The One Necessary Thing to be Sought, Dialogue 2

The One Necessary Thing to be Sought · Dialogue 2

p. 12DIALOGUE II.

THe late communing we had at our former meeting together, (which I hope may not want ſome fruit) puts me to follow this advantage of our preſent converſe upon a further account, for clearing ſome of the moſt weighty concernes of Chriſtianity; and notto loſe time, the firſt propoſal I make is this?

QUEST. I.

How it is demonſtrably clear, that there are two contrary States, to which the whole race of mankind belongs; a ſtate of nature, and that which we must be entered into by grace; yea, that the new birth and that marvellous change by converſion makes a Chriſtian to differ from the rest of men, not in degree, but in the kind and nature, no leſs than the ſtate of man here is above the beaſts.

ANSWER. It is not ſtrange, though ſo great a truth ſhould be marvellous to our thoughts, upon any ſerious converſe therewith, but ſuch cleareſt evidence hath the certainty of this from the Scripture, and lyes ſo cloſs with the whole thereof, as I am ſure, they muſt quite the Bible, and this together; whilſt theſe are ſo undeniable, even to our ſenſe. 1. That one Chriſtian cannot beget p. 13another; and how far this new life by grace is above nature, or the poſſibility of ſecond cauſes, which no arguments, or perſuaſives of eloquence by moral influence conld ever effectuat, but is the immediat work of the Spirit, and forming of a new Creation by the Word of the Goſpel, in the naked ſimplicity thereof. 2. How clear is the truth of this marvellous ſtate of grace by ſo viſible a reality of the effects and operations thereof; as to change an impoiſoned nature, and take off that imbred averſion to ſpiritual things; the ingrafting of the Word by a ſecond impreſſion of the Law written upon the heart and inward parts, whereby it is transformed into the ſame image; yea ſuch convincing effects, as a living Chriſtian may be as diſcerneable, as one being a living man, by ſignes and marks peculiar to his kind. 3. Is it not known with the furtheſt evidence, the truth of a vital ſcent and air with ſerious godlineſs, which no fair ſhew in the fleſh, or any profeſſion can poſſibly counterfeit; no more than the greateſt Artiſts could paint the ſweet ſwell of the violet and roſe, or make a dead picture to breath and move. 4. You may ſee the reality of this ſtate, whoſe native tendency is to move upward to its original, as naturally as the ſparkes goe upward, in love, deſire, and a feeling intercourſe then with him; yea with ſuch a ſupernatural inſtinct, which is no leſs marvellous and evident, than that of the young child moving toward the breaſts. 5. It is ſuch a ſtate, where you may ſee the moſt diſcerning of men in a natural condition know not, nor can underſtand what belongs thereto, or what theſe felt-enjoyments of God and his workings on the ſoul are, or their being brought near to his reconciled face in Chriſt, and laid under theſe warming beams; no more than the beaſts of the field know what belongs to the ſtate of man, which is ſo high in its kind above them. 6. Such a ſtate alſo, as needs the continued breathings and influences of the Spirit of life, to keep it in any vigorous exerciſe, no leſs than the parched p. 14ground hath need of the rain, without which it is dried and languiſheth; yea ſuch as you know hath its food, delights and griefs peculiar to its own nature, with which ſtrangers cannot intermedle.

QU. II.

But ſince it is too évident that the most of men and ſo many of notable gifts and endowments know nothing what belongs to that ſtate you ſpeak of, or what is further than the condition they are in by nature: Oh! is that natural ſtate, ſo very dreadful and affrighting as you ſeeme to underſtand or that none poſſibly can be ſaved herein, whilst not ſo groſs and corrupt as others?

