Christ in Believers the Hope of Glory, To the reader (3 of 3)

Christ in Believers the Hope of Glory · To the reader (3 of 3)

p. 90Vse 6. This Truth exceedingly calls for a narrow Tryal, viz. If Christ be in us or not: p. 91And because it is a material business we shall therefore speak the more to it. 1. We shall lay forth some false Marks, by which many deceive themselves, both on the one hand, and on the other. 2. We will give you some true Marks, where you may judge in this matter,

In speaking to the false Marks, we must have our eye upon two sorts of Persons, and so speak to the Marks, whereupon each goes to work and deceives themselves: Some have Christ really dwelling in their Soul, and yet nevertheless imagine, that it is not so, upon …uch and such grounds, that they perceive in …hemselves, which they judge cannot consist …ith Christs living in them: Others again, have …ot Christ in them, notwithstanding imagine …hat he is in them, by reason of such and such …hings, which they judge to be real Marks of …hrists being in them. And both the one and …he other, are deceived with false grounds.

As to the First, viz. Such who have Christ …eally in them, and nevertheless will not be …onvinced thereof: They may mistake on these …nd the like grounds.

1. Because they are no wayes like to these …aints, whereof the Scriptures make mention, … whom was the Spirit of Christ; Neither like …ose, who now live, who have Christ in them: …s if (forsooth) all were Christians of the …me Magnitude, Age, Strength and Liveli…ess; As if there were not in Christs Family, p. 92young Children as well as old, young Centinels, as well as Lively, Strong and great Warriors, 1 Cor. 3.1. 1 Ioh. 2.13, 14. A Child hath real Life, and is a man, though not a strong and able man; yea the very Child in the Mothers Belly hath real Life; and so many Children in Christ go to Heaven, for he carries the Lambs i… his Bosome. Isa 40 11.

2. Because they find not the Operations of the Spirit in them; That is likewayes no true mark: For he may be in the Soul, and yet may be hide from the Soul, the Lord judging it fittest it should be so▪ that he may hide pride from their eyes, and they (as was said) may be keep'd humble and sobbing all their dayes. The Spirit bloweth where he listeth, and after what manner he will.

3. Because they are dayly full of Fears and Jealousies, that all is not right with them: Hence they conclude, that providing Christ were really in them, then all their Questionings would be done away, and all their clouds scattered, and they would obtain a full assurance: But this is a mistake, Christ may be, and Faith in him may be, where this certainty is not, never was, and likely shall never be, until the Soul come within the view of the Land of Glory: Yea the Scripture is …ull of such like Complain…s of the Saints, and of their often expressing their suspicions: It is the Disease that follows the Royal Blood, incident p. 93to the most Heavenly Spirits; Moses David, Heman, Asaph, Iob, Ieremiah, the C…urch, Psal: 120. Lam: 1. and 2. and 3. …nd 4 And that under the Church and Saints of the New Testament, as well as the Old, 1 Cor: 10.6. Now these things were our examples,— with v. 1.1. 2 Cor: 1 8 9 2 Cor: 2.11 2. Cor: 7 4, 5, 6. 1 Pet: 1.6, 7. Yea Christ may be there, where the Soul through the power of temptation pe…emptorly concludeth, that he is not in them, …therwayes woe to not a few.

4. Because Strangers to some sensible and …omfortable manifestations, which some win …t; They see not, neither find they, as with …ome, the Rayes and reall Blinks of his smiling Countenance: But this is no sure Mark; Christ …ay be, where these things are not, or other…ayes woe to many poor Soules. These are …he free outlettings of his Love, wherein the LORD dealls as a Soveraign; Allowing some …o come near him, for so …e thinketh fit, and …thers to stand farther off, and think it suffici…nt, if but admitted to stand within the portall …f his Pallace: All Subj…cts are not Courtiers, …or all Courtiers alike high: The Mother will …ake the one Child, and kiss and dandl… it upon …he knee, and not the other; So Christ takes …ot all his Children into his Banqueting house, …ither spreads he his Banner of Love over …hem, in a sensible manne…: Each one, is not …ayed with Flaggons, and comforted with p. 94Apples; Every one hath not Christs left hand unde… their head, and his right hand embracing them: Some must be satisfied, to want these manifestations, until they ascend into the Higher House.

5. Because they know not, what it is to have their Hearts lifted up in the wayes of the LORD; They know not what that Joy in the Holy Ghost meaneth, nor what it is to chear themselves with Joy unspeakable and full of Glory. O is this sufficient ground to conclude, that Christ is not in them? What a gross mistake is this? Do all Christians attain to such high Attainments? Alas! Some must be well satisfied to creep to Heaven, and never once get up their back, untill they win within the very ports of Glory: Some in stead of rejoycing, must carry the tear in their eye, the whole way and never get it washen away, untill that Christs soft hand, once for all, wash it off, and then they shall weep no more, being arrived there, where no sorrowing nor sighing shall be heard, for then sighing and …orrowing, must flee away.

6. Because their Graces shine not, nor have not that Beauty and Lustre, Which they believed to have had, Providing Christ were in them: Where Faith, Hope Love &c. is nothing to what it should, or must be, (thin… they) if Christ were in them. But they notl… not, that there are degrees of Grace: All ar… p. 95not Saints of the first Magnitude; Each ones Faith, (even true Faith) is not Assurance: Christ is, where the least grain weight of Grace is; And sometimes Grace will go in litle Room; Christ is, where there is but one smoaking Flax, and but one broken Reed.

7. Because they are not only without Comfort and Joy, but are also full of terrours, fears and trembling, whereof they imagine they should be free, providing Christ were in them: Alas, poor Soul, why thinks thou thus! Were it so as ye imagine, what should have become of excellent Heman, Psal: 88.15. Who from his youth up, was afflicted and ready to die, and was distracted with the Terrours of GOD, which he suffered. What should ye then say of the good King Hezekiah, who became to chatter like a Cran or a Swallow, and to mourn as a Dove, Isa: 38.14. And of others whom we could name.

8. Because they see no Grace growing in them, all seems to be going back with them: I grant, it is most lamentable when it is so, and a case much to be condolled; Nevertheless, it may readily appear to be so, when really it is not so; Christ may be, where this grouth in Grace, is neither seen, nor observed; Yea, Christ may be, where there is a sinful decay for a time, by reason of some Winter …lasts and storms, or by reason of some worm, or such like at the root; Nevertheless, the p. 96seed shall remain, and where the seed is, there is Christ, so that this is but a false Mark.

9. Because they observe so much Hypocrisie in their Actings, undoubtedly say they, if Christ were in us, it should not be so with us▪ But as to this, we should mark, that however, he who hath Christ in him, can be no Hypocrite; For a Hypocrite is such, whose state is without Christ; Nevertheless, he may have much hypocrisie in him, even as he hath mor… or less of other corruptions; Every act of hypocrisie, will not say, that that man is a hypocrite; There is great difference between yellow brass, and Gold that hath scumm mixed with it, the best of our Mettals have dross in them: The State of perfection is not here.

