The Lives of Twenty-Two Eminent English Divines, Biography 22
The Life of Master Herbert Palmer, B. D. late Master of Queens-Colledge in Cambridge, who died Anno Christi 1647.
His Parentage.HErbert Palmer was descended of an ancient Family of that name, allied to divers other Families of note, of the Nobility and Gentry. His Father was Sir Thomas Palmer of Wingham in East-Kent, about six miles distant from Canterbury. His Mother was the eldest Daughter of Herbert Pelham of Crawley in Sussex Esquire. He was born at Wingham, and was there baptized, March 29. 1601.
His birth and education.He had the happinesse of a prudent and pious Education. His Father, beside his Piety, being a very wise man, and of a more then ordinary understanding, as well in State-affairs, as those of a more private concernment. His Mother, beside her Prudence and other accomplishments more then ordinary in her sex, was also eminently religious, and both of them exceeding carefull of his education. Himself also, being even from his infancy, much addicted to the serious study both of Religion and Learning, in both of which he had made more then ordinary Proficiency in a short time, and continued the exercise and improvement of them afterward.
The Symptomes of Grace and Piety began betimes to put themselves forth to the view and observation of others, as soon almost as the exercise and use of reason; so that we may not without good ground, esteem him sanctified even from the Womb.He was sanctified from the Womb. When he was about the age of four or five years, he would cry to go to his Lady-mother, That he might hear somewhat of God; So soon had these her Religious discourses, made pleasing impressions on his apprehension. Neither did these, and such like expressions of affection to good things soon vanish away, (as childish apprehensions use to do,) but continued and encreased, according as his years and the use of reason increased.
Hence was it, that even from a child, being asked at any time what course of life he best liked to follow,His early desires of the Ministry. whether to be a Lawyer, a Courtier, a Countrey Gentleman, &c. he would still answer, that he would be a Minister of Jesus Christ. From which, while some of
Mr. HERBERT PALMER.
his Friends (for triall sake) would seem to disswade him, as being too mean an imployment for a Gentleman, telling him that Ministers are hated, despised, and accounted as the off-scouring of the world, &c. he would reply, It was no matter for that; for if the world hated him, yet God would love him.
He was early acquainted with the Book of God,His frequent reading of the Scriptures. which he much delighted in, and read with great affection, (insomuch that while he was but a child, little more then five years old, he wept in reading the story of Joseph) and took much pleasure in learning of Chapters by heart. And here was laid the first foundation of that great exactnesse in the knowledge of the Scriptures, to which he did afterwards attain.
He had excellent natural parts, both intellectual and moral:His natural endowments. which as they were soon capable of being imployed, so they were soon set on work; his Parents vigilancy being such, that they suffered no time to be neglected.
He learned the French tongue almost as soon as he could speak English; even so soon, as that he hath often affirmed,His skill in the French. he did not remember his learning of it. And he did afterwards attain so great exactnesse of speaking and preaching in that language, together with a perfect knowledge of the state and affairs of that Kingdom, especially of the Protestant Churches amongst them, that he was often, by strangers, thought to be a native French-man; and did not doubt but to entertain discourse with any person of that Nation, for some hours together in their own language, concerning the affairs of that Kingdom, who should not be able by his discourse to distinguish him from a native French-man, but judge him to be born and bred in France; so well was he furnished with an exact knowledge, both of the Propriety and due Pronunciation of that language, and of the persons, places, and affairs of that Kingdom, and the Churches therein. A thing not often seen in one who had never been out of England.
When he learned the Latine tongue,His industry. with such other parts of learning, as younger years are usually imployed in at School, his diligence and proficiency therein was such, as produced both commendation and admiration. And while others at vacant hours, were following their sports and recreations, he was constantly observed to be reading studiously by himself; taking as much pleasure in good imployments, as others in sports; and counting that the best Passe-time, wherein the time was best passed.
His carriage towards his Parents, was dutifull and obsequious;His observance of his Parents. not only during his Minority, but even afterwards; which was very evident in that honour and reverend respect, which he continued to expresse to his godly aged Mother to the day of her death, which hapned not long before his own: being also a special helper to her in the waies of holinesse. And what he thus practised himself, he did frequently commend to others, being alwaies (though himself unmarried) a great asserter of Parental authority; as well from that great emphasis which God puts upon it through the whole current of Scripture, as from those remarkable judgments, which in Scripture, and in his own experience he had observed to be inflicted on disobedient and undutifull children, (whom, as he was wont to say, he had scarce ever known to escape some visible judgment for it in this life, though possibly otherwise godly persons,) as also from those unavoidable mischiefs, which do frequently ensue in Civil Societies,Despisers of Parents usually punished by God. where the authority of Superiours is vilified or contemned, and which (if well considered) will be often found to take their first rise and original from the contempt of Paternal authority.
His admission into the University.He was about the year 1615. admitted Fellow-Commoner in Saint Johns Colledge in Cambridge, where he continued his former diligence, as well in the exercise of Religion, as the improvement of his learning, both in his private Study, and in the performance of Exercises in the University and Colledge, notwithstanding the exemption which Fellow-Commoners in Colledges are ready to plead from the performance of them.
He is made Fellow of Queens Colledge.After that he had there taken the degree of Master of Arts, about the year 1622. he was in the year 1623. constituted Fellow of Queens Colledge in that University; where, although he were a Gentleman, that beside his Fellowship, had an estate of his own, and so had the lesse need in point of maintenance, to take that trouble of Pupils upon him;His care over his Pupils. yet (not satisfying himself, to take a place upon him, without performing the Office thereunto belonging) he took many Pupils, of whom he was more then ordinarily carefull, being very diligent both in praying with them in his Chamber, and instructing them in the grounds of Religion; as also keeping them to their studies, and the performance of disputations, and other exercises of learning, privately in his Chamber; beside the more publique exercises required of them by the Colledge, to the great benefit of those that were his Pupils.
He is ordained Minister.While he was Fellow of Queens Colledge, about the year 1624. he was solemnly ordained to the work of the Ministry, whereunto from a Child he had addicted himself; And about the year 1626, was called to the publique exercise thereof, as a Lecturer in the City of Canterbury;His call to Canterbury. where, for divers years, (notwithstanding the great oppositions he there met with, from such as were enemies to the power of godlinesse,) he did with much diligence and very great successe discharge that great work, to the spiritual edification and comfort of many yet alive, to whom his memory to this day is precious.
The occasion of his coming thither was this; Coming from Cambridge, The occasion of it.to give a visit to his Brother Sir Thomas Palmer at Wingham, he did at the intreaty of some Friends, preach a Sermon at the Cathedral Church in Canterbury, and that with so much true Zeal, and reall savour of Piety▪ as did much affect the godly hearers. The report hereof coming to the knowledge of Master Delme (a godly, faithfull, prudent and laborious Minister of the French Church in Canterbury) he made a journey to Wingham on purpose to gain a further knowledge of him, and acquaintance with him, (with whom he was already not a little in love from that good report he had heard of him, though as yet by face unknown to him;) and hereby not only obtained the knowledge of the man, but was also, by his gracious and savoury discourse and carriage, very much confirmed in that good opinion which he had before conceived of him. And this was the first foundation of that intire and Christian friendship, which with much spiritual advantage to them both,Friendship. was contracted between these two holy men, which continued and increased daily to their mutual comfort and contentment while they were both living, and the memory thereof is still precious to him that doth yet survive.
