The Lives of Sundry Eminent Persons, Part 1 · Biography 18

The Lives of Sundry Eminent Persons · Part 1 · Biography 18

p. 186The Life and Death of Mr. Owen Stockton, who Died Anno Christi, 1680.

OWen Stockton was Born in the City of Chichester in the County of Sussex, His Birth and Learning.May the 31st, Anno 1630. He was the Fourth Son of Mr. Owen Stockton, a worthy Prebendary of that Cathedral, and was a younger Brother to that ancient Family of the Stocktons of Kiddington-Green in Cheshire.

About the Seventh Year of his Age his Father Died, and left the care of this Owen, and his other Children to their Mother, a Pious Gentlewoman of the Family of the Tilees, in Cambridgshire. And she being now a Widow, and but a Stranger in Chichester, soon after the Death of her Husband, left that City, and returned into her own Country, and setled her Habitation at Ely, where was a very good Grammar-School, under the Government of Mr. William Hitches, to whose care she commited this her Son, to be Instructed and Educated by him.

From his very Childhood he was of great Hopes, which yet a little Grammar-Scholar: Hopefulness.His Ingenuity, and inclination unto Learning, was such, as presaged more then ordinary improvement. Once, accidentally looking into Mr. Fox his Acts and Monuments, which lay in one of the Churches of that City, and Reading some little part thereof, he was so affected with, and desirous of the fuller knowledg of that History, that he never ceased to importune his Friends, till he had obtained One Volume of it for his use. And having once gotten it, declining all Childrens Recreations which his School-fellows busied themselves in, and for some Years, he spent all his vacant time, and what he could redeem from his School imployment, in reading it.

His Judicious Master discerning in him a ready natural capacity for Learning, and a desire after it, together with Industry, and diligence in his Studies, (for though he spent so great a part of his time out of School in Reading that History) yet withal, he so performed his Task and Exercises in the School, as that he never gave occasion to his Master, either to correct, or rebuke him. And also observing his Daily constant attendance upon the Worship of God, according to the Orders of the School: He earnestly commended him to his Mother, perswading her not to think of any other Trade, or course of Life for him, but that he should be prepared for, and sent to the Ʋniversity, in order to the Office, and work of the Ministry.

Himself also being inclined to it, and was fitted for Accademical Studies, in the Sixteen Year of his Age, Jan. the 2d, Anno Christi, 1645. He was admitted into ….Christs College in Cambridg, under the Tuition of the Learned Dr. Henry Moore. His Years were not many, but his Stature was much less then others usually are at that Age, so that for some time he could not pass along the Streets without special notice taken of him, and expressed upon that account.

His Residence in the College whilst he was an under Graduate, was so constant, Diligence.that he was not absent a Month in any one of those Years: And such was his Sobriety, that he abstained not only from Publick Houses; but in other places and company, from Wine and strong Drink, as judging Nature, in his Age, not to stand in need of such Helps.

When he had taken his Degree of Batchelor of Arts, he resided still in the College, seriously applying himself to the study of Divinity, which he always most aimed at, and intended. And in pursuance thereof, he went to London, and spent some Months there, acquainting himself with the principal Booksellers, from whom Goeth to London.he took an account of the best Writers in Divinity of that time, frequenting Sion College Library, and the Lectures at Gresham College.

He applied himself also to divers Learned and Worthy Ministers in the City, and attended on their Ministry, and the Morning Exercises, that he might observe the variety of Mens Gifts, and their several Methods in Preaching. By these means he Prudence.made so much improvement of himself, that he often said, That if it should please p. 187God to give him a Son, disposed to the Ministry, he would give it him as his particular advice, before he ventured upon the Ministerial Imployment, that he should spend some Months in London, attending upon those Learned Divines, which excelled in the Gift of Preaching, wherewith the City is usually well furnished.

Mr. Stockton being much affected, and pleased with these Studies, resolved to P…pursue them earnestly, and to prepare himself for the work of the Ministry, he did privatly, and yet in a most solemn, and serious manner, by Fasting and Prayer, make as it were, a Dedication of himself unto God for that Service.

When he was middle Batchelor, he was removed from Christs College, and made a Junior Fellow of Gonvile and Caius College, about the begining of the Year 1651. where, after a Years continuance, and Probation of his worth, he was Translated from that to a Senior Fellowship, which also he enjoyed by the space of Six Years, in which time he discharged the Offices of a Steward, of Catechist, and Conduct, to the great benifit and advantage of the whole House.

And here it was that the Lord trained up this his Disciple to be a Scribe instructed for the Kingdom of God, furnishing him so plentifully with Divine and Spiritual Knowledg, that he could readily bring forth out of his Treasure things both new and old, which he gained as well by Experience, and Observation of Gods dealing with him, and by the Operation of Gods Spirit upon his Heart, as by Industrious Study and Meditation. He was able to speak pertinently, suitably and seasonably to the various Capacities, Cases and Conditions, both of Saints and Sinners, and become a happy and powerful Instrument in Gods Hand for the Conversion, Edification, Consolation and Salvation of many Souls.

His design and desire being to serve the Lord Jesus Christ in the Office and Work of the Ministry, he directed the course of his Studies with special respect to that Service. And though his Place, and Exercises in the University obliged him to the Study of Philosophy, wherein he was equal to most, yet the Study of Divinity was his foreign, his work: Not satisfying himself with the Reading of the Elaborate Writings of the most Learned Divines, wherewith he furnished his Library at the Expence of some Hundreds of Pounds; yet especially he adicted himself to the Study of the Sacred Scriptures, as containing the whole counsel of God, which, as a Minister, he was to declare unto Men.

This course of his Studies God so blessed and prospered, that it may be truly said of him, as is said of Apollos, [Acts 18. 24.] He was mighty in the Scriptures: His Head, Memory, Heart and Tongue were full of the Scriptures, whereof he hath abundantly evinced by his Scriptural Catechism. And in the opening and applying the word of God, his Gift was excellent, and peculiar; so that all that knew him, or that were acquainted with his Discourse, Ministry or Writings, must testifie that with the holy Apostle St. Paul, he preferred the Learning gotten at the Feet of Christ, above all that he had got at the Feet of Gamaliel: And though he had the valuable accomplishments of other Learning, yet he determined not to know any thing, save Jesus Christ, and him Crucified. In this Knowledg, he was like to Saul, higher then most of his Brethren from the Shoulders, and upwards. Probably he propounded to himself for his Pattern, that Eminent and Powerful Servant of Jesus Christ, Mr. Arthur Hildersam.

But Knowledg alone is not sufficient for a Minister of the Gospel. He is best accomplished, whose Knowing-Head affects his Heart, and Governs his Life; who knows Revealed Truths, as well by Spiritual Sense and Experience, as by Speculation. The Spirit of God is a Spirit of Truth, and of Life too: Communicates both Grace and Gifts, and teaches as well to Live well, as to Preach well: Both which met together in this excellent Person. The Word of God dwelt richly both in his Head and Heart, and was effectually the Law of his Life: He was both a Burning and a Shining Light. A Man more then ordinarily mortified to the Pleasures of the Flesh, and to the Vanities of the World: Freely and resolvedly devoted to the Fear of God: His Conversation was in Heaven: His Communion with God: His delight in the Saints: His Business was Religion: His Zeal for Holiness: His main Design, the Glorifying God, and the Salvation of his own, and others Souls.

