Two Treatises 3, Part 1

Two Treatises 3 · Part 1

p. 1THE Mystical Stars In the Right Hand of JESUS CHRIST.

REVEL. 1. 16.

And he had in his right hand seven Stars.

IN this, and the three foregoing verses, we have a Description of that Son of man, which in Vision appeared unto his servant Iohn in the midst of the seven Golden ca… dl…sticks, the Lord Iesus in the midst of the Churches. Him our Apostle here sets forth, as by his Habit and attire, verse 13. so by the p. 2several parts and members of his Body. Three whereof you have in this verse, whereof the Text is part; viz. His hand, his mouth, his face, or countenance. It is the first of these I have now to deal with; his Hand, his Right hand, with the Appurtenances, what he had in it, viz. seven stars; [And he had in his right hand seven stars.]

Where our first Enquiry must be touching the Mysterie, The mysterie opened.what was herein signified. What by these Stars; what by their being in the hand, the right hand of this Son of Man. Begin with the former.

About which,Seven Stars, what. if I had any time to waste, I might shew you the several fancies and conceits of Expositors. Some of which hereby understand seven Angels, Vid. Cornel. A Lapide in Text.Angelical spirits, such as they conceive those to have been which are said to stand before the throne of God, verse 4. Others the Spirit of God, that Spiritus septiformis, whose gifts and graces are seven-fold, many and manifold. Others the seven Planets, each of which they suit with some eminent person shining in his Generation. But I shall not trouble you or my self with these fancies, which I … upon as not worth the mentioning, seeing▪ … who best knew what it was that … hand, himself explains the Mysterie. Which … doth expresly in the last verse of the … [The seven stars are the Angels of the seven Churches.] Not the tutelary Guardian Angels, but the symbolical Angels, the Mysteries of those p. 3seven Churches of Asia. The Angels of the seven Churches.These are the stars here in the hand of Christ.

Stars, foreign; not precious stores, Orient gems, which shine like stars. So I find one conce…ing of it;Stella…us jaspide futro E…sis erat. Virgil. Aeneid. 41. looking upon these as so many rings upon the right hand of this Son of man; every of which should have a precious stone in it. Applying it to the ministers of the Gospel, who being faithful are as the Lord supposeth it concerning Ieconias, Jer. 22. 24. Like the signet upon his right hand, dear and precious unto him. But let that go among the rest. Take the word here as it founds, in the proper and literal signification of it.

Stars] Such are the Ministers of the Gospel. Obs. Gospel Ministers, Stars.Mark it. This is that which I am now to prosecute, Gospel Ministers are stars. Such was their Lord and Master Iesus Christ himself; he was a Star. There shall come a star out of Iacob (saith Ba…m in his prophecy concerning Christ) N…mb. 24. 17. I am the bright and morning star (saith Christ of himself Re…. 22. 10.) A Star, having his birth manifested to the wise men by a Star, Mat. 20 2. to shew that he was that star foretold. A bright star; excelling all others in glory; and a morning star, b…ging the day of grace and glory to the Church, after the night of ignorance and misery. And as the Master so the Servants. They are also stars. Such were the Apostles whom Saint Iohn saw so represented R…l. 12. …. where he tells us of the woman … with the …, having the Moon under p. 4her feet, and upon her head a crown of twelve stars. And who was this woman? why, the Church, the true Church of Christ; which being cloathed with the righteousness of Christ, (who is the Sun of righteousness) and trampling under foot all earthly glory, is beautified and adorned with the doctrine of the twelve Apostles, who were as so many stars. Such were they, and such are their successors; all the true Ministers of Jesus Christ. Gospel Ministers, they are as stars. So called and represented in regard of the resemblances betwixt the one and the other,Resemblances betwixt them. which are divers. I shall onelyonly single out some of the chief and principal, which as I conceive to be most plain, proper and genuine.

1. Stars are set by God in the firmament of heaven. Ministers set by God in the firmament of his Church.So we find it Gen. 1. 16, 17. He made the stars also; And God set them in the firmament of heaven.] And even so hath he set the Ministers of the Gospel in the firmament of the Church, (which is often called by the name of Heaven.) So the Apostle setteth forth their original, 1 Cor. 12. 28. God set some in the Church] speaking of Gospel Ministers. foreign, Constituit; he Constituted, and appointed them to their places in the Church, the Church Catholick visible (for so it must be there understood.) So then a Gospel Ministry is a Divine Institution, not a humane Invention. He that set the stars in the firmament, hath set his Ministers in the Church. And he hath set them there as stars; fixing and setling them by a perpetual ordinance. That is the p. 5difference betwixt Stars and Comets. Comets though they blaze for a time, yet it is but for a time, and that a short time; but Stars are for perpetuity, to continue to the end of the world. Such Stars are the Ministers of the Gospel. How else saith our Saviour what he doth, that he will be with them to the end of the world, Mat. 28. 20.

2. Stars though they be set in the same firmament,They have their several Orbs. yet they have their several Orbs to move in. And so is it with the Ministers of the Gospel, though they be set in the same firmament of the Church, being all Ministers of the same Church Catholick visible, yet they have their several Orbs, their several Charges committed and assigned to them for their inspection and oversight. Thus Paul willeth the Elders, (the Ministers) of Ephesus, to feed the flock over which the holy Ghost had made them overseers, Acts 20. 28. And thus those seven stars in the Text, the Ministers of the seven Churches of Asia, had their several Charges, which were as their several Orbs. And so it is with ordinary Ministers. That being one difference betwixt them and the Apostles. The Apostles were universal Pastors, having the care of all the Churches committed unto them. This was Pauls daily cumbrance, as he tels his Corinthians, 2 Cor. 11. 28. Even the care of all the Churches. Thus were they universal Bishops. But so are not their successors. That of the Bishop of Rome is but a groundless usurpation. Ordinary Ministers p. 6have their severall charges.

3. Stars have their different Altitudes and Magnitudes. Of different Altitudes, and Magnitudes.Some above, others; and some greater then others. One star differeth from another star in glory. 1 Cor. 15. 41. And so is it in the Gospell Ministerie. In the firmament of the Church there are such different stars. Ministers of different Orders and Dignities. So much we may learne from the Apostle in that place forecited 1. Cor. 12. 28. God hath set some in the Church (saith he) first Apostles, secondarily Prophets, thirdly Teachers, &c. Severall Orders, and Degrees. So there were then. And still there are severall Magnitudes even among Ordinarie Ministers. Who differ in respect of theire gifts and ministeriall abilities, even as one Star differeth from another in Glory.

Thus are these Stars set in the firmameut of the Church, having their sevearll Orbes, Altitudes and Magnitudes. But wherefore are they thus set? That is a fourth particular, which I conceive to be here principally eyed and intended▪

4. Stars are set up for Lightes, Set up for Lights, shining.like so many Tapers in the firmament of heaven, to give light to this inferiour world in the night season. So you have the end of their first Creation set down Gen. 1. 16. God made the stars also, and he set them in the firmament of heaven to give light unto the earth:] This is the office, as of the Sun and the Moon, so of the Stars, to give light unto the earth, and that in the night season. And p. 7such is the office of the Ministers of the Gospel-God hath set them up in the firmament of the Church to a like end, that they should be Lights. So it is said of Iohn the Baptist, He was a Burning and a shining light Ioh. 5. 35. And such all the Ministers of the Gospel either are, or ought to be. Ye are the light of the world (saith our Saviour to his Apostles) Mat 5. 14. True it is, such all private Christians in their measure ought to be. This is that which Paul saith of his Philippians Phil. 2 15. Yee doe shine) or shine yee, for so the word may be and is read either Indicatively, or Imparatively, foreign, or foreign.) This they did, or should have done. But this the ministers of the Gospell ought to doe in a speciall manner. They being Lights by office, which requireth this at their hands, that they should give light to others. Which they are to doe two wayes; By Doctrine, and by Example.

1. By Doctrine. 1. By Doctrine.Holding forth to others the word of truth, the word of Life; that so those which yet sit in darkness may see a marveilo…s light. This was Paules errand whereupon he was sent to the Gentiles, viz. to open their eyes, and so turne them from darkness to light Act 26. 18. Which he was to doe by preaching of the Gospell unto them, whereby they might have their eyes opened to see the sinfulness and miserie of their natural condition; and so might be brought to the light of Grace here, and glory hereafter. And such is the office of all the ministers p. 8of Jesus Christ. Which the same Apostle sets forth 2 Cor. 4. 6. God hath shined into our hearts, (speaking of himself and other Gospel Ministers) that we should give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Iesus Christ, that being our selves effectually illuminated, we might be instrumentall in the inlightning of others. This are the Ministers of Christ to doe by word.

2. And as by word, 2. By Example.so by worke. As by Doctrine so by Example. Thus are they to shine before others in an Exemplarie Conversation. So indeede ought all Christians to doe. It is the Commendation which the Apostle giveth of his Thessalonians 1 Thes. 1. 7. They were ensamples to all that beleeved in Macedonia and Achaia. But the Ministers of Christ in a special manner. They beeing by their office shepheards, they should (as shepheards anciently were wont to doe) go before their flocks. Or (to hold to the Emblem in the Text, from which I would deviate as little as may be) as that Star did which was given for a guide to the wise men, to direct them to the place of Christs nativity, It went before them (saith the Text) until it came and stood over where the young child was, Matth 2. 9. Such Stars should the Ministers of God be unto the people. Being given them for Guides, they should not onelyonly shew them light (which that star also did to them) but they should go before them, till they bring them to heaven; being Ensamples to them. So was Paul to the believers of his time. Marke p. 9them (saith he to his Philippians) which so walk, as ye have us for an ensample, Phil. 3. 17.] Whereupon he there propounds himself unto them as a pattern for their Imitation. Brethren, be followers together of me.] And such all Gospel Ministers either are, or ought to be. This is that which Paul requires from Timothy. 1 Tim. 4. 14. Be thou an example to the believers in word, in conversation, &c. And the like from Titus, Tit. 2. 7. In all things shew thy self a pattern of good works.] And it is Saint Peters charge to all of that Tribe. Neither as being Lords over Gods heritage, but being ensamples to the flock, 1 Pet. 5. 3. The Ministers of Christ though they be as stars, set over others by God, yet they may not (as Astrologers tell us some of the stars do) Lord it over their Brethren. Whether over their Consciences or Person…, by an imperious obtruding of their own dictates instead of Gods Commandements (as the Pharisees did) or by carrying themselves Magisterially towards any under their charge. But Patterns they should be; teaching the people as by Doctrine so by Example. Here is a fourth resemblance, to which add a fifth.