After this, before his return to Cambridge, having (at the request of Master Delme,) preached a second Sermon at Saint Georges Church in Canterbury, on a week day Lecture; the most godly and best affected in the City were more and more taken with him, and expressed great desires of enjoying his Ministry amongst them, if it might be obtained.
Hereupon Master Delme, with divers others, of the most considerable Gentlemen and Citizens, having earnestly sought direction from God in a matter of such concernment, did seriously advise about it; and being first assured of the concurrent desires of many others, did by letters and messages to Cambridge, signifie to him the desire of the godly in that City, that he would undertake to preach a Lecture amongst them.
This invitation after mature deliberation,His self-denial. he thought good to accept of, preferring the opportunity and probability of doing good in that populous place, before the hopes of preferment, either in the University or elsewhere, which, by reason of his many Friends and acquaintance great at Court, and otherwise, he might likely have attained unto; holding steady to that resolution (which long before that time he had taken up,) so to imploy himself as might probably most promte the Work of God, whatever became of his own advantages. Whereupon a License being obtained for him from George Abbot, then Arch-bishop of Canterbury, authorizing him to preach a weekly Lecture on the Lords day in the afternoon at Alphage Church in that City; He left his Fellowship in the University, and undertook this work.
During his abode in this employment, he did much edifie the people there, both by sound doctrine, and exemplary conversation.He was a burning and shining light. His Sermons were altogether spiritual and heavenly, full of solid explications and practicall applications of the Word of God; whereby the City was well seasoned as with savoury salt, and much preserved from those innovations and corruptions, both in doctrine and Worship, which in those dayes were creeping on apace; by reason whereof that leven of formality, which many of the Cathedralists were promoting, (who preferred pompous Ceremonies before the power of Godlinesse) was stopped from spreading and corrupting so much,His opposition to innovations. as otherwise it might have done. For although he was not then perswaded of the unlawfulnesse of the then Government, and some Ceremonies then in use, yet he could no way approve of the corrupt innovations coming on in those daies, but did with all wisdome and zeal reprove them, countenancing goodnesse and good men.
And by this means, he was a great stay and comfort to the godly Ministers and People, both in the City and Countrey thereabouts; whom, not only by his publique preaching, but by many other Christian and Ministerial helps administred in his more private Converses, he did very much incourage in true Piety. Of this very many Families in that City had great experience, (even those of the meanest ranke,His humility.) whom he was wont often to visit as he had opportunity, that he might the better understand their spiritual condition; admitting also persons of all ranks freely to apply themselves unto him as they had occasion, and to partake the benefit of private Conferences, Prayers, and other religious exercises; as likewise affording his Christian advice and direction in cases of difficulty, especially to distressed Consciences; in which cases, by most of his prudent and judicious resolutions, he was frequently consulted with as a kind of Oracle. And that not only during his abode at Canterbury, but wherever else the Providence of God did cast him. And herein he had an excellent ability and dexterity, and took much delight in it.
He doth good abroad.And his assistance he afforded not only to those of that City, but also to many of the most Religious Families of the Nobility and Gentry thereabouts; to whom, both by his personal Converses, and his Christian letters (of which there are great numbers yet to be seen) he afforded frequent directions and encouragements in the waies of God; And particularly the Noble Family of Thomas late Earl of Winchelsey, then Vicount Maidstone (whose abode at that time was at the Mote, a place near Canterbury:) the exemplary Piety of whose Family, and the several Noble Branches thereof, was by him in a special manner promoted.
The like assistance he afforded also to those of the French Congregation in Canterbury, whom, by reason of his exact knowledge in the French language, he was able to edifie very much. And (at the request of their Eldership) he did twice preach to them in that language upon most solemn daies, to the great ashonishment and edification of the whole Congregation. It is memorable, that an ancient French Gentlewoman, when she saw him the first time coming into the Pulpit, being startled at the smallnesse of his personal appearance, and the weaknesse of his look, cryed out (in the hearing of those that sate by her) Hola! que nous dira cest enfant ioy? Alas, what should this Child say to us? But having heard him pray and preach with so much spiritual strength and vigour, she lift her hands to heaven with admiration and joy, blessing God for what she had heard.
Yet this his faithfull discharge of the Ministry was not without some opposition.He is opposed by Sectaries and Cathedralists.
On the one hand those of the Separation, and such as were inclineable thereunto, were somewhat troublesome to him; but could get no advantage upon him, nor did prevail any thing (while he remained there) upon his hearers.
On the other side, the Cathedralists and their favourers did oppose him, fearing (it's like) lest his godly courses and exact walking might be a blemish to their loose and carnal waies. And therefore, though the greatnesse of his birth, and friends hindered them somewhat from prosecuting of him, as probably they would otherwise have done; yet once some of the chiefest of them adventured to exhibit Articles against him: But his cause and answers proved such, as that they were not able to hurt him.
After three years, or thereabouts, his Lecture there was put down by the Dean and Arch-Dean,His Lecture put down. (upon certain instructions then on foot concerning Afternoon Sermons) to the great grief of his godly hearers. But not long after, upon the petition of great numbers of the Gentry and Citizens, to the then Arch-bishop, by whose License and authority he had been before established, (accompanied with the laudable testimony of divers Ministers, concerning his Orthodox doctrine, and unblamable conversation, together with the concurrent testimony of ten Knights,He is again restored. and divers others of the Gentry and chief Citizens) he was again restored.
During his continuance here, he was twice (by the procurement of his Friends at Court) likely to be made one of the Prebendaries of Canterbury. Tentations prevented.But he often admired and praised that Providence of God, that his Friends endeavours therein succeeded not; seeing himself by this means delivered from many temptations and dangers, which had been incident, if he had been one of that company; they being afterward, by the succeeding Arch-bishop, mainly set on work, for the setting up and promoting superstitious innovations.
After some years he was removed from Canterbury, His remove to Ashwel.to the Vicaridge of Ashwel in Hartfordshire, whereunto he was presented by William Laud the late Arch-bishop of Canterbury, (which in his defence before the House of Peers in Parliament, was by the Arch-bishop insisted upon as one of his good deeds:) to which he received institution, Febr. 7. 1632. where he continued the same zeal, diligence and care, which he had before discovered, in seeking the good of those souls that were committed to his charge.