As for his Practice of Mortification, it cannot be better expressed then in his own words.

p. 188Having (saith he, in his Diary) been soiled by the Lusts of mine own Heart several times, and considering what I should do to get rid of those Lusts, which had so often prevailed over me, …od directed me to three several means. The one was suggested to me as I was walking in my Garden, and meditating on the affairs of my Soul, and that was, to be more frequent in eying, applying, and meditating on the Promises. And the Scripture which the Holy Ghost set before me for this end, was 2 Pet. 1. 4. By the precious Promises which are given to us, we escape the Pollutions that are in the World through Lust: The other was suggested to me as I was hearing a Sermon, and that was; to be daily applying the Lord Jesus to my Soul; grounded on Rom. 13. 14. where the Apostle advises us to put on the Lord Jesus Christ, as an help against Chambring and Wantonness, &c. The third was suggested to me as I was riding abroad, and discoursing on the things of God, and that was Gal. 5. 16. walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the Lusts of the Flesh.

In the pursuance of these means for the mortifying of the Lusts of the Flesh, I determined with my self to eye the promises of God more frequently then I had done; and to that end, I chose out some Promises that are of daily, and continual use; and intended, by the help of God, to salute and embrace them once a day, and not onelyonly to take a vew of them my self, but in my Meditations and Soliloquis to spread them before the Lord, and to put God in remembrance of them.

For supplying all the wants of the Day, I chose out that promise, Phil. 4. 19.

For Growth in Grace, Hos. 14. 5.

For subduing my Sins, Mich. 7. 19. Rom. 6. 14.

For success in my undertaking, Psal. 1. 3.

For turning all the events of the Day for good to me, Rom. 8. 28.

For the Conversion, and Sanctification of my Children, Isa. 44. 3.

For my Yoak-Fellow, and Servants, and all others in my Family, that they might reap good from me, and return to God, and grow in Grace, Hos. 14. 7.

For Sanctifying mine Afflictions, Isa. 27. 9. Zech. 13. 9.

For Audience of my Prayers, Mich. 7. 7. John 14. 13, 14.

For Grace and Strength to mannage all the Work of the Day, to the Glory of God Zech. 10. 12.

For Protection from Dangers and Casualties, Gen. 15. 1.

For giving me eternal Life, in case the Day should bring Death to me, Luk. 12. 32. John 3. 16.

For Counsel, and Direction in all Cases of difficulty, and unexpected emergencies, Isa. 58. 11. Psal. 32. 8.

I judged it also very conducible to the Glory of God, and my own Souls good, to mannage all my Imployments, as much as may be with an eye to the Promises, and as to my calling, where I am studying to compose Sermons (Deut. 28. 8.) when I go to Preach, Matt. 28. 19, 20. and for success in my Preaching, Isa. 56. 8. … 65. 23.

I was the more confirmed in this frequent, and familier converse with the Promises, not onelyonly as is helps on our Participation of the Divine Nature, and our escaping the pollution which is in the World through Lust, but because the Lord commands us to be always mindful of his Covenant, (1 Chron. 16. 15.) and it pleases God to see us taking hold of his Covenant (Isa. 56. 4.) and it is for the Glory of God, 2 Cor. 1. 20.

I determined also, when I should feel the working of any Lust, presently to look up to Jesus Christ. It being the Remedy which the Holy Ghost prescribes against such Sins as do most easily beset us (Heb. 12. 1, 2.) I have often been encouraged, and helped in this Practise, of looking unto Jesus to subdue my sins, from Act. 3. ult. God sent his Son Jesus to bless us in turning us every one from his Iniquities. Beza's Notes upon that Text is very good, and hat… been of much use to me, viz. that the Greek Word for Iniquities, signifies the Roots, and Habits of sin. I saw it was my Duty, and concernment every day, to be more frequent in applying my Soul to Christ and Christs benefits to my Soul.

In pursuance of the third means of Mortification, viz. Walking in the Spirit, I resolved to endeavour to do my Works and Duties, both to God and Man, more p. 189Spiritually, and in order hereunto, to reduce my actings to some Word, and as oft as I could to eye some Word of God, as I was entring upon them: As for instance, if I be called out by Oaths, or stirred up in mine own Spirit to visit the sick, or any afflicted Person, then to have my tho…ghts on, Matt. 25. 36. or Jam. 1. 27. when any poor People come to me for relief, or any object of Charity is presented to me, then to eye Gal. 6. 10. or Heb. 13. 16. Isa. 58. 10. Eccl. 11. 1. or Prov. 19. 7. when a poor Man comes to borrow, then Deut. 15. 7, 8. 10. when to write Letters, or to take a Journey, or be any ways imployed for others; then Gal. 5. 13. Phil. 2. 4. when to visit out of courtesy, or to do any thing which courtesy requires, then 1 Pet. 3. 8. when to instruct my Servants and Children, then Deut. 6. 7. Gen. 18. 19. when to Catechise the Youth that comes to me; then Job. 21. 15. Prov. 22. 6. when invited to exercise abroad to Poor or Rich; then Isa. 32. ult. when to administer a reproof; then Levit. 19. 17. when to confer about Spiritual things, then Mal. 3. 17.

This was the wise and Holy method which this faithful Servant and Souldier of of Jesus Christ prescribed to himself by Divine direction, whereby to manage the spiritual warfare with the sin that dwelled in him, that he might not be overcome by it. According to which he also charged himself with the Practice of universal positive holiness, which he expresses in his Diary.

Being (saith he) under the rebukes of God's chastening Providence, I set apart a day to humble my Soul with Fasting and Prayer, that I might obtain from the Lord a sanctified use of mine Afflictions, I sought God to pardon my sins, which were the causes thereof, and to make them work for my good. I spent a good part of the Day in Meditating how I should make a right use of these Corrections.

I considered that one main end of Chastisoments was, that God might make us partakers of his Holiness, Heb. 12. 10. Isa. 26. 9. And I resolved in the strength, and by the help of God, to follow after Holiness more vigorously than I had done, and I engaged this resolution, because I saw from Isa. 60. 21. that by my being Holy, and Righteous, God should be Glorified.

And seeing the nature of Holiness lyeth in our bearing Gods Image, in our being like to God, or in our conformity to the Divine Nature,) Ephe. 4. 24. Col. 3. 10.) I resolved to endeavour to imitate and resemble God in Mercifulness, Luke 6. 36. In forgiving Injuries, Eph 4. ult. in doing good, Psal. 119. 68. in Justice, Deut. 32. 4. in Love, John 4. 16. in Humility, Psal. 113. 5, 6. in Long-Suffering, Exod. 34. 6. in not retaining Anger, Psal 30. 5. in Uprightness, Isa. 26. 7. in Kindness, Luke 6. 35. in helping the Fatherless, the Stranger, and the Widdow, Psal. 10. 14. and Psa. 146. 9. and whereas we come to partake of Gods Image. 1st. By beholding the discovery which he hath made of himself and his glorious Attribute in the Gospel, 2 Cor. 3. 18. 2ly. By applying the Promises, 2 Pet. 1. 4. 3ly. By walking with him, Acts 4. 13. For we grow like unto those with whom we converse, Prov. 22. 24, 25 I determined to walk with God, to cleave to the Promises, and to meditate often upon his glorious Attributes.

