A Light from Christ Leading Unto Christ, Classis 33

A Light from Christ Leading Unto Christ · Classis 33

p. 597The Thirty three Claſſis, or company of Queſtions.

Queſtion 1.

YOu have declared ſufficiently the generall duties both of ſuperiours towards inferiours, and of inferiours towards ſuperiours in generall; Now I pray you what are the particular duties of each to other according to their particular eſtates, Relations and Callings? And firſt in the Oeconomicall or houſehold eſtate, what are the duties of the Husband towards his Wife, and of the Wife towards her husband? Firſt the common duties of Husbands towards his Wife?

p. 598Anſ. But firſt of the common duties of the Husband towards the Wife, and of the Wife towards the Hushand; and of theſe I note theſe.

Firſt, Love a Roote uniting grace; their ſoules and hearts and affections, muſt be married together as well as their bodies;Gen. 2.24Gen 2:24 Ephe. 5.25Eph 5:25the Husband muſt love his wife, and the Wife ought to love her Husband above all others in the world.

Secondly, mutuall good will, or conjugall benevolence to be communicated each to other as the Scripture holdeth forth unto us.i Cor. 7.1, 2, 3, 4, 5. Prov. 5.18, 19. Prov. 2.16, 17, 18. Malac. 2 15 Jer. 23.241 Cor 7:11 Cor 7:21 Cor 7:31 Cor 7:41 Cor 7:5Prov 5:18Prov 5:19Prov 2:16Prov 2:17Prov 2:18Mal 2:15Jer 23:24

Thirdly, conjugall fidelity not communicating their bodies to any other as the ſtrange woman. But preſerving each others chaſtity according to the mariage covenant in thought, word, and deed, as being alwayes in Gods preſence.

Fourthly, in the mutuall communication of their goods, and all endevours for the due mutuall good,Eph. 5.33Eph 5:33 comfort and benefit one of another both for ſoules and body,Gen. 2.18 1 Pet. 3.7Gen 2:181 Pet 3:7 and good name and fame, as becommeth the Goſpell of Chriſt, and thoſe that are fellow helpers one of another and fellow heires of the grace of life.

p. 599Laſtly, mutuall cohabitation, dwelling one with another that they may be more conveniently helpefull each to other upon all occaſions with mutuall love and reſpect to each other,1 Pet. 3.7 1 Cor. 7.10 Ex. 18.7, 8 Ruth 1.161 Pet 3:71 Cor 7:10Exod 18:7Exod 18:8Ruth 1:16 Parents and kindred.

Queſt. 2. You have declared the common and mutuall duties of Husband to Wife, and of Wife to Husband now what are the ſinnes contrary to theſe duties, John 16.8John 16:8what light from Chriſt to reveile theſe to convince of theſe?

Anſ. There are divers ſinnes contrary to theſe, I will note but theſe fix.

Firſt,2 Tim. 3.22 Tim 3:2 a corrupt ſelfe-love of themſelves; and not one of another.

Secondly, a want or abſence of love, when Mariage is for by ends not joyned with true love one of anothers perſon, but rather of eſtate or outward worldly Profits or pleaſure, without true love.

Thirdly, hatred,Eph. 5.29Eph 5:29 diſagreement and diſſention, and unquiet quarrelling, ſuch as becommeth not Man and Wife.

Fourthly, denyall of mutuall benevolence forſaking the mariage bed, and ſo giving way to the devill to tempt to worſer wickdneſſe.1 Cor. 7.41 Cor 7:4

p. 600Fifthly, neglecting communication of goods and other mutuall helps and comforts in a fit manner.

Laſtly ſeparation one from another except neceſſity of calling,1 Cor. 7.51 Cor 7:5 require, or with conſent for a time according to the Scriptures.

Queſt. 3. Now you have declared the common mutuall duties betweene Husbands and Wife; what are the particular duties firſt of the Husband towards his Wife, what light from Chriſt to ſee theſe?

Anſ. The Husband is the head of the Wife,Eph. 5.23Eph 5:23 and love is an ingredient in every duty.

1 Pet. 3.1 Pet 3Firſt, the Husband is to manifeſt his love to his Wife in dwelling with his Wife as a man of knowledge,Gen. 24.67Gen 24:67 as a loving husband in a loving manner endeavouring to inſtruct his Wife,1 Cor. 14.35.1 Cor 14:35 yea, governe his Wife in love, to direct, guide, counſell, and adviſe her in all things neceſſary to be knowne both for this life and that which is come, and all in love.

Secondly, to cheriſh and give his Wife honour and reſpect as the weaker veſſell,Eph. 5.29Eph 5:29 and as one who hath given her ſelfe to him as her Husband under God; amongſt other for this end.1 Pet. 3.71 Pet 3:7

p. 601Thirdly, to preſerve, protect,Ezek. 16.8 Ruth. 3.9.Ezek 16:8Ruth 3:9 and defend her in all lawfull and convenient cauſes, according to his ability, eſpecially in the maintaining of her true chaſtity,Gen. 16.5, 6.Gen 16:5Gen 16:6 and honour, by all lawfull and good meanes; and more eſpecially in the houſe amongſt her ſervants, as Abraham did Sarahs honour and authority over her ſervant Hagar.

Fourthly,1 T…m. 5.8 Ruth. 3.1Ruth 3:1 providing her things neceſſary, according to his ability, that ſhee may finde reſt in the houſe of her Husband, to Gods glory, and the mutuall joy and comfort one of another.

Queſt. 4. I doe now ſee the ſpeciall duties of the Husband towards his Wife; what are the ſinnes of the husband contrary to theſe duties, what light from Chriſt to know theſe ſins?

Anſ. Firſt, not behaving himſelfe as a loving head to his Wife,Gen. 3.16 1 Cor. 11 3. 1 Tim. 2.11, 12. 1 Kings 11 4.Gen 3:161 Cor 11:31 Tim 2:111 Tim 2:121 Kgs 11:4 but to be as an inferiour contrary to the order of nature and Gods Ordinance.

Secondly, to be overmuch uxorious, fooliſhly drawne away by his Wife or Ruled by her to do that which is either unlawfull or inconvenient, diſhonorable to God or to himſelf, or hurtfull to any whatſoever, as Solomon doted in his old age.

p. 602Thirdly, to be too bitter and dominering and tyrnanicall over his Wife,Coloſſ. 3.Col 3 Ruling her not in love as a companion, but commanding her as a tyrant doth his ſlave, or compelling her to that which is unlawfull or uncomely in the ſight of God or man;Gen. 2, 18 1 Theſſ. 5.12.Gen 2:181 Thess 5:12 God having created her as a helpe meate for him, not as a ſlave under him, and him over her; but yet in the Lord as in other ordinances of Chriſt.

Fourthly, the Husband ſinnes in not providing for, protecting and preſerving his Wifes life, chaſtity and honour, by all lawfull and good meanes, according to his power in a convenient and fit manner; much more he ſins in proſtituting or betraying his Wives life, chaſtity or honour,1 Tim. 5.8 Levit. 19.29.1 Tim 5:8Lev 19:29 which for a Husband to doe to his Wife, is as baſe as againſt his owne child, and both abominable, and contrary to the holy Law and word of God.

Fifthly, to hate, ſtrike, or abuſe his own fleſh (which his wife now is by the Ordinance of God) 'tis againſt the Law of God and Nature it ſelf.Eph. 5.25.30.Eph 5:25Eph 5:30

Sixthly, and Laſtly, the Husband ſins if he neglect as the Prophet and Prieſt in p. 603his houſe to Pray for and with his wife,1 Pet 3.7. Job. 15.4. 1 Sam. 12.23. Phil. 4.13.1 Pet 3:7Job 15:41 Sam 12:23Phil 4:13 or reſtraine, prayer before God, that by ſtrength from Chriſt both Husband and Wife may better perform their duties in Gods ſight and enjoy Gods bleſſing upon their daily endeavours.

Queſt. 5. The Husband may hence receive a light from Chriſt, to know his duty to his wife; now what light from Chriſt is there ſhining forth in holy Scripture to ſhew forth the duties of the wife towards her Huband.

Anſw. Firſt, the wives duty is to love,Epheſ. 5.23 33.Eph 5:23 eſteem, acknowledge and honour her Husbahd as her Head, and Lord whom God hath placed over her,1 Pet. 3.6.1 Pet 3:6 and ſhe hath choſen as her Lord, far her Good.

Secondly the duty of the wife,Coloſſ. 3.18. 1 Pet. 3.1. 2, &c.Col 3:181 Pet 3:11 Pet 3:2 is to be ſubject and obedient to her Husband in all things lawfull are expedient in the Lord.

Thirdly the wife ought to be loving and amiable,Titus. 2.4, 5.Titus 2:4Titus 2:5 and delightfull to her Husband, ſeeking to win his love and affections more and more to her in the Lord, cheriſhing him in ſickneſſe,Prov. 5.19. Gen. 2.18.Prov 5:19Gen 2:18 and in health, as becometh a ſweet helper to him, according to Gods Ordinance.

Fourthly, the wives duty is to be p. 604helpfull as a Coadjutrix to her Husband in Government of the Family,1 Tim. 5.14. Prov. 31.10, 11, 12, &c.1 Tim 5:14Prov 31:10Prov 31:11Prov 31:12 not onelyonly as a good wife, for the eſtate, credit, and well-being of her Husband, and Houſhold, for their Bodies, Dyet, and Cloathing;1 Pet 3.7.1 Pet 3:7 but to be a Good Homekeeper, for Communication of ſpirituall good,Prov. 31.27, 28, 29, 30, 31. T…tus 2.4, 5.Prov 31:27Prov 31:28Prov 31:29Prov 31:30Prov 31:31 as well as corporall, to pray with, and joyn in Prayer with her Huſband and Family; to the joy of her Husband and Houſhold; whom ſhe helpeth to Governe in the fear of God, and that with wiſedom and underſtanding; many daughters do excellently, but ſuch a one ſurmounteth them all.

Queſt. 6. We conceive the wives duty to her Husband; now what are the ſinnes contrary to this; and what light from Chriſt in Scripture to reveale theſe?

Anſw. Firſt it is a ſinne in the wife, not to acknowledge her Husband for her head, and not to honour and reverence her Husband as her head,2 Sam. 6.16.20, &c.2 Sam 6:162 Sam 6:20 who is over her in the Lord, and by the Lords Ordinance; but to deſpiſe and diſhonour her Husband as Michal did David. Secondly,1 Tim. 2.12.1 Tim 2:12 It is a ſinne in the wife to domineer and uſurp authority over her p. 605Husband, and directly contrary to the Apoſtles Rule.

Thirdly, it is a ſin in a wife, to be of a contentious brawling ſpirit,Prov. 21.9.19.Prov 21:9Prov 21:19 & unquiet provoking diſpoſition in the houſe of her Husband, or toward her Husband; whereſoever a contentious woman is, there is like a continuall droping,Prov. 27.15.Prov 27:15 which rotteth and conſumeth a houſe to deſtruction.

Fourthly,Gen. 2.18.23. Eccleſ. 25. Prov. 31.12.Gen 2:18Gen 2:23Sir 25Prov 31:12 the wife ſinnes that is not a helper, and cheriſher of her Husband in ſickneſſe and in health; doing him good and not evill all the dayes of his life.

Fifthly, a wife ſinneth in helping, provoking,1 Kings, 21 25. and furthering of her Huſband to Commit or Act wickedneſſe, as Jezabell did Ahab, he ſold himſelfe to work wickedneſſe in the ſight of the Lord, whom Iezabell his wife ſtirred up.

Sixthly, It is a ſinne of the wife to be an unprofitable houſe-wife,Prov. 31.27Prov 31:27 either careleſſe or negligent at home, of her Huſbands Eſtate,Prov. 7.11.12. Prov. 12.4.Prov 7:11Prov 7:12Prov 12:4 not looking to the wayes of her Houſhold, or in often & frequent gadding from home, upon idle and unneceſſary occaſions, to the ſhame of her Husband, and neglect of her duty of Coadjutrix, or fellow-helper-ſhip in p. 606Government of the Family, to Gods Glory, and their mutuall good.

Queſt. 7. The Commom and particular duties of Husbands towards their wives, and of wives towards their Husband… you have revealed by light from Chriſt; now what are the duties of Parents, or Fathers and Mothers of Families, towards their Houſhold and Families?

Anſw. They are to Rule their own Houſes well,1 Tim. 3.4 Pſal. 101.1, 2, 3. &c Rom. 16.5.1 Tim 3:4Ps 101:1Ps 101:2Ps 101:3Rom 16:5 and to Govern them Religiouſly, according to the word of God; that their Houſe may be as one of the Churches of Chriſt.

Queſt. 8. In what particulars are they thus to rule and Govern their Families?

Anſw. Chiefly in thoſe four particulars, viz. Inſtruction, Correction, Proviſion and Example.

Queſt. 9. How and wherein ought Parents, and Maſters of Families, to Rule, and Order their Houſholds by Inſtruction?

Anſw. Not only by Commanding and taking Care, that their Houſhold and Family do Sanctifie,Gen. 20.10 Deut. 6.6, 7.Gen 20:10Deut 6:6Deut 6:7 and keep holy the Lords day, in frequenting the Publike Ordinances, but alſo Catechizing them imprivate,2 Tim. 3.15.2 Tim 3:15 and inſtructing them in the firſt principles of the Oracles of God.

p. 607Queſt. 10. In what Correction are they to exerciſe this Houſhold Government, what light from Chriſt herein?

Anſw. In exerciſing of diſcipline towards their Children and Servants; Firſt, in words,Mat. 5.22.Matt 5:22 wiſe Admonitions and holy Reproofes; not with reviling Termes, Curſing or Banning, as too many, but convincing reaſons out of Gods word. Secondly, with Moderate and Diſcreet Correction,Prov. 13.24. Jerem. 30.11. Prov. 22.15. Prov. 10.13.Prov 13:24Jer 30:11Prov 22:15Prov 10:13 not in mercileſſe rigour, and madd frenzie: But in meaſure, as God doth his Children, and in pitty and compaſſion, as ſorry for ſuch an affliction, that they have ſuch Children, or Servants ſent of God; who ſtand in need of the Rod moſt fit for the Aſſes back.

Queſt. 11. With what proviſion ought they to provide for, and order their Families with?

Anſw. That which is convenient and neceſſary for them,1 Tim. 5.81 Tim 5:8 Food and Rayment and comfortable reſt in due time.Prov. 31.15 &c.Prov 31:15

Queſt. 12. How ought Parents and Governours of Families, men or women to be examples to their Houſholds, Children or Servants?

Anſw. I Anſwer, they are to be leaders p. 608and patternes to their Houſhold Children and Servants, in their words and actions; eſpecially, in all the Practice of Chriſtian Duties, as becometh Saints of the Houſhold of Faith.

Queſt. 13. You have held forth the duties of Parents, of Families by a light from Chriſt; now what are the ſinnes which are contrary unto thoſe duties, and ſo a Breach of this firſt Commandement Honour thy Father and thy Mother; what light from the ſpirit of Chriſt to know the ſaid ſinnes?

Anſw. Firſt, Parents and Governours of Families do ſinne in not Commanding and cauſing Children and Servants to waite upon Chriſt in the publike Ordinances,Gen. 18.19 Joſhua. 24.25.Gen 18:19Josh 24:25 in not ſeeing them not onelyonly to come to the Congregation, but to abide there, not as ſome who bring their Parents, or Miſtreſſes to Church, and then ſlip out again, and go to what they ought not. Beſides this Parents and Governours of Families ſinne in not calling them to account, what they have learned and how they have profited, and what they have brought away of the Sermon.

p. 609Secondly, Parents of Families ſinne in not Catechizing,Gen. 18, 19.Gen 18:19 and Inſtructing their Children and Servants, in the Grounds and Principles of Religion, that they may be able to make a ſolemn profeſſion of their Faith,1 Pet. 3.171 Pet 3:17 when they are called to declare their knowledge, and to be approved for their admittance to the Lords Supper,2 Pet. 3.17 18.2 Pet 3:17 and to increaſe knowledge daily in their ſoules.