Beside his constant preaching there twice every Lords day,His great pains he did also very frequently preach to them occasionally, as any opportunity was offered; not willing to let passe any advantage offered of doing them good. Wherein, notwithstanding the excellency of his learning,His humility and sincerity. whereby, if he had sought it, he might have attained great applause and admiration (even from knowing men) in the ostentation thereof: yet he chose alwaies to condescend to the capacities of his hearers, with so much plainnesse, as that (if possible) he might be understood by all,His prudence. even those of the meanest capacities, as being most studious, both for the matter and manner of his preaching, how he might be able most of all to profit those that heard him. And on this ground upon any emergent occasions he endeavoured as much as might be, to sute his matter thereunto, that so the Word of God, and the Providence of God, might one adde edge unto the other, and both joyntly become the more effectuall. And for the same reason he did the more approve of Funeral Sermons, for that at such times the minds of men, especially those more immediately concerned, are thereby rendred the more pensive and serious, and so the more fit to take impression by the Word. On the same ground also was he carefull to observe the advantages of sicknesse, or any other considerable afflictions, because his Admonitions and Christian Aavice, were like to be at such a time the more effectuall, when God had as it were softned their heart, and opened their ear to hear.
His diligent catechizing.He was also carefull by Catechizing, both in publique, and at his own house, to instruct in the Principles of Religion, not only the Children and youth, but even those that were more aged, in case he discerned them ignorant, and such as stood in need thereof; and yet not so as might expose them to scorn and reproach, but so as might most conduce to their edfication in the knowledge and fear of the Lord. To which end he had prevailed with those of his Parish, at lest the farre greater number of them, and those the most considerable persons to concurre with him in it; by sending their Children and Servants constantly to be catechized on the Lords day before the Afternoon-Sermon (some of whom he catechized publiquely in the Congregation, and others more privately in his own house, either by himself or his assistant,) that so that the publique Catechizing might neither be too tedious, nor intrench upon the time allotted for other exercises, as Praying, Reading, Expounding, Preaching, &c. nor yet the examination of others for want of time, be wholly omitted; as also by their own endeavours at home to help on this work: and likewise to contribute their assistance in perswading others to the same willingnesse. As for those who were more eminent, but yet needed instruction, he laboured both by his own perswasion, and the perswasion of others, to work in them a willingnesse to repair to him in private at convenient times, that by conferences with them, and friendly discourse in a familiar and gentle manner, he might bring them to such a sufficiency of knowledge, as was necessary for their own salvation.
And the better to perswade people to a willingnesse▪ thus to receive instruction, he used by way of encouragement,His prudent charity. (especially to those of the meaner sort) to give Bibles to such as could read, and five shillings in money to such as could not, when they attained such a measure of knowledge, as that they were judged fit to partake of the Lords Supper. And such like rewards and incouragements he used to bestow on others, as he saw occasion; furnishing them with Books and writings, and otherwise encouraging them according as they should manifest their diligence in gaining and improving their knowledge. All which the generation to come, and the children yet unborn, may have cause to blesse God for, when they shall receive the benefits thereof, communicated from their Parents to them, while others do as much as in them lies, intail ignorance and atheism upon their posterity.
And because he found it difficult to bring those of shallow memories and weak capacities to understand and remember the Principles of Religion; discerning, that many who could not distinctly repeat the words, did yet understand the matter, and therefore were not to be despised or discouraged; and others of firmer memories, who were able to learn the words, did understand little or nothing of the meaning of them. He did therefore study how he might best remedy both those evils; and to that end, framed several forms of Catechisms in divers kinds. At length he pitched on that form, as the most convenient that he could think of, which he published in print, intituled, An endeavour of making the principles of Christian Religion plain and easie, His Cathechism.of which so many thousands have been printed of late years, and entertained with great approbation.
His method therein is this; The answers which make up the main body of the Catechism, are so many distinct Aphorisms, or entire Propositions in themselves, without dependance on the questions to make the sense entire, containing in themselves a brief module of Divinity: And to that purpose so much of the question is still repeated in the answer, as is necessary to make the sense perfect. Hereby the Learner is freed from a double inconvenience: The one is, that where the sense of an answer is imperfect, he is forced to charge his memory with learning the question also, or else to make use either of this Book or anothers help to ask the question, that so that answer which he hath learned may be perfect sense. The other is, that aptnesse in the Learner to misapply the answer to a wrong question, when he learns only the predicate of the Proposition without the subject. Both which inconveniences are in this way in a great measure prevented.
Another thing mainly considerable in his method, is, That beside the main questions and the answers thereunto, there are also annexed divers explicatory questions, which require no other answer but Yes, or No; which without any further charging of the Learners memory, do direct him to the distinct observing of what is contained in the principal answer, and so to the understanding thereof; whereas otherwise heedlesse Learners are apt (Parot-like) only to learn the words without at all regarding the meaning of them. The same also will help to direst a weak memory the better to recite the larger answer, if he be first required to give a particular answer to those expository questions; for he will then have nothing to expresse in the full answer, beside what in the Preparatory questions had been suggested to him. As for example; Quest. In what condition was man created by God at the first? Was he made miserable? (No) or very happy? (Yes) In the Image of God? (Yes) In what condition then was man created by God at first? Answ. Man was created at the first in a very happy condition, in the Image of God.
And in the same method he intended to digest the lesser Catechism, composed by the Assembly of Divines at Westminster, (and authorized for publique use) if God had afforded him life to have seen that Catechism perfected, to the compiling whereof he had contributed no small assistance; which therefore since his death hath been performed, by one that was intimate with him, and fully acquainted with his resolutions in that particular.
His manner of reforming disorders.As he was carefull thus to instruct his flock, so was he also vigilant to prevent disorders and misdemeanours amongst them in point of practice, wherein he was not contented to use his own personal endeavours, but did also ingage his Parishioners to contribute their best assistance thereunto; whereunto they did oblige themselves in divers excellent Resolutions and Agreements, concluded by common consent amongst them, and subscribed by their hands, viz. for the preventing and punishing of Drunkennesse and Tippling, of prophaning the Lords day, and of other prophane, or disorderly demeanours during the exercise of Divine Worship, by sleeping, talking, playing, &c. as likewise of stealing, and pilfering, of prophane swearing and cursing, of rayling, slandering, whoredome, fighting and quarrelling, disobedience to Parents and Governours, and of other misdemeanours in whom soever.
His Family-Government.In the religious ordering of his own Family, he was extraordinary vigilant and painfull, that it might be, so much as in him lay, a Garden without weeds; and that those which were under his roof, might either not perish, or at least not through his default. Indeed his house was a School of Religion, such as there are very few to be found; insomuch that it was counted a great happinesse to live under his roof, under the constant enjoyment of so much means for the souls good.
It was his great care to entertain none in his Family, but such as were either truly godly, or at least willing to be instructed and educated in the waies of God, and who would be ready and willing to attend the exercises of Gods worship, both publiquely and privately, and to avoid all scandalous conversation.
It was his constant practice twice every day to pray with his Family, not allowing any to be absent; at which times he read to them some portion both of the Old and New Testament.
He was carefull also to catechize his Family twice every week, and likewise on Friday and Saturday to require an account from them of the Sermons preached the Lords day before, which he then repeated to them.
Having also while he was at Ashwel, the Sonnes of divers considerable persons of the Nobility and Gentry, sojourning in his house, for their better education in Religion and Learning, (he maintaining in his house an Assistant as a Schoolmaster to teach them) he required of them the like account in Catechizing and Repetitions as of his own Servants.