And seeing that our Holiness consiets in the conformity of Life to the will of God, revealed in his Word, as well as in the resemblance of the Divine Nature, I determined to set before me several Scriptures as my Rule to walk by, and often to ponder them, and if I cannot walk up to these Rules, yet my endeavours shall be (Grace assisting) to walk after them, and that will be accepted as a Demonstration of my Love to God, 2 John verse 6.

For guiding and regulating my thoughts, I set these Scriptures before me, Jer. 14. 14. Isa. 55. 7. Mal. 3. 17. Psal. 104. 34. Phil. 4. 8. Prov. 23. 26. Deut. 15. 9. Eccl. 10. 20. Prov. 24. 9. Mat. 9. 4. Zech. 8. 17.

For regulating mine Affections, these, Col. 3. 2. 5. Gal. 5. 24. perticularly for my Delight, Psal. 1. 2. and 37. 5. my Joy. Phil. 4. 4. Psal. 43. 4. my Desires, Isa. 26. 8, 9. my Sorrow, Ezek. 7. 16. my Love, Matt. 22. 37. and Psal. 119. 97. my Hatred, Psal. 97. 10. my Fears, Luke 12. 4, 5. my Hope, Psal. 39. 7. my Trust, Psal. 62. 8. Isa. 26. 4.

For regulating my Speech, Eph. 4. 29. Col. 4. 6. Deut. 6. 6, 7. Psal. 19. 46. and 7. 8. 24. Prov. 41. 26. we should lay it as a Law upon our selves to speak kindly to all sorts of Persons.

p. 190For my Works these, Tit. 3. 8. 2 Tim. 2. 12. 1 Tim. 5. 10. Tit. 2. 14. Matt. 5. 47. 1 Tim. 6. 18. Rev. 3. 2. Rom. 13. 12. Acts 26. 20. Our Works must be visible, as well as truly good, Matt. 5. 16. must be exemplary, Tit. 2. 7. Yet we must not expect Justification, or Salvation by our own Works, but by Grace, Eph. 2. 8, 9. Rom. 3. 28.

Thus did this Man of God gird himself with the Sword of the Spirit, which he faithfully and successfully managed against his Corruptions, and Temptations. Thus did he put on the Breast of Righteousness, holding the Mistery of Faith in a good Conscience, applying the Word of God as an inviolable Law, and Rule to his Heart and Life; sincerely aiming at the Glory of God, and the obtaining that Blessedness; which, by the Covenant of God, is secured to the undefiled in the way who walk in the Law of the Lord, and by his Life conformable thereunto, demonstrated the strictest Holiness, to be Practicable, Eligible, and Delectable by his own Example.

But though he was liberally instructed by Nature, Art, and Grace for the Office, and Work of the Ministry; Yet, such low thoughts he had of himself, and such deep affecting apprehensions of the difficulty, and weight of the Work and Office of the Ministry; which, as it is in it self, so it was to him, Onus tremendum, a dreadful Burden, and he thought with Saint Paul, who is sufficient for these things. And though it was his Design and Desire to serve God and his Church in that great Work, yet he was so discouraged, that he would not (as too many do) hastily adventure to seek for Ordination, but would first prove himself well, ask Counsel of God and his Word, and to attend a call of God by his Spirit and Providence.

Being now Master of Arts, he did sometimes exercise his Gifts in some Countrey Villages near to Cambridge. And he used privately to enquire what small Parishes were within ten or fifteen Miles of the University and destitute of Ministers. And unto these he Preached, yet with such privacy, as for some time none knew of it but himself and the People to whom he Preached: yet, to many of them, it was a long time unknown from whence he came, and who he was.

This Service he performed Gratis, without exspecting any Reward from Man: Yea, it was some burden to him. Among these Countrey People God blessed his Labours, and gave him the first Fruits of his Ministry, making him Instrumental and Succesful in the Confession, and Edification of many: whereby he was endeared unto them, and they to him; that, after he was called to Preach in a Parish in Cambridge, he would yet go often among them on the week days, sometimes in one Place, and sometimes in another, and the People would lay aside their Countrey Businesses, and readily Travel several Miles to attend upon his Ministry.

Yea, after he was removed some considerable distance from them, into Essex and Suffolk, he would for the most part, so long as he lived, go once a Year to visit them, Preaching to them, and Conversing with them.

After a while that he had thus Exercised his Gifts among this Country People, he observed Three things especially, which much encouraged him wholy to give up himself to the Office and Work of the Ministry.

First, The benifiting of his own Soul in his Meditations for Preaching. Whilst he was studying for others, the Lord made it a word of Instruction to himself. And he found it the best means of growth, to be watering of others.

Secondly, He found his heart much diverted from other Studies. Philosophy was very tedious to him. He found little satisfaction in Humane Authors, not to be compared with Meditation on Divine things. Yea, he desired all other Studies, and they were very unsavory to him.

Thirdly, The Lord had been pleased, in some measure to Bless his Labors in sundry places where he had Preached, and God so ordered it, that it came to his knowledg, which much encouraged him wholy to devote himself to the Ministry.

Anno Christi, 1654. He was chosen Catechist in the College for that Year. In which Election there was a special Providence of God; for whereas before, the Master used to nominate the Fellow to such Offices as they should bear, he, this Year bad the Fellows to agree, and chuse among themselves; which they did, and chose among themselves according to their Seniority. He being absent upon business, p. 191they cast the Catechist place upon him, which he accepted of, and accordingly began to discharge it in Michaelmas Term. This was the first place where he fell upon a constant course of Preaching: wherein God also much encouraged and Honoured him. For the very first Night that he began his Exercise, one of the Fellows came to him, and told him, that he had felt the Power of God in that Ordinance upon his Heart.

The Statutes of the College tied him to these Exercises in Term-time only, but towards the end of that Term, he began to consider whether he should not continue that Exercise as well out of Term-time, as in Term-time: His Zeal to take all opportunities of doing Good prompting him to it: Whereunto he was much quickned by a Sermon Preached in St. Maries, by the Reverend and Learned Doctor Tuckney, Professor of Divinity there, wherein he shewed what a Blessed and desirable thing it was to have the Church of God multiply and encreased, and in his Application, directing his Speech chiefly to the University, he said, That he did earnestly beseech every one of them in their places to endeavor the encrease of the Church of God, both by adding themselves, and endeavouring to add others to it: He looked upon this word as directed especially to himself, and took encouragement from it to proceed chearfully in his work.

About Easter following a motion was made to him by one of St. Andrews Parish in Cambridg, in the name of the rest, to supply that place; this he assented not to, yet he promised to give them a Sermon. But afterward the motion being again renewed with more importunity, he advised them to seek to God for direction in a Business of that weighty concernment, commending to them others of greater Abilities, and that had more Grace then himself: Yet he said, He would not at that time neither deny, nor promise any thing. About Six Weeks after there came Eight or Nine of them, in the name of all the rest, importuning him that he would Preach with them on the Lords Days in the Forenoon.

And after a Fortnights consideration, and seeking of God, and consulting Friends, he complied with their desire, and accepted of the Service.

Here God so Blessed his Ministry, both to the Schools, and People of the Town, that his Encouragement was very great, for which he heartily Blessed God. And in the College he so well acquitted himself, that the Year now expiring, he was again chosen Catechist for the Year ensuing.