10. Because they cannot perform commanded Duties, without opposition and grea… fighting: Whereas if Christ were in them (imagine they) their wheels would move more Lightly: But this is also a mistake, and a perverted rule to judge by; For in the best that Live, there remains much of the old man, that never rests, But continually setts it self against every Good motion and work, that is in hand; so that the good that they would, they cannot get done, But the evil, that they woul… not that they are made to do, the Law o… their members, warring continually against the …aw o… their mind, making them cry Out, Owre ch…d man, that I am, who shall deliver me, from p. 97the Body of this Death! Rom: 7.14, 15.24.

11. Because corruption is not weakned, but as they imagine is on the growing hand, which could not be, providing Christ were in them: But herein is also a mistake, the one or other special corruption, may in respect of some temptation, grow more at one time, than at another, & nevertheless, Grace under no decay, nor corruption growing in the who…e Body: The leaves will abundantly fall off …he Tree, yea, and three times more in the Harvest, than at another time, and yet be under no decay: Corruption through temptation may be discovered, while never…heless, neither growing, nor in strength; And at other times they may be less seen and feared, when most strong and dangerous: An unseen and quiet devil, may be more hazardous, than a seen and a roaring devil; Corrup…ions grow… not alwayes most, when they rage most.

12. Because, sometimes they have gross out-breakings: This is sad I confess, and lamentable; But therefrom we cannot certainly conclude, that we are without Christ; Fo… Moses, David, Peter, &c. had their heavy falls, which occasioned the opening of the mouths of the ungodly.

13. Because, that sometimes they are carried away, with the tide and stream of their Corruptions, that they see nothing, but a p. 98constant course, and a joynt complotting of gross evils: This I aknowlege is a sad condition, and sadly to be Lamented; Notwithstanding there is no Satisfying ground there form to conclude Positively, that such a Soul, is certainly without Christ; For we find Asa did that which was good and right in the eyes of the Lord; And yet what a gross outbreakings find we in him, 2 Chr…n: 16. He made Benhadad to break his league with Baasha; And further to engage him thereto, he commited sacriledge, and spoiled and plundered the House of the LORD, and he trusted in an arm of flesh; And put the Prophet in the prison house for faithfully reproving of him,; And besides at the time, oppre…sed some of the people; And in his sickness, he sought not to the LORD, bu… to the Physicians. O! We cannot tell, beside how many corruptions, Christ will dwell in the Soul: Even such as are excommunicate for gross scandals, may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus, 1 Cor: 5.5.

14. Because they are troubled with dreadful temptations and blasphemous injections: But neither can this be a sufficient ground to judge …uch a Soul to be without Christ; We know with what temptations the devil set upon Christ himself; After that he had tempted him, with the foulest Idolatry, To wit, to worship the devil, then to a tempting of GOD, and a questioning his own God head, and his right p. 99and interest in GOD as his Father: What will he not then attempt against the poor Followers of Christ? And seeing he so assaulted the Prince of Salvation, in whom he could find nothing, and that for forty dayes together, and then but left him for a time, Mark. 1.13. Luk. 4 2.13. Why should his Followers think it strange, when long troubled with such injections.

15. Because the LORD pursues them in his anger, and in his carriage to them shews his sore displeasure, and writs their sins on their judgements: This also is no sound Mark so to conclude; For we know how he carried with David, Psal: 6. and 38. and 51. And what he did with Iob, who said, Chap. 6.4. The arrows of the Almighty are within me, the poison whereof, drinketh up my Spirit: The terrors of God do set themselves in array against me.

On the other hand, let us see, which are the false grounds, wherein others deceive themselves, imagining they are in Christ, when there is nothing like it.

1. They have a Pro…ession and a great Name, an Approbation of others, as none such Christians: But may with the Church of Sardis, have a name that they live, and yet are dead: Many believed in Christ, whom notwithstanding he would not commit himself unto, Because he knew all men, Ioh: 2.23.24. The end of the five foolish Virgins in the parable, Mat: 25. May sufficiently alarm such; p. 100For they were professors, yea great Professors, & acknowledged as such by others, long waiting P…o…essors, earnestly seeking to enter in, and desirous of oyl for their Lamps, &c. And yet Christ was never in them, for he declared He knew them not.

2. They are free of scandalous and gross sinns, whereunto some Gracious Souls may be lyable: But poor Soul, that may be, and yet Christ not in you: The Pharisee could say Luk: 18 11. God I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortieners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this Publican Many may escape the polutions of the world. 2. Pe… : 2.20. And ye… the letter end be worse with them then the beginning.

3. They are Civil and honest in all their dealings, no man can charge them for wronging any by false or cheating means: But this may be, and notwithstanding Christ never admitted into your Souls: was not the young man such an one? Luk. 18 21. who said, All these have I kept from my youth? Many Civilians go to hell; Civility may pretend somewhat, and go …ar among men, but it is of a small account with GOD, where there is no more: Yea, the heathen may exceed many a Christian, in respect of Civility, and yet they are without Christ.

4. They have alwayes, as they imagine keeped a good Conscience, never gone contrary p. 101to unto it, But in every thing they have walked according to the Light and Dictates of the same: This may seem indeed to be a great length, and yet nothing to prove that Christ is in their Souls; For many Consciences are deaf and blind, so that they cannot see far to guide, neither speak out, and many a ones Conscience is without eyes, and some Consciences are fast a sleep, so that this can prove but little: These that thought they did GOD good service in killing the Prophets and Apostles, according to what Christ …oretold, Ioh: 16. Had their Consciences going before them; Paul followed his Conscience, when he persecuted the Church, he acknowledges it, Act: 26.91.10. I verily thought with my self, that I ought to do many things contrary to the Name of Jesus of Nazareth. Which thing I also did in Jerusalem, and many of the Saints, did I shut up in prison, &c. Again he saith, Act: 23.1.— I have lived in all good Conscience before God, untill this day: Which seems to have respect to his unconverted State, when out of Zeal, he persecuted the …hurch, Phil: 3.6. And yet untill Christ appeared unto him in …he way to Damascus, he was a stranger unto Christ, and Christ not revealled unto him.

5 In many outward things, they are changed and reformed, and in respect of these they are changed folks: Alas! that may appear to be something, and yet is nothing to prove that p. 102Christ is in the Soul; For Herod was a stranger unto Christ, notwithstanding he did many things, when he heard Iohn; Mark 6.20.

6. They are careful Followers of the Ordinances, and take pleasure in running after Duties: This I confess may bear much bulk among Men; But it is said, that Herod heard John gladly, Mark 6.20. Isaiah speaks of some tha… sought the LORD daily, and had delight to know His ways, chap. 58.2. with Ezek. 33 31, 32.

7. They are much in Prayer, and think with themselves, that they are very diligent and serious therein: Neither is this any infallible token that Christ is in their Souls, For many may cry, Lord, Lord, open unto us, to whom Christ shall say, I know you not: Matth: 7.24. And many may ask, and ask a miss. Iam. 4.3. & 25.11.12.

8. They hold with the Good Cause, and with them that suffer for it; I acknowledge this is much; But this alone will not prove that Christ is in the Soul; Iudas continued long in Christs company, and many were Christs Disciples who in end forsook him, Iohn 6. David had many Valiant Men with him, who fought with him the battels of the Lord; And Paul makes a supposition of some, that might give their bodies to be burnt, & yet be without love: 1 Cor. 13 3.