Thirdly,Prov. 23.13.14.Prov 23:13Prov 23:14 Governours of Families ſinne in not giving moderate and fit correction to Children and Servants, when need requireth it; when words and admonition will not prevaile,Prov. 10.1… Prov. 29.15.Prov 10:1Prov 29:15 then the Rod is Gods Ordinance, ſo it be ordered in a right manner; not to ſpare when neceſſity requireth.

Fourthly,Coloſ. 3.21.Col 3:21 it is a ſinne to provoke Children or Servants with reviling ſpeeches,Epheſ. 6.4.9.Eph 6:4Eph 6:9 or to correct immeaſurably without mercy, or without mingling, convincing reaſons (if they be able) that correction is juſt and to be ſubmitted unto as Gods Ordinance, for the better Inſtruction of Children and Servants in their duties.

Fifthly,1 Tim. 5.81 Tim 5:8 Maſters and Governours of Families ſin in not providing, for p. 610their Families, Children and Servants what is convenient according to their abilities.

As Phillip 3.17. ſo &c. As Gods Miniſters, ſpirituall Parents, ſo all others Examples. 1 Pet, 5.3.Sixtly, Parents and Maſters of Families ſinne in giving any evill examples to their Children or Servants either in their words or actions; either by ſinnes of Omiſſion or Commiſſion, by which their Children and Servants may be encouraged to any evill, or hindred, or diſheartned in what is good and well pleaſing to God in Chriſt; as ſpirituall, ſo corporall Parents ſhould be examples.

Queſt. 14. What are the generall ſins of Children, Servants, or any inferiours in a Family contrary to theſe duties, or to Superiours in this reſpect?

Anſw. To diſobey the lawfull Commands,Epheſ. 6.1.5.Eph 6:1Eph 6:5 of their Superiours, and eſpecially of Parents and Maſters of Families in any of theſe particulars.

Queſt. 15. The Common duties of Parents, and Governours of Families are this held forth unto us; what now are the particular duties of naturall Parents towards their Children, and what light from Chriſt to learn theſe?

Anſw. Divers duties of naturall Parents p. 611to Children are already expreſſed;Prov. 4.3.4 Pſal. 103.13, Iſaiah 49.15. Gen. 25.28 Prov: 19.18 Prov. 13.24. 2 Sam, 1….33. Job. 1.4.5. Prov. 20.6.Prov 4:3Prov 4:4Ps 103:13Isa 49:15Gen 25:28Prov 13:24Job 1:4Job 1:5Prov 20:6 we may now ſay, Firſt, naturall Parents duty is to love their Children, with a naturall & parentall love, affectionatly ready to do them good upon all occaſions, and being grieved when they do evill, as an affliction of God upon themſelves, correcting them in time, and eſpecially taking care to prevent ſin in them, and Gods Judgement for ſin upon them.

Secondly, to declare their love to their Children in nouriſhing them and bringing them up with fit education,Prov. 4.3.4.5.Prov 4:3Prov 4:4Prov 4:5 according to their calling.

Thirdly, in taking care to place them in ſome honeſt calling for which they are fit by naturall inclination and gifts, or with which their minde upon true information is affected, as convenient, and hopefully profitable for ſoules and bodies,Gen. 49.8, 9, 10. &c.Gen 49:8Gen 49:9Gen 49:10 and a comfortable lively-hood, when they come to mens eſtate; as Iacob gave his Sonnes callings in his bleſſing and care for them.

Fourthly, in taking care for them,Gen. 28. Gen. 24.1, 2, 3, 4, &c 1 Cor. 7.36.Gen 28Gen 24:1Gen 24:2Gen 24:3Gen 24:41 Cor 7:36 if God give ability and fitneſſe; to direct them in matters of moment, for their comfortable life, eſpecially in the Married eſtate, providing for them, as Abraham p. 612for his Son,Eccleſ. 7.25. Gen. 14.57 58.Eccl 7:25Gen 14:57 and the wiſe man for his daughter, not without her liking and conſent.

Fifthly, laying up and providing comfortably for their children,2 Cor. 12.14. Deut. 21.17. Gen. 49.3.4. 1 Chron. 5, 1.2. Gen. 17.23 Exod. 4.25 26. Mark 10.13.14. Luke 1.59.60. Epheſ. 6.4.2 Cor 12:14Deut 21:17Gen 49:3Gen 49:41 Chr 5:11 Chr 5:2Gen 17:23Exod 4:25Mark 10:13Mark 10:14Luke 1:59Luke 1:60Eph 6:4 as God giveth ability unto them in eſtate; reſpecting the Eldeſt, according to the right of the firſt born, if there be no juſt cauſe held forth in Scripture to the contrary.

Sixthly, as to procure for them (as children of beleevers born in the Church) the Sacrament of Baptiſme that ſeale of the Covenant as their priviledge (if God afford it, in a right manner) ſo to bring them up in the knowledge of Chriſt, that they may walke according to the Covenant.

Gen. 49.15.16. Heb. 13.20.21. Monica prayes for her Sonne Auguſtine, &c.Gen 49:15Gen 49:16Heb 13:20Heb 13:21Seventhly, to pray to the Lord for his bleſſing upon them, as the Patriarks, and Saints did of old; and the Children of God, of later Times in the Church.

Queſt. 16. You have held forth the particular duties of Parents to their Children; now, what are the particular ſinnes contrary unto theſe duties?

Anſw. Whatſoever is contrary to the duties before mentioned; as in briefe.

p. 613Firſt, not to love their Children,Mat. 7.9.Matt 7:9 and take care to provide for them.

Secondly, to hate them.Epheſ. 5.29. Eccleſ. 16.1.2 3.Eph 5:29Sir 16:1Sir 16:2

Thirdly, to love their bodies, or to take care for their outward temporall Eſtates; and not to take care for their ſoules, and Eternall Eſtate.

Fourthly to neglect Catechizing,Deut. 11.19.Deut 11:19 or Inſtructing of them.

Fifthly,1 Kings 1.6. Prov. 10.1 Prov. 29.15.17.1 Kgs 1:6Prov 10:1Prov 29:15Prov 29:17 to be too Indulgent towards them; Cockering of them, which often proves the undoing of Children, and griefe of Parents; the Child left to himſelfe, bringeth his Mother to ſhame.

Sixthly, to be too cruell,Eph. 6.4.Eph 6:4 and bitter in correction, or otherwiſe towards their Children,Coloſſ. 3.21.Col 3:21 provoking them to take thoſe evill courſes; which a wiſe and right Fatherly carriage towards them might have prevented; which is contrary to that Rule: Fathers, provoke not your Children, leſt they be diſcouraged.

Seventhly, in curſing,Rom. 12.14.Rom 12:14 or not praying, for their children, and not deſiring Gods bleſſing upon them; for if the Magiſtrate or prophet of God; the Civill and ſpirituall Father may ſinne in not praying for their civill and ſpirituall1 Sam. 12.23.1 Sam 12:23 p. 614children, then it muſt needs be a ſinne, alſo in naturall Parents.

Gen. 9.25.Gen 9:25For howſoever Noah prophetically curſed Canaan, yea, ſome others have in a propheticall manner, pronounced curſes to come upon the wicked; yet to curſes, as commonly wicked Parents and others too often uſe,Matt. 5.44.45.Matt 5:44Matt 5:45 is a grievous ſinne; and God many times brings the Parents curſes upon their Children.

Queſt. 17. You have manifeſted the duties of Parents towards their Children; now what light have you from Chriſt to hold forth in Scripture, the duty of Children towards their Parents?

Anſw. Theſe duties of children, may be branched forth into divers particulars.

Ruth. 4.15. John 14.31. Gen. 31.35. Gen. 46.29 Gen. 47.7. Malach 1.6. Gen. 45.8.9. Gen. 45.23. Gen. 44.30, 31.Ruth 4:15John 14:31Gen 31:35Gen 46:29Gen 47:7Mal 1:6Gen 45:8Gen 45:9Gen 45:23Gen 44:30Gen 44:31Firſt, the childrens duty is to love, honour, and highly eſteem of, and reverence their naturall Parents; although they themſelves be highly exalted, and their Parents be but of mean Eſtate; and to declare their honourable eſteeme of their Parents in all Words and Actions of reverence and reſpect, both in their preſence and abſence.

Secondly, childrens duty is to fear offending of their Parents, or grieving p. 615them by word or deed, in their preſence, or by any Actions,Leviticus 19.3.Lev 19:3 or behaviour in their abſence; thou ſhall feare thy Mother, and thy Father; I am the Lord; the Mother is named before the Father, becauſe children are moſt apt to diſreſpect their Mother; therefore the wiſe man he expreſſeth both together;Prov. 23.2….Prov 23:2 hearken to thy Father that begat thee, and deſpiſe not thy Mother, when ſhe is old, Let children not forget their duty herein.

Thirdly,Epheſ. 6.1.2, 2. Coloſſ. 3.20. Prov. 1.8.Eph 6:1Eph 6:2Col 3:20Prov 1:8 children are not onelyonly to love and honour, and feare offending, but alſo to obey their Parents in the Lord; the Apoſtle preſſeth this duty with the motive of a promiſed bleſſing, which is the firſt Commandement with promiſe (ſaith he) that it may goe well with thee, and thou mayeſt live long on the earth;Luke 2… 11Luke 2:11 and Chriſt himſelfe giveth an Example, when he was ſubject unto his Parents.

Fourthly, the duty of children,Prov. 1.8.Prov 1:8 is to accept off, and ſubject unto the inſtruction, and correction of Parents;Heb. 12.7.9.Heb 12:7Heb 12:9 as that which is moſt profitable for their good; being diſcreetly and in right manner performed.

Fifthly, the duty of children, is to be p. 616directed,Gen. 28.….2. Gen. 28.6.7.Gen 28Gen 28:6Gen 28:7 and adviſed by their Parents; with much reſpect, for undertaking Matters, of great concernment; eſpecially for their undertaking of marriage; good children will not be raſh in this without conſent of Parents, eſpecially religious Parents, who take care both of their ſoules and bodies; and the like reſpect ought Foſter children to have of their Guardians,Heſter, 2.7.20. and Foſter Parents, who religiouſly and carefully take care for their good.

Prov. 4.1.3. &c. Matt, 15.4.5, 6. 1 Tim. 5.4 Gen. 47.12. John 19.2…, 27. Gen. 27.34. Gen 48.12, 13. Gen. 14.12, 13, 14.15. &c. Prov. 31.28. Prov. 17.17. Rom. 12.10,Prov 4:1Prov 4:31 Tim 5:4Gen 47:12John 19:2John 19:27Gen 27:34Gen 48:12Gen 48:13Gen 14:12Gen 14:13Gen 14:14Gen 14:15Prov 31:28Prov 17:17Rom 12:10Sixthly, childrens duty is to follow Parents good Example, and to declare themſelves thankfull to their Parents; ſeeking their good, and taking care for them, if at any time they ſtand in need of cheriſhing or proviſion, for their comfortable lively-hood, in this life, eſpecially for the good of their ſoules. Chriſt tooke care for his Mother, even at his death.

Seventhly, children are to deſire, and eſteeme the Prayers and bleſſing of their Parents, to love Parents, Friends; and eſpecially naturall Brethren and Siſters, as moſt neer ein relation.

Queſt. 18. You have held forth the dut…es, now what are the ſinnes of Children, p. 617contrary to theſe duties of children to their Parents.

Anſw. Firſt,Mat. 10.37.Matt 10:37 for children to love their Parents above Chriſt, is a ſinne againſt Chriſt, and no true love to their Parents.

Secondly, not to love, or to hate,Levit. 20.9 Prov. 20.20 Deut. 27.16. Prov. 15.20. Prov. 23.22. Gen. 9.22.24, &c. Prov. 30.17.Lev 20:9Prov 20:20Deut 27:16Prov 15:20Prov 23:22Gen 9:22Gen 9:24Prov 30:17 curſe, revile, or diſhonour, deſpiſe, diſgrace, or be aſhamed of his Parents, is a ſinne, a fearfull ſinne; curſed is he that ſeteth light by his Father, or his Mother, and let all the people ſay, Amen.

Thirdly, To mock, ſcorn or deride Parents, is a fearefull ſinne; yea, not to cover, but to ſcorn, or deride, or deſpiſe them in their infirmities, this is ſinne.

Fourthly,Deut. 21.18, 19, 20. &c. Rom. 1.30. 2 Tim. 3.2. Prov. 30.17 1 Sam. 2.25.Deut 21:18Deut 21:19Deut 21:20Rom 1:302 Tim 3:2Prov 30:171 Sam 2:25 for children to be rebellious and to diſobey and ſlight the lawfull and good Commandements and directions of Parents is as ſinne, yea to deſpiſe to obey their Mother is a fearfull ſinne, and hath a terrible curſe foretold to fall upon ſuch children; The eye that mocketh his Father, and deſpiſeth to obey his Mother, the Ravens of the Valley ſhall pick it out, and the young Eagles ſhall eate it.

Fifthly,Prov. 5.1.Prov 5:1 children ſinne in not ſubjecting p. 618themſelves to the good inſtructions and good correcting of their parents,Prov. 5.11, 12, 13. Levit. 9.3 Prov. 31.1 2, 3, 4. Deut. 21 20. Prov. 28.24. Gen. 26.34 35. Genſ. 54.50, 51. Numb. 39.3, 4, 5. 1 Cor. 7.35, 38.Prov 5:11Prov 5:12Prov 5:13Lev 9:3Prov 31:1Deut 21:20Prov 28:24Gen 26:341 Cor 7:351 Cor 7:38 yea of Mother and Father.

Sixthly, children ſinne in Robbing of their Parents in diminiſhig any of their Parents goods in Drunkenneſſe, Gaming or any other way whatſoever, who ſo Robbeth his Father or his Mother, and ſaith it is no tranſgreſſion, the ſame is the companion of a deſtroyer; it is a ſin.

Seventhly, it is a ſinne to vow and promiſe or to ſettle mariage affections, or for children to marry contrary to their Parents good adviſe and againſt their good will and approbation, eſpecially being under their government; it was the practiſe of prophane Eſau himſelfe to his Parents; for the Father hath the right to give his daughter in mariage.

Gen. 74.12 John 19.27John 19:27Eightly, children ſinne in being unthankfull and unkind to their Parents, not taking care for them as Ioſeph for old Jacob, and Chriſt for his Mother; but neglecting Parents contrary to the order both of nature and grace.Mat. 15.5, 6.Matt 15:5Matt 15:6

Ninthly, to be without naturall affection to Parents,Rom. 1.31Rom 1:31 or to diſreſpect their p. 619prayer and bleſſing, is a ſin;Gen. 27.34 Heſt. 2.7 20.Gen 27:34 and they worſe then Eſau.

Tenthly, for children not to obey as Heſter did Mordecia, but to diſreſpect, or deſpiſe, or diſobey their Tutors or Governours, or Parents for their wiſe, juſt and wholeſome commands,2 Chron. 24.2.17 22. Gen. 12.5 Gen. 13.8 Prov. 18.19 Pſal. 33., 1, 2, 3. Gen. 27.412 Chr 24:22 Chr 24:17Gen 12:5Gen 13:8Prov 18:19Ps 33Gen 27:41 counſells and admonitions, or to be unkinde or unthankfull to any of them, or theirs for their care over them, or to be without love to Brethren or Siſter, much more to be unkinde, unquiet, or contentious, to quarrell, or as Eſau to malice or hate one another, all this is ſinne and ſubjects to the curſe of God.

Queſt. 19. Now have received from Chriſt the great Prophet out of the holy Scripture of truth, what is the duties of Parents to children and of children to their Parents, declare I pray you by light from Chriſt; what is the meanes to inable children to practize theſe duties to Gods glory and their Parents comfort, and comfort of their own ſoules?

Anſ. It is not in man to direct his ſteps,Jer. 10.23Jer 10:23 neither can Parents or children performe their duties by ſtrength of their owne; therefore both Parents and children muſt waite on Chriſt in his p. 620Ordinances,Iohn 1.12 Iohn 1.16 Iohn 15.5 Phil. 4.13 Malac. 4.2John 1:12John 1:16John 15:5Phil 4:13Mal 4:2 and receive dayly ſtrength of grace from Chriſt to walke comfortably with Chriſt in their duties; for without Chriſt wee can doe nothing; but in and by Chriſt wee may doe all things as the Apoſtles witneſſeth of himſelfe. Chriſt is the Sunne of Righteouſneſſe, who commeth with healing in his Wings, not onelyonly to heale our natures, but to enlighten, and warme and quicken the ſoules of his children in the performance of every duty. Grace in children is the beſt riches, the beſt portion; the ſame in Parents.