5. Stars have light and give light, but it is a borrowed light. In that differing from the light of the Sun, 5. Their light is borrowed.whis is originally in the body of it. The Sun being the fountain of light, it hath light in, and from it self. But so have not the stars. Their light is a borrowed light which they receive from the Sun. And such is the light p. 10which the Ministers of Christ communicate unto others, it is but a borrowed light. Therein differing from that light, which is in Christ; who is the Sun of Righteousness (as he is called, Mal. 4. 2.) the fountain of all spiritual light. That was that true light, (saith Saint Iohn, speaking of Christ, Iohn 1. 9.) foreign, light it self; Original light. So was not Iohn the Baptist (as the verse foregoing hath it) [He was not that light.] A light he was, and that a shining, an eniment one, but not that light, that Original light. This was onelyonly Iesus Christ. He is the Sun. As for his Ministers they are but stars, receiving their light from him. I have received from the Lord that which also I delivered unto you, saith the Apostle to the Church of Corinth, touching the Doctrine of the Sacrament. And the like may be said of the whole doctrine of the Gospel. This the Ministers of Christ receive, before they can deliver it: Being themselves enlightned, before they can enlighten others. God who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined into our hearts (saith the Apostle) that we should give the light &c. (in that place fore-named, 2 Cor. 4. 6.) Hence is it that sometimes they are compared to Candl…s or Lamps. Ye are the light of the world (saith our Saviour to his Apostles) Matth. 5. 14. But what light? why, not Sun-light, but Candle-light. So the verse following explains it. [Neither do men light a Candle, and put it under a bushel:] meaning that he had not communicated p. 11unto them that light, to the end that they should hide it. And thus it is said of Iohn the Baptist, that he was a shining light, John 5. 35. But what light? why, a Lamp, or a Candle; for so the word there properly signifieth, foreign, (whence cometh the Latine word Lychnus, and the English Linke.) And such were these Angels, the Ministers of these seven Churches of Asia; the Churches being the Candlestick (as they are here represented to Iohn in this vision) they were the Candles in them. Now a Candle or Lamp, how great soever the light be that it giveth, yet it is but a borrowed light. And so is it with the Ministers of the Gospel; Their light is but a borrowed light. Here is a fifth resemblance. Take one more.

6. Stars are Influentiall. They are Influential.As they all give light, and the same light, so they have their severall Influences. What those Influences are, it is in a great measure a Mysterie, a secret to us. But that they have such Influences, it is not to be questioned. So much we may learne from God himselfe, who Putteth the Question to Iob, (Cap. 38. 31.) Canst thou binde the sweete Influences of Pleiades, or loose the bands of Orion? Pleiades and Orion, two of the Constellations of heaven. Pleiades, the seven stars, which rising in the spring bring warme showres for the moistning and refreshing of the earth. Orion, a winter Star, which brings with it hard frosts, which are there called the Bands of Orion, because the earth is as it were bound with them. Thus are p. 12they both Influentiall; changing and altering the Earth and the Ayre. And like Influences have these Stars, the Ministers of the Gospell, upon the Persons and places over which they are set; working upon them, as by their Doctrine, so by their Examples. Both which are very Influentiall, and operative for the changing and altering of the people, either for the better, or the worse. Hence is it that they are compared to salt, Mat. 5. 3. Ye are the salt of the earth.] Salt being layed upon a peice of flesh, it hath in a little time a great influence upon it, in altering the taste of it, seasoning it and making it savorie. And thus the Ministers of Christ, by their wholesome and savorie doctrine and holy example they season others; changing and altering them for the better. And on the other hand, being bad themselves, they infect others. So as what the Lord speaks of the Prophets and people of Israel in another sense. Hos. 4. 9. We may use it in this, Like Preist, Like people. Surely it was not without cause that the Lord sending his destroying Angell to Ierusalem, he orders him to begin at the Sanctuarie Ezek. 9. 6. From thence came the rise of all those Abominations, that were done in the midest of that Citie (of which he speakes verse. 4.) they began at the Preists; who if they had not been first corrupted themselves, the people had not been what then they were. Thus are the Ministers of God like Stars, for those Influences which they have upon the people.

p. 13To which I might add (did I not feare the straining of this string) as an enlargment,They have a power of Binding and Loosing. or further improvement of this Resemblance. Stars having such an Influence upon the earth, they have also a power of Binding and Loosing. Such are the properties of those two a foresayd Constellations. Pleiades and Orion. The one bindeth the earth with the hard frost, the other looseth it by the warme ayre and showres. And such a power hath Jesus Christ given to these Stars, the Ministers of his Gospel, a Binding and a Loosing power. This power he gave to Peter Mat. 16. 19. I will give unto thee the keyes of the Kingdom of heaven; and whatsoever thou shalt bind upon earth shall be bound in heaven; whatsoever thou shalt loose upon earth, shall be loosed in heaven.] But not to Peter alone, but to the …est of the Apostles and Disciples as well as to him. So you shall finde it Ioh. 20. 23. Where explaining what he meant by binding, and loosing, with their solemn Mission he giveth them this Commission, [Whosoever sinnes ye remit, they are remitted unto them, and whosoever sins ye retayne, they are retayned. This power did Jesus Christ give unto them, and their successors; putting the Keyes of the Kingdom of heaven into their handes, the Keye of Doctrine; and the Keye of Discipline; whereby they open and shut, binde and loose; binde the Obstinate, loose the Penitent; both which they doe in a Ministeriall and declarative way. Even as it may be conceived of those two foresayd Constellations, p. 14Orion and Pleiades; the one bindeth the earth, the other looseth it. But how? Not meerely by their owne influence, as being the sole, or yet principall Cause of that Change, for that is to be attributed to the Sun, which by his Recess, and returne maketh that alteration; but they by their rising notifie those changes. Even so is it with these Stars the Ministers of Christ, what herein they doe, they doe it not by their owne power or vertue (as Peter said of his healing the Cripple Act. 3. 12.) but by Anthoritie from Jesus Christ, in his name declaring what his will and pleasure is. Here is a sixth Resemblance. To which I might yet add some other, which are reached unto me by other handes. But I would not seeme to straine the Allegorie, by drawing that from it which it will not naturally and voluntarily yield. And I shall have occasion to touch upon some; and diverse other in the Application. Which let it be directed both to Ministers and People.

1. For the former,Applic. To Ministers. were the Audience sutable, I might from hence take a just occasion to speake largly to the men of my owne Tribe; minding them of their Duty, and exciting them to the discharge of it. But however, give me leave here to present to you,Ministers Duties, why to be opened before the people. what more immediately and properly concerneth them. Hirein I shall preach to my self; and you must give us leave sometimes so to doe. Whereof you may have the benefit afterwards. Besides, you hearing what the duties of Ministers are, may p. 15be the better able to doe, what you are … onelyonly allowed, but in some cases required to doe, viz. to say to Archippus (as Paul biddeth them Col. 4. 17.) take …de unto the Ministery which thou hast received in the Lord, that thou fulfill it.] I meane, in a Christian and becoming way, to excite and admonish those whome God hath, or shall set over you, in case they shall be found remiss or negligent in their Ministerial duty and service. Upon this account I shall give an account to you, of what more properly concerneth my selfe and others of my Brethren. To whome the sum of what I have to say is onelyonly thus much; that seeing they are set by God as Stars in the firmament of his Church,Ministers are to do office of Stars. they would performe the like offices to those committed to their charge, as the Stars doe to this Inferiour world.

But before I come to prosecute this Exhortation, let me first premise one or two Premonitions.Provided first that they be Stars. Let them first see that they be Stars, such as are so placed by God in the firmament of his Church▪ Therein do true Stars differ from Comets. The one is fixed by God, the other ascends of it self. Let not the Ministers of 1the Gospell doe so,Set in the Church▪ by God. Let not them ascend into Mose's Chayre, (as that new starre is sayd to have done into Cass… p…s, in the yeare, 1572) of themselves; thrusting themselves whether upon the Ministeriall function, or yet particular Charge; without a regular and warrantable mission. So did those false Prophets in Ieremies p. 16time, of whome the Lord complayns Ier. 23. 21. I have not sent these Prophets, yet they ran; I have not spoken unto them, yet they prophesied.] Thus did they all on their owne heades, having neither Mission, nor Message from God. Let it not be so with Gospell Ministers. They who take that office upon them, let them looke to their calling. Noe man taketh this honour to himselfe, but he that is called of God, as Aaron was, saith the Apostle, of the Priesthood Heb. 5. 4. speaking not de facto, but de jure; not what men doe, but what they ought to doe. Uzziah though a King, must not take upon him the office of a Preist 2 Chron. 26. 16. No more ought any to usurpe upon a Gospell ministerie; taking upon them to dispence Ordinances in a ministerial way, without a warrantable calling from God. Let them see that they be Stars, not Comets: that they be set by God in the firmament of his Church.

2. And being thus set,Illuminated themselves. let them now seeke after Illumination, that they themselves may be inlightened. So are the stars, being set in the firmament they are inlightned, without which they would be of no use. And this let these mysticall stars seeke after; even a supernaturall illumination. God hath shined into our hearts (saith the Apostle) that we should give the light, &c. Ministers, that they may inlighten others they must first be enlightned themselves. And this let them seeke after. And where shall they have it? Why, where have the stars their light, p. 17but from the Sun? And where should Gospel Ministers have their light, but from Iesus Christ. He was the true light which lightens every man that cometh into the world, it is spoken of Christ Ioh. 1. 9. Who ever it is that is inlightned, whether with a naturall or supernaturall light, they receive it from Christ. And to him let his Ministers looke; and that not onelyonly for the former, but the latter of these; that they be inlightned with a supernaturall Illumination; having not onelyonly their heads but hearts enlightned; that they may be indued with a cleare sound and affectionable knowledg of divine and heavenly Mysteries. And being thus seated, and thus qualified, then

(In a third place) Let them doe the office of stars, Then shining before others.holding forth that light which they have, shining before those over whome they are set. Which they are to doe in those two wayes forenamed. By Doctrine, by Example.

1. By Doctrine, By Doctrine, preaching the word,holding forth the light of Gods truth, the word of life. This are all Christians to doe in a practicall way. So Paul willeth his Philippians Phil. 2. 16. Holding forth the worde of Life; viz. in their lives and Conversations, by walking answerable to it. But the Ministers of Christ in a doctrinall way; Communicating that light of saving knowledg which they have received, in and by the preaching of the word.which they are to do. Which they are to doe.

1. Voluntarily and freely. Soe doe the stars give forth their light.Voluntarily & freely, And so should Ministers p. 18theirs. Freely you have received, Freely give (saith our Saviour to his Apostles, willing them to communicate their guifts for the good and benefit of others, and that freely. And so should the Ministers of the Gospell theirs. Not doing what they doe by constraint, nor yet out of Covetousness, or any other by and sinister respect, but willingly, freely. So Saint Peter giveth it them in charg 1 Pet. 5. 2. Feede the flock of God which is among you (or, as much as in you is, foreign) taking the oversight thereof not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready minde. foreign. Four words which I could wish all the Ministers of Jesus Christ had them written upon their hearts; that remembring them they might practise accordingly.

2. Doing this freely,Faithfully and sincerely. let them also do it faithfully and sincerely. In doctrine shewing sincerity (as Paul willeth Titus Chap. 2. verse 7. First, holding forth no other light then what they have received. Not their owne light. Herein again true Stars differ from Comets. Comets being set on fire, hold forth their own light; so doe not the Stars; they hold forth no other light then what they have received from the Sun. So ought the Ministers of Christ to doe; not like those false prophets of whome the Lord complains Ier. 23. 16. that They spake a vision of their owne heart, and not out of the mouth of the Lord.] Comet-like, being set on fire with ambition p. 19or vaineglory, or some other by and sinister respects, they held forth their owne light. So ought not the Ministers of Christ to doe. Star-like, they are to hold forth no other light then what they receive from the Sun; no other doctrine then what they receive from Christ. I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you (saith the Apostle.) And then (secondly) all that light. So doe the Stars; they doe not hide, or hold back any of that light which they have received. No more may the Ministers of God any of the light of divine truth. Such was Pauls faithfulness in his Ministerie, that he did not shun to declare unto the Churches all the Counsell of God; so he tels the Elders at Miletum Act. 20. 27. All the Counsell, viz. What was profitable for them (he explains it verse. 20.) And such should the faithfulness of Gods Ministers be. They are not to hide or hold back any part of that light which they have received. That which Balaam once spake against his will. Numb. 24. 13. Ministers should freely and conscientiously resolve upon, and practise. What the Lord saith unto them, that to speake. OnelyOnly that, all that.