9 They have much knowledge in the mysteries of the Gospel, they can speak much and illustrate the same by many reasons, yea, they p. 103can debate for it, and Preach thereof, and have many excellent and singular Gifts: This may be, and yet Christ not in the Soul; Gifts and Graces differ much, Heb 6.4. Read and observe it, and trust no more to such loose grounds: Shal not many who have prophesied in the Name of Christ, be shut out of the gates of Heaven? Matth 7 22.

10. They have strong and earnest desires to be in Heaven, & to do what is Right: And had not the foolish Virgins, a desire to enter in with the Bridegroom, when they cryed, Lord, Lord, open unto us: Matth. 25:11. Wished not Balaam to die the death of the Righteous? Alas! carnal self-seeking desires, will not prove that Christ is in the Soul.

11. They have many Convictions, upstirrings, and awakenings of Conscience, and good resolutions following therupon: Ah! many have had such, who never were brought to embrace Jesus Christ; There sickness is gone, and they afterwards become more obdured then ever: Convictions may be lively, and die out again, and terrors break forth, and hold up again, before that the Soul is brought fully home, and made willing to open unto Christ, and let him in upon his own termes.

12. They have a good opinion of the Doctrine of the Gospel, as being good and acceptable newes of good tydings and mercy; And p. 104have no exceptions against the conditions of the Gospel offers, they judge them very reasonable, just, and most worthy to be accepted: But light and Conviction will not say that the thing is done; At best it is but a tasting of the good word of GOD, Heb: 6 5.

Having discovered some of these false Marks, on the one hand and one the other; I come now to lay out some Particulars that will give fuller discovery of the matter; only I must say before hand, that every one, that hath Christ realy in them, cannot alike Distinctly feel and comprehend all these Marks in them; But some will be in case more to judg of some of them, & some to judge more of others of them.

1. Mark: Where Christ is, there has been some clear Discoveries of this, that that Person was without Christ, and of the miserableness of of the estate of being without Christ; As likewise a weariedness of being longer in that condition with strong disires to be delivered there from; As also a reall, full, resolute, & peremptory forsaking of all without Christ. I Say first, There hath beenclear convincing Discoverys of Persons being once without Christ, and of the Lamentableness and misery of that estate: Not that all has alike great and clear discoveries; But every one in some measure, has this clear discovery in them: nether say I, that every one is peromptorly to stint themselves to the same measure and degree of Light p. 105here mentioned; But that really, there must be some measure of light in the Soul, and such a measure as shall make willing to run out of that estate, and to hearken unto the G…spel. We must also here, pu… a d…fference betwixt those Discoveries, and the terrors that sometimes Accompanies them; Providing the Discoveries be such as drives to Christ, it is well, be it accompanied with more or less terror. (2.) I say there ha… been a weariedness of this their Natural state, with an earnest disire to be unbound and Delivered, and crying out with those, who were p…icked in there heart Act. 2. Act 16 Men and Brethren what shall we do to be saved: And there hath never been any thing of this sor…, there has been no in letting of Christ▪ (3.) I say there is a real and actuall casting off all other things, Because they cannot serve two Masters; There is a real forsakeing of all hope of life through our own Righteousness, or of any others whatsomever, But through Christ alone: what things formerly was account…d gain▪ they account now Loss …or Christ; Yea doubtless they count all things but loss, for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesu… …hil: 3.7.8 9 So that where there is a harkering after ou… own righteousness, or a resting thereon, or any thing besides him, for righteousness and life, with pleasure and satisfaction, Christ is not there.

p. 1062 Mark: Where Christ is, there is an opening of the heart for him, a real hearty accepting of consenting to closing with, and laying hold on him, As he is Offered in the Gospel; A receiving of him upon his own termes freely, and wholy, and …or all ends and uses, in order and in respect to Salvation; As the door is opened, so will he come in. Revel: 3.20. And where it is kept fast bolted, there is he not entered as yet: Where this opening of the heart, This cordiall Consenting, this soul receiving of the Offered Mediator, is wanting, Christ is not there. Its true some may have opened unto him, and yet not know of it, imagining that this opening to, accepting or receiveing of Christ offered, is some what else, then really it is, and looking out after more enlargedness of heart to receive him, yet more heartily; they account but Little of any thing they have yet gotten or attained; Therefore when the heart hath t…uely open'd it self for him and at least is realy satisfied that Christ who is a King, having the key of David open the Door, come in, Live there, and where the heart crieth out earnestly, O! when will He come to me; we may conclude that Christ is already there.

3. Mark: Where Christ is, there is immediatly an emptiness seen in all other things, and such fullness Discovered and discerned in him, which p. 107satisfies and quiets the Soul, so that it rests therein, as having an All-sufficient portion, and as fully pleased and contented therewith, because they judge (and indeed not a miss) that the Lines are fallen to them in Pleasant places, Psal: 16. They cry out; Whom have I in Heaven but thee? and there is none upon earth, that I desire besides thee: Psal: 73.25. And they are so satisfyed with him, that they sit down, & call in all their wandering affections and inclinations, that were scattered upon the mountains of vanity, and brings them all in to him as the Center; And gives them a new commission to be for ever again imployed in, by, and for him alone.

4. Mark. Where Christ is in the Soul, there they cast their burdens on Him, & run to with their Doubtings, Troubles, Accidents, Weakness, Accusations, Failings, Duties, and with all they have to do. The Soul shall have Him even in its eye a… All-sufficient, able and willing to help in all Exigencies and Necessities, and shall look out to Him for that effect.

5. Mark. Where Christ is, there He gets the Heart, for there he lives, Ephes. 3, 17. So that what ev… it b… …hat presents its self to the Soul, though never so taking, yet He has still the precedency, disposing, and chief room, unless it be for a time, that the Soul may be over poured and carried away with some l…st or other. These that have Christ in them, p. 108they Confess that Iesus is the Son of God, 1 Joh: 4.15. And so altogether Matchless: For all such dwell in Him, and He in them: So that He is unto them White and Ruddy, the chiefest among ten thousands, Song. ….10. And whatever is his, is altogether lovely, ver. 16. For unto them which believes, He is precious, 1 Pet. ….7. I acknowledge this love and esteem will not alwayes be the same, nor appear in the like degree: Nevertheless it is for the most part p…edomining and reigning, and where these …hings are not so, it is a sad token that Christ hath not as yet taken up his abode.