ANSW. You know what account the Scripture hath given of this, and how exact a pourtraiture is there of ſuch a ſtate in its true ſhape and colours; and if men will but credit their own eyes, let them but firſt look in on themſelves, and then abroad upon the World, and I am ſure ſuch muſt ſee, that the face does not more anſwer to its own reſemblance in the glaſs, than this deplorable ſtate of nature, without renovation by grace does anſwer that marvellous and clear diſcovery of the Holy Ghoſt in the written Word, thereof; and oh! is it not an amazing, and horride ſight, when ſuch is the ſtate of nature, as 1. Neither can nor will receive the things of the Spirit of God, 1 Cor. 2: ver. 14. But what ever uſe theſe ſeeme to have of reaſon, in the things of a man both natural and civil, yea in the theory of religious things; yet neither knowes, nor can ſavour what ſpiritual truths are in themſelves, and their own nature. 2. Where you ſee ſo ſtrange an enmity and imbred alienation from the life of God, with a continued byaſs and tendency againſt Holineſs, Gal. 4: ver. 29. Where no private quarrel, or perſonal intereſt giveth riſe thereto: Yea thus how no enmity is more deep and fixed againſt the Goſpel, than that which followes a poliſhed and refined nature. 3. It p. 15is not only the Saints, who have each an unregenerat part within, but a natural conſcience is enforced to witneſs how ſin is attended with ſhame, and a making themſelves vile thereby, yea ſuch, as none can put on their cloaths in the morning, but may have an account of the fallen ſtate of man. 4. From whence are theſe warres & fightings without, and theſe impetuous boilings of envy, wrath and revenge within? Are they not from the luſts of the fleſh, Jam. 4: ver. 16. Yea ſuch eager graſpings after that baite of carnal pleaſure, even whilſt they know the imbittering ſting which inſeparably followes thereon? 5. And what do theſe ſtrange conflicts, and contrary tides, with which men are ſo oft hurried and rent in pieces, as with wilde horſes, betwixt their judgment and will, which once were in a ſweet league, ſuch as even heathens were conforced to ſee and confeſs, that if the mind of flagitious men were laid open, it ſhould be ſeen how they are cruciated and puniſhed by their own ſins, and as the body is rent and torne by torture, ſo is the mind, by cruelty, envy, luſts, and paſſion, with theſe inordinate deſires and perturbations within? Oh! what do thoſe meane, if you will but come near to conſider this ſo ſad and amazing a ſight: Are they not a viſible tranſcript of black nature, whereinto man is fallen? 6. And what a horride thing muſt that be, that ſhould be capable of ſuch contempt of the Holineſs of God, and ſo inſenſible of its own vileneſs and pollution, yea ſuch as renders men under the greateſt advantage of all accompliſhments of gifts whether moral or natural; yea the greateſt of men, who are ſtrangers to a renewed ſtate, to be the vileſt & baſeſt part of the creation? And O what a dreadful ſight will ſuch once be to the Saints and Angels, when the ſinfulneſs of ſin, and the ſhame of their nakedneſs ſhall be then ſhewed forth?

QU. III.

Though I am inforced to aſſent to ſuch clear & undeniable evidences of that deplorable ſtate men are p. 16in by nature, whilſt though it cannot be hid yet how little is it conſidered, or laid to heart? But oh! is there ſo indiſpenſible a neceſſity of Holineſs and to know the inward power thereof on the ſoul and of a new life begot in us by regeneration as none can be poſſibly ſaved and ſecured from everlaſting wrath without this whilst there is ſuch abounding light in theſe times. yea a viſible adherence, and aſſent to the Doctrine of Christ by many who may be ſtrangers to this?