Queſt. 20. The mutuall dutiet of Parents to children, and of children to Parents being thus held forth; declare I pray you the duties of maſters and miſtreſſes to their ſervants, and apprentiſes?

Gen. 18.19. 2 Kings 5 23. Coloſſ. 3.22.Gen 18:192 Kgs 5:23Col 3:22Anſ. Maſters and Fathers of Families are in the nature and place of Parents to their ſervants, whileſt they are under their charge, and ought to be carefull of their ſervants and apprentiſes, to Catechize, and inſtruct them in the knowledge of God, of Chriſt, and of themſelves and their duties out of Gods Word that they may doe them ſervice p. 621in the feare of God, not with eye ſervice,Gen. 24.1 & 56.Gen 24:1Gen 24:56 but in ſingleneſſe of heart as unto Chriſt. For how ſhould Maſters or Miſtreſſes expect faithfull ſervice from their ſervants and apprentiſes, when they never take care to teach them what their duty is out of Gods Word.

Secondly,Job 13, 31 Coloſſ. 4.1Job 13:31Col 4:1 Maſters ought to rule their ſervants with Juſtice and equity, according to the Apoſtles direction, Maſters give unto your ſervants that which is juſt and equall, knowing that yee alſo have a Maſter in Heaven.

Thirdly, the commandes of Maſters and Miſtreſſes to their ſervants, and apprentiſes muſt be honeſt and lawfull agreeable not contrary to the Word of God; elſe they are not to be obeyed;2 Sam. 11 14, 15.2 Sam 11:142 Sam 11:15 David ſinned in commanding Ioab to to ſet Ʋriah in the hotteſt of the Battell that he might be ſmitten and die;1 Sam. 22 17.1 Sam 22:17 and Ioab ſinned in obeying David; and Saul, ſinned in commanding his footmen to to kill the Lords Prieſts; and Saules foot-men did not ſinne in diſobeying the unlawfull commands of the King their Maſter.

Fourthly,Gen. 24.5 8.Gen 24:5 Maſters ought to command their Servants and Apprentiſes things p. 622poſſible for them to do, proportionable to their abilities, & actings of their beſt endevours, not beyond them; faithfull Abraham a good Maſter, required no more of his ſervant.

Rom. 12.17. 1 Tim. 5.8Rom 12:171 Tim 5:8Fifthly, the Maſters duty, is to provide for his Servants, and Apprentices, convenient food and rayment; and to Grant them neceſſary reſt,2 King. 5.13.2 Kgs 5:13 and refreſhing, that they may be able to doe their Maſters Service with cheerefulneſſe, as unto living Parents.

Sixthly, the duty of Maſters towards their Servants,Epheſ. 6.9.Eph 6:9 is to correct them, when neceſſity requireth, with wiſedom and moderation; and to forbear cruell threatnings, knowing that they have a Maſter in heaven: neither is their reſpect of perſons with him.

Seventhly, the Maſters and Miſtreſſes duty,Gen. 29.15.21. Gen. 30.28. Exod. 2 9. Prov. 22.6 Deut. 15.12, 13, 14.Gen 29:15Gen 29:21Gen 30:28Exod 2:9Prov 22:6Deut 15:12Deut 15:13Deut 15:14 towards their Servants and Apprentices, is to perform their covenants towards them, without fraud or delay, and to take care, they may learn their Trade and calling, that they may live comfortably not only with them, but but when according to their Covenants they have done their Service, and are departed from them;Gen. 30.27.28.Gen 30:27Gen 30:28 eſteeming thoſe p. 623who have been their faithfull ſervants, as their friends; though in eſtate they be poor, and inferiour unto them, as Chriſt eſteemed of his Diſciples who ſerved him in truth and ſincerity.John 14, 15.John 14:15

Queſt. 21. Theſe are good directions from Chriſt of the duties of Maſters and Miſtreſſes, towards their Servants & Apprentices; now what are the ſins contrary unto theſe?

Anſw. The ſins contrary are divers, I will note them in briefe.

Firſt,Jerem. 10.25. Prov. 31.26, 27. Epheſs. 2.12.Jer 10:25Prov 31:26Prov 31:27 it is a ſinne in Maſters and Miſtreſſes to neglect Prayer, and Catechizing their Families; and not to teach and inſtruct their houſholds in the way of God; when men or women, or their houſhold live as without God in the world; and their Families are uncatechized in their duties to God or to them;Gen. 18.19Gen 18:19 for what God commends in Abraham, the contrary he diſliketh in thoſe who neglect the duty, and merit curſe.Jerm. 9.25.

Secondly,Deut.24.14.Deut 24:14 not to governe the houſhold, and ſervants with Juſtice, and equity; but with unquietneſſe, Tyranny, and oppreſſion, is a ſinne;Prov. 11.29.Prov 11:29 ſuch a one is a troubler of his own houſe.

Thirdly,Coloſſ. 4.1.Col 4:1 to command the Servant p. 624that which is unlawfull and againſt the Law of God, is a ſinne; if a Maſter, and Miſtreſſe command a Servant to ſteale, it is ſinne to command,Exod. 20.15. Eph. 4.28Exod 20:15Eph 4:28 and ſinne to obey; as contrary to the command of God, thou ſhalt not ſteale.

Coloſſ. 4.1Col 4:1Fourthly, to command Servants, or Apprentices to doe that which is impoſſible, and above ſtrength, and ability, in reſpect of time or power, is a ſinne, and oppreſſion like Pharaos; and thoſe wicked Task-maſters of the Egyptians over the Children of Iſrael,Ex. 5.7.10.11.Exod 5:7Exod 5:10Exod 5:11 who required the whole Tale of Brick, and gave no Straw, for which and other ſinnes, God plagued them in the end.

Fifthly, the Maſter ſinneth in not providing for his Servants and Apprentices that which is comfortable,1 Tim. 51.8. fitting, and convenient, for Cloathing, Meat, Drink, Reſt, and the like neceſſaries.

Sixthly, the Maſter and Miſtreſſe ſin in correcting their Servants,Exod. 21.20.Exod 21:20 and Apprentices immoderately, indiſcreetly, with violence, paſſion, cruelty forgetting the rule of Chriſtian moderation,Epheſ. 6.9 Prov 9.21:Eph 6:9Prov 9:21 with threatnings worſe then preſent moderate correction, and Cockering a Servant is a ſinne; as dangerous ſet on the other hand.

p. 625Seventhly,Deut. 24.14, 15.Deut 24:14Deut 24:15 the Maſters and Miſtreſſes ſinne in not performing Covenants with their ſervants, in not teaching them their Trades truly without fraud (which is part of their wages or recompence for Money received) in not rewarding them according to Covenant,Leviticus 19.13. Malac. 3.5. Gen. 31.7.Lev 19:13Mal 3:5Gen 31:7 and making them free-men, that they may live comfortably with them, & ſo from them, when Service is ended, and when they are freemen to be eſteemed as friends upon their good carriage, and faithfull Service,Philemon, 16. eſpecially if there be the Grace of God in them communicated in Chriſt.

Queſt. 22. You have ſet forth divers duties to be performed, and divers ſinnes forbidden. But how ſhall Maſters and Miſtreſſes get ability to perform theſe duties, and to avoid the ſinnes, to Gods Glory, and good of themſelves, and their Servants?

Anſw. Only by vertue and power from Chriſt; for Chriſt is the Vine,John 15.3, 4, 5, 6.John 15:3John 15:4John 15:5John 15:6 and we are the Branches; if we have any ability to bring forth fruit, and to perform our duties it muſt be with ſappe and juice of life received from Chriſt; Therefore Maſters & Miſtreſſes,Job. 22.21.Job 22:21 muſt endeavour to keep a daily acquaintance with Chriſt, p. 926ſo ſhall they be better inabled to perform their duties to Gods glory,Acts. 4.13.Acts 4:13 and the comfort of themſelves, and their Servants.

Queſt. 23. The duty of Maſters, and Miſtreſſes towards their Servants and Apprentices being this declared; what are the duties of Servants and Apprentices, towards their Maſters and Miſtreſſes?

Anſw. Firſt the duty of Servants and Apprentices, is to love, honour, and reverence their Maſters and Miſtreſſes,Malac. 1.6. 1 Tim. 6.1. 2 Kings 15 13.Mal 1:61 Tim 6:12 Kgs 15:13 and to receive Inſtruction from them, out of Gods word; to be Catechized by them, as children by their Parents.

Eph. 6.5, 6, 7.Eph 6:5Eph 6:6Eph 6:7Secondly, the duty of ſervants and Apprentices is to be obedient to their Maſters and Miſtreſſes; in lawfull commands,Coloſſ. 3.22. Titus 2.9.Col 3:22Titus 2:9 and directions, willingly; with fear, and trembling, not anſwering again; but without contradiction to ſerve them:1 Pet 2.23.1 Pet 2:23 not with eye ſervice as men-pleaſers; but in ſingleneſſe of heart, as unto Chriſt.

Gen. 31.40. Coloſſ 3.23.24. Prov. 10.4.Gen 31:40Col 3:23Col 3:24Prov 10:4Thirdly, Servants and Apprentices are to ſerve their Maſters and Miſtreſſes with diligence, to be thrifty, making uſe of all opportunities to doe their Maſters good ſervice, for his profit, and credit; p. 627with all ſingleneſſe of heart as unto God;Prov. 12.24 Prov. …2.29. Epheſ. 6.8.Prov 12:24Prov 2:29Eph 6:8 knowing in this they ſerve the Lord Chriſt, and ſhall receive their reward from God, although their Maſters ſhould proue ungratefull.

Fourthly,Pſal. 101.6.7.Ps 101:6Ps 101:7 the duty of the ſervants and Apprentices, is to ſerve their Maſters and Miſtreſſes, with all wiſedome, faithfullneſſe, and truth, both in word,Prov. 17.2. Titus 2.10 Ephe. 4.25Prov 17:2Titus 2:10Eph 4:25 and deed; without all lying, or falſhood whatſoever, as being alwayes in Gods preſence, who knoweth whether they ſpeake truly, or do truly and faithfully their ſervice or not.

Fifthly,1 Pet. 2.18, 19.1 Pet 2:181 Pet 2:19 the ſervants and Apprentices duty, is to ſubmit to their Maſters …uſt Admonitions, Reproofs, and Corrections; yea,Gen. 16.6.7.Gen 16:6Gen 16:7 although their Ma…ers or Miſtreſſes, faile in the manner of their carriage towards them; yet they are not to runne away, or in pride to oppoſe; but to carry themſelves in all humility towards their Ma…ers and Mi…reſſes,Gen. 16.8.9.Gen 16:8Gen 16:9 ſubmitting themſelves unto them,Eccleſ. 5.8Eccl 5:8 as is convenient in the Lord: leaving their cauſe to God, (who is higher then the higheſt) & to a lawfull courſe of Juſtice; not taking the Law into their own hands, or being their own Judges. For p. 628the Magiſtrate beareth not the ſword in vaine;…om. 13 …, 2, 3, 4.7 he is the Miniſter of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him, that doth evill, ſervant or Maſter.

Sixthly, the Servants and Apprentices duty is to keep all their Maſters Secrets,Prov. 23.11. Prov. 20.19Prov 23:11Prov 20:19 which ought to be kept, and concealed, not revealing them to diſcredit, or the diſhonour,Prov. 25.9.Prov 25:9 or diſprofit of their Maſters or Miſtreſſes;Gen. 24.2.3, &c.Gen 24:2Gen 24:3 the Maſter repoſeth a truſt in his ſervant, whom he taketh into his houſe, to be carefull both of his profit and honour; and to doe him faithfull ſervice.

Seventhly, the duty of the ſervants and apprentices,Titus 2.9.Titus 2:9 is to be well pleaſing, & to ſeek to pleaſe their Maſters, and Miſtreſſes,Gen. 13.8.Gen 13:8 and fellow ſervants (in all lawfull and good things) as Brethren and Siſters;Gen. 24.33 34, 35. Gen. 24.37 41.Gen 24:33Gen 24:37 and keep quietneſſe in the Family; and to performe their Covenants to and with their Maſters and Miſtreſſs;es, when they are with them, and to Reſpect them as their Fathers, and late Antient a Maſters, when they are freemen, and departed from them; yet then to have an honourable reſpect of them, as is comely in the Lord.

Queſtion 24. You have manifeſted p. 629the duties of Servants, and Apprentices towards their Maſters, and Miſtreſſes; now declare I pray you, what light the Lord Chriſt hath held forth in Scripture, to diſcover the ſinnes of ſervants and Apprentices contrary to theſe duties.

Anſw. The Scripture and Chriſt in the Scripture, revealeth divers ſins of ſervants and Apprentices; as

Firſt, the Servants and Apprentices doe ſinne in not loving and honouring their Maſters and Miſtreſſes,1 Tim. 6.1, 2, 3, 4, 5. Rom. 13.71 Tim 6:11 Tim 6:21 Tim 6:31 Tim 6:41 Tim 6:5Rom 13:7 or in any way hating of them, deſpiſing, diſhonouring, or diſcrediting of them; eſpecially, refuſing or not receiving Inſtruction,Pro. 13.18 Pſal. 50.17.Prov 13:18Ps 50:17 but hating it from Maſters and Miſtreſſes; or in not ſubmitting to be Catechized by them, in the truth of Chriſt, and their duties,Prov. 15.32.Prov 15:32 according to the word of God, and that light their Maſters and Miſtreſſes have received from Chriſt Jeſus. If Abrahams duty be to Catechize his Family, and command them to know the Lord and his will;Gen. 18.18 19. Matt. 8.8, 9. Job. 19.16. M…tt. 24.48 49.50, &c. Epheſ. 6. With good w…ll doe ſervice as to the Lord not men. 1 Cor. 15.33. Judg. 5 9 Titus 2 9. 2 Cor. 9 7. Matt. 25.26. Rom. 11.12. Prov. 10.4. Prov. 12.24. Prov. 18 9, Prov. 6.6. Prov. 10.26. Jerem. 23.24. Titus 2.10 Luke 16.1.2 8. Zac…ar. 5.4 Epheſ. 4.28 Epheſ. 6.5.6. John 8.44. Pſal. 101.7. Levit. 19.11. Coloſſ. 3.9 2 Sam. 16.3. 2 Sam. 19 27. Jere. 17.9 Revel. 2.23. Revel. 21.8 Revel. 22.15. Acts 5.31Gen 18:18Matt 8:8Matt 8:9Job 19:16Eph 61 Cor 15:33Judg 5:9Titus 2:92 Cor 9:7Matt 25:26Rom 11:12Prov 10:4Prov 12:24Prov 18:9Prov 6:6Prov 10:26Jer 23:24Titus 2:10Luke 16:1Luke 16:2Eph 4:28Eph 6:5Eph 6:6John 8:44Ps 101:7Lev 19:11Col 3:92 Sam 16:32 Sam 19:27Jer 17:9Rev 2:23Rev 21:8Rev 22:15Acts 5:31 then the ſervants and apprentices duty is to learn and ſubmit to be Catechized, and Inſtructed by them; and the contrary is ſinne, in any whoſoever.

Secondly, it is a ſinne in ſervants and p. 630apprentices, to be rebellious, or diſobedient to the juſt commands, of their Maſters or Miſtreſſes; or to do their commands, and directions unwillingly, and grudgingly, or with murmurings and repining, with denyings, or evill words which c…rrupt good manners, and manife… their diſobedience; which is ſinne, as contrary to the Rule of Chriſt, by the Apoſtle; God cannot abide unwilling, or grudging ſervice.

Thirdly, ſervants and apprentices ſinne in being idle, careleſſe, ſluggards, negligent or ſloathfull to do ſervice or to performe the will, direction, and law…ull orders of their Maſters and Miſtreſſes without diligence, and faithfull endevotr in abſence as well as preſence of Superiors.