He had also daily after dinner and Supper, a Chapter read by one of those Gentlemen in course, and he whose turn was to read, was required also, after he had read, to repeat the substance out of his memory, which (by constant custom) they had attained an ability to perform very exactly; after which, himself used to go over the same briefly, by way of exposition, of what appeared difficult, and noting such observations as were most obvious from the most remarkable passages therein.
Beside this, he required his Servants, after every meal, to have some portion of Scripture read amongst them, or some other religious Treatise concerning the fundamentals of Religion, if not both.
But especially he was carefull that all his Family should sanctifie the Sabbath-day.His care for sanctifying the Sabbath. And therefore would not suffer them to be imployed late the night before about their ordinary employments, but caused them to conclude sooner then on other daies, that they might not be indisposed for the duties of the day following. And on the Sabbath-day it self, he was carefull that they should not spend any part of it idly or vainly, no not in any unnecessary preparations of diet or the like, but only of such and so much as was necessary for their comfortable refreshment that day; but would have them spend the whole day, as much as might be, in the exercises of some of Gods Ordinances publique or private, insomuch that if he had known of any dish that had kept any of his Servants from attending on any of Gods Ordinances, he would not at all eat of it.
And for better sanctifying of that day, he was carefull not only to perform private duties in his Family, as Prayer, Reading, Singing of Psalms, &c. but also when he went to the publique Ordinances, he would call all his Family together to go along with him, that so they might be present at the whole service of God. And in the evening of the day, he required of all his Servants, and the young Gentlemen that sojourned with him, an account of such portions of Scripture as had been read in publique; and as they recited particular passages thereof, he gave brief expositions of them, and observations from them: pressing them to meditate in private of what they read in publique.
Beside this great care of his Family joyntly, he was also frequent in giving them personall counsell and direction in the waies of God, exhorting them also to a daily constancy in the performance of secret duties between God and their own soul; so that scarce any Family enjoyed the like measure of helps and encouragements in the waies of holinesse.
His secret duties.His exact walking in his own secret devotion, was also exceedingly remarkable. He was a man much in Communion with God. Twice every day he was in secret a Suiter at the Throne of grace, and oftener, as any particular occasion was offered. He would very seldome enter upon any businesse, either by himself, or with others,His Fasting, and Prayer. without first seeking of God. He did often set daies apart to humble himself in secret by Fasting and Prayer, according as either publique or particular occasions did seem to call for it; as also in solemn Thanksgivings, for mercies received, whether publique or private.
His frequency in reading the Scriptures.He was a great admirer of the holy Scriptures, and much conversant in them. Beside what he had read and heard read in his Family, he did every day by himself read some part both of the Old and New Testament, and constantly write short meditations and observations of what he so read, whereof he hath left behind him many hundred sheets written in Characters. He was so throughly acquainted with it, that it was not easie to name a Chapter or Verse, but he would presently tell the Contents of it; nor to name any sentence of Scripture, but he could presently tell in what Chapter or Verse it was to be found; yea scarce any particular case could fall out in practice, but that he would be able to shew what particular directions the Word of God afforded for it.
He was also a great observer of Providence, and took special notice how the Providences of God, and the Word of God did constantly agree together. And from hence was able to give very near conjectures, if not evident Predictions in many cases, what God was about to do, and what good or evil events were likely to come to passe; by comparing present actions with such Precedents as he had before observed, in the Providences and Word of God in like cases.
His holy and exact walkingAnd as he was very carefull to order all his actions according to his constant rule, of being subservient to the glory of God, and the good of souls, so that even his journeys, visits, discourses, and familiar converses with any, were not undertaken without a special eye hereunto; so did he also keep an exact account of what had passed; every night before his going to rest, setting down in writing (in his usuall Character,) the passages of that day, what actions or discourses he had been employed in, what successes or disappointments, what mercies or crosses he met withall, and what failings he observed in himself: all which he surveyed again at the end of every week, writing down the chief passages of that week, and so from monethmonth to monethmonth, and year to year. By means whereof he was throughly acquainted with his own spiritual condition, and did maintain a constant exactnesse, and even walking with God; which being so uniform, might perhaps by some be the lesse observed. Like as the Sunnes constant brightnesse, produceth lesse admiration, then some blazing Starre that appeareth but for a while; men usually more admiring things rare then excellent.
In the year 1632. he was by the University of Cambridge made one of the University-Preachers (having proceeded Batchelor of Divinity about two years before;) A matter of honour and repute,He is made University-Preacher. rather then of profit or employment. Yet also a matter of some advantage in some cases, (as times then went) being in the nature of a general License, whereby he was authorized to preach, as he should have occasion, in any part of England.
At the beginning of the Parliament, he with Doctor Tuckny were chosen Clarks of the Convocation for the Diocesse of Lincoln; wherein he might have been of good use, in case it had been thought fit to have kept up that kind of Assembly, to have acted in concurrence with the Parliament as in former times.
In the year 1643. he was by authority of Parliament called to be a Member of the Assembly of Divines at Westminster. He is made a Member of the Assembly.And after some time he was chosen one of the Assessors, appointed to assist the Prolocutor in case of absence or in infirmity. He was in that Assembly an eminent and very usefull Member, exceeding diligent and industrious, being very rarely absent,His conscientiousnesse therein. and that not but upon urget unavoidable occasions. For, as he accounted it an honour to be employed by God in so publique a service for the good of his Church: so he did conscientiously attend upon that service, prefering it before all other more particular employments, which though in themselves excellent, yet ought, in his judgment, to give way to this.
And he was exceeding well fitted for this employment,His fitnesse for it. having a clear and ready apprehension, and firm and vast memory, a solid and steady judgement, and a good ability freely to expresse himself. In matters of deliberation, he manifested much Integrity and Christian wisdome. In matters of debate, whether about Doctrine or Discipline, he discovered a great sagacity in searching out the true sense of Scripture, a clear judgment and strength of reason, as well in the accurate stating of questions for debate, as in confirming the truth, and dissolving objections against it; in all, a great measure of Zeal, Piety, and Prudence. All which procured him much reverence and esteem from the rest of his Brethren, who judged his presence and assistance a very great help and advantage in that difficult work, and bewailed his death as an unspeakable losse.
His judgment was known to be for the Presbyterian Government; the principles whereof he did throughly understand, and was well able to defend, and was a very great Instrument for the promoting of it. Yet in two things he was at first much unsatisfied, but by the debates of the Assembly, did professe himself to receive satisfaction in both.
One was concerning the Divine-Right of Ruling Elders, wherein he afterwards professed himself to be fully convinced, principally by the Authority of those two places, 1 Cor. 12.28. (where Government is attributed to a distinct rank of Officers inferiour to Teachers,) and 1 Tim. 5.17. which implyeth, that there are other Elders which rule well, beside those that labour in the Word and Doctrine.
