The Virgins Pattern in the Life and Death of Susanna Perwich, Decades

The Virgins Pattern in the Life and Death of Susanna Perwich · Decades

p. 129I. DECAD.

1. VVHether the imputed Righteouſneſs of Jeſus Chriſt by Faith, be not the true formal cauſe of a Believers Juſtification? whether the ſatisfaction he hath made to his Father's Juſtice on behalf of the Elect, be not ſufficient? whether the merits of his Active and Paſſive obedience, do not ariſe from the dignity of his Perſon? and whether he that denies this, doth not make the Goſpel void? Eſa. 53. throughout, 2 Cor. 5.21. Mat. 3.17. Heb. 7.25, 26, 27. compared with Rom. 4.14. Gal. 3. from 17. to 27. & Chap. 4.5.

2. Whether he that affirms total and final falling away from ſpecial Grace, be not a down-right Arminian, and Cozen-German to a Papiſt?

3. Whether he that holds the power p. 130of nature (otherwiſe called Freewill) may not ſtrongly be ſuſpected to be unknown to himſelf, or at leaſt not to take due notice of the workings of ſin and Grace in his own heart?

4. Whether one may not be a zealous Preacher againſt ſin, and for inherent Grace, in order to Juſtification thereby, and yet be a Jeſuit, or every whit as bad, whatever his pretence may be to the contrary? and whether ſuch may not be accounted upholders of the doctrine of merit, and eſtabliſhers of their own Righteouſneſs? Rom. 10.3.

5. Whether it be poſſible to cover a ſinners ſpiritual nakedneſs with any other garments, but thoſe which Chriſt wears on his own back? Rev. 3.18.

6. Whether the Righteouſneſs of Chriſt applyed by Faith, be not both coat of Mail and cloth of Gold; and ſuch too, as nothing can either pierce p. 131or ſully? and whether he that hath this upon him, be not both ſecurely and bravely arrayed from head to foot? Eph. 6.11. compared with Rev. 1.13.

7. Whether any other robes have ſuch rich embroideries, or are hung with ſo many, and ſo coſtly Jewels, as thoſe robes of Chriſt, which both himſelf and his People wear? Eſ. 61.10. Cant. 1.10, 11.

8. Whether Chriſt hath any Dowry with his Bride? and whether her Wedding clothes are not of his providing, Ezek. 16.13, 14. compared with Rev. 21.2.

9. Whether it was not an unparallel'd love for Chriſt, to account the day of Eſpouſals, with one that had neither Beauty, Parentage, nor Portion, to be the day of the gladneſs of of his heart? Cant. 1.6. Eze. 16.3, 4, 5, 6. compared with Cant. 3.11.

10. Whether by the Queens, her being all glorious within (Pſal. 45. p. 13213.) and by her clothing of wrought Gold, be not meant, the ſplendors of Grace in the heart, and the ſhine of them in the Life?

II. DECAD.

11. Whether, if Grace be the Flower, ſincerity and godly ſimplicity, be not the laſting fragrancy and beauty of that Flower?

12. Whether the Flames of Divine Love are not moſt vehement, even flames of God? and whether thoſe flames are not raiſed and maintained from the ſweeteſt Fuels? Cant. 8.6. compared with Chap. 1.12.

13. Whether theſe flames ſhall ever go quite out for want of fuel, or can be extinguiſhed, either by men or devils? Jer. 31.3. compared with Rom. 8.35. to 39.

14. Whether the very beſt duties of the beſt Saints, have not need of Chriſt's perfumes to ſweeten them? p. 133and whether much incenſe be not therefore added to their Prayers, becauſe they are in themſelves very unſavory, and from very noyſom hearts? Rev. 8.3.

15. Whether in the golden Vials (mentioned Rev. 5.8.) though the Prayers are the Saints, the odours are not Chriſt's? and whether the reaſon why they are all called odours, be not, becauſe the denomination is alwayes from the better part?

16. Whether fervent Prayers from holy hearts, make not as ſweet a ſmell in Heaven, as their praiſes make melodies? Pſal. 141.2. Cant. 2.14.

17. Whether a ſoul can truly live without Chriſt any more than the Body without wholeſom food, Joh. 6.27, 32, 33.

18. VVhether the higheſt Angels feed on better dainties than the meaneſt Saint? and whether the Love of God be not a full and a ſumptuous Feaſt? Pſal. 36.7, 8. & 34.8. compared with Eſa. 25.6.

p. 13419. Whether the hardeſt heart doth not drink in the Love, and melt in the Blood of Chriſt, as ſugar ſucks up, and melts in wine? Rom. 5.5.

20. Whether one can begin too ſoon to love God? or can love him too much? or can ſuffer or loſe, or do too much for him? and whether he doth not deſerve the very beſt of all we have? the beſt of our time? the beſt of our affections? the beſt of our injoyments? and accordingly whether he doth not expect it? Deut. 6.5. Gen. 4.4. compared with Mal. 1.8.

III. DECAD.

21. Whether true ſaving Faith may not well be ſaid to have an Eagles eye, ſince in a right line it can look on the brighteſt Sun, the Sun of Righteouſneſs? Eſa. 45.22. compared with Mal. 4.2.

22. Whether a weak Faith, like a palſy hand, may not lay hold on a pardon or purſe of gold? the woman p. 135came trembling to Chriſt, Luke 8.47. Mark 9.24. Joh. 6.37.

23. Whether the lowly grace of Humility, like the delicate ſcented Violet, that even kiſſeth the earth, and as 'twere hides it ſelf under its own leaves, be not as ſweet as any of the Taller graces? and whether this be not a thriving Grace? Pſal. 25.9. Prov. 29.23. Jam. 4.6. 1 Pet. 5.5.

24. Whether they have not the quickeſt and beſt hearing, who have an ear in their heart that liſtens to, and hears the ſmalleſt motions of the Spirit of Grace? Eſa. 30.21.

25. Whether Faith and Love are not a pair of golden wings, with which a gracious heart flies to Heaven every day? Pſal. 11.1. & 143.9.

26. Whether the loweſt ſighs from a broken heart, do not make the loudeſt Prayers? and whether a Prayer upon the knee, will ever reach Heaven, unleſs it be a Prayer on the wing too? Pſal. 51.17. Eſa. 37.4.

p. 13627. Whether all the day long, whereſoever or howſoever imployed, the ſending up of frequent ejaculations to Heaven, be not to drive a ſecret, but thriving trade for Grace, and the comforts of it? Pſal. 139.17, 18. Eſa. 26.8, 9.

28. Whether any one truly penitent groan, was ever unheard of God? or one penitent tear unſeen or unbottled up by him? and whether God will defer the deliverance of his afflicted People one moment longer than is neceſſary? 2 King. 20.5. Pſal. 56.8. 1 Pet. 1.6.

29. Whether he that ſuffers or loſeth moſt for Chriſt, be not the greateſt gainer? Mat. 5.11, 12. Rom. 8.17, 18. 2 Cor. 4.17.

30. Whether by ſome mens lives and actions, it may be ſuppoſed, that they do really believe there is a God, a day of Judgement, an Heaven and an Hell?

p. 137IV. DECAD.

31. Whether the death of many righteous in a few months time, be not a ſad prognoſtication of much evil to come? and whether every day of our life, we ought not ſeriouſly to think of, and carefully prepare for the hour of our death? Eſa. 57.1. Job 14.14. Pſal. 90.12.

32. Whether a covert under the wings of the Almighty, be not a ſafe and a warm place in ſtormy times? and whether they may not reckon themſelves ſecure whom God keeps? Pſal. 91.1, 4.

33. Whether the boſom of God be not the ſweeteſt, higheſt and brighteſt place in Heaven? and whether it be not the place where Abraham lyes? Luk. 16.23.

34. Whether his caſe be not to be lamented, who makes it his buſineſs ſo to live, as to dye a fool? and whether a poor Lazarus be not in an happier p. 138condition than he? Luk. 12.20. & Chap. 16.22.

35. Whether he that refuſeth to anſwer God's Calls and Counſels in the time of his Life, can expect God's anſwers to his calls and cries at the hour of his death? Prov. 1.24 to 31.

36. Whether Fornicators, Adulterers, and other ſuch like, ſhall not do well to conſider, that God's eye is broad open upon them at midnight, when no candle is in the room, no company there, and the curtains drawn round about them? and whether he doth not ſee their thoughts too, as well as their actions? Pſal. 90.8. & 139.1 to 14. Heb. 13.4.

37. Whether, if every idle word muſt be accounted for, as certainly it ſhall, Mat. 12.36. it will not be ſad with them, whoſe mouths belch forth nothing but oaths, curſings, blaſphemies, ſcurrilities, all manner of filthy communications, and bitter revilings againſt God, his wayes and p. 139People? Pſal. 10.7. Rom. 3.13, 14. 1 Pet. 2.23. Jude 15.

38. Whether the righteous God be not engaged to a ſevere puniſhment of the wrongs and injuries done to him and his? and whether preſent forbearance will paſs for payment, or doth not make way rather for the heavier blows at laſt? Pſal. 37, 12, 13. Eccleſ. 8.11, 12. Prov. 11.21.

39. Whether God will be mocked, or doth not take notice of the intolerable inſolencies of prophane ſcoffers at his Holy things, eſpecially his ſervants the Prophets, and the meſſages which they bring? and whether this was not one great cauſe of all that wrath that brake out againſt Judah, when they were carried away captives into Babylon? 2 Chron. 36.16. Gal. 6.7.

40. Whether the terrible Judgements of God, in the preſent death of four of the Actors of the paſsion of Chriſt, upon the very place where, and p. 140while they were acting it (mentioned by Philip Melancthon) are not to be taken notice of by ſuch as adventure on ſuch bold attempts?

V. DECAD.

41. Whether Idolatry were not one principal ſin, that ſent the ten Tribes into perpetual captivity? and whether the practiſe of it among Chriſtians, be not one great hindrance of the converſion of the Jews, who having ſmarted ſo much and ſo long together for that ſin, do they not now dread to come where it is, or to embrace that Religion that is defiled with it? 2 King. 17.7. to 19.

42. Whether the worſhipping of the true God, after a falſe manner, be not Idolatry in the Scripture account, as well as the worſhipping of a falſe God? and whether God cares for any worſhippers, but ſuch as worſhip him in Spirit and Truth? Ezek. 43.8. John 4.24.

p. 14143. Whether a little pollution, mixt with the pure Doctrine, Diſcipline and Worſhip of God be not like a little ſpider in a cup of rich wine, which may poyſon it as well as a bigger? and whether God doth not expect full as great care and caution about the matter and manner of his Worſhip in the dayes of the Goſpel, as he did in the dayes of Moſes, who was not to vary in the leaſt, from the pattern that was ſhewed him in the Mount? Exod. 35.40. Ezek. 44.7, 8.

44. Whether it be not the peculiar Office of the Spirit of God, to teach his People to pray? and whether any prayers will be accepted, but ſuch as he dictates? Rom. 8.15, 26, 27. Pſal. 10.17.

45. Whether ſeeming grace or holineſs, will qualifie a man for happineſs, any more than real ſins? and whether thoſe Scribes and Phariſees, which our Saviour calls Hypocrites, in their external acts of worſhip, and p. 142publick profeſſion of Religion, were not in appearance very devout men? Mat. 23.14, 25, to 30. Phil. 3.4, 5, 6.

46. Whether any leaven ſo ſowers the Conſcience? any thorn ſo ſharply pricks it? any dagger ſo deeply wounds it, as hypocriſie? 1 Cor. 5.8. Prov. 18.14.

