A Guide to Godliness, Table of contents 1 – Book 1
A TABLE CONTAINING IN IT THE CONTENTS of the Chapters and Sections in the Treatiſe following.
The Contents of the firſt Booke.
CAP. I.
Containing the Preface to the following Treatiſe, which ſheweth the excellency, profit and neceſſity of the ſubiect matter therein handled. pag. 1.
Sect. 1. THat the end of eueryevery thing is to be preferred before the meanes which are deſtinated vntounto it. 1.
2 That the practice of Religion and godlineſſe, is to bee preferred before the theory and bare knowledge of it. 2
3 That the practice of godlineſſe is an infallible ſigne of the ſincerity of our knowledge and profeſſion. 3
4 That the practice of godlineſſe is the touch-ſtone of our faith. 3
5 That though a godly life is not the cauſe, yet it is the way to euerlaſting happineſſe. 4
6 That all Gods Miniſters ſhould inforce this doctrine and practice of a godly life. 4
CAP. II.
Containing the definition of a godly life, whereby we may know what it is, and wherin it conſiſteth. 5
Sect. 1 What a godly life is, both according to the Law, and the Goſpell. 5
2 That a godly life chiefly conſiſteth in Euangelicall and filiall obedience, and what it is. 5
3 That the regenerate onelyonly can leade a godly life. 6
4 That the Spirit of God is the Authour of ſpirituall life. 7
5 That the Spirit inlighteneth vsus in the wayes of godlineſſe. 7
6 That we muſt be ingrafted into Chriſt, before we can leade a godly life. 8
7 That onelyonly thoſe can leade a godly life, who are in the couenant of grace. 9
8 That a liuely faith is neceſſarily required to a godly life. 10
9 That the duties of a godly life muſt ſpring from the fountaine of louelove. 10
10 That the duties of a godly life muſt proceed from thankfulneſſe. 11
11 That the duties of a godly life muſt be done in humility. 11
12 That we muſt propound Gods glory, as the end of all our actions. 13
CAP. III.
Of the maine matter of a godly life, namely, that it muſt be framed according to Gods will, in holineſſe, righteouſneſſe and ſobriety. 14
Sect. 1 That we can no otherwiſe pleaſe God, then by framing our liues according to his will. 14
2 That not Gods ſecret, but reuealed will muſt be the rule of our liues and actions. 15
3 Reaſons prouing that wee can no otherwiſe pleaſe God, then by doing his will. 15
4 Of the ſpeciall duties wherein a godly life chiefly conſiſteth. 18
CAP. IIII.
Of the forme and manner how all Chriſtian duties ought to be performed, namely, with feruency of deſire, a ſettled reſolution, and earneſt indeuour to pleaſe God in all things. 19
Sect. 1 That theſe deſires, reſolutions and indeuours are required of all thoſe who will ſerue and pleaſe God. 19
2 That all Euangelicall obedience conſiſteth chiefly in theſe deſires, reſolutions and indeuours. 20
3 That they muſt not be faint and weak, but feruent and earneſt. 21
4 That they muſt be intire and totall, both in reſpect of the ſubiect, and obiect. 22
5 That our deſires, reſolutions and indeuours muſt aime at the meanes, as well as at the end. 23
6 That they muſt not be lazie and idle, but diligent and painfull. 23
7 That they muſt not bee by fits and flaſhes, but conſtant and durable. 24
CAP. V.
Of ſauing knowledge, which is the firſt maine ground of a godly life. How neceſſary it is, and the cauſes of it. 25
Sect. 1 Of the maine grounds of a godly life. 25
2 That ſauing knowledge is the prime vertue, and mother grace, from which all others hauehave their beginning. 25
3 That ignorance eſtrangeth vsus from God, and the life of grace and glory. 27
4 That God is the chiefe Authour and efficient cauſe of ſauing knowledge. 28
5 Of the inſtrumentall cauſes of ſauing knowledge. 29
CAP. VI.
Of the obiect of ſauing knowledge, namely, God himſelfe and his attributes, his Word, and workes. 30
Sect. 1 That there is a God, and how we may know it. 30
2 Who this God is, and how he may be deſcribed. 30
3 Of Gods attributes, and how they are aſcribed vntounto God. 30
4 Of Gods primary attributes, and how they may be deſcribed. 31
5 Of Gods ſecondary attributes, and how they differ from thoſe ſhadowes of them which are in the creatures. 31
6 What Gods ſecondary attributes are, and how they may be deſcribed. 32
7 Of the perſons in Trinity. 33
8 Of the knowledge of Gods workes, and firſt, of his decree. 34
9 Of the execution of Gods decree in mans Creation, fall and miſery. 34
10 Of our recouery out of our miſery. 35
CAP. VII.
Of the quantity and quality of ſauing knowledge, and how neceſſary it is to a godly life. 36
Sect. 1 Of the quantity of knowledge, and the diuers degrees of it. 36
2 Of the quality of our knowledge, that it may be effectuall. 38
3 That this ſauing knowledge is neceſſary to a godly life. 38
4 Of the meanes of ſauing knowledge. 39
CAP. VIII.
Of a liuely and iuſtifying faith, which is the ſecond maine ground of a godly life. 40
Sect. 1 That without faith wee cannot performe any duty of a godly life. 40
2 That faith and a godly life are inſeparable companions. 41
3 That they deceiue themſelues, who diſ-ioyne faith from a godly life. 42
4 Of a generall faith. 43
5 Of iuſtifying faith, what it is, and what is required vntounto it. 43
6 Of the degrees of faith, and how they are wrought in vsus. 45
7 That the duties of a godly life hold a proportion with our faith, whether it be weake or ſtrong. 46
CAP. IX.
Of the meanes whereby wee may obtaine a liuely faith, and daily increaſe it, from the leaſt, to the higheſt degree. 47
Sect. 1 Of fiue ſpeciall meanes whereby we may obtaine a liuely faith. 47
2 Of the ſixth meanes. 48
3 Of the meanes whereby wee may attaine vntounto fulneſſe of perſwaſion. 49
4 Of that ſpeciall faith whereby we apply Chriſt for our ſanctification. 50
5 Of the meanes whereby wee may ſtrengthen our faith in the aſſurance of our ſanctification. 50
CAP. X.
Of the third ground of a godly life, which is a pure heart. 52
Sect. 1 Of a pure heart, what it is, and from whence it ariſeth. 52
2 That all true fruits of godlines ſpring from a pure heart. 52
3 That God chiefly deſireth the heart, aboue all other parts. 53
4 That God reſpecteth no duty, vnleſſe it proceed from a pure heart. 54
5 That all ſound repentance muſt begin at the heart. 55
6 Wherein pureneſſe of heart conſiſteth. 55
7 Of the cauſes of the hearts purity. 57
CAP. XI.
Of the ſignes of a pure heart, and of the meanes whereby wee may obtaine and preſerue it. 58
Sect. 1 Of the inward ſignes of a pure heart. 58
2 Of the outward ſignes of a pure heart. 59
3 That it is a good meanes of a pure heart, highly to eſteeme it. 59
4 Of the manifold euils which accompany a polluted heart. 61
5 That faith is a chiefe meanes of a pure heart. 61
6 Of the meanes to preſerue the purity of our hearts; the firſt whereof is, to watch ouer them. 62
7 The ſecond meanes is, to preſerue them from all ſinne. 63
8 The third meanes is, to auoyd the occaſions of ſinne. 64
9 The fourth meanes is, often to examine our hearts in the ſight of God. 64
10 The fifth meanes is, to be continually taken vp in holy exerciſes. 65
CAP. XII.
Of Conſcience in generall, the nature, properties and effects of it. 65
Sect. 1 That the nature of conſcience may partly be knowne by the name. 65
2 What conſcience is, being generally conſidered. 66
3 Of the diuers offices of conſcience. 67
4 That conſcience hath all its power and authority from God onelyonly. 68
CAP. XIII.
Of a good Conſcience, which is a maine ground of a godly life: what it is, and the cauſes of it. 69
Sect. 1 What a good conſcience is, and what is the efficient cauſe that worketh it in vsus. 69
2 Of the meritorious cauſe of a good conſcience. 69
3 Of the inſtrumentall cauſes. 70
4 That a good conſcience ſpringeth from a liuely faith. 71
CAP. XIIII.
Of the actions and effects of a good conſcience; of the peace which it truly ſpeaketh, and how it differeth from the falſe peace of ſecure worldlings. 72
Sect. 1 That a good conſcience ſpeaketh goodneſſe and peace onelyonly. 72
2 That it ſpeaketh peace according to the truth of Gods Word. 73
3 The differences betweene the peace of a good and bad conſcience; as firſt, that the peace of the wicked proceedeth from ignorance of their eſtate. 73
4 That the peace of a good conſcience proceedeth from ſpirituall life; of an euill, from ſenſeleſneſſe and deadneſſe. 74
5 That the peace of the wicked proceedeth from carnall ſecurity. 75
6 That the peace of an euill conſcience proceedeth from worldly imployments. 76
CAP. XV.
Of the good things which a good Conſcience witneſſeth to the faithfull. 77
Sect. 1 That it witneſſeth, firſt, pardon of ſinne, and reconciliation with God. 77
2 Secondly, it witneſſeth our ſanctification. 78
3 Thirdly, that we are in all eſtates bleſſed. 79
4 That a good conſcience maketh vsus cheerefull in Gods ſeruice. 79
CAP. XVI.
Of the ſignes and properties of a good conſcience. 81
Sect. 1 The firſt ſigne, and the cauſes of it. 81
2 The ſecond is taken from the manner of working it in vsus. 81
3 The third is the effects of it. 81
4 That it is knowne by the properties of it: and firſt, that it is pure and peaceable. 82
5 That it keepeth it ſelfe cleere before God and men. 82
6 That a good conſcience knoweth it ſelfe to be ſo. 83
7 That a good conſcience maketh vsus merry and cheerfull. 84
8 That it may bee knowne by the integrity and conſtancy of it. 85
CAP. XVII.