6, Mark. Where Christ is, there is a forsaking of all former Lovers, for now they have changed Masters: They shall say to their former Idoles, get you hence, as if they were so many menstruous cloaths, Isa: 30.22. Then they say with Ephraim, What have we to do any more with Idoles Hos: 14 8. For where he comes, all these must give place to him, as being worthy of all; There old (J) liveth no more, Gal: 2.20. But where the old lovers keep their poss…ssion, where the old idoles, the old sinns, have the old esteem, and the old service, and not as yet cast out with loathing and shame, it is not as yet …ight there: Christ, when he comes, binds the old man, sets the old Tyrant that possessed the Soul, out of doors.

p. 1097. Mark: Where Christ is, there is a compleat change, that word is realy felt 2. Cor: 5.17. If any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: Now is he, as he were in another world, drawing his breath in another element; They are no more the folks they were. They that are Christs, have Crucified the flesh, with the affections and lusts, Gal. 5 24. They look on those lusts and affections as their enemies, and declares themselves enemies against them; wars against them in root and branch, and against all their motions; whether they be sinful a… fections, and passions, such as these, whereby the mans Mind doth suffer, and is troubled and affected with; or whether they be sinful lusts, such as these stirred up by fleshly carnal Baits and Pleasures, as motions to Intemperance, uncleanness, &c. Now those who are Christs, are said to cruci…y and put to death all these, because they have engaged themselves by profession and Covenant, Sealed in Baptism so to do, Rom. 6.3, 4. And have actually begun th…s wo…k, so that though this Body of corrup… flesh be in them, yet through the Spirit, Rom. 8.13. And by imitating his Cross, Rom. 6 5. They are upon the work of Mor…ifying it, suppressing the endeavours, and smoothering the …ffects of it, Rom. 6.12 They resolve now to walk in newness of Life, Rom. 6.4. From this time forth they have a new understanding, renewed in the Spirit of their mind, p. 110no more s…bject to the Dominion of fleshly Lusts, whic… is enmity against God; They …ave a new will, which is now flexible to God… will and Command, neither doth it now rebel as formerly; They have new Desires, new Inclinations, new Work, new Ends before …em, new Followship, no more Fellows…ip wi…h the unfruit…ul works of Darkness.

8. Mark. Where Christ is, there is a resting on him for Li…e, and leani…g on him for Righteousness, Adop…ion, Justification and S… vation, wi…h …aul, Phil ▪ 3.9. Who desired to be found i… him, not having his own Righteousness, which is of the Law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the Righteousness which is of GOD by Faith. The Soul in…ends to live th…ough this way alone, to r…st in, to hide himsel… in Christ, until (…o speak so) a bitt o… the Man cannot be seen, that when he is calle… for, it may be answered, LORD, I am in Christ, not having my own Righteousness: — If Christ be in you (saith Paul) — the Spirit i… Life, …ecause of R…ghteousness, Rom: 8.30. The Soul resolves alone to live through this way, through his Righteousness. I… … LORD …ave we Righteousness and stren… say they, Isa: 54.24. In the LORD exp…c… they only to be Justifi…d and to Glory, …. 2…

9. Mark, Where Christ is, there is a grea… … to esh…w sin, Joh: 3.6. Whos…e…er … in him sinne…h not: To wit, with that … p. 111as formerly: They may be overtaken in a fault, as Gal: 6.1. But …hey are not w…llingly intangled again with the yoke of bondage, G…l: ….1. Som…times they may be carried away with the stream of a temptation, as David and Peter, yet they give not themselves willingly & deliberatly over to the will of their Lust…: But even when corruption has the upper hand, there is a party within them that protesteth against that course and usurpation, Rom: 7. That which they do they would not, and that which they do not, they would willing…y do; The Spirit warreth against the fl…sh, Gal: 5.17. Hereby it is, that …ey walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit, Rom: 8.1.

10. Mark, Where Christ is, there is a real, fast, & resolute care & endeavour to keep the Commandments of Christ, 1 Joh: 3.24. And he that keepeth his Commandments, dwelleth in him, and he in him And again 1 Joh: 2.5. Hereby they know, that they are in him, because they keep his word. They will cast at none of his Laws, but have respect unto all his Commandments, Psal: 119.6. This is their work and design, to be conformable in all things to his Law, and their faillings, are the cause of much sorrow unto them.

11. Mark, In whom Christ is, they live in Love, as in their Element, 1 Joh: 4.16. And we have known and believed the Love that p. 112GOD hath to us, GOD is love, and he that dwelleth in Love, dwelleth in GOD, and GOD in him, Also 1 Joh: 4.13. Hereby know we, that we dwell in him▪ and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit. A humble and condescending Spirit,, a tender and simpathizing Spirit, a Spirit of Wisdom and counsel, a Spirit o… Knowledge, and of the Fear of the LORD: We may see, what for a Spirit it is, that is given unto Christ without measure, Isa: 11.2. Where it is called the Spirit of Wisdom and Vnderstanding, the Spirit of Counsel and Might, the Spirit of Knowledge, and of the Fear of the LORD; So that these who have Christ living in them, are more or less partakers of this Spirit; For they are one Spirit with Christ, their darkness is in part removed, their pride killed, and they made more conformable to Christ their Head and Husband.

12. Mark, Who have Christ in them, they walk after the Spirit, Rom: 8.1. That is, they have a new counsellour, a new lea…er to lead them in all their wayes, they walk now in the strength of the LORD, being strong in him, and in the power of his might, Ephes: 6.10. They have new principles and new Motives to their work; They go now to their Duties upon another ground, and for other ends then formerly, a…d this is not at some times, at starts and si…s, but in a more serious, constant and resolute p. 113manner; For they walk after the Spirit.

13 Mark, These who have this Spirit of Christ in them, they live by Faith, …nd depend upon him for Grace, Strength, I…fluences and Life, that they may s…rve him in their na…ural, ordinary, and civil Conversations, as well as in their Christian Life; That they may be for him, and for…his Glory, in all their eating, drinking, sleeping, walking, wi…hin and without house, in their ordinary calling, work and Imployment, as well as in the hearing of the Word, and in Prayer: The Life which they now live in the fl…sh, is by Faith, Gal… 2.20.

14 Mark, These that have Christ in them, are of a broken and contri…e Spirit, they dare not arrogantly look up to GOD, they lyin the d…st, and cry guilty, glorifying GOD, and taking shame unto themselves: He dwells with him, that is of a contrite humble Spirit, Isa: 57 15. Such a Heart is his second Throne, whereas the proud he sees a far off.

15. Mark, Who have Christ in them, they get something of a publick Spirit; That mind is in part in them, which also was in Christ, Phil 2.5. So that they hav… a heart to lay out themselves more effectually for Zion then formerly: Christs cause, and the Suff…rings of his people lyes nearer thei… heart, then their own things.

From these Marks, we may try and see, i… p. 114we have ground to think that Christ is really in us or not.

Now, we come in the Third place, to speak of these words, Christ in you, the Hope of Glory, n so farr as they are the riches of the Glory of this Mysterie, which is now made manifest among the Gentiles; which will lead us to speak of the first part of the verse, wherein (as we said in the beginning) is a praise and high commendation of the Gospel on several accounts. As 1. Being a Mysterie. 2. A Mystery that hath Glory in it. 3. A Mystery, that hath the Riches of Glory in it. 4. A Mysterie now made manifest among the Gentiles. 5. Tho so, nevertheless the Riches of the Glory of this Mysterie is not made manif…st to all the Gentiles, nay not unto all that hear the Gos…l, but to the Saints mentioned verse 26.6. And that according to the good pleasur… of GOD, T… whom GOD would make known. 7. So th… it is alo…e GOD… work, to make known this Mysterie For the opening up of this Busines…, we shall first speak a word concerning every one of these pa…ticulars severally; And then to all joyntly, holding …his forth, To wit, that Christ in the Believer is the Hope of Glory.

First then, the Gospel is a Mysterie, consider it, the Doctrine of the Gospel is a Divine de…p, Mysterious Truth, therefore it is called the Mysterie of the Gospel, Ephes: 6.19. we may unde…stand that it is called a Mysterie in these respects,

p. 1151. In respect of the first finding of it out; …he Gospel was not at first …ound out by men … Angels, never could they have fallen upon …; It went far above the reach of their capaci…es to find out the way, how the condemned …nner, should again be reconciled unto GOD; …is only is the invention of GOD, therefore … is called the Mysterie of his will Ephes: 1.9. … Mystery unto which he gave a being out of …s own good will and pleasure, He willed it, …nd therefore it was.