Thirdly,Constantly and assiduously. And in so doing let them be assiduous, and vnwearied. So are the Stars in their Motions and operations, in giving light to the earth, they are unwearied, holding on their courses, night after night. A fitting patterne for the Ministers of the Gospell, who should be thus unwearied in their Ministeriall services. So was Paul, who p. 20tels his Corinthians that the Care of all the Churches came upon him daylie. 2 Cor. 11. 28. foreign, a multitude of cares, which came like an Armie upon him (for that is the proper signification of the word,) these came upon him foreign, daylie. So should the Care of those particular charges over which God hath set his Ministers, come upon them, and that daylie. They should be assiduous in seeking of their good; unwearied in their Gospell Ministration, in the worke and services of their God. This is that which Paul requires from all Christians 1. Cor. 15. last. Finally my brethren, be ye steadfast unmovable, alwayes abounding in the worke of the Lord.] And let it be directed in a speciall manner to the Ministers of Christ, who are imployed in the service of the Lord after a speciall manner. Let them be therein unwearied; foreign, not giving in, not fainting (as Paul saith of himselfe that he did not 2. Cor. 4. 1.)

And so doing let them now for their Incouragement,An incouragement for faithful labourers. take notice of what there followeth. For as much as you know that your labour is not in vaine in the Lord] So shall not the labour of private Christians be: much less the labour of Gods Ministers. Who thus shining as stars here, shall shine as Stars hereafter. So runs the Promise in express terms Dan. 12. 3. They that be wise (Teachers (saith the Margin, and so the word (Hammashkilim) may be taken transitiuely, for facientes intelligere, such as make others wise) shall shine as the brightness of the firmament, p. 21and they that turne many to righteousness, (which is properly the Ministeriall worke) as the Stars for ever and ever. Being honoured both of God and men; shining in their memories upon earth, (the Apostles are as twelve stars upon the Churches head Rev. 12. 1.) and in their persons in heaven.

2. I have done with the former and chief part of the Ministerial office;Example. which is to shine before others in Doctrine, to which (in the second place) they are to joyn Example. Which (as I have already shewn you) is not a little influential upon the people especially upon the vulgar common sort: who are for the most part more led by Example then Precept. Praeceptis ducimur, Exemplis trahimur. Precepts lead, Examples draw. And of all examples, none more then of Ministers. They being to some as the Sun-diall, by which men set their Clocks; or as the Stars to the Sea-man, by which he steareth his course. The consideration whereof should make them the more wary and circumspect in the ordering of their lives and conversations, that they may he exemplary to others. That is that which both Paul and Peter require from them in the places forecited, 1 Tim. 4. 12. Tit. 2. 7. 1 Pet. 5. 3.

Quest. But wherein should they he so exemplary unto others?Ministers wherein they are to be Examples to others.

Answ. In setting forth of this I will not go from the word I have in hand. OnelyOnly send them to the Stars, which I shall propound as patterns p. 22to them in those things wherein I would have them to be patterns to others.

11. Let them be Examples to others in Purity. Such are the Stars, In Purity.pure creatures. Not a spot, not a blemish to be seen in any of them, (I mean in the fixed stars. True indeed in the Moon there are spots, but not so in any of the fixed stars, which are most properly the Ministers Embleme. They are all pure.) And such all the Ministers of Christ should labour to be, Pure. The Priests under the Law must not have a blemish, Levit. 22. Patterns of Purity. This is one thing wherein Paul would have Timothy to be a Pattern (in that place forenamed, 1 Tim. 4. 12.) Be thou an example of the believers. But wherein? why, among other things, in Puritie. And again Chap. 5. 22. Keep thy self pure: And herein should all the Ministers of Christ be exemplary to others. In purity of Conversation; keeping themselves unspotted of the world; free from the evils of the times and places wherein they live: that their lives be not spotted with any scandalous crimes. Which if they be, they will be (like those spots in the Moon) obvious to every eye, and no small blemish to their holy function.

22. As in Purity, so in Zeal.In Zeal. Stars as they shine, so they sparkle. Therein differing from the Moon, as a Diamond doth from a Christal. The one shines, but it is but with a pale, wan light. The other both shines and sparkles. And so should it be with the Ministers of Christ p. 23Whilest they shine in purity, they should sparkle with zeal. Such a light was Iohn the Baptist, not onelyonly shining, but burning, John 6. 35. shining with holiness, and burning with zeal. And such should all the Ministers of God be; as pure, so zealous. That is the thing which the Spirit requires from one of these seven Angels, the Minister, or Ministers of the Laodicean Church, Rev. 3. 19. Be zealous. And so should all the Ministers of Christ be; zealous for God, for his truth, for his worship and service; zealous against Errours, Heresies, all kind of doctrinal or practical wickedness. Such were Moses and Phineas, whose zeal standeth upon record to their eternal honour. And such was Paul, of whom the story tels us, Acts 13. 9. that when he saw Elimas the Sorcerer opposing him as he did, not so much his Person as his Doctrine, Being filled with the Holy Ghost (saith the Text) he set his eyes upon him. His eyes even sparkled with a holy indignation against him. And so, when he came to Athens, and there saw the City so wholly given to Idolatry, his spirit was stirred within him (saith the Text, Acts 17. 16▪) foreign. Exacerbabat spiritus ejus, his spirit was sharpned, it had an edge set upon it; it was so stirred that he could not but break forth into an open and tart reproof. And so was it with our blessed Lord and Master, the Lord Iesus. However in his own personal concernments none more patient [that Lamb of God,] yet in the cause of his father none more p. 24zealous. The zeal of thine house hath eaten me up. It is spoken of Christ, Iohn 2. 17. Such was his holy zeal for the service and honour of God his Father, that it was as a fire in his Breast, continually feeding upon his spirits, so busying and taking up his thoughts that it made him even regardless of himself. And such should be the zeal of his servants, his Ministers.

OnelyOnly let them see that it be a well tempered zeal.Their zeal must be well tempered. Not fiery, not furious. In this do Stars differ from Comets, Blazing-stars; Both sparkle; but the one in a temperate, the other in a furious way, as if they would set the world on fire. Such zeal the Ministers of God must be ware of. When Iames and Iohn, having had some affront offered them, and their Master, by the Samaritans, wo refused to receive them, propound to him this course of proceeding against them, wilt thou that we command fire to come down from heaven to consume them? he presently makes answer to them with a Check, ye know not what manner of spirit ye are of, Luke 9. 54, 55. Giving them to know, that their counsel did not suit with their calling; neither did it favour of a truly Ministerial spirit; which should be a spirit of meekness and gentleness. Zealous the Ministers of God may be, ought to be. But let it be for God, and not for themselves. And then let their fervour be tempered with a wise and holy discretion. Let them sparkle where need is, but let it be like Stars, not like Blazing-stars.

p. 25Thirdly,In Humility. As in Puritie and Zeale, so in Humilitie. Hereof the Stars are very proper Emblems (as Lapide hints it upon the Text.) Which though they be vaste bodyes, most of them far bigger then the Earth, yet how little doe they seem to be. And such should the Ministers of the Gospel be; what euer they be for place, for partes, for gifts, yet they should be little in their owne eyes· So was Paul; however not Inferiour in place or gifts to any of the Apostles, (which being thereunto provoked by his emulous Adversaries he sometimes asserts and stands upon. 2 Cor. 11. 5. I suppose I was not any whit behind the cheifest of the Apostles. And againe in the Chapter following verse. 11. he inculcates the same. In nothing am I behind the very cheifest Apostles,] Yet in his owne eyes how low was he? Even the least of them. So much we may heare him elswhere acknowledging; 1 Cor. 15. 9. I am the least of the Apostles.] Yea the least of Saints. So he tels his Ephesians, cap. 3. verse. 8 VntoUnto me who am least, then the least of all Saints is this grace given.] foreign, a double diminitive Less then the Least, i.e. for the least. So little was this great Apostle to himself. Even as nothing. That is his Expression elswhere, in that place forenamed, 2. Cor. 12, 11. In nothing am I behind the very cheifest Apostles, though I be nothing. Thus whilst he tooke notice of the abundant grace of God to him in bestowing such gifts, as he had done, upon him, yet with all he acknowledgeth his owne nothingness. How in, p. 26and of himself he was nothing, nothing without Christ; even as the stars are nothing without the Sun, of no use, good for nothing. Such was Paul in his own eyes, And he would not seeme over great in the eyes of others. It is the reason which he giveth why he did forbeare to speake somewhat of himself which otherwise he might justly and truely have done 2. Cor. 12. 6. Now I forbeare (saith he) lest any should thinke of me aboue that which he seeth me to be.] So would he have those his Corinthians; and others to looke upon him, as men doe upon the Stars. which though great in themselves, yet make but a little shew. And such should the humility of Gods Ministers be, the more eminent they are in place and gifts, the more humble should they be (Even as the stars the higher they are, the lesser they seeme.) So serving their God in all humility of minde (as Paul saith of himself that he did Act. 20. 19.) A grace which is no small Ornament to private Christians: Whome therefore the Apostle presseth to seeke after it. Eph. 4. 2. Phil. 2. 3. But specially to Ministers; who of all other sho…ld be most humble. Not thinking highly of themselves; not seeking after popular applause, nor yet affecting any worldly grandur. Let them leave this to the men of this world, (whereof the Moone is an Emblem, which though less then any of the Stars, yet being nearer the earth, seemeth far greater:) Let them, such as minde earthly things, let them seeke after an earthly greatness. But let it not be so with p. 27the Ministers of Christ. That is the interdict which our Saviour giveth to his Disciples, Mat. 23. Where he forbids them to doe as the Scribs and Pharisees did. Be not ye called Rabbi, verse 8. Neither be ye called masters verse 10. He would not have them ambitiously to affect high and swelling titles of honour and preeminence. And afterwards when his Apostles were contesting about a supremacy; reasoning among themselves which of them should be greatest (as Saint Luke hath it, Luke 9. 46.) greatest in the kingdom of heaven (as Saint Matthew explains it, Mat. 18. 1.) that is, in that temporal Kingdom of Christ, which they then dreamed of, our Saviour instead of answering that Question which they propounded to him, (which they did in a covert and reserved way, as Saint Matthew there sets it down, At the same time came the Disciples unto Iesus, saying; who is the greatest in the kingdome of heaven? Thus they propose the Question in a general way, afar off, as being ashamed to speak out, to speak what they meant, and to let their Master know what it was that they had been parling about) he perceiving the thought of their heart (as Saint Luke there hath it vers. 47.) taking notice of their Ambition, he taketh a Childe, and set him by him (saith Saint Luke) set him in the midst of them (saith Saint Matthew) so presenting him to them as an Emblem, and Pattern of that which he would have them to learn, viz. true Humility and kowliness. Not to think highly of themselves, nor to seek p. 28great matters for themselves; not to affect earthly greatness, temporal honours and dignities and promotions. So he there explaineth his own meaning in the verses following, Matth. 18. Except ye become as little children, verse 3. whosoever shall humble himself as this little childe, the same is greatest in the Kingdome of God, vers. 4. Thus doth he point them out the way to true greatness; to be great in the eyes of God and his Saints, viz. to be little in their own. And so it is. As pride maketh way for a downfal, so humility is the way to preeminence. And in this grace let all the Ministers of Jesus Christ be exemplary to others. Patternes of Humility. I will be brief in the rest.

