and glory of God therein ; and that a time of the gospel, with much light, should be so near a forerunner of wrath and judgment, would seem a strange piece of providence, and cause a serious in- quiry, how such eminent appearances of God for a people, such great confirmations, observable success for a time, with many signal encouragements, should all seem to resolve into a desolating stroke and ruin? This may be instanced in that Protestant war in France, where instruments were remarkably raised, fitted of the Lord for the service of that time, had much of his presence and countenance, yet to resolve thus into a bloody massacre. Likewise, these con- federate German princes, Saxony and the Landgrave of Hesse, men eminent for piety, carried forth with much zeal for God, for defence of the truth, yea, in the beginning of that war having many promising en- couragements, yet, remarkably deserted of the Lord, with very sad-like consequences following the same. Let us consider also the late Bohemian war, stated upon necessary defence of religion and liberty, and at first attended with some smiling providences, should resolve into so great a desolation and ruin. Yea, the church of Ireland, — oh, what a dreadful massacre of
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tlie Protestants there did quickly follow one of the most solemn times of the power of God, and out-pour- ing of the Spirit, that we ever heard of since the days of the apostles !
I confess, this may have a strange aspect, and is a part of the marvellous ways of the Lord : but when we take it into the word, we shall find there is no jar or discord here ; for, 1. It might seem as strange and astonishing, what Baruch got from the Lord, in an- swer to his complaint, that " he would pluck up what he had planted, and cast down that which he had built"' (Jer. xlv.); for a work to be thus thrown down, where the Lord had once so eminently appeared, and given his people many confirmations, might then occa- sion great thoughts of heart. Yet, the unspotted right- eousness of God, and his truth, was apparent therein ; yea, after that discourse, and all those large promises which Christ gave his disciples in that sixteenth chap- ter of John, we find all is shut up with that, " The hour is coming, and now is, that ye shall be scattered." 2. What strange providences did tryst the church in the wilderness, sometimes brought back to the Red Sea, tried with hunger and nakedness, consumed with various strokes and many years wandering, until most of that generation who came out of Egypt, filled their graves in the journey; and yet, this was after most eminent confirmations, and as clear signs of God's presence as ever a people had. 3. We find a public reformation most zealously prosecuted by Josias, which looked like the renewed espousals of that land with God, by a solemn covenant ; yet quickly after, night came on that land, with a long captivity, and Josias did fall by the sword. 4. Was there not a bright sun-blink, and flourishing plantation of the gospel in
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Judea, a little before tlie desolation of that land by the Romans ; yea, we shall find it clear from the word, that times of much light and reformation, do much sooner ripen for a stroke, than any other times. 5. It is very manifest, that particular churches have their day, where the gospel hath its appointed work, and their stroke at last may reach the length of removing the candlestick. I truly think, that sad instance of Bohemia's case may have this observable in it, that it had longer day, and enjoyment of the light, even from the times of John Huss and Jerome of Prague, which was near a hundred years before there was any day-break on other parts ; so that we should consider, if their night did come soon on, that their day was also much longer ; yea, the stroke might tryst with the ebb of the tide, when their harvest was much gathered in, under so long a continuance of the gos- pel; though I dare not think the Lord's work is utterly extinct there, but that Bohemia's dead and withered root hath life yet in it, and shall once again bud forth.
4. Is it not usually seen, when judgment cometh on a land, that the godly get the first stroke ? But let us also consider this in the word, where it is clear, 1. That judgment must begin at the house of God, and the green tree ; and that the church's trouble and persecution is a forerunner of vengeance on her ad- versaries. Do we not find there is a cup of trial, which useth to go before that cup of the judgment of God? And, oh, the last is of a strong composition ; for the wine is red and mixed, and the dreg very thick, which is reserved for the troublers of the church, and for such who are at ease in a day of her grief, and truly they have the advantage that drink first : " Blessed
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are they whom thou chastenest, &e. that they may rest in the day of their adversity, until the pit be digged for the wicked." Yea, (Rev. iii. 10), we find keeping of the word of patience, which doth import suffering to the church, goeth before some more univer- sal stroke, and in that day proveth the safety and pro- tection of the people of God. 2. It is also clear, that men may be raised up of the Lord, and followed with success, when he hath them for a rod to his church ; but that at last, " Ashur the rod of my wrath, will I cast in the fire, saith the Lord. It is truly an evi- dence of great wrath upon a party, to be made the rod, and executioners of judgment upon the people of God; for they shall pay for it, by some sadder stroke than any trouble or suffering whereof they have been in- struments.
5. That prosperity and success should follow some- times the worst of men in an evil course, and cause such a concurrence and series of providence as seem to smile on them, even to the bringing of their sinful devices to pass, while the people of God have been made to fall in a just quarrel before their adversary, would seem an astonishing providence : but let us lay it fore-against the word, and there we shall see, 1. That there is a prosperity which tendeth to destruc- tion, (Prov. i. 32) : the tabernacles of the robbers prosper (Job xii. 6), and they that provoke God are secure, into whose hands he bringeth abundantly; but they do not see that wickedness is its own punish- ment, and how it is a dreadful stroke to thrive in an ill course. "Was not the church shaken with such a providence (Mai. iii. 15), yea, tempted to call the proud happy] But in verse 18, they were taught from further observation, to discern and put a difference
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between the righteous and the wicked. 2. Do we not find, that even the signs and predictions of false pro- phets in favour of a sinful way, may come to pass ? (Deut. xiii. 1, 2), whereof the church is thereof warn- ed, and God's intent in the same cleared, that it is for the trial of his people, whether they will love and fear the Lord, and cleave to his way, when Providence would seem to shine on a crooked path. 3. Did not success for a time attend Absalom? Israel as one man went after him, yea, the friends and councillors of David : a fair wind did also favour Haman, in his essay to ruin the church. Jeremiah is almost shaken with this, " Yea, they have taken root, yea, they grow and bring forth fruit ;" but is not this at last usually found an ominous weathergale before a storm, though the brutish man knoweth not, nor fools lay it to heart, for what the wicked doth oft spring and flourish ? I would add, Israel's falling before Benjamin, it was an astonishing-like providence. And Habakkuk was put to a stand with such a thing, why the Lord looked on, while the wicked devoured the righteous ; yea, Joshua was to cry out in an amazement, " 0 Lord, what shall I say, when Israel turneth their back be- fore their enemies V But we have also the Lord's in- tent therein witnessed by his word, that this is to humble and prove his people, that he may do them good in the latter end. And thus he beateth them off from all carnal grounds of confidence; he woundeth them to a cure, that by bringing them low, he may raise and fit them for a further mercy.
6. What great disappointments the church hath met with, when outward grounds of confidence and or- dinary means have been most promising, as it is a thing most true, so it may seem strange at the first
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look. But let us bring it to the word, and the case will be there answered. "Why should one chase a thousand, but because their rock hath sold them, "(Deut. xxxii), and therefore their strength is gone with the Lord's departing from them ; for when a time of judgment is come, even the mighty then find not their hands, counsel faileth to the ancient, ordinary means bring not forth their wonted effects ; which Solomon sheweth, and after ages have oft seen, "The race is not ever to the swift, nor the battle to the strong." It is also clear from the word, how threat- ening a condition it is, for the people of God to be much carried out after means, or lifted up therewith, (Isa. xxx) ; they will ride on horses, and this shall be their punishment. But on the other hand, the Lord's way, in bringing forth his greatest works, hath not been by might and power, but oft by means most improbable and unexpected.
7. The long continuance of a heavy afflicting rod on the church, without the appearance of an out-gate, or any return to much wrestling and prayer on that account, may seem a strange step in God's way with his people ; but the word will answer us in such a case, where it is clear, 1. That there are no bounds in the Scripture set to the continuance of a trial ; it doth not tell how long a sharp storm may lie on, either as to the church, or any particular Christian ; for it is a piece of the Lord's secret counsel, but not of that which is revealed ; it is enough that we know from it, that men cannot make the church's suffering longer than God's time. 2. It was a long term, that of Israel's trial in Egypt, and after, under the captivity ; three hundred and ninety days must the church lie on her left side. Oh, how many a sad day, and weari-
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some night was there in that word, " Seventy weeks are determined upon thy people, and city Jerusalem.'* 3. Have not the saints, under a long trouble, been almost the length of blasphemy in their complaints ? " My way is hid from the Lord, and my judgment past over from my God," (Isa. xl. 27). Daniel — how pressing with the Lord was He, that " he would hearken, and do, and not defer V and yet, the re- turn cometh not, until the first year of Cyrus. Yea, that cry of the altar, " How long ?" doth it not even get a dilatory answer % For thus the Lord doth oft interpose his long-suffering for some time betwixt his people and avenging of them. 4. It is also clear, that there are many prayers before the throne, the returns whereof are suspended, and an answer to Christians in their particular, until that time when God shall build up Zion ; and then the prayer of the destitute shall be remembered, even as to Christians' private enlarge- ment, when the church shall be raised up. 5. We know the church's enemies must have time to ripen, and it is not a storm of a few days, that will purge away the filth of the daughter of Zion : too soon let- ting out of a sore may cause it undercot, and gather new matter ; and truly, the word can resolve us in this, that one minute sooner than God's time, would not be his people's mercy.
8. It is oft seen, when there is some remarkable work of God on foot in a land, and some great outpouring of the Spirit, how Satan setteth up some usual counter- feit thereof, and bringeth forth something of his work in such a time, with a very strange resemblance of the same. Thus, with the preaching of the freedom of grace, and a clear discovery of that truth, did Liber- tinism under a very specious pretext spring up. Thus
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we find the Anabaptist and Antinomian party set up in Germany, to run down a church-reformation, under the show of a more pure and spiritual way ; and of late, did not Familism in England, under pretext of a more spiritual dispensation, cast off the very letter of the Scripture, turning it oyer into an allegory, and in behalf of the liberty of prophesying, cry down a stand- ing ministry ? But though this may seem strange, yet the Scripture is very clear concerning it : 1. That even Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light, and in no shape proveth more dangerous to the church. 2. That the most dreadful errors, and a false way, will oft come near to the choicest exercises of the saints, and have such a resemblance to the same, that if it were possible, the very elect should be de- ceived. 3. Was there not a Simon Magus, with false miracles, set up over against the apostles \ And when the time of the Messias drew near, did not then a Theudas and Judas of Galilee break forth, to amuse the people % We find also an altar from Damascus set up, beside that which was shewed to Moses, the servant of the Lord, in the mount ; yea, when Moses and Aaron were giving Pharaoh a sign, and did shew forth the marvellous power of God, then did the magicians cast down their rod also, to counterfeit the same, by which the heart of Pharaoh was hardened.
9. The abounding of much error and heresy, now in the time of the gospel, with that swift growth there- of, which is oft seen where the light most clearly shineth, would seem strange, yea, is a thing whereat many are ready to stumble, and thus to challenge the way of God. But is not the Scripture in this clearly verified 1 so that this piece of providence, which is so shaking to many, if we take the word along with
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it, might be a very convincing confirmation to us of the same. For, 1. We find the apostles, yea, Christ himself hath given express warning thereof, that this should be one of the special, and greatest trials of the Christian church, whereof the Old Testament we find doth little mention, that trial not concerning the church then so much, as these after-times under the Messiah's kingdom ; wherein the event may be clearly seen, to answer these predictions which are so frequent thereof in the New Testament. 2. Doth not the event also answer the word, as to that particular way and method how error should be propagated ? — which is there clearly foretold, by subtile undermining, under the pretext of liberty, with plausible insinuations, — ■ so that we must say, not only the matter, but with all these discernible tokens, even upon the manner, the word is made out. 3. Do we not find that this should be a judgment on men who receive not the love of the truth ; and that after flourishing times of the church, when He who rideth on the white horse is gone forth, the black horse, and his rider doth quickly follow 1 And truly, it is seen, that in the time of hottest persecutions, the church hath not been so much troubled with this adversary, as when she did begin to get rest, and most of outward liberty ; nor yet so at the first breaking up of the gospel, as after some of its continuance. 4. Doth not the event like- wise thus answer the word, that in the breaking out of heresy in the church, a spirit of error, the depths and mighty working of Satan, should be seen ? Which I am sure is undeniable, how manifest the interposing of these powers of darkness is therein, if we consider, 1. Its marvellous dispatch and growth, like a plague, and the arrow that flieth by day. 2. With what a
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discernible fury and violence men are thus driven, as with an impetuous current, yea, oft a change on their very natural temper is seen most evidently. 3. These monstrous and horrid things which are oft brought forth, may shew whose hand is in such a birth. 4. That usual tendency that at last error hath to looseness in practice, which as it poisoneth the spring, and corrupteth the leading faculty, the judgment, so we see it moveth towards the vital spirits, and doth influence the conversation ; and the leprosy in the head breaketh forth in blains through the whole body. 5. And do we not see how many gross and profane have been carried with this spate ; how few get leave to"stand, but are still carried from one step to another ? And it is clear, the world did never put out its rage so much against that way, as it hath done against the truth, except when some outward interest maketh it a quarrel.
10. These great shakings and commotions that use to attend the gospel, when it cometh in power to a land, may also seem strange, yea, are ready to make many stumble. But is not the word verified herein % What great stirs and trouble did tryst the church after great light, in pouring out of the Spirit 1 (Joel ii. 29). We may there likewise see, how this giveth the world an alarm, maketh the kings and great men of the earth run together, to hinder the rising of Christ's kingdom ; " Let us break his bonds," (Psal. ii. 3) : for truly, in all ages, Christ's rising in the gospel hath cast a terror to its enemies, that this should be their fall and ruin. When the apostle hath an effectual door opened in his ministry, he hath also much opposition thereto ; but on the other hand, all is still and quiet, while the strong man doth keep the
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house ; yea, it is clear from the word, that where the gospel conieth, there is a red flag hung forth, that if men will not receive the same, and be subject to Him who rideth on the white horse, one shall come after, whose work is to take peace from the earth, to put the world in a flame, and to accomplish the judgment of a despised gospel, who shall divide betwixt the husband and wife, the parents and children, wherein our blest Lord Jesus is express, " I come not to send peace on the earth, but rather a sword," (Matt. x. 34). Which might seem strange from him ; but it is to tell men, if they will not embrace the offer of his peace, they shall not have peace among themselves, for the message of the gospel must either be the best, or the worst sight that ever a land had.
11. This may seem strange, how in all ages, men of greatest parts and learning, are such usual opposers of the truth, yea, how the most sober and calm will even appear violent in their way, the more the gospel is followed with power. But, oh, how well doth this answer the Scripture, " for the wisdom of this world is enmity to God ?" (1 Cor. iii. 19). Not many wise according to the flesh, comparatively with those who hate the truth \ Of all the beasts of the field, was not the serpent Satan's choice \ and if there be an Ahithophel in the time, at him he will have a special pull. To such, the simplicity of the gospel is foolish- ness, whereat they stumble ; to such Christ is a " rock of offence." We find the light doth torment them that dwell in the earth ; will cause them to blaspheme, and discover that which would not appear, whilst they got leave to enjoy their sinful peace without disturbance.
12. These strange judgments, which may sometimes befall the saints in their outward lot, yea, sometimes
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attended with, very astonishing circumstances, would at the first look put men to a stand, and to challenge the holy way of God. But let us weigh it in the balance of the Scripture, and we shall find, 1. That such hath been the saints' complaint, the Lord's wounding them with the wound of a cruel one. What a strange query is that in Lam. ii. 20. " Behold and consider to whom thou hast done this ; shall the women eat the fruit of their own womb ? shall the priest and prophet be slain in the sanctuary of the Lord V Yea, did it not even to Solomon seem strange, " That there are just men, to whom it happeneth according to the work of the wicked ?" (Eccl. viii. 14). 2. It looked like some strange stroke, which forced David to this complaint, " My enemies cast iniquity on me, and say, an evil disease ;" or, as the original readeth it, "a thing of Belial cleaveth to him." "We find Josiah fall by the sword ; Eli with one stroke, hath his sons killed, his daughter-in-law dying, and himself falling from his seat, and breaking his neck ; yea, Aaron hath both his sons killed before his eyes, by an imme- diate stroke from the Lord. 3. The word doth also shew, there is no jar betwixt this, and the tenor of the covenant which God hath made with his people, " to punish their transgression with rods," yea, some- times by a strange rod, while he taketh not his loving- kindness from them. And do we not find, that a purifying trial may tryst the saints, which the world would think a dreadful judgment ; for great sufferings may be ordered of the Lord, to give some great ex- amples thereby % We have heard of the patience of Job, and have seen the end of the Lord.
13. The gross falling of those who have sometimes shined with much lustre in the church, may be asto-
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nishing; but here also we may see the Scripture made out : for it is clear, 1. That few instances of the most eminent of the saints we have on Scripture record, but there is some particular spot and blemish also noted, — a Noah, Lot, Moses, and David ; — yea, under the New Testament, that great apostle, whose denial of his master is set forth, to show how far some may fall, whom grace will again restore and make up. 2. It is there clear, that some of under- standing do fall for a judgment to others, that such who will stumble, whose prejudice at the way of God is their choice, may thus further fall and be broken. 3. The blessed meaning and intent hereof, we may there also read, to alarm men to watchfulness, that such who stand may take heed lest they fall; to warrant also their adventuring on the grace of God, that none should fear to come in after such eminent examples.
14. The contingency of events : that we see many things in such a casual way fall out in the world, as by chance only, without the rational conduct of pro- vidence (which doth infallibly direct things to a certain end,) this might at the first look, put men to a stand ; yea, would seem to give atheists some shadow to say, How doth God see, or doth the God of Jacob regard ? But upon a more serious inquiry, setting the word over against it, oh, what a sweet ex- ercise should it be to consider, 1. That though the providence of God in things here beneath, moveth suitably to the nature of inferior causes, whether ne- cessary, free, or contingent ; not violencing them, or otherwise making use of them, but according to their nature ; so that though the event be necessary and infallible^ with a respect to the first cause, — the de-
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termined counsel of God, — it is nevertheless contin- gent in respect of its nearest cause ; yet, this also on the other hand is clear, how these smallest, and most casual motions do certainly fall under that compre- hensive reach of providence, that even a sparrow falleth not to the ground by guess ; Bebekah cometh not with her pitcher to the well, nor Ruth to glean in Boaz's field at an adventure, but in these the provi- dence of God must reach its end, and cannot miscarry. 2. That those things which to us would seem most casual, we oft see in their tendency and product, have been intended by the Lord, as a special mean for the promoting of his glory, wherein such a wonderful tryst, and uniting of things in themselves most re- mote for that end, may be truly discerned ; that if prejudice do not shut men's eyes, they must confess this can be no blind chance, but some higher counsel and conduct of the same. What would look more contingent, than that Ahasuerus was indisposed to sleep, and could have no rest in the night ; or that a reflection of the sun upon the waters, should make them appear as blood to the children of Moab ! But we see what great things the Lord is thus bringing about. 3. Is it not oft manifest, how not the smallest casualty or circumstance providence doth lose, with- out some improvement thereof? yea, that it guideth the stroke of a man's sword in the battle, and direct- eth the bullet to its appointed mark ; and doth evi- dently check the stars, and control that fatal necessity, which we are ready to fear, may or will follow their aspect ; and doth even determine these which in them- selves are most free and absolute, the heart and will of man. Must not the crowing of the cock, the soldiers dividing Christ's garments, fall out for an accomplish-
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ment of the Scripture % And though it was at a venture that that man drew the bow which sent Ahab to his grave, yet, it was no chance did direct the ar- row between the very joints of his armour. 4. Amidst the various emergencies and hazards of men's lives, may not experience tell, that surely things contin- gent are not abandoned to fortune ; but there is a providence which doth number our hairs, without which they cannot fall to the ground 1 Oh, how asto- nishing may it be to think, how surprising hazards have been often obviated ; by what unexpected means men have been delivered from violent assaults ; how help unlocked for, hath even trysted at a choke and an extremity ; yea, while their foot was slipping, even betwixt their falling and fall, they have been trysted with some remarkable cast of mercy. 5. Is it not easy to discern, how many accidents which seem most casual, yet by no human prudence or industry can be prevented, but are observably brought about, and guided to fulfil the threatenings of the word on un- godly men ? How was Sisera led into the house of Jael, by other places'? How should Haman's suit for Mordecai's death, tryst with that very morning, when the king's thoughts were favourable to him ; for it might seem, had Haman been one day sooner, he would have got his will 1
This is a grave and serious subject, and in such a day should be much studied, when so many are ready to quarrel at the way of the Lord, and out of every thing suck poison ; when prejudices are now so uni- versally abounding against the truth, that we may see what a witness there is, even in the most dark and astonishing steps of providence, to the truth and faithfulness of God ; yea, how great a confirmation
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we may thence have of our faith in such shaking times, whilst we see how these are special grounds against atheism, and a most convincing refutation of the same, which are so much made use of, to strengthen men in that way. I know, the holy sovereignty of God should teach us to adore, and keep silence, when we cannot fathom the depths of providence ; and on this great satisfying truth we should stay, and fix ourselves, when things seem strange to us, " He is the Lord, and with him there is no unrighteousness." It is sure, that the condition of the damned in hell takes not off that obligation to declare his faithfulness, and adore his unspotted justice ; but, oh, then, it would cease to be hell, if such a blessed frame could have a being there. However, it is a necessary and concerning duty, when a matter seems too hard for us to under- stand, to inquire in the sanctuary : there is a war- rantable search after the works of God, that we may know them. Now, besides these instances which have been already mentioned, I would yet further touch some few steps of the providence of God, with a very special respect to this present time, which may seem very strange, and be amazing ; but when brought to that test of divine truth, will be found a most satis- fying confirmation thereof.
I. It may seem strange, to see the church of Christ this day so universally brought low, and in a suffer- ing condition, whilst the whole earth besides is at such rest and quiet, that if we now look any where abroad, affliction and contempt from men is seen in a very great measure, to attend the profession of godli- ness, but more especially the power thereof ; yea, that almost in every place the church would seem to be upon a decay and a declining, rather than in an ad-
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vance. I confess, this raay cause great thoughts of heart, when we consider that inestimable value, that He whose the church is hath put thereon ; what glorious things are spoken of her in the word, espe- cially with a respect to the latter days; and we have judged (I humbly think, with a safe warrant) that this should be a solemn time of fulfilling these promises, which yet points at a more universal raising and enlargement of the church of Christ ; yea, that in so great a measure we. have seen some begun per- formance thereof, and therefore should conclude, the Lord's work herein cannot halt, until it be at the full height, and at the perfect day. " Shall I bring to the birth, and not cause to bring forth, saith the Lord? shall I cause to bring forth, and shut the womb, saith thy God1?" (Isa. lxvi. 9). But let us go into the Scripture, and there inquire concerning this, and we shall find,
1. How the church and the world, in that interest of their joy and grief, as well as other interests, are stated in a most direct opposition : " Verily," saith Christ, " ye shall lament and weep, but the world shall rejoice," (John xvi. 20). It should not be ex- pected that these can be at rest together, since the trouble and suffering of the church, is a part of the world's ease and quiet. What a solemn jubilee does that cause to her adversaries, when they see before them the dead bodies of the witnesses of Christ % (Rev. xi. 10). No sight more rejoicing to such, be- cause these are they who torment them who dwell in the earth. But when once the truth casts off her sackcloth, and the witnesses get upon their feet, oh, what a terror doth this cause ! They are pained, yea, their eyes are ready to consume in their eye-holes
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with bitterness and anguish, that they have been at so sore work, and done so much against the church, and yet cannot undo her.