Fourthly, ſervants and apprentices ſinne in doing their ſervice unfaithfully, and un…uſtly, when they purloine, rob and ſteale from their Maſters, or Miſtreſſes; when they waſte, or miſpend their Maſters goods, or embezell them any manner of way.

Fifthly, the ſervants and apprentices ſinne in not ſerving their Maſters in ſincerity and truth in word or deed, but p. 631with lying fraud, and deceit; a ſervant muſt not tell his Maſter an untruth, he muſt not lie for or againſt his Maſters profit; but ſpeake truth as knowing that the Lord knoweth the heart, leaſt with lying Gehezi hee get the curſe of a Leproſie to his ſhame, and hell for his portion except God give graces of faith and Repentance in Chriſt Jeſus.

Sixthly,Malac. 1.6Mal 1:6 the ſervants ſinne in not keeping all their Maſters counſells, and ſecrets which ought not to be revealed, or in diſhonouring or ſeeking the diſcredit of their Maſters or Miſtreſſes,1 Pet. 2.18, 19.1 Pet 2:181 Pet 2:19 or their diſprofit contrary to the true and lawfull truſt repoſed in them, and not ſubjecting to fit correction if they faile in duty.

Seventhly,Titus 2.9 Ch iſtian example. Rom. 15.1, 2, 3. Rom. 1.30, 31. Heſter. 2.7.20. Heſter. 8.1Titus 2:9Rom 15:1Rom 15:2Rom 15:3Rom 1:30Rom 1:31Esth 2:7Esth 2:20Esth 8:1 the ſervants and apprentices ſinne in not endevouring to pleaſe, but wilfully or careleſſely diſpleaſing them, nor performing their covenants with their Maſters, while they are with them not honouring them when they are departed from them as good ſervants ought to honour thoſe who have nouriſhed, taught and reſpected them, as good and wiſe Maſters ought to reſpect p. 632ſervants and apprentices; and as children their foſter Parents, to honour them when they are from them, as Queene Heſter did to Mordecai.

Queſt. 25. You have given a light for ſervants and apprentices to ſee their duties and their ſinnes and failings; now what light have you from Chriſt to reveale how ſervants and apprentices may get not onelyonly aſſurance of pardon for their ſinnes, but wiſdome and power to performe theſe duties, and avoid theſe ſinnes and failings that ſo they may walke comfortably with Chriſt in their callings and courſe of their lives.

Anſ. OnelyOnly in and by Chriſt who is made unto us of God Wiſedome,1 Cor. 1.301 Cor 1:30 and Righteouſneſſe and ſanctification, and Redemption. Therefore Servants and apprentices muſt ſeeke unto, and waite upon Chriſt in the Goſpell, as to the fountaine opened to the houſe of David for ſinne,Z…ch. 13.1 1 Iohn 1.71 John 1:7 and for uncleanneſſe that by his Bloud they may be cleanſed from all ſinne.

Secondly, they muſt ſeeke to Chriſt as to the Tree of life in the middeſt of the Paradiſe of God that beareth fruit every month,Revel. 2.22Rev 2:22 and the leaves are good to heal the nations with. Seek to Chriſt for p. 633health of ſoule and life, power to ſtrengthen and quicken them with wiſdome, and ſtrength of grace to performe their duties.

Thirdly,Gen. 24.12 & 26.27.Gen 24:12Gen 26:27 ſervants and apprentices they muſt imitate that Religious practize of Abrahams faithfull ſervant,John 16.23.John 16:23 pray to God to bleſſe their endeavours as he did. (O Lord God of my Maſter Abraham, I pray thee ſend me good ſpeed this day) thus ſeeking in the name of Chriſt, they ſhall finde a bleſſing to their comfort.

Queſt. 26. But what if in all theſe meanes and performances of duties on each part, Husbands cannot find good Wives, nor Wives finde good Husbands, Parents not finde good children, or children good Parents, Maſters not finde good ſervants, nor ſervants although they performe their duties, cannot find good maſters, what is the duty of each one in ſuch condition?

Anſ. The Husband is to pray for his Wife, and the Wife for her Husband; the Parents are to ſeeke the Lord for their children, and the children for their Parents; the Maſters for their ſervants p. 634and the ſervants for their Maſters, and to uſe all good meanes that in and by Chriſt their hearts may be changed, their corruptions mortified,Luke 9.23Luke 9:23 and their infirmities healed, and to beare their croſſe,Heb. 12.2Heb 12:2 and endure the affliction with patience, looking unto Jeſus the Author and finiſher of our faith, who for the joy that was ſet before him edured the Croſſe, deſpi…ng the ſhame, and is ſet downe at the right hand of the Throne of God.

Queſt. 27. You have explained and held forth the duties of Superiors and Juferiors in the oeconomicall or houſehould eſtate; now what are the duties in the Eccleſiaſticall Church or ſtate, 1 Cor. 4.15.1 Cor 4:15and Spiritnall Parents or ſuperiours in the Church, as Paſtors and Treachers or Miniſters to the people of God committed to their charge, Acts 20.28Acts 20:28und over whom the Holy Ghoſt hath made them overſeers?

1 Pet. 2.25 1 P…r. 5.4 1 Cor. 4.1, 2. 2 Tim. 3.15.1 Pet 2:251 Cor 4:11 Cor 4:22 Tim 3:15Anſ. Firſt, the holy Scripture holdeth forth the Lord Chriſt himſelfe, to be the chiefe Shepheard and overſeer, and as he is the great Paſtor to teach, ſo he hath appointed Paſtors and Teachers in his Church; And as the Lord Chriſt is faithfull not as a ſervant, but p. 635as a ſon over his owne houſe,Heb. 3.5, 6 1 …or. 4.1, 2. 1 Tim. 2.15.Heb 3:5Heb 3:61 Tim 2:15 ſo it is the duty of the Mini…ers and ſervants of Chriſt to be faithfull, as ſtewards in the houſe of Chriſt the Church of the living God.

Queſt. 28. Wherein is this faithfulneſse to be manifeſted by Miniſters in the performance of their duties, and what light from Chriſt to m…ke this evident?

Anſ. Firſt,Act. 20.28 2 Cor. 5.19, 20.Acts 20:282 Cor 5:192 Cor 5:20 in taking heede to themſelves (as Ambaſſadors ſent of Chriſt) and to all the flock, over which the holy Gho… hath made them overſeers,2 Tim. 4.2.2 Tim 4:2 to feede the Church of God which he hath purchaz…d with his owne bloud. To Preach the Word of God, and be inſtant in ſeaſon and out of ſeaſon; to Reproove, Rebuke, Exhort with all long ſuffering and Doctrine.

Secondly,Rom. 12.8 1 Pet. 5.1, 2, 3. 2 Cor. 4.5Rom 12:81 Pet 5:11 Pet 5:21 Pet 5:32 Cor 4:5 to feede the flock of God taking the Rule and overſight of them with diligence, not by conſtraint but willingly, not for filthy lucre, but of a ready minde, neither as Lords over Gods heritage, but as ſervants to the Church for Jeſus ſake.

Thirdly, the Overſeers, Elders,Acts 20.28 1 Pet. 5.1. 1 Tim. 3.2 3, 4.Acts 20:281 Pet 5:11 Tim 3:2 or Miniſters of Chriſt they are Paſtors and Teachers, and Rulers, they ought to be p. 636of unblameable life and converſation,1 Pet. 5.31 Pet 5:3 examples to the flock, husband of one wife vigilant,1 Tim. 4.6 &c.1 Tim 4:6 ſober, apt to teach, not given to Wine, no ſtriker, not given to filthy lucre, but patient, not a brawler, not covetous;1 Tim. 6.11, 12.1 Tim 6:111 Tim 6:12 one that ruleth his own houſe well having his childen in ſubjection with all gravity, no novice, leaſt hee be lifted up with pride.2 Tim. 2.24.2 Tim 2:24 Here are foureteene properties in one place, the Epiſtles of bleſſed Paul to Timothy, and to Titus hold forth diverſe more.Titus 1.6, 7, 8, 9. Titue 2.7Titus 1:6Titus 1:7Titus 1:8Titus 1:9 Thus the ſervant of Chriſt ought not to ſtrive; but in meekneſſe to inſtruct and be a patterne of good work.

Queſt. 29. What are the ſinnes of Miniſters contrary to theſe duties?

Anſ. Firſt, unfaithfullneſſe, running before they be ſent,Iſai. 56. to 11.Isa 56 and not feeding the flock of God where they come, not Preaching, Catechizing, adminiſtring of the Sacraments,J…. 23.1, 2 and Prayers and other Miniſteriall acts for good of the Church;Ezek. 34.1, 2, 3.Ezek 34:1Ezek 34:2Ezek 34:3 being ignorant idoll Shepheards, or idle and negligent Sheepheards, Not regarding that great charge and honorable office they have taken upon them, not performing that truſt committed unto them, and of which p. 637they muſt give an account to the chiefe Sheepheard Chriſt Jeſus.1 Pet. 5.41 Pet 5:4

Secondly, unfaithfulneſſe in not ruling as Elders and not Governing the Church of God with watchfulneſſe,Eze. 34.4, 5 1 Pet. 5.3, 4. 3 Iohn 9. Iſai. 56.11, 12.Ezek 34:4Ezek 34:51 Pet 5:31 Pet 5:43 John 1:9Isa 56:11Isa 56:12 wiſedome and humility, according to the Rule of Chriſt; but in pride or tyranny, as lording it over Gods heritage, loving the preheminence contrary to the direction of the Spirit of Chriſt.

Thirdly, Miniſters ſinne in unfaithfulneſſe in not feeding them by good example of life and converſation, being as Iohn the Baptiſt burning and ſhining lights:Iohn 5.35John 5:35 But walking diſorderly as Eli's ſons to the diſhonour of their callings, and evill example of others, any manner of way unbeſeeming the Miniſters and ſervants of Chriſt Jeſus.1 Sam. 2.17 22.1 Sam 2:17

Queſt. 30. You have declared the duties of thoſe who are Miniſters of Chriſt, 1 Pet. 5.1. 1 Cor. 4.15.1 Pet 5:11 Cor 4:15ſpirituall Fathers, Elders, Overſeers, Paſtors and Teachers in the Church, and their ſins and failings; Now what are the duties of ſpirituall children of the Congregation, and people, to their Paſtors and Teachers?

Anſ. The duty of people and congregations1 Theſſ. 5.17.1 Thess 5:17 p. 638to their faithfull Paſtors and Teachers, as

Mat. 11.40 1 Theſſ. 5.12.1. Gal. 4.14 1 Cor. 4.1 1 Theſſ. 5.13. 1 Tim. 5.17.Matt 11:401 Thess 5:121 Thess 5:1Gal 4:141 Cor 4:11 Thess 5:131 Tim 5:17Firſt, to receive and acknowledge them as ſent of Chriſt, and over them in the Lord, as the Apoſtles expreſſion is.

Secondly, to Love, Reverence, and eſteeme thoſe Miniſters and Elders eſpecially that labour in the word, and very highly in love for their worke ſake and with double honour as is fit for Miniſters and officers of Chriſt.

Thirdly, to obey them in the Lord, as thoſe that have the Rule and over-ſight of them,Heb. 13.17 Heb. 13.24Heb 13:17Heb 13:24 and watch for their ſoules and muſt give an account, that they may doe it with joy and not with greif; for that will not profit for thoſe that diſobey Gods Miniſters and Elders over them in the Lord.1 Theſſ. 5.22.1 Thess 5:22

Gal. 4.15. 1 Tim. 5.17, 18. Luke 10.5 6, 7. Galat. 6.6, 7. 1 Co…. 9.13, 14.Gal 4:151 Tim 5:171 Tim 5:18Luke 10:5Gal 6:6Gal 6:7Fourthly, readily and cheerefully to communicate give or pay unto them that honorable maintenance which is due unto th…m for their labour in the worke of the Mini…try, according to the word of God and ordinance of Jeſus Chri…t.

Queſt. 31. But is there any payment of maintenance due now to Gods Miniſters as Miniſters of Chriſt in the new Teſtament p. 639by any Divine-right, the neglect or keeping back of which is a ſinne: becauſe I have heard ſome affirme that howſoever in the old Teſtamenet, the Lord had the reſerved portion of his owne inheritance the Tenth which he gave to his Miniſters for their labour, and for the honorable and comfortable maintenance of them and theirs, (beſides their Cities and their Suburbs for their cattell, Numb. 18.20, 21, 30.31. Levit. 27.30, 31, 32.1, 2.3, 4, &c. Numb. 35.Num 18:20Num 18:21Num 18:30Num 18:31Lev 27:30Lev 27:31Lev 27:32Lev 27:1Lev 27:2Lev 27:3Lev 27:4Num 35and for their goods and for all their beaſts, and …ther helpes more; yet in the new Teſtament ſince Chriſt aſcended into Heaven, the Lord hath nothing peculiar to himſelfe, and Chriſt Miniſtres have nothing due to them for their labour, and maintenance by any Divine Right; 2 Cor. 5.202 Cor 5:20But they muſt live of Almes, and accept of there reward for their labour and maintenance at the pleaſure of the people?

Anſ. Truely I ſhould have wondred that any one who had profeſſed the leaſt meaſure of love to Chriſt, ſhould dare to manifeſt ſo little love and reſpect to the Miniſters, and Ambaſſadors of Chriſt as to harbour in their breaſts, much leſſe to publiſh with their mouths ſuch a prophane and irreligious an opinion (but that a brother may erre) and I have heard men of the ſame opinion p. 640my ſelfe, and once had a paper in writing delivered unto mee before divers witneſſes declaring the very ſame opinion in ſubſtance (the writing I have yet in my Study to ſhew) but this little volum is now growne ſo big,In S. P. L. or meeting place. that I cannot ſtand to prove the Divine right of Miniſters maintenance ſo fully as it may be proved by infailible grounds of holy Scriptures, and in particular from thoſe places noted before.

Queſt. 32. But howſoever ſome Separatiſts have erred ſo far as to deny any Divine Right of Miniſters maintenance; Cor. 9.15.yet others more moderate acknowledge an Ordinance of Chriſt for it; although they deny Tithes to be payd by Divine Right in the Goſpell; declare I pray you in briefe what you conceive may bee ſaid for ſatisfaction herein?

Anſ. Firſt, for Divine right of Tithes, as of old to be paid now in kinde of every increaſe by Divine right,Levit. 19.30, 31, 32.Lev 19:30Lev 19:31Lev 19:32 I refer the Reader to thoſe Bookes of learned men, who have writ of this ſubject at large; In particular to Doctor Willets Synopſis Papiſmi, Carleton to Sir Iames Temple, M. Slater and divers other which doe out of Scripture and learned Authors p. 641doe confirme the Divine right further then I could yet ever ſee any appearance of ſatisfaction in anſwer to the conſcience of true Chriſtians.Gen. 14.15 Gen. 28.22Gen 14:15Gen 28:22 But in briefe for the Lords inheritance of Tithes or of a part of increaſe reſerved to himſelfe, and manifeſted in Scripture long before Levi was borne; howſoever Leviticall Tithes which were a Leviticall and ceremoniall Ordinance, may ſeeme to be aboliſhed by that place of this Apoſtle Eph. 2.15 Chriſt having aboliſhed the Law of Commandements contained in Ordinances, compared with that Deut. 12.5.6. and Deut. 14.22.23. Where the Lord ordaineth that they ſhould pay Tithe of all their increaſe yeare by yeare, and bring it up to the place which the Lord ſhould chooſe, and eate it there before the Lord; which Tithe was Leviticall and ſo aboliſhed and not needfull now.

Secondly, if any man will conſider that there was not onelyonly that Tithe, but a ſecond Tithe to be tithed every third yeare for the poore as you may reade, Deut. 26.12. called in this reſpect the yeare of tything to be eaten at home within their gates, for widowes and p. 642Fatherleſſe and the reſt, and this tenth though not required now as then, yet the poore is not to be forgotten for ever.