47. Whether Swearers, Drunkards, Whore-maſters, or any other prophane perſons and lewd livers, be any whit the better men, becauſe they go to Divine Service twice a day, and perhaps can ſay all the Prayers without book too (being ſo often uſed to them) unleſs they truly repent and reform? Eſa. 29.13. Jer. 7.9, 10, 11.

48. Whether the Goſpel ſhould not be preached in ſeaſon and out of ſeaſon? and whether; where viſion fails, the people are not in danger of periſhing? 2 Tim. 4.2. Prov. 29.18.

49. Whether the darkneſs, occaſioned among a People, by the abſence p. 143of the Sun of Righteouſneſs, and his ſhining Goſpel, be not far greater, and more terrible than that of Aegypt, it being a deprivation of a more glorious Light? Luk. 1.79.

50. Whether they that cannot endure the light of the Goſpel, have not ſore eyes? and they that cannot ſee the light of it when it ſhines brightly, are not ſtark blind? and whether they that do their utmoſt to extinguiſh it, are not willing to have themſelves and deeds undiſcovered, and ſo go to Hell without ſtop? Joh. 3.19, 20. Eph. 5.13. 2 Cor. 4.3, 4.

VI. DECAD.

51. Whether Chriſt his local deſcent into Hell, were an Article of the Chriſtian Faith, the firſt 400. years after Chriſt? and whether thoſe words of our Saviour upon the Croſs, It is finiſhed, (Joh. 19.20.) do leave any ground to believe that he ſuffered any pain, or felt any farther wrath p. 144of God afterwards, as common People are apt to conceive, by thoſe words of his, Deſcending into Hell?

52. Whether the words of that Article in the Creed, Crucified, dead and buryed, do not ſufficiently expreſs Chriſt his remaining in the ſtate of the dead, without the addition of any other words? and if they do, whether then the following words muſt not be taken in a diſtinct ſenſe? or elſe be liable to the danger of a Tantology?

53. Whether the Lords day doth not conſiſt of as many hours as any other day? and whether it ought not to be wholly ſet apart, either for perſonal duties in ſecret; or for private duties in the Family; or for publick duties of Piety in the Congregation, and of charity among Neighbours, as occaſion requires? Exod. 20.8, 9, 10, 11. & Chap. 31.13, to 18. Levit. 19.3, 30. Mat. 12.1, to 9.

54. Whether a great and ſtrict charge doth not lye on Parents and p. 145Governours of Families, to Catechize Children and Servants, and to inſtruct them in the admonition and nurture of the Lord? and whether the want of this be not one great hindrance to the work of the Goſpel in the publick miniſtration of it? Deut. 6.6, 7. Prov. 22.6. Eph. 6.4.

55. Whether the want of frequent and plain Preaching and preſſing the fundamentals of Religion, by the Miniſters of the Goſpel, be not one chief occaſion of the great ignorance and confuſion, that is ordinarily found in the minds of People, about matters of Faith and Practiſe, and of their aptneſs to be ſeduced into errors?

56. Whether it may be ever hoped for in this world, that all men ſhall be juſt of a mind, or of the ſame opinions and apprehenſions (in matters diſputable at leaſt) any more than all to be of one and the ſame complexion and feature in their faces? 1 Cor. 1.12. & Chap. 3.3, 4, 5, 6. & Chap. 12.4, 5.

p. 14657. Whether Parents ought not to bear a great reverence towards their Children, in doing and ſaying nothing in their ſight and hearing, which they are unwilling to have them learn or practiſe? and whether evil communication in them as well as others, doth not corrupt good manners? 1 Cor. 15.33. Eph. 4.29.

58. Whether often dropping ſavory and good ſpeeches among thoſe we have ordinary converſe with, in deſign to win ſouls, or to quicken grace in our ſelves and others, be not a ſowing of precious ſeed, that will be ſure to come up at one time or another in a fruitful Harveſt? and whether Abraham, Joſhua, and David, with other eminent Saints in Scripture, were not wont to be much imployed this way? Gen. 18.19. Joſh. 24.15. Pſal. 34.11. Prov. 31.1, to 10. Prov. 1.1, 3, 4. & Chap. 10.21.

59. Whether he that willingly and conſtantly neglects the duties of ſecret p. 147meditation and Prayer betwixt God …nd his own ſoul, may paſs in charity …or a good Chriſtian? Mat. 6.5, 6.

60. Whether a cold, flat, dull ſpirit of Prayer among Gods People, be not a ſad ſymptom, both of their unfitneſs to ſuffer afflictions, and unpreparedneſs for deliverance out of it? Eſa. 43.22. and whether when God intends mercy, he doth not give an heart to pray earneſtly for it? Jer. 29.10, to 15.

VII. DECAD.

61. Whether the flood-gates of all manner of ſins ſtanding open among a People, and no ſtop put to them, will not let in alſo inundations of judgements? and whether in ſuch times there can be any more than two parties found, either ſuch as willingly partake of the common guilt, or ſuch as ſigh and cry for the abominations committed among them? Lam. 1.8, 9. Ezek. 9.4.

p. 14862. Whether thoſe that live mo… holily, mourn for their own and the Nations ſin moſt affectionately, and pray for their Prince moſt fervently, are not the beſt ſubjects? 1 Tim. 2.1, 2.

63. Whether pure Religion, and undefiled, doth not conſiſt in the conſcientious performances of the duties of both Tables, viz. of Holineſs towards God, and Righteouſneſs towards men? and whether he that moſt truly fears God, doth not moſt truly honour the King too? and whether the ſecond muſt not needs be affirmed, where the firſt is granted? 1 Pet. 2.17. Act. 24.16.

64. Whether there can be any comfort in ſuffering, unleſs it be for well doing? and whether a man hath not need of a very good and cleer cauſe, that lyes in a Priſon for it? 1 Pet. 3.17.

65. Whether Prayers and tears are not the Saints weapons, and after p. 149their death too? and whether by …heſe they may not hope to prevail …gainſt their adverſaries in due time, Rev. 6.9, 10. Exod. 2.23, 24, 25.

66. Whether injuries, eſpecially …or God's ſake, are not patiently to be born, rather than revenged? and whether Chriſt himſelf give not a great example and proof of it? Luk. 6.28, 29. 1 Pet. 2.23.

67. Whether it was not providential, that the name of the firſt man that dyed for the Chriſtian Religion (Stephen) ſhould ſignifie a Crown? and whether that crowned Emperour, Philip the Arabian (Succeſſour to Gordianus) who in the time of the 7th. perſecution was ſlain, becauſe a Chriſtian, was not advanced to a much higher dignity than he had before, by his being crowned with Martyrdom? 2 Tim. 4.7, 8. Jam. 1.12. Rev. 2.10. & 3.21.

68. Whether a Priſon for Chriſt's ſake, doth not become a Pallace and p. 150place of glory, and a cloſe ſtinking dungeon, a Paradiſe of ſweeteſt pleaſures? and whether Chriſt himſelf be not fellow-Priſoner there? Rev. 2.10. Act. 12.7. & 16.25. Mat. 25.36.

69. Whether fires of the Saints Bodies are not made of the richeſt fuels? and whether God ſmells not ſweet ſavours from theſe flames? Phil. 2.17. Rom. 12.1.

70. Whether the Aſhes of holy Martyrs, are not reſerved in golden Urnes? and whether the moſt laſting perfumes, are not found in the graves of thoſe that dye in, and for Chriſt, eſpecially ſince Chriſt himſelf and his odours lay in a grave? Joh. 19.39, 40, 41. 1 Theſ. 4.14, 16.

VIII. DECAD.

71. Whether the Hiſtory of the ten perſecutions, eſpecially the Martyrdoms of the Apoſtles, of Epagathus, Zenon, and other Noble men of Rome, of Ignatius Biſhop of Antioch, p. 151of Euſtachius, one of Hadrian's moſt …aliant Generals of his Armies, of …olycarpus Biſhop of Smyrna, of Fe…citas and her ſeven Sons, of Germa…icus Sanctus, Maturus, Attalus, Laurentius, Blandina, with very many others, are not moſt pleaſing and profitable to be read in ſuffering times?

72. Whether viſions of God, and …is holy Angels, to ſome of the afore…aid Martyrs, and their fellows, did not fill them with ineffable joyes in the midſt of their greateſt ſufferings? and whether the intenſneſs and ſweetneſs thereof, were not the true reaſon (as the Writers of theſe things report) why from morning to night they could endure ſuch exquiſite torments, as burning plates, ſcalding lead, boyling oyles, and many other ſuch like, inflicted on their naked bodies, as if they had never felt them? 1 Pet. 4.13, 14. Heb. 10.35. & 12.2.

73. Whether ſome may not be killed, but not hurt? and others not only p. 152dye, but be killed by death? Rev. 2.11, 23.

74. Whether all the world be not a place of exile to him, whoſe Countrey is Heaven? and whether a Believers home can be any where but in his Fathers houſe? John 14. 2. Heb. 11.13, 14, 15, 16.

75. Whether Holineſs be not the beauty of youth, and the glory of old age? the ſhine of this, and of the other world? Prov. 1.8, 9. & 16.31.

76. Whether the Sun in the firmament hath half ſo many beams and influential powers, as the Covenant of Grace hath conſolations? and whether the Promiſes are not the breaſts thereof, and ſo full, that the Babes of Chriſt can never empty them by ſucking? Heb. 6.17, 18. 2 Pet. 1.4. Eſa. 66.11, 12.

77. Whether God be not ſuch an ever and over-flowing Fountain of Life and Grace, as ſends forth millions of freſh and new ſtreams continually? p. 153and whether all other fountains of good are any other than ſo many ſingle drops of this? Pſal. 36.8, 9. Eſa. 12.2, 3.

78. Whether all our flowers grow not in Gods Garden? and whether he be not provoked to crop them, when we look too much upon them, or ſmell too much to them? Hoſ. 2.8, 9, 10.

79. Whether engaging the heart more than is meet, in creature-comforts, be not like a ſurfeit from ſweet-meats, that often brings death? Luk. 8.14. 2 Tim. 3.4.

80. Whether moſt men like ſpiders, do not ſuck poyſon from God's flowers; rather than like Bees, make honey out of them? and whether ingratitude, doth not turn his honey into gall, and preſumption, his grace into wantonneſs? 2 Tim. 3.2. Jude 4.

IX. DECAD.

81. Whether it be not better to ſuffer than to ſin? and whether many p. 154do not wiſh they had done ſo, when … is too late? 1 Pet. 4.16. Mat. 27.3, 4, 5.

82. Whether God will thank any man for being ſo over-careful or bu… in providing for the peace of the Church (or his own peace rather) tha… he is not ſo careful as he ſhould be for the purity of it? and whether it be … good way to procure its peace, b… yeelding to any thing that pollutes it? Ezek. 13.17, to 23.

83. Whether a tender conſcience, that fears to offend God in the leaſt thing, eſpecially in matters of his divine Worſhip, be not leſs dangerous, than a bold conſcience that adventures far, and a large conſcience tha… can ſwallow any thing for preferment… ſake? and whether a tender conſcience be not a better guard upon the purity of Gods holy Ordinances, than a forward compliance with thoſe precepts of men, which (if Chriſt himſelf be worthy of belief) renders the Worſhip of God vain? Eſa. 29.13. p. 155Mat. 15.7, 8, 9. Mark. 7.6, 7, 8, 9.