2. Should this be more strange now, than at that time, when the city of Shushan, and the whole seed of the Jews were in perplexity, whilst the king and Hainan sat down to feast and rejoice oyer such a threatened ruin 1 for this seemed to strike at the root of the church universal. And was not that a broad and dark cloud, when this was written in the Lamen- tation of the church, Zion is a wilderness, and Je- rusalem a desolation ; yea, could find no rest, no com- forter any where, (Lam. i. 16, 17). But if such a providence seem strange, that the church now at this day should be with so violent a spate, and universal a storm run down, when so great things are promised, let us consider His way, who by the greatest down- castings and straits, useth to bring about the most remarkable mercies. And do we not know, the devil appears with greatest wrath, and raiseth the sorest storms, when he knows that his time is short ?
3. If we consult the Scripture, we shall find that the adversaries of the church have an hour, which is their hour, and the power of darkness ; for their sun- shine is indeed a black and dark time. And then is there a strange astonishing concurrence of outward ad- vantages on their side ; for they are thus established for judgment ; and the wind must serve, and the tide make, until that work in their hand be fulfilled. They could never have been such a rod on the church, if they were not appointed of the Lord for the same. Yea, is it not observable, that whilst this their hour continues, there is then a power of darkness ; such a time, when that hath an unusual force, and would
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seem to carry all before it ; liatli then a marvellous quick dispatch in its spreading from one place to an- other, to make a dark night where the gospel some- times hath had a bright day ? But we see, how such a strange darkness hath but its hour, as to the pre- valence thereof, even a set time for the church's trial ; and it is such an eclipse, were it never so universal, that must go over at its appointed period, and give place to light, before which the darkness can no longer stand; and then it shall be said to her, who had almost abandoned herself to sorrow, " Arise and shine, for thy light is come, and the glory of the Lord is risen." 4. Why should we be amazed at this, where we may read so clearly something of the Lord's design, even by so sore and universal a stroke, to appear in his glory (Psal. cii. 16), and thus raise his church with an unspeakable advantage, by such a supposed ruin ? The Scripture is in this very manifest, that when the Lord is about some great building, and hath some excellent piece of work to raise up, a great deal of rubbish and breaking down use to go before. Is it not thus also He makes the suffering graces of his Spirit in his people shine forth, that here the1 faith and patience of the saints may be witnessed ? Yea, should we not know, there is in every age a fill- ing up of the sufferings of Christ in his people, and a testimony thus required to his truth, which the great witness himself did once seal and confirm with his blood; even he who, before Pontius Pilate, gave a good confession ; and through all ages, even to the close of time, there must not want some witnesses to the same ? It is known, how some times of the church are beyond others made remarkable for suf- fering ; but it is no less clear, that in these times also
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the truth hath had the greatest victory ; — and herein is a more special clearing up of some truths which the world hath most studied to darken. Thus, we see some ages of the church may have a larger part of this testimony assigned ; yea, this remark may not only be of some different lot and service assigned to particular ages, but to particular churches also.
5. If we inquire anent this at the Scripture, we shall find also some remarkable proportion that the turning again of the church's captivity hath to her former bondage. Read Isa. xiix. 19, 20, and Iv. 13, Jer. xxxi. 39, and you may see what an ample restora- tion is there, which, as with a measuring line, is made to answer in breadth and length to her former down- casting. We find Zion's rejoicing when her time of refreshment comes from the presence of the Lord, must reach all her mourners, and be as universal as once the cause of lamentation was. (Isa. Ixvi. 10). Is it not such an hour sometimes with the church, that a refreshing report is nowhere to be heard, but the tidings of the next day add more grief to the for- mer day's sorrow ; yet hath not such a time quickly followed, wherein the church might say, " The Lord hath increased her greatness, and comforted her on every side ;" and hath had a spring and reviving up- on the return of the sun, as universal as her decay and withering once was through the dead winter ? (Isa. li. 3). And truly, whilst we consider the time in which we are now fallen, how the church of Christ is every where low, and in a most languishing condi- tion, Antichristianism now upon a formidable growth, as if there were an universal conspiracy to return again to Babylon ; and if we will inquire hereanent at the Scripture, as we see this sad decay, we may
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tlience conclude a certain delivery : yea, that even by a day of vengeance, the Lord can bring about the year of his redeemed. I humbly think, we may with a safe Scripture-warrant judge, that so universal a decay, such a great overspreading of darkness over the Reformed churches through the whole world, may give us ground to believe such a breaking up also of the gospel, and of the knowledge of the Lord, that shall be of as large extent, even to the filling of the earth therewith, as the waters cover the sea. It will not be a particular shower and sunshine of re- freshing influences on some church ; it will not be the reviving of the work of God in these nations, I must think, will answer so broad a cloud, and so uni- versal a devastation and lamentation through the whole churches of Christ. But we may, according to the Scripture, look on this as a part of the last and most remarkable assault that the church universal shall have from Antichrist; before that full stroke on the seat of the Beast ; yea, that this is a very pro- mising forerunner thereof ; for when this party seems now to get up, and begins to move war, we have sure ground to believe his further falling thereby ; and that every new assault which that grand adversary makes upon the church, shall so far put forward her interest, and hasten his own ruin. Blessed are they who are helped in this dark hour to watch, and wait until the vision break up, for it will assuredly speak in the appointed time.
II. These short breathings of the church, now un- der the New Testament, may seem also strange, that we see her sunshine so quickly darkened with clouds, and followed with showers ; that any lucid interval she enjoys, wants not long a new storm. "We see this
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very clear, what hath, been the usual lot of the church uniyersal through all the times of the gospel ; how sore tossed and overclouded, her rest of short con- tinuance. And as to particular churches, is it not a small period of time which useth to be betwixt one assault and another, so that they draw but a little their breath for some new trial \ I confess this would be puzzling, if such a piece of divine providence we should essay to unriddle, without the Scripture ; but we have the word near us, where we may see the fate and condition of the church under the gospel, the most remarkable steps in her way, these sharp assaults and short breathings she was to expect, most clearly foretold and held forth ; yea, by consulting this blessed record, we shall find these : —
1. That a more continued and fixed rest, than that which may be seen hitherto in the church's condition, could not well be reconciled with the Scripture. There was indeed a great breathing, a most remark- able cessation under Constantine's reign, after a storm of some ages' continuance ; but oh, how short ; and it is said, " There was silence in heaven for half an hour," (Eev. viii. 1). I would here offer some re- marks anent the way of the Lord in this. 1. That the cross and much affliction we find have a more pe- culiar respect to the dispensation of the gospel, than the times of the law ; and this is specially suited thereto, to go through many tribulations, which is very consentaneous to a greater manifestation of grace under the New Testament, that greater and more frequent trials for its exercise should also be let forth. 2. We find such sore and usual assaults, are not only suited to the most excellent condition of the church, in regard of spiritual privileges, but often tryst the
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most excellent of the saints ; read Heb. xi. 32. This remark useth not to fail, how every particular church, besides these ordinary changes and tossings in her lot, hath also some more solemn remarkable trials, and some great assault beyond others, and accordingly, hath some more singular breathings and sun-blinks suited thereto. 3. We cannot find any such calm and breathing, which hath not been very short, if we turn back and trace the history of the church in for- mer times ; but the clouds have returned quickly after the rain : yea, we may observe how the most excel- lent princes and magistrates, under whom the church hath had some sweet repose, have been oft in a very short time taken away, and have but lived a few years.
2. If we wonder at such a piece of the Lord's way, why his church is thus tossed, doth not the Scripture shew what need she hath to be emptied from vessel to vessel, a long calm being no less her hazard than a sharp storm ; and more cause oft to watch over her outward rest, than weep over her trouble and tossings. Oh ! how oft hath the church lost more by a few years' peace, than a long continued war ? Yea, the neces- sity of a sharp winter for her recovery hath been so discernible ere it came, that if it were not for the down-bearing of truth, and shaking of the faith of the saints, the continuance thereof might be almost wish- ed as her advantage, let be to be quietly submitted unto.
3. Doth not the Scripture also witness that conti- nued lasting quarrel, which is betwixt the world and the church, and is perpetuated from generation to gene- ration, that time cannot wear out, so that if she had not so great a party for her, and an immediate support
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from heaven, we might find more cause to wonder she yet breathes, than to ask why her breathings are so short, when there is so great a power against her ? Oh ! if the church had not this to answer all the mes- sengers of the nations anent her security, that " the Lord hath founded Zion," surely that long-breathing design for so many ages should at last have taken place, even to the razing of her foundation.
4. It is clear, the most singular fellowship and free access thereinto, with Jesus Christ on the earth, is by the cross, and in that way witnessed, that it must be said, if such afflicting times did not oft return upon his people, there would be a shut door betwixt the church and a large part of the Bible, both as to its meaning, and as to its full breasts of consolation. Are there not most sweet refreshing truths there, with which the godly cannot reach so near, feeling a con- verse within an outward calm, as under some sharpest wrestlings ? Oh ! what an excellent commentary hath a suffering time given upon these, beyond all that ever was written, on such a truth of the Scripture, " Per- secuted, but not forsaken ; cast down, but not destroy- ed; as sorrowful, yet always rejoicing?" And thus, we see how in our stumbling at such a providence, we know not the Scripture and mistake our own mercy.
5. Whilst we see these short intervals which have so usually been under the New Testament, betwixt one trial of the church and another, and the cause thereof so clear from the word, let us also consider what warrant there is yet, to expect before the end, a more solemn and remarkable time of the church's en- largement, that not only shall be very universal in its extent, but a more lasting and continued rest from the violence of the world than hath formerly been : which
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I humbly judge on clear Scripture grounds, we are to believe, upon the coming of that full stroke on Babylon, and these solemn espousals of the Jewish church to Christ, which seem to be the most remarkable period of that time appointed for the church's reign. And though this will not want some sharp trials, and a mixture of outward trouble, yet, we find no ground from the Scripture after the discussing* of Antichrist, and the throwing down of the Turkish empire, for any remarkable interruption and overclouding, or that the church shall have any great assault, until that final gathering of the world and her forces together to the last battle of the Lamb.
III. Is not this a strange remark likewise, which is so usual a complaint through the church, that with a greater increase of light and knowledge, there is seen a visible wearing out of life and power ; and that now, in these more knowing times, there should be so much ground to say, tenderness, and the serious exer- cise of godliness are more worn out, and in a further decay, than in the times of greater ignorance % Let us but look through the reformed churches at this day, and then turn home to ourselves, and we shall find this remark too sadly verified, how after a great increase of knowledge, the truths of God in such a measure being cleared beyond former ages, it may be said, Oh ! whither is the life and power of godliness gone, and that fervour which once so convincingly appeared in following the Lord 1 We know there is a sweet agreement betwixt the Christian's light and life, which have a mutual subserviency to each other ; and yet to see so sad a jar this day, and so little pro- portion the one hath to the other, may put us with * Shaking asunder.
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astonishment to a serious inquiry thereanent. But the Scripture is clear, and makes it plain, if we will consider,
1. That there is a time of a people's espousals to the Lord, and then, the kindness of their youth, and a remarkable time of love is seen (Jer. ii. 2), when their affection will be aloft after him ; yea, such a solemn period of the church's condition may be seen, when it hath not reached that light and knowledge as after. But do we not also find, how rare it is for a people to hold up at that rate and measure in their life and love, which at such times hath appeared, whatever advance there may be as to light % Thence we find the church's holding up with the name and profession of godliness (Bev. iii. 2), when very sore spent in her life ; yea, this decay oft upon such an in- sensible growth, that it will be hard to get such con- vinced thereof, and remember whence they are fallen.
2. If we will ask at the Scripture, it will also shew that judicial tendency, which light not improven hath to a further hardening ; how under the gospel men may be made deaf with hearing. " For judgment am I come into the world," saith Christ (John ix. 39), which hath that effect, " that these who see should be made blind." Light is surely one of the greatest talents of the church, and brings with it either a remarkable gain or loss. Nothing so dreadful as this when it is abused. Oh ! at what a rate doth it run down, and stupify the conscience, that thus men are not only more deadened, but become the more dead and blind, that they were once enlightened.
3. May we not thence know, how this is one of the devil's greatest engines he makes use of to turn men's light against their life and tenderness ; even to incite
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them from that excellent discovery of the grace of God unto wantonness (Jude 4), and thus essay an agreement betwixt light and darkness"? Oh, What a dreadful poison must that be, which can embitter so excellent a stream, and turn so choice and quickening a mean of our spiritual life to be destructive thereto. That we see knowledge, whose true and native tend- ency is to humble and abase, being thus empoisoned, does work the contrary effect, even to swell men, and puff them up ; to oppose these gifts against the church, which are given of the Lord for its edification, and for defence of the gospel. Thus we find it clear, when light hath made a further advance in the church, the devil is there at work to destroy love, by many bitter contentious debates, where the interest may be oft seen more personal, to wit, their repute and credit, than the interest of God and his truth. I am far from any intended reflection on that grave and necessary duty, of appearing in defence of the truth, and men's stating themselves in opposition to those who are its adversaries, a quarrel wherein they should know neither friend nor brother ; for this is to stand in the breach when it is assaulted, to contend for the faith. Oh, blessed contention, where such with that excellent man Melancthon can say, Non qucero gloriam pro- priam, sed veritatem, (I seek not my own glory, but truth).
4. Though this is a very sad and threatening symp- tom, that night is coming on a church where the light shines, but the heat and warming influence thereof is gone, yet here is a riddle we find the Scripture does wonderfully unfold, how the Lord makes things bring forth contrary effects, and cause a remarkable con- sumption, that seems to reach the church in her in-
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ward and vital parts, resolve into an overflowing with righteousness, (Isa. x. 22) ; yea, thus lets us see a people so far spent in life and spirituality, that the things which remain are ready to die, whilst even there the Lord is pursuing their recovery. It is herein He makes his grace marvellous, to tryst his people's raising with so low a step of their condition, and cause his church, when brought to a small rem- nant, take root downward, and bring forth fruit up- ward, (Isa. xxxvii. 31). It would seem a strange connection, but not strange to the grace of God, (Psal. cii.) that the time of his favouring Zion, even that set time, should find her in a heap of stones and rubbish ; yea, that a reviving, and the breaking up of her day beghis there with the weeping of her friends over her ruins. I shall further add, with respect to the present time, we may believe on very sure grounds, that godliness and the power thereof will yet break up in the world, though it were at the lowest ebb, yea, as at its last breathing : that little spunk now under ashes, must assuredly revive and blow up to a flame, yea, send forth its heat to warm the nations. For on solid grounds we may thus reason ; if such a death-like decay had a respect only to some particular church, and if this withering abatement and languish- ing of the exercise of grace were confined but to a corner, it might be a sad presage that their sun, when so far declined and gone down, were near to the set- ting ; but since this seems to be a consumption over the whole earth, a matter of lamentation, and a spreading complaint through the whole reformed church, we may look on it as a very promising ground of confidence and hope of a recovery. For if that be sure, that the church universal cannot die under such
O
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a disease, it is also sure, this sickness is not unto death ; yea, so remarkable an opposition to the power of godliness, as is this day through the world, we may judge a very refreshing presage of some more universal up-breaking of the same, wherein God will be seen by some blessed surprisal in a very immediate way : for there is hope of this tree, which in a special way he had himself planted, that it shall grow though now cut down, by the scent of waters, even by the river the streams whereof make glad the city of God, which can in old age cause her to bring forth fruit. Oh, what life is there in the church of Christ when it seems to be buried ! for she is in the root that can- not dry up, and herein must his promise and his peo- ple's praise meet, that her dry bones shall nourish as a green herb. There can be now no less appearance of this, than at that time when the Lord turned again the captivity of his people, which was so little ex- pected (Psal. cxxvi.), that they knew not whether it was a dream or real. It may indeed be a very hum- bling discovery, that we must say, our ruin is of our- selves ; yet must it not ruin our hope, since in these great things which the Lord hath done for the church, the greatness of his power hath not been more clearly witnessed, than the freedom and sovereignty of his grace, that men may see, this is the Lord's doing, and should be marvellous in their eyes.
IV. May it not seem strange, and be matter of astonishment, that the great men of the earth, and such who sit in the place of judgment, are usually found to be greatest adversaries to the church \ Yea, it is too well known, that magistracy (so excellent an ordinance of God) hath been so far perverted, that even under the Christian magistrate, the church of
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Christ hath suffered more since her first breaking up, than from any other airt. This indeed may seem marvellous. I do not deny there have been great men in the world, who have no less outshined others in fervour and zeal for the truth, than in their place and quality ; but oh ! we may say, an age brings forth few such ; and that which Salvian says of his time, hath been a true remark in most ages of the world, and too frequently seen, that the contempt upon religion by those who were greatest in power, had this effect, Ut mali cogantur esse, ne viles lidbe- antur, (That they are obliged to be wicked, lest they should be reckoned contemptible). I confess, this may cause wonder, if we consider for what end the great Lawgiver hath designed that ordinance, how men should so far counteract his interest, from whom they derive their power, and for being subser- vient thereto have received it. Sure the doctrine of the church of Christ can give no ground of quarrel ; and it is strange that those should expect from others homage and subjection, who turn the seat of judgment to be a grievous yoke, and deny their subjection so avowedly to the great Judge. Oh, how sad is it, that none are oft such a terror to the godly, such a sup- port to evil-doers as magistrates, and that the great men of the world are so usually found to be the greatest examples of wickedness. This should indeed be matter of lamentation ; — yea, that those are oft- times advanced, who have nothing to commend them, but some advance beyond others in a higher measure of impiety.
But we must go to the Scripture, and there inquire, which will shew, 1, That it is not strange, though iniquity have a throne, under whose shadow mischief
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may not only shelter, but come that length, to be framed into a law (Psal. xciv. 20), yea, it must not be strange, that the adversaries of the truth be among the chief of the time ; which complaint we find, (Lam. i. 5). The world is not yet cured of that madness of which the prophet speaks with amazement (Psal. cii.), why the kings and rulers of the earth should attempt a vain thing, to ruin the church, and make His decree void, who by his word created the world. We may see, it is not of late the servants of Christ have been convened before rulers, in defence of the truth, and have suffered by the law, where the crime was, their adherence to the express command of the great Law- giver, (Luke xxi. 12). It is also clear, the kings of the earth, for many ages have, amidst all their pri- vate differences, with one consent agreed to make war with the Lamb, and give their strength for up- holding Antichrist ; yet is this nothing else, but what the Scripture hath foretold, (Rev. xvii.) It was written of an excellent man, in the days of Phocas, that after some humble expostulating with the Lord, why he set up so vile a wretch in the highest place of power, that he had this return, Quia non inveni pejorem, (Because I have not found a worse). Herein is the way of the Lord unspotted, how sad soever it be in itself, that those who should execute judgment for the oppressed, are in his holy displeasure made the executioners of his judgments on men, and shew themselves the greatest oppressors.
2. If this be strange to us, does not the Scripture prevent our stumbling, by a most sweet and choice an- tidote, that when we see the oppression of the poor, and such a wrathful aspect rulers usually have on the church of God, we should not marvel, or be much moved there-
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at ; even when we see those whom death hath plucked away, and with shame rolled in the grave, still return with the same resemblance in their successors, and piety in all ages run down by power ; for it is written, that He who is higher than the highest doth regard the same, (Eccl. v. 8). Oh, how far are they below God, yea, infinitely below him, who are highest among men ! Have not their violence and oppression of the church Him for a witness, whom they must also have for a Judge 1 And the further they seem raised above human reach, they lie more near to some immediate stroke of a divine hand ; that when there is no reprover on earth, none there to give their cruelty against the church a check, He sits in heaven who laughs them to scorn, which they shall find to be sad earnest, when he speaks to them in his wrath, and vexes them in his sore displeasure.
3. Does not the Scripture witness the Lord's blessed design in this, to make his church thrive another way, when she is destitute of the help and countenance of civil authority, and thus lead her unto him who hath the key of David, that opens, and none can shut ; unto him who is a known refuge for the oppressed ? It is here he declares himself to be God, and the greatness of his power, who can keep her alive, and preserve his interest in a destroying flame, and under a cruel oppressing magistrate ; yea, thus cause her flourish in his days, and have peace in his reign, even under the grievous reign of her adversaries. Do we not likewise find (Nehem. ix. 36), the church's distress there, and oppression from her rulers, makes them resolve in a more near tie and conjunction with God, which is seen in the last verse, " and because of this we make a sure covenant 1" Oh, blessed vio-
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lence and oppression that lands here ! where the storm drives to such an anchor, as a further cleaving to the Lord, and surrender of themselves to him.
4. As the Scripture prevents men's stumbling at this ordinary suffering of the church under magistracy, it does also witness the Lord's contending very remarkably against these on such an account, and clearly sheweth, that no human greatness can secure from him who cuts off the spirit of princes, and is terrible to the kings of the earth. Consider Psal. ii. 9. and xciii. 4. It is here we may read the cause of the changes of king- doms and states, that are so frequent in the world : whatever influence personal interest seem to have, there is a holy revenging God, and his arm is made bare therein upon the quarrel of his church, that he may recompense tribulation to those who have troubled her. None need wonder that flourishing states are broken in such a quarrel ; to see the su- preme Head of the church, (that in all things he may have the pre-eminence) wound the head over many countries, and rule the nations with an iron rod; yea, turn great men out of their grandeur and autho- rity, and throw them down : for the cause is ob- vious; they keep no bounds and marches with the kingdom of Jesus Christ, but will be over, and invade his interest, until he who must reign, and have all do- minion and power subjected to him, carry that war back upon themselves, and stand up against such evil neighbours, for his own right ; for which he will strike through kings in the day of his wrath, yea, pursue the race and seed of such oppressors, the father and the children, as a standing quarrel from generation to gene- ration.
5. It is sure, corrupt magistracy is one of the
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great plagues of God on the -world, -wherein his un- spotted righteousness, and the provoking cause from men, may be seen in the Scripture, that when such ■will throw off his yoke, and quarrel with his autho- rity, in subjection to which their liberty lies, they should have one more grievous and insufferable wreathed on them, and be delivered up to the hands of such cruel exactors. I must here say, the Lord does visibly contend by such a stroke, with that ex- cessive flattery and respect the nations give their rulers ; that blind obedience they give, contrary to the express will of the Lawgiver, by a willing follow- ing of the commandment ; and thus writes this sin on their judgment, that the hand of men should be heavy and sore on their own interests, who can so easily comply with their oppression of the church, and invading the interests of God. But here is no intended reflection on that divine ordinance of ma- gistracy, whereon His image is so visibly impressed, though in all ages there hath been sad cause to be- wail the abuse of so great a trust and power, and to see it so destructive to the end for which it is designed. Y. This also seems strange, and is a very shaking thing, to see some of greatest repute and eminency in the church, who have been singularly useful to en- gage others in the way of the Lord, change their principles with the time, and turn at last in opposi- tion thereto ; yea, make it their work to cast down, what once with great zeal they seemed to build. I confess, this may give sad ground of stumbling, and there is nothing that atheism takes more advantage of to question the truth of all religion, if there be any thing further than a human interest in it, when men's light in the matters of God, and the doctrine of mi-
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nisters, are found so cross to themselves with the changes of the time. Blessed are they who are not offended at Christ because of this. But let us con- sult the Scripture, and then, instead of being- shaken or brangled, we shall find this such a special confir- mation of the truth, that if it were not thus, men might rather question the same. For, 1. Such a shaking trial is clearly foretold, from cross tides of doctrine that should be within the church, (Eph. iv. 14) ; yea, a warning given of those who handle the word deceitfully (2 Cor. iv. 2), by accommodating it to their private interest and design, and a corrupt application thereof. For when men do once establish the conclusion before the premises for compliance with a sinful course, they are then at work to wrest the Scripture by misapplying it (2 Pet. iii.), which is indeed to oppose the truth against itself, and suit it to their bias ; that they may salve such a visible op- position betwixt them and themselves in their way and practice ; and thus whatever fair show they make in the flesh, they expose the word, and their parts and abilities in their handling of it to sale. (Oh, an accursed sale and merchandise !) Now, if this seem strange, and be stumbling, that amongst the dispensers of the mysteries of God, and of greatest repute in the church, such should be found, read 2 Cor. ii. 17, and you will there see the cause, why many corrupt the word, because they are not in sin- cerity, and as in the sight of God therein, which is absolutely required to qualify a faithful minister of Christ. Oh, the want of that candour and upright- ness of heart, is a worm which lies hid at the root of all their other parts, and is a dead corrupting fly in so excellent a box of ointment. Thus we may see,
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this is so far from being a cause of stumbling" at the truth, that it does most convincingly fulfil and verify the same.