Thirdly, if you conſider that beſides theſe Leviticall tithes there was a third kinde of tith which was firſt in command,Joſephus li. Antiquit. 4. cap. 8. and which the Lord challengeth a ſpeciall right in as a reſerved part for his ſervice to be diſpoſed of at his pleaſure, and which hee gave to his Miniſters for an inheritance, as for their ſervice for them and their houſehoulds to eate as a reward for their ſervice, as you may reade Numb. 18.20.21.31. And of this third tithes as reward for Miniſ…ers labour, I finde no colour nor ground of aboliſhment in the new Teſtament; But rather a confirmation by Chriſt that they ought to be paid, or that which is anſwerable to them for the maintenance of Chriſts Miniſters; for although Aaron be dead, yet Melchiſedeck in his Antitype Chriſt, or Chriſt in his Miniſters is ſtill alive to receive the Lords portion to the end of the World, as St. Paul declares, Heb. 7.8. And as that learned Knight Sir James Semple proves evidently; a Book I never p. 643yet ſaw anſwered by any man. But to evidence this in a few words, conſider, Firſt, that what reaſon the Lord giveth for the beſtowing of this ſpeciall tenth upon Levi, his Miniſters who expounded the Word of God and gave the ſence of it to teach Gods people,Nehe. 8.8. namely for a wages and reward for their labour and ſervice, as is evident in Numbers 18.21. and in other places; the very ſame reaſon Our Saviour Chriſt giveth wherefore his Apoſtles and Miniſters ſhould bee maintained, and have a comfortable livelyhood for their labour in Preaching of the Goſpell, as a reward for their labour by Chriſts appointment; for the labourer is worthy of his reward, ſaith Chriſt: and ſo the Greeke word ſignifieth Luke 10.7.foreign. and the Apoſtle St. Paul giveth the ſame reaſon and ground for the honorable maintenance of the Miniſters of Chriſt in that 1 Tim. 5.17.18. and concludes the point that Miniſters maintenance is an ordinance of Chriſt, 1 Cor. 9.14. And therfore certainly ſeeing the Lord Chriſt giveth the ſame ground for his Miniſters maintenance in the new Teſtament, as he did for this ſpeciall firſt tithe for his p. 644Miniſters maintenance, in the old Teſtament; The payment of this ſpeciall tithe being commanded in the old Teſtament, and nowhere forbidden in the new Teſtament, the payment of this tithe for maintenance of Chriſt Miniſters can never be proved to be unlawfull, and therefore may lawfully be paid as a reward of Miniſters labour, or a due, anſwerable in conſideration thereof, for Miniſters maintenance without any ſcruple of conſcience:Malac. 3.8, 9.Mal 3:8Mal 3:9 and much more when it is confirmed by the Chriſtian Magiſtrate; Thus have I endeavored in briefe to ſatisfie your deſire, and herein to hold forth the duty of people to their Paſtors and Teachers in the Churches of Chriſt to pay that honorable maintenance due by Chriſts Ordinance unto them.

Queſt. 33. Now you have declared their duties; I pray you what are the ſinnes of people and congregations contrary to theſe duties?

Anſ. The ſins of the people are divers, I will name them in brief.

Firſt, for a peple or congregation not to embrace a Miniſter ſent of Chriſt rightly called,Mat. 10.14, 15.Matt 10:14Matt 10:15 and approved by themſelves p. 645and others in authority by Chriſt in his Church,1 Theſſ. 5.12.1 Thess 5:12 and inabled by Chriſt and his ſpirit with gifts fit for the Miniſteriall office, and not to acknowledge him as over them in the Lord, is ſinne.

Secondly,1 Kings 22 8. Luk. 10.16 Gala. 4.16 John 15.18, 19. 1 Cor. 16.22.1 Kgs 22:8Luke 10:16Gal 4:16John 15:18John 15:191 Cor 16:22 for any to hate the Miniſters of Chriſt, or any of them for their worke ſake eſpecially, or to diſteeme or diſhonour them or be enemies, is a greivous ſin and an evidence, ſuch a man or woman loveth not the Lord Jeſus, is ſubject to be curſed with the great curſe, Anathema Maranatha.

Thirdly,2 Chron. 36.16, 17. 2 Kings 2.23, 24. 1 Kings 13 Pſal. 105.2 Chr 36:162 Chr 36:172 Kgs 2:232 Kgs 2:241 Kgs 13Ps 105 for any man woman or child to make ſcorne, taunt, or any other wayes to abuſe the faithfull Miniſters of Jeſus Chriſt, is a fearfull ſinne, which brings Gods judgements upon ſuch men weomen or children.

Fourthly, for any to diſobey,Deut. 17.12. Hoſea. 4.4, & Acts 5.39. Acts 7.51 Prov. 20.25. Malac. 3.8, 9.Deut 17:12Hos 4:4Acts 5:39Acts 7:51Prov 20:25Mal 3:8Mal 3:9 or reſiſt, or revile, or diſcontent the Miniſters of Jeſus Chrſt, in or about their Miniſteriall office, or any other unlawful wayes, is a ſin.

Fifthly, to take away or keepe back from them any part of that honorable maintenance, or countenance which is due unto them by the Ordinance of p. 646the Lord Jeſus,1 Theſſ. 5.17. Galat. 6.6, 7.1 Thess 5:17Gal 6:6Gal 6:7 is ſacriledge, a robbing and mocking of God, and an odious ſinne; and more particularly, what is approved of by the lawfull Magiſtrate.

Iohn. 15.20, 21. Iohn 16.1, 2, 3. Acts 9.25. 2 Cor. 11.32.33. Luke 11.49, 50. Acts. 8.2, 3 Acts 9.4, 5 Luk. 19.27 2 Sam 6.7.John 15:20John 15:21John 16:1John 16:2John 16:3Acts 9:252 Cor 11:322 Cor 11:33Luke 11:49Luke 11:50Acts 8:2Acts 8:3Acts 9:4Acts 9:5Luke 19:272 Sam 6:7Sixthly, to perſecute, betray or not to defend and preſerve the Miniſters of Jeſus Chriſt, by all lawfull and good meanes, in their lives, goods, good names, and eſpecially in and for the execution of their Miniſteriall office, is a ſinne, and the property and marke of wicked men whom Chriſt will one day take for his enemies, who refuſe to have him to rule over them.

Seventhly, for any to intrude themſelves into the office of Chriſts Miniſters,2 Chron. 26.19, 20.2 Chr 26:192 Chr 26:20 or to uſurpe a Miniſteriall office in the Church of Chriſt, for which he hath no call from Chriſt, nor ground or title from the Word of God,Heb. 5.4.Heb 5:4 is certainly a ſin, an odious ſin againſt Chriſt Jeſus.

Queſt. 34. You have revealed by Scripture, and light from Chriſt in the Scripture, what are the duties required, and the ſinne… forbidden both of Chriſts Miniſters, an… of the people over whom the holy Ghoſt hat… made them overſeers, and in particula… p. 647how the people ought to receive, reverence, and countenance their Miniſters, Paſtors, and Teachers, and give them that honorable maintenance which is due to Gods Miniſters by Divine right, and according to the Ordinances of the Lord Chriſt. But is there any promiſe of bleſſing or any ſuch encouragement to thoſe who do thus receive, honour, and pay freely that honorable Maintenance that is due to God for his ſervice, and to Gods Miniſters for their labour and ſervice according to the O…dinance of Chriſt?

Anſ. Yea verily, the Scripture holdeth forth diverſe promiſes to this effect;Prov. 3.9.10.Prov 3:9Prov 3:10 as that in the Proverbs; Honour the Lord with thy ſubſtance and with the firſt fruits of all thy increaſe, ſo ſhall thy Barnes be filled with plenty, and thy Preſſes ſhall burſt out with new Wine; thou ſhalt be ſure if thou honour God in his ſervice, or faithfull ſervants,1 Sam. 2.301 Sam 2:30 God, will honour thee; yea the Lord biddeth his people to trie and prove him if they would bring in the maintenance of his Miniſtery and ſervice as they ought,Malac. 3.10 11.Mal 3:10 if he would not open the Windowes of Heaven, and powre a bleſſing upon them, and he would bleſſe and not curſe their increaſe; and Chriſt, p. 648ſaith hee,Mat. 10.40, 41.Matt 10:40Matt 10:41 that receiveth his Diſciples and Miniſters, receiveth him; and they that receive a Prophet in the Name of a Prophet, ſhall receive a Prophets reward: ſo that there is great encouragement for Saints and all Gods people, to perform their duties herein.

Queſt. 35. Is there any thinke you that love the Lord Ieſus that will not love, and honour his faithfull Miniſters and willingly give them all reſpect due to them by the Ordinance of Chriſt?

Anſ. Certainly all men have not faith, and ſome are unreaſonable and wicked men,2 Theſſ. 3.2.2 Thess 3:2 who love not Chriſt nor his Miniſters. I have heard divers Miniſters complaine,Genſ. 47.22.26. 2 Chron. 36.16, 17.2 Chr 36:162 Chr 36:17 that in ſome parts they have beene uſed far worſe then the Egyptians uſed their Prieſts, they finde no favour, but have been ſubject to divers abuſes, which was a fearfull ſinne that once brought a forraigne enemy upon Gods owne people; But now we hope better things, that as the Lord hath honoured thoſe who are in high places, ſo he will honour them with one grace more, to take care that there may be faithfull and honorable Miniſters placed in every congregation in the Kingdome,1 Tim. 5.711 Tim 5:71 and p. 649that they may have an honorable maintenance duly payd them according to the Ordinance of Chriſt.1 Cor. 9.14.1 Cor 9:14

Queſt. 36. I have received good ſatisfaction for the duties of Miniſters, Paſtors and Teachers in the church of Chriſt, and the peoples duties unto them, both in reſpect of reverence, and maintenance; But what is your judgement I pray you, hath Chriſt, appointed no government in his Church? and ſo no governours who as Fathers are to be honoured, and who are to be as Rulers in the Church for right ord…ing of Chriſts diſcipline, for Gods glory, and the good of his Church; what light from Chriſt to direct in this?

Anſ. Yes, certainly as the Scripture holdeth forth the Lord Chriſt himſelfe to be the chiefe Lord and Governour,Iſaia. 2.6, 7 Mich. 5.2 Mat. 2.6.Mic 5:2Matt 2:6 yea, the King of his Church, and the Governement to be upon his ſhoulder; ſo when the Lord Chriſt aſcended up into Heaven, and led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men, as hee gave ſome to be Apoſtles and ſome Prophets, ſome Paſtors, and Teachers,Eph. 4:11, 12. &c. 1 Tim. 5.17. Rom. 12.8.Eph 4:11Eph 4:121 Tim 5:17Rom 12:8 for the perfecting of the Saints for the worke of the Miniſtery for the edifying of the body of Chriſt, ſo hee hath given p. 650Elders,1 Cor. 12.28. Acts 6.1, 2 3. Rom. 12.71 Cor 12:28Acts 6:1Acts 6:2Rom 12:7 Rulers, and Governments, or helpes in Government, as Overſeers, Deacons, Miniſters and Officers for the good of the Church of Chriſt.

Queſt. 37. But who are theſe Elders and Officers that are to have government in the Church?

Anſ. Firſt, it is evident in Scripture that the ſame men, who are called in Scripture Presbyters,Acts 20.17, 28.Acts 20:17Acts 20:28 or Elders, and Rulers, they are called Overſeers or Biſhops and Paſtors,1 Tim. 5.17.1 Tim 5:17 ſuch as muſt labour in the word and Doctrine, and not only take heede to all the flocke, over which the holy Ghoſt hath made them overſeers,Titus. 1.5, 6, 7, 8, 9.Titus 1:5Titus 1:6Titus 1:7Titus 1:8Titus 1:9 But feede the Church of God which hee hath purchaſed with his own blood;Acts 29.28 So that it is evident that the ſame men who are Paſtors and Teachers, have authority from Chriſt to be Elders,1 Pet. 5.2, 3, 4.1 Pet 5:21 Pet 5:31 Pet 5:4 and Rulers in the Church, although they are not to lord it over Gods heritage, but to be enſamples to the flock, as St. Seter holdeth forth the light of Chriſt unto the Church.

Queſt. 38. Are there no other Elders or Ruling Officers in the Church, but Paſtors and Teachers and ſuch as labour publikely in Preaching, and ſo in the word and doctrin?

p. 651Anſ. Divers learned men do affirme from that place of the Apoſtle to Timothy, Aretius, Piſc…tor Beza in 1 Tim. 5.17. foreign. 1 Cor. 12.28. Heb. 13.17 24. The Church of G…neva. The Chu ch of Scotland, And Holland, Fr…nce, N…w England, and n…w England.1 Tim 5:171 Cor 12:28Heb 13:17the Elders that Rule well are worthy of double honour, eſpecially thoſe that labour in Word and Doctrine, and principally from the Word eſpecially implying a difference, and diſtinction of Elders, as is it a note of diſtinction in other places of Scripture; as you may reade, Gal. 6.10. doe good to all, eſpecially to the houſehold of faith, And 1 Tim. 4.10. who is the Saviouiour of all, eſpecially of them that believe, (as alſo from other places of Scripture) that beſides Paſtors and Preachers, There are other Elders, Aſſiſtants to the Miniſters of Chriſt and helpes in government as divers Reformed Churches have uſed, and yet have in their practize of Diſcipline.

Queſt. 39. What kinde of graces or qualifications ought Elders, Rulers, Deacons, or Church officers bee endowed with that they may bee fit to governe in the Church?

Anſ. Verily, Elders, and Deacons and Miniſters or any Rulers in the Church, according to the Scriptures, they ought to be ſpirituall, Heavenly-minded men,Acts 6.1, 2.3.Acts 6:1Acts 6:2Acts 6:3 p. 652endued with the Holy Ghoſt,James 3.17Jas 3:17 men of wiſdome and knowledge in Religion endued with wiſdome,1 Tim. 3.9.1 Tim 3:9 that is from above,2 Tim. 2.1, 2.2 Tim 2:12 Tim 2:2 pure, peaceable, gentle full of mercy and good fruits without partiality or hypocriſy, ſound and ſincere in the Faith,Heb. 5.14Heb 5:14 Prudent, Holding the myſtery of faith in a pure conſcience, grave, ſober,Titus 1.9.13, 14.Titus 1:9Titus 1:13Titus 1:14 not given to drinke, patient, able in meekneſſe to inſtruct thoſe who oppoſe themſelves,1 Tim. 3.8 2 Tim. 2.23, 24, &c. Titus 1.5, 6, 7.1 Tim 3:82 Tim 2:232 Tim 2:24Titus 1:5Titus 1:6Titus 1:7 not proud as Lords of Gods inheritage, but of blamleſſe life and converſation, humble minded, that they may ſhew themſelves good examples to the Flock; and when the chiefe Sheapheard ſhall appeare,1 Pet. 5.1, 2, 3, 4.1 Pet 5:11 Pet 5:21 Pet 5:31 Pet 5:4 receive a never fading Crowne of Glory.

Queſt. 49. What is the Office of ſuch Elders, Rulers, or Governours in the Church?

Anſw. Being rightly choſen by the Church,Acts 6.3. Acts 15.22 23. 1 Cor. 12.28. Acts 9.26, 27. Acts 10.45 47.Acts 6:3Acts 15:221 Cor 12:28Acts 9:26Acts 9:27Acts 10:45 they are to be helpers, and aſſiſtant in the Government of Chriſts Church, to take care with the Chuch, to further the right admiſſion, and uniting of Members do the Communion of Saints, and eſpecially to Churh fellowſhip in the holy communion and Supper of the Lord for better not p. 653for worſe,1 Cor. 11.17, &c. Exo. 12.48. Ezek. 44.7, 8, 9. Jer. 15.19. Mat. 18.15, 16. 1 Theſſ. 5.12, 13. 2 Theſſ. 3.14, 15.1 Cor 11:17Exod 12:48Ezek 44:7Ezek 44:8Ezek 44:9Jer 15:19Matt 18:15Matt 18:161 Thess 5:121 Thess 5:132 Thess 3:142 Thess 3:15 that all ignorant unbelieving, prophane, Scandalous, impenitent perſons be kept away, to ſeparate the pretious from the vile; They are to aſſiſt in Chriſtian exhortations, in godly and brotherly admonitions, reprehenſions, counſells, comforts, yea to aſſiſt not onelyonly in ſuſpenſions from the Sacrament, that leſſer, but in that great cenſure of Excommunication, if neceſſity require; they are to aſſiſt in overſeeing or watching over the flock according to their place and power,Mat. 18.17 18, 19, 20. 1 Cor. 5.3. 4, 5, &c. Iames 5.15 16. Acts 6.1, 2, 3. Zach. 14.5.…1. Revel. 21.3Matt 18:171 Cor 5:31 Cor 5:41 Cor 5:5Jas 5:15Acts 6:1Acts 6:2Acts 6:3Zech 14:5Zech 14:1Rev 21:3 in viſiting of the ſicke, and having eyes with the Deacons, (whoſe office is to take care for the poore Saints and goods of the Church) to the glory of God and benefit of Saints in faith and holineſſe, that the Lord may be found to dwell in the Tabernacle of his Saints with delight. Thus the duty of ſpirituall Fathers.