84. Whether carnal pollicy, love of …lf and baſe fear, have not betrayed …any a brave Cauſe? and whether he …hat ſteps back, and loſeth but one …oot of his ground, doth not draw his …dverſary the faſter and more fiercely …n him, till he be quite beaten out of …he field by him? Gal. 1.16, 17. & …hap. 2.4, 5.

85. Whether thoſe wounds upon …he Goſpel, be not moſt gaping, and …hoſe gaſhes in the profeſſion of it, …he deepeſt, which are made by men, who being reputed truly godly, do moſt unworthily renounce, or at leaſt not openly, ſtrenuouſly and conſtantly aſſert, thoſe profeſſed Principles and practices, which with good reaſon, they formerly, more wayes than one declared for, and maintained, in the face of the whole world? and whether Francis Spira found not the bitter fruit of ſuch a tergiverſation from the Truth, when he ſubſcribed to the p. 156Popes Legat? Oh how did he cry out of the ſhipwrack which he had made of Faith and a good Conſcience I how did he torment his own ſoul, with that dreadful Scripture (Prov. 14.14.) The back-ſlider in heart ſhall be filled with his own wayes! which ſore judgement the Lord avert (for his mercy ſake) and prevent in others.

86. Whether patience under afflictions, be not beſt maintained in a gratious heart, by thinking well of God, and a firm belief that all things ſhall work together for good? and whether the conſideration, that God is a creating God, and ſo able to create ſuccours and means of help, when all viſible hopes from ſecond cauſes fail, be not a ground of great conſolation to Believers when moſt oppreſſed? Rom. 8.28. Heb. 12.5, 6, 7, 10. Eſa. 50.2. & 59.1.

87. Whether God intends any more hurt to his ſervants, when he puts them into the fire, than the Refiner p. 157doth to his pretious mettals, when he puts them into the Furnace? and whether it can reaſonably be imagined, that he means to conſume his gold and ſilver, and ſo impoveriſh himſelf? Mal. 3.2, 3. Zachar. 13.9. 1 Pet. 4.12.

88. Whether Gods actions are not alwayes beſt, how croſs ſoever they may ſeem to us, and done upon the higheſt and beſt reaſons? and whether there be not good reaſon for us to conclude ſo, though ſometimes we underſtand them not? Pſal. 136.5. Prov. 3.19, 20. Job 36.22, 23.

89. Whether God only be not the moſt abſolute Soveraign, that by a peculiar prerogative, makes his own will the rule of whatſoever he doth, both in Heaven and Earth? and whether any thing can poſſibly be contingent to him, or happen otherwiſe (even in any the leaſt circumſtance) than he hath before decreed, ordained, and appointed? or than he orders, permits, and p. 158directs? Job 9.12. Eſa. 46.11. Act. 2.23. & 4.28. & 17.26. Rom. 9.15, 18, to 24.

90. Whether God be not greatly to be obſerved and admired, in all that he doth, not only in his works of Creation, but in the continued courſe of his renewed Providences? and whether every thing that proceeds from God, ſhould not lead us to God? Act. 17.26, 27.

X. DECAD.

91. Whether it be not a duty to follow Providence, and not to lead it? to be led by it, and not to drive it? or whether we can have peace in doing or ſuffering any thing without a good warrant, or call from God? Pſal. 73.24. Heb. 5.4.

92. Whether Original Sin was not the Devils firſt Brat, begot upon humane nature, with its own conſent? and whether millions of millions more, of all manner of tranſgreſſions, p. 159have not ever ſince been conceived and ſprang from the ſame womb? Gen. 3.4, 5, 13. 2 Cor. 11.3. Rom. 5.12, 16, 17, 18, 19. Gen. 6.5. Eccleſ. 8.11. Jam. 1.14.

93. Whether all manner of miſeries and deaths, have not come in at this door only? Rom. 5.12, to 17. Jam. 1.15.

94. Whether we are not worſe enemies to our ſelves by far, than the Devil can poſſibly be, ſince he can never hurt us witho… our own conſent? Prov. 1.10. Pſal. 50.18.

95. Whether the heart of man before 'twas entred and poſſeſſed by ſin, was not the very Paradiſe of Paradiſe, an Eden within Eden it ſelf, even Gods own ſweet Garden of delight, where himſelf, and Son, and Spirit, did all dwell and converſe together? and whether ever ſince it hath not been the very ſpawning place of all filthineſs? a Cage of unclean birds? an horrible deep and dark pit, of hiſſing p. 160ſtinging Serpents? and theſe ſo bedded and twiſted together, and ſo continually multiplying, that it is utterly impoſſible they ſhould ever be deſtroyed any other way, but by plentiful ſtreams of Chriſt his own wreaking warm blood, poured hot upon them, from his dying heart. This indeed can ſtiffle and kill them, when nothing elſe can, Gen. 1.27, 28. compared with Chap. 6.5. and with Jer. 17.9. as alſo with 1 Joh. 1.7.

96. Whether Pelagiamſm, that denies Original Sin, and makes death not to be the puniſhment thereof, but the meer neceſſary conſequence of nature only, be not a moſt dangerous Hereſie? and whether the doctrine of general Redemption, which grants Original Sin, but then takes it off again from all mankind, by attributing too large an extent to the death of Chriſt, be not every whit as dangerous? and whether both theſe Grand Hereſies, are not againſt moſt expreſs Scriptures? p. 161the firſt againſt, Rom. 5.12. & chap. 3.9, 10, 11, 12, 22, 23. Gal. 3.23. the ſecond againſt, Eſa. 53.11, 12. Joh. 17.9. Rom. 3.26. & 5.12. & 6.23. compared with, Gen. 2.17.

97. Whether the roarings which ſome men have in their Conſciences, when their own ſins and Gods wrath, are let out againſt them, even here in this Life, be not more hideous and lamentable, than thoſe that were made by the Bull of Phalaris, or the red-hot chains and grid-irons, that ſome of the holy Martyrs were broiled and fryed to death by? and yet how ſhort doth this come of Hell? Prov. 18.14. Mat. 27.4, 5. Mat. 22.13. & 25.41. Eſa. 33.14.

98. Whether force and violence, upon ſo tender a place as Conſcience, are not ſore temptations? and whether, while they cauſe men to ſin againſt their own light, they do not often occaſion far more grievous torments inwardly, than thoſe outward fiery p. 162tryals of affliction can poſſibly be, which they dread ſo much, and ſeek this way to avoid? Prov. 14.14.

99. Whether God be not as skilful, yea infinitely more skilful, to draw good out of evil; yea the greateſt good out of the greateſt evil, than men are to make ſoveraign Triacles out of ſtrong poyſons? Rom. 8.28.

100. Whether the blood of Chriſt be not the moſt ſoveraign Balſom? and whether it be poſſible for the leaſt wound, that ever ſin made, to be cured without it? and laſtly, whether Chriſt be not the beſt Phyſitian, as well as Chyrugion, ſince none that he hath undertaken, ever miſcarried under his hand, or ever can, Heb. 9.14, 22. Mat. 9.12. Luk. 10.34, 35. John 6.37.

XI. DECAD.

101. Whether all the Monarchies in the world, and millions more of the ſame kind, can bear equal weight p. 163with one dram of ſaving Grace? and whether they that make drudges of themſelves to get wealth, but never mind the ſalvation of their precious ſouls, do not ſell Heaven and Happineſs for a golden nothing, and ſo make ſad work for themſelves when they lye a dying? Mat. 16.26.

102. Whether a little Religion in great perſons, doth not go a great way, and ſhine far? and whether ſuch perſons, in the midſt of their many temptations from Honours, Riches, and Pleaſures, are not rather to be pittied and prayed for, than envied? 1 Cor. 1.26.

103. Whether Jeſus Chriſt be not worthy to be accounted and made uſe of, as the moſt illuſtrious and refulgent Jewel that can be worn, either in the boſom of Nobleſt Ladies, or on the Diadems of mightieſt Monarchs? 1 Pet. 2.6, 7.

104. Whether Glory doth not ſparkle in Grace here, as in a rich Diamond p. 164full of Angels, and Grace flame in Glory hereafter, as in a bright ſhining Sun? and whether that which is called Grace in the cradle, be not the ſame, that is called Glory upon the Throne? 2 Cor. 3.18.

105. Whether the poor Groom in the Stable, or the Scullion in the Kitchin, that hath true Faith in Chriſt, and ſincere Love to God, ſhall not be ſure of a place in Heaven, when the great Lord or Lady which he ſerves, having none of theſe Graces, ſhall never come there? Jam. 2.5.

106. Whether it be not great pitty, that one ſhould get into the Suburbs of Heaven, but never into Heaven it ſelf? and whether it doth not concern the fine-ſpun Hypocrite, and the great moraliſt, to think of this? Mark 12.3.

107. Whether every one ſhould not ſtrive to be better than others, and to ſet the livelieſt patterns of holineſs? and whether the lowly Grace of Humility, p. 165which like the delicate ſcented Violet, hangs its head neer the ground, and hides it ſelf as 'twere, ununder its own leaves, be not as ſweet as any of the taller graces? Tit. 2.7. & 3.1. 1 Cor. 14.12. alſo, Prov. 15.33. and 22.4. 1 Pet. 5.5.

108. Whether many Heathen, for their moral vertues, did not out-do many of thoſe, that in our dayes, go by the name of Chriſtians? and whether it be not beſt, ſo to live alwayes, as one would wiſh to have lived when he comes to dye? Mat. 11.21.

109. Whether he takes not the moſt deſirable journey, and hath not the beſt company for his fellow-travellers, that goes towards Heaven, and gets thither at laſt, though ſometimes his way be dirty? Mat. 7.14. compared with, Prov. 3.17.

110. Whether the Saints do not alwayes walk with the beſt guards; for while wicked men are attended with p. 166none but the Devil and his Imps, are not they ever ſurrounded with the holy Angels, and with God to boot? Pſal. 91.9, 10, 11, 12. Heb. 1.14.

XII. DECAD.

111. Whether it be not the wiſeſt way to get preferment in that Court, where all are Kings? and whether a Believers Crown of Thorns, that is lined with Diamonds, be not richer, and more eaſie, than thoſe Crowns of Diamonds that are lined with Thorns? Rev. 1.6. Mat. 13.7, 22.

112. Whether any Garden or Gallery, be ſo pleaſant, ſweet, and ſtately to walk in, as where Chriſt and his Spouſe are wont to meet? and whether any nouriſhment be ſo deſirable, as that honey and milk which they eat of, and thoſe ſpiced Wines which they drink? Cant. 5.1. & 7.5. & 8.2. Eſa. 25.6.

113. Whether the Citizens Merchandize, or the Countrey-mans Husbandry, p. 167the Gentlemans Revenues, and the Poor mans Labours, are not more or leſs proſperous, ſweet and comfortable, as they have more or leſs intereſt in God, and converſe with him? Deuter. 28.2, to 21.

114. Whether any calling, imployment or buſineſs, can be warrantable, which one cannot in Faith pray for, and expect a bleſſing on? and whether Stage-Players, makers of Popiſh Pictures and Images, and many others, are not concerned in this Quaery? Rom. 14.23. Eſa. 44.9, to 21.

115. Whether a ſecret curſe doth not the ſame in ſome mens great Eſtates, that worms do at the roots of faireſt flowers? and whether every thing on this ſide Heaven, be not either a Feather or a Thorn, vanity or vexation of ſpirit? Prov. 3.33. Mal. 2.2. Job 20.26. Eccleſ. 1.2, 14.