2. When we have so sad a discovery in the church, have we not this antidote likewise from the Scripture, not to be shaken or moved thereat (Heb. xiii. 9), but that we study to know and be persuaded of the truth, that may quiet and support the soul % Though we should be left alone in following duty, the testimony of God is sure and immovable ; and he is true, though all men should be liars. We must have the persons of none in admiration, which hath so usual a tendency to bribe the judgment and betray the truth; but though an apostle, or an angel from heaven should come to oppose the scripture of God, we ought in so far say, " Let him be accursed !"
3. Here also is the holy counsel and design of the Lord made known, that those who are approven may be made manifest, and such have an opportunity to discover themselves, who turn aside to crooked paths and tread in the dark, to the prejudice of the truth (Psal. cxxv. 5). They may dig very deep, to hide their opposition to God, not only from others, but even from themselves ; but providence herein hath a deeper reach, and ensnares them in the work of their own hands ; yea, doth thus bring forth with the workers of iniquity, and as his greatest adversaries, who wound and betray his interest under that mask and disguise of a friend. This is indeed a preventing mercy to the church, whose hurt and hazard hath been more from these who walk under a cover, than any other party ; and here is the counsel of the Lord shewn, that when a piercing trial comes, which will go through the soul like a sword, the thoughts of
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many hearts may be then discovered. There is a falling in of many with the church under a calm, who must fall off with a storm. It is strange to think how small the first entry of a further declining will be. "When once there is a tendency and bias that way, how hard is it to join in a familiar correspondence with the adversaries of the truth, without joining in some measure with their way ; yea, it is seen these usually are more ensnared, than the adverse party by any such tampering are bettered. It is a sad truth which is said of Ephraim, " strangers devoured his strength, yet he knew it not," (Hos. vii. 9). It is no wonder when men come the length of detaining the truth in unrighteousness, and withstand the giving of a testimony thereto when called, that the next step be some appearance against it.
4. Is it not clear from the Scripture, that the righteous God doth thus rain snares on men 1 Yea, this is one of the woes the world is under because of offences ; for the fall and turning aside of such, is a sad stroke on others, whilst they use not to fall alone. When those become a stumbling-block, whose lips should preserve knowledge, whom the people are to consult concerning the law ; and thus be the greatest cause of offence themselves, whose work is to strengthen and confirm others, oh, what a sore plague is this on a poor church ; when it is low, to break her further, and make her distemper grow ! We may truly say, it is more threatening than sword, famine, or pesti- lence against a nation. It is a strange ground which is given of the departure of these from the faith, who were once in repute of the church ; yea, of the break- ing up of Antichrist in the world (2 Thess. ii. 12), that it was to punish them who believed not the truth,
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and would not embrace the same. Oh, it is a sad and dreadful time to live in, where such offences abound, for it clearly shews a judicially plaguing time upon the church, and some great abuse of the gospel which hath gone before.
VI. When this seems strange to us, should we not learn to adore and justify Him, who thus stains the pride of all flesh, and will silence the confidence or boasting of instruments, that the church may know where her strength lies % This is a remark, though sad, which seldom fails, that the greatest endowments and gifts, where men are swelled and lifted up there- with, have a more easy and native bias against the truth than for it, and threaten the church's hazard more than any advantage the exercise of these gifts can promise ; and the greater repute men walk under, where humility keeps not low, lays them the more near some humbling stroke to bring them low, ere they go off the stage, that no flesh may glory in his presence, (1 Cor. i. 29). We must say, the greatest heroes in the church of Christ, who have shined even to their setting most brightly, have been also the most humble. As it is clear there is no jar betwixt the Scripture and this, but it is so great a confirma- tion thereof, that should further strengthen and esta- blish us in the way of the Lord ; — for the falling off of such from the truth, is a trial most expressly fore- told, and a convincing witness to the truth of the Scripture ; — so this also must be granted, that there are ministers and watchmen in the church of Christ, in all ages, found faithful to their Master's interest, who have been not only helped to confess the truth, and deliver the counsel of God to the world, but to witness their adherence to, and persuasion of it, by
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suffering. Oh, can the world debate this, that such in the worst of times are found, to driye a treaty of reconciliation betwixt Christ and sinners, who are in earnest, and have a weight of that work on them, without respect to outward encouragement 1 Oh, happy servants of so great a master ! who consider that they shine with borrowed light, and derive all from Him, whether as to grace or gifts, that therein they may return to him again, by a faithful improve- ment of their talent ; — who reckon they cannot be low where he is exalted, they cannot lose where the gain is his ; but in this rejoice to see him increase, and his kingdom on an advance, though they decrease, and be darkened with the brightness of his rising.
VII. I know this is an astonishing thing, which many pretend a cause for stumbling, to see how some have walked, and at what a rate, under a profession of godliness, and for so long a time have had the appear- ance of being serious and tender ; yea, have thus per- sonated the walk of a Christian, whom an after-dis- covery hath proved not in some particular only, but in the main interest of religion, to be without reality and truth. This may indeed seem strange, and be cause of wonder, that men having the use of reason, should be at so sore a toil to hold up a form of god- liness, and the external exercise of Christian duties, only for a form, who might with another kind of facility and unspeakable pleasure, have reached both the shadow and the substance, by being serious. And it is sure, if such get not the impression of a Deity razed out of the soul, (which is impossible) there must be some time terror in their approach to God, though not in any secret retirements, (for this should be a piece of their torment, to come so near their
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conscience, and be alone with it, lest it fly in their face) yet with others, when such a witness they have within, that it is their deliberate work to deceive at once the great God, their generation, and their own soul. But oh ! this is not more strange than true ; yea, many such pretenders are, and will be within the pale of the visible church. And is there not a divine hand marvellously oft seen in rending that vail, and bringing these forth to the light, in such a way as may witness this is from the Lord %
jSTow, there is no ground of accusation or reflection here, on His holy and unspotted way, or the reality of godliness, if we will but seriously inquire at the Scrip- ture, where we have this, 1. Expressly foretold, that men should have a form of godliness, and deny the power thereof, (2 Tim. iii. 5) ; profess to know God, being abominable, disobedient, and unto every good work, reprobate, (Tit. i. 16) ; yea, will come in sheep's clothing, yet be ravenous wolves. Have not some of the church's sharpest trials been in such a way ushered in, even under a false show ; and have not the most cruel persecutors entered the stage as friends 1 You know how the Man of Sin did first step in ; was he not thus masked \ And is not the Scripture clear that to seek a church free of such a mixture out of heaven, is to seek that which we will never find \ for it is there only no unclean thing can enter. 2. Does not this blessed record of the Scrip- ture shew, with what singular art and advantage such may act that part, and with Jehu inquire, if the man's heart be right, whilst his own is most false \ What a strange confidence will those have, who glory in ap- pearance, and not in heart % Will they not cry unto God, and make mention of him, but not in truth?
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(Isa. 48). Yea, should we wonder, though such be found, who can mask their private interest with such an appearance, even whilst they seek a rule for their religion out of Machiavel, but not out of the Bible ? 3. If the length that these may come seem strange, will you consult the Scripture, which goes as great a length in its discovery, and you shall know how deeply it works, sometimes not at an ordinary rate ; but they will invite the world to see their zeal for God, who dare not endure the view of their own conscience. Therein you may find an apostle, and one of the twelve, and yet a devil, to witness that this should be no re- flection on the church of Christ, though an eminent minister thereof be found rotten and unsound, who hath made a great show in the flesh. 4. Does the Scrip- ture allow, or flatter any in such a way % You can- not there have one line for its encouragement ; but whilst human laws do not reach this, divine law most severely threatens, (Job viii. 13, &c. ; Matt. vii. 15, &c). And there you may see in its own colour, how horrid a thing it is, which the more near it does ap- proach religion (that is so excellent and lovely in it- self), this false show thereof is the more hateful and loathsome; yea, even those who comply with it in themselves, are made to loathe it in others, which ie in the highest measure a falsehood and lie, because a lying to the God of truth. 5. You cannot challenge the church and followers of Jesus Christ, that by them any such thing is owned or justified ; but it may be seen, what an offence and wound such a discovery will prove to these. It is indeed a cause of grief, but no cause of reflection on the truth of God, for in so far this is verified, " they went out from us, because they were not of us," (1 John ii. 19). 6. Is not that horrid
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and black roll mentioned by the apostle (2 Tim. iii. 5), clasped, as it were, betwixt these two, — " a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof 1" It is not strange, when religion is attended with much power in a place, that hypocrisy is found there also ; but it is clear, what remarkable discoveries have been made thereof, that seldom such who have most industriously studied that accursed art, have gone to the grave un- der this cover, though I deny not but some may. I must further add, that some special incitement and concurrence of the devil, is here oft very manifest, and his power as remarkably put forth, as in any lust of the flesh, to put some forward on such a design ; yea, even may be subservient to them in the exercise of common gifts, that may deceive for the time very discerning Christians. I cannot question the truth of this, having ground to instance such, who have been in an express covenant with Satan, and have after acknowledged his help and assistance, for their dex- terous managing so dreadful a design. If you think this strange, you should consider, that the devil him- self is transformed into an angel of light. But it is well, that the grossest defilement of men can nowise stain religion, and the way of the Lord, which is pure and undefiled.
VIII. These sad jars and divisions, which are so fre- quent in the church of Christ, may seem very strange, and be cause of stumbling and offence to many, that whilst the world is at such an agreement, and of one mind to oppose the truth, these are oft found at war, most bitterly contending amongst themselves ; even those who should stand in the breach, for the truth and in defence of the gospel ; the fellow servants at strife, and smiting one another, when they should be
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striving together about their Master's work. I confess this is sad, and is a rock whereon many have split, of which they have made that use to a further heighten- ing of their prejudice against the truth. Yea, it is strange, that this destroying plague doth so observa- bly attend any peace or calm that the church hath in her outward condition; but there is no cause for such stumbling. If we will allow it some serious thoughts, it may rather help to fix and establish us in the way of the Lord, and instead of being a poison, may be an effectual antidote against the same ; I mean, the athe- ism of the time, which pretends so great an advantage from this. For the Scripture is clear,
1. Though it is a sore stroke on the church ; and the most sad departure of God from a people which wehave upon divine record, we find usually trysts them in such a torn and divided case ; yea, though in all the records of after-times, this may be traced in the breaking up of a judgment as a very immediate forerunner thereof, yet, have we no warrant to expect the church militant shall be in that condition, in which there shall be no such discord and breach. No, that is heaven, and it is there only that perfect peace and concord will be found : read 1 Cor. i. 10 ; Rom. xv. 5. And what an early trial was this to the church, which did occa- sion that grave and solemn meeting of the apostles and eiders (Acts xv.), to let us see, how the Lord can serve himself of the greatest evil, for the advantage of his truth.
2. There is no cause of challenge here, or reflect- ing on the truth, whatever be on those who profess it, since the Scripture shews we know but in part, and prophesy in part ; and have such a prevailing mixture of corruption, that some will preach Christ
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out of strife and contention, not sincerely, (Phil. i. 15) ; yea, whilst there are such different sizes amongst the saints, that these who eat not, are ready to judge them who eat, and those who eat, are ready to despise him who eateth not.
3. If we consult the Scripture, we shall find that peace and concord within the church, which is so excellent in itself and desirable, must be severely qualified with respect to holiness, (Heb. xii. 14), for else, such an agreement would not be the true peace of the church, but her plague. And is not that wis- dom which is from above, first pure, and then peace- able 1 It is sure they are its best friends, who have least latitude to take or give in the interest of truth ; but it is oft found, how such indirect tamper- ings for peace, have in the judgment of the Lord caused a further breach. There is no true jar betwixt the zeal of God, and an ardent desire and endeavour for peace, but what our corruption causeth. Oh, this is a blessed peace-maker, who can go the furthest length to yield in his own things, whether credit or private interest, yea, overlook the most sharp personal re- flections to promote that excellent design ; but hath nothing to yield or quit upon his master's interests, and can resist whosoever they be that would prejudge this, even to their face. Have we not that heroic practice of the apostle (Gal. ii. 5), upon divine record to this day, " To whom we gave place, no, not for an hour, that the truth of the gospel might continue with you." Is not that also a special remark, that those who cause division in the church, and were therefore to be noted (Rom. xvi. 17), were those, who did oppose the doctrine of the church \ For it is men's falling off from the truth, which is indeed the cause of a-
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schism and rent, but not their adherence to it ; though for this they should be men of contention, and looked on as signs and wonders in the time.
4. Whatever advantage some may take to challenge the way of the Lord, from these breaches, I am sure they cannot deny, that there is a fellowship and con- cord in the church of Christ, beyond any in the world. There is a communion of the saints, even here, with one heart and mind, yea, in such a measure, as may shew the world, this is a bond that exceeds the most near and strait ties of natural relations, (Eph. iv. 3-16) ; and truly, every jar and difference amongst the fol- lowers of Christ, makes not a breach.
IX. I know that this will seem strange and asto- nishing in the way of the Lord, that when the church from her adversaries without is oppressed and brought low, his hand in a very immediate way also is so heavy, yea, seems more sore upon his people than the hand of men ; and does even by some sad strokes in their private interests, and upon their persons, appear more remarkably against them, than against any others. This may occasion great thoughts of heart, when we consider that tenderness which the Lord doth witness towards his people, that he stirs not up all his wrath, nor will lay upon them above that they can bear ; but stays his rough-wind in the day of the east-wind, and hath promised to be a sanctuary and hiding-place when they are scattered by men, (Ezek. ii. 6). And with another party the church might debate, yea, hold her own with her greatest adver- saries. But, oh ! it is time to fly, and there can be no standing, where the Almighty pursues : there is then true cause of fear and terror when he becomes his people's party.
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But let us consult the Scripture, that great inter- preter of providence, and of every step of the way and procedure of the Lord with his church, and it will let us see, 1. That it is no strange case or un- trodden path, but we may find the prophet (Jer. xvii. 17), at such a grievous cry, " Be not a terror to me ; thou art my hope in the evil day." And had not the church the same cause of complaint (Jer xxx. 14-16), " That the Lord seemed to wound her with the wound of an enemy, and the stroke of a cruel one V It was the appearance of this, that was a very sad addition to her trial, beyond any other thing (Isa. lxiii. 10), that they found the Lord turned to be their enemy, and in an immediate way seemed to fight against them.
2. Does not the Scripture shew, that the rod may have a dreadful appearance, and the way of the Lord, by some strange and singular circumstances in dealing with his people, may be matter of amaze- ment, when he designs a further increase of their grace ; yea, their trial more than their punishment ? This is indeed one of the depths of providence, which we have discovered in the first and second chap- ters of Job, how, by a divine permission, Satan may very effectually concur in a stroke on the church, or some particular Christian, and thus cause a strange concurrence of embittering things ; that in such a case the hand of the Lord would seem very terrible, whilst he only minds his people's trial. And it is clear, that the fiery trial mentioned by the apostle (1 Pet. iv. 12), may have such strange and singular circumstances, that the godly will be at a question, if such did ever befal others. And yet, you see it there held forth more as a ground of joy, than of fear. Oh, how deep
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in afflicting times of the church may the plot and contrivance of the devil be, which in the holy counsel of the Lord is oft forced to run against its own bias, and to bring forth the very contrary effect.
3. If we understand the Scripture, we may there know, how the trials of the church have their appointed bounds and measure ; yea, by some remarkable steps will grow that length, and have such an advance, until they surround it on all hands : " Thou hast called my terrors round about, as in a solemn day," (Lam. ii. 22). Yet, when it is so, we find it is not without cause, but may be needful for the church and parti- cular Christians, to be in heaviness through manifold temptations, (1 Pet. i. 6). And truly, in such an unusual tryst and variety of straits, the tendency thereof is oft seen for as manifold use and advantage, as the many afflicting ingredients in that trial have been remarkable.
4. We may also see from the Scripture, . what an usual resemblance there is betwixt the public lot of the church in suffering times, and the private case of the saints ; how under some sad trial and departure of the Lord from his people, his dispen- sations are many ways corrective and judicial, that then reach them in all their personal interests : there is a backsliding time, and a day when judgment particularly points at the green tree, which useth not to be a comforting time ; that then Satan is more observably let loose to afflict, and few will miss some touch of his hand. Read Lamentations i. 2, where you find the sword abroad devouring, a time of pub- lic judgment, and then it was at home also as death : and in the sixteenth verse, under such sore afflicting strokes, there is one further held forth, that was most
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embittering of all to the godly in that time, — the comforter who should relieve their soul was far off. It is clear, nothing does more endear a mercy, and make it sweet, than the Lord's immediate appear- ance therein; and nothing does more embitter the rod, which put David to that cry, " Remove that stroke from me, I am consumed by the blow of thine hand," (Psalm xxxix.).
5. Upon a serious inquiry anent this strang-e thing, may we not understand the meaning thereof by the Scripture, why in some trials the Lord does thus shew himself his people's party, and his hand more heavy on them than on others, that there is some provoking cause whereat these providences clearly point ? "When the godly are pursuing their ease and satisfaction under the rod, more than to answer its design ; when they are ready to take mortification, and a humble stooping under trouble, for a couching underneath their burden, it is not then strange, though that sad woe (Amos vi. 6) do so far reach them, as their personal ease makes them forget the affliction of Joseph. For thus the right- eous God suits their stroke to the sin, and keeps such a proportion, that a light burden of the care of the church should make their care otherwise abound, and in their own things press them with much trouble, when these go betwixt them and the interest of Christ. There is a very unseen cause oft, why many of the saints may be sick, and some falling asleep ; yea, this truth must be likewise verified, — There is a saving of things, by which we put them in further hazard ; and a securing thereof, by a surrender to the Lord. An immoderate fear of a stroke from men, to the prejudice of present and necessary duty, may bring with it some sad immediate strokes in the dis-
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pleasure of the Lord from his hand; yea, that he should thus bereave his church of many choicest in- struments, by his very immediate hand, to make it appear, the anger and jealousy of the Most High God are more to be dreaded, than the wrath and violence of all our adversaries. But yet in the close of these judgments, even when a church may seem quite con- sumed, and her strength worn out, have we not there some ground of hope, that the Lord may prevent his people's thoughts, by as marvellous, as immediate re- storing providences, when he sees their power is gone, and that there is none to help ? Yea, is it not easy with Him, and like his way, to return and restore what the former years have taken away, by the lo- cust and caterpillar which he had sent amongst them ? (Joel ii. 25).
X. There is a step of the holy providence of God and his unspotted judgment, which would also seem strange and amazing ; that which is inflicted upon the soul and conscience by an immediate stroke of judicial induration. And it is very evident, — oh how undeniably evident and clear at this day ! — that men under great light, and some special discoveries of God, after known convictions and wrestlings of con- science, yea, after solemn engagements, and their de- clared resolution to follow the Lord in his way, have yet come such a length and degree in a deliberate re- sisting, and opposing themselves to him and his truth, without the least appearance of a check or trouble. I confess, this is one of the marvellous things of God, and a very visible demonstration of his being, who hath such a dominion over the soul, both in its hard- ening and softening. But there is no cause to stumble hereat ; it does truly call us to fear, and is a stroke
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that may force on atheists the awful conviction of a Deity ; or though it is not felt by those who are under the same, because the want of sense and feel- ing is a part of that dis ease, yet all who look on (if they did not shut their own eyes) may learn to know this is the very work of God, and a piece of his judg- ment which he makes known in the earth. But let us ask the Scripture, and we shall find instead of any ground for stumbling, what a special confirmation this should be of the truth, since it is clear,
1. How in this, the way of the Lord is holy and righteous, who is under no debt, no obligation to the sons of men (Rom. ix. 18), but is absolutely free to let forth grace to, or withhold from, whom he pleaseth ; his blessed will being the alone rule of righteousness, he comprehends the reason of all his counsel and judgments, which are to us incomprehensible ; yet does he so far condescend to let men see his unspotted justice, as well as his sovereignty, in this shine forth, that they who are unjust by a deliberate choice, should be unjust still by a further arrest (Rev. xxii.), and those who will not hearken, and will have none of him, should be delivered up to the lusts of their own heart, (Psal. lxxxi. 11). We see in what a measure Pharaoh was hardened of the Lord, which was a plague worse than the other ten ; but we find (Exod. viii. 15), that Pharaoh hardened his own heart, and thus was a stroke suited to such a resolute resisting of light. 2. Does not the Scripture shew the mar- vellous convoy of this judgment (Isa. vi. 9), how this sad sentence is immediately passed on the soul ; yea, by these most singular means, the word and ordinances for enlivening, is executed thereon, men preached deaf and dead, where others find life ? This is a
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stroke that does not draw a bar betwixt them, and external fellowship with the ordinances ; but, oh ! it draws an invisible bar betwixt them, and the power and efficacy thereof. It is a judgment that walks in the dark, and binds where none can loose ; it killeth without a cry, yea, gives men a death-stroke, when the pain of that wound is not felt. 3. Do you not see how this strange judgment is in as great a height and measure held forth by the Scripture, as you see it in any example before your eyes, that men will be mad in their opposition to God, even when he is most remarkably opposing them ; such as Ahaz, who did trespass the more, the more he was distressed ■? (2 Chron. xxviii. 22). Yea, such, who with these men of Sodom would grope after the door, and persist in that wickedness, when God hath immediately smitten them with blindness for the same 1 Oh, what may be the next stroke, where men renew their assault against God, after he hath once and again smitten them, who, instead of repenting under his sore plagues, turn enraged, to blaspheme him who hath power over the same % Is not that a strange degree of judicial induration (Acts vii. 57), that when they saw the face of Stephen shine, and looked stedfastly thereon, they did then run with fury against him ? Yea, it may be seen in all ages, that such a length this judg- ment will come, to look on the most convincing ex- traordinary judgments of God on others, and yet not be moved therewith themselves, that when his hand is lifted up, they will not see, but the posterity take up the same quarrel, and pursue it, wherein they have seen their fathers fall under the stroke of an aveng- ing God. 4. We may also know from the Scripture, how deep this judgment may draw in its dreadful
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effects ; what a judicial arrest is thus served on men, by which they are bound over to destruction, and their bands made strong on them, as that they can neither stir nor move, but as malefactors shut up in gaol, and under fetters ; "which is not more evident before the execution, than this arrest on their soul is by obduration, before some further stroke. Thus they He near destruction, and a blow that is irreco- verable, who have hardened themselves under frequent reproofs, (Prov. xxix.). It is known what Pharaoh's last rebuke was, after he had rejected many : it stands upon public record to after-ages. I shall add, is there not something of hell here, and of these everlasting fetters, in some measure made visible in the earth % — ■ for where light and conviction resolve into rage and malice against the truth, nothing can be more like hell, or have a more near resemblance to the devil.