ANSW. I ſhall but offer ſome grounds to clear the abſolute and peremptor neceſſity of this you ſeeme to queſtion, and then leave you to judge thereanent, when you have once brought them near your thoughts. 1. Though our right and claime to an eternal glory muſt alone be by the righteouſneſe of Chriſt, and is not founded on Holineſs, yet it is as true, we have none without it, for without this hath the God of truth by his Word and faithfulneſs enſured, that none ſhall ſee his face. Hebr. 12: ver. 14. nor without the new birth, that it is poſſible to enter into the Kingdome of Heaven, Joh. 3: ver. 3. 2. It is ſure, without this, mens hope of the glory which is to come can leane upon no other ground, but that the Holy God muſt ceaſe to be faithful and true, and reſcind his everlaſting decrees and purpoſe, for complying with their ſins, Eph. 1: ver. 4. Who hath choſen us in Christ before the foundation of the World, that we ſhould be holy and unblameable before him in love. 3. If there can be no reconciling of Heaven and Hell, then without this can none enter into that bleſſed ſtate where is the perfect enjoyment of God; ſince there is an amazing inconſiſtence with the nature of the things themſelves, how ſuch could poſſibly dwell there, who were never made meet to he partakers of that inheritance of the Saints in light by a new nature, Coloſſ. 1: ver. 12. 4. And what a ſtrange contradiction to reaſon is this, for to think they are approaching p. 17to glory, if it be not in the way to grace, or that ſuch can love that in another World, which they now ſo viſibly hate, or can thus own any true deſire or hope of that bleſſed ſtate, who have ſuch a natural and imbred averſion to the begun enjoying of it here, in the life and work of Sanctification. 5. It is ſure that our eternal life in glory muſt be begun in that new life, which is by grace formed here in the ſoul; nor can ſuch ever poſſibly expect to enter that Kingdome which is above, where the Kingdome of God in ſome meaſure is not known within here, which conſiſts in righteouſneſs, peace, and joy in the Holy Ghoſt, Rom. 14: ver. 17. Though it is ſure alſo, that grace, and grace alone muſt ſum and cloſe all our accounts, yea that the whole of practical Godlineſs muſt reſolve there, I live, yet not I, but Chriſt liveth in me, and the life I now live in the fleſh, I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himſelf for me, Galat. 2: ver. 20.

QU. IV.

I confeſs it is not eaſy, except men turne reſolutely Atheiſts, to debate this Truth, but oh! what should it meane, that ſo few can be ſeen in earnest in ſuch a throng of profeſsed Chriſtians, with that excellent ſtudy of Holineſs, who yet come the furthest length in an aſſent thereto, and what might most help for this end?