…. The Gospel is a Mystery in respect of the disco…ery, and making known thereof; As no flesh …ould have found it out, so no flesh could have …allen on such a way, until it pleased the LORD …o make it known; flesh and blood hath not …evealed it, Math: 16.17. Yea the Angels …ould not have revealled it for they were strangers thereunto, and came to the knowledge …hereof by the Church, Eph: 3.10. By the Churc was the manifold wisdom of GOD (to wit in the mystery of the Gospel) made known unto the Principalites and powers in Heavenly places; therefore we hear that the Angels are present in the Assemblies of GOD… people, 1 Cor: 11.10. and Peter …els us 1. Pet: 1.12. That …he Angels are desirou… to look into these things, Tim: 3.16. Seen of Angels, giving us to know so much, They looked up with desire and satisfaction, as seeing something new in Him, which formerly they had not seen.

p. 1163. The Gospel is a Mystery, in respect of the way and manner of its manifestation. For it was not wholy at once revealed, bu… by degrees▪ the more to hold forth the worth and excelency …hereof: for fi…st darkly revealed, and mani…ested to Adam in this, The seed of the woman shall bruise the head of the Serpent. Gen: 3.14 15 Then 2ly It was a litle more clearly discov…red unto Abraham, Isaac and Iacob, These we…e the old stock, of Belivers: And this was also …hrough promises, when the LORD said un…o Abraham, …hat he should be the father of many Nations Gen: 15.5 6. And that in hi…, all families of …he earth should be bless…d, Gen: 12.3. and 18.18. and 22.18 Such like pr…m…ses we fi…d made unto Isaac, Gen: 26 4 And unto Iacob Gen: 28 14. And th… was the ver… Gospel, as Paul declareth Gal: 3.8. And Peter, Act. 3.25 3ly. It was yet more clearly discovered unto Moses, and u…to the peo…le, which G…D then separated for himself, in typs shadowes, …ff…rings …d …nd othe… figures and legal ceremonies; all which held forth, the way of Salva…ion through a c…uc…fi…d Mediator. 4ly. Then was …his business more clearly discove…ed unto David, …o that the good …h…ngs of the Gospel, are … the sure mercies of David Act 13.32, …3.…4. compared with Psal. 2 6. Isa: 55.3 Ps…l. 16.11.5. After that Christ is now come, … page missing p. 117whole business is more fully and distinctly manifested then ever; In respect of which clearness, the Gospel is now said in a special way, to be made manifest and revealed, and formerly shut up & kept secret Rom: 16.25.26. Now to him, that is of Power to stablish you, according to my Gospel, and the preaching of Iesut Christ, according to the revelation of the Mystery which was kept secret since the world began, bu… now is made manifest, see also Ephes: 3.3.5. See also the verse that goeth before my text as the subj…ct of this present Treatise Col: 1.26.

4. The Gospel is a Mystery, in resp…ct of the Instruments that reveal i… GOD himself first revealed it unto Adam, Abraham, Isaac, and Iacob. And men who had immedia…e Inspiraions, were imployed in this work Now at last his own Son Jesus Christ is imployed in this Embassag…, Heb: 2 3,

5. It is a Mystery, in respect of the persons to whom it is openly publ…sh…d? It must be a mysterious business, which G…D will not make known to all the world: This doth also hold out the singularity and excellency of the same, that not every one can m…ke to the knowledge thereof, bu… only some particular persons and Nations. GOD revealed the Gospel to few, save Abraham ▪ family in his day…s; And as he revealed it to the posterity of Iacob; very few of other Nations w…re priviledged with it; p. 118He sheweth his word unto Jacob, his statutes▪ and … judgements unto Isr…el, He hath not dealt so wit any Nation: Psal. 147▪19.20. And so commandeth Christ, that for a time, his Disciple should not go into the way of the Gentiles, no… enter into any City of the Samaritans, Mat: 10 5. In times past GOD suffered all Nations to wel… in their own wayes Act. 14.16. And eve… since the door was opened for the Gentiles the Holy Ghost would not suff…r Paul an… Timothy to Preach the word in Asia and Bethynia Act. 16.6, 7. So there has been i… all ages since the dayes of Christ, many N… tions living in darkness, without the gloriou… sun-shine of the Gospel: And the present sta… of the Jews, and far more then the greates… part of the world, gives evidence thereof. Fo… that part of the world, this day that is enlightened with the outward administeration of th… Gospel, is but very inconsiderable, in respec… of the other parts.

6. The Gospel is … Mystery in respect o… the few number of those unto whom it i… made known in power and life, seeing many are called, but …ew are chosen, O! How grea… a Mystery is it, even unto many, who ar… under the outward administration of the same▪ The Mystery of this Mystery is only made know… unto the Saints, as the verse before our …ext holds sorth, and Job: 17, 6. VntoUnto the men, which p. 119…hou gavest me. O How few believe the rep…rt, …hich is revealed in the Gospel, Isa. 5… ▪1.

7. The Gospel is a Mystery, In respect of th… …ptaking, or rather defect of the uptaking of many, even of those, who… have the re…ort thereof sounding in their …at…; how many remain ignorant thereof? Is it not a …tumbleing block unto some, as it was unto …he Jewes? And foolishness unto others, as it …as unto the Greeks? Cor: 1.23▪ Therefore …e see, that not many wise men after the flesh▪ …ot many mighty, not many noble are called. But …OD hath chosen the foolish things of the world, …o confound the wise, And GOD hath chosen …he weak things of the world, to confound the things, …hich are mighty; And base things of the world, …nd things which are despised, …hath GOD chosen, … and things which are not, to bring to nouhge …hings that are. Cor: 26.27.…8. These things …re hid from the wise and prudent, and reveal…d unto babes Mat: 11.2….

8. It is a Mystery, even in respect of those …ho are savingly enlightened, …or they know …ut these Mysteri…s, and prophesie in part, 1. …or: 13. they see now but through a glass …arkly 1. Cor 13.12. So, that it remains … Mystery, even to those, who see most of it.

…. It is a Mystery, in respect of the Matter … treats of: which will appear, if we take it p. 120up more Generally, or more particuliarly, First More generally, so it contains a Mystery. 1. It is called the Mystery of the Kingdom of Heaven Matt: 13.11. Mark. 4.11. Luk. 8.10. Here is indeed singular Mysteries o… state, whereof few have knowledge or understanding. 2. It is called the Mystery of Christ Ephes: 3.4. Because that therein that great Mystery is revealed, whereof Paul speake…h 1. Tim. 3.16 great is the Mystery of Godlyness, GOD was manifest in the flesh, Iustifiyed i… the Spirit, seen of Angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world received up unto Glory. The Mystery of Christs Incarnation, and his be…ng under the Law, and of his conception and Birth, of his N…tures, and of the uniting the same in one Pe…son, of his Offices, fi… tedness for, and excercise of his Offices, of his Life, Doctrine, sufferings and death, with the concomitans o… all these, all which is revealed and known unto us in the Gospel. 3. It is called the Mystery of GOD, and of the Father, and of Christ, Col: 2.2. As being the Mystery, that was joyntly carried on by the Father and the Son, whereof the foundation was laid in that old or fundamental con…ract of Covenant of redemption, betwixt the father, and the Son, concerning mans Salv…tion; And in so … the Gospel makes known unto us, how p. 221GOD was in Christ reconciling the world unto himself 2. Cor: 5.19.