The other was, whether there ought not to be continued in the Church, an Office superiour to that of Presbyters. For although he did not approve of the Hierarchical Government, as it was of late established and practised amongst us: yet since it is confessed that Timothy and Titus as Evangelists did exercise an authority, superiour to that of ordinary Presbyters, the object of which authority seemed to be of perpetual continuance in the Church, it seemed probable to him, that the Office also of an Evangelist was no extraordinary Office, but ought to be continued in the Church. But hereunto he received satisfaction, principally from hence, that in case the Holy Ghost had intended the continuance of that Office, he would withall have described the work and qualification of persons fit for it, and taken some course for continuing the succession thereof, as is done in that of Elders and Deacons. But this being wholly omitted, there being no more extant in that kind, then concerning the Apostolical Office, the power of working miracles, &c. We are rather to esteem that Office as well as these to be extraordinary, and but of a temporary continuance, expiring with the persons.
Being thus called to attend the Assembly at Westminster, he was forced to intermit his ordinary residence at Ashwel;His care for Ashwel in his absence. being able only to exercise such a care of them as might be performed at a distance, and by making occasionall journeys thither, as he could obtain opportunities so to do. But the ordinary exercise of the ministerial work there, together with the profits of the place, he put over to a godly and able Divine to be performed in his absence; reserving notwithstanding his title to the place, not knowing how soon God might afford him opportunity of returning to them again.
But, unwilling to intermit the exercise of his ministerial function, he did at first preach occasionally (as he was requested,) in divers Churches in and about London, resolving notwithstanding within himself, to accept of the first invitation for the constant exercise thereof.
And accordingly being soon after requested by the Inhabitants of Dukes-place in London, His choice to Dukes-place.(who were then destitute of a Minister) to preach amongst them, he did (notwithstanding their inability to raise any considerable maintenance,His self-denial. which might invite him) willingly accept of that employment.
This work he performed amongst them with much faithfulnesse and diligence, as well by publique reading,His great pains. praying and preaching amongst them twice every Lords day, and at other times as there was occasion; as also by administring the Sacraments, publique catechizing, and exposition of such portions of Scripture as were read amongst them. And likewise (as his custom had been elsewhere) by more private acquaintance and converse with them in their Families, whereby he might be the better able to afford personall directions, and other Ministeriall helps to them, as their severall conditions might require. All which was performed with so much Meeknesse, Wisdom and Piety, and accompanied with such a blessing from God, as that it made a very great impression on them for their good, and was entertained by them with much approbation and affection, they being ambitious who should enjoy most of his heavenly Communion and Converse with him.The success of his Ministry. Hereby in a short time he did much good, informing such as were weak in knowledge, setling and confirming such as were wavering in judgement, and stirring up in all, both by his heavenly conversation and Christian counsell, a greater zeal and affection to the power of Godlinesse. By reason of all which, during the time of his abode amongst them, they were much preserved both from errours and divisions, whereunto the great unsetlednesse of the times did much expose them.
Afterwards,His call to the new Church. when the new Church at Westminster was perfected and made fit for use, the Inhabitants there, and others concerned therein, did sollicite him to undergo the charge of that great people; with profer of far larger maintenance then he received or could expect from those of Dukes-place, where the inhabitants were neither many, nor of great estates.
But this consideration did not at all prevail with him, who regarded the work more then the wages. For although he doubted not but that both Religion and Reason did require a comfortable and honourable Maintenance, for those that laboured in the work of the Ministry, yet for his own part he was willing to deny himself in that particular, if so doing might ought advance the service of God.His temperance. And so much the rather, because being a Batchelour, and intending so to continue, nor at all addicted to pompous vanities or excesse, either in diet or apparell (in both of which he was exceedingly moderate) he had the lesse need of being sollicitous in getting riches; being indeed much more sollicitous, how (like a faithfull Steward,) to dispose and order what he had, as might be most for Gods honour and service, then how to encrease it.
Yet his removall being much pressed upon grounds of another nature, he did at length, with the approbation of those concerned on both parts, refer the whole businesse to be considered and concluded by divers of the most eminent of his Reverend and godly Brethren of the Assemby, whom he did frequently desire that they would wholly lay aside the consideration of maintenance, and deliver their judgements, what in other considerations they judged to be most agreeable to Gods will and his duty.
Hereupon, they to whom the matter was referred, meeting severall times about it, and hearing at large what could on either side be alledged either for his stay or removall; after mature deliberation had, and seeking of Gods direction, agreed in this opinion; That setting aside the consideration of maintenance,The reasons of his removall. yet in regard of the eminency of the place, the greatnesse of the Auditory, the many persons of quality residing there, and the great need of Instruction to those of an inferiour rank, many of whom were extreamly ignorant, (by reason that amongst such a great multitude of people, there had in former times been so great a scarcity of preaching) together with divers other reasons of the like nature, which did more then countervail what could be alledged on the other hand, his obligations also to those of Dukes-place not being absolute; they judged it most fit that he should leave Dukes-place, and undertake that charge at Westminster.
To this their resolution he consented, yet with his Proviso, that those of Dukes-place should be first provided of an able faithfull Pastor to succeed him, being utterly unwilling to leave them destitute. And accordingly, having prevailed with Master Thomas Young, (since Doctor in Divinity, and Master of Jesus Colledge in Cambridge) to succeed him there, (who was also an eminent Member of the Assembly of Divines, a man of great Learning, of much Prudence and Piety, and of great ability and fidelity in the work of the Ministry) he took his leave of them: commending them to the grace of God, and the pious care of his Successor, taking on him the charge of those belonging to the new Church in Westminster, and was the first Pastor of that Church.
He was here also eminently faithfull and laborious in the work of the Ministry, in publique praying, reading, expounding, preaching, administring the Sacraments, and Catechizing, with brief and clear expositions and confirmations of the Principles of Religion, as had been his usual custom in other places. Beside which he was also one of the seven, that by appointment of Parliament did carry on that daily morning Lecture at the Abby-Church;His great pains insomuch that it seems almost a Miracle, that so weak a body as his should possibly be able to do so much as constantly he performed, continuing oft-times to speak in publique for the space of six or eight hours on a Sabbath day, beside much time spent in more private exercises of Prayer, Repetitions, &c. in the Family; yet when his Friends have perswaded him to favour himself, judging so much pains to be more then his body could endure; his answer hath been, that his strength would spend of it self, though he did nothing; and it could not be better spent then in Gods service. Yea so far was he from favouring himself in this kind, that it was a rule with him which he constantly observed, never to favour himself by declining any ministerial exercise which he was requested to perform, whether in publique or private, if he were possibly able to perform it.
Neither did he here neglect, what had been his constant practice elsewhere, to afford private assistance to those of his flock and others, as he had opportunity. But what time he could gain from the more publique affairs of the Assembly, he spent for the most part in such duties, not willing to lose an hour which could be imployed in doing good. And to this end, beside that free accesse that persons of all ranks might have unto him, as they had occasion, he spent much time in visiting them at their own Families,A faithfull Pastor. to communicate some spiritual good to them, as Directions, Consolations, and Encouragements in the waies of Godlinesse, which made his company both very profitable and much desired. Hereby, besides others, very many considerable Families of the Nobility and Gentry, (whose practice commonly hath a great influence on others) were much quickned and encouraged in the visible practice of Godlinesse, and the power of Religion, which thereby was much improved; And very many of them are ready upon all occasions, to professe that it was their great happinesse to be acquainted with him, and bewail the want of it as a great losse.