Fourthly,In Sobriety, Modesty, Gravity. As of Humility so of Sobriety, Modestie, Gravity. Hereof also the Stars may be looked upon as Emblems. This being a difference betwixt true Stars and Comets. Comets, Blazing-stars, they do diffluere, flie out, in a loose way, having their long trains and streamers, their tresses and hairy bushes, from whence they are called Stellae Crinitae, or Comatae, hairy Stars with their loose locks and long mains. No fit patterns for the Ministers of the Gospel, who of all others may not so flie out in any loose way, so as to be in any kind exorbitant, whether in meat or drink, or apparel, or hair; But in all, patterns of Sobriety, Modesty, Gravity, therein resembling the true fixed stars, which are of a plain and simple aspect.

p. 29Ffthly,In Regularity and Constancy. Of Regularity, and Constancy. In this the fixed stars differ both from Comets and Planets. The one are regular and constant in their motion, the other varying and wandering. Now such should Gospel Ministers be. Not foreign (as Saint Iude saith of some in his time, Iude 13.) Planets or Comets, wandring stars; but fixed; Fixed as in their places and charges (which they ought not to desert, so as to remove from place to place, without just, weighty and warrantable cause; Being stars let them keep their Orbs) so in their Iudgments and Practices; not changing or turning with the times; not entertaining every new Doctrine under the name and notion of New-Light. No the Stars keep their old light. And so let the Ministers of Christ do their old Doctrine, the old truths of God. What though the world have heard of them never so often? So it hath seen the light of the Stars; and yet they still hold forth the same.

Sixthly,In Patience, and undanted Resolution. and lastly, of Patience, with a couragious and undaunted resolution. Hereof again the Stars are Emblems; which shine in the dark of the night, and sparkle most in the coldest seasons. And such should be, as the Patience, so the Courage of Gods Ministers. It is that which the Spirit taketh notice of in some of those Angels, the Ministers of these seven Churches; I know thy works, and thy labour and thy patience, (saith he to the Ephesian Angel Rev. 2, 3.) I know thy faith and patience (to the Thyatirian, p. 30v. 19. And as their Patience, so their Courage in appearing for Christ in those sad times. I know thy workes, and where thou dwellest, even where Satans seat is, and thou holdest fast my name, and hast not denyed my faith, even in those dayes where in Antipas was my faithfull Martyr,] that is the testimony given to the Angel of the Church in Pergamus verse. 13. And the like to the Philadelphian Angel, cap. 3. 8. Thou hast kept my word and hast not denyed my name,] Thus did they shine as stars in that darke night; in that …ad persecution under Domitian the Emperour, yet still they stood by it, holding forth the word of truth. Like Patience and Courage there should be in all the Ministers of Christ, In evill times they should stand by their flocks. So doe the Stars; when neither Sun nor Moone appeare, yet they stand by it, and shew themselves. So should the Ministers of Christ even in times of persecution stand by their Charges. It is the Character which our Saviour giveth of the hireling shepheard Ioh. 10. 12. When he seeth the wolfe coming (in times of danger) he leaveth the sheepe, and flieth. Whereas the true shepheard is readie to lay down his life for his sheepe, verse 13. Thus should the Ministers of Christ in evill times, in the darke night of Persecution stand by the people committed to their charge. And standing by them, they are then to shew themselves, then appearing for Christ. That was Peters resolution, and it was a good one, had he not taken it up in his owne strength. Though all men shall be offended p. 31because of thee (saith he to his Master) yet will I never be offended, Mat. 26. 33. And such should be the resolution of the Ministers of Christ, which they should take up in the name and strength of their Lord and Master; Though all others should forsake him, yet to stand by him. Though Sun and Moone withdraw▪ the Rulers and Potentates of the earth doe not appeare for him, but it may be against him (which too often they doe, as the Psalmist sets it forth Psal. 2. 2.) then let these stars shew themselves, the Ministers of Christ then appearing, then shining, shining as lights in the midest of a froward, crooked perverse generation.

Thus have I showne you the duty of Ministers in reference to the people over whome God hath set them. Before whome they are to shine as stars, as Lightes both by doctrine and Example. To these I might yet add some other vsefull admonitions. One in reference to themselves. And two in reference to their fellow Brethren, And yet one other in reference to their Flocks. I shall still hold to the Emblem in hand, prosecuting the same Allegory.

1. In reference to themselves.Ministers should be heavenly minded. Let them be heavenly minded. Stars are inhabitantes of heaven, having their abode there, not descending upon the earth, nor coming near it. So should it be with Gospell Ministers. Our conversation is in heaven (saith Saint Paul) Phil. 3. 20. True it is, such should the Conversation of all Christians be. Being heaven-borne, borne from above, p. 32foreign (as our Saviour hath it Ioh. 3. 3.) they should minde and seeke the things which are above (as the Apostle elsewhere exhorts them Col. 3. 1, 2. But the Ministers of Christ in an especiall manner. They should have their foreign, their Converse in heaven. Thither it was that Paul was once wrapt in an Extasie. 2 Cor. 12. into the third heavens. And thither should the Ministers of Christ frequently ascend by divine Meditation and Contemplation. Entering into that holy of holies, not as the High-Preist did into that Typicall one, once in the yeare, but often, daylie; nay living there, having their constant abode there. Not being foreign, men of the earth, plunging themselves into the affaires and business of this world; but so using it as if they used it not, living a bove it. This in reference to themselves.

Secondly, In reference to their fellow Brethren let them take heede of two things.

1. Of Clashing with them.Not clashing with their Brethren. Who ever saw the Stars doe so? True indeede, Meteors we may see sometimes spitting and shooting and darting, but not so the stars. Among them what a constant harmonie and agreement doe we see? And O that there were the like amongst all the true Ministers of Jesus Christ! that there might be no such clashing, no such spitting, darting or shooting one against another, whether from the Pulpit or the Press. But that all of them might thinke, and speake, and write the same thing, so keeping the unitie of the spirit p. 33in the bond of peace. Which all Christians should greatly affect, so the Ministers of Christ in a speciall manner. In the meane time all cumbring against the common Enemie, even as the Stars in their courses fought against Sisera, Iudg. 5. 20. But having peace one with another (as our Saviour giveth it in charge to his Apostles, Mark 9. last.)

Not but that in some cases Ministers both may and ought to reprove their Brethren. In what cases Ministers may and must ap…eare▪ … gainst their Brethren.So did the Apostle Saint Paul; who not onelyonly appeared against the false Brethren, who went about to introduce their dangerous doctrines, to whome (as he saith) he gave not place by subjection, no not for an houre Gal. 2. 4. 5. But even Peter also. When he saw that he did not foreign, walke with a right and even foot, but inclined to an vnwarrantable separation, tending to a dangerous schisme in the Church, now he with stood him to the face, appeared openly against him Gal. 2. 11. 14. And the like the Ministers of Christ not onelyonly may, but ought to doe; When they see the fundamentall truthes of God undermined, or the peace and unitie of the Church indangered, in these cases they not onelyonly may, but ought to speake, who ever it be that appeares against them. But in the meane time let them not affect such clashing; nor yet undertake them unless it be in matters of great and weightie concernment.

Secondly.Not pragmaticall Busibodies. Let them take heede of being Pragmaticall, Busy-bodies. As of running into p. 34other Professions, which are Eccentricall to their owne, of no affinitie with their Ministeriall function, so of intermedling in other mens charges. This is that which Saint Peter forbids all Christians. Let none of you suffer as an evill doer, or as a Busy-bodie. 1 Pet. 4. 15. foreign, the word properly Signifieth, a Bishop in another mans Diocess. Such should not private Christians be. Such let not Ministers be. Being Bishops let them keepe within their owne Diocesses, even as the Stars do within their own Orbs and Spheres.

Thirdly,Vigilant over their flocks. In reference to their Flocks. Let them be vigilant, watchful. Hereof also (as Lapide noteth it) the Stars are Emblems, which watch over the earth in the night season. And so vigilant should Gospel-Ministers be over their Flocks. Even as the story tels us of those shepheards, to whom the Angel appeared with those joyful tidings, Luke 2. 8. They were keeping watch over their flocks by night. And such watchmen should these spiritual shepheards be. To this end are they set over their flocks by God, that they should watch over them. Son of man, I have made thee a watchman unto the house of Israel, (saith the Lord to his Prophet Ezekiel) Ezek. 3. 17. To watch over their souls. Obey them that have the rule over you (saith the Apostle) for they watch for your souls, Heb. 13. 17. And this let them do. That is the word which Saint Paul giveth to the Elders of Ephesus, Acts 20, 31. Watch. And p. 35this let all the Ministers of Christ do. And that as at all times, so specially in the night, in times of danger, when Foxes, & Wolves, false Teachers, Heretical seducers walk abroad, seeking to make a prey of the flock. Such was that time when Paul gave that watch-word to those Elders, as we may learn from the verses foregoing, (verse 29, 30.) I know this saith he) that after my departure grievous wolves (wolves in sheeps-cloathing, false teachers) shall enter in among you not sparing the flock. Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking pervese things (broaching and venting false and Heretical doctrine) to draw away Disciples after them. Therefore Watch. Ministers should be vigilant at all times, knowing that that Roaring Lion is still walking about. But when such Wolves and Foxes, subtile and dangerous Seducers are abroad, they had need then to look out sharp, as the STARS (heavens sentinels) do in the dark of the night.

But I fear I have wearied your attentions with what, (I confess) doth immediately concern but a few of this present Audience. You have have heard what ones the Ministers of Christ ought to be.

But shall we now give way to an Enquiry?A modest enquiry touching the Ministers of the Church of England. Are the Ministers and Teachers in this our Church, (I mean the Church of England) at this day such? Such Stars? Blessed be God such there are, and that not a few. But how many far otherwise. Such as go for Stars, being p. 36set in the firmament of the Church,Some not deserving the name of Stars. but are unworthy of that name; having little light, or if they have, yet hiding it; less zeal; no purity, but are rather like those spots in the Moon, no small blemish in the Churches face. I might go on; But I have no pleasure in discovering of what I have here no opportunity to rectifie.

Besides these how many Meteors? Many Meteors Comets.such as would be taken for Stars, but are nothing less in truth. Comets they are.

11. Being (first) not set in the firmament of the Church. ascending of themselves,Intruders upon the Office, Exhalations. But meer Exhalations, ascending of themselves, and drawn up by some sinister respects of Honour or Profit, or the like, and fed with those earthly vapours. I mean men taking this office upon themselves, not being called thereunto by God, not being set apart to the work, whether Actually or yet Intentionally.

22. Blazing-stars. Such were the false Apostles in Saint Pauls time;Blazing Stars. and such there are too many in ours. Men who make a great glare, a great shew, and (as Gamaliel once said of Theudas, Acts 5. 36.) they boast themselves to be some body, no ordinary Teachers. And thereupon they hold forth new and strange lights, new and strange doctrines, such as the world cannot but stand amazed at the beholding, hearing of; as much as in them lieth setting the Church on fire therewith. By which means it cometh to pass, that the truly Orthodox Ministers p. 37with their old light, their old truths, comes to be the less regarded, and by some slighted. Even as it is when there is a blazing-star flaming in the heavens, the world stands at gaze at that, all tcome out of their doors to look upon that, whilest the true Stars in the mean time are little passed by without any observation.