Of the meanes whereby wee may get a good conſcience, and preſerue it being gotten. 86
Sect. 1 The firſt meanes is, highly to eſteeme it. 86
2 The ſecond meanes, to know Gods reuealed will, and apply it for vſe. 87
3 The third meanes is a liuely faith. 88
4 The fourth meanes are the exerciſes of repentance. 89
5 Of the meanes whereby a good conſcience may be preſerued. 90
THE SECOND BOOKE of a godly life, containing the maine parts and principal duties of it, which wee ought generally to performe at all times, and vponupon all good occaſions.
CAP. I.
Of the maine duties wherein a godly life conſiſteth. 92
Sect. 1 That a godly life conſiſteth in doing all thoſe duties which God hath commanded. 92
2 Of that Euangelicall obedience wherin a godly life conſiſteth. 93
3 That this obedience muſt bee performed after an Euangelicall maner. 94
4 That we muſt ioyne in it the duties of piety, righteouſneſſe and ſobriety. 94
CAP. II.
Of piety, which is the ſumme of the firſt Table. 95
Sect. 1 Of piety, comprizing in it all the duties of Gods ſeruice. 95
2 3, 4, 5. Reaſons mouing vsus to imbrace piety, taken from the excellency▪ profit and neceſſity of it.
CAP. III.
Of our adhering and cleauing vntounto God, with full purpoſe and reſolution of our hearts. 99
Sect. 1 Of the ſumme of the firſt Commandement. 99
2 Of adhering vntounto God, what it is, and the neceſſity of it. 100
3 The properties of ſound reſolution; as firſt, that it muſt be vniuerſall. 101
4 The neceſſity of our adhering vntounto God, proued by diuers reaſons. 102
5 Of the meanes whereby we may confirme our reſolution of adhering vntounto God. 103
CAP. IIII.
Of truſt, affiance, and hope in God. 105
Sect. 1 Of affiance in God, and wherein it conſiſteth, and of the reaſons which may moue vsus vntounto it. 105
2 Of the meanes of affiance. 106
3 Of hope in God, what it is, and wherin it conſiſteth. 107
4 Of the meanes of Hope. 108
CAP. V.
Of the louelove of God, and diuers vertues which ſpring from it. 109.
Sect. 1 Of the louelove of God, what it is, and wherein it conſiſteth, and of the meaſure and meanes of it. 109
2 Of the zeale of Gods glory, what it is, and wherein it conſiſteth. 110
3 Of reioycing in God, what it is, and the meanes whereby wee may attaine vntounto it. 111
4 Of thankfulnes vntounto God, what is required vntounto it, and the meanes of it. 112
5 Of obedience vntounto God, what it is, and wherein it conſiſteth, and of the properties of true obedience. 113
6 Of the meanes of obedience, whereby we may be inabled to performe it. 114
7 Of paſſiue obedience, and patience in afflictions. 115
CAP. VI.
Of the feare of God, and humility which ariſeth from it, ioyned with his louelove. And of Gods external worſhip with the body. 116
Sect. 1 Of the feare of God, what it is, and the cauſes of it. 116
2 That this feare of God is commended vntounto vsus in the Scriptures, and of the profit of it. 117
3 Of the meanes of obtaining this feare of God. 118
4 Of humility, what it is, and the cauſes of it. 119
5 Of the excellency and vtility of humility. 120
6 Of the meanes whereby wee may attaine vntounto humility. 121
7 Of externall worſhip with our bodies. 122
CAP. VII.
Of the duties which are required in the ſecond Commandement; as prayer, hearing the Word, and adminiſtration of the Sacraments. 123
Sect. 1 Of the things generally required in the ſecond Commandement. 123
2 Of prayer and inuocation. 124
3 Of the duties of Gods Miniſters. 125
4 Of the duties of hearers, and firſt, ſuch as reſpect their preparation. 125
5 Of the duties required in hearing, and after we hauehave heard. 126
6 Of the adminiſtration of the Sacraments. 127
CAP. VIII.
Of the duties required in the third and fourth Commandements. 129
Sect. 1 Of the ſanctifying of Gods Name, and how it ought to be done. 129
2 Of the ſanctifying Gods Name in lawfull oathes. 130
3 Of the ſanctifying Gods Name, by making and performing our vowes. 131
4 Of the ſanctifying Gods Sabbath, and what is required vntounto it. 131
5 Of the ſpirituall ſanctification of the outward reſt. 132
CAP. IX.
Of the ſumme of the ſecond Table. 133
Sect. 1 Of the duties of righteouſneſſe towards our neighbours. 133
2 Of the dutie of ſobriety towards our ſelues. 134
3 Of the duties of charity. 135
4 Of the meanes and manner of working charity in vsus. 135
5 What charity is, and the properties of it. 136
6 Of the obiect of charity, which is our neighbours. 137
7 The manner of louing our neighbors, namely, as our ſelues. 138
8 That naturall ſelfe-louelove is not the rule of charity, but that which is holy and ſpirituall. 138
9 The properties of lawfull ſelfe-louelove. 139
10 That wee muſt louelove our neighbours, as Chriſt hath loued vsus. 139
CAP. X.
Of the reaſons which may mooue vsus to imbrace charity. 140
Sect. 1 Of the excellency of charity. 140
2 Of the profit of it, in reſpect of our neighbours. 141
3 Of the profit of it, in reſpect of our ſelues. 142
4 Of the neceſſity of charity. 142
CAP. XI.
Of the duties required in the fifth Commandement. 144
Sect. 1 Of the generall duties required in the fifth Commandement. 144
2 Of the duties of ſuperiours in excellencie, and of inferiours towards them. 144
3 Of the duties of ſuperiours in authority in generall, and of inferiours towards them. 146
4 Of the duties of ſuperiours and inferiours in the family; and firſt, of man and wife towards one another. 147
5 Of the duties of husband and wife towards the reſt of the family. 148
6 Of the duties of parents and children. 148
7 Of the duties of Maſters and ſeruants. 149
8 Of the duties of Miniſters and people. 149
9 Of the duties of Magiſtrates and ſubiects. 150
CAP. XII.
Of the duties required in the ſixth Commandement. 151
Sect. 1 Of the ſumme of this Commandement, and of anger and hatred. 151
2 Of the inward duties and vertues here required. 152
3 Of outward duties, reſpecting the perſon of our neighbours. 152
4 Of the duties which wee owe to our neighbours ſoule. 153
5 Of duties belonging to our owne perſons. 153
CAP. XIII.
Of the duties required in the ſeuenth, eighth, ninth, and tenth Commandements. 154
Sect. 1 Of the ſumme of the ſeuenth Commandement. The duties which it inioyneth, and vices which it forbiddeth. 154
2 The meanes of preſeruing chaſtity. 155
3 Of duties required in the right getting of our goods. 156
4 Of the duties reſpecting the right vſe of our goods. 157
5 Of the ninth Commandement, and of that truth which is required in it. 158
6 Of the preſeruation of our neighbours good name, and the meanes of it, reſpecting our inward diſpoſition. 158
7 Other duties reſpecting outward profeſſion. 159
8 Of the preſeruing our owne good name. 159
9 Of the tenth Commandement, and what is required in it, to wit, originall righteouſneſſe, and ſpirituall concupiſcence. 160
10 Of the Spirit luſting againſt the fleſh. 161
11 Of the meanes inabling vsus to the obedience of this Commandement. 161
THE THIRD BOOKE OF a godly life, contayning in it thoſe duties which are required in our daily exerciſe, both generally at all times of the day, and vponupon all occaſions, and ſpecially in the ſeuerall parts of it. p. 163
CAP. I.
That the duties of a godly life ought daily and conſtantly to be performed, and not by fits and ſpurts onelyonly. 163
Sect. 1. That we muſt performe theſe duties daily and conſtantly vponupon eueryevery fit occaſion. 163
2 That no time is exempted from Gods ſeruice, prooued by Scripture. 164
3 Diuers reaſons proouing the neceſſity of the daily exerciſe of a godly life. 166
4 Of the many great dangers which follow the neglect of this daily exerciſe. 167
5 Another reaſon taken from our calling and profeſſion. 168
6 The laſt reaſon taken from the vncertainty of our liues. 169
CAP. II.
Of ſome ſpeciall duties of a godly life, which are to be performed in our daily exerciſe. And firſt, of the renewing of our repentance. 169
Sect. 1. Of the daily renewing of our Couenant with God, by the renewing of our faith and repentance. 169
2 Of the daily renewing of our repentance, & what is required vntounto it. 171
3 Of the daily confeſſion of our ſins, and iudging our ſelues for them. 173
4 Of our deteſtation and hatred of ſinne. 174
5 Of the benefits which would ariſe of this exerciſe of renewing our repentance. 175
CAP. III.
Of our daily exerciſe in renewing our faith. 176
Sect. 1. That the daily renewing of our faith is very profitable & neceſſary. 176
2 What this renewing of our faith is, and the meanes wherby we may be inabled to doe it, which conſiſt firſt, in diuers Meditations. 177
3 Of the ſecond ſort of meanes which conſiſt in the performance of diuers actions. 179
4 Of the manifold benefits which would ariſe from the daily renewing of our faith. 179
5 Of diuers other benefits which follow the daily renewing of our faith. 181
CAP. IIII.
Of our daily exerciſe in ſeeking God, and of the things which are required vntounto it. 183
Sect. 1. That our ſeeking God daily, is a neceſſary duty. 183
2 What it is to ſeeke God. 185
3 What is required to our ſeeking God. Firſt, that we daily labour more perfectly to know and remember him. 185
4 The ſecond thing is, that we adhere vntounto him with our harts & affections. 186
5 That we muſt cleaue vntounto God by feruent louelove. 187
6 That we muſt labour daily to hauehave our communion with God increaſed. 188
7 That vntounto the ſeeking of God is required, that wee daily renew our repentance. 190
8 That wee muſt ſeeke to hauehave and hold Gods grace and fauour in Ieſus Chriſt. 188
CAP. V.