And he was hereunto the more fitted,His amiable and affable disposition. for that he was naturally of a loving and friendly disposition, of a courteous and affable carriage, even towards inferiours, and those of mean rank, especially if he discovered in them signes of grace, which he did honour and encourage wherever he met with it. Hereby he gained much love and and affection from those with whom he had to do, by reason whereof his counsel and advice became so much the more effectual. To which we may adde also his birth and education, and his frequent conversing with persons of quality to whom he was related and allied, by reason whereof he was well qualified with such accomplishments as might render his company acceptable, as knowing well how to give due respect to all, according as their places and conditions did require, and yet to preserve the honour and reverence of his Ministerial authority, which by the gravity, sobriety, and holinesse of his conversation was much secured.
In that great Ordinance of the Lords Supper,His care about the Lords Supper. which in these broken and distracted times hath been in many places wholly laid aside, and in many more too much neglected; he took much care and pains how to manage that great businesse, so as might be neither displeasing to God, …o justly offensive to good men.
The difficulty herein hath been, not concerning the manner of administration, which hath afforded lesse matter of contest, but concerning the persons that might be judged fit to be admitted thereunto; which to many men hath been attended with so much perplexity, that they have apprehended a necessity of a totall intermission, and almost an impossibility of administring it in any tolerable manner; while on the one hand they durst not promiscuously admit all, (by reason of the great ignorance of many, and the prophanenesse or loosenesse of others;) and yet on the other hand saw not how they might be able, (for want of authority) to debar any: waiting still for the setling of a Government in the Church, whereby this great difficulty might in some measure be removed: Till at length, through the long intermission of this Ordinance, those that are prophane and carnal begin to slight and scorn it, and those of better principles do too much abate in their affections to it. And that remedy, which though late, began at length to be applyed, in beginning to establish the Presbyterian Government, hath been yet so much defective in want of power, and so much exposed to scorn and reproach, which men of prophane or turbulent spirits cast upon it, either from principles of prophanenesse, or of seperation, or from some other bitter root which renders men unwilling to have their lusts, errours, unlawfull liberties, or licentious courses in any kind whatsoever to be checked or contradicted; that the matter is now almost grown desperate, unlesse God will be pleased in special favour, to afford some unexpected remedy.
Herein this holy man did manifest a great measure of singular Prudence and Piety, wisely avoiding both rocks; Neither totally omitting the Celebration of the Sacrament, nor yet promiscuously admitting all unto it, but those only of whose sufficient knowledge he was assured, and whose lives, so far as he could discern, were unblamable and free from scandal. And this he did, not only of late years, but even formerly, from his first undertaking a Pastoral charge; at what time it may well be supposed, to have been a thing both of greater difficulty and danger, then of late years, to keep off unworthy receivers from prophaneing that holy Ordinance.
In order hereunto, his first work was to abate, as much as might be, the number of ignorant people, by perswading them to be willing to receive instruction, which with much care and diligence he was ready to afford unto them, in such waies as is before expressed: Which though a difficult work, was yet carried on with so great successe, through Gods blessing on his endeavours, that in his Parish of Ashwel, where was no small number of people, he had in a short time brought them to so great a measure of knowledge, that there was either none or very few, either old or young, who were not able to give a good account of the principles of Religion.
When he had once prevailed with them to be so far sensible of their own ignorance, as to be willing and desirous to learn, it wa… then no hard matter to perswade such of their own accord to forbear a while, till they had attained so much knowledge as that they might come with comfort; which would be so much the sooner, according as they were more diligent in labouring to attain knowledge.
When they had attained a competent measure of knowledge, if their lives were answerable, and not obnoxious to just exception; or at least, they willing to redresse what was amisse, and ready to follow such good advice and directions, as were given them for the ordering their conversations aright towards God and man; there was then no reason why they should be longer debarred, but rather such good beginnings cherished and encouraged, yet with cautions frequently inculcated to beware of hypocrisie and formality, and not to rest in these beginnings, but to presse forward to perfection.
But in case they did either obstinately refuse Instruction, or notwithstanding their knowledge, were scandalous and incorrigible, or such as in point of conversation he could not judge fit to be admitted to that Ordinance: Then probably they would either be found such as were obnoxious to such scandals as might endanger a more publique prosecution, and so curst not be refractory; or else by the conviction of their own consciences, when the danger of unworthy receiving should be laid open to them; or by friendly perswasions from himself or others: or by the reverence and awe of his holy and grave carriage, and ministerial authority, backed with the concurrence of others amongst them, eminent for worth and Piety; or for fear of being shamed in case they should be openly reproved or refused in the face of the Congregation, or upon some other the like consideration, would be perswaded to forbear in case he judged them as yet unfit to be admitted to that Ordinance. So that scarce any whom he judged utterly unfit, have ever peremptorily pressed upon him to partake of it. And by these means, even in times of greatest danger, was he able to avoid the mixture of prophane and unworthy persons at the Lords Table.
Hereunto his naturally courteous and affable disposition did much conduce, whereby he could with the more ease, gain accesse, both to the persons and affections of all sorts of people: together with an excellent mixture of meeknesse and courage, which being managed with singular Prudence, and indefatigable industry, enabled him happily to carry on that difficult work, which might otherwise seem almost insuperable.
And by the same courteous and prudent carriage, he obtained a like interest in the affections of his people both at Dukes-place and Westminster: Insomuch as those who were fit to be admitted to that Sacrament, were either otherwise sufficiently known to him, by his conversing with them, or else would willingly upon that occasion approve themselves to him, both in point of knowledge and conversation; And others who were unfit, nor cared to attain a fitnesse for it, would rather of their own accord forbear, then venture the hazard of being refused; By means whereof, himself and some hundrds of godly persons who did communicate with him, could with great comfort joyn in that holy Communion and Fellowship.
On the 11 of April, He is made Master of Queens Colledge,in the year 1644. he was constituted Master of Queens Colledge in Cambridge by the Earl of Manchester, then employed by Ordinance of Parliament, for th… reforming of that University.
He had a great influence upon the general Reformation of that University, and by his advice and counsell did very much help forward that work, exciting also, and encouraging others therein, notwithstanding the difficulties in the way that were represented as almost invincible▪ and did improve all that interest which he had, both in that Noble and Religious Earl of Manchester, and in the Assembly of Divines (who were to give their approbation to all such as should be put into the places of such as were ejected in that University, whether Masters or Fellows,) that all possible care and circumspection might be used, that such only as were both learned and religious, might be commended to, or approved for those places, lest, in stead of those that were cast out, others as bad as they should succeed them, as well in their vices as their places.