ANSW. It is irreſiſtible grace which alone can make this effectual. But I ſhall offer ſome few enforcing motives for ſo great and neceſſar a ſtudy, with this one deſire, that you might but in earneſt think thereon, when alone. 1. That it is more excellent and deſirable to exerciſe grace, than to enjoy comfort, when the more ſharp and ſearching conflicts this meets with for trial, the more fruit and gain is going to the fore here and for ever; Yea are not the moſt remarkeable aſſaults and trials of a Chriſtians life ſome of his greateſt opportunities for p. 18ſowing to the Spirit, Ga. 6: ver 8. and being faithful to their meaſure and talent, Matth. 25: ver. 15. Yea ſuch, wherein our bleſſed Head, in the truth of his grace in them, and marvellous power thereof, hath ſo conſpicuous a triumph in each of his people, which ſhould be accounted a gain to ſuch, beyond the ſaddeſt loſs they can ſuſtaine otherwiſe. 2. That not the leaſt act, or exerciſe of Holineſs, and whatſoever hath been done for the Lord can be loſt, but ſhall be had in remembrance, and abide for ever, in its eternal reward; yea nothing of the Chriſtians work in doing, or enduring, their ſecret wreſtlings againſt ſin, the reſiſting of temptations, mortification, and patience for the name of Chriſt, when moſt hid from the eyes of men, ſhall be forgot by him who ſees in ſecret, to meet them once and for ever, with their Maſters acceptance, well done, &c. Matth. 25: ver. 21. in the fulneſs of joy, and their being rewarded before the Angels and all the Redeemed. O who would not run, though all the way ſhould be through thickets of briars and thorns, who have ſuch a joy and hope ſet before them? And that here is no doubtful or conjectural thing, go to the Scripture and ſee what is ſo expreſly ſhewed, 2 Cor. 4: ver. 17. For our light affliction which is but for a moment (whereby the Chriſtians Sanctification is both tried and exerciſed) worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory, 1 Pet. 1: 7. That the trial of your faith being much more precious, than the Gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praiſe, and glory, and honour, at the appearance of Jeſus Chriſt: and Rev. 14: ver. 13. And I heard a voice from Heaven, ſaying unto me, Bleſſed are the dead, who die in the Lord, from hence forth: Yea ſaith the Spirit, for they reſt from their labour; and their works do follow them; They go not before, ſince it's the blood of Chriſt which only can do this, and make ſure the Chriſtians entry into that bleſſed Land: But they ſhall aſſuredly follow, and p. 19abide for ever before the Lord. 3. And is not Sanctification the higheſt excellency that humane nature is capable of, & no leſs marvellous than our redemption by Chriſt from eternal wrath, in having the ſoul thus ſubdued by grace, & to be made partakers of the Divine Nature? O how great and aſtoniſhing a thing is it, that the ſeed & principles of Holineſs in the Chriſtian ſoul ſhould be preſerved amidſt ſuch continual aſſaults of corruption within, & theſe temptations that are without, as a ſpark of fire in the midſt of waters, which impetuouſly run to quench the ſame; yea that ſuch a party, as the Devil, the world and the flesh, by which the moſt of mank ind is ſo viſibly enſlaved, and kept in chaines, yet thus m ade to fall in their greateſt ſtrength, before the truth of Holineſs, in the meaneſt of the Saints, though nothing here for them to boaſt in of themſelves, but in the power of Chriſt thus reſting upon them, 2 Cor. 12: ver. 9? That day, O bleſſed day! is approaching, when this Scripture ſhall be fully underſtood, which I have ſome ti mes thought on, as a truth of greateſt weight, 2 Theſſ. 1: 10. When he shall come to be glorified in his Saints, and to be admired in all them that beleeve: Which is not only to be admired by them, but in them: for what he hath wrought and perfected in them, as well as done for them. 4. Is it not known and tried, that without Holineſs in its lively exerciſe, all aſſayes for inward peace or tranquillity of mind, and that compoſure of the affections, which is both ſo comforting & beautifying of a Chriſtian, will be in vaine? and oh! what does remain, if this be not underſtood, what a preſent and ſenſible reliefe is here in Love, Humility, Meekneſs, Patience and Hope, to the ſaddeſt diſtempers of the mind? Pſal. 1 19: ver. 165. great peace have they that love thy Law, and nothing shall offend them. That whilſt Satan is at the furtheſt at work to faint and cruſh the Chriſtian in his journey homeward: yet can he only reach a bruiſing of their heele, who are thus ſecured by the whole armour of God, from a thruſt at their vital p. 20parts, Eph. 6: ver, 14. and therefore it is remarkeable, that there is no piece of armour there given for the back, but only to ſuch as withſtand and reſiſt, nor to thoſe who flie. 5. Is not the fruits of Holineſs that peculiar Revenue, which Jeſus Chriſt calleth from his followers here, to adorne the Doctrine of the Goſpel, and ſhew his grace towards them has not been in vain? And are not theſe ſuch fruits which can only be brought forth in the ſeaſon thereof, a ſeaſon that is ſhort, and for all eternity will not recurre again? 6. It is ſure, nothing is ſo lovely to raviſh the ſoul with the glory and excellency thereof as this, were it ſpiritually diſcerned; to ſee and admire that infinit purity, righteouſneſs, truth and love ſhining in the great patterne Chriſt himſelf, and what a marvellous luſtre the reflection hereof hath, even on his followers here on the earth, in ſome begun conformity to his glorious image, whilſt not one glance thereof in truth, (what ever be of a falſe shew) is to be found in the whole world beſides. Oh were it believed, how much of Heaven might be enjoyed here by a greater length in the ſtudy of Holineſs, and what inexpreſſible joy, peace and ſerenity of Spirit doth aſſuredly wait thereon; what ſweet facility and delight is thus reached in the Chriſtians work, when their motion lyes from the inward principles of a new life, yea that it is ſure, the meaneſt this day is by grace called up to a higher ſtate, than that of the greateſt Monachs of the earth, and if there were no greater intereſt and preferment to be looked after than what the world can beſtow on any, we could not eaſily know what were deſireable here in being men.

QU. V.

Since theſe truths are to the furthest convincing and clear, and that it is ſure, this is the great buſineſs I have to follow in the few dayes I am to be upon the earth, to be aſſured of an eternal bleſſedneſs; I would in earnest know, what are the most clear and undeniable marks from the Scripture, of a being in p. 21Chriſt, and the certainty of converſion, that I leane not my peace here on ſome falſe ground, when it is ſo amazing at what rate many now own themſelves to be Chriſtians; for if I be deceived thereanent, and go with the multitude; Oh then I am deceived indeed, which eternity cannot recover again, through want of the ſerious trial of this within time?