And being now satisfied that God called him to the Office of the Ministry, he resolved thoroughly to Devote himself to it by Ordination: For which end he went up to London, and being their Proved and Approved of, [Feb. 13. 1655.] he was solemnly set apart to this Office by Fasting and Prayer, and laying on of the Hands of the Presbytery: To which also God seemed to set to his Seal, both during the Action, by very Gracious Influences of his Spirit upon his Heart, beyond his Preparations: And on the Lords Day following, being requested to Preach both parts of the Day at the Charter-House, he understood that divers in that Congregation were much affected with those his first Sermons after his Ordination.

In his return from London he experimented a very gracious Providence of God, with which his Heart was much affected, which was this, The Night overtaking him before he could reach Hasting-Mills, (where the Waters were very high by reason of a Flood) just as he came almost to the Water, a Man met him, who knowing the danger, and the safest passage through, offered him his Service, and very kindly lent him his Horse, which was taller, and stronger then Mr. Stocktons, and by Riding before him, conducted him safely over, which else he could not have done without the hazard of his Life.

Mr. Stockton being now returned unto his Charge in Cambridg, with what Conscience, Faithfulness, Zeal and Diligence, he applied himself to the work to which he had Devoted himself, and was now solemnly set apart for, we may judg by what follows in his own words.

July the 7th, 1656. I set a part that Day for Fasting and Prayer, to seek for Counsel of God, whether I should Preach in the Afternoon at St. Andrews: And now my time for Chappel-Exercises being expired, having humbled my self, and sought unto God for direction, I was by Scripture fully perswaded that it was th… mind of God that I should do it, and that from these Scriptures,

1 Cor. 9. 16, 17. Necessity is laid upon me, and Woe is to me, &c.

p. 192Eccle. 11. 6. In the Morning sow thy Seed, &c.

1 Cor. 15. 58. Always abounding in the work of the Lord, &c.

Gal. 6. 10. As we have opportunity, &c.

Hereupon I resolved to Preach once a Fortnight in the Afternoon, to which I was encouraged from Isa. 41. 10. and Matth. 28. ult.—Lo I am with you, &c.

July the 13th, 1656. I began my Afternoons Exercises; begining with the Doctrine of Repentance, and found the Lord much with me, assisting and enlarging me, and Blessing my Labours to some, &c.

April the 21st. 1657. I set this Day apart by Fasting and Prayer, for direction in a Business which had lain upon my Spirit near half a Year, which was, to Preach once a Fortnight on the Week Days in St. Andrews, where I was placed: A…d consulting the Scriptures, these came into my mind, Acts 6. 4. We will give our selves contiually to Prayer, &c. Rom. 1. 1. 14, 15. where I saw that one seperated to the Gospel of Christ was a Debtor, and should be ready, as Isa. 40. 9. O thou that bringest good Tidings to Zion, &c. This Scripture I found set home with Life and Power in reference to my present doubt, the rather considering that it is mainly directed to such as are sent to Preach the Gospel, by comparing it with Isa. 52. 7. & Rom. 10. 15.

Then did he consider and lay before him sundry Arguments moving him to undertake, and set upon that Lecture. And after these he also set down his Discouragement, which yet he answered and removed, and thereupon set up a Lecture once a Fortnight on Thursdays at Three a Clock in the Afternoon: He began it the first Thursday in June, 1657.

Though his constant Weekly work at St. Andrews Church was enough to exercise more then ordinary Strength, both of Mind and Body, yet had he many other occasions of Services, not only in the College as a Tutor, which Trust he diligently and faithfully discharged, both as to Learning and Religion: But in the Town, where he frequently Preached Funeral Sermons, and Trinity Lecture; and in the Country also, where he Preached sundry Lectures, both in the County of Cambridg and Huntington: All which he performed not in a perfunctory manner, but as a Workman that needed not be ashamed: upon which account he never wanted a full Auditory, as well of Scholars, as of Towns-People. His Sermons were well studied and digested: His Matter substantial and Spiritual; His Arguments strong; His Utterance clear, deliberate and grave: His Words apt, and natural to express the Conceptions of his Mind, He affected not a strain of Words which Mans Wisdom teacheth, nor allowed himself a liberty of Words which Mans indiscretion poureth out.

In all his Application unto God by Prayer, his Behavior, words and manner of Utterance, bespeak his solemn and affecting apprehensions of the Majesty and Holiness of God whom he Worshiped, upon all which Considerations he was Nulli secundus, if not a None-such in the University in his Day.

Scarce Two Months were expired after he had begun his Week-Day Lecture, when the Mayor and one of the Aldermen of Colchester in Essex, (whether his Fame reached,) applied themselves to him in Cambridg, desiring him to accept their Lecturers place, then void: But he, only so far complied, for the present, as to promise to come over to them, and to Preach a Sermon or two among them; which he performed about Three Weeks after.

After Preaching, the Aldermen and Common Councel met, and unanimously chose him to that Place. His Work was to Preach on Lords Days in the Afternoons, and every Wednesday in the Morning. He had also the Suffrage of the Godly People in the Town, and Country thereabouts. And as formerly, so here also, he had the same encouragement, God making his first Sermon effectual upon the Heart of a Dutchman that lived there: and his Second or Third upon an other Person noted for a Sinner, who came out of Novelty to hear him. Concerning whom, he might say as St. Paul did, 1 Thes. 1. 9. They shew of us, what manner of entring we had.

But it fared heer with him as it did at Cambridge, he thought he did not work enough, and going freely, offered himself to Preach on the Lords day Mornings, at St. Jame's Church, not desiring any Reward for it; And he was a very great Blessing p. 193to this Town, not onelyonly as to their Spiritual but Temporal concerns also. For it was observed that the during the time of his aboad there, the Town prospered, and flourished exceedingly in Trade. For even the good things of this Life doth the Gospel carry with it.

Here he laboured faithfully and diligently, till by the Ast of Uniformity; he, with the rest of his Brethren, were debarred from the Publick Exercise of his Ministry. Yet thinking himself not bound to be his own Executioner, and there being mutual Obligations by Contract between the Town and him, that the own should not eject, nor the other desert without so long warning, he continued his publick Preaching, till having occasion to go unto Cambridge-shire, in his absence another was put into his place by the B. of L.

From thenceforth (with Saint Paul, Acts 28. 30.) he dwelt three whole years in his own hired house, and received all that came into him, Preaching the Kingdom of God with all confidence, till God sent the raging Pestilence into the Town, Anno Christi 1665. wherewith he was greatly affected, and seeing many, both of the Shepherds, and of their Flocks hasting their Flight, and many others daily passing into Eternity, he was much moved with compassion, and out of a zealous desire of their Salvation, he sent to the Magistrates, and offered freely, if that they would allow him the liberty of a Publick Church, h… would stay and Preach to them, till either God should take him away by Death, or cause the Plague to cease: But this being denied him, he seriously thought of leaving the Town.

Having sought of God a right way for himself and Family, he received satisfaction for the lawfulness (in the time of the Plague) to remove, from Isa. 26. 20. Hide thy self for a little moment, &c. And he was encouraged to hope, that God would go with him, from Gen. 28. 15. I am with thee, &c. Adding ther…to, Gal. 3. 7, 9. And accordingly, August the 25th, Anno Christi, 1665. he r…moved to Chattisham in Suffolk, about Twelve Miles from Colchester.