Of the right maner of ſeeking God, ſo as we may be ſure to finde him; and of the benefits which ariſe from it. 189
Sect. 1. That we muſt ſeek God firſt and principally, ſeaſonably & cōſtantly. 189
2 That wee muſt ſeeke God in Ieſus Chriſt, ſincerely, zealouſly, and with all diligence. 193
3 Of the fruits and benefits which we inioy by our daily ſeeking God. 194
4 Of the euils which follow the neglect of ſeeking God. 195
CAP. VI.
Of the Chriſtian armour which we muſt put on daily, and of the benefits which wee ſhall reape thereby. 196
Sect. 1. Of the ſeuerall parts of the Chriſtian Armour. 196
2 That the putting on of the Chriſtian Armour is very neceſſary. 198
3 Of the manifold benefits which ariſe from being thus armed. 198
4 That eueryevery ſeuerall part of Armour bringeth ſpeciall profit. 199
CAP. VII.
Of the fourth mayne dutie, which is, to arme our ſelues againſt all ſin, and to deuote our ſelues wholly to Gods ſeruice. 200
Sect. 1. That wee muſt neceſſarily arme our ſelues againſt all ſinne, and the reaſons of it. 200
2 Of the meanes to worke in our hearts a true hatred of ſinne. 202
3 Of the meanes whereby we may bee ſtrengthened againſt ſinne. 203
4 That we muſt imbrace all vertues and Chriſtian duties. 204
CAP. VIII.
Of the fifth and ſixth daily duties, which are to conforme our ſelues to Gods Law, and to ſubmit our ſelues to his good pleaſure. 205
Sect. 1. That wee muſt conforme our thoughts, words, and actions, according to Gods Law. 205
2 Of the right ordering of our tongues, and the meanes of it. 205
3 Of the right ordering of our workes and actions. 206
4 Of the ſixth mayne duty, which is to ſubmit our ſelues to Gods good pleaſure in all things. 207
CAP. IX.
Of the laſt maine duty of the daily exerciſe, which is Prayer. 208
Sect. 1. That wee muſt pray daily and continually. 208
2 Of ordinary prayers at ſet times, and how often to be performed. 209
3 Of extraordinary prayers vponupon eueryevery good occaſion. 210
4 Diuers motiues vntounto the daily exerciſe of prayer. 211
CAP. X.
Of the daily exerciſe of thankeſgiuing, and how it ought to be performed. 212
Sect. 1. What things are required in the duty of thankſgiuing. 212
2 That we muſt giuegive thanks in all things. 213
3 That we muſt giuegive thanks at all times. 213
4 Reaſons which may mooue vsus to daily thankſgiuing. 214
5 Of the meanes whereby we may bee ſtirred vp to thankefulneſſe. 215
CAP. XII.
Of the duties of the daily exerciſe in eueryevery ſeuerall part of the day. And firſt, of awaking with God by Prayer and Meditation. 216
Sect. 1. Of lifting vp our hearts vntounto God as ſoone as we awake, that wee may offer vntounto him our firſt ſeruice. 216
2 Of lifting vp our hearts by ſome ſhort prayers. 217
3 Of the ſubiect matter of our Morning Meditations. 218
4 That in our firſt Meditations, wee muſt renew our faith and repentance. 219
5 Of the manifold benefits which will ariſe from theſe religious Morning exerciſes. 220
CAP. XIII▪
Of prayer in the Morning, how profitable it is and neceſſary, and of our preparation vntounto it. 221
Sect. 1. Of the fruit and profit of prayer. 221
2 Their obiection anſwered, who pretend want of leaſure to pray. 222
3 That before we pray, we muſt vſe preparation, and what is required vntounto it. 223
CAP. XIII… ▪
Of ſuch things as are required as eſſentiall vntounto prayer. 225
Sect. 1. That we muſt pray in truth, with attention, and not with wandring thoughts. 225
2 The meanes hereof. 226
3 That wee muſt pray with our vnderſtandings. 227
4 That wee muſt pray in faith. 228
5 That we muſt pray in humility, with reuerence and feruency. 229
CAP. XV.
Of the circumſtances of Prayer, their quantity and quality. 230
Sect. 1. Of our geſture and voyce in prayer. 230
2 That we muſt not affect prolixity and ſuperfluity of words in prayer. 231
3 Of the quality of our prayers. 233
CAP. XVI.
Of the forme and methode which are to bee vſed in our Prayers. 233
Sect. 1. Of formes of prayer ſet downe by others. 233
2 Of formes of prayer inuented by our ſelues. 234
3 Of conceiued prayers, and how farre foorth they are commendable. 235
4 What methode is beſt in diſpoſing the parts of our prayers. 236
5 What duties are to be performed after we hauehave prayed. 237
6 Of the time in the Morning when wee are to vſe our priuate Prayer. 238
7 Of prayer with the reſt of the family. 239
CAP. XVII.
Of ſinging Pſalmes, and reading the Scriptures in the family. 240
Sect. 1. That ſinging of Pſalmes is inioyned in the Scriptures, and practiſed by the faithfull. 240
2 How we may ſing Pſalmes in a right manner. 241
3 That wee muſt diligently reade the Scriptures, and the great profit of this exerciſe. 242
CAP. XVIII.
Of our daily exerciſe in the duties of our callings, and of diuers vertues required in them. 243
Sect. 1. That wee muſt make choyce of lawfull callings. 243
2 That we muſt be regenerate, before we can ſerue God acceptably in our callings. 244
3 That wee muſt performe the duties of our callings in faith. 245
4 That the duties of our callings muſt proceed from louelove. 245
5 That they muſt bee directed to right ends. 246
6 That they muſt bee done in a right maner, and firſt, with heauenly minds. 246
7 That they muſt bee ſanctified by the Word and Prayer. 247
8 Of the vertues which muſt accompany vsus in the duties of our callings. 248
CAP. XIX.
Diuers reaſons to perſwade vsus to bee faithfull and diligent in the duties of our callings. 251
Sect. 1. That God hath ordained man to labour, and in many places of the Scriptures hath ſtrictly inioyned it. 251
2 That it is Gods Ordinance that wee ſhould labour in our callings. 252
3 That God bleſſeth the diligent with many benefits. 253
4 That the Lord abhorreth idleneſſe and negligence, and ſeuerely puniſheth it. 254
5 That idleneſſe is the cauſe of innumerable ſinnes. 254
6 That it maketh vsus liable to many puniſhments. 256
CAP. XX.
That all perſons without exceptions are bound by Gods Law, to walke painefully in the workes of their callings. 257
Sect. 1. That the former reaſons bind all men to painefulneſſe in their callings. 257
2 That Gentlemen hauehave no priuiledge to bee idle, and how they ſhould ſpend their time. 258
3 That the poorer ſort muſt labour painefully in their callings, notwithſtanding that the badneſſe of their Trades afford ſmall earnings. 259
4 That the impotent are not bound to labour, but may with good conſcience take their eaſe. 261
CAP. XX… ▪
Of Recreations, which are not onelyonly lawfull, but alſo profitable and neceſſary, if we bee exerciſed in them according to Gods Word. 262
Sect. 1. That we cannot continually bee exerciſed in the workes of our callings. 262
2 What lawfull recreation is, and that it may be vſed with good conſcience. 263
3 That recreations are profitable and neceſſary. 264
4 That we muſt make choyce of ſuch recreations as are lawfull, and what they are. 265
5 Whether it be lawful to play at games which ſtand vponupon hazard and chance. 267
CAP. XXII.
Of diuers cautions which ought to be vſed in all our recreations. 269
Sect. 1. That recreations muſt bee vſed with moderation, in reſpect of our louelove of them. 269
2 That moderation muſt be vſed, in reſpect of time. 270
3 That recreations muſt bee ſo vſed, as that they may refreſh the body, not pamper the fleſh. 271
4 That in our recreation we muſt auoyd giuing of offence. 271
5 That all due circumſtances muſt bee obſerued in our recreations, and what they are. 272
6 That we muſt, in our recreations, conſort our ſelues with good company. 274
7 That we muſt take heed leſt our recreations ſteale our hearts from God. 274
CAP. XXII… ▪
The laſt caution is, that our recreation be a liberall exerciſe, and not for ſordid gaine. 273
Sect. 1 That greedy gaming for gaine is vnlawfull. 275
2 Whether it bee ſimply vnlawfull to game for money. 275
3 A ſerious admonition, that none abuſe their liberty in recreations of this nature. 278
CAP. XXIII… ▪
Of the duties which ought daily to bee performed at our meales. 279
Sect. 1 That wee ought to take ſpeciall care of our carriage at our meales. 279
2 Of the duties which ought to be performed before we eate; and firſt, that we muſt ſanctifie the creatures to our vſe by the Word. 280
3 That wee ought to ſanctifie the creatures to our vſe, by prayer and thankſgiuing. 280
4 Of ſome ſhort meditations before we eate. 282
5 Of the duties which ought to be performed at our meales; and firſt, that we vſe the creatures with temperance and ſobriety. 283
6 That we muſt be temperate and moderate, in reſpect of the quantity of our meats and drinkes. 284
7 Other directions concerning the quantities of our meates and drinkes. 286
8 Of moderation, in reſpect of the quality of our meates. 287
CAP. XXV.
Of diuers other duties which wee ought to performe at our meales. 289
Sect. 1 That wee ought to bee content with our allowance. 289
2 That we may be merry at meales. 289
3 Of our conferences and diſcourſes at our tables. 291
4 Of the choyce of our company at our meales. 292
5 Of the manifold abuſes of our feaſting one another. 293
6 That after our meales wee muſt ſhew our thankfulneſſe by praiſing God. 295
CAP. XXVI.