ANSW. It is a great buſineſs you are upon, and aſſuredly the higheſt work of a Chriſtians life now to live for God, and to know they ſhall for ever be with him in glory: Oh! how rare are thoſe in this age, who are on this trial, and to work out their Salvation in fear and trembling: Whilſt ſuch a throng is about the things of this life, as almoſt no time can be found for the one neceſſar thing. It is ſure, to have an evidence of our being in the ſtate of grace, is of more worth than all the trouble can be in acquiring it, and if ſuch die in a miſtake here, they are then undone for ever; But, it is ſtrange, what means ſuch halting and uncertainty in this matter, when it is ſo clear. 1. That there is a certainty attainable of ones ſtate and being in Chriſt, as can make it eaſy to adventure into eternity with that aſſurance, for me to die is gain, Phil. 1. 21. and that Pſal. 73: 24. He will guide me by his counſel, and afterward receive me to glory: Which I am ſure, were it more underſtood, the greateſt trial of a Chriſtian then ſhould be more how to bear his joy, than his griefs, even under the ſoreſt preſſure of affliction; yea the greateſt acts of patience and ſelf denial would be to be willing and ſubmiſſive to ſtay for ſome time here. 2. It is ſure, the Scripture leaves none to a doubtful or uncertain enquiry anent this; but hath ſo clear and diſtinct a ſound, as none needs ſay, Who shall go up to Heaven, that we may know, whether we ſhall dwell there for ever, for the Word is near, Rom. 10: ver. 8. Deut. 30. ver. 12. and theſe things are written that our joy may be full, p. 221 Joh. 1: ver. 4. and that theſe who believe, may know they have eternal life, 1 Joh. 5: ver. 13. 3. Though the work of trial anent a Chriſtians ſtate be of greateſt weight, yet lyes it not in any long circuit, or many words, but it is ſuch as from ſome few clear, plaine and infallible markes, which are founded upon cleareſt evidence from the Scripture, may be with the furtheſt certainty determined. 4. It is to the touch ſtone, but not to the ballance a Chriſtian muſt here come for trial, that it be true in the kind, even whilſt the degree and meaſure may be very ſmall to their eyes. 5. But it is needful to know that the loweſt degree of grace is above flesh and blood, ſo as none can come to Jeſus Chriſt, without a drawing power from himſelf, and ſuch a pull at the heart, as muſt bring the grip with it. But to come a little more near to your propoſal. Do you in truth queſtion, if you have ever yet paſt the new birth, and be in the ſtate of grace, and where you ſhall dwell for ever? You may then bring it to a ſpeedy cloſe upon theſe clear and undeniable grounds. 1. That the Scriptures bring down before our eyes that greateſt depth of election, ſo as it can be no more ſure ſuch shall be ſaved, who are predeſtinat to life, were it poſſible to ſee their names write in that ſecret roll of the eternal counſel of God, than it is ſure ſuch are elected, and shall undoubtedly be ſaved, who have come to Jeſus Chriſt in the acceptation of his offer in the Goſpel; for thus muſt we firſt make our effectual calling ſure, and then we aſſuredly know our election. 2 Pet. 1: 10. 2. There can be no debate here, that where converſion is, the work of the Spirit muſt be then known in convincing men of ſin. Ioh. 16: 9. ſince the great healer can be no Phyſician to the whole, but to the ſick. Matth. 9: 12. ſuch, who have been in ſome meaſure Pricked to the heart with ſuch a ſight of a natural ſtate, the ſinfulneſs of ſin, the Spiritual extent of the law in ſome ſuch meaſure and degree, as is needful to make roome for Jeſus Chriſt, who had never a weight on them before; that as the needle in the compaſs is in a continued agitation, and cannot fixe unril it be at the right point and p. 23ſettle there, then, O then is there no poſſible quiet, until they have found a reſt in Jeſus Chriſt Matth. 11 29. 