Being now come to a place where he was a meer stranger, without any acquaintances, and considering the dangerousness of the times, he had many doubts and fears concerning the comfort of his abiding there: But he quickly received satisfaction from the Holy Scriptures, which were his daily delight, a Man of his Counsels.

August the 27th, Being the first Sabbath after his coming thither, the Chapter which fell in course for his private Reading, was Ezek. 37. from whence he observed, that though God brought the Prophet into a Valley, where were only dry Bones, yet there he had work for him, and made his Labours successful and profitable, &c.

Accordingly God inclined the Heart of these Strangers, not only to respect and honour him, but indulged him the liberty of private Preaching, and opened to him a Door for the frequent Exercise of his Ministry in Publick, which was denied him at Colchester.

The Minister of the Parish having another Cure, could not attend this but once in a Fortnight, and going, did not only willingly, but thankfully indulge to Mr. Stockton the liberty of his Pulpit: And his maintenance being small, and some Burdens lying heavy upon him, after a while he deserted this Place, and wholy left the People to shift for themselves: whereupon, at their request, Mr. Stockton supplied that vacancy; and his Zeal provoked others, both Ministers, and People, to do the like. For other Neighbouring Parishes wanting Ministers for want of maintenance, called in the help of Non-conformists, who enjoyed the liberty of their Ministry for many Years, if not until this Day.

When it pleased the Kings Majesty to set forth his Gracious Declaratìon for Indulgence, Mr. Stockton was chosen both by a Congregation in Ipswich, and by another in Colchester: and both being very desirous of him, he undertook half the Service for either, and so, with others divided his Labours between them so long as he lived.

His Labours were abundant: For besides his Preaching Twice every Lords Day, he many times Expounded, and Chatechised the Youth, and resolved Cases of Conscience to such as applied themselves to him for that end. He also Preached a Lecture at Ipswich on the Week Day once a Fortnight: And scarce a Week passed, but he assisted at some other Lecture: Or some Funeral Sermon, or help to keep private Fasts at home and abroad.

p. 194The Providence of God over him was very signal: For notwithstanding his Zeal and Constancy in these Duties, at home and abroad; and the severity of the Laws, the Malice, Watchfulness and Endeavors of his Adversaries, yet God suffered not an Hair to fall from his Head, the Complaints, Indictments, Convictions, Warrants, Presentments, Excommunications, were made against him, yet was he never imprisoned, Apprehended, Distrained, or brought before any Court, or Magistrate: And he was much affected with this care of God over him, and thankfully accepted and Recorded it, as the Instance of Gods faithfulness, and performance of his Promise, as the answer of his own Faith, and Prayers, and as the Reward of his Love, and Zeal, and Courage for God and his Church: by the Power whereof, he lived above Fears and Dangers. For thus he Writes,

April the 16th, 1665. Being the Lords Day, I awaked with that Scripture in my Thoughts, 1 Tim. 1. 15. This is a faithful saying, &c. I dwelt upon it, and drew comfort and relief for my Faith, through the help of God: The comfort I had, was, That Christ came to save the chief of Sinners. That this was a Faithful saying, that it was worthy of all acceptation, or to be embraced of every one: And that this Salvation was from Sin as well as from Hell, Matth. 1. 21. And considering whether he would save me, I was satisfied from John 6. 37. Him that cometh to me, I will in no wise cast out, &c.

September the 19th, As I was Expounding Psalm 91. It being a Day of Humiliation, I was much encouraged to go on in my Calling, though we had many Adversaries, from Verse 11, 12, 13. Yea, though our Enemies were strong as Lions, as full of Venome as Dragons, as subtle and obstinate as Adders, (see Psal. 58. 4, 5.) yet the Angels have a charge to keep us in all our Ways: and the Promise is, That we shall trample them under our Feet.

I observed also in Reading Dan. 6. 23.—No hurt was found upon him, because he believed in his God.

September the 22d, As I was Reading in my Family, Psal. 146. 9. The Lord preserveth the Strangers, my Faith was strengthned. In Colechester I enjoyed much Peace and Security; but coming into a strange place, having none to shelter or speak for me, I judged my self to be in more danger: But this word, The Lord preserveth the Strangers, did help my dependance upon God.

October the 28th, Anno Christi, 1666. Being the Lords Day, I went to Preach at Manytree. That Morning the Lord gave me in that Promise, Isa 55. 12. Ye shall be led forth with Peace: It being a time of danger for Non-Conformists to Preach in Publick, this Promise was the more precious to me, and I was encouraged to go with the greater confidence. And I determined to Eye this Promise for the Future, when Probably I should meet with Disturbance.

December the 25th, 1665. As I was Reading Luke 6. I observed from Verse 11, 12. That when Christs Enemies were filled with Madness, and sought what they might do unto him, he went up into a Mountain to Pray, and continued in Prayer all Night. Hence I concluded, That it was my Duty to give my self much unto Prayer, as oft as I had Enemies that lay in wait to do me any hurt.

Within a Day or Two afrer, one of the Constables came unto me, and told me that his Fellow-Constable, when he had drunk somewhat liberally, told him, that there had been some Communication hetween him and one of the Deputy Lieutenants, about Presenting me at the Sessions for my Meetings. I thought upon the Text, Luke 6 11, 12. and went apart to Pray, when he was gone: And whilst I was Meditating on this, God brought into my mind that Text, Deut. 33. 12. The Beloved of the Lord shall dwell safely by him, and I was strengthned in my adherence to this Promise. And as I was pleading this Promise in Prayer, that passage was sent home to me: He shall cover thee all the Day long. And after I had been in Prayer, I considered Jacobs carriage, after he had wrestled with God about Esaus coming against him, he used means to appease his Brother: So did I to prevent trouble at the Sessions, and it pleased the Lord that I heard no more of it: For the Lord made me to dwell in safety.

January the 22d, As he was Exercising in his House word was brought him, that the Mayor and Aldermen would come; but being near the end of his Exercise, he soon concluded, and dismissed the Assembly. And presently a Constable came to him, and told him, that he was sent to dissolve his Meeting: But added, that p. 195he Blessed God, who had given him an Heart to come sometimes to it himself, and his Wife oftner. So that instead of doing him any hurt, he gave Glory to God, that inclined him to be a Hearer himself.

Octob. Anno Chisti 1670. He was presented in the Ecclesiastical Court for Preaching: but God incouraged him with the Word, Psal. 103. 31. And though his Adversaries got an Excommunication against him, yet God raised up deliverance for him, that the Court took it off, without his appearing or paying any Fees.

Yea, so far was he from forbearing to Preach for fear of sufferings, that being once perswaded by his Friends to forbear, many Souldiers being thereabout, who also had newly seised upon Mr. S. and imprisoned him; yet all that day, and the night following, was he under much despondency of Spirit, for missing such an opportunity of Service. But it was some stay to his mind, what he Read, Matt. 16. 20. whence he observed that the divulging of the most necessary truth, was at some times prohibited by Jesus Christ.