3. To these add (in the third place) Falling-stars. 3Such are Comets, Falling-Stars.they shine for a time, and that it may be very brightly, out-shining all the stars about them, but in a little time, having spent their stock of vapour, they fall down to the earth from whence they came, and thereby are discovered to be what they were, not stars but Comets, Quae cecidit, stella non fuit, Cometa fuit. And such stars how many have we seen of late times? falling-stars. Time was when they shone, and that brightly, like Lucifers, sons of the morning, but now how are they fallen from heaven (as the Prophet saith of the Babylonion Monarch and Empire, Isaiah 14. 13)? Fallen from their Principles. Such a Star we read of Revel. 9. 1. I saw a star fallen from heaven (saith Saint Iohn) which some understand of some eminent Minister of the Church, who fell from the true Religion of God and turned Apostate. And elsewhere he tels us of the Stars of heaven falling to the earth, Revel. 6. 13. Ministers falling from the truth into Errours. And such stars how many have we seen or heard of? Men sometime of special note in the Church, shining like Stars in the firmament thereof. p. 38But now are they fallen from heaven to earth, (I had almost said, to Hell, but I would be as charitable as I may, hoping, however desiring, that God would give them repentance unto salvation, that they remembring from whence they are fallen, may repent and do their first works (as the spirit counsels the Angel of the Church of Ephesus Revel. 2. 5.) fallen from the truth of God into dangerous, desperate, damnable Errours and Heresies, some of them even denying the Lord that bought them (as Saint Peter foretelleth it of some, 2 Pet. 2. 1. Besides these, how many fallen from their purity, and how many from their zeal, being with the Laodicean Angel, grown remiss, Luke-warme; having lost their first love, (as the spirit chargeth it upon the Angel of the Church of Ephesus, Rev. 2. 4.)

4. To these I might yet add many more.Bitter stars. Among other I take notice of one star, which being fallen from heaven, was a bitter star. Of this you read Rev. 8. 10. 11. There fel a great Star from heaven, and his name was called Wormewood, Of whome that is there meant, I shall not now stand to enquire, which if I should, I should finde it verie mysterious. Verely I wish there were but one such a star to be found in this our Horizon. But alass how many of this kind, such as being fallen from their principles, do now justly deserve that name to be called Wormwood, (as it is for the most part with Apostates.) having their spirits imbittered against the truthes of God, p. 39and the wayes of God, and the servants of God, (sometimes their fellow Brethren) against whome they shoote their Arrowes, even bitter words (as David saith his Enemies did against him. Psal. 64. 3.) upon all occasions letting flye bitter Invectives against them. And others there are, who though they be not so fallen, but may be looked upon as stars still, yet they have too much of this Wormwood in them, too much of that foreign, (which the Apostle speaketh of Iames. 3. 14. Bitter Zeale. Which upon all occasions they are readie to express against their Brethren who differ from them, though it be but in matters of lesser concernment. Now surely this doth not favour of a truly Ministeriall spirit, which should be (as I have showne) a spirit of gentleness and meekness. Not a bitter spirit: But I will not wearie you and my selfe in following of this Chase any further. I shall rather now come to that which may be more usefull unto you.

And that shall be,Vse 2. to shew you what your duty is in reference to these starres, Application to the People, who ought,in reference to the true Ministers of Jesus Christ. Which take in three or foure particulars.

1. Take notice of them as set over you by God. 1So are the Stars, To take notice of their Ministers as set over them by God.and so are these Stars, both set over you by the same hand. And that both to a like end, viz. to overlook you, and to guide you. To these ends are the Stars set over this inferiour world; as Ouerseers, and Guides, to overlooke it, and Governe it, which in some sense they p. 40do, Astra regunt homines—. And to a like end are the Ministers of God set over the Church, as Overseers, as Guides. Overseers. so Saint Paul calleth them, Act. 20. 28. Take heed unto the flock, whereof the Holy ghost hath made you Overseers, foreign; Bishops, which properly signifieth, as there (but how properly I will not say) it is rendered, Supervisors, Overs…ers. Guides. So the Authour to the Hebrews stiles them. Heb. 13. 7. 17. Where speaking, not of Magistrates, but of Minister, (as is playn enough to those that will not festucam quaerere, seeke straws to put out their owne eyes with all) he calleth them foreign, Rulers, Guids, [Such as have the rule over you.] Such the Ministers of Christ are, thus set over you by God; and doe you know them as such. That is Pauls request to his Thessalonians 1 Thes. 5. 12. We beseech you, brethren, to know them that labour among you, and are ouer you in the Lord.] foreign, set over you. Ministers being set over their flocks in the Lord, by God himselfe, to deale in those things which concerne his worship and service, let them be known and acknowledged for such. This take you notice of.

2. And (secondly) thus taking notice of them,Bless God for them if able and faithfull. bless God for them. This we have all cause to doe for the Stars. Which are not onelyonly an Ornament to the heavens, but verie beneficiall to the Earth. And this do you for the Ministers of God, which are not onelyonly an Ornament to the Church, but verie beneficiall to your souls. p. 41Many are the Benefits which men receive from the stars, which they take little notice of. And many are the benefits which you do, or (if you be not wanting to your selves) may receive from the Ministers of Christ. And therefore bless that God who hath set them over you. These are the Gifts which Jesus Christ upon his Ascension is said to have given. He gaue gifts to men (saith the Apostle) viz. Some Apostles, and some Prophets, and some Evangelists, and some Pastours and Teachers Eph. 4. 8. 11. And a greater (next to himselfe) he never gave unto his Church. So looke you upon it, blessing God for this Gift. Bless him for the office of Ministers. And, if they be in measure able and faithfull, burning and shining Lights, Stars, bless him for their Persons. And with all, bless him for their Libertie; that these Stars are not so clouded, but that yet they may shine forth. It was a sad time with the Marriners in Pauls voyage to Rome, when they could not see so much as a Star for many nights together, Act. 27. 20. And it is a sad time with the Church (as in time of Persecution it sometimes fals out) when these stars appeare not. Such stormes there have beene. But blessed be he who holdeth these Stars in his right hand, that it is not so with this Church at this day. Astorme it hath felt, and that sad one, but blessed be God, these Stars yet shine forth.

3. Which that they may still do,Praying for their Lives and Liberties. be you earnest with God on their behalfe. It is a merciemercy p. 42which the Lord maketh promise of to his people, Isaiah 30. 20. Though the Lord give you the bread of Adversity, and the water of Affliction, yet shall not thy Teachers be removed into corners any more, but thine eyes shall see thy Teachers. And that this promise may be made good unto you, and to your Brethren in this Nation, be you earnest with God in this behalf. This Paul begs from his Colossians on his own behalf, Col. 4. 3. And this let me beg from you, as in my own and fellow-labourers here, so in the behalf of all the Ministers of Christ in this Nation, that God would open (keep open) unto them a door of utterance, to speak the mysterie of Christ.

Fourthly.Giving respect to their Office and Persons. Thus praying for them, give unto them those respects, which upon the account of their office is due unto them. Whatever their persons be, yet their office is venerable. Stars are no despicable creatures. And for their office sake; have also a respect to their persons; Giving unto them that double honour, which upon the account of a double work, their Teaching and Ruling, the Apostle tells you is due unto them, 1 Tim. 5. 17. This yield you unto those who desire and endeavour to be found faithful in this Ministration. This Paul begs from his Thessalonians, and in them from you, 1 Thes. 5. 12. We beseech you, know them that labour among you, and are over you in the Lord, and to esteem them very highly in love for their works sake.

p. 43Fifthly and lastly,Making use of their Light, having them thus in respect, now shew this respect, as in other ways, so specially by making that use of them for which God hath set them up. Making use of their light. First,Of Doctrine. Their light of Doctrine. Not 1playing by it, as children sometimes do by their Candle, till they are fain to go darklings to bed. And the like let them make account of, who shall so play by this light, not regarding, not making use of it, whilest it is held forth unto them, let them make account to go to bed in the dark, to die without comfort. Neither (secondly) think it enough to gaze upon it, to let this light into the eye of the understanding. I mean content not your selves with a meer speculative knowledg. Nor yet (thirdly) think it enough to be a little affected with it. So was Herod with looking on that burning and shining light, hearing Iohns Doctrine. He observed him (saith the Text) and when he heard him, he heard him gladly, Mark 6. 20. And the like did many of the Iews. They were willing to rejoyce in his light for a season (as our Saviour tels them) Iohn 5. 35. But do you walk by this light. Such use men make of the Stars in the night season, they walk by the light of them. And such use make you of the light of these stars. While you are here in the night of this world, walk by the light of their Doctrine. As ye have received Christ Iesus the Lord, so walk ye in him (saith Paul to his Colossians, chap. 2. 6.)

p. 442. And as by their Doctrine, Their Example.so also by their Example. Such use Seamen make of some of the Stars, they stear their course by them. And such use make you of the Examples of the faithful Ministers of Christ, whose lives are truly exemplary. Stear your course by them, follow them. This Paul calleth for from his Corinthians, 1 Cor. 4. 16. Wherefore I beseech you be ye followers of me. And the like from his Philippians. Brethren be ye followers together of me (foreign, joynt imitators) and mark them which so walk as you have us for an Example, Phil. 3. 7. And thus should Christians be of their Ministers. Remember them which have the rule over you (saith the Apostle to his Hebrews, chap. 13. 7.) who have spoken to you the word of God, whose faith follow (the faith which they preached and professed) considering the end of their conversation; viz. that you may imitate them.

OnelyOnly here remember that Limitation, Following them as they follow Christ.which the same Apostle elsewhere explaining himself holdeth forth. 1 Cor. 11. 1. Be ye followers of me as I am of Christ. Thus do fixed stars move, all following the motion of the primum mobile; the first mover. And thus should the Ministers of Christ follow him, making him their Example. I have given you an example: saith our Saviour to his Apostles) that ye should do as I have done unto you, John 13. 15. And so far as they follow him, let their Example be followed by those committed to their charge. And thus have p. 45I done with the former of these particulars here held forth in the Text, which informs us, that Gospel Ministers are Stars. Come we now to the second.

Obser. 2. Gospel Ministers are in the right hand of Iesus Christ. Gospell Ministers in the right hand of Iesus Christ.So were these seven Stars, the Angels of the seven Churches, they were in the right hand of this son of Man; in the hand of Iesus Christ. And so are all other Ministers of the Gospel. Where let our enquiry again be concerning the Mystery, what was hereby signified. To which take the Resolution in three or four particulars.The Mysterie explained.

First, Hereby we may conceive to be intimated that Interest and Propertie which the Lord Iesus hath in the Ministers of the Gospell.Christs properties and interest in his Ministers. They are his Ministers. Though Ministers to the Church, yet not properly of the Church. But the Ministers of Christ. Let a man so account of us as of the Ministers of Christ (saith the Apostle 1, Cor. 4. 1.) And so they may be called upon a threefold Account. In as much as they have their Office, Mission, Commission, all from him from his hand.

First,Their Office is from him. Their Office is from him; their Ministeriall function. Which was given by Christ unto his Church When he ascended upon high (saith the Apostle speaking of Christ Ephe. 11. 8.) he led Captivitie Captive, and he gave gifts unto men. Even as Kings somtimes upon the day of their Coronation and solemn installment use to scatter their donaria, giving gifts unto their Subjects; p. 46Even thus the Lord Iesus upon this day of his Coronation, entring upon his Kingdom, he gave gifts unto his Church. But what Gifts? why, among other a Gospell Ministerie. So the 11. verse there informs us. He gave some Apostles, and some Prophets, and some Evangelists and some Pastours and Teachers. All Ministers offices, the three former Extraordinarie and temporarie, to continue but for a time, during the Infancie of the Church; the two latter (if they be two) Ordinarie and perpetuall, to continue to the end of the world. Thus did the Church receive the Ministeriall function as a Gift from the hand of Jesus Christ.