XI. I shall add one instance more, which may seem also strange, and a marvellous piece of the providence of God, — that the righteous should fall, and have one event with the wicked in a time of judgment. Whilst we see some notour for wickedness, and their horrid actings in opposition to the church, go to the grave in peace, as to any remarkable stroke from the Lord upon them, I know men are ready to wonder hereat ; yea, thence an atheist will infer things must fall out at an adventure. But oh, if those would bring this to the Scripture, and set it fore-against the same, they should there see how convincingly it is verified, and that there is nothing here which does not clearly agree with that blessed record : for it shews, 1. That by no external providences, or any thing dispensed within time, yea, by no affliction ob- vious to sense, the way of the Lord, and his respects
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to his people can be judged, even amidst the great variety of events which here fall out ; but we are in this obliged to adore God, whose judgments are in- comprehensible, when we see at the same time a just man perish in his righteousness, and a wicked man prolong his life in wickedness, (Eccl. vii. 15). 2. The Scripture gives us this return also anent such a providence, why the sword devours both, and as Saul and Jonathan fall together, that there the Lord does in a special way make difference betwixt one and another. Josiah died in peace, as was promised (2 Kings xxii. 20), yet he fell upon the high places of the field in the common judgment ; but he was then taken from the evil to come, yea, thus was delivered, even by a stroke of the hot displeasure of God on others. It is not strange, that some may be hid in the grave from a further storm, by the same judg- ment wherein the Lord is pursuing the land in which they have their abode. 3. It is clear from the Scrip- ture, how small an accession to a sinful course, may, in the holy displeasure of God, bring some of his people under the same stroke with his adversaries, and so far involve them in that judgment. We find (Psal. i. 1), there is a standing in the way, and join- ing in the counsel of the ungodly, held forth as a partaking with them in their sin ; and the ninth chapter of Ezekiel tells us, that not mourning for, and witnessing a dissent against the national sins of the time, puts men far out of that blessed roll of those whom the Lord does make difference from others, by a mark of his preservation.
Now, as to that other, how it is the wicked pro- long their days in wickedness, and may go in some external peace to the grave ; do but inquire at the
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Scripture, and it will shew, 1. It was no less strange to the prophet Jeremiah (chapter xii.), "Yea, they prosper and take root." Did it not amaze that blessed man (Psal. lxxiii.), that not only " their eyes stand out with fatness," but, " they have no bands in their death ?" But, 2. Is not the way of the Lord in this manifest, how graciously he prevents some by a sad temporal stroke, and can serve himself of a scaffold or gibbet, to bring about their mercy, as he did to the thief on the cross, whilst he plagues others by a long forbearance, and his holding off such strokes 1 (Eccl. viii. 11). The dreadful effects whereof are held forth ; because sentence is not speedily executed against wick- ed men, their heart is therefore set on mischief. 3. As in every age we are called to adore the sovereignty of God in such a thing, he gives men also cause to ob- serve his great judgments ; some remarkable strokes on his adversaries, which they cannot pass without such a remark, " Behold a man that made not God his strength," (Psal. lii. 7). But we must further wait for that fall discrimination, which the last sentence of the Judge shall put betwixt those who fear the Lord, and those who fear him not.
The Third Argument for the Scripture's ac- complishment, is this; — That which not only the Christian's experience, and observation of the church beareth witness thereto, but is also a truth, which even to the view and conviction of the world may be de- monstrated, from whom it doth oft force a testimony ; yea, in every age the worst of men have been forced to acknowledge it must be a thing very evident. But the accomplishment of the Scripture can be thus wit- nessed ; therefore, &c.
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It is true, these sweet and sensible enjoyments which the saints have of this truth, the world cannot reach ; but it is also sure, that in every age the works of the Lord, and some more notour convincing providences both of judgment and mercy, do solemnly invite men to observe the accomplishment of the word therein ; yea, no time hath wanted something of a public wit- ness from ungodly men, even greatest mockers of re- ligion, who under that constraining power of con- science, at death, or in some day of their strait, have been forced to seal the truth, by a very open confes- sion of the righteousness of God towards them. And this is indeed the Lord's blessed design, in making his works sometime so conspicuous, that they may not only confirm the faith of his people, but render atheism in- excusable, that the glory of his faithfulness, as well as of his power and wisdom, may shine forth before the sons of men. I confess, we may wonder why the world looketh so little upon this, and how the conviction of so great a truth, which they cannot shun, doth not more press them. But the Holy Ghost doth fully resolve this. The brutish man knoweth not, neither do fools lay to heart, how the Scripture taketh place, that the flourishing of wicked men is but in judgment for their further ruin.
To prosecute this argument a little, — there are some special truths I would instance, wherein the faithful- ness of God in fulfilling his word may be seen by the world, yea, is obvious to the most ordinary observers. And though they be but a few which I shall here touch, yet I must say, they are such concerning truths, and have so near a reference to the foundation of our faith, that men cannot acknowledge the same, but must also confess the Scripture's divinity, and that
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there is a truth and reality in godliness, and in Chris- tian religion. I may truly here with some confidence challenge the greatest atheists, yea, appeal them to their conscience and serious thoughts, if in these fol- lowing instances (though but a little of what might be said on such a subject), the truth and accomplish- ment of the Scripture be not very manifest.
First, I shall hold forth this truth, that man is surely fallen from that excellent estate wherein once he was formed (Rom. y. 18, 19), and now is not that which he was at the beginning ; a truth so clear, that we may say, even without the discovery of the word, it might be easy for any serious on-looker to discern the same. Yea, had not even heathens some glance at this, the evidence whereof they could not altogether shun 1
It is true, the cause and original of this dreadful contagion, how sin entered into the world ; how it is derived to the whole race of man, imputation, as well as inhesion ; how that poison is carried from the foun- tain to the cistern, the Scripture doth only discover. But this I am sure may be obvious to all, that poor man is thus sick and diseased, and now beareth the marks of such a fall and ruin, as we read of in the word. I confess it is strange, that when this is so very convincing and manifest, it should not force men to some more serious inquiry, whence such a thing is, or if there can be a recovery of so sad and desperate-like a case. But to clear this a little, I would offer these three things to be considered :
1. That there is some remainder of that excellent fabric, which may yet appear among its ruins ; some prmt and appearance (though dark) of that primitive lustre and beauty ; some draughts which sin hath not
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wholly worn out, that may clearly tell what man once was, and point out his former excellency ; that he hath been another wight, of whom Absalom's cha- racter might be truly said, "without all blemish from the head to the foot." For we see the deep impres- sions of a Deity still rooted in men, even among the most wild and savage, which no invention can utterly raze : we see some common principles of reason, that are imprinted on the most rude and ignorant, some innate notions and ideas, which the soul hath of good and evil, among all, and in every place of the earth ; likewise, these natural truths (xo/vai zvwai), which we may see are nowise impressed on the soul from any objects of sense, but such whereto men, by an una- voidable necessity, are forced to assent. And besides, what meaneth the witness of the conscience, and authority thereof in every man, which they cannot possibly decline \ Oh, do not these witness, that from some great height poor man hath fallen %
2. Doth not the present appearance of man's nature clearly shew he is fallen into some dreadful disease ; that it is surely overspread with some horrid leprosy and contagion, the symptoms whereof now are most discernible 1 Oh, what an exorbitancy doth appear in his desires ; with what contrary tides is he hurried % — still at jar with his present lot. His reason and will, once in a sweet league, are now at war, betwixt which he is often rent in pieces, as one betwixt wild horses. How is he now restless in an unreasonable pursuit 1 he laboureth in the fire, and for a shadow. Yea, what do these tumults and commotions of the earth mean ; men upon the smallest account sheathing their swords in other's bowels, Jiorrio liomini lupus (man, a wolf to man), rupture in families, insatiable
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in revenge, and the earth so oft in an uproar, as a raging sea ? Oh, do not these too visibly witness, what a dreadful disorder and perturbation there must be within, impetuous boiling of man's lusts ; so that here we may see a very manifest rupture, and breach of a building once well knit and framed.
3. I would ask, wherein man's true advantage and excellency above others of the creatures can be seen, if not with some respect to that he once was, and that blessed restoration by grace ; for his knowledge doth oft serve but to increase his sorrow, to shew the good he wanteth, and the evil he is subject to. Is there any of the creatures subject to such outward misery and pain, to so many diseases ? yea, as to a sensual life, may we not say, the beasts have even some pre- ference ? Or are these so unruly % Do they so much go out of their bounds and station, which the many laws made for man in the world, with the convincing necessity thereof, can witness \ We see also, that sore travail is appointed to man ; at how much toil he is for an outward subsistence, how he doth oft sow, and not reap ; the beasts withdraw from the yoke, these over whom he had dominion, ready to assault him ; how women bring forth their children in sorrow ; the men are attended with fear, their life oft made bitter with care and labour; yea, as men increase in the world, their care and discontent increasing therewith. But besides all, is he not in the greatest slavery of all the creatures, through the violence of his lusts, that make him pursue the bait, though he knoweth it will undo him ; while his corruption doth oft, like a strong man, bind him in fetters, and his flesh imperi- ously drag him at its heels \ Oh, may we not say. Was poor man thus framed at the beginning; or
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raised so far above the rest of tlie creatures, only to make him the more miserable ? For truly, if a vive portraiture could be drawn of sinful depraved nature, there is none so gross, but should abhor, yea, be af- frighted, to see that in the third person, with which, alas ! they so friendlily comply in themselves.
Second, That so great a change is truly wrought upon men in conversion, as the Scripture doth pro- mise, and hold forth, (John iii. 3, 6 ; Eph. ii. 1, 5 ; Col. iii. 1, 2); wherein something above nature, even the marvellous power of the grace of God, may be seen, is a truth, I am sure, known and undeniable to the world, yea, the greatest mockers at] religion must con- fess can be no delusion, but is indeed real and certain, upon these following grounds :
1. That the -most gross, who in their practice have been notoriously profane, in the place wherein they lived, it hath been seen how grace hath reached them ; and thus the leopard hath been made to change his spots, and such who were accustomed to do evil, have learned to do well. Oh, do not many famous instances witness this in every age? 2. That also men most prin- cipled in their judgment against the way of God, who were wont to deride holiness as fancy, even on such, so great a change hath been wrought, as hath made the world to wonder; but then they were forced to lay down their prejudice, yea, to wonder at themselves, how they could stand before the truth so long, whereof they have got such an impression. Sure, athiests must grant, that there have been as professed athiests as themselves, who have been made eminent examples of grace. 3. That such even in the height of their wickedness, (like Paul breathing out cruelty, and of late, Vergerius, while he was writing against the
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truth), grace hath sometimes reached them. It hath been found, that of Christ's greatest enemies, some have thus fallen upon their high places, before the power of the word. Some such trophies of the gospel's conquest have been conspicuous in every age ; yea, it is oft seen, that some remarkable height in sin, hath proved an evident crisis and turn in men's condition, either to judgment or mercy. 4. That such eminent adversaries of the truth have, through grace, been made eminently useful instruments in the church, the world cannot deny ; that there have not been choicer vessels of honour, more zealous for the Lord in their time, than such who were once most violent in their opposi- tion. 5. That such whom the world did reckon most wise and discerning, yea, that did want no judgment to know the value of outward things, as well as others, grace hath reached. Can the atheists object, Do any of the Rulers or Rabbies believe in Christ, or follow that way ; when; it is so clear, that not more wise, learned, and judicious (even themselves being judges), have been in their time, than some who are most serious in the matter of religion \ 6. Hath not this change been made discernible upon the simple, the most stupid and dull, yea, upon some such, as a natural in- capacity might have obstructed the work, if something above nature had not carried it on, — which maybe also manifest, by some change even on their understanding, to shew that this can make the simple wise, and that in the way of holiness, the way- faring man, though a fool, shall not err % 7. That by a very improbable mean, — the word, — and that sometimes by weakest instruments, we see this great change hath been wrought. And it is remarkable, how little of the work of conversion did follow the putting forth of miracles
Q
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in the primitive times ; but by the simplicity of the preached gospel, much more ; for indeed the conver- sion of a soul, and such a change, is itself some way a miracle. 8. That they are not a few on whom this change hath been wrought, is undeniable. And truly, besides these ordinary proofs, I think it is a great want there should not be some more special record by the church, of these illustrious and eminent instances of the grace of God, which have been in such an age, as well as remarkable instancesof judgment. 9. Men must see, that this falleth not out at an adventure, which is wrought upon one, and not another, while both are alike discerning ; yea, some who seem farthest from the grace of God, very gross and rude have been taken, when the more civil and refined, and of a more promising natural disposition, have been past by. Oh, doth not this witness the grace of God, and so- vereignty thereof? 10. Is not this change oft dis- cernible upon men, in a time while no advantage from without doth appear ? even times of persecution and hazard, from which many have dated their first ac- quaintance with God, when they could expect nothing but a suffering lot : sure there must be something above nature in it. 11. It is also known, how great a cloud of witnesses have sealed this truth. Oh, can there be such a universal enchantment, that in every age, in several, yea in most remote places of the earth, hath fallen upon so many, who have witnessed the power of the gospel ? Or can all these be void of understanding ? What gain or outward advantage could they design in that, which is so usually attended with outward hazard and loss ; or what credit from men, while it maketh them the very butt of the world's hatred and reproach ? Yea, can it be thought,
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that all these could have combined to conspire into so great a cheat ? I must appeal atheists to their serious thoughts of this matter. 12. The marvellous effect of this change, doth it not witness this is no fancy or delusion, when men are reached with such a stroke, and by one word, as hath made the stout- hearted and most daring to tremble, and to shew by their very countenance, that there is another tribunal than man's, before which they are arraigned \ Must it not be sad earnest and a marvellous power, that can make so willing a divorce betwixt men and their idols, which were once as their right eye to them ; and beat them off that ground of self-righteousness, which they had been so long establishing to themselves ; that should cause them also choose the reproach of Christ and his cross, before any outward advantage, and abandon that society, without which sometimes they could not live 1 Must not this speak forth some- thing above natural reason \ Oh, may not the world oft wonder what is become of their old friends 1 — though I confess, this should rather put them with wonder and astonishment, to some serious inquiry, whence so great a change can be.
It is strange that the world does not more wonder at conversion, which is so great a miracle, yea, may be said, one of the greatest that hath been in the earth ; since it is no less marvellous, than to raise out of the grave such who are truly dead. Oh, how con- vincingly demonstrative is this of the truth and reality of grace ; yea, even to the view of the world, does witness an irresistible efficacious power with the word, that converteth the soul, enlightens the eye, and maketh wise the simple, (Psal. xix. 7). Should
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we not with astonishment look on a Christian, if we did seriously consider what a change the grace of God makes here, from that he once was, and how great a change glory will ere long make from that he now is \ I know there are many things we wonder at from our ignorance ; but, oh ! it is men's ignorance and estrangement from this that makes it so little their wonder; for, if we be assuredly persuaded of the truth of conversion, which the world cannot deny, without a contradiction both to sense and reason, we have then three great truths unanswerably demon- strated : 1. That the scripture of God is faithful and true, which holds this forth. 2. That there is a divine Spirit, and a power above nature, that does certainly accompany the same. 3. It is then clear, there are two contrary states in another world, since they are here so manifest. Now, besides these evidences already mentioned, I would here offer some further, upon so grave and weighty a subject, to shew how very clear and convincing the demonstration of this truth is, that the world cannot but see the very immediate power of God, and something above nature in conver- sion, if they do not shut their eyes thereat. Consider but these :—
1. Is it not a strange and marvellous thing, that could change one species of a creature into another ; turn a wolf or tiger into a lamb % Sure this would be astonishing : yet such a change is here, which makes so vast a difference betwixt one and himself, takes him off his former delights and exercises, his old friends and society with whom he once thought the time short ; yea, causes the man who was a persecutor of the truth, and took pleasure therein, to rejoice to
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suffer persecution on that same account. I think the world will not debate, where so many known instances are at all times obvious.
2. Is it not marvellous, which can estrange men from their worldly interests, and take their heart off that which was as their right eye, and subdue under them that which once took them captive at its plea- sure % Oh, does it not shew, they have got their eyes opened to see things which were formerly hid % Yea, how strange is it that those, whose predominant feel- ing was love to the world, and have been in their natural disposition most narrow and griping, that they could not allow themselves the comfortable use of that they had, even these this change hath so powerfully reached, to cause a willing surrender and quitting of all for Christ ? I could offer known instances anent this, and these at as great an advantage then in the exercise of their judgment and reason as ever, whom the world might see were most serious and composed therein.
3. Would you debate the efficacious power of that which should melt and dissolve the hardest stone ; and may you not wonder what a power this must be, which will make men melt and dissolve in tears, and stand trembling before the word, who through their life were known to be most obdured and stupid \ Yea, is not this great change sometimes with such terror and down-casting ushered in, that may convince on-lookers, it is a matter of greatest earnest, and no counterfeit \ — and that surely, those must be reached by some power, before which there is no standing %
4. How great a thing is that which takes men un- awares, beyond their thoughts and intention 1 Mat- thew and those other disciples did not know in the
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morning, what should befall tliem before niglit. It was indeed a happy day, when on their return, they had that account to give, " We have found the Mes- sias ;" and it is sure, many since have been thus sur- prised, yea, in one hour have got such a sight, which will never go from their heart. They now see what report could never have made them believe ; they now know what it is to be taken out of a dreadful gulf of darkness, unto a marvellous light ; and truly, there is this usually discernible in it, how some one word will force its passage, and take fire within, as a word beyond all others fitly spoken, and fitted by di- vine appointment to open the heart.
5. It is a marvellous change which does even reach young ones, and these sometimes of an age little above infancy ; for it is certainly known how such, whose years might shew there was no design to cheat the world, yea, sometimes in a family where little advantage for their education hath appeared, have given evidence of this, wonderfully above them- selves and their age ; yea, at death have witnessed some power of the grace of God, and his Spirit on their soul, their hope and the grounds of it, with such judgment and seriousness, as hath forced on by- standers this discovery, of an immediate teaching of the Spirit, and of a mighty power of God, that can witness in these ere they can well speak or exercise reason, the power of religion. Oh, whence should this be ? And truly for the truth thereof, I could offer known instances, if it should be brought on de- bate, i
6. What a change is it that does also reach men in their old age, .who have been long rooted and in- ured to the world ; who have sat many a call in their
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resisting the gospel % Yet is it not seen how these in their old grey hairs, have been made to weep and confess, after sixty or seventy years living under the gospel, that then only they began to know what it is to be Christians 1 I confess, this is one of the rare trophies of the grace of God ; yet no age wants some such instances to prove, how far grace can prevail over nature, custom, education, and all these disad- vantages which use to follow the time of old age.
7. What a strange power is it, which hath been so evidently witnessed on some horridly flagitious, who have out-run others in all manner of wickedness ; yea, even then whilst justice was crying for punishment to cut them off, grace hath stepped in to save, and reached them at a scaffold or gibbet. It is sure the world cannot question this truth ; and oh, should it not be convincing to see two brought to a public death for some gross crime, who have the same hazard before them, the same means made use of for their convic- tion ; yet the one melting in contrition, the other most obdured ? You cannot say that this is from a different nature and constitution, since sometimes those of a more promising nature, and better disposition, have been further off, than such of whom least was expected.
8. Is it not a strange change, which even on those where no ordinary means could be subservient, can be witnessed, where no company, no example, no usual way for instruction can be alleged, so that it may be seen, they have been truly taught of the Lord ; that there is such a thing as his immediate teaching ; that in a very extraordinary way, by means most impro- bable, he can convey himself into the soul \ In a word, this can be no result of one's natural complexion, for then it would appear in, and accompany their younger,
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years in some measure, and grow up with them : this change also in those of most different natures, most unlike and cross to others' humour and disposition, is made discernible: yea, must it not be something above moral suasion, or any persuasives of human eloquence, since here the foolishness of preaching is found more effectual, than any such way ? Yea, it is seen how the most sublime and polished strains of oratory, and greatest gifts, have oft come short of that success which hath followed more improbable means. I shall add, oh, is not this something above nature, which makes men partake of the divine nature, and does so visibly impress the image of God on them \
I shall shut this up with two remarkable instances of the power and efficacy of grace in conversion, of which in every age there may be a large record :
First, That excellent man Junius, whose life we have in some measure set down by himself, with many notable remarks of providences, and who therein shews the Lord's engaging him at first; how being very loose, and carried away with evil company, yea, tempted to Atheism, he was one day moved to go and read the Scripture, and at the first opening, was trysted with that of the first of John ; which, whilst he read, as he says, did suddenly astonish him, and leave a mar- vellous conviction on his soul, of the divinity of the subject, the majesty and authority of the writings, that all day he knew not where and what he was, but thus turns himself with these words to the Lord, " Thou wast mindful of me, 0 my God, according to the mul- titude of thy tender mercies." Yea, he gives this account, that he then had a sight of the Scripture, which made him see it did exceed all human eloquence ; and this was followed with such power, that his body
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trembled, and his mind became astonished at such a surprising and marvellous light, and from that day he began to be serious in the way of the Lord.
A second instance I shall offer, is the remarkable conversion of worthy Mr Bolton, a choice minister in the Church of England, in whose life this is recorded, that being eminently profane, a horrid swearer, and much accustomed to mock at holiness, and these who most shined therein, and particularly that excellent man of God, Mr Perkins, then preacher in Cambridge, whom he much undervalued for his plainness in preach- ing the truths of God ; yea, was near the length of popery. But on the Lord's gracious appearance to him, he was put to have other thoughts, with a very remarkable change upon him, though with that terror, that as he said himself, the Lord seemed to run upon him like a giant, throwing him to the ground ; and with such a terrifying discovery of sin, caused him roar in anguish, and oft rise in the night on that ac- count; which continued for divers months. Yea, these assaults in the pangs of the new -birth were such, that it might have been said, JJt nee color, necsensus, nee sanguis superesset, (That neither complexion, sen- sation, nor blood remained in him) ; but at last a blessed sunshine brake up, and shining light.
Third, That communion and fellowship with God, whereto the saints are in this life admitted, and brought near to him in the Spirit, is a most real thing, and no delusion, is a truth which may be very convincingly demonstrated, even to the view of the world, and to such who are but on-lookers on the same, (1 John i. 3, Phil. iii. 20). I know this is a truth that must be spiritually discerned, and there- fore the world cannot know it, or reach that unspeak-
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able joy and delight, which is found by the saints in that sweet path ; yet I must say, there are some things, and some such convincing evidences, as may witness to men, and rationally demonstrate the same ; the con- viction whereof they cannot possibly shun, if they but come near, and in their serious thoughts consider,
1. How great and excellent a company do bear this testimony ; even as many as in every time did ever serve God in the Spirit. Is not this transmitted by the fathers to the children as their experience, and as certainly tried by succeeding ages 1 — a truth which is not once or twice proved in the Christian's life, for the proofs thereof are innumerable and past reckoning, which they have had ; yea, amongst all the saints, since the days of Abel to this present time, there was never one contradictory witness could be produced.
2. Are not those who do thus testify what they have oft found in secret retirements to God, such whose testimony in any other matter, the worst of men could not refuse or deny to be worthy 1 I am sure the world is convinced, that the followers of Christ dare not, yea, use not to deal falsely in other things with those they have to do with, however their malice carry them to reproach them ; yea, that they are more to be credited than such who make a scorn of religion.