Again we take it up more Particularly, and it may be called a Mystery, because the great Mysteries are folded up therein, and thereby Discovered and brought to Light, and that in such a Measure of clearness and Revelation as no where else, or by no other means is to be obtained: These Mysterysare many, we shall bring them to Three Heads.

The first Principal head, is of such Mysteries, as chi…ly respect men, whereof we shall name these following. 1. How, or on what conditions is it, that lost and condemned man, an heir of hell by Nature under the Wrath of GOD, is again reconciled unto GOD, and united to him, to wit, through Faith in Jesus Christ; which therefore is called the Mystery of the Faith. 1. Tim: 3.9. This is only brought to Light through the Gospel. 2. How that the Gentiles, who some…imes were a far off, without Christ, — Aliens from the common wealth of Israel, and strangers from the Covenants of promise, having no hope, and without GOD in the world, are now, made nigh by the blood of Christ; And now are no more stranger and forreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints, and of the houshold of GOD Ephes: 2.1….13.17.18.19. and 3.5.6.3. How justice is satisfyed, so that the poor Bankrupts, who had p. 222Forfeited their Right to Glory, and banished from the presence of GOD by Law and Justice, by reason of their breaking of the Law in Adam, and the Original Corruption of the Heart, and because of their dayly transgressions, are restored again into a State of Friendship, and brought again into the favour of GOD, and made Heirs of the Kingdom. The Gospel only brings these Mysteries to Light: For Life and Immortality are brought to Light through the Gospel. 2 Tim. 1.10, 4. How that Sinners by Nature standing under the Sente…ce of the Law, and guilty before GOD, are Justified in the presence of a Righteous GOD, and are Cloathed with a Righteousnes which is not their own, from any thing in themselves, but imputed unto them, and received by Fai…h: This is realy the Mysterie of Faith, and of the Grace of God that bringeth Salvation. Tit. 2.11, And this is Justification by Faith, and through the Grace of GOD, which the Gospel maketh known, and fully revealeth; For therein the Kindness and Love of GOD our Saviour toward man appears: Not by works of Righteousness, which we have done, but according to His Mercy He saved us, by the washing of Regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost: That being Iustified by his Grace, we should be made Heirs according to the hope of eternal Life. Ti…. 3 4:5, 7.5. How pro…tigate Sinners who have their hearts full of enmity against GOD, p. 123…eing enemies in their mind by wicked works, Col: 1.21. And who hate Christ and his Fa…her. Iohn. 7.7, and 15.18.23, 24. Are made willing to lay hold on Christ for their LORD and King, and to take on his yoke to believe in him, and to rest on him. By the Gospel is only made known, what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his Mighty Power. Ephes. 1.19. And how the Sinner is convinced, humbled, broken, and brought off from his vain hope, false grounds, and unsound imaginations, and perswaded to deny himself and his own Righteousness, and to flee to Christ, that he may be preserved under the shaddow of his Wings from the tempests and storms of GOD's wrath. This Mystery of Godlyness manifesteth unto us, how that Limbs of Satan are married unto Christ as their husband Ephes: 5.23.6. How the sinner, being altogether foul and ugly, polluted within and without, is made meet to be partaker of the Inheritance of the Saints in Light Col: 1.12. And sanctified and cleansed, with the washing of water by the word, That Christ might present it to himself, not having spot or wrinkle, or any such thing, but that it should be Holy, and without blemish Ephes: 5.26.27. The Gospel only manifesteth this real Evangelick way of Sanct…fication. 7. How cometh it to pass, that such a wonderfull chang is p. 124wrought in the creature, who sometimes was foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lust… and pleasures, living in malice, envy, hatefull, and hateing one another; How now they are tame as Lambs, seeking peace with all men, crucified to the World, dead to the pleasures and vanities which formerly they were drowned; being now taught to deny ungodlyness and worldly lusts, they live soberly, righteously and Godly in their present world, Tit: 2.12. The Gospel only Discovers to us, the right ground of this wonderfull change, and lets us see that this is the fruit of his Reigning, who i… th… R…d out of the stem of Iesse, the girdle of whose Ioy… is righteousness, and faithfulness the girdle of his reins, That the wolf shall dwell with the Lamb, and the Leopard shall lay down with the kid, and the calf and the young Lyon, and the fa…ling together, and a litle Child shall lead them &c. Isa: 11.1, 5, 6 7.8. How it is, that such as were the curse of the Law, heirs of hell, under the sentence of condemnation, are made heirs o… Glory, have a sure and Covenanted right to Everlasting Salvation; have the lively hope and certain expectation thereof, & are Coheirs with Christ, have the same sealed, which he as the head of the Body hath. The Gospel brings this eternall Mystery of love to Light; and maketh, the eternal purpose of GOD, and his decre… of predestination manifest, whereby he hath ordained unto li…e his p. 125Elect through Jesus Christ: here is the Mystery of his will made known unto us, according to …is good pleasure, which he had purposed in himself. Ephes: 1.9.