Of the duties which wee ought to performe, when we are ſolitary and alone. 297
Sect. 1 That when wee are alone, wee muſt not be idle and vnfruitfull. 297
2 That wee muſt ſpend our ſolitary houres in good exerciſes, ſhunning vaine thoughts, and entertaining Chriſtian meditations. 297
3 That in our ſolitarineſſe wee muſt auoyd carnall concupiſcence, and the pleaſures of ſinne. 299
4 That it is pleaſant, profitable and neceſſary, to ſpend our ſolitary houres in Chriſtian duties. 300
CAP. XXVI….
What duties we ought to performe when we are in company. 302
Sect. 1 That ciuill conuerſation excelleth ſolitarineſſe. 302
2 That we muſt not raſhly ruſh into all companies, but with good choyce and aduice, and alſo with due preparation. 304
3 That our whole carriage and conuerſation muſt bee religious, ciuill and honeſt. 306
4 How wee muſt carry our ſelues in the company of thoſe which are worldly and wicked. 307
CAP. XXVII….
Of Chriſtian conferences, which we muſt vſe when we are in company, for our mutuall good. 309
Sect. 1. That our ſpeeches muſt bee gracious and prudent. 309
2 Of Chriſtian admonition, and what is required to the right performance of this duty. 310
3 That wee may lawfully conferre of morall and ciuill things. 314
4 That we muſt carefully auoyd all corrupt communication. 314
CAP. XX….
Of Chriſtian prudence, which we are to vſe in all our conferences. 315
Sect. 1. How wee muſt carry our ſelues when we conferre with thoſe that excell vsus in gifts. 315
2 How we muſt behaue our ſelues when as we conferre with ciuill worldlings. 317
3 How we muſt deale with them that are openly prophane. 318
4 Of the manifold and dangerous abuſes of conferences in theſe dayes; and the cauſes of them. 319
5 That Chriſtian and religious conferences are exceeding profitable. 320
CAP. XXX.
Of thoſe duties which concerne our workes and actions one with another, both out of contracts, and in our buying and ſelling. 321
Sect. 1. That wee muſt labour both to doe, and receiue all the good we can, in our dealings with others. 321
2 That wee muſt take all occaſions of gaining others to Chriſt. 322
3 That in all our dealings and bargainings we muſt carry our ſelues vprightly and honeſtly. 323
4 That wee muſt ſell onelyonly things ſaleable. 324
5 That wee muſt ſet and ſell our wares at an equall price. 325
6 That in buying and ſelling, all fraud and deceit muſt be auoyded. 326
7 How to auoyd the faults commonly committed betweene buyers and ſellers. 327
CAP. XXXI.
That Gouernours of Families ought to traine vp thoſe who are vnderunder their charge, in the duties of godlineſſe. 328
Sect. 1. That it is not enough for Gouernours to bee themſelues religious; but they muſt alſo traine vp thoſe who are vnderunder their gouernment, in the knowledge and practice of Religion. 328
2 Diuers reaſons to mooue Gouernours vntounto this duty. 329
3 That it is the duty of Houſeholders to catechize their family, and of the cauſes why it is neglected. 332
4 Reaſons which may mooue all Gouernours to the duty of catechizing. Firſt, becauſe it is Gods Commandement. 333
5 Other reaſons inforcing the former duty. 334
6 Examples of the faithfull who hauehave catechized their Family. 335
7 Reaſons moouing children to ſubmit themſelues to be catechized. 335
8 Reaſons mouing thoſe which are of yeeres, to ſubmit themſelues to bee catechized, if they bee ignorant. 336
9 Of the great profit of this exerciſe of catechizing. 338
CAP. XXXII.
Of Family duties which reſpect wiſe and religious gouernment. 340
Sect. 1. What things are required to wiſe gouernment. 340
2 Of Iuſtice and louelove required vntounto gouernment. 341
CAP. XXXIII.
How we ought to behaue our ſelues in the eſtate of proſperity, that we may thriue in all ſpirituall graces. 343
Sect. 1. What proſperity is, and how apt wee are to abuſe it through our corruption. 343
2 That wee muſt bee diligent, leſt our proſperity become vntounto vsus an occaſion of ſinne; and how it is to bee done. 344
3 That wee muſt not forget God, nor be vnthankfull, and take heede that his bleſſings doe not draw our hearts from him. 344
4 That we muſt beware of pride, ſecurity and hardneſſe of heart, licentiouſneſſe, and contempt of ſpirituall and heauenly things. 346
5 That wee muſt not bee ſlothfull in Gods ſeruice, and take heed that worldly things become not ſnares and thornes vntounto vsus. 348
6 That wee muſt carefully arme our ſelues againſt ſuch tentations as are incident to this eſtate. 349
7 That we muſt not too highly eſteeme, nor too earneſtly affect and ſeeke after earthly things. 349
CAP. XXXIII… ▪
How wee may rightly vſe the eſtate of proſperity, ſo as it may be an helpe vntounto godlineſſe. 350
Sect. 1. That wee muſt vſe Gods temporall bleſſings, as helpes vntounto ſauing graces, and ſpirituall duties. 350
2 That we muſt vſe them for the common good of the Church and Common-wealth. 352
3 Three other cautions to be obſerued, for the right vſe of proſperity. 353
4 Of the right vſe of apparell. 354
CAP. XXXV.
How we ought to behaue our ſelues in the eſtate of affliction, ſo as we may profit thereby in all ſauing graces. 356
Sect. 1. What afflictions are, and the diuers kinds of them. 356
2 Of our preparation before the approch of afflictions. 356
3 Of patience in afflictions, and what is required vntounto it. 358
4 Of the meanes and motiues vntounto patience. Firſt, becauſe God is the Authour of all our afflictions. 359
5 That our afflictions tend to the ſetting forth of Gods glory. 360
6 That afflictions are meanes of our owne good. 361
7 That the world is a place deſtinated to afflictions. 362
8 That the faithfull in all ages hauehave beene partakers of the like, or greater afflictions with vsus. 362
9 Comforts ariſing from the good iſſue of all our afflictions. 363
CAP. XXXV….
Of thoſe Chriſtian duties which are to be performed in the euening and night. 364
Sect. 1. That the euening muſt not bee ſpent in ſloth and idleneſſe. 364
2 Of euening exerciſes; as meditation, reading, and Chriſtian conferences. 364
3 Duties to be done at our going to bed. 365
4 Of examination how wee hauehave ſpent the day paſt. 366
5 Meditations at our lying downe. 368
6 Duties to bee done in the night. As firſt, prayer and thankeſgiuing. 369
7 Speciall meditations fit for the night. 371
8 That the profit of theſe duties will farre exceed the paines. 372
CAP. XXXVII.
That wee muſt moderate our ſleepe, and not ſpend too much time in ſloth and ſluggiſhneſſe. 373
Sect. 1. That this moderation is commanded in the Scriptures, and the contrary ſloth, condemned. 373
2 The manifold euils which exceſſiue ſleepe bringeth. 375
3 That ſloth is diſpleaſing to God, and how it may be auoyded. 376
CAP. XXXVII… ▪
Of duties to bee performed on the Lords Day for the ſanctifying of it. 377
Sect. 1. Of our preparation before the Sabbath. 377
2 Of generall preparation in the whole weeke. 378
3 Of ſpeciall preparation the Euening before the Sabbath. 378
4 That in our preparation we muſt purge our ſelues from all ſinfull corruptions. 379
5 That wee muſt vſe all helpes which may further vsus in the ſanctifying of the Lords Day. 380
CAP. XXXIX.
That the whole Lords Day muſt be conſecrated vntounto him. Firſt by reſting on it from all labour, and from ſinne. 381
Sect. 1. That the whole Day muſt bee ſpent in religious exerciſes. 381
2 That wee muſt reſt from our owne workes on the Lords Day. 383
3 That wee muſt abſtaine from carnall recreations. 384
4 That wee muſt reſt from ſinne of all kinds. 386
5 That wee muſt not thinke our owne thoughts on the Lords Day. 387
6 That we muſt not do the Lords works after our owne manner. 387
CAP. XL.
That we muſt ſanctifie our reſt, by conſecrating it to the duties of Gods ſeruice. 388
Sect. 1. That wee muſt riſe betimes on the Lords Day. 388
2 Of Meditations fit to bee vſed on the Lords Day. 389
3 Of Prayer, Thankſgiuing, and reading priuately. 390
4 Duties to be performed when wee are going to Church. 392
CAP. XLI.
Of publike duties to be performed on the Lords Day. 393
Sect. 1. That wee muſt ioyne with the Congregation in all duties of Gods ſeruice. 393
2 Of hearing the Word, and what is required vntounto it. 393
3 That we muſt ſtay in the Church from the beginning to the end of the Sermon. 395
4 Of our duty in receiuing the Lords Supper. 396
5 Of our duty when Baptiſme is adminiſtred. 396
CAP. XLII.
Of ſuch duties as are to be performed on the Lords Day, after our comming from the Church. 398
Sect. 1. That we muſt meditate vponupon that which we hauehave heard. 398
2. 3. Of Family exerciſes on the Lords Day. 398
4. That the Euening muſt bee ſpent in religious exerciſes. 400
5 That all our ſeruice muſt bee done in integrity and ſincerity of heart. 401
THE FOVRTH BOOKE of a godly life, containing in it the properties of it, and all the duties required vntounto it. p. 403
CAP. I.
That all duties vniuerſally of godly life, muſt be performed in ſincerity and integrity of heart. 403
Sect. 1. That vniuerſall and totall obedience is required. 403
2 Of integrity and ſincerity. 404
3 Reaſons moouing vsus to imbrace integrity and ſincerity, firſt, becauſe the Lord chiefly loueth and delighteth in it. 404
4 That our imperfect obedience is accepted of God, if it be done in ſincerity and integrity. 405
5 That the ſoundneſſe of all graces and holy duties conſiſteth in the ſincerity of them. 406
6 Of the rewards of ſincerity and integrity. 406
CAP. II.