And that from his Right hand. There were these Stars, Right hand Blessings speciall blessings.in the Right hand of this Son of man▪ Now Right hand blessings are the twice blessings. The wise man speaking of the Gifts and blessings which Wisdome as a Queene bestoweth upon her servants and followers, saith, Length of days is in her right hand, and in her left hand riches and honour, Prov. 3. 16. Length of days, a long life, being of more value then riches or honour, is placed in wisdomes right hand. And such is this gift which Christ hath given to his Church, the Gospell Ministery, a right hand gift, a choice blessing.

And so it may well be looked upon,Gospell Ministerie a great Blessing to the Church. if we doe but consider the end, wherefore it was given, and for which it serveth; which the Apostle also there sets down in the following verse, Eph. 4. 12. He gave some Apostles &c. But wherefore? p. 47For the perfecting of the Saints, for the work of the Ministerie, for the edifying of the Bodie of Christ] This is the proper worke of the Ministerie, even the compleating and perfecting of the Saints, and edifying of the Bodie, the Mysticall bodie of Christ, building up of the Church in Knowledg, faith, and Holyness, untill it be made a compleat and perfect Bodie, perfect both with perfection of Parts and Degrees, as it there followeth verse. 13. Till we all come in the vnitie of the faith of the Son of God, unto a perfect man &c. Now considering this worke, and the high import of it, well may this be looked upon as no common, no ordinarie Gift, that Christ should give unto his Church those who may be instrumentall in this service. The Gospell Ministerie is a right-hand-blessing. To pass on.

2. In the second place.Their Mission from him. Gospell Ministers, as they have their function from Christ, so also their Mission. As their Office is instituted and appointed by him, so their Persons are designed and sent by him for the executing of this Office. So were his Apostles. As my father hath sent me, even so send I you, (saith he to them) Ioh. 20. 21. Thence was it that they were called Apostles, foreign, Messengers persons sent by Christ as Extraordinarie Embassadours. Such were the twelue. And such was Paul, Am I not an Apostle? 1 Cor. 9. 1. Being sent by Christ. Christ sent me, (saith he) not to Baptize, but to preach the Gospell. 1 Cor. 1. 17. Understand it Compartively, not so much to intend the one, as the p. 48other, cheifly to apply himselfe to that which he looked at as the principall part of the Ministerial service, to preach the Gospel. And thus are other Ordinarie Ministers sent. Though not in such an immediate way as they were, yet sent by Christ; as by his Ordinance, so by his speciall Providence. He is that Lord of the harvest, which sendeth forth Labourers into his Harvest, Ministers into his Church. Mat. 9. last. These are of Christs sending, have their Mission from him.

Thirdly,Their Commission from him. And as their Mission, so their Commission. Hence tearmed his Ambassadours. Now then we are Ambassadours for Christ (saith the Apostle, speaking of himselfe, and other Gospell Ministers) 2 Cor. 5. 20. And elswhere he calleth himselfe an Ambassadour in bonds, Eph. 6. 20. Ambassadours are speciall Messengers sent with Commission from their Masters to act in their names. And such Messengers are the Ministers of Jesus Christ, they are sent by him with a Commission, with Authoritie from him to act in his name. As though God did beseech you by us, we pray you in Christs stead be ye reconciled unto God (so it there followeth. 2 Cor. 5. 20.) foreign, Christi nomine, in the name of Christ, as being deputed and authorized by him. So are all true Gospell Ministers; being sent by Christ, they are also impowred by him; having the Keys put into their hands. Even as Eliakim who was made High-Steward of the Royall family, is said to have the Key of the house of David laid p. 49upon his shoulder. Isaiah 22. 22. Importing that power and authoritie which should be given to him for the executing of his Office. Even so the Ministers of Christ are said to have the Keyes put into their hands: I give unto thee the Keyes of the Kingdome of heaven, (saith our Saviour to Peter) Matth. 16. 19. that is, a Ministerial power and authoritie. And this he gave not onelyonly to him (as Romanists would have it) but to other his Apostles and Disciples, and in them to their Successours, even to all the Ministers of the Gospel (as I touched before:) Into whose hands he hath put a double Key. The Key of Doctrine and discipline of Doctrine, giving them not onelyonly leave, or allowance, but power to preach the Gospel, Go teach all Nations, Matth. 28. 19. Go preach the Gospel to every creature, Mark 16. 15. And that (in measure) as himself is said to have done, Matthew 7. last, with Authoritie. These things speak, and exhort, and rebuke with all Authoritie, (saith Paul to Titus. Tit. 2. last. And as the Key of Doctrine (which is elsewhere called the Key of Knowledge, Luke 11. 52. because it openeth the door, and letteth men into the saving knowledge of God in Christ) so of Discipline and Government. Jesus Christ having given a Ministerial power to them, partly by the Application of that Doctrine to the consciences of men, and partly by the censures of the Church, as it were to open and shut the Kingdome of Heaven, the Kingdome of Grace and Glorie, to open it to penitent believers, to shut it against p. 50obstinate sinners. Whatsover ye bind on earth, &c. Whose sins ye remit, &c.

Thus have Gospel Ministers their Office from Christ, their persons also being sent by him, with Authoritie from him. And upon this account are these stars here placed in the hand of this Son of Man, to intimate the interest and propertie that Iesus Christ hath in the Ministers of the Churches; who are his Ministers. Here is a first thing hereby signified; Pass we to a second.

Secondly,Gospel Ministers ordered and governed by Iesus Christ. As they are Ministers, his Officers, so they are ordered and governed by him. And upon this account again they may be said to be in his hand, in as much as they are disposed of, and directed by him: As are Ambassadours by their Masters that send them, together with their Commission they receive particular directions and instructions, both whither they are to go, and what they are to say and do. Even so it is with the Ministers of Christ, being sent by him, they are also directed by him. As whither to go, so were the Apostles, whose Commission was first restrained to one particular Nation, viz. to the Jewes; Go not into the way of the Gentiles, Matth. 10. 15. afterwards inlarged, Goe teach all Nations, Matth. 28. 19. And so was S. Paul, sent to the Gentiles by Christ who appeared to him, Acts 26. 18. And so are ordinarie Ministers; though not in so immediate a way, yet still they are directed by Christ, viz. by his special Providence, whither to goe, where they are to be imployed. It is this hand that fixeth these Stars in p. 51their several Orbes, that placeth Ministers in their particular charges; where also he continues them during his good pleasure; disposing of them both for life and libertie as he seeth fitting. So also, what it is that they are to speak in his Name. To which end he as it were putteth his word into their mouths. So the Lord is said to have done into that fals Prophet Balams, Numb. 23. 16. The Lord met Balaam and put a word in his mouth: And so he did in the mouths of his true Prophets; Behold I have put my word into thy mouth, (saith the Lord to the Prophet Ieremy, Jer. 1. 9.) And the like doth the Lord Jesus into the mouthes of his Ministers, he putteth his word into their mouthes, sending them to preach, he ordereth them what they are to preach; Goe preach the Gospel. Thus he giveth them directions and instructions from his Word, the Scriptures, whereby the Man of God cometh to be perfect, (as the Apostle telleth Timothie,) 2 Tim. 3. last.

And with his word he giveth them his Spirit. This is that which our Saviour maketh promise to his Apostles and Disciples, John 14. 16. 17. I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, even the Spirit of Truth, which Spirit he afterwards tells them should guide them into all Truth, chap. 16. 13. And this Spirit Christ giveth in measure to all their Successours the true and faithfull Ministers of the Gospel, whereby their Heads and Hearts come to be enlightned with those saving and usefull truths, p. 52which they are to hold forth uuto others. God hath shined into our hearts (saith the Apostle in that place forenamed.) Thus are they in their ministerial work and service disposed of, ordered, governed by Christ. And upon this account again may be said to be in his hand.

3Thirdly, They are in his hand, his right hand, being powerfully supported and upheld,Supported and maintained by him. defended and maintained by him. In this sense all the Saints of God are said to be in his hand. All his Saints are in thy hand (saith Moses) Deut. 23. 3. Gods Saints in the hand of Jesus Christ, under his custody and protection. But so are his Ministers after a special manner. They are in his right hand, under his powerful and gracious protection and support. So the Psalmist often useth this phrase. Thy right hand upholdeth me, Psal. 18. 35. v. 63. 8. O thou that savest by thy right hand them that put their trust i… thee, Psal. 17 7. The right hand is a member strong and active, whereby a man sheweth, and putteth forth the whole strength of his body. And thence is it that Gods power manifested in the protection or deliverance of his people is called the strength of his right hand. The Lord saveth his anointed with the saving strength of his right hand (saith the Church speaking of David her king) Psal. 20. 6. And such is the salvation which the Lord Christ sheweth unto his servants, his faithful Ministers. First, maintaining their office: which he will do in despite of all opposition to the end of the world. I am p. 53with you alwaies to the end of the world. And then, so far as he seeth it expedient, defending their persons continuing their lives and liberties. Thus was this Son of man with those stars, the Ministers of the Asian Churches. He held them in his right hand, protectiug them, keeping them either from or in the hour of Temptation. That is the promise which he maketh to the Philadelphian Angel, Revel. 3. 10. I will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world. Such was the state of the Church then under the reign of that cruel Tyrant the Emperour Domitian, it lay under a general persecution. yet the Lord Iesus promiseth to the Church, and in particular to the Ministers thereof an exemption and immunitie. And thus doth Iesus Christ hide his Ministers sometimes as it were in the hollow, or shadow of his hand. Thus was he himself hid by his Father as the Prophet Esay saith of him, Isai. 49. 21. In (or with) the shadow of his hand hath he hid me. So protecting him against all the might and malice of his capital enemies, that they could not lay hold upon him, or do ought unto him, before the time that God fore-designed was come, as St. John observes it, Joh. 7. 30. & 8. 20. Thus did his Father still uphold him in the work of his Ministery in despite of all opposition. Behold my servant whom I uphold (it is spoken of Christ) Isai. 42. 1. And thus is Jesus Christ pleased sometimes to uphold his Ministers; being with them as he was with those three worthies in the p. 54midst of the fiery furnace, keeping them from persecution in the midst of it, so as whilest they see or hear of it, yet they feel not of it. Or if they do, yet even then standing by them, supporting, strengthning, delivering them. So was he with his servant Paul. At his first appearing before Nero (as he tels Timothy, 2 Tim. 4. 16, 17.) No man stood by me, but all forsook me, yet notwithstanding (saith he) the Lord stood by me, and strengthened me, and I was delivered out of the mouth of the Lyon. Thus did his Lord and Master then stand by him, holding him in his right hand, preserving and delivering him from the hand of that cruel tyrant, still continuing both his life and libertie. And the like hath he done for other of his servants. This is that the Lord telleth his servant Ieremy, chap. 1. vers. 18, 19. Behold I have made thee this day, a defenced City, and an iron pillar, and brazen walls against the whole land, against Kings, Princes, Priests, People. And they shall fight against thee, but they shall not prevail against thee, for I am with the… (saith the Lord) to deliver thee. And the like may all the faithful Ministers of Christ comfortably assure themselves of, that so long a… their Lord and Master hath any work for them to do, he both can, and will uphold them; he hath them in his right hand.