3. Have they not had as great interest and share of the world as others, and been of as discerning spirits to know the true value of things, who from their experience do not only declare, there is an un- doubted reality in converse with God, but that the joy and delight herein which they have found, is above all the pleasures of the flesh \ Oh, what must that be, which could make such who wanted no outward
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allurements, who had not lost their taste, and were flesh and blood as well as others, to turn their back on all for Christ, and by their walk testify they have found some more satisfying enjoyment in fellowship with God \
4. Must not this be very obvious and convincing, that when men once become serious in the way of God, they have got some new acquaintance, that surely, there is another world, and some other society than that of men, with which they have intercourse ? Whence are those frequent retirements, from which they have been seen so oft to come forth with greatest satisfaction, and with some remarkable change in their case % Doth it not thus appear, they are not alone, when they are alone ; yea, in such a solitude must find something very desirable \
5. Is not this also testified in times, when men could not well dissemble, or be suspected of deceit ; in times of great outward affliction, when the world also hath been most tempting with its offers ; yea, at death, when they are stepping over that threshold, a time wherein the words of dying men are of greatest weight and credit, the spirits of such being then more unbiassed, and free of these ordinary temptations wherewith others are swayed % How oft have they at such times declared, that surely God is familiar with men, which they have found ; and though they were going to change their place, yet were not to change their company %
6. Can that be a delusion, which is so sensible in the present time, whereof the saints are not more sure that they live, than they are sure of this truth % What near approaches and refreshing views they have got, while God hath come near to their soul % What
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a discernible elevation of their spirits doth go along with this ? Yea, on the other hand, as the with- drawing hereof is very sensible to themselves, is there not something of this even obvious to bystanders, how great a change and difference this will make in their case from other times, which they cannot get hid?
7. Doth not something of this truth appear on the very countenance, and outward carriage of Christians % What a lustre and resemblance of heaven, a holy staidness and composure of spirit, when they have been brought near God, in secret converse with him, and taken up to the mountain ! In a word, doth not the walk of a serious mortified Christian convincingly witness this ; yea, cannot but be some way astonish- ing to the world, what should make them look so well, and with such satisfaction, when there is no visible cause for it ; when they are shut up in prison from converse with friends and acquaintances ? Sure, men will not think rational spirits so demented, as to quit their former pleasures, and choose the cross, that they may only deceive the world, with a coun- terfeit joy and satisfaction, if they did not really find the same. And while it is too, too evident, what a dreadful society and commerce many have with the devil, should any question or debate, whether the saints have truly communion and fellowship with God the Father of spirits, whom they serve and worship ?
Fourth, That the righteous is more excellent than his neighbour (Prov. xii. 26), and hath another spirit, which is greater and more choice than that which is in the world, is a truth, which I am sure men, not- withstanding all their prejudice, must needs confess ; and that therein the Scripture is truly verified, when
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such clear and convincing evidences do stare them in the face. I confess, the saints are mnch nnder a dark cloud here, through the prevalency of corruption, yea, are oft accounted as the filth of the world ; but when grace in any greater measure and its vigorous exercise doth shew itself, then there appeareth so much as will darken all the grandeur of this earth, and force men to see an excellency upon the saints beyond any others. They cannot altogether shun such a conviction.
1. What an evident difference is betwixt their way who walk with God, and that of the most polished moralist. Something is in the one, which doth wit- ness a more excellent spirit, a higher elevation, a sweet harmony and equability in their way, that they move in some higher sphere, act from other prin- ciples, with a respect to some greater interest than any thing here ; have more of a large heart to serve their generation, than those whose self-interest is seen to be the first and last in all their motions.
2. May it not also appear to on-lookers, that tender serious Christians, who live near God, do truly witness their resemblance and likeness to him, to whom they move, as to their great and last end; yea, do evidence a more true excellency of spirit 1 What a sweet calm and serenity they have within, while going through things that are most cross and vexing ? With what discernible quietness these can look upon most af- frighting revolutions in the world, as such, whose treasure and great interest is beyond hazard, though the earth were all turned to ashes ?
3. Is there not so much in the way and carriage of the saints, yea, such a majesty and authority that attend holiness, as to force respect and fear, even
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from these who most hate them ; yea, and doth force men to justify such in their conscience, whom they openly reproach and persecute \ "Whence it is that a serious tender Christian is oft a scarecrow and terror to the profane, when there is no outward cause for it, but that they are struck with the conviction of a more excellent spirit in these, carrying such a resemblance to the image of God, as forceth fear and subjection from that spirit which is in the world.
4. Doth not a Christian and holy walk, cause men shine as a light in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, yea, darken all their neighbours? And in the darkest night is it not seen, how grace shineth with the greatest lustre ? "What a sweet and odori- ferous scent doth this send through the country where they live, that may shew to all, how great a difference there is betwixt such, and those who are wallowing in this puddle of the earth.
5. Is it not obvious, what a lustre and beauty, yea, something more becoming our immortal soul, that is in the self-denial of Christians ; their bearing injuries, forgiving such as injure them, without reviling, than in that proud vindictive spirit that is in the world ? — that sure such walk by a more excellent rule, and move from a higher principle \
6. It may be also evident to the world, what an other spirit is in those, who do not bow with the spate of every time, nor yield to men because of their out- ward power, than in that spirit which is in the world; that while the one doth press men to save themselves on any terms, the other doth cause the Christian take up his conscience. And whence is that patience and resolution, by which the godly in times of suffering have overcome their persecutors ; their bold avowing
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of the truth before men, when hazards are most ob- vious ; and that advantage wherewith they appear above others in such a time \ Oh, doth it not clearly witness, that they are of another metal, who do thus abide the fire; yea, become more bright, by that wherewith others are consumed \
I would add that which the world cannot deny, how this spirit which is in the saints, bath prevailed over the greatest enticements of carnal gain and plea- sure, which to many may seem a wonder, as the Popish party did once say of Luther, Bestia 7icec non curat aurum, (This beast does not care for money). That which they did speak in eontempt, that it did prove him a beast, did in effect shew him therein, to be something above men; for that is a thing before which the spirit of the world could never stand.
Fifth, That the promised encouragement which is held forth to the people of God under trouble and suffering for his name, is a truth, and the Scripture herein verified, I am sure not only Christian experi- ence can witness, but may even to the observation of others, be demonstrated from very convincing grounds, that it is no fancy or delusion, (Psal. ix. 9, Isa. li. 12).
1. The very countenance and outward appearance of the godly in a suffering time, oft declare the peace and tranquillity of their soul, so as surely they must have joy and satisfaction, from whence the world doth not know, and have some other correspondence than with things visible. For it may be oft said, as of Daniel and his fellows, that under greatest pressures, and a very mean condition, they look as well, yea, with as much cheerfuhiess, as those who live on the king's allowance.
2. It can be no counterfeit, which should thus re-
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concile the Christian with a suffering lot ; for it is known how very searching affliction and trouble prove, which oft broach the vessel, and bring forth what hath formerly most closely lurked. And oh, doth not that holy confidence and freedom, which the saints have evidenced in confessing the truth before the princes of this world, and their most cruel adversaries ; yea, that cheerfulness which in most extreme pieces of suffering they oft do witness, even when they are resisting to the blood,— -doth not this speak forth something beyond the gallantry of a natural spirit, that far exceedeth the ordinary way of men, and is a thing the world cannot but wonder at ; and whether they will or not, see God's very immediate help and hand in the same, according to his word %
3. Is it not seen how the cheerful way of the godly under suffering, while there is no outward ground for the same, doth not only astonish, but is an exceed- ing torment to adversaries ; when they are forced to see, how all their endeavours (when their wrath and malice have been to the utmost put forth) have yet been in vain, either to turn them aside, or to ruin their encouragement ; — but that the most sharp suf- ferings of the godly, do still give them the sorest dash, help to strengthen others, justify God's way, and that tender respect he hath to his suffering people, even before all on-lookers 1
4. Is it not also manifest, that such whose natural disposition was known to be very fainting and timo- rous, yet when called to suffer for the truth, have without the least appearance of discouragement, shewed an invincible resolution, and not only their own fears, but the expectation of others hath a mar- vellous disappointment ? Oh, is there not there a
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visible fulfilling of the Scripture, that shaking reeds should be made to stand, where strongest cedars have bowed 1 Yea, some of very mean and ordinary parts have been so discernibly raised above themselves, as they were made to confound the wise and learned.
5. Must it not be confessed, that the zeal and re- solution of the saints did never more appear, than in times of greatest opposition ? — that at no time they have looked more like Christians, with more advan- tage, and with some peculiar beauty and lustre of the grace of God, than under suffering 1 — a thing which, as it eminently doth commend the gospel, hath also so far convinced their enemies, as in some measure it hath blunted their edge, and taken off their prejudice against the way of God, and followers thereof.
6. I may appeal the greatest atheists to their con- science, if any moral arguments (whatever influence they may have upon men's patient enduring) could ever produce such effects as rejoicing in tribulation ; the choosing affliction before sin and all its pleasures ; to triumph over persecutors, and to go with such a calm and cheerfulness to a scaffold ; to sing amidst a dark prison, yea, and to abound and have all things under greatest want 1 Oh, whence is this 1 Sure some- thing above nature must be here, that is stronger than moral reasons, by which the saints have thus over- come the world ; yea, is it not obvious to all who look on, how great a difference there is betwixt the pre- tended resolution of a natural spirit in death and suffering, and that joy and confidence of a Christian, which have then shewed in the composure and tran- quillity of their soul within ; the one being but a dark shadow, and the other drawn to the life \
Sixth, That there is a conscience within men, whose
E
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power, both as a judge and witness, doth answer that clear discovery the Scripture giveth thereof (Rom. ii. 9), is a thing obvious even to the world ; which they must needs confess, both from its visible effect on others, and the working thereof within themselves, that herein the word is verified. These things make it clear and undeniable,
1. That sure there is something within, which thus maketh men afraid to be alone with themselves ; yea, will cause them go abroad, and frame diversions to be out of its noise. Must it not be sad earnest, which hath so dreadful a sound in their ear ; doth haunt the wicked man whether he will or not ; wherewith he would gladly be at peace ? But amidst his greatest mirth and prosperity, this doth mingle his wine with gall and wormwood.
2. Is it not also sure, that men have oft an accuser within their breast, while they seem to brave it out before others, whose judgment and sentence they can by no means decline ; but after the committing of sin, yea, on the back of their sinful pleasures, doth follow the same with a bitter sting, and ring this dreadful knell in their ear, that in the end their way will be bitterness ? Oh, is not this an accusing conscience, which doth begin the torment of some before the time ?
3. What is it that should make men's guilt so legible oft in their countenance, even when they study most to conceal it ; and thus cause them give their tongue the lie, yea, bewray to bystanders, whether they will or not, some secret trouble and sore they have within? Doth it not clearly shew the power of the conscience, which hath such authority on men, that without violence or constraint from others, doth even force
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them to confess the truth, and supply the room of wit- nesses'?
4. Whence is it that some are so much disquieted for secret sins, which the eyes of others could not reach ; yea, that some gross sins, even the most pro- fligate amongst men have an horror at them, without respect to outward hazard 1 Doth it not shew the power of a natural conscience, that holdeth forth a greater party than the world, with which they have to do, to whom all things are manifest; and some greater witness than that of man %
5. How is it that even greatest men, whom the world could not reach, and in the midst of all probable advantages, have yet often most affrighting thoughts,, much terror, and disquieting rellections 1 Must it not be from within, which doth cause them fear an- other power than that of the world, and a judgment greater than of men ?
6. What must it be, which doth force men to justify God when his hand doth pursue them, and maketh them so easily find out sin in a time of their strait ? Why is the sense of guilt so very affrighting at death % Is it not the conscience, which doth pre- sage a future judgment, and extend its power to mat- ters of an everlasting concernment and duration ?
7. What should make men tremble at the word, and so much hate a searching ministry ? Is it not because the light doth torment them, though the word doth particularly name none ; but that there is something within, which maketh application of the truth, and doth plainly say, " Thou art the man ?;"
8. How do the worst of men oft justify those in secret, whom they openly have condemned ; that while they are even persecuting the saints for truth
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and holiness, yet, for these they give them and their way a favourable testimony, over the belly of all their prejudices 1 Yea, what is it that doth cause a secret fear and awful regard of such whom they hate ? Doth it not shew something within, whose judgment they are not able to resist 1
9. I must further ask, whence is that horror, and these dreadful cries and groans which wicked men oft have in their sickness, even such who were wont to sport at sin with a daring countenance \ Can the world get this past without some remark ? How in- tolerable a thing an evil conscience is, when once let loose, when in all ages such terrifying examples of this kind have been set up, for all that passed by to look on, such as Spira, Latomus, Olivarius, &c. And truly, I think it is a great want, there should not be a more particular record of such, which would give atheism so great a dash, yea, force men to confess the truth of a Deity, and of the written word.
This is a great truth, and a great demonstration of God (oh, blessed for ever !) his being, and of the truth of his word, that there is a conscience ; so strange a power, which every man hath within him and over him, that forceth the soul to a reflection on itself, even when it trembles at that sight, and with an awful sound tells the atheist that there is a God, when he seems to have no fear or conviction thereof. This is that great tormentor and troubler of the world, from which there is no retreat, though one should fly to the uttermost parts of the earth. This keeps a high court of justice under the authority of the great judge, and there, without respect to per- sons, does summon great and small ; does arrest, bring in witness, sentences, yea in some measure, puts
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that in execution.; and can make hell begin there, by an inexpressible anguish and horror. It is strange that such a thing, when it is so undeniable, does not stare the world in the face with more amazement. But I shall further offer some few evidences of the truth besides these already mentioned :
1. Could there be such a power in man, to dis- tinguish betwixt that good and evil which is within him, if there were not also some higher power above him, who hath thus formed him with such principles \ Yea, could there be a judging and witnessing within a man, if there were not a law and rule over him \ For it is sure, the conscience, in all its actings, hath respect to a higher judgment, and to a law, which even nature's light, though very dim, holds forth, but is express and clear in the Scripture, which is that great rule of the conscience.
2. Is it not very strange, to see such a power within a man, and yet against him ; that the grossest atheist is an enemy to it, yet cannot be without it, or get it shaken off ; and whilst it is known how strong a bias and inclination those have to evil more than good, they are yet forced to justify the one more than the other ? The drunkard cannot drown this conviction, nor the worldling bury it in the earth, where his treasure lies.
3. Though men may come some length to divert the conscience, and silence it, that it cannot exercise its function, without some special divine excitation, yet, is it not manifest, how then when once it is awakened, there is no possible withstanding ? Then, the stout-hearted cannot keep his ground to debate with it : yea, when they run, it follows with as swift a pace. No skill, no arguments, can defend from its force, no yiolence against such a power ; but whilst in
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the convoy of sin they overreach the witness of men, lo, this is continually at hand, to tell them, that He who is greater than the conscience does regard.
4. Can any thing be more real and certain, than these effects of the conscience ; I mean, that trouble and fear men have in sinning, and that peace and satis- faction that attends well-doing ? Do you know such a place in the earth, whither this power hath not some place to overawe men, even without any visible awe or hazard ; and can all mankind, through the whole world, in all ages, be in so strange a delusion, if there were no real ground for it 1
5. How convincingly does this witness, that there is a conscience, and the reality of it, that men are at so much work to bribe it, to frame diversions thereto, yea, to find out false grounds of peace, and some such gloss and commentary, as may reconcile the rule with their grossest actings and exorbitances % And why is this, but that in out-daring it, they find it stronger than they, and therefore must counterwork, by dark- ening that great light ; and find out some great show of reason to silence conscience, and promise peace to themselves, though they walk in the wickedness of their hearts.
6. Do not these strange extremes, which oft are obvious in men's condition, witness the reality of this power ? Oh, what a marvellous thing, to see one stu- pid this day, and desperate the next ; the conscience breaking up at that rate, that to be rid thereof, and its torment, the poor man would seek a shelter in the grave. Yea, is it not usual to see some wear out their time as beasts, yet at dying, seized with an inexpress- ible horror of God 1 Is not this something wakened, which was formerly asleep \
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7. Do not men see such desperate acts of wicked- ness in the world, such furious running over warnings and convictions, that may even convincingly shew some pursuit of the conscience, and that horrid way they take to be rid of it by revenge, to give it a further wound, and silence its noise by some violent deep stroke \
8. Are not these sudden unlooked for outbreakings of the conscience most remarkable ; how it takes some unawares, and grows upon them, the more they strive with it ? It is known also, what reflections men usu- ally have on themselves and their actions, in some present exigent and hazard ; yea, how they are thus affrighted, or in some measure quiet, as they are put to condemn or acquit themselves on that score. Now, is not this a convincing witness of the force of a na- tural conscience ? And likewise that usual recourse which the grossest of men will, in such an extremity, have to God by prayer, does both declare this, and that impression they have upon them of a Deity.
9. How marvellous a confidence and support does the conscience afford, where it is a friend, under the greatest misery and trouble from without ; for thus a man's spirit can sustain its infirmities \ But oh, when it is an adversary, nothing, nothing so insupportable. It will torment and tear one within, when there is none without dare provoke him ; yea, cause the op- pressor tremble, whilst it upholds the oppressed with confidence : it makes the one eat his bread with joy, when it embitters the pleasant morsels of others.
Seventh, That there is a reward for the righteous, and unquestionable gain in godliness, is a piece of the Scripture not only well known, and witnessed to the observing Christian, in his experience, but is also held
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forth in every age, as in great letters, to the view of the world, (Psal. lviii. 11 ; Psal. xcvii. 11 ; Isa. iii. 10). It is true, that the Christian's lot is oft followed with much trouble, and sometimes with loss of his life, which may seem to have a very dismal aspect ; for that great goodness, which the man who feareth God hath ensured to him, is much laid up in another world. Eut it is also sure, that there are such notour con- vincing proofs of this truth held forth, even to the observation of men, by which the Lord hath in every age confirmed the same, that I am sure the greatest atheist cannot answer even these :
1. That this is the very dictate of a natural con- science, not only that God is, but that he is a rewarder of such as serve him. Yea, none amongst men are so gross or brutish, who are not in some measure principled to distinguish betwixt good and evil, with some fear of a punishment to the one, and some hope of recompence to the other ; and are also forced to notice some more signal and convincing examples, which have been of that kind in their time.
2. Must we not say, yea, doth not the world see in every age, that history of Joseph, in some part acted over again % Sure there have not been wanting many such remarkable instances, wherein it might be easy to trace an upright and straight walk, through a very maze and labyrinth of changes, and to shew how that hath been their condition, and at last integrity hath brought them to land in a comfortable harbour ; yea, how often they have had a marvellous unlooked for outgate, contrary to all human appearance. This in- deed is no romance, but a most true history, which through all times and many examples, might be writ- ten of the word and providence, which should surpass
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the richest fancy that any fiction or romance did ever contain.
3. Must it not be convincing even to the worst of men, what a visible blessing doth oft follow the mean lot of some of the saints, which can make their little reach far, and cause them abound more in their po- verty, than others amidst their abundance1? — which I think the world cannot shun to observe, and gather, that there is sure something else than men's own care which doth their business : and how that ordinary proverb falleth not to the ground, that it is better to be happy than wise, when they see a secret judgment blow upon some men's estate, that no means can pre- vent ; and a secret blessing, which maketh things pros- per and take effect, accompany the Christian's little ; so as it may be easy for such who look abroad, to see where real contentment, with cheerfulness and giving of thanks, useth to dwell.
4. May not the world see there is a feast in a good conscience, how little soever they partake of the world ; that well-doing, and the practice of godliness, have some present reward in hand 1 Whereas, so re- markable a difference may be discerned between the countenance and the carriage of such, and of them who trust in falsehood ; that surely in a time of strait, those have another kind of security and confidence, when greatest natural spirits fail; yea, that those alone can enjoy themselves, have most calm and com- posed spirits, amidst the several changes of their life : that according to outward things, their peace doth not ebb nor flow, but they are at a seen advantage above others, in the day when men are sore outwitted with their straits ; so as it will be most easy then to see
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the good and advantage of religion, when the vanity of other advantages is most discernible.
5. Is it not also seen, that true honour doth truly wait on humility, and followeth such ; but it nieth from them who do most pursue it ; yea, that faith- fulness and an upright walk will gain credit even amongst their enemies, and respect before the world "?
6. That those who are faithful in their life, and diligent improvers of a small talent, have usually more added, with some discernible growth following the same ? And as the drying up of the parts of some, as a judgment on unfaithfulness, is oft obvious, so also such a blessing upon serious diligence, as hath made the last first, and even outrun such who were once before them. Yea, it is truly seen, how grace helpeth men's gifts, doth raise and sublimate their spirits, above that which once they were.
7. Doth not the Lord put some visible difference oft, betwixt the righteous and the wicked, in a time of common calamity ; that a strange out-gate with the concurrence of very marvellous providences, doth sometimes tryst such even to the conviction of on- lookers, which may tell the world, such have had an invisible hedge of preservation about them, and have been under some better care, than their own ?
8. What a clear witness do ungodly men oft bear to this truth at their death, or at some other strait ; so that their conscience hath forced them to justify the godly man's choice, and to say, that the lot of such is only most desirable ; yea, with much bitterness to lament their folly, that made not religion more their business, the good and advantage whereof is now no matter of debate. Sure the world will confess,
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how oft the confession and testimony of such men to this truth has reached their ear.
9. I shall but add that which is so very manifest, ho^w faithfulness and integrity transmit men's names with more honour, yea, make them have a sweeter sa- vour in their generation, than either riches or outward preferment ; yea, that there is a great difference be- twixt the memorial of the righteous and the wicked, even to the conviction of the world.
Eighth, That " verily there is a God who judgeth in the earth" (Psal. lviii. 11), who doth render unto men vengeance, and doth pursue the transgressor because of sin, is a truth which the world hath in every age, by many convincing instances, held forth to them, where they may see the Scriptures clearly verified.
I have a little touched this in the second argument, how the accomplishing of Scripture-threatenings is witnessed to the observation of the church, and to those who are wise to discern the times wherein they live. I shall here point at this truth, as it is in the providence of God written in such great letters, as are obvious to the view of the world, so as most com- mon on-lookers cannot pass this without a remark. It is true, much may be laid over to that great gene- ral assize of the last judgment, that day of retribution; yea, sometimes we see the most wicked and vile go in peace to the grave. The sovereignty of God doth also appear very observably in the different measure and kind of punishment ; and it is too evident, how prone men are to look more to the interest that second causes have in such a thing, than to a divine hand. But this is also sure, that the Lord is known on the earth by the judgment which he executeth ; and in
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every age doth set up such convincing examples before men, that the greatest atheists may see, yea, oft their conscience must break the goal, restrain it as they will, and force this acknowledgment, that such judg- ments can be no casual thing, while something of a power higher than man, and a clear verifying of the word, is so discernible therein.
Now, to demonstrate this truth, I would offer some things, which may shew how very near this cometh to the observation of men, so as none can be a stranger thereto, or want conviction of this piece of the truth of God, except they willingly shut their eyes, while it is clear,
1. That the very heathens who never knew the Scripture, nor a written law, have yet so much of a natural conscience, that not only they can put some difference between virtue and vice, but even in some measure can discern God's putting some difference betwixt the same. How flagitious crimes used to be punished by a divine hand, we may say, time could never yet wear out the observation of this truth through the world ; and though many things may be received and credited, which not having a sure ground, do quickly vanish, it being truth's privilege still to out-live falsehood, yet it is sure, how in the darkest parts of the earth this has been still noticed with a remark, and transmitted from one age to another. Yea, the records of the nations, even by heathen writers, shew what remarkable punishment hath fol- lowed cruel oppression, covenant breaking, and such other gross sins against the second table ; yea, how these have been the usual forerunners of great strokes on kingdoms and families.