And he was further satisfied from Acts 16. 6, 7. whence he observed, that attempts to Preach the Gospel to some Places, may sometimes arise from the Holy Ghost. At another time, having missed an oppertunity of Service, he thought upon Psal. 52. 9. whereby he was convinced that he might praise God for the Providence thus attended with some afflicting circumstances.

Once a very zealous & active Persecutor of the Non-conformists had gotten a Warrant against him upon the Oxford Act, directed to all the chief Constables & petty Constables in the County to apprehend him, & accordingly an Officer, a Stranger came to execute it; who, being come near the House, he espied two Men, whom by their Apparel, he judged to be Ministers walking in a Field; the one was Mr. Stockton, the other Mr. Senior of Hackney. He hasted to them, and told them that he had a Warrant againt one of them, but he knew not which. Against whom (said Mr. Senior) against Mr. Stockton, said the other, let me see it said Mr. Senior? He shewed it, verily concluding that he was the Man. Some little Girls were nere, who coming to them, clinged about Mr Senior as if he had been their Father, which confirmed the Officer in his error. Whilst Mr. Senior read the Warrant, and the Officer was intent upon him, Mr. Stockton walked away, and when Mr. Senior saw that he was out of the Mans reach, he convin…ed him of his mistake. And by this good Providence he escaped that danger. And being thus secured by God through Faith and Prayer, he returned the whole Glory thereof unto God thus.

In Reading 2 Chron. 20. 30. the Realm of Jehosaphat was quiet: For his God gave him rest round about; God caused me to take notice, that my living in rest and quietness was the gift of God, and came to pass by his good Providence, and not from the privicy of the place where I lived, or from the peacable disposition of my Neighbours. I was thence also Instructed, what I should return unto the Lord for keeping me from the Hands of mine Enemies, and giving me Rest and Peace, from Psal. 30. 1. I will extol thee (O Lord) for thou hast lifted me up, and hast not made my Foes to rejoyce over me. And from Psal. 31. 7, 8. I saw also that Gods giving me Rest from them, should put me upon doing some special eminent Service, from 2 Sam. 7. 1, 2. 1 Kings 5. 4, 5. 1 Chron. 22. 17, 18, 19.

Thus with unwearied Pains and Zeal, in great Peace and Security, with Holy Rejoycing and Thanksgiving, did this Man of God fulfil the Course of his Ministrey.

Yet he did not satisfie himself with his Work of Preaching, but applied himself also unto writing, for the greater Service of the present, and future Generations: His Counsel to the afflicted, and his Scriptural Catechism, are already Printed: and tis hoped that some others may see the Light.

It pleased God in much Mercy and Faithfulness to give him a Meet-help, a most suitable Yoke-fellow, a very Prudent, Virtuous, and Gracious Gentlewoman, of a Worthy and Religious Family in Cambridg-shire, Mrs. Elianor Rant, Daughter of Roger Rant, of Suaff-ham, Esq; whom he Married within less than a year after his call to Colchester, who was a singular Blessing, Comfort, and Honour to him so long as he lived. Few there be to whom Solomons Commendations (Prov. 31. 26. &c.) doth more properly belong.

By her, God gave him six Children, whereof he left one onelyonly Daughter surviving. But upon the account of his own, and his Wives Wisdom, Grace, Gravity and Government; many were desirous to get their Children into his Family, p. 194duplicate page p. 195duplicate page p. 196(even those that were of different perswasions from him, both in Conformity and Non-conformity) for their better Education: In compliance wherewith he received some young Persons of the Female Sex, that might more properly belong to the care and inspection of his Wife. So that mostly he had a full Family; wherein, according to his Place he kept up his Authority over all under his Charge, but with so much Meekness, Prudence, and Gravity, that they all stood in awe of him, yet he was more loved than feared.

As for his Wife, whom he worthily honoured, and intirely loved, there never arose any Passion, or Dispute between them. He frequently conversed with her about the matters of her Soul: enquiring how the Case stood between God and her Soul: what burthens lay upon her Spirit: what grounded hope she had for Eternal Life, &c. helping, and encouraging her in the ways of Godliness.

The 9th. day of June, being the day of their Marriage, he never passed it over (if at home) without spending sometime with her in solemn Prayer unto God, and conference about the several pa…ages of his Providence towards them since they came into that Relation: In the conclusion whereof, he was always more affected with, and thankful for Mercies, then dejected, or cast down for afflictions, though he met with some considerable trials, not onelyonly in his Family, by the loss of so many hopeful Children, &c. but also abroad, and that from those that knew, and going should have practised better. It was his manner, not onelyonly in his more private, and secret retirements; but also in his Family Duties to commend her in perticuler to God, at the Throne of his Grace.

As for his Children, very early, even before they were past the lap, he himself, would be instructing of them in Gods Word, ordering them to get some Scriptures by heart, which best suited with their Childhood, and Capacity: Four of them died in their Infancy and Childhood, none having attained the full Age of five years; concerning whom he had much satisfaction as to their Eternal Salvation.

His first-born (a Daughter) attained to the Age of nineteen years, and then died; who had been so instructed by her Father, that before she was eight years old, she understood the Method of a Sermon, and if Preached by her Father, would give him an accout of the most considerable Heads and Passages therein, and before she was full nine years old, she would write a Sermon after him, without missing the Heads, with some considerable enlargements also.

About this time of her Age God suffered her to fall into sin in the open Acts, to the observation of others, which exposed her to the severe Rebuke of her Parents, which God was pleased to sanctifie to her conviction, and as she grew up, she quickly gave evidence of the truth of Grace, and power of Godliness, making progress therein beyond her years, having a very great love to the Ordinances, Ministers, and Servants of Christ: And she disembled her weakness and bodily infirmities, that she might not be kept from the publick Ordinances for the good of her Soul. She walked closly with God in frequent secret Duties, kept the Lords Days strictly; took special notice of the workings of Grace, and of sin, and of Gods providential dealings with her, which she recorded in her Diary: And under a long and mortal sickness, expressed a most Christian Patience and Submission to the will of God.

As for his Servants, so soon as they came into his Family, he instructed them; first in their Duty to God, and next in the Duty of their places, giving them. Scriptures for that which he instructed them in, requiring them to get those Scriptures by heart, which they were to repeat to him when he called for them.

In his Family, after his own secret retirements, wherein he read the holy Scriptures in course, and Prayed, Morning and Evening, first and last; his Family being come together, he began with a short Prayer, then to read a portion of Scripture, which also he oft-times expounded, and so concluded with Prayer. At Night he did the like; onelyonly adding, that every Child and Servant, should repeat a verse of the Chapter which he would open, and explain unto them. Frequently exhorting them to a Reverend demeanour of themselves, in the whole Worship and Service of God.

Once a week usually he did Catechise both his Children, and Servants. And once a fortnight, if some extraordinary occasion put him not by; he opened, and p. 197explained some Principle of Religion in a Catechistical way, which his Children and Servants were to give him an account of the next Fortnight. What Sermons they heard, either on the Lord's days, or upon other occasions, they gave him an account thereof as they could remember.

He kept private days of Humiliation with his Family, so often as his publick Imployments would give him leave; wherein he used to deal in perticular with every one, about the concerns of their Souls. He required all in his Family to use secret Prayer as well as to be present at Family Duties. If any of his Brethren came to visit him, he was not content to let him depart without Prayer. His House was an House of Prayer.