The second principal head is, of such Mysteries as relate unto Christ; And here is a bundle of Mysteries, Revealed and made known by the Gospel, which shall be matter of wondering …or the Redeemed through all Eternity. Take but some few instances, for his Name is Wonderful Isa. 9.6. And he is answerable to his Name; For he is wholy a wonder And 1 That he became a man, that God is made man, made fl…sh, and made manifest in the flesh 1. Tim: 3.16. And dwelt among us, Joh. 1.14. That the Creator of the ends of the earth, is become a Creature; how may the Angels stand astonished thereat, that GOD taketh on mans Nature, Uniting it in a personal union with himself? Who can …each the ground of this Mystery? And how should we have attained the knowledge thereof, but through the Gospel? 2. That he should not only take on him man… Nature, but also take upon him the form of a servant, though he (being in the form of GOD) thought it no robbery to be equal with G…D: & yet notwithstanding should make himself of no reputation, Phil 2 6.7. That he should take upon him our infirmities, and be made like unto us in all things except sin Heb: 2.17. That he should p. 126become poor as a servant, not haveing whereupon to lay his head, and being born had no better intertainment than a manger; And that all the dayes of his life he was a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief; And meeting with many injures and reproaches from the hands of friends and foes, great and smal, from Relations and others: What a Mystery of love, compassion, tenderness, and Condescendency is here! 3. That he should be GOD and man in two distinct Natures, and one person for ever▪ so that it was realy he who was GOD, that same Person who suffered all that was laid …pon him to suffer; Therefore are we said to be purchased with his own Blood Act. 20.28. This was the true Emmanuel, GOD with us Isa, 14.7. Mat: 1.23. Luk: 1.31. And he is GOD and man at this day, and for ever. 4 That he should come under the Law, who was the great Law-giver Gal: 4▪4. And that he subjected himself unto the commands of the moral Law and to the Institu…ion of the Ceremonial Law, that he might fullfill all righteousness Matt ….15. and 5.17. and migh… Redeem them that were under the Law, that we might receive the Adoption o… Sons Gal: 4.5. What a bottomless depths of love is here! 5. That this Person should come as the Fathers servant, with his orders and Comission Isa: 53.11. and 42.1▪ Zech: 3.…, Joh: 6.38. and 10.18. and 15.10. and 17.4. and 20.21. And that he took upon p. 127him the Offices of a King, Priest and Prophet Psal: 2.6. Heb: 5.5.6.7. and ….14, 15. Act: 13.— Luke 18.— and alone for our behoove, that he might be a compleat Saviour. 6ly. That He who was all fullness, condescended to receive a fullness as Head and Saviour of His Body, that we all of his fulness might receive, and Grace for Grace, Iohn 1.16. Thus was He anointed with the Holy Ghost above measure, Iohn 3.34. Psalm 4 5.7. In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge, Col. 2.3. It pleased the Father that in Him should all fullness dwell, Col. 1.19 Yea in Him dwelleth all the fullness of the God …ead bodily, Col. 2.9. And for that end, that he might be compleatly furnished for saving of His people. What could make known unto us, such a compleat ordained Mediator, but this Gospel alone? 7. That he fully and faithfully performed the word, which he undertook; exercising punctually the Offices, whice he took upon himself, and that he is still carrying on …h… work of these Offices, untill he hath deliverd up the Kingdom to GOD, even the Father, Cor: 15.24.8. That he for the carring on of this work of Redemption, was well satisfyed to endure the Cross, dispising the shame Heb: 12.2.3. &c. To be assaulted with, and tempted of the Devil Ma: 4.1, 2 3 &c. Luk: 4.2. &c. Heb: 4.15. to be persecuted unto death, yea to the death of the Cross, Isa: 53.9, 10. Yea and to bear the wrath and curse of GOD p. 128Almighty which we had deserved Gal: 2.13. Lu… 22 44, Isa: 53 5.6, 10. How may men an… Angels stand astonished at these Mysteries o… love that he undertook, and all for such, unto whom he was never, & can never be obliged▪ yea even for his enemies Rom: 5.10.9. Tha… he as a publick person, head and Representative of the Elect, which were given unto him to be saved, after that he had remained unde… the power of Death until the third day Act: 2.24, 25.26. R…se again from the dead by hi… own Power Joh: 10 18 And thereby with powe… declared himself to be the Son of GOD Rom: 1 4 And that he had satisfied Justice, having payed the price, and come out of Prison Rom: 8.34. Heb: 2.14. here are Mysteries full of hope, & soul consolation. 10. That he as head, and representing his ransomed Ones, should ascend up unto Heaven, triumphing over principalites & powers leading captivetycaptive, to take possession, in their Name, & prepare a place for them Heb: 6 20 Ephs: 4.8 Joh 14 3 The Apostles stood gazing on him, and so do ye lift up your heart… to gaz… on him by fai…h, and view him in that act, as p…ssing along unto Heaven, as leading sin, hell, death and devils in triumph at his Chario… wh…els, when he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, then he led captive all our Spiritual enemies, that would have ruined ensl…ved and captivated us.

Now leading of captives, is alwayes after a p. 129compleat Victory; And therefore whereas at His Death, He had conquered them, at His Rising scattered them, now at His Ascension, He leads them Captive. O what a Mystery of Hope, and of full Assurance is here! 11. That even when exalted to that high state of Honour, Power and M…jesty, having got a Name, which is above every Name. Phil. 2.9. And glorified with the Father Himself, with …hat Glory, which He had wi…h the Father be…ore the World was Ioh. 17.8. He should not …orget His poor Members on Earth, but that He daily now appears in the presence of GOD …or them Heb. 9, 12.24. & 7.25 Rom 8.34. An…wering all the particular Accusations brought …n against them 1 Ioh. 2 1. T…king care, that …hey and their Performances be accepted …phes. 1.6.1 Pet. 2.5. Revel. 8.3. How shall …e attain unto the knowledge of these Heart-…omforting Cordials, and Soul-strengthening Mysteries, but alone through the Gospel? 12. That He by His Word and Spirit should make real and effectual Application of the good and great Things that are purchased, by giving them Saving Grace, Repen…ance and Remission of Sins Act. 5.31. and Faith Tit. 3.5 6. Ephes. 2.8. 2 Cor. 4.13. Ephes. 1.17, 18, 19. And His Spirit establishing and strengthe…i…g their Faith Ioh. 14, 16, 17, 26. And bringing the begun work unto perfection, through the continual I…fluences of His Spirit; And at l…st p. 130…owning them with G…ory Psal. 110.1. 1 Cor▪ 15.25. Who thô such as the Eye hath not seen nor Ear heard, neither hath it entered into th… Heart of Man to take up Isa. 64.4. 1. Cor. 2, 9▪ Neither doth it yet appear 1 Ioh. 3.2. Nevertheless is the Revelation of these unknow… tran…cending Mysteries of Glory, only mad… known to us by the Gospel.

The Third principal Point is of these Mysteries, which the Gospel reveal… to us of GOD▪ These are also many, we shall name but a fe… of them. As 1. His Love and Goodness i… finding out a way of Salvation, and for th… end sending His own Son unto the World Well might Iohn say Chap. 3, 16. For God solved the World, that He gave His only …egotten … that whosoever believeth in Him, should not peris… but have everlasting Life. For who can say… express what sort of Love, or how great th… Love was? Heathens without the Churc… may observe and see much of His Love, in th… common tract of Dispensations, and His Goo… ness should lead them to Repentance Act 1… 17. But thereby they can never attain suc… length, as to see and understand this Lov… this everlasting Fountain of Love. This Lo… and Goodness o… GOD, is only manifested u… to Men through the Gospel Tit. 3.4.2 H… Eternal Purpose and Decree of Saving … Sinners, in a way unspeakably, tending to … Praise of His glorious Attributes, especia… p. 131of His Justice, Mercy and Wisdom: Nature …hereat must sing dumb; Nature can discover nothing how He has chosen some of us in Christ, before the foundation of the World, having predestinated them, unto the Adoption of Children by Iesus Christ, according to the good pleasure of Hes Will: To the Praise of the Glory of His Grace. Ephes. 1 4, 5, 6. Only the Gosp…l doth this Vers 9. Natu…e cannot learn us, how the Children unb…rn, not having as yet don… either Good or Evil, should h…ve it said unto them, the Elder serve the Younger, That the purpose of God, according to Election, might stand, not of works, but of Him, that calleth. Rom 9 11, 12, 13 3 His Soveraignity is in this matchless Remedy, in choosing o… some, and not all, in undertaking for some, and not for others, sending the glad Tydings of the Gospel to some, and not to others; reaching the Heart of some through the Preaching of the Gospel, and not of others. 4. His Justice in pun…shing of Sin, even in His own Son, when standing in the place and room of Sinners, which is a greater Demonstration of GOD's Justice than ever could be obta…ned by all the Plagues and Judgements, whereby He hath ever punished the greatest of Sinners Rom. 3.21, 22, 25.26.5. His Mercy in pardoning & passing by Sinners, according to the satisfaction of Christ, and in accepting such as believe, as Righteous, according to …he good pleasure of p. 132His Will Ephes. 1.6, 7, 8. Can there be a greater Evidence of Mercy than this? A grea… cannot be imagined; Therefore the Gospel … called the Grace of GOD. 6. His infinit Wisdom is herein discovered, in so ordering th… whole work of our Salvation, that Just…ce should be fully satisfied, and Mercy hav… place; so that Mercy & Truth should k…ss ea…h other: This is called His manifold W…sdom. … phes 3.10. All Wisdom Ephes. 1.8.7. H… Truth in letting loose all His Threa…nings upon the Cautioner, when the principal Debter was spared.