2. Doth not the world see, that in these remark-
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able judgments which have come on a nation and people, there is something higher than instruments or second causes, which may be very evident in bringing the same about ; so that all who go by must confess, such is no casual tryst, nor doth arise out of the dust, but that surely a divine hand is there 1 And truly, though some desolating strokes are very terrible in themselves, and blood and ruins should be no matter of pleasure, yet whereas thereby that stately sound is heard, even his voice whomaketh the earth to tremble, and God is made known to the sons of men, we should not only with fear, but even some holy congratulation consider his work. Now, to clear what a convincing witness these are to this truth, I shall point at some very obvious remarks, which I am sure the world cannot contradict, of the Lord's own immediate hand in such judgments : 1. That strange concurrence and tryst of providence which useth to appear when God is against a people : how all things will then conspire, as a fatal conjunction, to work their woe and ruin, that men may see, surely this is from the Lord, who is wonderful in counsel, and from a hand against which there is no striving. 2. How such remarkable strokes are seen to tryst with some great and remarkable height of sin in such a nation and people, so that it is easy then for all on-lookers to confess the righteous- ness of God therein. 3. When judgment is coming on a land, it may appear how instruments are raised, and in a more than ordinary way acted with all ad- vantages for such a piece of service. 4. There is a visible blasting then both of counsel and strength, and those means which otherwise looked most pro- bable, how remarkably such are confounded, even in the use of their ordinary abilities, their heart and
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usual courage taken from them, while the Lord is on a work of judgment. 5. That astonishing success which is usually seen to follow those whom the Lord sendeth forth to execute his judgment : how then they move swiftly and with vigour ; they do not stumble or weary ; it is neither rivers, nor walled cities can stand in their way ; mountains are made valleys, to shew it is the Lord, whose hand in that day is strong upon them, to strengthen their loins, and make the sword and axe sharp for his service. 6. Amidst these various strokes which come on a land, can men pass that of the pestilence without some special note, where God's immediate hand, something supernatural above ordinary or natural causes may be clearly seen, both in its strange progress in spreading, which like a lightning doth oft go through cities and countries in a small time 1 Do not these tell aloud to the world, that they come not unsent, and without some special commission ; and that there is no striving against them, nor are ordinary means effectual in some such extraordinary plagues, until He who brought it on, do also by his own hand take it off \
3. It is very obvious even to the world, that clear resemblance, which is oft betwixt sin and the stroke; how holy justice doth keep a proportion, and doth shape out the judgment so exactly both measure and kind, that it may be easy to see the stroke pointing as with an hand to the cause, by its discernible like- ness ; and both at the righteous judgment of God, which thus measured out to men, as they have dealt with others. We see how the Lord trysted Agag and Adonibezek ; how Sodom's burning lust was punished with fire from heaven ; yea, what even David had measured out for his murder and adultery, " the sword
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shall not depart from his house ;" and for the other, his wives by his own son abused. And truly, every age's observation can witness this truth from many convincing examples, that there is a God who judgeth in the earth, it being oft seen if men would seriously observe, 1. How an universal overspreading of sin in a land, hath usually some national and universal stroke following. 2. That blood waiteth on bloody men, and suffereth them not oft to live out half their days ; one oppressor punished by another ; the unmerciful man paid home in his own coin, by such as will shew as little mercy to him or his. 3. How the proud and insolent who do most hunt after outward glory, are usually trysted with some humbling abasing stroke : He poureth contempt on princes, and such who will not honour God, shall not brook that honour they seek from men. 4. That such who have been most given up to uncleanness, are oft seen not to increase as to their posterity, but their issue observably made to fail; yea, by a divine hand rooted out : sure, many such signal examples might be instanced. 5. How such who have choosed sin to shun trouble and suffering, have in their sinful way got a large measure thereof; as that man who in Queen Mary's time said, he could not burn for the truth, and therefore forsook it, by an unseen hand had both himself and his house in one night burnt. 6. That treacherous and deceitful men are thus dealt with by others, yea, children who have been undutiful to parents, have from their's met with the same recompence. 7. That whilst men, to make a purchase, have even denied themselves the necessary use of outward things, are oft seen to leave their estate to such, who do quickly waste and scatter the same ; and thus, the sinful parsimony of parents is punished
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with the prodigality of such who succeed them. 8. That the frequent use of some dreadful imprecations, is oft punished by the Lord with a suitable stroke, to the conviction both of themselves and on-lookers. 9. How such as have joined together, and united themselves against the truth, have been visibly broken as to their own private interest. And truly we must say, there is oft such a tryst of very convincing circumstances, in some acts of the judgment of God, with such a re- semblance to the sin ; yea, judgment sometimes pur- suing men in the very place where the sin hath been acted, that it may be easy for all who go by to say, There is indeed a God which judgeth in the earth.
4. Doth it not appear, how very convincing and ob- vious this truth is even to the world, from these ordi- nary remarks and proverbial sayings which we find in all ages, and in every part of the earth, even the most rude and ignorant, have had of the judgment of God % For truly, what else are these, but an express witness, how universally this truth is known and re- ceived by men ; how much the world is convinced thereof, through a long tract of observation from the fathers to the children ; yea, thence they have had a divinity of their own drawn out thereof, how such sins do not use to pass without some notour punishment.
Now, I would but name some few of these remarks that have been most usual in all times : 1. How some families have not thriven, but a secret judgment hath been discernible thereon, since they had hand in some gross acts of wickedness, such as bloodshed, their former prosperity from such a day visibly declining. 2. How that an evil purchase useth not to be of long continuance, but their estate oft in a very strange and insensible way made to evanish, which their children,
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though frugal, can by no means keep up : and the cause thereof men do easily point at ; — it was pur- chased by fraud, transmitted with a curse cleaving thereto, and so there was no warding off the judgment of God. 3. Such who do not much consider God's controversy, yet are oft forced to remark, that since some have meddled or matched with such an house, they have sadly smarted thereby, something of a curse even following the race and posterity of some. 4. How sacrilegious meddling with that which hath been for a pious and public use, hath caused a visible waste and consumption in their own estate. 5. That men's asking counsel from the devil, and turning to that airt for their help, doth usually resolve in a sad and tragic close ; and truly this, many in the shutting up of their life have been forced to confess. 6. That falsehood doth not use to keep its feet, nor a wicked way long prosper, whatever it seem to the first view ; yea, I may add, as one of the world's remarks, which they cannot well shun, that which seemeth was an or- dinary saying in the time of Esther, that it is not safe troubling the church, or for men to state themselves in opposition to that party. And I dare not question but this shall be yet as convincing and obvious to the world, as it hath been in any former ages.
5. Is not the appearance of a divine hand oft very obvious to the world in the discovery of sin, and bring- ing to light some gross acts of wickedness, even in an extraordinary way; while it is seen, 1. By what strange unexpected means these have been brought forth ; such an astonishing tryst and concurrence of things therein, as hath forced not only on-lookers to some special re- mark, but hath even struck the guilty party through the heart with wonder and conviction of the same.
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2. How the hand of justice pursuing men for some notour and known crime, doth oft bring to light some that have been most secret, which they thought the world could never reach ; yea, it may be frequently seen, while men have been in one sin found out, it hath also brought forth the discovery of some other, and forced them to confess, that it was a righteous judg- ment pursuing them for the same. It is a thing also Known, yea, by many undeniable instances witnessed, that marvellous discovery of concealed murder, by the bleeding of the body upon the touch of the mur- derer. I confess, it should be hard to assert the lawful and warrantable practice of such an appeal to so ex- traordinary and stupendous a sign from the Lord, where Scripture goeth not clearly before us ; but on the other hand, such a thing so surely tried for such an end, and in the case where all ordinary means of discovery have been wanting, I think calleth us to a serious remark thereof, while it so visibly seemeth to witness His hand, who doth make inquisition for blood. 6. Is not the dreadful consternation, these tor- menting fears which men after some gross acts of wickedness do bewray, a very obvious witness to this truth, that there is a God who judgeth on the earth, into whose hands it is a terrible thing to fall, and sheweth how great a punishment wickedness is to it- self] Truly, if atheists turn not brutish and stupid, they must notice this, and confess a thing which doth so oft reach their ears, what have been the horrid cries of many dying men who have most sported with sin in their life ; that may tell bystanders, there is a judge who can stretch forth his hand on the soul and conscience, whereto no rack or outward torments are any way comparable.
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7. I would further add, these extraordinary signs and prodigies, which do usually go before some stroke and judgment on a land, do they not clearly point at a divine hand in the same1? For, as these are a solemn forewarning from heaven, to give men an alarm before remarkable changes, the truth whereof the world can- not deny ; so we must say, they are a convincing tes- timony, that these judgments are no casual things : which the atheist cannot answer, it being so clear, 1. That such signs and prodigies have been in every age visible to the world's experience, and the gravest histories both of ancient and latter times, do fully witness. 2. That such things should also be previ- ous to great revolutions in the world, we know the Scripture is most express (Joel ii. 30 ; Luke xxi. 11) ; and as we should guard against any superstitious re- spect, we should also beware of stupid atheistical in- advertency at these strange works of the Lord, which call both for fear and observation. 3. That such have been usually previous to great calamities and judgments on a people, is a thing that all ages must witness, even those who have been the most cautious and discerning in their time, who could not shun this as a remark. Herodotus doth set that down as a thing most sure in his sixth book, Cum Deus puniturus est gentem, urbem, prodigiis id solet significare, (When God is about to punish a nation or a city, he is wont to announce it by prodigies) ; and Lucan could tell what went before the lloman civil wars — Superi- que minaces prodigiis terras implement (The gods filled the boasting land with prodigies). Yea, it can hardly be instanced any great change or revolution in the earth, which hath not had some such extra- ordinary herald going before. 4. Can the world deny
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how sometimes these prodigious signs have been shaped out, to point at the very nature of the stroke then imminent, by a strange resemblance to the same; such as a flaming sword in the air, the appearance of armies fighting, even sometimes upon the earth, to the view of many most sober and judicious on-lookers; also showers of blood, the noise of drums, and such like, which are known usually to go before war and com- motions \
Ninth, That there are evil spirits (Eph. vi. 12 ; E-ev. xx. 2, 3), and a diabolical power, such as the Scrip- ture hath held forth, whose constant work is the ruin and undoing of man, is a truth, not only witnessed from that experience Christians have of their assaults, but is undeniable by the world and greatest atheists, .except they deny the discovery of sense as well as reason.
I confess, it may cause fear and astonishment to think on this, that spirits so knowing, and once ori- ginally excellent, have fallen thus into such a height of indignation against infinite goodness, that it is now their only aim and pleasure to dishonour God, and destroy his image in man. It should indeed cause us fear Him that spared not the angels who sinned. But the truth itself is sure, that such a party is at this day encompassing the earth, and trafficking up and down there ; to prove which by arguments, were to light a candle, to let men see that it is day : while it is known, what ordinary familiar converse many have therewith ; and alas ! too easy to discern that power, which the prince of this world hath upon the children of disobedience. How' obvious are the marks of his conquest almost everywhere ! thousands lying in his chains. How far do we see many transformed, even
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to the very image of the deyil, which in these des- perate prodigious acts of wickedness that are oft in the world may appear ; — such whereat we should think human nature though corrupt could not but tremble, yea, look on with horror ! How many in all ages have even been in an express covenant with them ! And is not there a great part of the earth, where the devil is visibly and audibly known, where he hath a kind of neighbourhood with men ? But there being no need for such a demonstration, I only here aim to hold forth what a concerning truth this is, and of great conse- quence if seriously considered; yea, how both the Scripture and Christian religion are hereby evidently confirmed, since these things must necessarily follow,
1. That in this the Scripture is truly fulfilled, which doth witness what these spirits are ; — adversaries to man, in their nature and inclination desperately evil, whose actings in the earth have a visible tendency to men's hurt and ruin, yea, their pretended favours al- ways directed to that end ; whence we see such a na- tural in-bred horror which is in man against them.
2. That it is no common thing which they so much pursue ; something more precious than the body, for which so great and cruel an adversary is in continual labour; for their actings have no such tendency to ruin men's estate in the world. No, it is most evident, this is the soul, the immortal soul ; — to undo them in that great interest, which is the mark whereat they level, that poor man might be sharer of that misery under which they are included.
3. Is it not an undeniable consequence of this truth, that there must be an invisible world, that hath in- habitants of another kind than such as are here 1 — that sure there is some being above man, yea, a real
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correspondence betwixt men and spirits ? And should not man, thus placed in a middle estate betwixt the angels and the beasts here below, partaking in his body with the one, but in his reasonable soul with the other, thence raise himself to thoughts of some more excellent condition, for which he is framed, than a sensual life ; and that surely the soul hath an interest in another world which he should most look after]
4. Must not this also be sure, that there is an in- visible guard, and these desperate spirits are under re- straint by a power stronger than they, which can bound their malice'? For this may be certain, that these who have so great enmity to man, are so near, and have such advantages over us, could not keep at such a distance, but that they are kept in chains by a higher power.
5. How is it, that now, by the gospel, and within this precinct of the church, Satan's powers are so much restrained in respect of former times, while it is known what a familiar converse they had with men, did even haunt their houses, and were so public in their appearance under such names of Fairies and Brownies, which since the breaking up of the light of the gospel hath not been ; — yea, hath not the devil to this day an open throne and dominion in these parts of the earth where Christ is not worshipped \ It is also known how the oracles of old did cease, and that public worship which the world for many ages had given them, with the very time of Christ's appearance, and breaking up of the gospel; these night-beasts get- ting to their dens, when once the day was broke up. Plutarch and other heathen writers are witness to this.
6. Whence is it, that within the church where
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Satan is most restrained, yet there he doth more stir, than in all the world besides X Doth it not shew, that that is the party with which he is at war \ Hence doth he more rage, the more clear the light shineth. Yea, is there not seen something, besides men's natural enmity at the truth, even a fury and violence, wherewith some are visibly driven in their actings with such an unsatiable cruelty against the followers of Christ, without the least shadow of pro- vocation, as holds forth a vive resemblance of the devil, and some violent pressure and incitement from that airt ?
7. Is it not sure that there is such a party, by this, that he is an adversary to God and holiness, for which he doth so impetuously tempt and press men to the outward acts of sin ; yea, that there is a spirit of blasphemy which so visibly rageth in the world, and actuates men to war against heaven with their tongues, by cursing and blasphemous oaths, which hath no carnal pleasure or gain ; but yet they cannot forbear, from a violent incitement, which may be seen sway- ing to the same ?
8. "Whence is it, which is so very known and no- tour, that these horrid wretches who gave themselves to the devil, cannot enter into any formal engage- ment, without renouncing Christ and their baptism ? Doth it not shew that direct opposition he stands in to Christ, yea, to the very name and shadow of Chris- tianity %
9. Whence is it, that even the grossest atheists upon any appearance of the devil, or apprehension from that airt, will not then make scorn of prayer, but turn in earnest to that, which at other times they mocked \ Oh, doth it not shew that men's atheism
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is their judgment ; that not only there is a dreadful horror and fear, which by nature men have of these evil spirits, but some in-bred sense also, and impres- sion of a deity, which doth bewray itself whether they will or not, in a pressing strait and extremity \
Tenth, That there is such an enmity betwixt the seed of the woman and the serpent, as the Scripture hath held forth, is very manifest ; a truth wherein the world may see the Scripture clearly verified, (Gal. iv. 29).
It is truly strange, that this putteth not men to more serious thoughts, to pursue such a thing to its true rise, what should cause such a violent and un- reasonable contrariety against the way and followers of God. For here, upon grave reflections, they must needs see that their way in this is a convincing wit- ness to the truth of the Scripture, which might put them into some other humour, yea, help to turn this poison into an antidote against itself. But this is sure and undeniable, the discovery whereof cannot but stare the greatest atheist in the face, from these con- vincing evidences :
1. That it is seen, no private quarrel which ever was among men, hath been with such vigour and malice pursued, as this upon the account of religion, which hath still put the world more in a flame than any private interest ; yea, it is very manifest, how men are carried with the spate of their own natural inclination, to oppose the church and people of God.
2. That this feud and enmity could never betaken up through all the successions of time ; a strife which is not late begun, to be seen only in one age, betwixt the children of the bond-woman and of the free. No, the most sage and wise amongst men, the greatest
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peace-makers, could yet never fall on a way to re- concile these two parties, but the children have still served themselves heirs to the quarrel and hatred of their fathers against the church.
3. Is it not seen, that those who are more civil, and can hold a little up with the form of religion, yet will break forth in greatest rage against the power thereof when once it begins to appear \ It is indeed here, that in-bred contrariety which is in men against holi- ness doth bewray itself, even in those who are other- wise noted for. a calm and peaceable disposition, till once they begin to be scorched with its heat.
4. "What strong natural antipathy is this, which causeth men pursue with so much bitterness those from whom they never had any personal injury 1 Sure their conscience must oft tell, that they have no reason; or any other provocation, than what is from the appearance of the image of God in such. But this is their nature and disposition ; an enmity which they can no more help, than they can change their nature, or the leopard can change its spots.
5. From what a strong inclination and inward principle doth the world thus act in its opposition to the church and followers of God ; whilst it is clear, though these were never so quiet and peaceable, yet their enemies are still restless, and cannot sleep beside them?
6. It is seen how this doth separate betwixt nearest friends and relations, and alienate such who have sometimes been most dear to each other. No bond in nature is so strait which it will not break ; it doth oft set the husband against the wife, and the parents against the children : yea, when religion once breaks
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up in a corner of a land or a family, doth it not then make a visible jar, and put all in a flame ?
7. It is clear, that when once grace appeareth in men, they are as a sign and wonder to a profane ge- neration. The world doth then sensibly change her countenance, and looketh like a stepmother. While on the other hand it is clear, that professors turning loose, and running to that excess of riot with others, will cause their old adversaries warm towards them, and which, alas ! proveth the surest way to gain men's friendship, while the world thinks they are their own, when once they turn profane.
Eleventh, That the creature is made subject to vanity because of sin, which not only the wisest of men, but the Spirit doth witness. That things here beneath the sun are indeed vanity and vexation of spirit (Rom. viii. 20 ; Eccl. ii. 11), is a piece of the Scripture in such great letters, written forth to the view of men, that none can be strangers thereto.
It is true, the cause and solid remedy of this so general a complaint, is only reached by the godly man, who knoweth how to read the vanity of the creature as a piece of the fulfilling of the word, and doth seriously consider things as they are, and not as they appear. But it is also sure, that in every age, through the various changes of man's life, this is so clearly witnessed, that the most gross and brutish cannot shift the conviction thereof, but in one of these two times have been forced to a public acknowledging of the same ; at death, when they are leaving the world ; or in a day of strait, when the world is leaving them. Now, to demonstrate this, I shall here but offer these few queries :
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1. Have not the greatest instances of the glory of the world, been usually the greatest examples of its vanity and change 1 How few hath ambition raised, but it hath also ruined, yea, given the sorest fall to those it had lifted most high ? What sudden changes do at- tend great men and high places, which those who sit low do escape \ Sure, if the tragedies of princes, and such who in their condition have been raised above others, were put by themselves in record, it should make a great volume, and shew how their glory and prosperous estate did only make their fall the more observable.
2. Is it not obvious, what a frail dying disposition is in all worldly things, that even the greatest king- doms and politic bodies, to maintain which, neither policy nor strength was wanting, yet, like natural bo- dies of men, had their inevitable periods ; their youth and flourishing times, their declining and old age, and at last even brought to their grave \ Hath not the glory of greatest empires and monarchies sunk in the dust 1 yea, scarce a heap of stones is left this day, to tell us where once famous cities have stood. Nunc seges est ubi Troja fuit, (There is now a corn-field where Troy stood). The ruins whereof, and such ex- cellent pieces of the world, do clearly shew that certain dissolution of the whole fabric at last.
3. What a small distance we may see betwixt ex- tremities in outward things ; even greatest plenty and poverty, the highest place and a low condition ; so that the morning hath seen some happy and flourishing in the world, whom the evening hath seen miserable ; and in a short time, such who have been objects of envy and admiration, made the objects of men's contempt and pity ; — yea, have so suddenly disappeared, have sunk
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into so little bounds, that men have been put narrowly to consider them, and with admiration ask, Are these they who were once a terror in the land of the living, and their place hath not been found ; who a few days before seemed to place themselves alone in the midst of the earth 1
4. What else is it but the very present moment of time, that maketh such a difference betwixt the rich and poor, since as to what is past, and the bygone time, men's happiness and misery may be reckoned as though it had never been 1 Nam quicquid retro est mors tenet, (For death possesses whatever is past) ; and who but a fool would boast of that which is to come, a thing so uncertain ? This only is sure, that a few days will make all conditions equal, when the bones of the rich, and the dust of the greatest princes, will not be discernible from these of the poor man.
5. Is there anything so pleasant, which hath not a worm at the root thereof; a moth, which naturally breeds in the most satisfying enjoyments, that quickly eats out the heart thereof, and blasts their hope be- fore the harvest 1 How oft is greatest longing in the pursuit of things, turned to loathing and weariness when obtained, because it is not the nature of the thing, so much as an humour, and the novelty there- of, that maketh them pleasant ? Hence many sensual men have turned monastic, and greatest monarchs become melancholy. Yea, how usual is it for many, to survive their pleasures, and bury their joy and de- lights in the world, even before themselves, while no^ thing remains of all their former enjoyments, but some sad sighs and groans, with a heavy farewell ?
6. Is it not found, that riches and abundance of the earth load more than they fill, and men's wealth
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only further heightens their wants 1 How very poor are some amidst their fulness, more than those who earn their bread with sore labour, whom the world doth wholly possess, while they do not at all possess it, neither is it in their power to make use of that they have? Yea, are they not sick, and die in princes' courts, as well as in the meanest cottage; and the complaints of the great and rich, usually more than these of the poor ? Sure it is known, that the great man doth oftener want a stomach and rest, than the poor want meat and a bed to lie in.
7. In what an endless circle do voluptuous men move from one thing to another, in a perpetual search after other enjoyments to satisfy their spirits 1 "Which sheweth what a great want is there, which still calls for variety of things, and some fresh supply to take off the weariness of one pleasure by another, else the delight they have therein would quickly languish and wear out. Yea, is it not still found, that the best of outward things are not on a near approach what they seemed to be at a distance ; the eye not satisfied with seeing, nor the ear with hearing ; but the more they are pressed, the less they yield 1 Neither do they en- joy such things with most satisfaction, who take a full draught ; so that sometime men's attaining their de- sire, hath caused their delight and pleasure in these things cease.
8. It is also clear, that outward things'are incident to the world, without making them the better ; and separable from the best, without making them the worse. And what can silver or gold suit an immortal soul, or answer such a capacity, more than virtue and godliness could answer to fill an empty chest, or glass bottle \
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9. How rare is it for men to get their lot in the world brought up to their desire ; but are still at some jar with their present condition, so that oft there needs no more to make men discontented but the thought of some lot, which they apprehend more satisfying than their own, the want whereof turns them more disquiet than all their enjoyments are pleasing ? Yea, it is also evident, that many men's labour and disquiet increase with their wealth, and turn the flame more violent, and that even in the condition of the poor, there is something the great man is made to envy ; while the poor may find cause ofttimes to pity and compassionate some great men in the midst of their prosperous estate.
10. What is the enjoying of the best of the earth, but its very passing away, while it perisheth in the present use 1 And what ? — are not men going through the world, and leaving it behind them in the midst of their most satisfying enjoyments ? Is not the excel- lency of most outward things only according to opinion, or the institution of men, while they have but small intrinsic worth from their own quality \ In some parts of the earth whiteness is reckoned deformity, and the blackest colour the greatest beauty, and therefore they paint the devil white. What a poor smoke is swelling titles of honour if soberly weighed, while the proud man's happiness doth some way hang upon the poor who go by, which they must beg from others with the greatest artifice \ And would the choicest jewels, or a bag of gold laid upon the heart of a dying man, any way quiet his spirit or ease his pain ? Surely this is vanity.