116. Whether holy tears have not a ſhrill voice? and whether a right Prayer indeed comes not into Gods p. 168ear, as ſoon as it is out of a Believers heart? Pſal. 6.8. Eſa. 65.24.

117. Whether one affectionate warm active Chriſtian, among many cold ones, be not like one live coal, that enkindles many dead ones? and like a load-ſtone, in the midſt of many needles, which draws and gives magnetique touches to them all, by vertue whereof, they draw others likewiſe? 1 Cor. 11.1. Heb. 3.13. John 1.43, to 47. Act. 18.24, to 28.

118. Whether paſſions out of order, are not like fire out of the chimney? and whether all care ought not to be uſed to keep them within their due place and compaſs? Jam. 1.19, 20. & 3.5, 6. Eph. 4.26.31.

119. Whether it be not the duty of Husbands and Wives, not only to pray for and with one another, at times of ordinary addreſs to God, but alſo at ſpecial ſeaſons in their retirements, frequently ſet apart for that purpoſe betwixt themſelves? and p. 169whether this be not an excellent means to procure bleſſings upon, and to keep all things in ſweet harmony in their Families? Zachar. 12.11, 12, 13, 14. Luke 1.6.

120. Whether the Husband ought not to dwell with his Wife as a man of knowledge, and to be a good guide and head to her? and whether the Wife by her vertues, ſhould not become a Crown to her Husband? and whether in this caſe, the Head and the Crown be not well met? 1 Pet. 3.7. Prov. 12.4.

XIII. DECAD.

121. Whether Kings, Princes, and Nobles, have not the greateſt opportunities of doing good in their Generations? the greateſt obligations upon them towards God? and the greateſt accounts to make to him? Eſa. 49.23. Pſal. 101. throughout, & Pſal. 34.11. 2 Chron 29.36. Eſth. 4.13. Nehem. 1.4. Luk. 1.3.

p. 170122. Whether Judges and Lawyers, of all others, have not the moſt frequent and lively repreſentations of the day of Judgement before their eyes? and whether ſuch of them as take Bribes, give wrong Judgement, undertake bad Cauſes, and refuſe to plead good ones, ſhall not certainly come to their tryal, at that High Tribunal? 2 Chron. 19.6. Levit. 19.15. Prov. 31.9. Eſa. 1.17, 23. Deut. 25.1. alſo, Pſal. 94.21. Eſa. 5.23. Heb. 10.30.

123. Whether thoſe are not weak Nets, or thoſe Nets not well managed, which will catch and hold little fiſhes only, but not great ones? and whether thoſe Laws are not as weak, or at leaſt weakly executed, that catch little offenders only, but let great ones eſcape? 1 Sam. 8.3. Eſa. 29.21.

124. Whether the pardoning of many and great crimes, be not ſometimes very ſeaſonable and neceſſary? and whether this be not to imitate p. 171God himſelf, in one of his moſt Royal Prerogatives? 2 Sam. 19.21, 22, 23. Prov. 10.12. Exod. 34.7. Jer. 50.20.

125. Whether he that is implacable againſt another, that hath cauſleſly offended him, ſo as never to pardon nor forget the wrong done to him, hath any reaſon to hope for mercy from God, whom himſelf offends daily and hourly? Rom. 1.31. Luk. 17.2, 3. Mat. 6.14, 15. 2 Cor. 2.7.

126. Whether he that prays God would forgive him, as he forgives others (whom he neither doth forgive, nor ever will) doth not thereby give anſwer to himſelf, and conclude never to be forgiven? or at leaſt, doth not his tongue contradict his heart? and that in the ſight of him who knows all hearts? Mat. 6.12, 13, 14, 15. Act. 15.8. Luk. 6.37. & 11.4.

127. Whether ſome men do not ſin fearfully, by raſh vows, and obſtinate reſolutions, without and againſt all rule or preſident from the Word p. 172of God? and whether ſuch men fall not into dreadful ſnares thereby? or can have any other way to deliver themſelves from the ſin or danger thereof, but by repenting with all ſpeed, and nullifying ſuch unwarrantable vows and reſolutions? Judg. 11.39. Act. 9.23, 24. & 23, 12, 13, 14.

128. Whether it be not an unparallel'd, both crime, folly and cruelty, to be irreconcileable to another for the ſame faults, (or perhaps leſs) that ones ſelf either is or hath been guilty of, and yet reckon upon going to Heaven at laſt, without any greater (or perhaps not ſo great) evidence of repentance or reformation, than the Party he is ſo irreconcileable to doth give? Mat. 18.32, 33, 34, 35.

129. Whether a mans own Conſcience be not a Law, a Witneſs, and a Judge to himſelf? and whether the Righteous God doth not paſs the ſame Sentence upon a man, that his own conſcience doth? Prov. 14.14. p. 173Rom. 2.14, 15, 16. 1 Joh. 3.20, 21.

130. Whether it be likely that he, who at any time thinks it too ſoon to repent, or thinks it ſoon enough to repent at any time, means ever to repent at all? and whether any man be truly wiſe, but he that is wiſe at laſt, and ſo wiſe for eternity? Heb. 3.7, to 16. Rom. 2.5. Prov. 19.20. Deut. 32.29.

XIV. DECAD.

131. Whether part of a good Mothers imployment, ſhould not be a conſtant endeavour to inſtil knowledge and grace into her Childrens hearts? and the like of a Miſtris to her Maidens? Prov. 31.1. 2 Tim. 1.5.

132. Whether a diſobedient Child, that truly repents, and endeavours to amend for the future, may not hope for mercy from his Father in Heaven, in caſe he cannot obtain none from his earthly Parents? and whether he that wants bowels to another in miſery, p. 174may not fear he ſhall find as little favour himſelf, when he ſtands moſt in need of it? Luk. 15.17, to 22. Prov. 12.10. Jer. 6.23. Jam. 2.13.

133. Whether it be poſſible for Children, by all the duty and love they can expreſs, to make full payment of what they owe to Parents? and whether they ought not to do their utmoſt to become comforts to them, and be grieved at the very heart if they have been croſſes? Luk. 15.18, 19.

134. Whether they are not the beſt neighbours, friends and companions, whoſe conſtant diſcourſe is moſt heavenly, and their examples moſt Holy? 1 Theſſ. 1.7.

135. Whether ſhe makes not the beſt Wife that hath two Husbands, one in Heaven as well as one on Earth? and whether ſhe can love the latter well, unleſs ſhe love the other better? Cant. 2.16. & 6.3. & 7.10.

136. Whether to match with Chriſt be not high preferment? and p. 175whether Gods moſt wonderful condeſcenſion, in accepting any poor vile mortal, and making one fit to become a Spouſe for his Son, be not a good document and inſtruction to thoſe Parents, that ſometimes find their Children match below their rank and eſtates, provided they meet with internal qualifications of mind, ſuitable and commendable in the want of other things? Mat. 22.2. Eſa. 54.5.

137. Whether pride be not a ſwelling tumour, moſt angry, fiery, and feſtering, and upon the worſt place of all, the heart? and whether reviling language doth not argue a bliſtered tongue, and ſlanderous lips cut like a Razor? Prov. 16.5. & 21.24. & 29.22, 23.

138. Whether any two that lye in a bed together, after perſonal and ſecret liftings up of their reſpective hearts to God, can ſpend their time better before they riſe, than by quickning each other with holy conference, p. 176and conſulting how beſt to ſerve God all the day after? Pſal. 5.3. & 63.6. Mal. 3.16.

139. Whether as ſoon as our eyes are open in the mornings, we ſhould not prevent Satan, by giving the firſt poſſeſsion of our hearts to God? and whether it be not needful alwayes, to ſet a watchful and ſtrong guard about them, to keep the Devil out? Pſal. 63.1. & 88.13. & 139.18. alſo, Prov. 4.23.

140. Whether the Prayer of Jonah out of the belly of the Whale, got not as quick to Heaven, and without wetting its wings too, as Solomon's did from the Holy Temple? and whether he that prayes moſt ſincerely hath not the ſweeteſt breath, as well as he that ſings moſt ſpiritually hath the ſweeteſt voice? Jonah 2.7. Cant. 2.14. Rev. 5.8.

XV. DECAD.

141. Whether God in his appointed p. 177time, will not fully vindicate the …onour of his own holy Ordinances, upon the prophaners, deſpiſers, and contemners of them? and whether …e hath not done ſo ſooner or later, …n all foregoing Ages? Malech. 1.7. Iſa. 5.24. Ezek. 22.8. Amos 2.4, 5. 1 Cor. 11.30.

142. Whether a quiet, but evil Conſcience, be not an Ulcer moſt dangerous, and of all others, the moſt incurable? Prov. 18.14. Mat. 2.5. Gen. 4.13, 14.

143. Whether he be not the beſt Soldier, that maintains a ſpiritual warfare againſt Sin, Satan, and his own evil heart? 1 Tim. 1.18, 19. Eph. 6.11, 12.

144. Whether the Devil, that old and ſubtile Serpent, be ſo able and cunning to deceive a man, as a mans own heart is to deceive it ſelf? and whether Satan, with all his temptations, can hurt us without our own conſent? and whether ſins are not p. 178greater or leſſer, as more or leſs o… our own will is in them? Gen. 3.13. compared with, Jerem. 17.9. Jam. 1.14.

145. Whether Godlineſs be not an hard trade or myſtery, to be diligently and carefully learned? and whether that Apprentice deſerves, or can expect to live well hereafter, that trifles away his opportunity, and is not induſtrious to get the myſteries of his Trade before his time be out? 1 Tim. 3.16.

146. Whether all the moſt precious commodities that Merchants, Goldſmiths and Jewelers deal for, are not ſorry wares, in compariſon of thoſe that a good Chriſtian trades for with Heaven? Prov. 3.13, 14. Mat. 13.45, 46.

147. Whether it be not a miſerable thing, for one to have the chief work for his ſoul to do, when the glaſs of his Life is run out? and whether it be not in vain for him then to call time p. 179again? Heb. 3.7, 13. & 12.17.

148. Whether that ſtubborn Impe…itent, which would not be reclaimed in his life-time, by all counſels and entreaties whatſoever, might not thank, himſelf for thoſe horrors, which cauſed him to cry out at his laſt breath, Oh! that I had been made a toad under a block, when I was made a man? Prov. 1.24, to 32.

149. Whether mutual admonitions, reproofs and exhortations, are not duties that lye on all men in their fit ſeaſons? and whether, when they are wiſely placed, they are not like Apples of gold with Pictures of ſilver? Heb. 3.13. & 10.25. Tit. 3.10.

150. Whether the weakeſt men, are not ſooneſt and moſt invincibly conquered by their own paſſions? and whether he be not the greateſt ſlave of all, that is a ſlave to his own luſts? Eccleſ. 7.9. Prov. 14.17. Rom. 7.14, 23.

p. 180XVI. DECAD.

151. Whether he be not guilty of an high affront againſt God, that will not be prevailed with to imitate him, ſo glorious a pattern, in pardoning offenders, and ſhewing mercy to ſuch as have need of it? Luk. 6.36, 37, 38. compared with, Prov. 1.29, 30, 31.

152. Whether he that moſt ſympathizeth with the poor ſuffering Servants of Jeſus Chriſt (be they hungry, naked, ſick, or in Priſon) according to his ability, ſhall not be well payed in the other world? Mat. 25.34, to 41.