From all which it is more than evident, tha… the Gospel holds sorth the great Plot of Salvation more clearly and distinctly, than all …he works of Creation and Providence could have done. But

10. The Gospel is called a Mysteey, in respect of the many glorious and remarkable Effect… and Fra…s, which it hath; whereof we shall give these …ew instane…s. 1. By the Gospel, there is a Church gathered out of the VVorld, which shall stand to the end of the VVorld, in d…spi…e of all …he O…position, Men and D…vils shall make against it: VVhat a Mystery o… P…wer was here, when a few Fishers, without the help of Humane Learning and without the …ssi…tance of Humane Advantages, through Preaching and continual Su… fering, carried on the Gospel of Christ; So p. 133that it was spread throu…h the world, and continueth to this day, no…withstanding of all the Oppositions that the Gates of He…l can do against it, through Emperors, higher Pow…s, with inferiour Magistrats, corrupt Churchmen, &c. who through Subtility and Violence, laboured totally to root out the same. 2. By the Gospel, Men were brought out of themselves to seek R…ghteousness, and Justification in another; yea in a Crucified and Despised Mediator, and made willing directly contrary their Nature and deep rooted Inclination of Heart, which is continually looking out for Help and Delivery in themselves, to fors…ke their own Righteousness, and all which formerly they counted Gain, and to fl…e to Christ Jesus for all, and to lay hold on Him Faith, that only they may be justified in Him. 3. This Gospel learns the Soul alone to depend on Christ for Help in every Duty, whereunto they a…e called, and to see their S…reng…h only to be in Him, and in the Streng…h of His Right Arm O! a … My…ery to …lesh and Blood. 4. This G…spel m…kes M…n to forsake all Relations and Interests fo… Chr…st. Mat 10.37, 38. Luk 14 26. VVha… … Mystery of P…wer must be here? 5. This G…s…l m…kes M…n to f…rsake their Id…ls, … Bosome sins and Evil…, which formerly …ey loved as their liv…s, and to pl…ck ou… …heir …ght Eyes, and to cut off …heir right Hands Mat 5. p. 13429, 30. Mat. 18 8, 9. Mark. 9.45.6. Th… Gospel makes a Man suffer all things, and th… cheerfully, were it even Death is self for Christ and H…s Truths, and to forsake all that is de… unto him, yea the world. Act. 20 24. Reve. 12.11.

1 Vse. Certainly the serious pondering … …hese, Might justly cause us stand astonishe… ▪ Neither could we forbear from wondering providing we noticed what wonderful Goodness, Mercy, and infinit Condescendency, i… herein held forth, in the Lord's bringing to light these Mysteries, and His keeping up th… fairest and clearest Discoveries thereof for ou… days; or that orders our time in the worl… thus to be, when the Sun of Righteousnes… with His full and bright Beams, shineth in ou… …orizon.

2 Vse. The Consideration of the Lord opening up these Mysteries in our days, ca… for great thank…ulness from us. O how shoul… our Hearts praise and magnify Him, who ha… thus brought Life and Immortality into ligh… The Angels sung when this Evangelick day fi… brake up, and counted it their honour to … the fi…st News thereof to a Company of poo… Shepherds. Luk. 2.10, 11. And the Angel sa… unto them, fear not: for behold I bring you go… Tydings of grea… joy, which shall be to all peop… … unto you is born this day, in the City of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. Luk 2.31 p. 135whereupon Anna the Prophetess gave Thanks likewise unto the Lord▪ and spake of Him to all that looked for redemption in Jerusalem. Mary cried forth, & said, My Soul doth magnify the Lord, and my Spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour Luk. 1.46, 47. Zacharias ▪ when his Tongue was loosed, spake and praised God Luk 1 64 And again Vers 68, 69. Blessed be the Lord God of Israel▪ …or He hath visited and redeemed His People, And hath raised up a horn of Salvation for us, in the house of His Servant David, &c.

3 Vse. This requires that we should l…ment and weep over the sad condition of th…se. 1. That have not so much as the outward Revelations of these Mysteries amongst them, who notwithstanding of all this Light sit in Darkness, and live in the Land of the shaddow of Death. O! Pray for the coming of Christ's Kingdom, that the People …hat w…lk i… Darkness may see a g…eat light, and that the light may shine upon th…se tha… dwell in the Land of the shadow of Death Isa 9 2.2. As also the sad estate of those that hear the outward sound thereof, bu… knows no more of the lively Power and Operation of this M…ster…, then there were no such thing, Whom the God of this World hath blinded — lest the light of the Glorious Gospel —should shine unto them. 2 Cor. 4 4.

4 Vse This Doct…ine requires, … we walk sutably under these grea… M…cies p…ovided and purchased unto us, and improve th…m p. 134duplicate page p. 135duplicate page p. 136accordingly: And more especially. 1. Th… we esteem and account highly of this unspeakable Favour, the Mystery of the Gospel, which is the Grace of God, and the discovery of Life and Immortality. 2. That we be herein tender and watchful, that we neither do, nor say any thing, which may be to the Dishonour of th…s Mystery; But that in all things we walk wo…thy of the Gospel. 3. That we should be Zealous, in standing up for the Defence o… this Gospel, which is such a Mystery: we should be always ready to buy the Truth, and upon no account to sell it. 4. That we receive the Gospel into our Hearts, believing and welcoming the same; not judging it enough that we hear the sound thereof, without fi…ding, and experimentally knowing the lively and strong Effects and Operations of the same in the Soul. 5. That we in the pre…ching, and ye in the hearing of the Gospel, continually look upon it, as a Mystery, and therefore should beware of judging ourselves in a capacity to reach unto the ground of this so great a Depth, or to measure the sam… by our scrimp natural Understandings, or sh…llow Capacities, and so to cast at all, we cannot fathom, or attempt to cast it in our C…lins and Form. O! indeed a heavy Sin, a bold, daring, and presump…uou… counterfei…ing of …h… King's Coyn, and a giv…ng out of our Counterfeit, mixed, clipped Mettal, instead p. 137of the K…ng's true Coyn. 6. That we, s…e…ng it's a Mystery, and so far above the reach of our Capacities, should seek unto the LORD alone for Light; we should go to H…m as the Author thereof, and should go to Christ, who is given for a Light, that this Sun of Righteousness, who is the real substance of this Mystery, might clear up our Understanding with the Sun Beams of His light, and make us in some measure to know what the Riches of the Glory of this Mystery is, and that He might drive away the Clouds of Ignorance and Prejudices, whereby this light is keeped from us; Hereby we should evidence our believing that this is a Mystery, through our faith…ul and continual dependence on this Fountain of Light that we may see this Mystery of Light in His Light.