4Fourthly and lastly,The efficacy and successe of their labours is from him. he hath them in his right hand, giving Influence to these stars, giving efficacy and successe to the labours of his Ministers making them effectual for those ends, for which p. 55they are designed. This is that which the Lord promiseth to the Philadelphian Angel, Rev. 3. 8. Behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man shall shut it. Though your adversaries at that time were many, and those both potent and violent, yet they should not be able to hinder the passage of the Gospel, but the Ministers of the Church should have both liberty, and great successe in their Ministry. This is also the work of Christ, to set open such a door (as Paul saith was opened to him at Ephesus, 1 Cor. 16. 9.) a great and effectual door. This is the hand (as it is said in that text forecited, Act. 11. 21) The hand of the Lord was with them that preached the Gospel, and a great number beleeved, and turned unto the Lord. To him it is the Apostle ascribes the efficacy and successe of all the Ministerial labours of himself or others, 1 Cor. 3. 5. Who then is Paul (saith he) or who is Apollos, but Ministers by whom ye beleeved, even as the Lord gave to eueryevery man. As he was pleased first to dispence his gifts, and then give successe to the endeavours of his servants; who are but as Instruments in his hand: foreign, (as he saith of servants) Reasonable instruments; and so may use their endeavours, but in the mean time the successe and efficacy thereof dependeth all upon the hand that holdeth them. So the Apostle goeth on. I have pla…ed, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase, v. 6. Paul had laid the foundation, converting them from loganisme to christianitie; and Apollos, and others had built p. 56upon that foundation, watering what he had planted, but is was God that gave the blessing to both their endeavours. Thus are Ministers (as I said) no other but instruments in the hand of Christ: the efficacy of their ministerie depending wholly upon his Cooperation. Not able to do any thing of themselves. But through the hand of Christ assisting of them they are made instrumental for great services. So are weak instruments sometimes in the haud of a skilful Artificer; great and curious peeces are wrought by them. And even so are the Ministers of Christ, being acted by his hand, though weak and impotent of themselves, yet their ministerie is made powerful for the effecting of great things. Even their foolishnesse of preaching (as the Apostle calls it) is now made the power of God to the salvation of them that beleeve

And thus you see the mysterie also of this Representation.Application. Which let it now be useful as the former was; first to Ministers, then to people.

1For the former, Let them (in that place) Remember whose Ministers they are. To Ministers, Let them remember whose Ministers they are.From whom it is that they have received their office their power, their omssion, their commission. Even from Jesus Christ; in whose hand they are to be disposed of by him according to his good will and pleasure. He it is that is their Lord, they his servants: instruments in his hand. And being so,

2In the second place, let them approve themselves unto him, in doing his will his work. Even p. 57as Christ himself did the will and works of his Father.Approve themselves unto Jesus Christ. I came down from heaven not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me. Joh. 6. 38. I must work the works of him that sent me, Joh. 9. 4.During his will and work. Even so let the Ministers of Christ do, being sent by him, let them not do their own wills, their own works, but the will and works of him that sent them. Following those directions and instructions, which they receive from him, not speaking or acting of their own heads. Of my self I can do nothing, as I hear I judge (saith Christ to the Jews) Ioh. 5. 30. And again, v. 19. The Son can do nothing of himself, but what he seeth the Father do. Being sent by his Father, he followed his instructions, his directions, both in Dostrine and Practise. And so let his Ministers do, renouncing their own judgements and wills, let them attend his directions.

In all seeking his Glory, not their own, so did their Lord and Master.Seeking his glory. I seek not mine own glory (saith he) Ioh. 8. 50. Whose then? why the glory of his Father, who had sent him. I have glorified thee on earth, Joh. 17. 4. And so let all the Ministers of Christ, in their whole Ministration, let them not seek themselves, but him. It is a foul imputation which the Apostle chargeth upon most of the Ministers of his time, that they were self seekers. All seek their own things, not the things which were Iesus Christs, Phil. 2. 21. All, that is the greatst part preferred their own profit and honour, before the glory of their p. 58Lord and Master. Let is not be so with us. Hereby shall the ministers of Christ approve and evidence themselves to be his Ministers indeed, viz. by doing his work with an eye to him, seeking his glory. He that seeketh his glory that sent him, the same is true, Joh. 7. 18.

3Thirdly, Thus approving themselves unto Christ,Commit themselves to him. let them then Commit themselves unto him: commending themselves into this hand of his. So did their Master dying, he commended his Spirit into his Fathers hand. Into thy hand I commend my Spirit, Luk. 23. 46 And so let his servants do both living and dying, commend themselves, their lives, their liberties, their labours, their all, into the hand of this their Lord and Master: by faith putting themselves into the hollow of that hand, and lying down under the shadow of it. Commit thy way unto the Lord (saith David unto all) Psal. 37. 5. And this let the Ministers of Christ do in a special manner.

4Fourthly, And thus committing themselves to him,Submit unto him. let them also submit unto him. Taking notice that they are in his hand, let them yeeld up themselves unto him, to be disposed of by him according to his good will and pleasure. So did the blessed Apostle St. Paul. So long as his Lord and Master Christ might be glorified in him and by him, he did not much weigh in what way it was, whether by life or by death, (as he tells his Philippians) Phil. 1. 20. And let their be the like minde in all the Ministers of Jesus p. 59Christ. In all things let them comply with his mind and will, Being willing to go whether he calls or sends them: like the Centurions souldiers and servants, Mat. 8. 9. I say to one go, and he goeth, and to another come, and he cometh, &c. And to do what he will have them. Peter though he had fished all night and caught nothing, yet neverthelesse, at his Masters command he will let down the net, Luk. 5. 5. And as doing, so suffering for him. I am ready not onelyonly to be bound but also to die at Ierusalem, for the name of the Lord Iesus (saith Paul to the Disciples) Act. 21. 13.

And thus committing and submitting themselves to him, let them now incourage themselves 5in him. Encourage themselves in him.So did David in that great distresse of his, when he knew not what to do, he then Encouraged himself in the Lord his God, 1 Sam. 30. 6. And this let all the faithful Ministers of Jesus Christ do, Remembring that they are in his hand, yea in his right hand; which may serve as a grand Encouragement, to bear up their hearts and spirits.

First, Against the contempt of the world, that 6mean estimation which the men of this world have of them, and of their calling.Against the contempt of the world. Let the world judge and think, and speak of them as it will. It is not this judgement which they are much to regard; with me (saith the Apostle) It is a very small thing to be judged of you, or of mans judgement, 1 Cor. 4. 3. Whose judgement then was it that he regarded? Why, the judgement of his p. 60Lord and Master Christ; so it followeth in the next verse, He that judgeth me, is the Lord. What then, though the world have a low, a meane base estimation of the Persons and calling of the Ministers of Christ? So it had of Paul, and the rest of the Apostles, as he setteth it forth in the sequel of that Chapter; We are made a spectacle unto the world, and unto Angels, and unto Men; verse 9. We are made the filth of the world, and are the off-scouring of all things, v 13. foreign, the very sweepage and dross, the off all and shreds of the world. Such a mean and base esteem had many in those times of Paul and his Collegues, the blessed Apostles, and other Primitive Ministers. And it is but too apparent, that such and no better is the esteem which many even among our selves have of them at this day; whose tongues and pens speak what their thoughts are. But let not this be regarded by the faithfull Mininisters of Christ. It is enough that their Lord and Master Christ thinks otherwise of them. Let the world (as it doth) set them upon the left hand; He hath taken them into his right hand, and there he holdeth them; thereby declaring both how near and dear they are to him; near in Relation, dear in Affection; Euen as the Signet upon his right hand, (as the Lord saith of Eliakim, Ier. 22. 24.) or as the men of his right hand; (as the Psalmist saith of David, Psalm. 80. 17.) his Benjamins, the sons of his right hand, (as that word signiefith.)

p. 61And secondly, as against the contempt, so 2against the Opposition which they meet withall,Against Opposition in and from the world. in and from the world, which oft time is not little. Paul met with affronts more then a few: Being to preach to the Deputie Sergius Paulus, Elimas the Sorcerer withstood him, Acts 13. 8. And elsewhere he tells us of his fighting with beasts at Ephesus, 1 Cor. 15. 32. which some, and not a few, understand of bruitish, bestiall, savage and cruel bloody minded adversaries. And such he sometimes conflicted with, as appeareth from that request of his, which he maketh to his Thessalonians; 2 Thes. 3. 2. Where he desireth them to pray for him, that (among other things) he might be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men.

And such conflicts the rest of the Apostles had frequent experience of; finding that to be true, which their Lord and Master had foretold them, Matth. 10. that they were sent forth as sheep among Wolves, verse 16. and that they should be hated of all men for his Names sake, verse 22. because they were his servants, his Ministers, imployed in his service. And what if the Ministers of Christ shall meet with the like at this day? Which at not a few hands they already doe: There being many who are desperately ingaged, not onelyonly against their Persons, but against their Profession, their Calling, crying that down as useless and unnecessarie, nay destructive and pernicious; seeking by all wayes they can to extirpate and root it out. But let not all this discourage p. 62the faithfull Ministers of Jesus Christ; knowing that they are in his hand, not in the hand of man. If so there were just cause to fear their standing. But in the hand of Iesus Christ; and that in his Right hand, which is both a gracious and a powerfull, a sure and safe Custodie and Protection. And who is it then that shall take them out of his hand? Neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand (saith our Saviour concerning his sheep, John 18. 20.) And if not the sheep, surely then not the shepherds; He that hath such a vigilant eye over the one; will not be regardlesse of the other. Pan curatoves oviumque Magistros. Yea then let men and devils do their worst, yet let not them fear. That was Davids resolution, which he took up upon this very ground; Psalme 56. 6, 4. In God have I put my trust, I will not fear what flesh can doe unto me. Such is the Arme of man, how long, how strong, how potent soever it be, yet it is but an Arm of flesh (as the Prophet tells it, Jer. 17. 5.) Flesh, not Spirit, (as the Prophet Isaiah saith of the Egyptian horses, Isaiah 31. 3.) a weak Arme. But such is not this hand, the right hand of Iesus Christ. This is a powerfull, a mightie hand: Thou hast a mightie Arme, strong is thy hand, and high is thy right hand (saith the Psalmist) Psalme 89. 13. Such is the hand of this Sonne of Man, whom the Prophet describing calleth El Gibbor, the mightie God, Isai. 9. 6. His hand, his right hand is a mightie hand. And therefore let not those his Ministers, whose desire is to be found faithfull p. 63in their ministration, in any thing fear their adversaries.

I might go on putting them in mind,Looking for success unto Jesus Christ. whither it is that they are to look for successe in their Ministery. Even to that hand which sendeth them forth, Vna eademque manus, The same hand that giveth gifts to them, and them to the Church, must give successe to their labours. these stars receive their influence from this hand wherein they are.

Withall,Going on cheerfully and courageously in their work. I might excite them to go on cheerfully and couragiously in that work which their Lord and Master sets them about, being assured that his hand shall be with them. This is the encouragement and incitement which the Lord giveth unto his servant Ioshua, Josh. 1. As I was with Moses, so will I be with thee; I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee, be strong and of a good courage, vers. 5, 6. And again, vers. 9. Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed, for the Lord thy God is with thee, &c. And in a like way that good King Iehoshaphat bespeaks the Iudges of Iudah, Chron. 19. last. Deal couragiously, and the Lord shall be with the good. And let the like be said to all the Ministers of Christ in this Nation. Let them be couragious, being assured the hand of the Lord, their Lord and Master will be with them,Take heed of provoking him, in whose hands they are. I will be with you alwaies to the end of the world.