153. Whether he that wants ſuch a ſympathizing heart as aforeſaid, and is not ready to the utmoſt of his power, to give eaſe and ſuccour to the ſaid ſuffering Members of Chriſt, may in charity be ſuppoſed to be any true integral part of Chriſts myſtical Body? 1 Cor. 12.26, 27. Eph. 4.25. & 5.30.

154. Whether Jeſus Chriſt doth p. 181not improve all the intereſt that he hath in Heaven, for the good of his Redeemed Ones, the intereſt of his God-head, the intereſt of his Son-ſhip, the intereſt of his Mediator-ſhip? and whether he doth not deſerve, that they alſo ſhould improve all the intereſt they have in this world, for him? Joh. 17.12, to 26. Heb. 6.20. & 7.25. Pſal. 116.12, 13, 14.

155. Whether he that hath a great Eſtate, but not an heart to improve it for God, were not much better be without it? and whether he that hath both theſe, doth not either find or make opportunities, to expreſs his great love to Chriſt this way, and ſo not only brings a bleſſing upon what he enjoyes here, but layes up vaſt treaſures for himſelf hereafter? Luk. 16.19, to 26. compared with, Luk. 19.8. & Mark 10.21. and with Luk. 16.9.

156. Whether if Darius an Heathen Prince, thought the Preſent of an handful of cold water offered him in his Progreſs by Sinetas a poor Shepherd, (for want of ſomething better) worthy to be received into a cup of gold, and then the cup it ſelf to be given to him (as Aelian reports in his various Hiſtory) will not the great God much more reward him that gives but a cup of cold water (if he be able to give no better thing) to one that bears the name of a Diſciple? Mat. 10.42.

157. Whether he that doth good with what he hath, according to his ability, while he lives, be not the beſt Executor to his own Eſtate? and whether he that is moſt rich in good Works, be not the richeſt man? 1 Tim. 6.18, 19. Rev. 14.13.

158. Whether Covetouſneſs be not Idolatry, and ſuch Idolatry, as of all others, hath moſt worſhippers, and moſt hearty ones? and whether ſome rich pinching muck-worms, though they pay all men their dues, yet may not dye much in debt, viz. to their own backs and bellies? Coloſ. 3.5. Eccleſ. 5.11.

159. Whether unjuſt and cruel gripers and graſpers, as well as profuſe waſters of Eſtates, have not ſad accounts to make? and whether this Epitaph may not be written on their grave-ſtones, Here lyes the worlds rich fools, who dyed miſerable poor men? Luk. 12.20. Eccleſ. 2.18, to 24.

160. Whether King Cyrus his kiſſes to his Favorites, were not of greater value than the golden Cups he gave to ſtrangers (as Xenophon reports?) and whether Gods ſpecial love, be not much more deſirable than his common mercies? Exod. 19.5. Cant. 1.2.

XVII. DECAD.

161. Whether honeſt thrift, and ingenuous induſtry in mens particular Callings (alwayes provided that God hath his due ſhare of their hearts, and their time in his Service) are not great gatherers, and fill not the bag apace? p. 184and whether that which men get by lying, cozening, cheating, and ſtealing, is not wont to be put into a bag that hath many holes in it? Prov. to. 4. & 12.24, 27. & 22.29. alſo, Micah 6.10, 11, 12. Hag. 1.6.

162. Whether a good Conſcience be not a Nightingale, that ſings all the year long in a mans own boſom? the beſt and moſt ſure friend in evil times? and a continual Feaſt, affording the daintieſt diſhes in their proper ſeaſons? Act. 23.1. & 24.16. Rom. 9.1. 2 Cor. 1.12. 1 Tim. 1.5, 19. & 3.9. 2 Tim. 1.3. Heb. 13.18. 1 Pet. 3.16, 21. Prov. 15.15. & 14.14.

163. Whether the loſs of ones inward peace, for the greateſt profits and preferments in the world, can poſſibly be recompenſed thereby, or be recovered again with eaſe? Mat. 16.26.

164. Whether temporal things, are not firſt deſired, and then had, but ſpiritual things firſt had, and then deſired? p. 185and whether true deſires of Grace, do not ſuppoſe and proceed from Grace? Neh. 1.11. Eſa. 20.8, 9. 2 Cor. 8.12.

165. Whether the Graces of the Spirit of God, may not ſometimes be found inviron'd with ill natures, and thorny diſpoſitions, as ripe Strawberries among nettles, and under briry buſhes? 1 Cor. 6.10, 11.

166. Whether the higheſt ſtars make not the quickeſt motions, and heavy bodies, when neereſt their centers? and whether the holyeſt hearts do not the like, in their Heavenly motions towards God? Pſal. 63.8. & 143.6, 9. & 119.60.

167. Whether the ſpeech uſed by a Perſian Queen, when her King gave her a moſt coſtly Jewel to wear, ſaying, You Sir, are my only Jewel; may not moſt properly and truly be uttered by the Spouſe of Chriſt, to him her Soveraign Lord and Husband? Prov. 5.10, to 16.

p. 186168. Whether in times of deſertion, one may conclude, Gods face will not ſhine again, any more than by a dark Night, that the Sun will not return in the Morning? and whether a burning-glaſs, that hath nothing in it at mid-night, may not the next day, be full of condenſed and flaming beams? Pſal. 30.5. & Pſal. 4.6. & 80.3, 19. Eſa. 54.6, 7, 8. & 57.17, 18.

169. Whether a gracious heart, may not interchangeably enjoy aſſurance, and be troubled with doubtings? and whether Faith of adherence, be not a good relief in the want of aſſurance, though one ſhould live and dye without it? Cant. 8.5. Job 13.15.

170. Whether purity of heart and life, be not a moſt neceſſary qualification for Heaven? and whether thoſe that want this, or ſcoff at it, under the names of Puritan, Round-head, Phanatick, or ſuch other opprobrious terms, are ever like to come there p. 187without Repentance? Mat. 5.8, 20. & 12.14. alſo, Rev. 22.15.

XVIII. DECAD.

171. Whether Maſters and Miſtriſſes, are not anſwerable for the ſouls of their Servants, as well as their Children? and whether they ought not to train up them alſo, in the nurture and admonition of the Lord? Gen. 18.19. Joſh. 24.15. Pſal. 101.6, 7. Eſth. 4.16. Nehem. 13.19. Eph. 6.9. Col. 4.1.

172. Whether Servants, both males and females, are not then moſt diligent, faithful, and cheerful in their places; and do not then give that reſpect and reverence which is due unto them they ſerve, when they remember, well conſider, and practice what God requires of them in his Word, eſpecially in, Eph. 6.6. & Coloſ. 3.22. Tit. 2.9, 10. where they are commanded to obey their Maſters in all things, not with eye-ſervice, as men-pleaſers, but in ſingleneſs of heart, fearing God?

p. 188173. Whether the world hath not as much need of the labour of the poor, as of the wealth of the rich? and whether the inclining of all ſorts of perſons reſpectively, to a natural affectation to, and delight in, the ſeveral Callings and imployments which they voluntarily chuſe, how mean, baſe, and ſervile ſoever they are, be not a great argument of the wiſe and wonderful Providence of God, over-ruling particulars, for the good of the whole? Eſa. 28.24, to 29. & Gen. 4.20, 21, 22. Act. 17.26.

174. Whether he be not the beſt Scholar that hath moſt learned Chriſt? and the beſt read in the Scriptures, that is moſt guided by them? Act. 4.13. Eph. 4.21. 2 Tim. 3.15, 16.

175. Whether the pureſt and ſweeteſt knowledge be not derived from Gods own Book, the Bible? and whether there only are not the richeſt Mines to dig in? the fulleſt ſtores and magazines, of all deſirable good p. 189things? Prov. 2.1, to 10. Pſal. 19.7, to 11. Coloſ. 3.16.

176. VVhether the light of Gods countenance cannot make day in the darkeſt ſoul at mid-night? and one kind word from him, revive the heart in the midſt of the pangs of death? and whether he be in any danger of ſinking, that is ſupported with everlaſting arms? or of fainting, that is refreſhed with the cordials of Divine Love? Pſal. 4.6. & 27.1. & 36.9. Can. 2.3, 4, 5. Eſa. 2.14. & 40.11. Deut. 33.27.

177. VVhether the ſame omnipotent Power of God, that is an hedge of protection to his People, and a wall of braſs for their defence, is not an hedge of thorns to ſcratch their enemies, and a wall of fire to devour them? Iob 1.10. Ier. 1.18, 19. Act. 9.5.

178. VVhether any one can poſſibly be devoured in a den of fierceſt Lions, or drowned in the deepeſt waters, p. 190or burned in the moſt raging flames, while God is there with him, and undertakes his ſafety? Dan. 6.22. & Chap. 3.25. Exod. 14.21, 22. Eſa. 43.2.

179. Whether the ſweeteſt nature, that can be found amongſt men, can get to Heaven without grace? and whether the leaſt degree of Grace will not meliorate and ſweeten the moſt crabbed and unpleaſing nature? Phi. 3.6, to 11.

180. Whether married or unmarried, young men or old, Virgins, Wives, or Widows, can live happily, or dye comfortably, without a ſure intereſt in, union to, and Communion with Jeſus Chriſt? Joh. 14.19. 1 Joh. 5.12. Cant. 1.2, 3.

XIX. DECAD.

181. Whether hardneſs of heart, and final impenitency, be not of all Judgements the moſt dreadful? and whether the ſerious conſideration thereof, would not damp the joy of the moſt riotous ſinner in the world, and make p. 191him tremble every moment, for fear of his dropping preſently into Hell? Rom. 2.5. Pſal. 7.11, 12, 13. Job 21.12, 13, 23, 24, 25.

182. Whether that conviction which ends not in true converſion, doth not ſtill leave a man under the power of ſin, in the gall of bitterneſs, and the ſtate of damnation? and whether convinced ſinners ſhould not look well to this? Mat. 18.3. Act. 3.19. & 8. 22, 23.

183. Whether he that never knows any more than one birth, that is, a meer natural birth only, be not ſure to dye three deaths, viz. a natural, ſpiritual, and eternal? and whether he that paſſeth through two births, and ſo is born again, ſhall not be ſure to eſcape the two later deaths, and find the other alſo upon the matter, no death at all, properly ſo called, but a ſweet ſleep rather? Joh. 3.3. Rev. 20.6. 1 Theſſ. 4.14, 15.

184. Whether the death of Infants, p. 192be not an unanſwerable Argument to prove that they have ſin in them, at leaſt Original Sin, as well as thoſe of grown age, for how elſe could they be ſubject to death, which is the wages of ſin only? Rom. 3.22, 23. & 5.12. & 6.23.

185. Whether a Believer, ſtanding on the mount of a Promiſe, may not from thence take a pleaſant proſpect of Heaven, and particularly of the glorification of his own humane nature, ſitting at Gods right hand, in the perſon of his Saviour? and whether after ſuch a fight as this, all things here below will not look dim and duskiſh, as colours do through Church-windows, when the Sun ſhines bright upon them? Act. 7.55, 56. Heb. 11.1, 13, 14, 15. 2 Cor. 5.1, 2, 3, 4.

186. Whether the ſame flowers, that ere while were ſeen under a warm and a ſhining Sun, to diſplay themſelves with great beauty and cheerfulneſs, may not hang dangling ſoon p. 193after with drops of rain, and be vio…ntly daſhed with ſtormy ſhowers, …om a black and tempeſtuous Heaven …ver them? and whether ſuch a …hange may not poſſibly befal the Graces and Comforts of Gods deareſt Children, and yet they remain his Children ſtill, as the other remain flow…rs? Pſal. 88. throughout, Eſa. 63.7, 8, 9. Jer. 31.18, 19, 20.