Of the meanes whereby wee may attaine vntounto ſincerity and integrity. 407
Sect. 1. The firſt meanes to ſet God before our eyes, and our ſelues in his preſence. 407
2 The ſecond, to meditate on the excellency, profit, and neceſſity of it. 408
3 The third meanes, to conſider that if wee be ſincere, we ſhall want nothing. 408
4 The fourth meanes, is to watch ouer our hearts. 409
CAP. III.
That we muſt ioyne with inward integrity, the ſeruice of the body and outward man. 410
Sect. 1. That God requireth outward ſeruice to be ioyned with the inward. 410
2 Reaſons moouing vsus to performe outward ſeruice. 411
3 That Chriſtian Apologie and outward ſeruice is required. 412
4 That we muſt practiſe what we know in our workes and actions. 413
5 Diuers reaſons perſwading vsus to good workes. 414
6 Of the rewards of good workes. 415
CAP. IIII.
That we muſt performe vniuerſall obedience to the whole will of God. 416
Sect. 1. That only vniuerſall obedience to Gods will and Word is accepted of him. 416
2 That we muſt performe obedience to both Tables ioyntly, and to the Goſpel as well as the Law. 417
3 Reaſons perſwading vsus to vniuerſall obedience, firſt, becauſe God requireth it. 418
4 That our obedience cannot be ſincere vnleſſe it be vniuerſall. 418
5 That without totall obedience wee cannot attaine to heauenly happineſſe. 419
CAP. V.
Of the properties of Chriſtian and holy duties, which reſpect their cauſes efficient and finall. 420
Sect. 1. That all duties ſhould ſpring from the louelove of God. 420
2 That wee muſt propound Gods will, and our obedience thereunto in all duties. 420
3 That all true ſeruice is done in obedience to Gods will. 421
CAP. VI.
Of thoſe properties which reſpect our hearts and affections. 422
Sect. 1. That wee muſt performe all duties of a godly life with cheerefulneſſe. 422
2 Reaſons which may mooue vsus to this cheerefulneſſe. 423
3 That wee muſt ſerue God in all holy duties zealouſly and deuoutly. 424
CAP. VII.
Of the properties which reſpect the whole man; and firſt, diligence in all duties of Gods ſeruice. 426
Sect. 1. That this diligence muſt be vſed in all good duties, and about the meanes of them. 426
2 Diuers reaſons which may mooue vsus to this diligence. 428
3 Of the rewards promiſed to the diligent. 429
4 That this diligence is moſt neceſſary. 429
5 Of the vnwearied diligence of worldlings in purſuing worldly things. 432
CAP. VIII.
Of conſtancie in all the duties of godlineſſe, without remiſſion or intermiſſion. 434
Sect. 1. 2. That all thoſe that are ſincere, are alſo conſtant in the duties of a godly life. 434
3 A complaint of mens vnconſtancie in performing the duties of a godly life. 436
4 That conſtancie is required in Gods Word. 437
CAP. IX.
Reaſons moouing to conſtancy, and the meanes of it. 438
Sect. 1. That conſtancy is an inſeparable companion of integrity. 438
2 Of the manifold euils which accompany inconſtancie in good duties. 439
3 Of the meanes of conſtancy in good duties. 441
CAP. X.
Of our perſeuerance in all Chriſtian duties of a godly life. 443
Sect. 1. That we muſt perſeuere, both in profeſſion and practice of godlineſſe. 443
2 Of the meanes of perſeuerance. 443
3 That vnleſſe we perſeuere, we cannot be accepted of God. 445
4 That Prayer is a ſpeciall meanes of perſeuerance. 446
THE FIFTH BOOKE of a godly life, contayning in it the helpes and meanes which inable vsus vntounto it. p. 448
CAP. I.
Of the rules of a godly life, whereby wee may bee directed in the right performance of all Chriſtian duties. And firſt, of ſuch rules as reſpect the cauſes of it, both principall and ſubordinate. 448
Sect. 1. Of the helpes inabling vsus to leade a godly life. 448
2 The firſt rule is, that wee make God the ſupreme end of all Chriſtian duties, and wholly deny our ſelues in them. 449
3 The ſecond rule reſpecteth our Sauiour Chriſt, namely, that we ayme at him, as the mayne ſcope of all our actions. 450
4 The third rule, reſpecting the Spirit of God dwelling in vsus. 451
5 The rules reſpecting ſubordinate cauſes, the firſt whereof is, that wee muſt often renew the Couenant betweene God and vsus. 452
6 The 2. rule is, that we muſt take care to approue our wayes vntounto God and our own cōſciences, & then vntounto men. 454
7 The third rule is, that wee muſt performe all good duties with a quiet and peaceable mind. 455
8 The fourth rule is, that all our duties muſt ariſe from the fundamentall graces of a godly life. 457
9 The fifth rule is, that we muſt chiefly eſteeme, chuſe, and affect the duties of godlineſſe, according to their worth and excellency. 458
10 The ſixth rule is, that we muſt vſe all helpes and meanes which may inable vsus vntounto godlineſſe. 459
CAP. II.
Of the rules of a godly life, which reſpect the circumſtances of it. 460
Sect. 1. The firſt rule, reſpecting the circumſtances of a godly life is, that we muſt make precious account of our time which God hath allotted vsus for his ſeruice. 460
2 The ſecond rule is, that wee muſt not ſtay for occaſions of Chriſtian duties, but ſeeke for them before they offer themſelues. 461
3 The third is, that wee muſt ſet our ſelues moſt ſeriouſly about Chriſtian duties, when wee finde our ſelues beſt prepared and fitted for them. 462
4 The laſt rule is, that we muſt obſerue an order in doing theſe duties, and auoyd confuſion. 463
CAP. III.
Of the rules of a godly life, reſpecting the matter, forme, and ſubſtance of it. 464
Sect. 1. The firſt rule is, that we aſpire vntounto perfection by degrees. 464
2 Of theſe degrees by which wee muſt aſpire vntounto perfection. 465
3 The ſecond rule is, that wee fit our burthen according to our ſtrength. 467
4 That wee muſt exerciſe our ſelues in the duties of a godly life, according to the meaſure of grace receiued. 469
5 That they who vndertake matters aboue their ſtrength, cannot doe them in ſincerity, but in ſhew onelyonly. 469
6 The third rule is, that wee muſt not vndertake too many things at once. 470
7 The fourth rule is, that wee muſt not buſie our ſelues in other mens matters. 471
8 The fifth rule is, that we muſt take heed leſt daily vſe of Chriſtian duties doe make vsus cold and formal in them. 472
9 The ſixth rule is, that wee muſt preſerue our zeale and deuotion in their full ſtrength, and not ſuffer them to decline or waxe cold. 472
CAP. IIII.
Of the laſt rule of a godly life, which is, that we muſt not content our ſelues with a ſmall meaſure of grace, but labour to grow vntounto perfection. 474
Sect. 1. That the Scriptures require this growth in grace, from the leaſt degrees to the greateſt. 474
2 Reaſons mouing vsus to aſpire vntounto perfection. 476
3 That except wee grow in grace, wee cannot hauehave any ſound comfort in our eſtate. 477
4 That if wee deſire to grow in grace, wee muſt carefully vſe the meanes which may further vsus in it; and what they be. 478
CAP. V.
Of the meanes whereby wee may be inabled to leade a godly life; And firſt, of the Miniſtery of the Word. 479
Sect. 1. That if wee will leade a godly life, wee muſt vſe the meanes inabling vsus vntounto it. 479
2 The Miniſtery of the Word is a chiefe meanes of our ſpirituall life. 480
3 That it is the ordinary meanes of our new birth, and of working Gods graces in vsus. 482
4 What is required in the Miniſter, that by his preaching hee may further the people in the duties of godlineſſe. 484
5 That the Word muſt bee preached powerfully and plainely. 484
6 Of the duties of the people, reſpecting the Miniſters of the Word. 486
CAP. VI.
Of the duties of the people in hearing of the Word; and firſt, in their preparation. 488
Sect. 1. That wee muſt vſe preparation before the hearing of the Word; and wherein it conſiſteth. 488
2 Of duties to bee performed in hearing the Word. 490
3 Of duties to bee performed after hearing. 490
CAP. VII.
Of the ſecond publike meanes of a godly life, which is the adminiſtration of the Sacraments. 492
Sect. 1. That the Sacraments further vsus much in a godly life, as they are ſeales of the Couenant. 492
2 That the Sacraments further vsus in godlineſſe, as they are teſtifications of our ſeruice to God. 493
3 That the Sacrament of Baptiſme furthereth vsus in godlineſſe, as wee are thereby ingrafted into Chriſt. 494
4 Secondly, as it is the Sacrament of our new birth. 495
5 Thirdly, as it is our reſtipulation in the Couenant of grace. 496
6 That the Lords Supper furthereth vsus in Chriſtian duties; firſt, becauſe thereby our communion with Chriſt is confirmed; and ſecondly, our faith ſtrengthened. 496
7 Thirdly, becauſe it is the ſpirituall food of our ſoules. 497
8 Fourthly, becauſe we doe it in remembrance of Chriſt. 498
9 Fifthly, becauſe thereby wee are occaſioned to renew our Couenant with God. 499
CAP. VIII.
Of the third publike meanes of a godly life, which is Prayer. 500
Sect. 1, 2. That Prayer is Gods Ordinance to obtaine his gifts and graces. 500
3 That publike Prayer is moſt effectuall for the obtaining of all Gods graces. 502
CAP. IX.
Of the priuate meanes of a godly life; and firſt, of Chriſtian watchfulneſſe. 505
Sect. 1. That we muſt not reſt vponupon the publike meanes onelyonly, but vſe the priuate alſo. 505
2. 3. That Chriſtian watchfulneſſe, is not a bodily, but a ſpirituall exerciſe. 506
4 What Chriſtian watchfulneſſe is. 508
5 That this watch muſt bee kept in all things. 508
6 That we muſt watch ouer all the powers and parts of our ſoules and bodies. 509
7 That we muſt chiefly watch ouer our hearts. 511
8 That we muſt chiefly clenſe and keepe our hearts from thoſe corruptions which are moſt dangerous. 512
CAP. X.