OnelyOnly let them take heed of provoking him to displeasure against them, which if they shall p. 64dare to do, then let them know they are in his hand to correct and punish them. As Aoraham said unto his wife Sarah concerning her servant Hagar, Behold thy maid is in thy hand to do to her as it pleaseth thee, Gen. 16. 6. So let these servants of Christ know, that they are in his hand, to do to them as it pleaseth him. And therefore let them take heed of offending, of displeasing him; As by any sinful impietie in their conversation, (this hand is too pure to hold any impure thing in it) so by remisnesse and negligence in their calling, or by neutrality and indifferencie not appearing, not standing for Christ as they ought to do. He that threatens the Laodicean Angel that for his lukewarmnesse, his Neutralitie and indifferency in the businesse of Religion, neither appearing against it, nor much for it, neither being a professed enemy; nor yet by a zealous professour, but complying with the times upon politick reports, he would therefore spue him out of his mouth (which he doth, Rev. 3. 16.) he will not hold those in his hand whom he shall find to be of the like temper. But I passe to the second head, that which concerneth:Vse 2.

The people. To the people.Let them also (in that place) take notice whose Ministers they are which are set over them;Take notice whose Ministers they are which are set over them. not properly their Ministers their servants. So indeed many at this day do look upon them, who use them accordingly. And in some sense indeed they may be so called; in as much as their office is to Minister unto them. p. 65Thus these seven stars here are said to be the Angels, the Ministers of the seven Churches, in the last verse of this Chapter. And Paul writing to his Corinthians acknowledgeth himself, and his fellow Ministers, their servants, 2 Cor. 4, 5. Ministers and Servants to them; but properly their Ministers, their servants. Even as it is with the heavenly Angels, they may see in som sense called the Churches, the Saints Angels. Their Angels do alwaies behold the face of my father (whih our Saviour speaking of beleevers to whom the Angels are guardians, Matth. 18. 10. Their Angels, ministring for them, Are they not all ministring spirits, sent forth to Minister for them, who shall be…heirs of Salvation, Heb. 1. last. Yet properly Gods Angels, Gods Ministers, who maketh his Angels spirits, and his Ministers a flame of fire, vers. 7. of that Chapter. Even so is it with these Angels, the Ministers of the Churches, they are so the Churches Ministers, as that yet they are the Ministers of Christ, sent by him, impowred by him. And so let the people look upon them. Let a man so account of us, foreign as the Ministers of Christ, and Stewards of the Mysteries of God, 1 Cor. 4. 1. Stewards are Servants, ministring to the meanest in the family, yet not properly their servants, but their masters, (I mean their Masters servants.)

And secondly, so looking upon them,Not daring … oppose them▪ let 2them not dare to oppose them, not their persons, if faithful, much lesse their Calling, which to do, p. 66what a madnesse is it? What is it but to go about to pull the stars out of the right hand of Iesus Christ? which I wish it were seriously considered by all those who are open, or secret enemies to the Ministerial function. Of which it is too apparent there are not a few in this Nation at this day. Some openly professing themselves such, crying down the Ministery, yea, and (which is strange) some preaching it down; and others bearing no good will to it, but seeking secretly to undermine it, to extinguish the Lamps by withdrawing their Oyl. O that all of them would but consider with whom it is they have to do in this businesse; not so much with man, as with him that is more then man, Jesus Christ. This is his Institution, which as he hath set up; so he hath also undertaken the maintenance of it, holding the stars in his hand, shewing himself engaged in this cause against whoever shall oppose it. How is it then that any shall dare herein to appear against him; specially such as acknowledge him to be (what Socinians the chief undertakers in this Antiministerial quarrel, will not allow) truly God, as well as man. So as in this opposing his servants, what do they better then (to use Gamaliels word used by him in the same case, Act. 5. 39.) foreign fight against God.

To deter all from such daring attempts,Arguments to deter men from such oppression. let me but desire them to go along with me a little, and take a view of this Son of man here as he was in this vision represented unto his servant p. 67John, where I shall desire them to take notice but of three or four of the parts and members of his body, viz. his Eyes, his Feet, his Hand, his Mouth. For the first of these, his Eyes, they are described, to be like a flame of fire, vers. 14. Piercing eyes, so as nothing can be hid from them, No more can the machinations and designs of these his enemies, how closely, how covertly soever they be carried. Though covered under never so specious pretences, yet cannot they be hid from these piercing and alseeing eyes. Next, for his Feet, they were like unto fine brasse burning in a furnace, strong and terrible; terrible to look upon, much more to feel, able to trample upon all his enemies. And in his right hand are these stars, which also is (as I have shewed you) a powerful and a terrible hand when it meeteth with his enemies. Thy right hand shall teach thee terrible things, Psal. 45. 4. And for his Mouth behold a sharpe two edged sword going out of it. Now who is there that beholding these will be so hardy as to dare grapple with such an adversarie? to attempt the pulling of these stars out of his hand? which whilest they go about, let them take heed of his feet, and take heed of the sword in his mouth, both which are engaged for the defending of these stars. This by way of Dehortation.

In the third place,Faithful Ministers to be▪ s…ught from Iesus Christ by way of Instruction let 3them in the want of faithful Ministers see whither to repair for them. Go uuto Jesus Christ, and beg them from him, So they are by him p. 68directed to do in that place forecited, Matth. 9. last. Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest. Now who is this Lord of the harvest, but himself? whose field the Church is, whereof he is the Lord. O beg it from him! that he would send forth labourers, able and faithful labourers into it. And truly great reason there is why all that wish well unto the Church of God in this nation should do this at this day, in as much as what our Saviour saith there in the ve. following, suits but too well with the present times. The harvest truly is great, but the labourers are few; Labourers indeed, such as have both skill and will to labour, able and faithful Ministers. Yea, and like to be fewer. There being divers of them already fallen asleep; and some others following after them, being already laid aside as broken vessels, no longer useful. Besides those, many discouragements cast in the way by those that are no wellwillers to a learned Ministery, so as that there may be just cause to fear a dearth, a scarcitie of such labourers. O pray the Lord of this harvest, that he would give out of this store which he hath in his right hand; that he would furnish his Church in this Nation (as elswhere) with an able and faithful Ministerie, sending forth store of such as may gather in the rest of his harvest; that so the number of his Elect being brought in, there might be an end made of these sinful and miserable dayes. This in the want of Ministers.

p. 69Fourthly, In the inoying of them give these 4respects to them which are due to them upon this account;Due respect to be given to faithfull Ministers. so esteeming of them as the Ministers of Iesus Christ. This Paul requireth for himself and fellow labourers in that place fore…ited; 1 Cor. 4. 1. Let a man, (i. e. every man, foreign put for foreign) so account, (or esteeme) … us, as of the Ministers of Christ. And so let all … of their successours.

First,Not undervaluing …hem. Not undervaluing them, not esteeming … meanly of them, but highly: Know them saith the Apostle in that Text forementioned; … Thes. 5. 13.) Which labour among you, and are …ver you in the Lord, and admonish you; and esteem …hem very highly in Love for their workes sake.] Though not for their own sake, yet for their …orkes, their office sake. For this esteem them, and …at highly, yea very highly, foreign ▪ …nely let it be in Love: Men oft times esteem …ery highly of men in high place, but it is for …ar, fear of their power.

Now there is no reason why the Ministers of …hrist should thus be feared, who doe not lay …aim to any secular jurisdiction. Let that esti…ation which is afforded them be the issue of …ove; Love for their Masters sake, and their …orks sake. For which let them be respected, …noured. Honour to whom honour, (saith the A…ostle) Rom. 13. 7. Now that this is due to the …ithfull Ministers of Christ, such as are foreign and foreign such as Rule well, and …bour in the Word and Doctrine; (as the Apostle p. 70describeth them in that known forecited Text, 1 Tim. 5. 17. He will there also tell you: They are worthie of honour; yea, double honour, both of Reverence and Maintenance; which let them not want.

And great Reason there is,Christ honoured in his M…nisters. why the faithfull Ministers of Christ should be thus honoured, seeing Christ himself hath honoured them. So it was proclaimed before Mordecay, Hest. 6. 9. Thus shall it be done to the man, whom the King delighteth to honour; him should the people honour also. And so let it be done to the men whom the King of Heaven, the Lord Iesus delighteth to honour, his faithfull Ministers, whom he holdeth as Stars in his right hand. The right hand is a place of Honour and Dignitie. Hence it was that Solomon placed his Mother there, 1 King. 2. 19. She sate on the right hand. And his Queen: VponUpon thy right hand did stand the Queen, Psal. 45. 9. And this is the honour which Christ will give to his sheep, his Elect at the last day, to set them on his right hand, Matth. 25. 33. Now such is the honour which this Sonne of man here giveth the Stars, he placeth them in his right hand. And seeing their Lord and Master thus honoured them, to afford them his right hand, let not his servants set them on the left, thinking too meanly of them.

Secondly, Nor yet, on the other hand, too highly: Not esteeming too highly of them.not above that which is meete. Remembring still, that they are but Ministers; Instruments in the hand of Christ, by whom he operateth p. 71worketh. Is it so then that their Ministry is made effectuall for the good of any, let them see whither to give the glory. Not to them: Who is Paul? who is Apollos, but Ministers? &c. But unto Christ, in whose hand they are, and who is pleased thus to put forth his power in them and by them.

Thus when we see a curious piece of manifacture, we admire not the tool, but the hand that wrought it. Such are the Ministers, Tooles, Instruments in the hand of Christ; what work is done by them give the honour of it not to them, but him. S. Peter directed the people; Act. 3. 12. when they stood gazing upon him, as ready to adore him for that great Cure which he had wrought upon the lame man. When he saw it (saith the Text) he answered unto the people: Ye men of Israel, why look ye so earnestly on us, as if by our own power or holiness we had made this man whole. By what power then? why the power of Iesus Christ. So much he declareth to the Rulers, being by them interrogated concerning it in the Chapter following; v. 10. Be it known unto you, that by the Name of Iesus Christ, doth this man stand here before you whole. foreign Through the power of Iesus Christ: And so much all the faithfull Ministers of Christ will readily acknowledge concerning the successe of their labours. If so be their Ministery hath been effectuall for the gaining and bringing in of any souls unto God, this is not their work, but the work of Iesus Christ, putting forth his p. 72Right hand, manifesting his power, in, and by them, his poore, weak and worthlesse Instruments. And therefore, whilest any shall think highly of them, yet not too highly. Let them not sacrifice to them, as those Lystrians would have done to Paul and Barnabas, whom they Deified for healing of the Cripple, Act 14. 13. But give the glory to their common Lord, in whose hands these his Instruments are, and without whom (as the Apostle saith of himself) they are nothing.

33 To this I might adde. Thus esteeming of them now,Receiving them, specially their Doctrine. let them be received. Receive us (saith the Apostle) 2 Cor. 7. 2. Received as the Ministers of Christ. Being Prophets, let them be received in the name of Prophets (as you have it, Matth. 10. 40.) Eo nomine, because they are such, the Ministers and Messengers of Iesus Christ: which who so doth, receiveth Christ himself in them. So he telleth his Apostles, Iohn 13. 20. Verily, I say unto you, he that receiveth whomsoever I send, receiveth me. Thus let their Persons be received with such respects as may become the Ambassadours of Christ; but especially their Doctrine. This is that for which Paul so highly commendeth those Bereans, Act. 17. 11 They received the Word (preached by him) with all readiness of mind. And thus let all hear and receive the Ministers of Christ. Receive their Doctrine, hearkning to it, beleeving it (so far as it is consonant and agreeable to Scripture, which was all that those Bereans did, who are p. 73there commended for searching the Scripture upon that account, so bringing Pauls Doctrine to that Touchstone) and yielding a readie obedience to it. So doing, now shall Christ be glorified in them and by them; and both they, and those who thus receive them in the Kingdome of Grace, shall be glorified with Christ hereafter in his Kingdome of Glorie.

FINIS.