187. Whether in times of greateſt afflictions, and inward ſeeming deſertions, the Graces of holy hearts may not ſmell ſweeteſt, as Flowers do after ſhowers of rain, Spices, when moſt bruiſed, Roſe-waters, in the Limbeck, and Juniper-wood, in the burning flames? Pſal. 51.17. Cant. 2.14. & 5.5, 6. & 8.6, 7.

188. Whether the very excellency of holy gratitude, conſiſts not in this, viz. as faſt as our mercies grow freſh and new upon us, in what kind ſoever, to preſent them as ſo many new-blown flowers to God, to have the p. 194firſt ſmell of them? Eſa. 18.7. Pſal… 72.10. & Pſal. 76.11.

189. Whether Chriſt, and the Spirit of Grace, are not two great Comforters, as well by the appointment o… God the Father, as their own free conſent, in which Believers only have … ſpecial intereſt? and whether for this reaſon, among others, the four Occumenical Councils of Nice, Conſtantinople, Epheſus and Chalcedon, in cleering and eſtabliſhing the Doctrines of Chriſt his Divine Perſon, the diſtinction of the two natures ſubſiſting in it, and the Deity and Perſonality of the Spirit, againſt Arrius, Macedonius, Neſtorius, and the reſt of the Hereticks of thoſe times, did not eminent ſervice unto the Goſpel? Joh. 14.16, 17, 18, 26.

190. Whether it be not a moſt notorious abſurdity and contradiction to affirm, that the Spirit of Grace, which is ſupernatural, and altogether invinceable in it ſelf, can ever be ſo far reſiſted or quenched, as to be totally ex…elled out of that heart, where it hath …een once received in truth? and …hether the heart of man, being de…eitful above all things, full of imagi…ations, which are only evil, and that …ontinually, & ſo deſperately wicked, that …one can know it, can be ſuppoſed to have any the leaſt power to fetch in ſaving Grace of it ſelf? and whether he that aſſerts theſe two dangerous points, doth not, implicitly at leaſt, deny the abſolute freeneſs and unchangeableneſs of Gods love, and make his Acts of Grace vallid or invallid, according to the will of his own Creature? Gen. 6.5. Jer. 17.9. 2 Cor. 3.5. Joh. 15.5. compared with, Rom. 9.15. Mal. 3.6. Ezek. 36.31, 32.

XX. DECAD.

191. Whether ſanctified contentment, will not make every condition ſweet? and the contrary, make any thing, be it never ſo ſatisfactory and comfortable in it ſelf, burdenſom and intollerable to the reſtleſs mind? and whether true thankfulneſs or unthankfulneſs for mercies received, are not proportionable to theſe two? 1 Tim. 6.6. Exod. 16.2, to 22. Pſal. 106.24, 25.

192. Whether one may not be very poor and very rich at the ſame time? and whether ſome men in their rags, have not a great intereſt in God, while others in their ſtately Robes, have none at all? Jam. 2.5. Luk. 16.19, to 24.

193. Whether poor Servants, and others in loweſt condition, ſhould not take arguments from their own meanneſs here in this world, to ſeek after the Kingdom of Heaven the more diligently, that ſo they may have as large Revenues there as any others? and whether our Saviour doth not imitate as much, where he ſaith, the poor receive the Goſpel? Zeph. 3.12. Mat. 11.5. Mark 12.42. Luk. 4.18. & 6.20.

194. Whether Parents that have many Children, and but little or nothing to leave with them when they dye, have not the more need to ſeek after Portions of Grace for them, pour forth many Prayers, and exerciſe much Faith in the Covenant of Grace, on Grace on their behalf? Gen. 17.7. Act. 2.39. Pſal. 37.29. 1 Sam. 1.27. compared with, Chap. 2.7. Gen. 48. throughout.

195. Whether Faith in Chriſt, the great Saviour and deliverer of mankind, be not the beſt Midwife to women in travel, and the beſt Nurſe for them and their Children afterwards? and whether their chiefeſt care ſhould not be to make ſure of this Midwife and Nurſe, above all others? 1 Tim. 2.15. Pſal. 91.14, 15, 16.

196. Whether idleneſs be not the Devils cuſhion? and whether ſlothfulneſs doth not gather f…lth, as ſtanding waters do mud? Ezek. 16.49. 1 Tim. 5.13.

197. Whether a firm perſwaſion of Gods omniſcience, omnipreſence, hatred of ſin, and of his power and reſolution to puniſh it, where not repented of, would not prevent millions of ſins that are hourly committed throughout the whole world? Pſal. 50.21, 22. & 90.8. & 139.1, to 13.

198. Whether the bare believing that there is a God, that Chriſt is the Son of God, the Scriptures the Word of God, and that all men ought to walk according to them, be any other kind of faith, than the Devils themſelves have? Jam. 2.19, Mat. 8.29. & Chap. 4.6.

199. Whether to bear and forbear among Friends and neer Relations, be not excellent and moſt neceſſary duties? and yet how difficultly are they learned? and how few are there that practice them well? Rom. 15.1. Gal. p. 1996.2. Epheſ. 4.2. Coloſ. 3.13.

200. Whether growing in Grace, be not the only way to thrive? and whether he doth not become richer and richer that trades at this Mart, and without fear too of loſing what he hath already got? 2 Pet. 3.18. Prov. 3.13, 14, 15. & 4.7, 8, 9.

XXI. DECAD.

201. Whether the Office of Ambaſſadors, the Arts, cares and pains of Shepherds, Fiſher-men, Husband-men, Carpenters, with divers others ſuch like, ought not to be known to, and imitated by thoſe Miniſters of the Goſpel, that have the overſight and truſt of Souls? and whether they are not the beſt Preachers that move the hearts of their Hearers, more than tickle their heads? 2 Cor. 5.20. Cant. 1.8. Mat. 4.19. 1 Cor. 3.9, to 14. & Chap. 2.4.

202. Whether the plague upon the Streams, Rivers, Ponds, and Pools of p. 200water, in the Land of Aegypt (Exod. 7.) were not as dreadful as any of the other plagues? and whether impurities in Univerſities and other Schools of Learning, be not as great a plague as that, and as much to be dreaded and prayed againſt? Pſal. 23.2. Ezek. 47.1, to 13.

203. Whether young Scholars, that take upon them the work of the Miniſtry, before they are well lined with Learning, and have thoroughly ſtudied the whole Body of Divinity, are not like new rigged Ships, that are put out to Sea, without ballaſt or burden?

204. Whether ſanctified Studies, in a Learned head and Holy heart, do not reduce Ethicks, Metaphyſicks, and Theology into one Science?

205. Whether many a ſweet kernel, doth not lye in the Criticiſms of the Original Languages of the Holy Scriptures?

206. Whether John Bradford, that bleſſed Martyr, was not worthily called p. 201Holy Bradford, who prayed as much as he ſtudied, did both upon his knees, and ſeldom or never ſat at meals without wetting his trencher with his tears, either of godly ſorrow for ſin, or from a melting warm love to God? Pſal. 6.6. Luk. 7.37, 38.

207. Whether he that delights in Hunting, be it for love of the Veniſon, or for ſport, can pick out more pertinent Scriptures to meditate upon, than the Preface of the 22. Pſal. where Chriſt is called the Hind of the Morning? and the firſt verſe of the 42. Pſal. where David ſaith, that his ſoul panted after God, as the Hart pants after the water-brooks?

208. Whether Gold-ſmiths can deal any where for ſuch pure gold, as is mentioned, Rev. 3.18. or the Vintner, for ſuch rich Wines, as we read of in, Eſa. 25.6. & Cant. 5.1. & 8.2. and whether it is not their chiefeſt wiſdom, to drive their whole ſtock there?

p. 202209. Whether a ſeeds-man ſhall not do well to conſider, that he that ſows moſt tears for ſin, ſhall have the richeſt crop? and the Ploughman, that his Plough in the field will ſpeed much the better, when he is careful in the due ſeaſons of it, to Plough up the fallow ground of his own heart too? Pſal. 126.5, 6. Jer. 50.4, 5. Luk. 6.21. alſo, Jer. 4.3. Hoſ. 10.12.

210. Whether there be juſt reaſon for any to deſpair, ſince it is not poſſible for the ſins of any to be ſo great or numerous, as Gods mercies are infinite? and theſe moſt freely offered to them that have the greateſt need of them? Eſa. 55.1, 2, 5, 7, 8, 9, 10. 2 Sam. 24.14. 1 Chron. 21.13. Mat. 11.28, 29. Joh. 6.37. Heb. 4.16. Rev. 22.17.

XXII. DECAD.

211. Whether the Pope be not Antichriſt in the Judgement of Ribera himſelf, though a Ieſuit, and many p. 203others of their own moſt learned Writers?

212. Whether the ſlaughter of the Witneſſes, be not the immediate forerunner of the downfal of Antichriſt, though the darkeſt diſpenſation is not the inlet of the happieſt times that ever the world yet ſaw? and whether the duration thereof will not certainly end at three years and an half from the true Epocha and beginning thereof? Rev. 11. throughout.

213. Whether the doctrine of the Spiritual Reign of Chriſt on earth for a thouſand years in a ſober ſenſe, were not a common received doctrine by the Fathers of the firſt ages after Chriſt? and whether he that conſults, Iraeneus, Tertullian, Lanctantius and others, without prejudice will not find it ſo? Rev. 20.6.

214. Whether the Converſion of the Iews, ought not to be believed and prayed for▪ and whether it be p. 204not propable, that one ſpecial means thereof may be by Chriſt his own appearing in the Clouds, ſo as every eye ſhall ſee him, as he did to Saul the Jew, when he was going to Damaſcus? Ezek. 36. & 37. throughout, & Chap. 39.23, to 29. Zachar. 9. & 10. throughout.

215. Whether the Society of the Jeſuits are not the richeſt, moſt ſubtil, potent, diffuſive and influential on the affairs of the whole world, of any others? and whether they ſpare for any coſt to procure, or want correſpondents to give them the knowledge of greateſt ſecrets in Princes Courts?

216. Whether all the Monarchs and States, both ſmall and great upon the whole habitable earth, have ſo many Emiſſaries and Agents abroad, as one ſingle man, the Pope? and whether they take not upon them all manner of names, ſhapes, habits, trades, and employments, where they come?

p. 205217. Whether the Pope his craft, in ſetting on foot and continuing the Holy War in Paleſtine for almoſt 200. years, was not as great as devout Bernards miſtaken zeal was, in promoting of it? and whether the Popes ever ſince, have not been as crafty Foxes for themſelves, among the Princes of Europe?

218. Whether ſuch unparallel'd uſurpations, inſolencies, uncleanneſſes, Sodomies, ſorceries, witchcrafts, cruelties, blaſphemies, and all manner of moſt horrible impieties, have been ever found among any ſort of men ſince the Creation of the world, as among the Popes?

219. Whether Pope Alexander the 6th. was not rightly ſerved, while himſelf was poyſoned with the firſt draught of that Cup, which he and his complices had prepared to poyſon others?

220. Whether Caeſar Borgia his Son, the Duke of Florens, among all p. 206the plots laid by him and his crafty Secretary, Matchiavil, committed not a foul error, in not thinking of, and providing for a ſurprize by death? and whether himſelf did not ſee it, and repent of it, when it was too late, as the Hiſtory of his life witneſſeth?