Queſt. 41. Now what are duties commanded and ſins forbidden of civill Parents and children, in the civill politicall or Common wealth, Eſtate, in the relations between Magiſtrates, Kings, Princes, Governours and people or ſubjects?

Anſ. I ſhall touch theſe, but very p. 654briefly for preſent and what followeth alſo in the other Commandements; But firſt for duties of ſuperiors. The duty of all Magiſtrates,Deut. 17.18 19, 20. Deut. 18.2…. 2 Sam. 13.3, 4. Prov. 29.4 2 Cron. 28.9. 2 Sam. 8.…5 2 Cor. 19.5, 6. Daniel. 4.34, 37 Deut. 16.18, 19, 20. 2 Chron. 15.10. Prov. 28.…1. Magna Charta.Deut 17:18Deut 18:22 Sam 13:32 Sam 13:4Prov 29:42 Sam 8:5Dan 4:34Dan 4:37Deut 16:18Deut 16:19Deut 16:202 Chr 15:10Prov 28:1 Kings, Princes, Governous or any in higher or lower places, is, to know the Law of God, and in the feare of God, in Juſtice and equity to governe the Common Wealth and people over whom the Lord placeth them to rule, according to the Word of God, and the good Lawes of the ſame Nation or Kingdome over which they are, conſidering that they are under God, and governe for God as vice-Gerents under the great Kings of Kings, and Lord and King of Heaven and Earth.

Queſt. 42. What is the ſinne of Magiſtrates and Governours, contrary to this duty, whether they bee in higher or lower places?

Anſ. To Rule or Governe without the knowledg or feare of God, un…uſtly tyrannically, or in any corrupt and ſinfull way, contrary to the Word of God, and good Lawes of the Land, to ſell, or defer, or deny Juſtice and right to any man.

Queſt. 43. You have held forth the duty p. 655of Magiſtrates and Fathers of the common wealth; now what if the duty of ſubjects and people to Kings, Princes Magiſtrates and Governours in higher or lower places?

Anſ. The dutie of ſubjects and people to their Soveraigne Princes, Kings, Magiſtrates or any under God in high or lower places, is, as to know and acknowledge them as their ſuperiors and bee ſubject to them in their reſpective places, to love, honour, preſerve,2 Sam. 18 3. Rom. 13.1 2 Pet. 1.17 1 Pet. 2.13 14. 1 Tim. 2.1 2, 3. Mat. 22.212 Sam 18:3Rom 13:12 Pet 1:171 Pet 2:131 Tim 2:1Matt 22:21 and obey them in their juſt and lawfull commands, to be ſerviceable unto them in and for that which is good, and to pray for them that they may ſo governe that we may leade a quiet and peaceable life in all godlineſſe and honeſty; being carefull to render to Caeſar the things that are Caeſars, and to God the things that are Gods.

Queſt. 44. What are the ſinnes of the people and inferiors againſt their ſuperiors?2 Chron. 36.13. 1 Sam. 24.6 1 Sam. 26.9. 2 Sam. 1.14, 15. Ex 22.28.2 Chr 36:131 Sam 24:61 Sam 26:92 Sam 1:142 Sam 1:15Exod 22:28

Anſ. To Rebell againſt, diſhonour, or diſobey the lawfull and juſt commands of ſuperiors in higher or lower places, Kings, Princes or Magiſtrates; to conſpire Treaſon againſt them, to p. 656curſe them or neglect to pray for them according to the Scriptures is a fearfull ſin.2 Sam. 16.7 Eccl. 10.20 1 Sam. 12.23.2 Sam 16:7Eccl 10:201 Sam 12:23

Queſt. 45. Sir, yoU have manifeſted the duties and ſinnes both of ſuperiours, and inferiours declared in Scriptures, and to he referred unto this fifth …ommandement, as required by the Lord in this Rule of life, and comfortable walking with God in Chriſt in our ſeverall callings and relation; now what uſe may a Chriſtian make of the knowledge of ſo many duties requred, and ſinnes forbidden in this fifth Commandement, and what light from Chriſt to leade us unto Chriſt for our comfort and direction herein?

Anſ. Truly by light from Chriſt, we may here learne to ſee as in a glaſſe our owne inability to keepe the Law of God,2 Cor. 3.52 Cor 3:5 and ſo conſider our extreame neede of Chriſt.

Firſt, as a juſtifyer; that we may ſeeke our reſt not in our ſelves, or any of our owne performances,1 Cor. 1.30 Eph. 2.14. Iſai. 11.10.1 Cor 1:30Eph 2:14Isa 11:10 but in Jeſus Chriſt, who is our peace-maker and whoſe reſt is glorious.

1 Cor. 1.301 Cor 1:30Secondly, as a ſanctifyer and nouriſher in grace by his ſpirit of faith, and preſerver to glory, that receiving dayly p. 657refreſhing nouriſhment from Chriſt by meeting Chriſt in his Ordinances,Mat. 18.20 John. 15.5. 2 Pet. 3.18 1 Pet. 1.3, 4, 5.Matt 18:20John 15:52 Pet 3:181 Pet 1:31 Pet 1:41 Pet 1:5 wee may grow in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord Jeſus Chriſt, and by his power be kept through Faith unto ſalvation.

The Thirty three Claſſis, or company of Queſtions; The ſecond Section.

Queſtion 1.

YOu have opened the fift Commandement at large both in the duties commanded, and the ſinnes forbidden, with the uſe and application as by a light from Chriſt to leade us unto Chriſt, both as a juſtifyer, and a ſanctifyer, to enable us to walke comfortably with Chriſt in the courſe of our lives; Now I pray you tell mee in briefe what are the duties commanded, and the ſinnes forbidden in the ſixt commandement, Thou ſhalt not kill?

Anſ. This Commandement is negative as are the reſt that follow,Gen. 9.6.Gen 9:6 and this ſixt Commandement God gave for preſervation of the life of man as being Gods owne Image, as hee did the p. 658ſeventh commandement for preſervation of a holy ſeed;Malac. 2.15.Mal 2:15 The eight cōmandement for preſervation of mens eſtated, and that propriety which God hath given to men in their owne children or any thing elſe as goods;Deut. 22.1, 2, 3. Pſal. 15.3.Deut 22:1Deut 22:2Deut 22:3Ps 15:3 and the ninth Commandement was given for preſervation of a man or womans good name; and the Tenth to keepe the very heart and deſires of the ſoule in a right order to the glory of God and the good of our Neighbour.

But in every one of theſe negative commandements, the affirmative duties are required, and a walking according to that rule of righteouſneſſe which God planted at firſt in man and woman, when hee created them in his owne Image. I will therefore firſt hold forth the duty, and then the ſinnes forbidden and ſome uſe of them. In this ſixt Commandement, Thou ſhalt not kill, or Th…u ſhalt doe no murther. Prov. 4.23.Prov 4:23In the affimaitive part the Lord requireth of every man woman or child to be carefull to preſerve his or her owne life of ſoule and body,Gen. 1.27.Gen 1:27 Mat. 4.6 7 Prov. 24.11. Job. 29.12Matt 4:6Prov 24:11Job 29:12and the life of his or her Father, Mother, Husband, Wife, Brother, Siſter, Neighbour or of any p. 659Man, Woman,Job. 29.13 Acts 19.30, 31. Deut. 20.19, 20. 2 Pet. 1.7 1 Sam. 15.2, 3. 1 Pet. 3.8, 9. Coloſſ. 3.3. 1 John 3.15. Eph. 4.27. Deur. 30.35. Mat. 10.28 Rom. 3.15 16, 17.Job 29:13Acts 19:30Acts 19:31Deut 20:19Deut 20:202 Pet 1:71 Sam 15:21 Sam 15:31 Pet 3:81 Pet 3:9Col 3:31 John 3:15Eph 4:27Matt 10:28Rom 3:15 or Child in the world by all lawfull and good meanes, in heart word and deed, in love, meekeneſſe, long-ſuffering, and to avoide all occaſion of murder, lying in waite to deſtroy, or the unlawfull deſtroying the life of any of whatſoever degree or condition they or any of them may be; all malice, hatred, envy, raſh anger, diſdaine, evill words or actions, eſpecially old grudges and drunkenneſſe, all occaſion of murders, and forgtefulneſſe of Gods preſence, or want of feare of offending the great God, and ſinning againſt Chriſt Jeſus.

Queſt. 2. You hav… held forth the duties in generall with divers particular meanes to preſerve life, and occaſions of taking life away to be avoyded; Now what are the contrary ſinnes to bee avoided in generall or particular, as briefe as you can?

Anſ. All ſelfe-murder of ſoule,Genſ. 4.6, 7, &c. or body, or any unlawfull killing of any of mankind, much more of Husband,Prov. 18.19.Prov 18:19 Wife, Father, Mother, Brother, Siſter, Neighbour or any other, and all means and occaſion of ſoule killing or unlawfull taking away the life of any,Levit. 19.17.Lev 19:17 is p. 660a ſinne,Mat. 5.22 Prov. 17.19. James 1.20 Mat. 5.21. &c. Acts 5.31.Matt 5:22Prov 17:19Jas 1:20Matt 5:21Acts 5:31 as all hatred, malice raſh anger, envie, contempt, emulation, ſtrife, contentions, and heartriſings, & wrath, eſpecially amongſt brethren want of brotherly love, or uncharitableneſſe in any reſpect, in thought, word or deed, eſpecially evill reviling words, giving the lie, or any other provocations of quarrells, all unlawfull duells or other occaſions whatſoever, all being a degree of murder. Therefore is neceſſity to ſeek to Chriſt for Repentance and Remiſſion of ſins.

Queſt. 3. Now wee have heard the duties of the ſixt; what are the duties of the ſeventh Commandement, Thou ſhalt not commit Adultery?

2 Tim. 2.22. Heb. 13.4. Mat. 5.28. Job. 31.1. 1 Theſſ. 4.2, 3, 4. Epheſ. 5.3, 4. 5. Eph. 5.25. to 33.2 Tim 2:22Heb 13:4Matt 5:28Job 31:11 Thess 4:21 Thess 4:31 Thess 4:4Eph 5:3Eph 5:4Eph 5:5Eph 5:25–33Anſw. The Lord requireth all true chaſtity both in the married and ſingle eſtate, both in minde and in body, both inward, holineſſe and chaſtity of the heart and affections, and outward holineſſe and chaſtity, of the Eyes, Eares, Tongue, and whole man, every one walking as Chriſtians, and as knowing how to poſſeſſe his veſſell in holineſſe and honour; And waiting on Chriſt in uſe of all good meanes to prevent ſinne in this as in other temptations, p. 661the husband reſting ſatisfyed with the love of his own Wife,Prov. 5.18.19.Prov 5:18Prov 5:19 and the Wife of her own Husband, delighting in each others love conſtantly in the Lord.

Queſt. 4. Now you have ſhewed the duty, declare what are the ſinnes contrary to this duly, both in the ſingle and in the Married eſtate, and firſt in the ſingle eſtate?

Anſ. All unchaſte corrupt luſts of the heart,Gen. 6.2. 1 John 2.16. 1 Pet. 2.11 Jam. 1.14.15. Genſ. 38.18. Gen. 39.9. 2 Sam. 11.2, 3, 4. Jer. 5.7. Prov. 7.22 &c. Iſai. 5.11, 12. 1 Cor. 7.9 Levit. 20.…0. Malac. 2.14 15, 16.Gen 6:21 John 2:161 Pet 2:11Jas 1:14Jas 1:15Gen 39:92 Sam 11:22 Sam 11:32 Sam 11:4Jer 5:7Prov 7:22Isa 5:11Isa 5:121 Cor 7:9Lev 20Mal 2:14 or luſt of the eyes and all ſelfe pollution by ſpeculative wantonneſſe, or wicked imaginations, defiling the ſoule, and all fornication or adultery in act, or any meanes or occaſions thereunto in heart, word, or deeds, active or paſſive provoking God to anger, and all keeping company with Harlots, or miſpending time in idleneſſe, drunkenneſſe or any manner of ſin whatſoever.

Queſt. 5. What are the ſins in the maried eſtate?

Anſw. Beſides that all thoſe ſinnes noted in the ſingle eſtate are ſinnes likewiſe in the married, all breach of wedlock or conjugall fidelity and promiſe made betweene man and wife, p. 662either in thought,Lev. 18.18 Mat. 19.9. Heb. 13.4 1 Cor 5.1 Mark 6.17 18. 1 Cor. 7.2, 3, 4, 5. 1 Cor. 6.9, 10. Levit. 18.19, 20. Levit. 20.18. Ezek. 18.6 Ezek. 16.49. Rom. 13.13, 14. Eph. 5.5, 6. Levit. 19.29. Deut. 23.17, 18. Genſ. 34.25.31. Heb. 13.4. Reve. 21.8Lev 18:18Matt 19:9Heb 13:41 Cor 5:1Mark 6:171 Cor 7:21 Cor 7:31 Cor 7:41 Cor 7:51 Cor 6:91 Cor 6:10Lev 18:19Lev 18:20Lev 20:18Ezek 18:6Ezek 16:49Rom 13:13Rom 13:14Eph 5:5Eph 5:6Lev 19:29Deut 23:17Deut 23:18Rev 21:8 word or deede, and all Polygamy, and alſo all unlawfull divorce or ſeparation, all whoredome, adultery, inceſt or any ſuch wickedneſſe whatſoever; all denyall of due benevolence which may occaſion breach or decay of love or ſinne otherwiſe; all effeminateneſſe; and immodeſt immoderate or unſeaſonable uſe of the marriage-bed in times prohibited by the Law of nature, of God, or of lawfull conſent betweene themſelves; all pampering of the fleſh or ſurfeting and drunkenneſſe, to nouriſh unlawful luſts; and all force and raſhnes, all impudent behaviour or proſtitution of themſelves or others Wives or Daughters unto filthineſſe, all wicked whoredome, and all Baudes or keepers of brotherly houſes for meeting, baſe whores, abhorminable and odious to God and good men, occaſions of theft, murther, and Gods judgement, curſe and hell in the end.

Queſt. 6. Since there are ſo many duties required in Husbands, Wives and others, concerning chaſtity in the married and ſingle eſtate, and ſo many ſinnes forbidden deſerving Gods wrath and curſe temporall p. 663ſpirituall and eternall; what uſe ſhould all make of this holy Law of God, and what light from Chriſt to lead us unto Chriſt, for profit hereby?

Anſ. Truly, this light from Chriſt and his ſpirit ſhould leade unto Chriſt,Heb. 13.4.Heb 13:4 to ſee the ſinfulneſſe of all impurity and uncleanneſſe, both in the married and ſingle eſtate; and to ſee and be ſenſible of the wrath of God due to this ſinne and every branch of it:1 Cor. 30: ſo to finde and and feele an extreame need of Chirſt both as a juſtifyer and as a ſanctifyer;2 Pet. 1.10 11.2 Pet 1:10 And to fly dayly to Chriſt, as for a more full aſſurance of pardon, and peace:Eph. 5.1, 2Eph 5:1Eph 5:2 ſo for power to walke in all chaſtity and holy purity of ſoule and body before God,Rom. 12.1 2.Rom 12:1 offering up our ſelves, our ſoules and bodies, a living ſacrifice acceptable to God in Jeſus Chriſt, walking holily before God,John 15.5 Phil. 4.13John 15:5Phil 4:13 not like the World, but like Saints. And this not by our own vertue and ſtrength, but by the vertue of Chriſt.