He was a strict observer of the Lord's Days, and took care that all under his Roof should do the same. He kept a severe watch not onelyonly over his Words, and Actions, but over his Thoughts also, not onelyonly when they were vain and sinful, but impertinent to the Holiness of the day, or of the Duties which he was about.

His Charity was no less abundant then his other Graces; which he accounted one of the best Characters of a Christian; and would say, and that he did not value a Christian by his great knowledg, and eminent Parts, but by his great Charity, and by his love to his Brethren: And herein he observed these Rules.

Towards those that were at variance one with another: He was an industrious Peace-maker, offering himself to interpose, to make up the breach, and taking Journies, when at a distance, in order to it.

Towards those that had difference with him about worldly concerns (from which he was not altogether free; though altogether innocent) when he suffered wrong by any, his care was, that they should suffer none by him, or his, either in word or deed; always practising himself and advising others, to return good for evil. He would make the best construction that was possible, of the words and actions of his Adversaries, often making mention of that Text, 1 Cor. 13. 5. Charity thinks no evil.

Towards his Friends his Friendship was hearty, ingenious, faithful, and open. He received them into his House gladly, entertained them liberally, conversed with them chearfully, simpathised with them in their Afflictions affectionately, and served them as he had occasion industriously.

Towards those that persecuted him and others for their Consciences, he observed Christ's command Matt. 5. 44. he affectionatly pittied them, and prayed for them daily; and when he heard any passionate expressions against them for their violence, he would be offended, and charge People to pray more earnestly for them, and to seek opportunities to do them good.

Towards thoe that dissented from him in the matters of God, he had a Spirit of meekness and forbearance, imbracing all with Christian love, whose Practice did not destroy their Profession of Christianity. At his first coming to Colchister, he found it a very divided place upon the account of divers perswasions among them: yet he so behaved himself with such Humility, Moderation, Tenderness, Brotherly-kindness, and Charitable Judgment; that they were generally united in their respects, and esteem for him. And tho he could not satisfie his Conscience so as to confirm, yet he judged many who did, to be very good Men, and had a real honour for them.

Towards the Poor, and such as were in streights, he was pitiful. and bountiful. He devised liberal things, and drew out his Soul to the hungry; wherein he observed Christ's Rule, Matt. 6. 1, 2, 3. This was one of his great secrets, he did industriously conceal his Charity all that he could.

The Widdow, the Fatherless, and the Stranger, the Sick and Sufferers, were all refreshed with his compassions. Though he offered to Preach freely at St. Jame's Church in Colchister, neither desiring, nor expecting any reward; yet the civility of the People did gratifie him for his pains: The greatest part whereof he disposed to Charitable uses.

By his own liberality, and by his stirring up others, he promoted the Education of some Poor Schollars, as were hopeful for the Work of the Ministrey.

In his last Will and Testament, out of Love and Zeal for the benifit and good of p. 198the Church, he hath bequeathed the best part of his well-furnished Library; even the best and choisest of them, to Gonvil and Caius College in Cambridge: As also five hundred pounds to be laid out by his Executrix, therewith to purchase a Freehold Estate, or an Impropriation, to be setled on the said College, for the maintainance of a Schollar and Fellow there for ever. Provided that such onelyonly shall be Elected as are Orphans, or the Sons of poor Ministers, of the best, and most hopeful Parts, tying them to the Study of Divinity, and the Ministerial Work, taking special care that they be well grounded, and established in the Orthodox Faith, and Reformed Protestant Religion; And in case he shall become corrupt in Doctrin, or Scandalous in Life, then after due Admonition, and Non-Reformation, his Place to be declared void, and another to be chosen in his stead, and none to enjoy it above Twelve Years.

Besides which he also bequeathed, in Case his only Daughter should Die before she came to the Age of One and Twenty Years, Twenty Pounds per Annum to be setled upon the College in New-England, for the Education of a converted Indian, or to any other that will learn the Indian Language, and will be a Minister to Preach unto them. And when he heard of that consuming Fire which turned the greatest part of New-Boston into Ashes, he sent thither freely, a considerable number of his Books, Entituled, Counsel to the Afflicted, to be destributed among the Sufferers.

He hath also given Twenty Five Pounds to other Charitable uses: which bequests he hath yet made with all due respect to his Family, not failing in his kindness to his Wife, or his tenderness as a Father to his Daughter, so ordering his Charity unto others; as with all securing to his Widow, and Fatherless Daughter, not only a Necessary, and Competent, but even a Liberal, and Plentiful means of Subsistance; reserving unto them the Rent of what he hath bequeathed to the College, during their Natural Lives.

In the last place, there is an account given (out of his Diary) of the Observations, and Experiences of himself, through which we may look into, the very frame and temper, the thoughts and affections of his Heart, which are largely set down by Mr. John Fairfax, in the Life of Mr. John Stockton; whereof, for brevity sake, I shall onelyonly give you the Heads.

His Observations, and Experiences, Jan. 10. Anno Christi 1653. These he continued during his abode at Cambridge, to the Year 1657. And at his removal to Colchester he intermitted it for a time: but resumed it again, in the Year 1662. and continued them to the Year 1676. And this he did that he might always have at hand before him, the manner and Method of Gods dealing with his Soul, the working of Corruption and Grace, his Lapses and Recoveries, his Combats and Victories over the World, Sin and Satan; His Perseverance and Progress in Holiness, the secret intercourse between God and his Soul; the withdrawings and returns of the Holy Spirit; the faithfulness of Gods Covenant; the truth of his Word sensibly felt in his Heart, Food for his Faith, encouragments for his walking with God, with experimental instructions how to comfort troubled Consciences.

It was his usual manner in Preaching to fore-see, and raise such Objections as troubled Souls usually make against themselves, and to solve them with much clearness and satisfaction; and many applications of such Souls were made to him in private as to a Skilful, Experienced, Spiritual Physitian, whose advice God prospered with his Blessing to the encouragment of the Faith, and hope of many doubting Christians which before walked in darkness; which are here published, not onelyonly as Instances and Demonstrations of that Spirit of Light and Grace, that power of Godliness which possessed, and governed his Heart and Life, and fitted him to be such a useful Instrument for the Service of Christ, and his Church, upon which account his Memory is worthily honourable, and pretious to all good Men. Especially for the Instruction, Direction, Relief, Support, and encouragment of others that are following him (though at a great distance) in that narrow way which leadeth unto that Life to which he hath attained.

Hitherto we have seen some things of his Conscience of Sin, and Duty, his Industry and Zeal for advancing the Glory of God; his Combats with the Flesh and Satan: his Love to Christ and his Church: his Spirituality in Religion: his longings and Breathings after God: his remembring God upon his Bed, and meditating p. 199upon him in the Night-Watches: His wise Improvement of the Holy Scriptures, His due fulfilling of all Relations: His Holy manner of living to God: From whence we may rationally conclude, That surely he gave this Diligence to the full Assurance of Hope. That he tasted the Consolations of God, and received the Earnest of Glory. That he walked upon the top of Pisgah in the Light of Gods Countenance, and in the sight of the Heavenly Canaan.

And this Priviledg the God of Peace and Comfort did not deny him. He was a Man, as of much Grace, so of much Peace; an Instance of that word, Psal. 119. 165. Great Peace have they that love thy Law. He received the Spirit which is of God: and knew the things which were freely given him of God, and rejoyced therein, 1 Cor. 2. 12.