XXIII. DECAD.

221. Whether much credit be to be given to the Popiſh Editions, of Ambroſe, Chryſoſtom, Jerom, Auguſtine, and all the reſt of the Greek and Latin Fathers, (whoſe Authorities they urge ſo much upon us) ſince their Index expurgatorius, hath been in uſe? and whether many of their Schoolmen, which they ſo much boaſt of, do not abound more with nice and needleſs diſtinctions, than ſound Divinity?

222. Whether Popery, ſpreading ſo greatly as it doth in all parts of the world, it be not a foul ſhame for Proteſtants to be ſo divided, and thereby p. 207weakened among themſelves? and whether it be not matter of ſport, even to Satan himſelf, to ſee what irreconcileable differences and ammoſities ſtill continue among them?

223. Whether God will long bear it at the hands of his own Children, thus in his ſight and preſence to quarrel, fall out and fight with each other? and whether, when nothing elſe will quiet and reconcile them, the Rod ſhall not? 1 Cor. 3.3. & 11.18.

224. Whether ſince Grace is the moſt uniting Principle in the very nature of it, and ſin the moſt dividing Principle, it is not juſt cauſe of wonder, that the People of God of all others, ſhould be ſo much divided, and wicked men ſo firmly knit among themſelves? and whether any reaſon can poſſibly be given for it, but the prevalency of ſin on their part, and Gods juſt judgement in permitting it, by way of puniſhment on his part? Rom. 16.17, 18. 1 Cor. 6.1, to 9.

p. 208225. Whether thoſe Scholars are not great waſters and abuſers of their time and ſtudies, who take much pains to get all manner of Learning, except the knowledge of the Bible and their own hearts?

226. Whether a Believers habitation, be not of all others, the moſt ſtately? and whether it be not ſeated in the fineſt air, and with advantage of the braveſt Proſpect? Pſal. 90.1. & 91.1, 9. 1 Joh. 4.16. Heb. 11.16.

227. Whether it be worth the while to live, unleſs it be to anſwer the ends of our Creation, and to be fit to dye? and whether Water-men, Marriners, and all that travel by Sea, have not as much reaſon as any, to be provided for death every moment? Jam. 4.14. Job 9.25, 26. Pſal. 39.4, 5, 6. & 90.4, to 13. Iob 14.14.

228. Whether the leaves of Trees, that fall ſo faſt in Autumn, and the ſight of a flouriſhing Garden, deprived of all or moſt of its fair Flowers, p. 209that ſtood there but an hour before, are not lively Emblems of mans mortality, and the ſuddenneſs of his remove by death, eſpecially in times of great ſickneſſes, and Epidemical diſeaſes? Pſal. 39.10, 11. & 90.5, 6. & 103.15, 16. Iob 13.25. Eſa. 64.6.

229. Whether among thoſe that attend at Funeral ſolemnities, there be one of twenty uſually, that make the ſad occaſion of their appearance there, the ſubject of their own thoughts, or the matter of their diſcourſe with others? and whether this be not an argument of a common, and very great inſenſibleneſs among men, of the ſtrokes of God upon them, and the hardneſs of their hearts under them?

230. Whether the higheſt Angels, & the loweſt worms, are not fellow-creatures? & whether there be not an infinite diſtance, as well between God and the higheſt creatures, as between him & the loweſt? and whether the conſideration thereof, ſhould not make poor p. 210mortals, even the greateſt that are, to walk humbly towards God? Iob 42.5, 6. Eſa. 6.2. Iob 15.14, 15, 16.

XXIV. DECAD.

231. Whether a clear and full ſight of God, be not the only way for a man to come to the right knowledge of himſelf? and whether this, of all things elſe, is not moſt to be deſired, and ſpeedily ſought for by him? Job 42.5, 6. Pſal. 139.1, to 18.

232. Whether they that bear the moſt eminent teſtimonies for Chriſt upon earth, ſhall not bear the biggeſt palms in their hands, and ſtand neereſt his Throne in Heaven? Rev. 7.9, to 17.

233. Whether it be likely, that they will ever be convinced of the evil of thoſe actions, which being once done, they are reſolved to juſtifie, and inſtead of amending, recriminate upon others? and whether it be not a moſt deplorable thing, that bitter exaſpirations, and mutual accuſations of this nature, ſhould be found among p. 211the differing parties of Gods own People, in times wherein all had need to ſeek peace with God and among themſelves, and do their utmoſt, by a meek healing ſpirit, to make up all breaches? 1 Cor. 3.3, 4. Gal. 5.10, to 16. & 6.1, 2. 1 Theſ. 4.9, 10, 11. Eph. 4.2, 3.

234. Whether God doth not touch the heart firſt, with his powerful magnetick Love, before it ever moves or can move in the leaſt towards him? and whether the eye of Chriſt, did not firſt ſpye Zacheus in the Sycomore-tree, Nathaniel under the Fig-tree, and Mary in the Garden, before ever they ſpyed him? 1 Joh. 4.19. Hoſ. 11.4. Luk. 19.5. Ioh. 1.48. & 20.13, 14, 15, 16.

235. Whether thoſe comforts that fail in the dryed ſtreams, as in the loſs of Husbands, Wives, Parents, Children, all other neer and dear Relations, Friends and Eſtates, with whatever elſe is of like nature, can be made p. 212up any where, ſo well as in and by the Original Fountain of them all, God himſelf? and whether it be not the greateſt wiſdom when all is done, to haſten thither with all poſſible ſpeed that may be? Iob 6.15. & 19.13, to 20. Prov. 23.5. Habak. 3.17, 18, 19. Pſal. 36.9, 10.

236. Whether to make an abſolute, free and full reſignation of ones ſelf, and all that one hath, to the Will of God, to be diſpoſed of as he pleaſeth, be not the only way to give him the Glory of his Soveraingnty? and whether to do or ſuffer any thing for him, with a willing and cheerful heart, doth not argue much Grace, and is not to be accounted an high Honour? 2 Sam. 15.25, 26. Pſal. 40.7, 8. Mat. 26.39, 40.

237. Whether they that follow Chriſt in good earneſt, do not deny themſelves, and take up their Croſs daily? and whether they are not in mind alwayes reſolved, ready and prepared, to part with Houſe, Land, Revenues, p. 213Eſtate, Liberty, and Life too, if called for, rather than forſake Chriſt? Mat. 4.20. & 16.24, 25. Mark 10.29, 30.

238. Whether every Promiſe, Propheſie, and Threatning in Gods Word, hath not hitherto been moſt punctually performed, in the due ſeaſon of it, in all former ages, even to a tittle? and whether there be any the leaſt reaſon to doubt, that what is not yet accompliſhed, ſhall be when the ſit time is come? Gen. 48.15, 16. Exod. 12.41, 42. Micah 7.20. 1 King. 13.1, to 6. compared with, 2 King. 23.4, to 9. Gal. 4.4. Eph. 1.10. Mat. 5.18.

239. Whether thoſe that have eſcaped from dangerous diſeaſes, long and waſting ſickneſſes, or death it ſelf, when they were without all hope or expectation of recovery, are not in all likelihood, reſerved for ſome great good or evil? and whether it be not a duty incumbent on them, to conſider much of it, and lay it to heart? Eſa. 38. throughout.

240. Whether Phyſitians, of all others, have not the beſt opportunities, ſometimes to deal effectually with the ſouls of their ſick, or dying Patients, about the matters of eternity, if they have but the heart and the skill to do it? and whether God doth not expect they ſhould improve this advantage for him, as well as for themſelves and their Patients?

XXV. DECAD.

241. Whether the guilt of very many of the ſins, both in City and Country, be it drunkenneſs, uncleanneſs, ſwearing, Sabbath-breaking, and whatever elſe is of like kind, doth not lye at the Magiſtrates door, unleſs he put forth the utmoſt Power that God hath given him, to puniſh and reform them? and whether God ever intended that he ſhould wear his ſword in vain? Rom. 13.1, to 8.

242. VV… her naked breaſts and black ſpots, do not argue foul hearts? p. 215and whether the Ladies that uſe them, would be willing to appear in ſuch a dreſs at the day of Judgement? or may not meet with ſore rebukes herealſo, as the daughters of Zion did, in Eſa. 3. from v. 16, to 25.

243. Whether wanton looks, wanton guarbs, wanton words, and wanton books, be not the Devils ſnares to catch, and the Devils poyſons to vitiate and deprave hearts? and whether all manner of unlawful ſports and games, do not inſenſibly undo thouſands here, and then before they are aware of it, trapan them into Hell, out of which there is no recovery? Eſa. 3.16, to 25. Rom. 13.13. Gal. 5.19. Eph. 4.19. 1 Pet. 4.3, 4. Job 21.12, 13.

244. Whether falſe wares, falſe weights, falſe lights, falſe meaſures, and falſe aſſeverations, are not too frequent in Trades-mens ſhops …nd whether the gain that com…s in that way, lyes not under an eating, (though haply p. 216at the preſent an undiſcerned) curſe? Prov. 11.1. & 12.22. Micah 6.10, 11, 12.

245. Whether nature will not be content with little, and Grace with leſs? and whether a Righteous mans little, be not more than a wicked mans much? 1 Tim. 6.6. Prov. 15.16, 17. & 16.8.

246. Whether Believers have not poſſeſſion of Heaven already, ſince their Head is there? and whether Chriſt be not gone thither before hand, as a Meſſenger or Harbinger, to trim up the Lodgings appointed for them, and to ſecure them for them, till they come themſelves? Joh. 14.2. Heb. 6.20.

247. Whether the ſoul be not a glorious Bride, when once Chriſt is become its Bridegroom; eſpecially ſince he marries it not in its own cloth…s, but ſuch as are fitted for it, out of the Wardrobes of Heaven? Mat. 25.10. Eſa. 61.10. Rev. 21.2.

p. 217248. Whether ſhe be not the moſt amiable Virgin, and will not make the ſweeteſt Wife, that hath Chriſt lying as an handful of Myrrh continually between her breaſts? Cant. 1.13. & 5.4, 5.

249. Whether early and young Saints, are not as acceptable to God, as rare and choice fruits, ſet ripe on a Princes board ſome weeks before the ordinary ſeaſons of them? Jer. 2.2. Eccleſ. 12.1.

250. Whether a Believer, brightly ſhined on by the light of Gods pleaſed countenance, and at the ſame time giving out the luſters of his inherent graces to ſtanders-by, be not a rich Diamond that ſparkles in the midſt of Sunbeams? Pſal. 31.16. & 110.3. Mat. 5.16. Phil. 2.15.

XXVI. DECAD.

251. Whether the People of God are not his Jewels? Mal. 3.17. yea, his Crown, his glorious Crown, and Royal p. 218Diadem? Eſa. 62.3. yea, his Crown-Jewels? Zach. 9.16. and whether he will ſuffer theſe his Jewels to lye long in the dirt, or this his Crown to be alwayes trodden under the feet of his enemies?

252. Whether God having freely and moſt ſtrongly tyed himſelf to his People, both by his Word, his Promiſe and his Oath (ſuch a threefold knot, as there is none like to it) be not greatly injured by ſuch as disbelieve, or make queſtion in the leaſt of his performances? Heb. 3.12. & 6.16, 17, 18, 19. Mat. 13.58.

253. Whether holy Meditations do not dwell on the very Hill of Frankincenſe, and on the Mount of Spices? & whether every buſie thought, like the nimble honey-Bee, doth not paſs from bloſſom to bloſſom, from flower to flower, that is, from one Promiſe to another, from one Providence to another, and ſo through the variety of all ſorts of pleaſant ſubjects, and p. 219gather ſweetneſs, till it hath filled its whole Hive (the heart) with the pureſt honey? Pſal. 104.34. & Pſal. 94.19.