Of Chriſtian watchfulneſſe ouer our ſenſes, tongues, and actions. 515
Sect. 1. How wee muſt watch ouer our ſenſes. 515
2 How we muſt watch ouer our tongues. 516
3 That this watch conſiſteth in the right ordering of them. 517
4 How we muſt watch ouer our workes and actions. 519
CAP. XI.
Of the ends at which we muſt ayme in our Chriſtian watch. 520
Sect. 1. Of three ſpeciall ends of our Chriſtian watch. 520
2 That wee muſt watch ouer our ſelues, that wee be not circumuented by our ſpirituall enemies. 521
3 That we muſt keepe this watch in all places, and at all times. 522
4 That wee muſt watch alſo ouer our brethren. 523
CAP. XII.
Of the reaſons whereby wee may bee perſwaded to keepe this Chriſtian watch. 523
Sect. 1. That this watch is neceſſary, becauſe God requireth it. 523
2 Other reaſons, ſhewing the neceſſity of keeping this watch. 524
3 That this watch is moſt profitable, becauſe it helpeth vsus much to the leading of a godly life. 525
4 That by this watch wee are made conſtant in the courſe of Chriſtianity. 528
CAP. XIII.
Of the meanes wherby we may be inabled to keepe the Chriſtian watch. 529
Sect. 1. The firſt meanes, is temperance and ſobriety, and the ſecond, the feare of God. 529
2 The third meanes, is the remembrance of Gods Iudgements. 530
3 Of the fourth meanes, which is to remember the day of death. 531
4 Of the laſt meanes, which is to meditate on the day of Iudgement. 532
CAP. XIIII.
Of Meditation, which is the ſecond priuate meanes of a godly life, what it is, and the cauſes thereof, with the reaſons which may mooue vsus to this holy exerciſe. 533
Sect. 1. Of the order, and reaſon why it is heere handled. 533
2 Of Meditation, what it is, and how it differeth from other exerciſes of the mind. 533
3 Of the efficient cauſe, or perſon who is to meditate. 535
4 That Meditation is an exerciſe that belongeth to all Chriſtians. 536
5 Reaſons moouing vsus to performe this duty; the firſt whereof is taken from the excellency of it. 537
6 The ſecond, taken from the profit of it. 537
7 The third, taken from the neceſſity of it. 538
CAP. XV.
Of the kinds of Meditation, and firſt, of that which is extraordinary. 539
Sect. 1. What extraordinary Meditation is, and the ſubiect of it. 539
2 What ordinary Meditation is, and the ſubiect of it. 541
3 Of the difficulty of this religious exerciſe. 542
4 The ſingular profit of ordinary Meditation. 543
5 That this Meditation is effectuall for the ſanctifying of the heart. 544
6 That the exerciſe of Meditation is very neceſſary. 546
CAP. XVI.
Anſweres to diuers obiections made againſt the exerciſe of Meditation. 547
Sect. 1. The obiection of difficulty acknowledged and anſwered. 547
2 The obiection of naturall wants and weakeneſſes in performing this exerciſe, anſwered. 548
3 Their obiection anſwered, who pretend want of matter to meditate vponupon. 548
4 Other hindrances remooued. 549
5 That company and worldly buſineſſe ſhould not hinder vsus from this exerciſe of Meditation. 549
CAP. XVII.
Of the circumſtances of Meditation, as the place, time, and geſture of the body. 552
Sect. 1. Of the place of Meditation. 552
2 Of the time; that it muſt not be continuall, but as we get fitteſt opportunity. 552
3 Of the fitteſt time for Meditation. 553
4 Of conſtancy in this exerciſe. 554
5 Of the diſpoſition and geſture of the body. 555
CAP. XVIII.
Of our entrance into Meditation by due preparation. 557
Sect. 1. That this preparation is neceſſary, and wherein it conſiſteth. 557
2 That wee muſt chiefly prepare our hearts and affections. 558
3 Of the ſubiect matter of Meditation, and what choyce ought to bee made of it. 559
4. to the tenth, That the Scriptures themſelues, and all points of Chriſtian Religion contained in them, are fit matter of Meditation. 560
10. Rules directing vsus in the choyce of the fitteſt matter for our Meditations. 569
11 That we muſt conclude our preparation with Prayer. 570
CAP. XIX.
Of our progreſſe and proceeding in the exerciſe of Meditation. 572
Sect. 1, 2. That we muſt proceed orderly in this exerciſe, and how this is to bee done. 572
3 That in our Meditations wee muſt chiefly reſpect our will, hearts, and affections, our liues and actions. 576
4 That wee muſt not bee diſcouraged, though we cannot at the firſt feele the fruit of our Meditations. 577
5 Of the meanes whereby wee may feele our hearts affected with a liuely ſenſe of the things whereon wee meditate. 578
6 Of the egreſſe and concluſion of our Meditation. 580
CAP. XX.
An example and patterne of Meditation, the ſubiect matter whereof, is true and vnfained repentance. 582
Sect. 1. What repentance is, and the cauſes thereof. 582
2 Of the matter, forme, and parts of repentance, and firſt, of humiliation. 584
3 Of the ſecond part of repentance, which conſiſteth in conuerſion and amendment. 586
4 Of the finall cauſes, ſubiect, and properties of repentance, the contraries vntounto it, and compariſons illuſtrating it. 587
5 Of the kinds of repentance; ordinary and extraordinary. 588
CAP. XXI.
How wee muſt worke the former points vponupon our hearts and affections. 590
Sect. 1. How our hearts are to be affected with feruent deſires to practiſe this duty of repentance. 590
2, 3, 4, 5. Motiues perſwading to the practice of repentance in the ſeuerall parts thereof. 597
CAP. XXII.
Of diuers ſpeciall meanes whereby the point meditated is wrought vponupon the heart and affections. 598
Sect. 1, 2, 3, &c. Whereof examination, confeſſion, complaint, hearty wiſhing to hauehave our wants ſupplied, acknowledgment of impotencie, Petition, inforcement, confidence, congratulation, and recommendation. 598
CAP. XXIII.
Of the third priuate meanes of a godly life, which is conſideration and examination of our eſtates. 605
Sect. 1. How conſideration and examination differ. 605
2 Of examination, what it is, and wherein it conſiſteth. 605
3 That wee are chiefly to examine our ſelues in reſpect of our ſinnes, and firſt, our originall corruption. 607
4 Of examining our ſelues, concerning our actuall tranſgreſſions according to the Law. 607
5 How we muſt aggrauate our ſins, in reſpect of circumſtances. 609
6 That it is a profitable courſe to keepe a regiſter or catalogue of our ſpeciall ſinnes, and of the manifold fruits that will ariſe out of it. 610
7 Of the conſideration of our miſery and puniſhment. 612
8 Of the end of this examination, and time when it is to bee performed. 612
9 A complaint of the neglect of this duty, and the cauſes thereof. 613
CAP. XXIIII.
Diuers effectuall reaſons to mooue vsus vntounto this exerciſe of examination. 614
Sect. 1. That this duty is required in the Scriptures. 614
2 The great profit of this exerciſe of examination. 615
3, 4. That this exerciſe is very neceſſary. 616
CAP. XXV.
Of the fourth priuate meanes of a godly life, which is, walking daily with God. 619
Sect. 1. That wee are alwayes in Gods preſence. 619
2 That it would be a powerfull meanes to reſtraine vsus from all ſinne, if wee would alwayes ſet God before vsus. 620
3 That the conſideration of Gods preſence would effectually moue vsus vntounto all good duties. 622
CAP. XXVI.
Of the laſt meanes of a godly life, which is experimentall knowledge. 623
Sect. 1. What this experimentall knowledge is, and the practice of it, ſhewed in many examples. 623
2 The experimentall knowledge of our owne eſtates, in reſpect of our diuers and contrary courſes. 625
3 That no knowledge is to be compared with this of experience. 626
CAP. XXVII.
That Prayer is a ſingular meanes of a godly life. 628
Sect. 1. That nothing more then prayer maketh vsus godly and religious. 628
2 That prayer is the meanes of obtayning all Gods gifts and graces. 629
3 That all the parts of prayer are ſingular helpes to a godly life. 629
CAP. XXVIII.
Of reading the Scriptures and other religious writings. 631
Sect. 1. Who are to exerciſe themſelues in this duty of reading. 631
2 That wee are chiefly to be exerciſed in reading and ſtudying of the Scriptures. 632
3 Their obiection anſwered, who pretend the obſcurity of the Scriptures. 633
4 That we muſt not reade the Scriptures only, but alſo other religious writings. 635
5 Speciall directions for the choyce of fit Authors, which may helpe vsus in the practice of godlineſſe. 636
CAP. XXIX.
Of our preparation to this exerciſe of Reading, and what is required in it. 638
Sect. 1. That wee muſt come with reuerence to this holy exerciſe, and bring faith vntounto it. 638
2 That we muſt bring honeſt hearts, and earneſt deſires to profit by this exerciſe. 639
3 That wee muſt come with a purpoſe to make good vſe of all wee reade. 639
4 That we muſt pray before wee reade. 640
CAP. XXX.
Of the duties required in the action of reading, that we may profit by it. 641
Sect. 1. Of the ends at which wee muſt ayme in our reading. 641
2 That we muſt obſerue the theame and argument. 642
3 That wee muſt obſerue a due order in our reading. 642
4 That the deuout Reader is not to reade many Bookes of the ſame argument, but to make choyce of ſome which are beſt. 643
5 That wee muſt labour to vnderſtand what we reade. 644
6 That we muſt ioyne with our reading ſerious Meditation. 646
7 That wee muſt reade with affection and deuotion, applying all to vſe. 647
8 That wee muſt reade orderly, with diligence and conſtancy. 647
9 Of the fitteſt time for this exerciſe. 649
10 Of the wofull neglect of it. 650
CAP. XXXI.