As for his Conversion, (which to some who had lived long in Ignorance, Security, Sensuality, and forgetfulness of God, is very sensible,) yet he being from his Childhood restrained, and well inclined, it was not so remarkable to him. The most discernable part thereof, was, when he was a young Scholar in Cambridg: Nor did he then experience very notable Workings of the Spirit of Bondage; which occasioned some trouble to his mind, and he feared that his Humiliation was not deep enough: But he received full satisfaction from a passage in a Sermon Preached by that Eminent and worthy Servant of Jesus Christ, Mr. Richard Vinee, then Master of Pembroke-Hall.

He also said sometimes, that he was not much acquainted with those Ravishing Joys which some have felt; but yet had that Comfort and Joy in the Holy Ghost, which gave him good satisfaction.

He could not satisfie himself with the expectation, nor the apprehension of the immediate, sole Testimony of the Spirit, without the word, 2 Pet. 1. 17, 18, 19, 20, 21. But he would compare himself with the Word, frequently practising the Duty of Self-Examination, searching for those Graces, Dispositions and Operations in his Heart, which are promised in the Word, and to which the Promises are made, which the Spirit of God enlightned him to discern, and enabled him in a way of Argumentation, to infer thence his Interest in Christ, and the Covenant of God, for his satisfaction and Spiritual Consolation. And the Assurance which he attained in this Method, and by these means, he Recorded in his Diary, whereof I shall only give the Heads,

1. His Evidences of true and saving Faith.

2. His Evidences that he was one of Gods Servants.

3. His Evidences of the Pardon of his Sins.

4. His Evidences of his Interest in, and Union with Jesus Christ.

5. His Evidences that God was his God.

6. His Evidences of Gods Love to his Soul.

7. His Evidences of Gods accepting his Person and Services.

8. His Evidences of Eternal Life.

Thus walked this Eminent Servant of Jesus Christ, in the Fear of God, and in the Comfort of the Holy Ghost. Thus he Laboured to approve himself to God, to others, and to his own Conscience: Thus answered he his Profession, Run his Race, pressed forward to the Mark; and he hath left such a Name and Character behind him, as may worthily commend him, both as a Christian, and as a Minister, to the Observation, Honour and Imitation of most, if not of all that Read his Life.

He left some Manuscrips behind him; some of which he entitles, The best Interest: A Treatise of Glorifying God: The Cure of the Fear of Death. All which he well understood, not by Speculation only, but by Experience. He who had gained the best Interest, and could upon good grounds say: My Beloved is mine, and I am his. He who aimed at the best End, and Industriously pursued it, viz: The Glory of God: was doubtless so fortified with the Grace, Consolation and Covenant of God, as to Tryumph over the King of Terrors. Having the Testimony of his Conscience, that in Integrity and Sincerity of Heart, he had fulfilled his general and perticular Calling, and Served his Generation by the will of God, and having the assurance of Gods Holy Word for his Reward in a better World, it was no difficult thing for him to Die. He was so far above the fear of Death, that he seemed altogether p. 200unconcerned at it; as to the Terror of it, or Danger after it; and that both in Sickness and in Health.

In his perfect Health, considering the Evil of the Days wherein he lived, he would often say: 'Tis a good time to Die: I am content to Live, and willing to Die: To me to Live is Christ, I have no other Design of Life then to serve Christ. He Breathed out, with Greg. Tur…n. Domine, si adhuc Populo tuo sim necessarius, fiat Voluntas tuo. Desidero quietam; non recuso laborem. If God hath further Service for me to do, I am content to Live, and Labour; else I rather choose to Die.

Such clear apprehensions he had of the Glory of Heaven, and such full assurance of the Hope thereof, that (as he told a Friend) he looked upon all that this World could afford, as Dross and Dung compared with it.

As Death was not Terrible, so neither was it unexpected to him. He presaged long before it came. He told his Friend, who frequently conversed with him more then a Year before he Died, that he had apprehensions that he should not live long: And that, for some time past, God had inclined his Heart to Study how a Christian might get above the Fear of Death, and what he found to be his Strength and Comfort against that last Enemy, he had digested into a Method, which, for his own and others use, he had committed it to Writing: And at the same time, he laid an Obligation upon his Friend, (in case he survived him) to Preach his Funeral Sermon upon the Text, 1 Cor. 15. 57. as a Testimony of his affectionate and hearty Thanksgiving unto God, who gave him the Victory over the Fear of Death, through Jesus Christ our Lord.

He had a strong Constitution of Body; was very Sober and Temporate, and was then in his full Strength, and the Maturity of his Age, without any sensible Declining. His Natural Temper did somewhat incline him to Feavourish Diseases. And now a Feavor (having a Commission from God) seized on him, August the 31st, which Visitation from God he accepted with all Patience, and Holy Submission, casting himself on the Care, and resigning himself up to the Will of his Heavenly Father. His Disease increasing, and his Strength declining, he told some about him, That he had had some apprehensions that he should, and that he desired also (if God pleased) to have Died a Martyr, but now he thought he should not: Adding, God is wiser then I, and knoweth my weakness.

He discharged his Dying Office by Grave Exhortations, and Encouragements to seriousness in Religion, and a readiness to suffer for it. He directed his Speech especially to his only Child. He owned and confessed his Non-Conformity even to the last, as judging himself obliged thereunto in Conscience towards God: He Blessed God for his invaluable Gift of Jesus Christ to the Children of Men. He Blessed God who had called him to the Honourable Imployment of the Ministry of the Gospel, and had enabled him to be faithful therein; and had encouraged him with his Presence and Blessing under all the Difficulties thereof.

He Blessed God who had lifted him up above the Fear of Death. He rejoyced in the Peace and Testimony of a good Conscience, and Hope of the Glory of God: And after Ten or Eleven Days conflict with his Disease, which (after some hope of his recovery) suddenly and unexpectedly seised upon his Head, he quietly slept in the Lord, September the 10th, Anno Christi, 1680. and in the One and Fiftieth Year of his Age.

This was that Blessed Exit of this Eminent Saint and Servant of Jesus Christ, who might say to those whom he hath left behind, as his Dying Saviour did to the Daughters of Jerusalem, Weep not for me: I have Died in Peace; am entred into Peace; am at Rest in my Bed; have passed through Jordan, and am come into Canaan. I am beyond Sin and Sorrow, Trouble and Labour: Am come to the Heavenly Jerusalem, to an innumerable Company of Angels, &c. To that Eternal Sabbath that remains to the People of God.

May we not also add, Weep for your selves. You shall see my Face no more; enjoy Communion with me no more: You shall hear my Voice no more: I shall Dispence the Gospel to you no more. Ye shall come unto me, but I shall return unto you no more. Oh! what is the meaning of p. 201this dark Providence, that in such a Day as this, God should call from his Work, One so fully Instructed; so willing to serve him and his Church in the Gospel of his Son?

Whether God hath done this in his just Displeasure, for the unprofitableness unthankfulness, and itching Ears of those that enjoyed him. Or whether to warn us of some approaching Dreadful Judgment, from which he hath hid this, and many other of his Faithful, Able and Painful Servants in the Grave, it concerns us seriously to consider, and to lay it to Heart, Amen.