Queſt. 7. Now you have declared duties commanded, and the ſinnes forbidden in the ſeventh Commandement, and ſo far how to walke comfortably with Chriſt by the power of Chriſt according to the Rule p. 664and light of Chriſt and his ſpirit in the light of this Law or commanding part of Gods word; Pſal. 119.105.Ps 119:105which I pray you are the Duties commanded and the ſinnes forbidden in the eight Commandement which is the next in order, Thou ſhalt not ſteale?

Anſ. The Lord requireth that every man woman and child (according to capacity of inſtruction) now and ever ſhall ſtudy and endevour by all lawfull and good meanes,Mat. 5.43, 44, 45, &c. Acts 7.60 Ex. 23.4, 5Matt 5:43Matt 5:44Matt 5:45Acts 7:60Exod 23:4Exod 23:5 juſtly and with equity and right to preſerve his owne,Galat. 6.10Gal 6:10 and his Neighbours (yea his enemies) goods,Ex. 23.6, 7.Exod 23:6Exod 23:7 children, ſervants or eſtate from all wrong, and all injuſtice whatſoever; their owne alwayes, and their Neighbours when God puts it into the power of their hands to do it,Luk. 10.33 34, 35, &c.Luke 10:33 by word or by deede to manifeſt we love our Neighbour as our ſelves.

Queſt. 8. What are the ſinnes contrary to this duty required in the ſixt Cmmandement?

Anſ. To do unjuſtly any manner of way to the wrong of himſlfe or his neighbour,Prov. 20.25. Malac. 3.8 9.Prov 20:25Mal 3:8 to commit ſacriledge, or rob God in robbing or ſtealing of that which is religiouſly and rightly appointed by God or given to Gods worſhip p. 665or the maintenance of Gods Miniſters or any that pertaine to his ſanctuary;Deut. 19.14. Prov. 22.28. Ex. 21.16. 1 Tim. 1.10. Eph. 4.6. 7. Theſſ. 4.2.8.1. Ezek. 22.13. Prov. 19.26. Prov. 28.24. Exod. 22. Levit. 19.13. 2 Theſſ. 3.6.10, 11, &c. John. 6.12Deut 19:14Prov 22:28Exod 21:161 Tim 1:10Eph 4:6Eph 4:7Ezek 22:13Prov 19:26Prov 28:24Exod 22Lev 19:132 Thess 3:62 Thess 3:102 Thess 3:11John 6:12 to remove the ancient land markes, or to ſteale either perſons children or ſervants, ot any goods or chatells or the like, either by fraud, and cozenage or by force, either ſecretly or openly, under pretence of Law or unlawfully, or other wayes, either from ſtranges or from Parents, or Maſters and Miſtreſſes; is ſin all diſhoneſt gain and all unrighteouſneſſe in contracts, bargaines, buying, ſelling; in any manner of Covenant whatſoever, all oppreſſion, extortion, detaining of goods lent or loſt, is ſinfull theft; and all wicked walking diſorderly and miſpending or waſting of a mans owne eſtate or others, eſpecially Parents or Maſters, in drunkenneſſe, idleneſſe,Prov. 23.21.Prov 23:21 whoring or the like wickedneſſe, yea, by raſh and deſperate entring into ſuretiſhip to the undoing of himſelfe, wife,Prov. 23.29. Deut. 15.7 8, to. 16.Prov 23:29Deut 15:7 children or any other, is ſin: and not to do our ſelves, or to others for the good of our own eſtate, or theirs, poor brother or ſervant, as wee would they ſhould in juſtice, mercy,Mat. 7.12.Matt 7:12 and equity according to Gods word, doe unto us, is a ſin, and a breach of this p. 666eight Commandement of Jehova our God.

Queſt. 9. Certainly here are many duties required, and many ſinnes forbidden in a few words in this Commandement; wherein doth the light of grace from Chriſt direct us to make a right uſe of this light and rule of life in this Commandement?

Anſ. This may ſtill preach unto a poore ſoule an extreme neede of Chriſt both as a juſtifyer and a ſanctifyer,1 Cor: 1.30. and teach iis to waite dayly on Chriſt in his ordinances,Iohn 1.9 Iohn 12.5 Iohn 15.5John 1:9John 12:5John 15:5 and ſeeke dayly to Chriſt for light and direction, and for vertue and power from Chriſt to glorifie God, in walking juſtly and righteouſly in our callings and cariages to God and men,Zach. 5.3, 4.Zech 5:3Zech 5:4 leaſt we ſin againſt God, and procure a curſe upon our labours inſtead of a bleſſing.

Queſt. 10. Now you have thus briefly givtn a light from Chriſt for direction, and helpe if the eight Commandement; what I pray you are the duties commanded, and the ſinnes forbidden in the ninth Commandement, Thou ſhalt not be are falſe witneſſe againſt thy Neighbour?

Anſ. The Lord requireth and commandeth p. 667faithfull Teſtimony,Prov. 14.5 25. Pſal. 15.2. Prov. 12.19. Epla. 4.15.Prov 14:5Ps 15:2Prov 12:19 when men are called to witneſſe truth, and upon all occaſions to ſpeake the truth as it is in the heart, that the heart and tongue ſhould agree to declare the truth when it is to Gods glory and good of our neighbour,Deut. 1.16 17. Exod. 23.2.6.Deut 1:16Exod 23:2Exod 23:6 when rightly and lawfully wee are called to it; for Judges and Magiſtrates to give righteous judgement, Miniſters to Preach truth,Rom. 9.11 Zach. 8.16 17.Rom 9:11Zech 8:16 for Lawyers to ſpeake truth in pleading the cauſes of poore or rich, not to hinder but to further juſtice and equity,Prov. 22.1 Mat. 10.16 1 Cor. 10.31. Prov. 23.Prov 22:1Matt 10:161 Cor 10:31Prov 23 to preſerve the good name of a mans ſelfe or neighbour in truth and righteouſneſſe, with the right ordering of our tongues in wiſdome and truth upon all occaſions, to Gods glory and good of our ſelves and others, ſuperiors or inferiors, or equalls,Pſal. 119.128.Ps 119:128 with love of truth, and hate of falshood and deceit.

Queſt. 11. What are the ſinnes forhidden in this Commandement?Deut. 5.20 Mat. 19.18. Mat. 26.5. Pſal. 52.3, 4, 5. Pſal. 5.3. 1 Sam. 22.9, 10.Deut 5:20Matt 19:18Matt 26:5Ps 52:3Ps 52:4Ps 52:5Ps 5:31 Sam 22:91 Sam 22:10

Anſ. All falſe witneſſe bearing upon Oath, or otherwiſe all procuring of falſe witneſſes, and all vaine lying or uncharitable ſpeaking to the diffamation or hurt of our owne good name, p. 668or the good of any other,Levit. 5.1, 2. 2 Sam. 10.1, 2. Mat. 7.1, 2. Ezek. 22.28. John 7.24.51. Ex. 23.2. Deut. 16.18, 19. Prov. 17.23. Ex. 22.21. Ezek. 22.6, 7. Ezra. 4.19. Dan. 6.7, 8 Iſai. 10.1, 2 Luke 18.2, 3, 4, 5.Lev 5:1Lev 5:22 Sam 10:12 Sam 10:2Matt 7:1Matt 7:2Ezek 22:28John 7:24John 7:51Exod 23:2Deut 16:18Deut 16:19Prov 17:23Exod 22:21Ezek 22:6Ezek 22:7Ezra 4:19Dan 6:7Dan 6:8Isa 10:1Isa 10:2Luke 18:2Luke 18:3Luke 18:4Luke 18:5 ſuperior, inferior, or equalls or their eſtates inward or outward, all concealing of truth; not witneſſing all wreſting or depraving of actions or words contrary to the minde of the ſpeaker or doer, all falſe teaching and lying, all unjuſt judgement without due tryall and examination to finde out truth, and all erring in judgement contrary to truth; all pleading of Lawyers againſt truth, and all wreſting of judgement for bribes or by-reſpects, or hindering the right execution of judgement by unjuſt writs of error contrary to right and truth, to oppreſſe a poore man and his juſt cauſe in law, or conſcience; all unjuſt Records, or concealling truth; all Decrees, Orders and Ordinances contrary to the right rule of truth or equity; all falſe delayes or pretences to delay petitioners for Juſtice and right, like as the unjuſt Judge did the poor widow;Rom. 1.31 Pſal. 15.3. Exo. 23.1.Rom 1:31Ps 15:3Exod 23:1 All theſe are both theft and falſe witnes bearing ſins againſt the eight & ninth Commandement; All Covenant breaking, all credulous receiving of falſe rumors and reports, and nouriſhing them by raſh believeing of them, p. 669or relating them to others;Nehe. 6.6, 7. Ezek. 22.9Ezek 22:9 all carring tales, lying and ſpeaking untruth to deceive in jeſt or earneſt, all officious or pernirious lies in trading, buying,Levit. 19.16.Lev 19:16 ſelling, or otherwiſe, all not ruling the tongue, and all other wayes and meanes of hurting with the tongue by any idle unprofitable or ſinfull words whatſoever.James 3.2, 3. &c.Jas 3:2Jas 3:3

Queſt. 12. Certainly Chriſt in this glaſſe of the Law giveth a light to finde out many ſins and failing, even in the beſt; much more the abominations of wicked men, Gen. 6.5.Gen 6:5who are ſenceleſſe of the villanies of their owne evill hearts; what benefit may we reape by this?

Anſ. Firſt,Mat. 12.36Matt 12:36 to teach wicked men to tremble, the ſinnes of whoſe words are ſufficient to damm them for ever in hell fire.

Secondly, to teach them to prize the Goſpell which brings them news of a Saviour,Prov. 23.26.Prov 23:26 and to waite on the meanes of grace if at any time Chriſt will give them Repentance and faith in Chriſt Jeſus,Heb. 13.5. Phil. 3.11, 12, 13.Heb 13:5Phil 3:11Phil 3:12Phil 3:13 that they may be delivered out of the ſnare of the devill, who are taken captive by him at his will.

Thirdly, to teach Gods children p. 670to fly dayly to Chriſt and meet Chriſt in his Ordinances,2 Pet. 1.9, 10, 11.2 Pet 1:92 Pet 1:102 Pet 1:11 as to gaine more aſſurance of pardon even of their ſinnefull words, ſo for power to ſet a watch before their mouthes,Pſal. 39.1, 2.Ps 39:1Ps 39:2 and to keepe the dors of their lips that they ſinne not in their words,Eph. 4.29, &c.Eph 4:29 but that no corrupt communication come out of their mouthes, but that which is good, to the uſe of edifying that it may miniſter grace to the hearers as becomes thoſe who have received true light from Chriſt.

Queſt. 13. You are now come by Gods goodneſſe and light from Chriſt to the tenth and laſt Commandement of the Decalogue; tell I pray you what are the duties commanded, and the ſinnes forbidden in this Commandement, Thou ſhalt not covet thy neighbours houſe, thou ſhalt not covet thy Neighbours wife, nor his man-ſervant, nor his maid-ſervant, nor his Oxe nor his Aſſe, nor any thing that is thy Neighbours?

Anſ. To open the Commandement a little, and then to give you the duties.

Note firſt, that whereas Moſes here uſeth the Hebrew word Tatehmod covet, in p. 671Deut. 5.21. he uſeth the word Tithavveh deſire, which the Hebrewes make leſſe then to covet, implying a prohibition of the leaſt deſire or thought to commit ſinne in wronging our Neighbour, ſo much as in our hearts or deſires; and in Deuterinomy the wife is named before the houſe; and the field is added, which is not named here.

Secondly, you may obſerve the object of this coveting or deſire prohibited; Thou ſhalt not covet.

Firſt, in particular, not thy Neighbours houſe.

Secondly, not his wife.

Thirdly, not his man-ſervant.

Fourthly, not his maide-ſervant.

Fifthly, not his Oxe.

Sixthly, not his Aſſe.

Seventhly, in the generall. Nor any thing that is thy Neighbours. Now the duty the Lord requireth, is,Prov. 23.26.Prov 23:26 wee ſhould give God our hearts, and every man and woman ſhould be content in their minds,Heb. 13.5.Heb 13:5 hearts and affections with that outward eſtate and condition in which it hath pleaſed God to place them,Phil. 4.11, 12, 13.Phil 4:11Phil 4:12Phil 4:13 to behave themſelves well towards their Neighbours not onelyonly in p. 672outward actions, but inwardly in affections and to declare their love out of a pure heart uſing all meanes to cheriſh and keepe good thoughts,Luke. 10.27. Galat. 5.17 Phil. 4.8. 1 Theſſ. 5.23. Prov. 4.23Luke 10:27Gal 5:17Phil 4:81 Thess 5:23Prov 4:23 deſires and affections in their hearts and to baniſh or keepe evill luſts, and deſires out, that by the ſtrength of Chriſt they may bee carefull not to ſinne, ſo much as in a luſt or deſire or thought againſt God or their Neighbour.

Queſt. 14. Now you have held forth the duty required in the affirmative part of this Commandement; what I pray you are the ſinnes prohibited, and what light from Chriſt the great Prophet of his Church to reveale theſe in the ſacred Scriptures?

Anſ. Firſt, in generall the Lord prohibits all ſinfull or evill concupiſcence,Rom. 7.7.Rom 7:7 and luſts or deſires of the heart, even before conſent of will,Coloſſ. 3.5Col 3:5 originall corruption and pollution of heart,Gen. 8.21. Mat. 15.19Gen 8:21Matt 15:19 the root of evill luſts and deſires; All actuall particular unlawfull paſſions, luſts and deſires of the ſoule,Mat. 5.22.38. 1 John 2.Matt 5:22Matt 5:381 John 2 yea the very luſts of the eyes as our Saviour ſpeaketh, hee that looketh upon a Woman to luſt after her,15, 16. Jo 1.31.1.John 1:31John 1:1 hath committed adultery with her in his heart, and hee that is p. 673but angry with his brother unadviſedly is in danger of judgement;Mat. 5.22. Joſhua 7.21. Pſal. 19.7. Heb. 4, 12.13. Iſai. 55.7.Matt 5:22Josh 7:21Ps 19:7Heb 4:12Heb 4:13Isa 55:7 So that in this the perfection, preciſeneſſe, and exact ſtrictneſſe of the Law of God, appeareth above all humane Lawes whatſoever; becauſe they onelyonly take hold of men ſinning in words or actions,Prov. 24.9. Jere. 17.9, 10. Geneſ. 6.5 James 2.10, 11. Deut. 27.26.Prov 24:9Jer 17:9Jer 17:10Gen 6:5Jas 2:10Jas 2:11Deut 27:26 not of evill thoughts except they bee made manifeſt; But the Lord ſearcheth the very heart; and ſinnefull luſts, deſires, imaginations and thoughts of the heart, make them guilty before God, and ſubject men to the curſe as breakers of Gods moſt holy Law.

Queſt. 15. Bleſsed bee God that you have received this light from Chriſt, to declare the minde of God in theſe Ten Commandements, both concerning duties commanded, and ſinnes forbidden; yea, even to the very thoughts, luſts and deſires of our ſoules good or evill; Now what profit or benefit may the knowledge of this bring to a Chriſtian ſoule, and what light from Chriſt to make a right uſe of this, that God hath revealed by Chriſt and his Spirit in the explication of theſe directions for a comfortable walking with God in Chriſt, in the whole courſe of our p. 674lives, or for terrour of wicked and ungodly men?

Anſw. Firſt, for wicked and ungodly men out of Chriſt,2 Tim. 3.5 Mat. 5.20. Phil. 3.5, 6, 7.2 Tim 3:5Matt 5:20Phil 3:5Phil 3:6Phil 3:7 this declares their damnable condition, be they never ſo civilly righteous, or formally, and outwardly: becauſe the very ſinnefull thoughts and luſts and imaginations of their hearts,Gen. 6.5, 6 Gen, 7.Gen 6:5Gen 6:6 are enough to drowne them in the bottomleſſe Sea of Gods wrath for ever, as the wicked of the old World were drowned in the floud of waters;Mark 9.44Mark 9:44 yea to drowne them in a Sea of fire in hell, where the Worme never dieth and the fire never goeth out,Iohn 6.44 45.John 6:44 except God in time open their eyes to ſee their miſery, and not onelyonly reveale but draw them to Chriſt, that they may believe and repent and bee ſaved.