His Government of the Colledge.But more especially in reference to that place, to the Government whereof he was designed (whereof also he had formerly been a Fellow) it cannot easily be believed how exceeding circumspect he was, how cautious and wary in the choice of those who (as Fellows) were to joyn with him in the Government, that they might be learned, pious, and unanimous. The happy effect of which care, in so quiet and peaceable establishment of that society, as could not easily be expected in so troublesome a time, was, to the great astonishment and amazement of all, even of those that hated them; and hath had a very great influence upon that happy and flourishing condition thereof ever since. What his aime was in that place, did continually appear by his constant expressions and Prayers, which sounded of nothing more then the advancement of Religion and Learning: And he was as true to those expressions in his continued endeavours and actings.
His first and main care was, the advancement of Religion and practical Piety; knowing that where this took place, a conscionable improvement of time, in other things could not well be wanting. This made him extraordinary sollicitous for the constant presence of the whole society at the publique Worship of God; which he did carefully look to, when he was present amongst them, and was usually one of the last things he gave in charge to all the Students,His care to promote Religion there. when his more publique employments at the Assembly called him away, and whereof he was very inquisitive in his absence. He took care also for the constant instruction, not only of the young Scholars, but likewise of all the Colledge-Servants in the principles of Religion. The exercises of Common-places or Sermons in the Chappel, which had formerly been in use, only in Term-time, he caused to be continued weekly all the year. Besides which, when he was present in the Colledge, he did frequently himself, either preach or expound Scripture to them. He also took special notice of the several conversations of the particular persons in the Colledge, as well by his own inspection and observation while he was present, as by faithfull informations in his absence; and was frequent in giving them personall counsell and direction in private. Consonant hereunto was also the care of the particular Fellows, who beside the instruction of their Pupils in Learning, caused them to come to their chambers to Prayers every night, and to repetition of Sermons on the Lords day. By all which the practice of Religion was much promoted.
His next care was for the advancement of Learning,His care to advance learning which he endeavoured to promote by his frequent exhortations and encouraging all to diligence in their studies, and conscionable improving their time and opportunities; as also by requiring the constant performance of publique exercises by persons of all ranks; and exciting the Fellows to a diligent inspection, as well joyntly over the Colledge in general, as severally over their own Pupils in particular for the same ends.
On the same ground also he took care to have the Colledge-Library furnished with good Authors▪ giving considerable summes of money for that end, and perswading others also to do the like; And some dues payable to the Colledge, which formerly used to be employed in feasting, were by his means converted to a better use, in buying of such Books, which might feed the minds, both of the present society, and those that shall succeed.
He bestowed also a considerable part of his profits there,His charity. upon the yearly maintenance of poor Scholars, and at his death he gave a considerable summe of money for the same purpose, to be disposed of by the present Society to such as stood in need.
Indeed his resolution was, that so long as he was hindered from residing constantly amongst them, by reason of his attending on the Assembly at Westminster, he would not be a gainer by the place; but whatsoever profits he received more then would defray the charges of journeys and other expences occasioned by it, he would bestow some way or other for the good of the Colledge.
In elections to places of preferment in the Colledge, he was exceedingly carefull that they might be bestowed on those that were most deserving: and to that end, he did,His prudence. with the unanimous consent of the Fellows, make a Decree, that in all future Elections, none should be admitted to a Scholarship or Fellowship in the Colledge, till they did first approve themselves for Learning by a publique triall or examination, for two or three daies successively in the audience of the whole Colledge, which hath already produced very good effects for the improvement of Learning in that Colledge, and more are like to ensue. In case any sollicited him for preferment of their Friends, his constant answer was, that if they were found to deserve it better then others, they should have it; but if otherwise, they must expect to go without it; and his actings were so exactly consonant hereunto; as indeed in all things his resolutions, words and actions were so exactly consonant, and kept so perfect harmony as is seldom seen: whereas in many, their words are more then their intentions, and their actions lesse then their words.
In his converse with the Fellows, it was his great care to preserve unanimity, that as well Elections as all other affairs of the Colledge, should be carried on by a universal consent; so that if in the proposal of any thing, there were any dissent, his usual manner was to defer the determination of it, till every one should see reason sufficient to concur with the rest; and was himself as ready to hearken to any argument produced, though contrary to his present sense, which he would either fully answer or yield to it: so that scarce any thing was over-ruled meerly by plurality of suffrages, but all with universal consent; and nothing more ordinary, then for all differences to be quite reasoned down.
In his absence from them, his mind was still present with them; being more throughly acquainted with all the affairs of the Colledge, and more carefull of them, then most Heads of houses are when they are present. For by reason of that sweet harmony and agreement betwixt himself and the Fellows, he had constantly faithfull intelligence of all affairs, and did communicate his counsel and advice therein; making the good of the Colledge, (as he was wont to call it) his Magna cura, by reason whereof that Colledge hath flourished in a very eminent manner: And I may safely say, without prejudice to any; that scarce any Society in either University, since the late Reformation, both for the general improvement of Religion and Learning, and the unanimous harmony amongst themselves, have been comparable hereunto; yea so great was that unanimity and reciprocal affection, between him and the Society, that scarce ever any Head of a Society was taken from them with more general sorrow.
Beside what hath been already said, much more might be added, concerning the worth of this eminent Servant of God; much of which hath been already penned by himself in that small Tractate, Of making Religion ones businesse, together with the Appendix, applied to the calling of a Minister, (which with other small Tracts are printed together with this title, Memorials of Godlinesse and Christianity.) wherein you may read a true Character of his thoughts, as well as his actions, of which I shall only adde this; That his constant practice was so exactly consonant to the strict principles,A true Nathaniel. that are there expressed, as can hardly be believed by those that have not seen it.
He was a man indeed of a very publique spirit, and wholly laid himself out for God:His zeal. And therefore, though he were ready to deny himself and condescend freely, where his own interest was only concerned; yet was he zealous and tenacious in things that concerned Gods glory, reserving his heat to encounter sin.
Hence was it, that notwithstanding his natural meeknesse, he acted in the things of God with much courage and resolution; As in those free and resolute expressions of himself (yet with humilty, meeknesse, and sobriety) in preaching at the Cathedral Church at Canterbury, in presence of the Dean and Prebends, wherein he spared not to set before them such things as were notoriously amisse, (yet for the most part expressing in Latine what did chiefly concern them, that they might take notice of it, not the people;) which, though it procured him some trouble and opposition, yet he did not for that abate of his courage and resolution. In like manner, when he was to preach at the Bishop of Lincolns Visitation at Hitchin, he went thither with a resolution to speak fully and freely against the corrupt innovations then in practice,His courage and faithfulnesse. whatever might be the issue; and did accordingly perform it, though he were sensible of the great danger of so doing. The like resolution he manifested in the question about the Sabbath, when opposition was made against the Perpetuity thereof, and the Morality of the fourth Commandement, a matter wherewith his heart was deeply affected, as being an high affront to the Majesty and Authority of God; the thoughts whereof seemed to be continually in his mind, as was evident by his prayers, discourses, counsels and endeavours; and particularly by that elaborate discourse, which he, in conjunction with that Judicious, Learned, and Pious Divine Master Daniel Cawdrey, published to the world, entituled Vindiciae Sabbathi; (the latter parts whereof were long ago fitted for the Presse,His vindication of the Sabbath. and want but invitations of publishing, which might encourage the Stationer to undertake the charge.) And therefore when reading the Book for Sports on the Lords day, bowing to the Altar, reading the Service-book there, &c. were urged, he was most resolute against them, resolving rather to lose all, and suffer any thing then to comply therein, and with that resolution went to the Arch-bishops visitation at Welling held by Sir John Lambe, A special Providence.where yet he found, beyond expectation, rather a connivance at him, then an enforcement thereof. And the like he did concerning the Convocation-Oath in the new Book of Canons, in the year 1640. which he vigorously opposed, and took a great deal of pains in evincing the unlawfullnesse thereof.