11. Is it not oft seen amidst the various changes of the earth, princes and great men walking on foot, and
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servants riding on horseback ; the children oft put to ask an alms from such who have served their fathers ; fools loaded with wealth and great stiles, while men of the choicest spirits are buried under contempt and poverty \ Yea, do we not see how quickly men are cried up and down in the world ; that which in one age is raised, is oft razed in another 1 — yea, many at much labour to undo that which others have done with greatest care and expense 1 "What a sore vanity is this !
12. Will not the want of a very small thing oft embitter the pleasantest lot, and turn it into worm- wood and gall ? The smallest touch of pain, the gra- vel, or toothache, yea, even some melancholy thought, will make men disrelish all their present enjoyments. What torment a small ruffle and affront oft prove to the proud man, even in the midst of his glory % Is it not also found, how carnal mirth and joy, men wallow- ing in the delights of the world, have still in the close a bitter sting and harsh way-gate, which, as the shadow attends the body, is the native and inseparable conse- quent thereof. And surely that may be easy to discern, that there is no condition which can want a cross, or some mixture of discontent, even when there is least seen cause.
I would add, which cannot want a remark in every time, that while men seem to be at the top, and farthest period of their thoughts and projects ; have things according to their desire brought to some happy close, they are oft then upon some turn and change in their condition, either by death, or some very sad cross; and even in that day their thoughts have perished. Truly, such as are wise observers of the world, and of the course of things therein, may oft see how usual
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a tryst this is, that when there is too bright a sun- blink in outward prosperity, if great sobriety and mo- deration do not accompany the same, it is an ominous and fatal presage of a storm, and ad summam quicquid venit, ad exitum prope est, (Whatever comes to the height, is near its end).
Twelfth, There is this truth, which hath in all ages been clearly witnessed, eyen to the conviction of the world, that " the end of the upright man is peace ;" and integrity, whatever rub it may seem to have by the way, yet hath a sweet and comfortable close, (Psal. xxxvii. 37.)
This is an undeniable truth, not only because the saints are then entering into perfect peace, but it is also clear, that however the godly man may have very sharp assaults in the close of his days, and some who have shined very bright do set in a dark cloud, their evening full of sorrow and bitterness, yea, their re- flection on some sad slip which they have made by the way bearing them company even to the grave ; yet this truth is still verified, yea, may be discernible to the conviction of bystanders, that integrity and an upright walk have much peace in the end, and landmen in a comfortable harbour. Concerning which I can ap- peal to the world, and the most ordinary on-lookers, if this hath, not been oft very convincing and discernible to them, from many instances of the Lord's usual way with those who have been faithful in their gene- ration, at their death, from that testimony which they have then given to this % yea, from most visible signs and evidences hereof even upon their countenance and carriage, whilst it is seen,
1. How great an advantage such use to have above others when death approacheth, so that it hath not
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been Balaam's wish alone, to die the death of the righteous, and to have his latter end like theirs ; but the worst of men are still forced to witness their re- spect to the lot of a dying Christian, and would wish a share thereof when it comes to their turn. Anent which I may ask the greatest mockers at religion, and at the life of a godly man, if they can possibly shun this conviction, that surely such are of the best estate, and at the greatest advantage hi their end.
2. This I am sure cannot be hid from the world, what abundant peace the saints do then testify in their choice ; what a present unspeakable complacency they have with this, that they valued Christ above all other advantages, did choose affliction rather than sin ; and now, while they are turning their face to the wall, find the witness of a good conscience, and of God's approbation, so sweet a feast, that their joy and peace on this account they cannot smother or keep in, but declare to all who stand by what they find. And truly, it hath been oft seen, how the inward joy which some of these have had, hath exceeded their outward pain, been more sensible to them than their sickness ; yea, have been in leaving the world, much more cheer- ful than those whom they left behind.
3. It is also known, and may be very obvious to bystanders, how with a sweet composure and recum- bency of soul, such have laid themselves upon the pro- mise in that hour, while they were grappling with the King of Terrors; their spirit then quiet and calm, having taken the truth and testimony of God for their shield and buckler ; which may tell the world what an other kind of security and confidence those have beyond others ; yea, that surely the ground on which this confidence is founded, must be a thing that is able
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to bear out the greatest storm and assault, and is something above nature.
4. Is it not clear, that even an untimely and violent death could not let or frustrate that peace, which in- tegrity causeth in the close % For innumerable in- stances can witness, what marvellous joy and satisfac- tion the saints have shewed at a stake, and upon a scaffold; and thence have had more cheerful going out of time, than the rich man stretched upon his soft bed, or the greatest monarch, amidst all outward ad- vantages. Sure we must say, that sweet refreshing close of the upright man, hath never been more visi- ble, and written in greater letters, than in such a case.
5. What very sad conflicts have some of the saints had in their life ; yea, even upon the setting of the sun, have been put to cry out through sore perplexing fears and doubts, wherewith they have been assaulted, who have at last had this turned into a song ; and such a marvellous change in their case, as hath not been more sensible to themselves, than discernible to all on-lookers, like a sudden calm and sunshine, after some dark storm. I must here ask the atheist, and such as reckon godliness but a fancy, whence should so strange, so sudden, and great alteration proceed, that those who a little before were under such horror, could have no rest, no arguments could do their turn, —do thus witness the abundant peace of their souls ; yea, which is oft seen, that fervent desire wherewith some of the saints are taken away, the very lustre of heaven being upon their countenance 1 How marvel- lous and piercing are their words ; which may clearly tell that now they feel, they see, and have got some glance of that, which on-lookers cannot reach, though they cannot deny an acknowledgment of this.
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6. Must not the world grant, yea, the greatest ene- mies to godliness allow this charity, that sure, this peace and joy which such have witnessed at death can be no counterfeit ; that there is no temptation could thus bias them to deceive others and themselves, in a matter of such high concernment, and at a time when it is expected, the grossest of men would speak truth I — yea, that this doth appear, while men can- not in the least charge the dying Christian with any distemper in his judgment, but while they have been most composed, stayed and present in mind, and as to other things of their concernment, most deliberate and sober ; even then they have borne this witness.
Since that peace and joy which integrity hath in the close of the day, when the saints are dying, is un- deniable, even to the conviction of the world, I would add something anent that great truth, the Immortality of the Soul and its subsisting after death, to which this joy, when the Christian is finishing his course, hath a special respect ; and is a truth, wherein the Scripture's accomplishment, and the certainty of that blessed re- cord, maybe convincingly witnessed, and demonstrated to the world ; for it is thus, (I mean by the light of the Scripture) that life and immortality is brought to light, and made known to the sons of men. I know this seems so common and uncontro verted a thing, an after-being of the soul, and its eternal subsistence, that to say more than the naming of it, may be looked on as impertinent. But oh ! how unknown a truth is it ; of which there needs no more to shew the little so- lid persuasion men have, but that it is so usually past with so few, and these, very common thoughts. It is not indeed much questioned, not because it is believed, and men are sure thereof, but because thev are not
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in earnest about such a thing ; it concerns the world to keep a distance from a through knowing of that, which would be their torment to know ; and there is cause for this sad regret within the church, that the most great and fundamental truths wherein our com- fort is most concerned, are usually least studied. But oh, should it not put us to other thoughts, if we could have a serious look of this % It may truly be said, the better part is so buried in the worst part, that until men are dying, few lay this to heart, that their souls must live for ever ; yea, must once part fellowship with the body, and enter in another world, and an unknown state, until the resurrection. What I in- tend here, is only a short touch at this great truth, as it is a convincing witness to the Scripture and the accomplishment thereof ; anent which I would offer these three to be considered: 1. How express and clear a testimony the Scripture gives to this. 2. On what plain and undeniable grounds of reason this truth is demonstrable to the world. 3. How great a thing it is to believe, and be assuredly persuaded thereof ; for it seems men rather dream, than have their judg- ments seriously exercised, or are in earnest about such a thing.
As to the first, it is undeniable, that not only the Scripture holds this forth, but that there only men have a clear and right discovery of it. It is indeed known, what glances the world hath had of this ; yea, what hath been written thereon, by some whose sole guide was the light of nature in this search. But it is no less evident, how very dark and uncer- tain these have been. They could not shift some conviction thereof; but it was through a dark cloud, and as some pleasant dream they looked thereon.
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Because they did not know its rise and original, and what the end was to which in its actings it ought to be directed, they knew not what its after- condition could truly mean : thence with such wavering and uncertainty do they express their thoughts. I do not here mean the schools of Epicurus only, to whom the soul was but a complexion of atoms ; but ye see how perplexed and uncertain both Aristotle and others of these famous ancients have shewed them- selves anent this ; which speaks out more some per- plexed and disordered notion which they could not ward off, than any clear and certain discovery, which they had on solid grounds thereof ; for they knew not the Scripture, where its original, whence it is, and whither it must return, are so clearly held forth. (Eccl. xii. 7, and you may further see, Heb. xii. 9, Gen. ii. 7 ; Luke xvi. 22, 23 ; 1 Pet. iii. 9).
2. This grave testimony which the Scripture of God does bear to such a truth, may be also held forth to the world from such a clear and rational demon- stration; that the most brutish of men can hardly sink so far into the condition of a beast, to deny they have a never dying soul, which will not go to the dust, or inherit corruption with the body. I should be loath to borrow so much of your time, by any discourse on a subject, which by others hath been so much handled, for which there are many, many arguments unanswer- ably demonstrative of this truth, both physical and moral. Yet having mentioned it, I cannot altogether pass the same, without a touch at some few that may be most convincing and obvious. 1. If you should question the being and subsistence of the soul after death, you must also deny its frame ; that it is a simple, immaterial, and active substance, which hath neither
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quantity nor parts, and is not compounded of any principles, and therefore can be resolved into none. 2. Do but consider, if tlie soul have no cause of corrup- tion, and from no contraries can suffer opposition as the body does, through the prevalency of heat or cold, how should it then admit of a dissolution with the body \ For you know generation and corruption they are by contraries, and if you argue from any natural cause, it must surely be one of two, which makes the soul partake with the body, in its decay and moulder- ing down ; either a dependence on matter, as the soul of the beast hath, which is but a material form, — or a conflict from contrary qualities, which you know helps the body's wasting and its fall. But I think, you would not so far contradict reason, to allege any of these anent the soul of man. 3. Consider, if by these diseases to which the body is subject, the soul is not reached, must it not also have a distinct existence from it ? And I am sure you must grant, the soul doth not directly suffer from any outward diseases ; but the body may be under inexpressible pain and anguish, when there is a sweet calm and serenity within. 4. Does not this witness, that the soul lies not a dying with the body, nor falls with it, since it suffers no de- crease, but is found strong and vigorous in its actings, when the flesh is brought low, and on a visible decay? Yea, is it not at the greatest advantage in its exer- cise and discerning, the more separate from the body and sensible things 1 Now, it is sure, that cannot be destructive to the soul in its being, which is so sub- servient to it in its operation. I think, those who ever observed the joy and peace of a dying Christian, and the excellent frame and composure of his soul, under a pained and languishing body through many
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diseases, may clearly see this truth, and there read a lecture of the immortality of the soul. 5. Will you consider, can the soul of man have a dependence on the body in its being, when it does no way depend thereon in its acting and exercise I — for it is sure it does truly act, yea, hath a clear ratiocination even when the body sleeps. And oh, does it not prove that this soul that is found waking when the other is asleep, must have a distinct subsistence, and live when it dies ? 6. If you admit that there are spirits and incorporeal beings which do act without a body, and yet have a true and real subsistence, can you doubt or question the existing of the soul, or its exercising the faculties thereof without the body, though you do not reach how this should be % And if there be indeed a con- verse and intercourse betwixt us and spiritual beings, yea, a truth in fellowship with God the Father of spirits, oh, may not this satisfyingly demonstrate that existence and acting of the soul, even when the body is at a distance, and in the grave % 7. Consider, that which you must grant hath a dominion and pre-eminence over the body, by its making a rational choice of good, when it is most cross to the desire and delight of the flesh ; yea, cannot only determine it to endure most grievous torments, but does oft witness a special de- lectation therein : — must it not be something truly distinct from the body, which can have a subsistence without it % Now this I am sure you will not deny, that there is such a dominion over the flesh, and a captivating of it to the law of the mind, which the most sensual and brutish will not deny in many in- stances, how little acquaintance soever they have with it themselves. 8. Since there is a discovery and know- ledge of things, not only above the reach and impres~
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sions of sense, but even contrary thereto ; that men do rationally judge and assent to truths, which truly con- tradict their senses ; as the rotundity of the earth, which seems to us a plain, &c. oh, does it not shew this soul in man, which can so far soar above the earth, and does so far exceed the body, must be of a more excellent mould, and something truly different from it \ I shall but add, what means that war and strug- gling, which to every Christian is known betwixt the iiesh and the Spirit ; yea, to every man is known be- twixt him and his natural conscience 1 What mean these reflex acts of the soul on itself, these marvellous products of the understanding, and new discoveries ? Why are men so anxious and concerned about their surviving name, which is a most poor airy accident not worth the regarding, if there were a destruction of the whole \ What means that marvellous deport- ment of so many martyrs for the truth, that they should shew such a joy and satisfaction amidst their torments, as though they had no bodies, the pleasure of the soul so far overcoming the pain of the flesh ? What means so universal a consent to this truth, that these who hate and fear it, yet cannot be rid thereof? And I must also ask, how are the choice and the ex- cellent of the earth, so oft crushed under the feet of their oppressors, whilst these wretches do oft wallow in all satisfying outward delights, yea, sometimes go hence without bands in their death 1 In a word, oh, what is it that makes so vast a difference betwixt men and beasts, since these you see have a sensual life, want not some natural sagacity, and have their enjoyments by the senses as well as man 1
3. Let us consider how great and astonishing a truth this is. Oh, immortality ! do men believe it ? — the
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soul's surviving the body, and that condition wherein it will enter, and yet have so few thoughts thereof? for this is a matter of such concernment, that may turn much of our life into a continued wondering. I must say, can this be believed, — our having an im- mortal soul, which is of a more excellent nature and inestimable value than these visible heavens, sun, moon, and stars ; for which no less than the blood of him who was truly God, could ransom from everlast- ing wrath, and yet we put so small a price thereon ? Is it indeed believed by men, whilst they are so hot in their pursuit after the world, since here is a question that may silence all flesh, What should it avail a man to gain, were it the whole world, when it is purchased with the losing of the soul 1 It is sure, there is no ima- ginable proportion betwixt that and a piece of red earth ; or betwixt a few years of time, and long eternity.
I remember a passage of worthy Mr Blair, our own countryman, who the first time he heard Mr Bruce preach, said, the fame of so great a man caused him expect something very extraordinary from him ; but his whole sermon did press this truth of the soul's being immortal, and that it was a great thing to believe it. He confessed, it did at first some way amuse him, why he dwelt so much upon so known and common a subject : but after, he found, it was some other thing than appears at the first look ; for which men may dispute and toss it as a notion in the schools, who never knew what it was to believe the truth thereof; and that a serious impression of it on the heart, is something else than a swimming in the head, by some ordinary speculation of this.
Oh, what a truth ! and what astonishment should
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it cause, if men would but sometimes go alone and consider, 1. What it is they have thus held out to them ; and how great a change is before them, which ere many days must be in their condition, when once that strange step is passed betwixt time and another world, which they can step but once. 2. That this marvellous change is truly near, time making long steps ; the vessel under full sail, which carries forward men whether they sleep or wake, to that port ; for it is sure this cannot be long deferred, and it is very un- sure but this night thy soul may be required. 3. That this change must be in a moment, in the very twinkling of an eye, and no interval, but a present entering of the soul into that after-state, which shall then put the Christian in the fulness of an incon- ceivable joy, in the immediate presence of God, in the embracements of the Mediator, amongst the angels and spirits of just men made perfect. But one mo- ment also must put others out of their sensual plea- sures and delights; the prince off his throne, and those who have been wallowing in the world, down to those dark and horrid prisons, where with the ceasing of the world's melody, they are forthwith met with that horrid noise and howling of the devils, and of all the company of the damned. 4. Oh, if men would consider what thoughts they shall then have in another world, of that other world, and what other thoughts of their former state and condition, how far they will find this beyond all they ever thought or conceived at a distance. 5. Should it not cause astonishment, to think seriously on this great change, which admits no after, change, but that there, long eternity is the true measure of the soul's duration after death ? Oh, what a long breathing
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word, to be eyer, ever blessed or miserable ; where the one hath no fear, and can go no more out ; and the other no hope, or possibility thereof \ The hope of the hireling is not there, that he may change his master at the next term ; for these gates are everlast- ingly shut, by the decree of Him who alters not.
Now, to shut up this argument, I shall offer one instance more, wherein the world may see the truth of the Scripture, and therewith of a divine providence, convincingly demonstrated, if prejudice did not draw a veil, and obstruct so excellent a discovery : it is this, that the way of God is perfect (Psal. xviii. 30), and that his works are perfect, and his ways judg- ment, (Deut. xxxii. 4) ; yea, that he does all things well, (Mark vii. 37) ; which testimony then the mul- titude was forced to bear to this great truth. And, oh, how great a truth is it, which can be said neither of angels nor men, but to Him hath a peculiar respect ; even to him alone, in whose way there is nothing crooked, no mistake, no inequality, nothing too much or superfluous, nothing out of due time, that is either too soon or too late, nothing incongruous, nothing mis- placed ; yea, in all, he does nothing which is not best done, which any could rectify or make better ; but in every piece of his work leaves matter of wonder be- hind, and thus declares himself to be God. I know this is a truth the world cannot well bear, but pre- tends a visible contradiction, from the great disorder that things here seem to be in. For men will oppose to this, what a miscarrying there is of instruments ; what a strange emergency there is of most grievous and cross accidents, the most promising means fre- quently blasted; yea, how good and evil are so strangely interweaved : and is not the present day, oft un-
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doing the work and labour of the former? Yet, whatever the world can say to darken this great truth, that the way of the Lord is absolutely perfect, it must shine ; yea, it does not want clearness, when by a thick interposition betwixt us and the same, there may be need of clearing it, The sun ceases not to shine, when the clouds obstruct its brightness to us. Oh, that those who will debate so great a truth, would but come near, and by a serious perpending, consider the work of the Lord ; then should they see so much in the daily tract and administration of pro- vidence, yea, even in most ordinary passages thereof, that might arrest their spirit with astonishment, the discovery whereof they shun, by keeping at a distance from it.
I shall touch a little this demonstration, how this piece of divine truth is verified and written out in the event to the observation of the world, that they who cannot spiritually discern the same, yet have so much witnessed to dazzle their eyes, and force this acknowledgment, that the way of the Lord is perfect, and he hath done all things well. And for clearing, I would offer some particulars, though few, yet so very comprehensive, that in a large measure, they reach not only those great works of God, wherein he most eminently declares himself about the church, but take in also the most ordinary things of provi- dence here under the sun, and therein demonstrate the certainty of this truth.
First, You may see this clearly verified, that the way of the Lord is perfect, in the whole frame and structure of the church of Christ here, which is made a great wonder, and an astonishing piece of the work of God, beyond the most exquisite human contrivance
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that eyer was. It is her true glory that does most affect the eye, and ravish the heart ; it is within, and lies not in the common road of men's observation ; yea, some parts of this excellent body, oft-times are in such a disorder, as darkens the beauty of the whole ; there is such an intermixture of the hay and stubble of human inventions, with this choice building1, that helps to mar its order and beauty ; the carved work also may be spoiled and broken down, as with axes and hammers. Yet with all these disadvantages, there is a glory on the church of Christ, an awful majesty, such convincing marks of its grandeur, even under its ruins, as have forced the world, and the great men thereof, to consider that sight with wonder and amazement, which you see, (Psal. xlviii.) ; they saw, they marvelled, and hasted away. And the pre- ceding words give clear reason ; for " God was known in her palaces for a refuge ;" they saw something both in the grandeur and frame of the church, and in her preservation, that forced them to see that it was something more than human.
Now, to clear this a little, do but consider these few instances, wherein you may see the great and stupen- dous fabric of the church, and how all things are there well ordered by him who hath framed it : 1. You may see on what a sure foundation it is built, even that of the prophets and apostles, which is the Scrip- ture of God ; whereon, as it is manifestly founded, it is no less marvellously united and joined together in Jesus Christ, who is the chief corner-stone. "Will you seriously consider the form of the house, and the fashions thereof, its goings out, and comings in, with all its ordinances, and there you may see how marvel- lously exact and uniform this building is. 2. Is it
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not likewise obvious, that the church thus fitly joined together, and knit by all that the joints do supply, in its whole complex frame, groweth up as a building to the Lord ? Yea, is there not a very strait union and correspondence betwixt all the parts thereof, in the same faith and worship, that, though divided in many parcels through the world, yet it is still one entire body ; the union whereof, the variety of members, and these of such various sizes, that great inequality amongst them in their growth, the remoteness of place, different languages, exile, or change of countries, yet cannot break off that near tie that joins the church of Christ together ? 3. What a wonderful contri- vance is it, which is in the world, yet not of it ; that spreads itself among the nations, yet loseth not its own distinct being ; is mixed with human societies, yet an inclosure and incorporation by herself; a fountain of sweet waters sealed, though surrounded with this great salt ocean of the world ; is made up of many particu- lar churches, yet every part homogeneous, and of the same nature with the whole ; and though it seems to be open to sore assaults, yet is a defenced city, which is impaled, hath both her walls and watchman, her bulwarks and strong towers. 4. This is of such a frame, that is both visible and invisible, yet not two distinct churches ; though under divers considerations it comprehends both without any jar, and hath com- munion with Jesus Christ as her head for life, stand- ing related to him as his mystical body, and yet, as a visible politic body, is related also to him, as its su- preme head, by a political government and guidance, and hath an express charter granted for its extents and rights. 5. This must be said of it, Though black, yet comely ; though it does not want some spots, they
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do not so far mar her beauty, but that in its several administrations there appears a singular grace; it hath indeed its blemishes and failings, yet every measure and degree thereof, does not forfeit her rela- tion, rights, and privileges. 6. Is it not a marvellous frame, which does not want a corrupt mixture, yet in its rule and constitution, does allow no corruption ] and though many are found gross within, yet does it make difference betwixt the precious and the vile; yea, shuts its gates as well as it opens, and is no more tender and easy in her admission, than awful and authoritative in her rejection. 7. Is so well consti- tuted, that all her officers have their appointment, and each his work and charge designed, yet no greater variety of service and employments than there is of gifts, which from her head are dispensed and suited to the same. 8. She is of such a mould and frame, that though she can boast of an intrinsic power within herself, yet she must derive it from another fountain ; yea, must have a directory and rule from her supreme Head and Lawgiver, for exercising the acts of that power ; which also hath its proper object, even the inward man, and its peculiar end, the edification of the body, to which this power, and the exercise there- of are directed. 9. This is such a body, the members whereof are indeed subject to the magistrate, and de- ny no due obedience to that power, yet without any subordination or subjecting of the church as such to a human power ; and though it hath not its authority or jurisdiction from men, it denies no just respect to these. It does bind and loose upon the earth, which no human power can make void ; and though cast in among the nations, yet by peculiar bounds is kept from all other societies distinct. She hath her
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judicatories, and there a subordination of the lesser to the greater, yet no allowed pre-eminence and ine- quality amongst her officers ; yea, though her govern- ment is truly monarchical with respect to her head, for there is but one supreme Lord, yet, with respect to the servants and officers, it is a most excellent well- tempered aristocracy, which holds off these gradual differences of power and greatness amongst them, which is so much in use amongst the nations. In a word, oh, will you consider this choice and exquisite frame, and you will see how both tenderness and severity here concur ; what a healing there is here in her sharpest rebukes and censures ; whilst a private essay for gaining, is to go before a public and judi- cial procedure ; yea, her authoritative determinations, without prejudice to the judgment of Christian pru- dence and discretion, which belongs to every one of her members. Consider also how she wears not out, but hath still a spring after the winter ; hath both her signs and her seasons ; and whilst she is losing, and in a decay as to particular members, she is still travel- ling in birth for a new offspring and succession. Oh, that they who stand afar would but come near, and seriously look on this rare piece of work ! " Go about Zion, consider well her towers and bulwarks,1' that you may see this is a fabric the Lord hath founded and raised up, and that surely this piece of the word is therein fulfilled, " His way is perfect, and he does all things well."