Secondly, for Gods children, who are Chriſt's and in Chriſt,Rom. 7.7. Rom. 7.23 24, 25.Rom 7:7Rom 7:23 this by light from Chriſt may bee a glaſſe to ſee their many failings, even in their thoughts,Phil. 3.7, 8, 9, 10.Phil 3:7Phil 3:8Phil 3:9Phil 3:10 and teach them firſt to love and prize Chriſt more, who hath freed them from condemnation and curſe of this Law, Chriſt himſelfe being made a curſe for them that they might be p. 675bleſſed; ſecondly to preſſe dayly to meet Chriſt in his ordinances publike,Mat. 18.20Matt 18:20 and ſecret; and that by his ſtrength their hearts may be more and more purified in believing,Acts 15.5Acts 15:5 and that by Chriſts vertue this Law may be written in their hearts,Iſai. 61.3.Isa 61:3 that they bring forth and abound in all fruits of Righteouſneſſe, that God may be glorified by their walking, as a people in covenant with God in Chriſt Jeſus.

Queſt. 16. You have declared what a Chriſtian ſhould doe, and what uſe to make of this Rule of a Chriſtian life, in reſpect of his failings, and inability to keept this Law; But what if the child of God finde himſelfe inabled by Chriſt evangelically to walke after the commandements, ſo as hee believes as his perſon, Gen. 4.1, 2, 3, 4. Heb. 11.4.Gen 4:1Gen 4:2Gen 4:3Gen 4:4Heb 11:4ſo his actions and ſervices and performances are accepted with God in Chriſt how now ought a Chriſtian to behave himſelfe?

Anſ. To rejoyce in all thankfulneſſe in Chriſt Jeſus,2 Cor. 2.12. Phil. 4.4.13. 1 Tim. 1.12, 13, 14.2 Cor 2:12Phil 4:4Phil 4:131 Tim 1:121 Tim 1:131 Tim 1:14 that hee is enabled by Chriſt in any meaſure to obey his Fathers will, and to walke in thoſe ſteps of holineſſe wherin Chriſt walked, in any the leaſt degree in ſincerity,Iſai. 26.8.9Isa 26:8Isa 26:9 p. 676and endevour though not in perfection;2 Cor. 12.9. 1 Cor. 4.4 Luke 17.9 1…. Titus 3.5, 6.7. 1 Cor. 1.30. Iſai. 11.10. Coloſſ. 1.2. 2 Pet. 3.18 19.2 Cor 12:91 Cor 4:4Luke 17:9Titus 3:5Titus 3:6Titus 3:71 Cor 1:30Isa 11:10Col 1:22 Pet 3:18 But yet not to reſt on our ſelves, or in any or all his duties, ſervices, or performances for juſtification before God, or peace of conſcience, but to eye Chriſt in all as a juſtifyer and a ſanctifyer, and to reſt in Chriſt as his peacemaker, whoſe reſt is a glorious reſt, dayly waiting on and ſeeking unto Chriſt for vertue, and power to grow in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jeſus Chriſt, in faith and holineſſe, praiſing God in all good workes of piety and charity,Galat. 6.16.Gal 6:16 and by dayly light from Chriſt walking comfortably with Chriſt and all the Saints in grace, according to Chriſts Rule, untill hee or ſhee ſhall be tranſlated to enjoy that full Communion with all the Saints; yea, with God the Father, Sonne and bleſſed Spirt in Glory for ever.

Queſt. 17. Is there any further directory or light Chriſt, for the attaining of power from Chriſt for this end, both in my generall calling as a chriſtian, and in my ſpeciall calling and particular relation, wherein it hath pleaſed God to place mee?

p. 677Anſ. Certainly, the beſt directory is to waite upon the Lord Jeſus Chriſt, (who is both the way, the truth and the life) both for direction and power, and this dayly, as in private Reading, Meditation, Prayer, and Chriſtian conference, and Chatechiſeing, or building up one another in our moſt holy faith, improving our Chriſtian Communion and ſociety to this end for Gods glory and good edification one of another, ſo in the publike ordinance of Chriſt as oft as may bee in the Preaching of the Word, the adminiſtration of the Sacraments, godly diſcipline and Prayer, that all meanes may bee effectuall in and by Chriſts vertue to our ſoules for Gods glory and the good of Gods Church and children, Iohn 14.6. Iohn 5.39. Coloſſ. 3.16. as 1 Tim. 4.31. Iude. 2.15.

Queſt. 17. What is the chiefe end of all?

Anſ. In all theſe the glory of God, and Kingdome of the Lord Jeſus is to be ſet up, both in our hearts, and lives, untill wee come to Chriſts Kingdome of glory in the Heavens for ever; And in theſe there are alſo many p. 678doubts, queſtions and caſes of conſcience to bee reſolved, which may bee reſolved in time if the Lord permit, 1 Cor. 16.7.

Queſt. 18. I ſhall deſire the reſolution but of a very few queſtions more, and ſtudy to declare my thankefullneſſe to God and you for what J am inſtructed in already; What I pray you is the beſt directory for Prayer and Thanksgiving to God, that J may receive all graces needfull from God in Chriſt, and abilities to glorifie my God in every ſtate and condition of life into which it ſhall pleaſe the Lord to call mee, what light from Chriſt for this grace?

Anſ. Firſt, for the matter of Prayer in generall the Directory is that briefe forme which our Saviour himſelfe taught his Diſciples, as it is recorded by the bleſſed Evangeliſt, Mat. 6. and the 9.10, 11, 12, 13. verſes, and in theſe words according to our Engliſh tranſlation, After this manner pray yee. Our Father which art in Heaven, hallowed by thy Name, thy Kingdome come, thy will bee done in Earth as it is in Heaven, give us this day our dayly Bread, and forgive us our debts as wee forgive our debtors, and leade us not into temptation, p. 679but deliver us from evill, for thine is the Kingdom the power and the glory for ever, Amen.

Queſt. 19. Js this ſufficient direction for matter of Prayer?

Anſ. Yes, certainly if the ſeverall petitions in the Lords Prayer be rightly underſtood, here is an excellent direction for a Chriſtian to ground

Firſt, his confeſſion of ſinne to God.

Secondly, his petition for graces wanting.

And thirdly, thanksgiving for grace received; and to make his requeſts knowne to God, upon all occaſions both for attaining of good, and avoyding of evill according to the Apoſtles direction, Phil. 4.6, 7.

Queſt. 20. But doe you thinke that the repeating or ſaying of this or other Prayers. as commonly people have uſed to doe, to bee a ſufficient manner of Prayer unto God?

Anſ. Certainely Prayer is not only a ſpeaking of words with the mouth,1 Sam. 1.15.1 Sam 1:15 but a powering out of the heart and ſoule to God,Zach. 12.10Zech 12:10 and that by the ſtrength & aſſiſtance of the ſpirit of Prayer, and p. 680this rightly,Rom. 8.26Rom 8:26 in a right manner, in the name of Chriſt, and to a right end; otherwiſe our Prayers are not right, nor acceptable before God, nor can we expect to be heard at Gods hand when we call upon him in Prayer.

Queſt. 21. J ſee then that a bare forme of Prayer is not ſufficient to reſt in, but I muſt have the ſpirit of God inabling of mee to pray with the ſpirit or inner man, as well as with the mouth; and my ſoule muſt bee diſpoſed in a right manner in Prayer, and enabled by the Spirit of Chriſt; but what graces are requiſite in this dutie?

Anſ. Faith, Repentance, Humility, Devotion,See Claſſis 30. 2 Sect. in 2 Commandement, pag. 502. 503, 504. Zeale, Fervency, Perſeverance, and ſuch like Graces, and all in the name of Chriſt; elſe all is nothing; And therefore hee or ſhee prayeth beſt who hath the ſpirit of Prayer, and can powre out his or her heart and ſoule to God in Prayer, as Jacob and Hannab, and other Saints of God have done and have beene heard in their Prayers, with a gratious returne, 1 Cor. 14.15. Iames 1.6. Iſa. 1.15, 16. Acts. 10.2. Hoſea. 12.4. James 5.16. Pſal. 51.17. Iere. 50.4, 5. 1 Theſs. 5.17. John 16.23.

p. 681Queſt. 22. But how ſhall a man get the ſpirit of Prayer and ability to powre out his ſoule to God?

Anſ. I anſwer you muſt not reſt in your Prayers, nor in any duty you performe to God, as if that did ſatisfie the Lord for your ſins, or meritoriouſly procured your peace with God, but you muſt reſt on Chriſt, both for your acceptation of your ſelfe and your prayers upon the Golden Altar, with the incenſe of Chriſts merits, Revel. 8.3.4.

Queſt. 23. In what elſe muſt J wait for the ſpirit?

Anſ. Secondly, you muſt waite upon God in Chriſt in all the meanes of grace, till hee powre out the ſpirit of Prayer into your heart and ſoule, that you may cry Abba Father and be heard as a child of God in Chriſt, Gal. 4.6.

Queſt. 24. What further direction can you give?

Anſ. Thirdly, and laſtly for your better enablement to expreſſe the deſires and groans of your ſoule to the Lord, aske your ſoule but theſe or the like foure queſtions to this or the like effect, as ſpeaking to your ſelfe.

Queſt. 25. What is the firſt?

p. 682Anſ. Firſt, Oh my ſoule to whom or to what glorious Majeſty oughteſt thou to direct thy Prayers, at Morning or Evening or Noone day, or whenſoever, in publike or private, or ſecret thou deſireſt to gaine a bleſſing from the higheſt Heavens, Pſal. 55.17.

Queſt. 26. What ſhall I anſwer to this demand?

Anſ. Let thy ſoule anſwer, and it will tell thee it is to the moſt high God the Poſſeſſor of Heaven and Earth, the ſearcher of all hearts, and the hearer of Prayer preſented to him in the name, and by the mediation of the Lord Jeſus Chriſt, Pſ. 38.13. Pſal. 65.2. Pſal. 77.1. Iohn 16.23.

Queſt. 27. What directions?

Anſ. Endeavour in all fear and humility to begin thy Prayer with the beſt expreſſions of the moſt glorious Name, Nature, Perſons, Properties of this great and glorious Lord God, with the acknowledgement of his Truth, Power and Majeſty, in his Words and Workes, held forth in Scripture, and of thy unworthineſſe which may affect thy heart by the helpe of Chriſts Spirit, with a right temper to powre out thy p. 683ſoule to God in Prayer,1 Chron. 29.11. 2 Chron. 30.18.19. Ezra. 9.6. Nehe. 9.32.1 Chr 29:112 Chr 30:182 Chr 30:19Ezra 9:6 and this in the beſt words thou canſt; but chiefly have regard to thy heart, which the Lord hath a ſpeciall eye unto; And ſo begin thy Prayer as Exod. 15.11, 12.13. Exodus 34.6, 7. 1 Kings 8.23.27. or in the like manner.

Queſt. 28. What is ſecond queſtion?

Anſw. Secondly, aske thy ſoule a ſecond queſtion to this or the like effect, Oh! my ſoule,Ezra. 9.5, 6, 7. Prov. 28.13. Dan. 9.4.5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13.Ezra 9:5Ezra 9:6Ezra 9:7Prov 28:13Dan 9:4Dan 9:5Dan 9:6Dan 9:7Dan 9:8Dan 9:9Dan 9:10Dan 9:11Dan 9:12Dan 9:13 wherein haſt thou offended this great God, to whom thou deſireſt to lift up thy ſelfe in Prayer, that thou mayſt acknowledge thine offences, and ſeeke for further aſſurance of pardon, before thou beg any other favour at the Lords hand, as 2 Chron. 6.36.

Queſt. 29. What direction here?

Anſ. Let thy ſoule firſt looke into the glaſſe of thy owne conſcience,Rom. 2.14, 15. Acts 24.16. Rom. 3.20 Iohn 3.19, 20.36. 1 Iohn 3.23. Rom. 7.18 19, 20.Rom 2:14Rom 2:15Acts 24:16Rom 3:20John 3:19John 3:20John 3:361 John 3:23Rom 7:18 and ſecondly into the glaſſe of the Word of God, both the commanding and promiſing part; both Law and Goſpell, and finde out thy ſinnes, and accuſe and condemne thy ſelfe for thy ingratitude for ſo many former mercies, yea, confeſſe and labour to be humble for thy fall in Adam, for thy originall and p. 684actuall tranſgreſſions in ſtate of nature, but eſpecially thy unthankefulneſſe in dayes of grace,Epheſ. 4.30.Eph 4:30 either in thought, word or deede, wereby thou haſt grieved the ſpirit of God, by whom thou art ſealed to the day of Redemption, and this in as good words as God makes thee able,As Hannah 1 Sam. 1.17.1 Sam 1:17 and with the exerciſe of all thoſe graces the Lord hath given thee; to this end thou haſt here a large field to powre out thy ſoule to God in, if thou canſt finde out thy manifold ſinnes againſt God, or the ſinnes of others which thou deſireſt to confeſſe, and bewaile before God thy Lord, as Daniel and other Saints have done, Daniel 9.7, 8, 9, 10 11.

Queſt. 30. What is the third queſtion?

Anſ. Thirdly, aske thy ſoule a third queſtion, to this or the like effect, Oh my ſoule what doſt thou want, or what is thy requeſt, and the deſire of thy heart to obtaine at the hands of thy God and loving Father in Chriſt?

Queſt. 31. And what wants may I expreſſe?

Anſ. Thy ſoule will tell thee thou wanteſt in the firſt place the aſſurance, or p. 685more full aſſurance of the forgiveneſſe of all thy ſinnes, and of Gods free grace and love unto thee in the Lord Jeſus; thou wanteſt many favours from God for thy body, for thy ſoule, for this, for a better life, for thy wife, thy husband, for Parents, children, ſervants, kindred, accquaintance, thy Neighbours, thy friends, thy enemies; for the Kings Majeſty, for the Parliament, the Kingdom, the City and Country, for Peace and Truth, and a happy union and communion one with another, and with the whole Church of Chriſt; and here expreſſe thy minde as well as thou canſt by the power of Chriſt; the Lord careth not ſo much for fine words as for an honeſt ſincere contrite heart, ſanctifyed by the ſpirit of Chriſt, Iſai. 66.2.

Queſt. 32 What is the fourth queſtion?

Anſ. Laſtly, aske thy ſoule a fourth queſtion to this or the like effect; Oh my ſoule, what haſt thou received from this great and good God, for which thou art bond to render him thankes, and praiſe in the Name of the Lord Jeſus?

Queſt. 33. What rule is there to finde this out?

p. 686Anſ. Let thy ſoule call to minde all or as many as thou canſt of thoſe unſpeakable favours the Lord hath beſtowed upon thee; reckon them up imparticular out of the catalogue of Gods mercies both upon thy owne ſoule in particular, and the Church in generall, to thy ſelfe, to thine, to the people of God; and what a ſea of mercy mayſt thou ſwim in, and enlarge thy thankfulneſſe above all for Gods free love in the Lord Jeſus? as Pſalme 116.12, 13.

Queſt. 34. But did you ever know any man thus learne to pray?

Anſ. Yes, did I know a Chriſtian who could reade never a word upon the Booke, and yet after hee had received theſe directions puting them carefully and conſtantly in practiſe, in a ſecret place before God, the onelyonly ſearcher of hearts and the Teacher of the ignorant, hee did in a ſhort time attaine an excellent habit in Prayer; and was inabled to pray dayly in his Family, in a ſweet comfortable manner; and aſſuredly the Lord is the ſame God ſtill to all his children in Chriſt, and will be ſo to all, who diligently waite on p. 687him in the uſe of the meanes; I conclude with the Apoſtle, now to him that is able to keepe you from falling, and to preſent you blameleſſe before the preſence of his glory with exceeding joy,Jude 24.25. to the onelyonly wiſe God our Saviour, be Glory and Majeſty, Dominion, and Power, now and ever, Amen,

FINIS.

COurteous Reader, there are ſome few Errata which the ingenuous may eaſily find, and amend with their Pen.

End of the text · Immanuel Bourne, A Light from Christ Leading Unto Christ (1646)