It is well known also what freedom and faithfullnesse he hath used in reference to the publique affairs,His faithfulnesse. as well in his ordinary Sermons at the New Church, the Abby, and Margarets in Westminster, (to which places the greatest number of Parliament men did usually resort,) as in those by special order preached to one or both houses of Parliament, (some of which are to be seen in print) where he spared not to declare fully and plainly what God expected from them, and freely to reprove what was amisse. For (as he was wont to say) he did not in that place preach BEFORE them, (ut coram Judice) but TO them (authoritativè) as by Commission from God, and how much soever they might be superiour to him in other regards, yet he was in that place superiour to them, as acting in Gods Name; and therefore would not be afraid to speak whatever was the Will of God that he should tell them, notwithstanding any displeasure or danger which might by this means befall him for so doing.
And upon this consideration, we may look upon it as a wise Providence of God, so seasonably to take him away a little before those great transactions about the change of Government; which were so directly contrary to his deliberate and setled judgment, that he would certainly have thought it his duty to Speak much more then others would endure to Hear. For although his judgment was clear for the lawfullnesse of Defensive Arms (which was the Parliaments case, as it was first stated) as doth fully appear in that Treatise, entituled, Scripture and Reason pleaded for Defensive Arms (wherein himself of all others had the greatest hand:His judgment about the King.) yet was as peremptory against Offensive Arms, or attempting the Kings life, whose person he judged sacred and inviolable, and hath oft expressed himself to that purpose, that in case this should ever come to be the question (which he hoped he should never see) he thought himself bound in conscience by speaking, preaching, and otherwise, to oppose it to the utmost of his power, whatever danger he might incurre by so doing; which zeal of his, though at that time he were like to have prevailed very little with men otherwise resolved, yet it might have proved an occasion of much hurt to himself, and therefore God in wisdom and mercy thought good to excuse him that piece of service.
He was in his conversation a man of much temperance and sobriety; In his diet he abstained from strong drink altogether;His temperance, and sobriety. Wine he drank very sparingly, so far forth only as the necessities of nature did require, and did usually content himself to eat but of one dish at a meal, and that none of the daintiest, even when he had more before him. In his apparell he did neither affect to be gay nor costly, but decent, nor to spend time in needlesse curiosity in dressing. As for Recreations, he scarce used any, but in stead thereof refreshed himself with the Christian converse of Friends; accounting time so precious, that he would redeem it not only from sports, but from sleep also so far as the necessities of nature would permit.
His liberality and charity.He was neither wastfull nor covetous, but very liberall; doing many acts of charity (beside what hath been mentioned before) to such as stood in need; bestowing plenteous relief, according as he was able, both by his own hands and the hands of others, so that those who received it knew not oft-times whence it came. And when that eminent work of charity was on foot in Cambridge, while he was Fellow of Queens Colledge, whereby divers young Scholars, who were forced by reason of the wars to fly out of Germany, especially of the Palatinate, were sent for hither and educated partly in the University, and partly under able and godly Divines in the Countrey, whereby they might be fitted to do God and their Countrey service (when God should give them opportunity to return) having here been educated in the knowledge of our language, and the way of practical Preaching, which hath been no where more eminent then in England, (which work succeeded beyond expectation) he was one of the great actors therein, and did contribute liberally thereunto. The like assistance also he afforded to divers Hungarians, Transilvanians and other strangers, who came over into England for the same reason.
The time of his sicknesse was not long;His last sicknesse. for having spent much of his natural strength in his constant labours in the service of God, there was the lesse work for sicknesse to do; His deportment therein was holy and heavenly; His humility, faith, patience, and submission to Gods Will, eminently appearing from time to time, and his discourse full of heavenly expressions till the time of his death.
Not long before his death, when one had read to him the 38 Chapter of Isaiah, (having then some little hopes of his recovery) and ready to go to prayer, he desired him to stay a while that he might pray first, which he did briefly, (as his weaknesse would permit) but very fully, both for himself, the Kingdom, the Church of God, and all to whom he stood in any relation; The heads whereof were soon after written as near as might be in his own words, so far as the memory of those that were then present could call them to mind.His Prayer before death.
First blessing God for his goodnesse the night past.
Blessed be God that hath been so good to us this night.
Then praying in behalf of himself.
Great God, heal the sinfulness of my nature.
Pardon all my transgressions.
Take from me a heart of unbelief, that I may not depart from thee the living God.
Deliver me from tentation.
Accept of Jesus Christ for me.
Teach me to improve all Providences.
To live upon the Promises.
Let Christ be my life.
O Lord, let me never shrink from thee.
For the good of the publique.
Lord turn the heart of this Nation, and all our hearts.
Turn the heart of the King.
Sanctifie the Parliament and make them faithfull.
Blesse the Assembly, and make them faithful and upright with thee.
Let not the Army do unworthily, but what thou would have them to do.
Blesse all the Ministers.
For other Nations.
Lord do good to Scotland, and the Churches in France.
Blesse New-England and forrain plantations.
For the places to which he was related.
Lord provide a faithfull man for Queens-Colledge.
A faithfull man for this place (New-Church in Westminster.)
A faithfull Pastor for those in the Countrey.
For Friends and those about him.
Lord, remember all those that have shewed kindnesse to me, and have taken pains with me, and recompence them. Thou hast promised that he which giveth a Cup of water in the name of a Disciple, and he that receiveth a Prophet in the name of a Prophet, shall have a Prophets reward
Afterwards (having forgotten to crave a blessing upon somewhat given him to take, he prayed, Lord, pardon my neglect and forgetfulnesse of thee; and deliver from tentation, and the evil of tentation. Thou art holy if thou shouldst forsake us; Our Fathers trusted in thee and were delivered. Lord glorifie thy name in my poor spirit, and let none of thy people ever see me shrink from thee for Jesus Christ his sake.
Being spoken to, to cast the burden of his sicknesse and pain upon God, he answered, I should do very unworthily, if when I have preached to others, that they should cast their burdens upon God, I should not do so my self.
His death.In these and many other the like Christian expressions, he did manifest the same savour of holinesse even to the time of his death, which had been constantly discovered in the time of his life. He departed this life, Anno Christi 1647. and of his age 46. having served God faithfully and painfully in his generation, being a very great Instrument of much good, and an excellent pattern for imitation. His body lieth interred in the New-Church at Westminster, and his memory yet liveth in the minds of those that knew him.