Second, Is not this great truth clearly demon- strated, not only in the frame, but in the whole con- duct and administration of providence about the church, which is indeed one of the most marvellous discoveries we have of God here 1 — yea, even to the
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world is offc convincingly obvious, through what a variety of dispensations he useth to bring forth his work, and makes his way oft break out of the bosom of a dark cloud 1 — yea, so unexpectedly can make these perplexed changes with which the church mili- tant is tossed, resolve in such a satisfying close, that it may be seen they were all directed for his interest and advantage % I know this is a great deep, and we cannot have such a discovery of the providence of God about the church, nor reach the meaning of things in their first mould, as in their after-tendency and product. Oh, that marvellous sight which shall once be when that great work of providence, that now is put over into the hand of the Mediator, hath its perfect close, and the whole frame and contexture set up together as one entire piece to look upon, that is now by several pieces,, and through a various suc- cession of ages carried on ! Yet we must say, the Lord herein comes so near, even in the darkest times, and makes the glory of this truth in such a measure shine forth, that may convincingly witness to any or- dinary observers, that the way of the Lord is perfect in all that he does.
I shall here offer some few things, that in every time are obvious to those who take pleasure in such a discovery, and desire not to keep at a distance therewith :
1. Must it not be said of His way, that he does nothing in vain, but makes all things congruous to his end, even things that amongst themselves do most cross one another \ Does he not carry on His de- sign by the miscarrying of instruments, and bring forth his greatest works by means most small and contemptible \ I know the world would object, that
u
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tliey can see no such, thing ; and indeed, proyidence cannot be understood, or the meaning thereof by one look. But I must ask, do you discern the motion of the hand upon the clock, even whilst it is certainly going forward 1 yet when it comes to the hour, and strikes, you will see it was then moving. It is sure, there are such periods that providence hath, where its meaning does not clearly break up until then, that it comes to the striking of the hour, if we may so say, and then the most stupid are forced to observe what once seemed most improbable inthe way of the Lord.
2. Is it not also obvious, how the Lord doth en- snare men in the work of their own hands, and turns their wrath unto his praise ; how he takes the wise, and outwits them by their counsels ; makes events fall out contrary to the second causes ; frustrates the most promising means, and by things unknown and unthought upon, does oft bring forth the deliverance of the church ; yea, how out of shame and reproach, he does even bring about his glory 1 Surely these are not so far in the dark, that in any age the world can al- together pretend ignorance thereof ; and is not His way perfect, of which such things can be said ?
3. Have we not this discovery, how the church is oft fed by the rod, yea, under that, appears with such advantage, that it may be said, her meat hath been brought forth out of the eater % How usually are her mercy and enlargement prepared for her by the rod, and she is humbled in order to an up-rising and de- liverance ; yea, oft is one step of the way of the Lord made clear to her by another % Oh, is not here so excellent and marvellous a method, that all the wit and invention of the world cannot follow ?
4. His way is indeed perfect, and by an infinite
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wisdom managed, which does at once, and by the very same providence reach so many several designs, yea, bring forth such various and contrary effects, that no human reason could ever judge the result and conclusion by the premises ; how severity and mercy should be at once brought forth; a more full stroke on the adversaries, by their further raising, yea, by a long forbearance of that stroke ; how he should also make use of the same mean both for humbling and proving, and to do his people good in the latter end. Oh, how perfect must His way be, where all the steps thereof, and after-product would seem repugnant, yet no real jar ; for the church sinking, yet does not per- ish; in a flame, yet not consumed, but is thereby kept alive ; brought under the yoke of the oppressor, to make her grow and flourish; is wounded and smitten, for her further healing, and a witness of his tenderness to her thereby ; hath a greater weight and burden put on, to give her thus ease and enlargement ; yea, is chastened and trysted with suffering, to pre- vent suffering, that she may rest in the day of trouble. Sure, these are a part of the ways of God, and may be visibly demonstrated in the conduct of his provi- dence about the church, even to the conviction of the world. But oh ! it is hard to see, where men will shut their eyes.
5. Is it not obvious, what strange things do some- times fall in betwixt the beginning and close of some special piece of providence about the church, that do pass human reach to give a present reason for the same 1 Yet in all these, may there not be discerned a remarkable dependence and connection of things ; how in such a variety of cross events, and in a long- continued tract of providence, every thing falls in
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aright in its own place ; yea, every step, every cir- cumstance so proportioned by a marvellous disposal and conduct thereof, to suit another, for making the whole complex providence beautiful, that on a serious review, the world must confess, this is a concatena- tion so strange, that it must be His work, and his alone, who sees things from the beginning to the end.
6. How perfect is his way, who can hasten and dispatch his work by delays ; and when he seems to take a long circuit in bringing about his design, yet loses no time, but in such a visible going back, does most effectually move forward. Yea, is it not seen, how he makes things fall in, that are very unexpected, cross, and remote, (that would never have entered in our thoughts,) to answer his blessed end ; and even dispose that, which above all might seem most di-r rectly destructive to the church, to be of all other things most effectual and subservient to her advance ; bring her more quickly forward to the harbour by a storm, than a calm 1 Oh, have we not such great things to observe in the way of the Lord, that may shew it is indeed perfect \
7. It is also very clear, though not on the first view, yet in the close and issue, what a certain steady motion providence hath, and keeps on its course, whilst the world is reeling to and fro ; how the church's mercy hath by greatest disappointments been more fully answered, than in the most probable way : yea, when her out-gate seemed furthest off, and had been much followed with many a weary look from some other airt, with what a strange surprisal does providence oft break up at her hand, as it were from under the ground, with an unexpected mercy.
8. You may see His way is perfect, who puts a
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peculiar beauty on every occurrent of providence, and brings it forth in the very fit opportune time, that it could not fall out more seasonably, and with more advantage to the church. Is there not a seen cause for her sharp trials ; and the necessity thereof no less discernible, than there is of the winter, for the profit and advantage of the earth \ And is it not also ma- nifest, her reviving came never too late, but in the very fittest time ? I know, the world may object, they can see this in the revolutions of the year, but not in any such changes of the church : yet I am sure this is manifest, that the church of Christ hath her sad and more comforting times here, with as discerni- ble a succession of the one to the other, as there is of the summer to the winter ; yea, that under these vicissitudes of her condition, she is still seen to look forth with a peculiar advantage. I shall add, what a marvellous composition and temperament of con- traries is discernible in this excellent frame of provi- dence ! There is nothing here incongruous, nothing here too small, which doth not fall under its reach, and nothing so great that can overreach it. Here is no jar or disagreeing with the diligent use of means : yet does this rise so far above the same, that no hu- man care can bend it to their will ; nor is there any running cross to such a current. Here is indeed an unsearchable deep ! yet so much is there broken up and made clear, that may convincingly witness and verify this truth, even to ordinary observers, that the way of the Lord is perfect, and what we now cannot attain in its discovery, we should learn to admire, and solidly believe a more clear manifestation thereof.
Third, I shall yet further pursue this demonstra- tion, with respect to that great and marvellous work
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of God iii the redemption of the church ; — a contriv- ance, we may say, more wonderful than this whole structure of the universe ; of the heavens and earth, which are so exquisitely framed : for here the thing itself is not more astonishing, than the way and con- duct of infinite wisdom is in the whole frame, and all the steps thereof. Oh, this great thing, that men's distance therewith does only keep them from being dazzled ; where their ignorance is the great let why they do not more wonder at it ! This is indeed far above nature, that without a divine illumination it cannot be known or understood. Yet we must say, so much is brought forth and discovered, that those who have only report, and thence give some ordinary assent thereto, cannot have their reason and judg- ment in exercise, without some such conviction upon their souls, that surely this is a contrivance above human reach, and worthy of the great God ; yea, that herein his way is most absolutely perfect. And no sight can be like this, where we may see so excel- lent a correspondence between the foundation and superstructure, that the whole tract of the gospel is but one entire and complete mean for glorifying God, and does into this, as the ultimate end, resolve. Here men may see the greatness of His power, that inex- pressible freedom of his grace, the holy severity of his justice, all meet and join together in a sweet agreement, where both justice is salved and fully an- swered, and yet sinners saved ; where mercy does re- joice over condemnation, vengeance is taken on our inventions, and the inventors escape. Oh, strange ! a redemption without price, and absolutely free as to sinners ; yet all that a just God could exact, fully satisfied and told down.
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It is here we may raise and pursue this great thing up to the fountain-head, which is the sovereign plea- sure of God, and is the internal impulsive cause ; and thence follow it down to that infinite satisfaction of the Mediator, which is the great meritorious cause. And here we may see how marvellously well ordered all the steps of this way are, all the parts of this con- trivance ; how the elect are made meet for the in- heritance, through sanctification of the Spirit ; how faith hath its special concurrence and instrumentality, without prejudice to the absolute freedom of grace, since it is freely given to believe ; how these excel- lent means are by a most strait connection linked with the eternal counsel of God, and in a most beau- tiful order joined one with another. Here does sanc- tification flow from an eternal decree, and like an ex- cellent stream doth run down through time, until it lose itself (to say so) in that great depth of everlast- ing blessedness ; yea, thus the purpose of the Lord runs under the ground concerning his people, until it break up at last in their heart, by their answering the call of the gospel. Oh, how stately a piece of work this is ! And is not his way perfect therein, where you may see that grand plot of the devil to undo man, break upon himself, and by the seed of the woman his head crushed 1 — where so glorious a fabric is raised out of so great a ruin, and poor man established by his fall ; where the glory of the sove- reign God, the freedom of grace, and man's blessed- ness at once meet together ; where the cure is broad and large as the wound, and the restoration made to answer to every piece of that ruin 1 — I mean, not only in man's being ransomed from eternal wrath ; but that the enmity should be killed and taken away.,
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and such a marvellous change of his nature, by the renewing of the Spirit, which even here restores him in part to that he lost.
It is on this blessed contrivance we may see men brought under a constraint, by irresistible grace, yet without violence ; their reason further raised and re- fined, yet not broken, and its true liberty not taken away, but restored ; yea, a notable consistency betwixt moral persuasive arguments, and the efficacious power of grace ; betwixt men's planting and watering in the use of means, and the alone increase thereof from the Lord ; betwixt a physical and moral concurrence in producing one and the same effect betwixt those two desires in prayer, Da Do?nine, quod jubes, etjvbe quod vis, (Give, Lord, what thou orderest, and order what thou wilt). Is there not likewise here a most excel- lent suitableness and congruity betwixt repentance and remission of sins, without prejudice to the free- dom of grace, since He gives repentance, as well as requires it, and makes his people what he would have them to be % Oh, how marvellous a contrivance is there, where the blessed majesty of God finds an argu- ment in himself, when man had none wherewith to plead ; — was found in the form of a servant, and be- came our nearest kinsman, to redeem the inheritance ; where his people's standing is ensured by another surety and strength than their own, not on their ap- prehending, but their being apprehended ; where the Lord does oblige himself by bond to make that good, which is only of grace, and is most freely given ; where he both frames the desire within the soul, and satisfies it. I shall only add, it is here the redeemed have nothing in themselves to boast of, and the reprobate none but themselves to accuse; for on whomsoever
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that door is shut, they have therein actively concurred to draw a bar for shutting themselves out.
Fourth, I shall offer one instance more, wherein this great truth may be demonstrated to the world, that the way of the Lord is perfect, that his works are done in judgment; yea, that he does all things well, with respect to that marvellous order of nature, and disposal of the works of God under the sun ; how inexpressibly well all are fitted for some use, and di- rected to their proper end. This is indeed a truth, wherein the greatest atheists may see this piece of the Scripture convincingly verified ; wherein God comes so near, that men may feel after him, (Acts xvii. 27), that it may be said, there is no way to shift this discovery, but to stop their ears, and shut their eyes. Oh, what a wonderful disposal may be seen, even in the commonest tilings, with a mutual subser- viency to each other ! And in this great variety and throng of the creatures, is it not obvious, how each hath its voice and speech, to give us something of in- struction, and every thing hath some matter of won- der in it, that we may say, it is hard to be an athiest % There must be a strange violencingof their light, where the invisible God comes so near, to make himself known by things visible, and by so marvellous a con- duct and ordering thereof, shews unto the sons of men that he does all things well. Oh, may it not be said, we cease to wonder, because every day we live and converse amongst wonders 1
Now it is here the world hath a demonstration of the Scripture that they dare not debate, lest they should deny sense as well as reason. And if any will question the glorious Former of all things, why things are thus ordered and disposed, let him but retire within
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himself, and he shall find that the want and defect are truly within, which he would challenge in the way of the Lord. May we not see with astonishment this frame and composure of the universe, how each thing doth answer its part, and to the conservation of the whole ; how amidst a great contrariety, an ex- cellent concord is manifest, in all its different parts, natures and dispositions 1 I must truly say, not only duty, but delight and pleasure may call men to this study ; yea, even to lose themselves, as it were, in so sweet a labyrinth, where it is more easy to enter, than to find an out-gate ; and all things do witness even to men's senses the truth of the Scripture. It is sad, that we have so choice and true a history every day to read on, of the works of God, which are not in themselves greater than that wisdom is by which they are ordered, and it should be for the most part as a sealed book. But it is not here in a general, that this truth can be reached. Oh, will you come and see 1 Consider the work of the Lord, and you must also see it is perfect, and his ways are judgment ; yea, that he hath done all things well.
Do but consider this stupendous frame of the uni- verse, a fabric that in all its parts is most exactly joined, and nothing in it defective or out of order : here you may see that great minister of nature the sun, with what advantage it is placed and fitted to dispense its light and refreshing influences to the earth. Is it not with such wisdom, that to move in a higher or lower orb, would not thus answer the advantage of things below 1 With what a constant motion does it travel betwixt the tropics to fulfil its annual course ; and in diverse parts, does successively arise, that by turns it may give the several parts of the earth a visit.
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Should we cease, to wonder at the rising and setting thereof, because it is so frequently seen % Oh, may not this arrest our thoughts with astonishment, with what wisdom it is made subservient all along its course, to cause summer and winter, spring and har- vest ; yea, how its approaches and withdrawings are gradual ? — that by its ascent in the spring, it may dis- pose our bodies for the summer ; and by its descent in such a degree in the harvest, may prepare and fit us for the winter, that there should not be an immediate bordering betwixt these extremes ? Is not its corres- pondence also manifest, that it hath with things here below, which does not only reach the surface of the earth, but the most inward bowels and secret caverns thereof ; for its power is known on minerals as well as plants 1
Is it not also evident that this glorious body of the moon, though of a lesser glory than the other, is for another use than for men to gaze thereon ? How it keeps them from groping in utter darkness through the night, and lights a candle to the world when the sun is gone down, which, by its withdrawing, does so far discover the glory of the moon and stars, that its brightness did veil and darken. Its influence is known also upon the sea, upon seeds and plants, yea, upon the humours and complexions of men's bodies. Oh, what innumerable employments are these by which it is made continually subservient to the world ! And do you not see how the night hath its special use, and is well ordered as well as the day ; yea, that it hath its peculiar beauty, and by its darkness doth com- mend the light, and xaakes its approach more sweet and desirable 1 This gives the labouring world some time foi repose, and most observably answers man's
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weariness, and necessity of such a rest with so fit a season, that we may say, it but draws a curtain about us for that end, and doth thus retire the earth, and put it in a sweet and silent composure from the noise and hurryings of the day. Yea, does not every even- ing solemnly warn men of their approaching death, and swift passing away of time, that they may have no excuse of being surprised in this great change, who have so grave, so frequent a monitor to speak it to them 1
But let us a little further follow this choice inquiry and search of nature, which is so clear a witness to the Scripture, and you may see how marvellous these various motions of the heavens are ; the position of the stars and constellations, where each hath its own proper course, yet all carried about to one general and common end ; to shew there must be a first mover who is not subject to motion or change, but does mani- festly determine all these. Oh strange ! how does this great body of the earth hang upon nothing ; that a thing so vast and ponderous should lean upon the air, as on a foundation ! Must there not be here a piece of art above human reach, how thus it does keep its centre, and rests thereupon % And is it not clear, how steady the axis of the earth is, and per- petually parallel with itself, that it cannot tumble this or that way ? What a marvellous order is also seen in these higher motions of the celestial bodies, of which some are slow, others more rapid ; some tend to the east, others towards the west ; and yet from these, though thus cross to other, there results a singular harmony, in which the conservation of the world, and production of things here below are con- cerned, which could not so well have answered this,
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without such a variety in their courses. It is true, the Lord might have made every day a year's length, and caused the sun keep its course from east to west so long ; but oh, how well are all these things ordered, and that thus he doth divide our life into such short stages, to make us more frequently mind our change.
We see likewise, how marvellously the earth is framed in its various parts and proportions, and the singular advantage it hath both in its posture and figure ; the mountains and high places do not mar its beauty, nor want their use, where the beasts have a shelter provided. And is not nature likewise more displayed and laid open to men by the plains and val- leys, which are to the earth a special ornament 1 How manifold is the use of the air, which fills up that vast space betwixt the higher and lower world ! It is here the birds find use for their wings ; through this the rains find an easy passage ; this does intervene betwixt the sun and the earth, yet is no let to the communi- cation either of light or heat, but its scorching is thus qualified by that sweet cool breathing of the air. Is not the singular use and advantage of the winds also known ; and how these are both directed and bounded, so that men can neither cause a storm nor a calm at their pleasure \
And oh, can you look on the sea, and not wonder what marvellous things are there ; how it is shut up with gates and bars, and hath its appointed bounds, without which there could be no reason, how a bank of sand should restrain the great ocean from breaking forth? Its manifold uses and advantages are also known. Would any wish that the whole earth were dry land ] And, strange ! that this not only is made passable, but by that art of navigation, becomes a
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more easy way for transport and commerce, by which. cities and countries are made to flourish. Do you not see that regular course it keeps in its ebbings and flowings ; the singular use and subservience of the tides ; so that when men are perplexed in an inquiry about the natural cause of these, they cannot but ob- serve the special end and advantage thereof?
May we not with wonder also see, how these parts of the world, which have the most scorching day, and greatest heat, have usually the longest night to qualify it with such a cooling moisture 1 How these countries which have no rain, as Egypt, have some supply there- of, by an overflowing of the rivers % Do you see any members, either of men or beasts, superfluous, and want a use ; or is there any poison but hath some peculiar antidote provided ? Yea, the most hurtful creatures, as serpents and vipers, are found of singular use in medicine against their own hurt, as the oil of scorpions is, against the sting thereof. You see the poor people have medicinal waters provided without money : and it is a notable remark, which is certainly known of one, who enclosed some such well in his ground, that he might put an impost thereon, but had it taken away, and run dry on his hand. "What a marvellous use is there of natural antipathies and sympathies, whereon the operation of medicine, and the special improvement of navigation, by making nse of the loadstone, do so much depend.
You see how the harvest gives a large conipensa- ' tion for the toil of the spring : and do not the poor man's labours through the day, make his bed soft in the evening, and his rest sweet unto him ? You see that correspondence the heavens keep with the earth in these sweet refreshing showers, by which lis seminal
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virtue is drawn forth ; and thus the rain doth moisten what the heat would scorch : you may see how it is distilled and dropped down, not in violent spates, but as it were, through a small sieve, or otherwise it would hurt more than help. You would not desire to want rain, nor yet to have it perpetual ; and thus it is ordered. Are not the vapours exhaled from the earth, that by refreshing showers they may return thither again %
Oh, how manifold are the works of the Lord ! and in what wisdom hath he done them all % Is not the pain and travail of the beasts in bringing forth their young, proportioned to their condition, and to that lodging they have \ " They bow themselves, and bring forth their young, and cast forth their sorrows," (Job xxxix. 3) ; and as their time and duration is for the most part shorter than man's, is not their growth also suited thereto ? You see men have their lodging furnished ere they come in the world ; the breasts are provided, and by a wonderful instinct they are taught to seek after the same. It is known, how the want of hearing or sight useth some other way to be re- compensed with some special natural sagacity ; yea, a want and defect in some parts of the body is oft supplied with a greater agility in some other mem- bers thereof, which is known in many remarkable instances ; such as that woman in this country, not long since, who had no arms from her birth ; but could with no less dexterity make use of her right foot, for all the uses of her hand. You see how the beasts have some natural defence, and are taught self-preservation ; and what the hare and hind want of the lion's paw and strength, is made up oft by a more swift foot. What an advantageous antipathy there
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is amongst the beasts, lest the earth should be over- run with these which are hurtful ; the dog fitted by a strange tendency of its kind to pursue the wolf and the fox, and the cat for destroying of rats. You see how the oxen are tamed to endure the yoke, and brought under discipline, whose strength is above many of the wild beasts. Are not these things that are most absolutely necessary, most easy likewise to be had ; and whilst such a variety of labour and toil attends the lot of man here, doth not the earth also afford variety of delights % You see the birds need no instructor to build their nests, and choose a fit place, nor do they mistake their seasons ; yea, do not these sweet musicians, by their natural melody, call men to praise, whose debt is much above theirs 1 Is there not a marvellous coalition betwixt the graft and the tree, which exceeds human art, if nature did not so wonderfully co-operate therein, and in the in- oculating a small bud into a stock1? And oh, that wonderful increase that follows the seed thrown into the ground, how it dies and rots there, that it may rise with the greater lustre and advantage, and by such a significant emblem teach men the certainty of the raising of their bodies ; for it is sure, the ordinary things of nature are great and convincing hieroglyphics, to hold forth more divine things, if we could but read them. Do you not see what veins of coals, and other minerals go through the earth, whence it is furnished, and hath fit materials for daily use, and for an im- provement of men's faculties ? Is not the earth watered by an intercourse which springs and rivers have with the sea ? And what some parts of the world want, is it not in other things supplied, that every country hath almost some peculiar advantages }
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It is known how the coldest places of the earth do most abound with the warmest furs. You see the beasts want not their table ; and is not the lily well clothed ? Doth the grass of the ground want its use 1 yea. is not the very colour thereof notably suited for men's eyes ? What cause of wonder is there of the difFerent forms, the virtues, and variety of plants? You see the little ants have their magazine and store- house, the bees want not some order and government ; yea, no human skill can frame such work as theirs is. But, 0 man ! what a curious and exquisite fabric is that which did come in amongst the last of the crea- tion, but as the greatest wonder thereof; a most rare piece of work, of a strange, various, and subtle composition, in which there is so notable a harmony made up of many contraries ! I think that those who would learn atheism are not only concerned to stifle their reason, but to shut their eyes from looking on themselves, and the frame of their bodies, which is so curiously wrought with nerves, sinews, and veins, with such a variety of parts, and yet not one bone or muscle superfluous.
EDINBURGH : PRINTED BY JOHN GREI3.
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