That reading is a notable meanes to further vsus in the duties of a godly life. 651
Sect. 1. That reading is a profitable exerciſe. 651
2 That by it the minde is much inlightened in the knowledge of Gods will. 651
3 Of many other benefits which reading bringeth. 652
CAP. XXXII.
Of the choyce of our company, by which we ſhunne the ſociety of the wicked, and conſort our ſelues with the godly. 653
Sect. 1. That we muſt carefully auoyd the ſociety of the wicked. 653
2 The Scriptures often warne vsus to auoyd them. 655
3 Examples of the faithfull to the ſame purpoſe. 655
4 Reaſons moouing vsus to ſhunne euill company; firſt, becauſe it is a ſtrong tentation vntounto euill. 656
5 Other reaſons to the ſame purpoſe. 657
6 That we muſt conſort our ſelues with the godly. 658
7 That good company taketh away the tediouſneſſe of good exerciſes. 659
8 That good company preſerueth vsus from falling into many ſinnes, and inciteth vsus to many duties. 659
9 That by good company we are fitted to performe Chriſtian duties one towards another. 660
CAP. XXXIII.
Of the extraordinary meanes of a godly life, and firſt, of feaſting and ſolemne thankeſgiuing. 662
Sect. 1. Of ſolemne thankeſgiuing, what it is, and when to bee performed. 662
2 When this duty is moſt ſeaſonable, how it differeth from that which is ordinary, and the kinds of it. 663
CAP. XXXIIII.
Of the ſecond extraordinary meanes which is ſolemne faſting. 665
Sect. 1. What a true faſt is, and how it differeth from all other faſts. 665
2 That the duty of faſting is morall, and required in the Goſpell, as well as the Law. 666
3 Of the cauſes of a true faſt, and when it is moſt ſeaſonable. 667
4 Of the ends of a true faſt. 668
CAP. XXXV.
Of the parts of a true faſt, or the things wherein it conſiſteth. 670
Sect. 1. That the outward faſt conſiſteth in totall abſtinence. 670
2 That wee muſt, in our faſt, abſtaine from the moſt part of worldly comforts. 671
3 Of the inward and ſpirituall exerciſes in our faſt. 672
4 Of humiliation and penitency in our faſt. 673
5 That prayer muſt be ioyned with our faſting. 673
6 That with our faſting, we muſt ioyne vnfained repentance. 675
7 That we muſt, in our faſt, exerciſe our ſelues in all Chriſtian duties. 676
CAP. XXXVI.
Of the arguments and reaſons which may moue vsus to leade a godly life; and firſt, ſuch as reſpect Gods nature, workes, and louelove towards vsus. 678
Sect. 1. The firſt ſort of reaſons taken from Gods nature and attributes. 678
2 The ſecond reaſon, taken from Gods louelove towards vsus. 680
3 The third reaſon, taken from Gods decree of Election. 681
4 The fourth reaſon, taken from the benefit of our Creation. 683
5 The fifth reaſon, taken from the benefit of our preſeruation. 684
CAP. XXXVII.
Two other reaſons mouing vsus to a godly life: the firſt, taken from Chriſt, giuen vntounto vsus by his Father; the other, from the couenant of grace made in him. 686
Sect. 1. Of the ineſtimable gift of Ieſus Chriſt, which ſhould moue vsus to louelove and ſerue God. 686
2 That the work of Redemption ſhould moue vsus to ſerue our Redeemer in all duties of a godly life. 687
3 That by the couenant of grace, wee are ſtrongly bound vntounto all Chriſtian duties of a godly life. 689
CAP. XXXVIII.
Of two other reaſons mouing vsus to a godly life: the one taken from our effectuall calling; the other from our free Iuſtification by faith. 691
Sect. 1. That the benefit of our effectuall calling ſhould mooue vsus to ſerue God in the duties of a godly life. 691
2 The ſecond reaſon taken from our Iuſtification, and the fruits that follow it. 692
CAP. XXXIX.
Other motiues ariſing from thoſe duties which we owe vntounto God and our neighbours. 694
Sect. 1. The firſt reaſon, taken from that thankfulneſſe which wee owe vntounto God. 694
2 The ſecond reaſon, taken from that deſire which ſhould be in vsus to glorifie God. 695
3 The third reaſon, taken from the will of God, that wee ſhould thus ſerue him. 696
4 The fourth reaſon is, that wee may adorne the Goſpell of God which wee profeſſe. 698
5 That we muſt leade a godly life to auoyd offence. 698
CAP. XL.
Of ſuch reaſons mouing vsus to the duties of a godly life, as reſpect our ſelues. 700
Sect. 1. The firſt reaſon, taken from that dignity vntounto which God hath called vsus. 700
2 The ſecond reaſon is, becauſe hereby we are aſſured that wee ſhall proſper in all our wayes. 701
3 The third reaſon, becauſe without this indeuour, all our outward exerciſes are vaine. 701
4 The fourth reaſon, taken from the conſideration of our loſt time before our conuerſion. 702
CAP. XLI.
Other reaſons taken from our owne profit, and the manifold benefits of a godly life. 703
Sect. 1. That godlineſſe is the chiefeſt gaine. 703
2 That it aſſureth vsus of freedome from all our ſinnes. 704
3 That by it we are freed from the puniſhment of all our ſinnes. 705
4 That it doth much ſtrengthen vsus againſt Satans tentations. 707
5 That by a godly life, wee are prepared againſt death. 708
6 That therby we are freed from Iudgement and condemnation. 709
CAP. XLII.
Other reaſons taken from thoſe ſingular priuiledges, which are peculiar to thoſe who ſerue God in the duties of a godly life. 711
Sect. 1. The firſt priuiledge is, that the Image of God is repaired in vsus. 711
2 The ſecond priuiledge is, that by a godly life wee hauehave title to all Gods promiſes; and firſt, of temporall bleſſings. 712
3 That thereby Gods ſauing graces are much increaſed in in vsus. 714
4 That it ſtrengtheneth our hope and confidence in God. 715
5 That it bringeth courage and true fortitude. 717
6 That it keepeth our conſciences pure and peaceable. 717
7 That it cauſeth conſtancy and perſeuerance. 718
8 That it bringeth many benefits at the houre of death. 719
9 That it bringeth ineſtimable benefits in the life to come. 720
CAP. XLIII.
Of other ſingular priuiledges wherewith God crowneth a godly life. 721
Sect. 1. Their conceit confuted, who imagine that God wholly reſerueth the rewards of thoſe that ſerue him, for the life to come. 721
2 That God ordinarily giueth greateſt plenty of worldly bleſſings to worldly men. 722
3 That euen in this life God endoweth the godly with many ſingular and peculiar priuiledges; and firſt, that hee loueth them aboue all other his creatures. 723
4 That God watcheth ouer the godly with his ſpeciall prouidence, and the benefits of this priuiledge. 725
5 That hee guideth and gouerneth the godly with his grace and holy Spirit. 727
6 That he guideth the godly in the time of their afflictions. 728
7 That hee inwardly guideth them by his grace and holy Spirit. 730
CAP. XLIIII.
Other ſingular priuiledges wherewith God in this life crowneth the godly, which are the fruits and effects of his holy Spirit. 731
Sect. 1. That he ſealeth vntounto the godly the aſſurance of their adoption. 731
2 The ſecond ſpeciall priuiledge is illumination. 732
3 The third is ſanctification of the Spirit. 733
4 The fourth is internall and ſpirituall ioy. 733
5 The laſt is Chriſtian liberty. 734
CAP. XLV.
Of foure other maine priuiledges, wherewith God crowneth a godly life, both in this world, and the world to come. 735
Sect. 1. That hee beſtoweth vponupon them the Spirit of prayer. 735
2 That he giueth them meanes to build them vp in grace vntounto ſaluation. 736
3 That they ſhall perſeuere in the ſtate of grace to ſaluation. 737
4 Of their ineſtimable priuiledges in the world to come. 739
THE SIXT AND LAST Booke of a godly life, intreating of the impediments which vſually hinder and diſcourage men from entring into, & proceeding in the Chriſtian duties which are required vntounto it, and of the helps and meanes whereby they may be remoued. 742
CAP. I.
Of thoſe impediments which are caſt into our way, to hinder vsus in the duties of a godly life, by Satan, the arch enemy of our ſaluation. 742
Sect. 1. That Satan bendeth all his forces againſt vsus, to hinder vsus in the duties of a godly life. 742
2 How we may remooue the former impediments. 743
3 That Satans might and malice muſt not diſcourage vsus, and the reaſons hereof. 744
4 Of Satans tentations whereby he impugneth our faith. 745
5 Satans tentations whereby he ſeeketh to hinder vsus from entring into the wayes of godlines, or from proceeding in them. 747
CAP. II.
Of impediments which the world caſteth in our way to hinder vsus, that wee may not leade a godly life; and firſt, ſuch as are publike. 749
Sect. 1. The firſt impediment, ariſing from euill Magiſtrates. 749
2 Of the impediments which ariſe from euill Miniſters. 750
3 4. The meanes to remoue this impediment, reſpecting both Miniſters and people. 752
5 Of the impediment which ariſeth from the euill liues of Miniſters. 754
6 Of the publike impediments which reſpect the people. 755
CAP. III.
Of ſuch priuate impediments as the world vſeth, to hinder vsus in a godly life, and firſt, thoſe on the right hand. 757
Sect. 1. Of the tentations of proſperity, and that they are moſt dangerous impediments of a godly life. 757
2 Of impediments ariſing from honours, riches, pleaſures, and from euill company. 758
CAP. IIII.