254. Whether frequent and faithful examinations of ones inward ſtate, and how things ſtand between God and the ſoul, be not a moſt neceſſary and important duty? and whether this, of all things elſe, ought not to be moſt diligently minded, whatever elſe be neglected? Pſal. 4.4. 2 Cor. 13.5.

255. Whether Apoſtatizers, Timeſervers, and all ſuch as ſhamefully deſert their formerly received ſound Principles and holy Practices, do not conſult deſtruction to themſelves, and run the hazzard of thoſe ſore curſes, mentioned in, Deut. 29.21?

256. Whether he that abounds altogether in his own ſenſe; accounts whatever himſelf affirms to be as authentick as ſome divine Oracles is a…ry with, and ſeverely cenſorio… of, thoſe that do not, or cannot forſake their own Principles as all falſe, and embrace p. 220his as all Truth, be not guilty, at leaſt, of the ſuſpicion of Pride? or whether he be not a kind of little Pope, that pretends to infallibility, whilſt perhaps under ſtrong deluſion? and whether ſuch an one be not rather to be neglected, than diſputed with? Jam. 1.12. Prov. 21.24. 2 Theſſ. 2.10, 11.

257. Whether evil thoughts are not the ſpawns of ſin, and evil words and actions the products of thoſe ſpawns? and whether Cockatrices eggs, while hatched by Cockatrices, will not bring forth their own kind? Mat. 12.33, to 38. & 15.18, 19, 20. Eſa. 59.4, 5.

258. Whether every man ought not to be very careful what objects he fixeth his eye and his heart upon? and whether God be not King of hearts, and deſerves not that every man ſhould give him (not a part only but) his whole heart? and whether he that doth this, doth not take the wiſeſt courſe, to make the worſt part p. 221of himſelf to become the beſt? Iob 31.1. Pſal. 62.10. Prov. 23.26. Ezek. 36.26.

259. Whether being impoſed upon, in matters of Conſcience, where Chriſt hath left it free, be not as grievous and intollerable from one ſort of men as from another? and whether, if there be any difference, it be not moſt intollerable from thoſe that are, or have been, or at leaſt pretend to be Brethren?

260. Whether the right ſtating and granting of true Chriſtian liberty, ſo as to prevent licentious extravagances on the one hand, and unjuſt ſeverity on the other hand, would not be moſt ſatisfactory to all peaceably-minded good men? and whether till this can be done, it be not beſt for every one to think it poſſible, that he may be under ſome miſtakes as well as his diſſenting Brethren, and ſo reſolve to allow and receive a mutual freedom in following their reſpective light, and p. 222exerciſing a friendly familiarity, and hearty love towards one another? Gal. 5.1. Eph. 4.2, 3. 1 Theſſ. 4.9. Heb. 13.1. 2 Pet. 1.7.

XXVII. DECAD.

261. Whether the moſt exact platform of the pureſt Church, both for Doctrine, Worſhip, and Diſcipline, ought not to be the conſtant Rule, Standard, and Pattern to all the reſt? and whether ſuch a platform can be given by any, but God himſelf; or is to be looked for, or can be found any where elſe, but in the Word of God, and in that only? Exod. 25.40. Heb. 8.5. & 9.23.

262. Whether ſome Churches may not, as to eſſentials, be true Churches, though very corrupt, and ſo be far from conformity to their true Pattern, (as a leprous man is a true man, notwithſtanding his Leproſie?) but whether it be not the duty of every ſuch Church, to endeavour to their p. 223utmoſt, the neereſt agreement attainable to the pattern aforeſaid? Rev. 22.18, 19. Phil. 3.17.

263. Whether in caſe ſuch Churches, as are now laſt mentioned, do not profeſs they ought, or do not viſibly intend and endeavour in good earneſt, with all their might, to be every way like their Original Pattern, both in Doctrine, Worſhip, and Diſcipline; it be not the duty of every one that would live and dye with a clear and quiet conſcience, to come out from among ſuch Churches, and joyn with thoſe that come neereſt the ſaid Original Pattern? and whether this kind of ſeparation, even from true Churches thus corrupted, and willing to continue ſo, be not as juſtifiable as ſeparation from a falſe Church? yea, and whether ſuch a ſeparation as this, be not ſo far from being blame-worthy, that it is abſolutely neceſſary, and muſt be performed, by all that deſire to become Gods People, and would have p. 224him dwell among them? 2 Cor. 6.14, 15, 16, 17, 18.

264. Whether the great noyſe and cry that is abroad in the world againſt ſeparation, would not be much ſilenced, if once the above-mentioned Rule and Standard of the firſt pure Churches in the Scripture, were every where agreed to, admitted, and obſerved? and whether in the mean time, the Papiſts do not think they have as much reaſon to account Proteſtants to be Separatiſts, as ſeveral parties of Proteſtants do account each other?

265. Whether the ſight of any perſon or perſons, that are very poor, beggarly, hungry, ragged, naked, wounded, maimed, diſeaſed, deformed, or any way miſerable, ſhould not both occaſion pitty in us towards them, and excite us, as we are able, to comfort and relieve them; but alſo cauſe us to lift up thankful hearts, that we are not in their caſe? 1 Cor. 4.6, 7.

266. Whether all that Trade in p. 225Victualling, as Cooks, Vintners, Drawers of Ale or Beer, and ſuch like, do not put the poyſon of a Curſe into their own diſhes and Cups, while they ſo greatly contribute to the ſinful waſte of the good Creatures of God, in ſupplying their gluttonous and drunken Gueſts with whatever they call for, till they become no better than brutes in diſgorging themſelves, and caſting out their filthy vomits? Eſa. 28.3, 8.

267. Whether ſanctification of Sabbaths, a right and holy participation of Sacraments, diligent reading and hearing of the Word of God, heavenly Conference, and other the like Duties, are not alwayes prized, attended upon, and practiced more or leſs, according to the meaſure of Grace received by any? and whether the want of delight in them, or the accounting them a burden rather, be not an ill ſign of an evil heart? Eſa. 58.13. Mal. 3.16. 1 Cor. 11.23, to 30. Jam. 1.21, to 26. alſo, Mal. 1.12, 13. Amos 8.5.

p. 226268. Whether a Believers, both Life and Treaſure, doth not lye hidden and out of ſight to the world, even as the roots of fruitful Trees lye under ground, and as gold and ſilver Mines run in the bowels of the earth undiſcerned and unthought of, by them that walk upon it? Coloſ. 3.3, 4. Eph. 3.8, 9.

269. Whether in long and lingering ſickneſſes, eſpecially if accompanied with much pain and anguiſh, a patient acquieſcency under the hand of God, a ſubmiſſive acceptance of the puniſhment of ones iniquity therein, and a cheerful ſatisfaction in the Will of God, who is pleaſed thus to uſe his Rod, be not an argument of a gratious frame of heart, and of a ſanctified improvement of the affliction? and whether the contrary frame of ſpirit, doth not produce contrary effects? Rom. 5.3, 4. & 15.4, 5. Coloſ. 1.11. 2 Theſſ. 1.3. 2 Theſſ. 1.4. Heb. 6.12. Jam. 1.3, 4. & 5.10, 11. Levit. 26.41. p. 227Job 1.21, 22. & 2.10. alſo, Eſa. 51.20. Jonah 4.9.

270. Whether the education of Youth, be not a weighty buſineſs, a great truſt, and a work that requires much care and diligence, wiſdom and skill to manage it? whether it be not an eminent ſervice (when well done) to Church and State, yea and to Chriſt himſelf too? and whether all Parents and Guardians of Children, Tutors in Univerſities, School-Maſters and Shool-Miſtriſſes, ought not to be earneſt with God in Prayer, for his conſtant aſſiſtance, and their comfortable ſucceſs therein? Prov. 22.6. Eph. 6.4. 1 Sam. 19.20.

p. 228Three concluding Quaeries.

1. VVHether Peter, Paul, and Barnabas in their times; Polycarpus, Ignatius, Tertullian, Cyprian, Athanaſius, in their times; Ambroſe, Chryſoſtome, Auguſtine, in their times; our Guildas among the antient Britains; our Engliſh Wickleife, and Tindal, Oecolampadius, Martin Luther, Philip Melancthon, Iohn Calvin, Beza, and the reſt of the moſt famous, both German, and French-Divines, in their reſpective ages; yea, and whether John Knox, John Reynolds, Jewel, the Rogerſes, our late Golden-mouth'd Preſton, Sibbs, Reverend Uſher, and thouſands more, the choiſeſt and moſt ſucceſsful Miniſters of the Goſpel, did ever blunt their own Holy Zeal, diſpirit their own frequent Preaching, and cooll the hearts of their Hearers, with reading every word from their written papers, and ſo turn their Sermons into Homilies? and whether, though in ſome caſes, to ſome perſons, ſome litle uſe of notes may be allowable, and convenient, yea, perhaps neceſſary; yet the conſtant and total uſe of them by others (as is practiſed by too many in this our preſent age) doth not argue lazyneſs, or an over-affected niceneſs p. 229and curioſity in words and language, rather then ſuch a Paſſionate deſire of ſaving ſouls, as becomes the faithful Ministers of the Goſpel? and laſtly, whether it be likely, that thoſe who accustom themſelves to this way of reading, rather then Preaching Sermons, while they are young, and their memories as well as other parts be quick and nimble, will leave it when they are old, or will be ever able to preach in the dark, or when their ſight growes dim?

2. Whether the Apoſtle Paul by his command of doing all things decently and in order, 1 Cor. 14.40. intended any more than the doing of all thoſe things only, which God by him his Pen-man had commanded and poſitively ſet down, and in the ſelf-ſame order and holy Method too, which he alſo had plainly and fully expreſſed? 1 Cor. 11.34. and 16.1, 2. Coloſ. 2.5. and whether it can be reaſonably imagined, that Paul gave authority to Titus, (Chap. 1.5.) to invent or adde any the leaſt circumſtance for matter or manner, in or about the Worſhip of God in Crete, more then what he had formerly appointed, and himſelf Practiced elſewhere? and laſtly, whether the Prohibition of the Apoſtle, in Coloſſ. 2. from ver. 8. to the end, That none ſhould be ſubject to Ordinances, according to the Commandements and doctrines of men in Will-worſhip, doth not extend to all following times, and all future Churches of Chriſt.

3. Whether he that diligently reads and conſiders the 6th and 7th Chapters of the Acts of the Apoſtles, will not find, That the only occaſion of Stephen the Proto-Martyr, being accuſed of Blaſphemy and ſtone… to death, was his bold and reſolute defence … the ſpiritual Worſhip brought in by Chriſt, in oppoſition to the Jewiſh Rites and Ceremonies, which though appointed by God himſelf at firſt, yet now are out of date & uſleſs? and whether this very thing was not one of thoſe pretended Crimes, that Chriſt himſelf was arraigned for in the High Priests Hall? as appears in, Mat. 26.57, to 69. compared with, Joh. 4.19, to 27. and whether a good cauſe with a mans own innocency in the ſight of God and his own conſcience, be not one great ſupport to him under the ſeverest cenſures, and ſharpeſt ſufferings he can meet with from this world?

FINIS.

End of the text · John Batchiler, The Virgins Pattern in the Life and Death of Susanna Perwich (1661)