Of impediments on the left hand, ariſing from afflictions and perſecutions. 761
Sect. 1. How the world ſeeketh to hinder our courſe in godlines, by afflictions and perſecutions. 761
2 3. Of the worlds profeſſed hatred, whereby it diſcourageth vsus in Chriſtian duties. 761
4 Of the falſe iudgement of the world, ſhewed in the bitter cenſures of the godly. 764
5 Of worldly contempt, vntounto which the godly are lyable. 765
CAP. VI.
Of externall impediments whereby the world hindreth vsus in the duties of a godly life; and firſt, ſlanders and deriſion. 767
Sect. 1. How we may be armed againſt ſlanders of the world. 767
2 Of deriſion and ſcoffes which the world vſeth to diſcourage the godly in all good courſes. 769
3 How we may be armed againſt them. 769
4 Of the neceſſity of Chriſtian Apologie and profeſſion of the truth. 771
CAP. VI….
Of worldly perſecutions, and how wee may be ſtrengthened againſt them. 772
Sect. 1. Of the worlds cruelty in perſecuting the godly. 772
2 That it hath alwayes beene the lot of the godly to bee perſecuted of the world. 773
3 That our Sauiour Chriſt hath foretold theſe perſecutions. 775
4 Of the patience which the Saints hauehave ſhewed in ſuffering perſecutions. 776
5 That our perſecutions for righteouſneſſe ſake, ſhall be richly rewarded. 777
CAP. VII….
Of the impediments of a godly life, which ariſe from ſcandals and offences. 778
Sect. 1. The firſt ſcandall ariſing from the proſperity of the wicked. 778
2 The ſecond ſcandall ariſing from iudgement deferred. 779
3 The third ſcandall ariſing from hypocrites. 781
CAP. IX.
Of the impediments of a godly life, ariſing from the fleſh; and firſt, from the intellectuall faculties. 784
Sect. 1. That the moſt dangerous impediments ariſe from the fleſh. 784
2 That ignorance is a great impediment to a godly life. 785
3 That vaine curioſity is alſo a great impediment. 787
4 5. Of impediments ariſing from an erronious iudgement. 788
6 That infidelity is a great impediment to a godly life. 793
CAP. X.
Of manifold impediments ariſing from our corrupt hearts and affections. 793
Sect. 1. The firſt impediment is an heart hardened through the deceitfulneſſe of ſinne. 793
2 The ſecond impediment is the louelove of the world. 794
3 The third impediment, worldly cares. 795
CAP. X….
Of impediments ariſing from carnall hope and preſumption. 797
Sect. 1. That carnall hopes are great impediments to godlineſſe. 797
2 That carnall preſumption is another great impediment. 799
3 Of the meanes to remoue the former impediment. 800
4 Of preſumptuous neglecting the meanes of holineſſe. 802
CAP. XII.
Of the third ſort of carnall affections, which are impediments to a godly life; as ſuperſtitious ſcrupuloſity, deiection of mind, feare and deſperation. 803
Sect. 1. That ſcrupuloſity is a great impediment to a godly life. 803
2 Of the meanes to be freed from it. 805
3 That carnall feare is a great hindrance vntounto godlineſſe, and the meanes to be freed from it. 806
4 That carnall ſorrow is another great impediment, and how wee may bee freed from it. 807
5 That deſperation alſo hindreth vsus, and how we may be armed againſt it. 809
6 That pride alſo is a great impediment, and how to remooue it. 810
7 That ſloth alſo much hindreth vsus, and how we may arme our ſelues againſt it. 811
8 Of wearineſſe in well doing, and how it hindreth vsus; and firſt, that which proceedeth from an ill diſpoſition of the body. 812
9 Of that wearineſſe which ariſeth from the auerſneſſe of our willes vntounto good duties. 813
CAP. XIII.
Obiections againſt a godly life made by the fleſh, anſwered, and firſt, ſuch as pretend impoſſibility and difficulty. 814
Sect. 1. That a godly life is poſſible vntounto vsus. 814
2 To whom a godly life is difficult, and the cauſes of it. 816
3 The cauſes why the duties of a godly life ſeeme difficult and tedious euen to the regenerate, and the cauſes of it. 817
4 That the difficulty muſt not diſcourage vsus from it. 819
5 That the recompence of reward muſt incourage vsus againſt all difficulties. 820
6 That a godly life, in it owne nature, is not difficult and tedious, but ſweet and delightfull. 821
CAP. XIIII.
That the godly life is not tedious and troubleſome to the regenerate, but eaſie and familiar. 823
Sect. 1. That the regenerate hauehave a new nature, vntounto which a godly life is eaſie and pleaſant. 823
2 That a godly life is made eaſie, through the power of God the Father aſſiſting vsus. 825
3 That God the Sonne ioyning with vsus, taketh away all difficulty. 827
4 That the duties of a godly life are made eaſie by the aſſiſtance of the holy Spirit. 829
5 That the ſauing graces of the Spirit make it eaſie and familiar. 829
6 That Chriſtian fortitude ouercommeth all difficulties, and maketh a godly life eaſie. 830
7 Of meanes whereby wee may attaine to Chriſtian fortitude. 831
8 That by daily and conſtant practice we may eaſily ouercome all difficulties. 833
9 That worldlings take more paines about earthly vanities, and in the ſeruice of ſinne and Satan, then is required to a godly life. 835
CAP. XV.
That a godly life is not harſh and vnpleaſant, mopiſh and melancholike, but aboue all others, moſt cheerfull and pleaſant, ſweet and delightfull. 836
Sect. 1. That though a godly life were ſad and ſorrowfull, yet this ſhould not diſcourage vsus from it. 836
2 That ſanctification taketh not away our ioy & delight, but only changeth and improueth it. 838
3 That no ioy of worldlings is comparable to that which is in Chriſtians. 839
4 Of the diuers obiects of our ſpirituall ioy. 841
5 That the Chriſtians chiefeſt ioy is ſpirituall, and wherein it exceedeth all other ioyes. 842
6 That this ſpirituall ioy is proper to the godly, and belongeth to none other. 844
7 An admonition to the faithfull, to lay hold on this ioyfull priuiledge, and to ſhake off ſorrow and ſadneſſe. 846
CAP. XVI.
Three other obiections of the fleſh againſt a godly life, propounded, and anſwered. 848
Sect. 1. That a godly life taketh not away any lawfull liberty, but rather eſtabliſheth it. 848
2 That it taketh not away friendſhip and good ſociety, but rather confirmeth it. 849
3 That a godly life doth not bring with it want and pouerty. 850
4 That though many godly men are poore, that godlineſſe is no cauſe of their pouerty. 851
CAP. XVII.
Their obiection anſwered, who alleage, that their pouerty preſſeth them to ſuch continuall labour, that they hauehave no leiſure for the duties of a godly life. 852
Sect. 1. That Gods Commandements bind to obedience poore and rich. 852
2 That pouerty hindreth not Gods graces in vsus, but rather furthers them. 853
3 That the more poore we are, the more earneſt we ſhould be in Gods ſeruice. 854
4 That if being poore, wee carefully ſerue God, wee may ſecurely caſt our ſelues vponupon his gracious prouidence, and expect him to be our reward. 854
5 That the obiection of pouerty is but a friuolous and falſe excuſe. 856
CAP. XVIII.
Their obiection anſwered, who pretend, that their multitude of worldly imployments will allow them no leiſure for religious duties. 857
Sect. 1. That earthly bleſſings are no hindrances to godlineſſe, but the immoderate louelove of them. 857
2 That we muſt not vndertake all imployments which the world and the fleſh will preſſe vponupon vsus. 859
3 That no buſineſſe is of like moment, as by ſeruing God, to ſaue our ſoules. 859
4 That they who neglect the duties of Gods ſeruice, cannot expect good ſucceſſe to their labours. 860
5 That the duties of our particular callings, muſt giuegive place to the generall calling of Chriſtianity. 861
6 That we hauehave time ſufficient for religious and ciuill duties, if it bee wiſely husbanded. 863
7 That none are exempted by God, from the duties of his ſeruice, vnderunder pretence of any buſineſſe. 860
CAP. XIX.
Their obiection anſwered, who excuſe their neglect of religious duties, vnderunder pretence that the times and places wherein they liue, are full of corruption. 866
Sect. 1. That the corruption of the times is a ſtrong tentation to withdraw vsus from godlineſſe. 866
2 That though it bee hard to fleſh and blood to liue righteouſly in corrupt times, yet it is poſſible, yea eaſie to the regenerate. 868
3 A note of difference betweene true zeale and deuotion, and that which is falſe and hypocriticall. 869
CAP. XX.
Diuers other obiections made by the fleſh, againſt a godly life, propounded and anſwered. 870
Sect. 1. That it is not enough to liue harmeleſly, vnleſſe wee alſo performe religious duties. 870
2 That it is not ſufficient to ſerue God in ſome things, and at ſome times. 871
3 Their obiection anſwered, who pretend that they hauehave outgone many others. 872
4 Their obiection anſwered, who affirme, that Miniſters onelyonly are bound to the ſtrict performance of religious duties. 873
5 Their obiection anſwered, who pretend want of meanes. 875
6 Their obiection anſwered, who pretend, that it is not ſafe to be more forward then other men. 876
7 That the duties of a godly life muſt not be delayed. 877
8 The Concluſion of the whole Treatiſe. 881
A Paraphraſe vponupon the Lords Prayer. 884
A priuate Prayer for the Morning. 891
Another priuate Prayer for the Morning. 896
A Prayer for the Family in the Morning. 899
Another Morning Prayer for the Family. 903
A Prayer for the Family in the Euening. 906
Another Euening Prayer for the Family. 909
Another Morning prayer for the Lords Day. 913
A Prayer for the Lords Day in the Euening. 916
A Prayer before the receiuing of the Sacrament of the Lords Supper. 928
A Thankeſgiuing after the receiuing of it. 923
A Prayer for the ſicke. 956
A Prayer for children. 960
The end of the Table.