3. If any be in Chriſt, he is a new Creature 2 Cor. 5: 17. which is the new man that all muſt put on, who were ever ſavingly called, and thus know what it is to have that witneſs within of the ſanctifying work of the Spirit, which is alwayes a ſure, though not alwayes alike clear evidence of a new ſtate and being in Chriſt Rom. 8: 1. Yea it is ſure, the new birth muſt be once paſt here. Joh. 3: 3. elſe you are loſt for eternity, and now judge what comforting evidence you have got of this, if you were to look death at this preſent hour in the face. 4. Is any thing more plain and expreſs, than this is from the Scripture, that to ſuch as are ſaved, the truth of the Goſpel, and of a crucified Chriſt is the power and the wiſdome of God? 1 Cor. 1: 24. and have you this witneſs to bear from undoubted experience, that you have got ſuch a ſight of the drawing power and beauty of Jeſus Chriſt in the offer of the Goſpel, that paſſeth natural underſtanding as hath determined your conſent to the furtheſt to embrace ſo invaluable a bargain, though it should be at the rate to ſell all to make ſuch a purchaſs. Matth. 13: 46? 5. It is expreſs and clear from the Scripture, that with a converted ſtate there alſo is known a Spiritual light and diſcerning of the things that are freely given us of God 1 Cor. 2: 12. which they never knew before; yea, that there is no midle ſtate betwixt theſe two, of being tranſlated out of the darkneſs of nature into that marvellous light of the Goſpel, which then shineth in upon the ſoul, when once that bleſſed day of converſion hath begun to dawn. 1 Pet. 2: 9. And now can you upon ſureſt triall put to your ſeale that God is true herein? 6. Hath the Scripture left this either doubtful or dark in the leaſt, that to ſuch as believe, Jeſus Christ is precious? 1 Pet. 2: verf. 7. he hath got their love, hath gained their heart and conſent to be hence forth no more their own, but Christs. 1 Cor. 6: 19. and here to take up their reſt never to part, which muſt not want ſome trial, if the world, or if tribulation or diſtreſs will part them with his love. Now bring this near your thoughts what you know of ſuch a p. 24mark. 7. Is it not clear, that with a converted ſtate the war is begun that will never ceaſe here, betwixt the flesh and the Spirit Gal. 5: 17. and as the regenerat part is at an advantage, the more vigorous is its oppoſition then againſt the flesh; yea againſt ſuch ſecret and Spiritual evils that may ly moſt near, from their natural temper and conſtitution, as their right eye. or right hand. Matth. 5: 29. 8. Is it not with a renewed ſtate by grace this alſo muſt be known, what the Spiritual way of ſervice to God in the deauties of Worship is, in the newneſs of the Spirit, and not in the oldneſs of the Letter. Rom. 7: 6. yea to know in ſome meaſure the Spirit of Prayer, which ſo ſenſibly helpeth the infirmities of the Saints. Rom. 8: 26. and what have you thus found to anſwer ſo plain an evidence and mark as this, of your ſtate and being in Chriſt? 9. Is there any thing dark or difficult here, that if you be riſen with Christ, this will natively reſult from the ſame to ſeek the things that are above? Col. 3: 7. that where your treaſure is, you will know then in ſome meaſure to have your heart and deſire following, Matth. 6: 21. And ſome comforting converſe with the thoughts of that glory which is to come, yea a rejoicing in the hope there of when you shall breath in that ſweeter air of the higher Paradiſe, where love, joy, and oneneſs of heart with your bleſſed head, and the whole triumphant Church there shall then never admit the ſmalleſt interruption for all eternity. Now are not theſe few marks on ſuch clear and undeniable Scripture grounds, as it is ſtrange what should make this a dark buſineſs to any, who would not make it their choice to hold faſt deceit, or goe down with a lie in their right hand to the grave, though the comforting and clear evidence, thereof be not the ſame at all times, nor in the ſame meaſure and degree alike to all.

QU. VI.

Since there is no queſtioning the Truth & evidence of ſuch markes, where the Scriptures are ſo clear, I would deſire to know alſo, what length is that which ſome may come in a temporary work, and a p. 25being an almoſt Chriſtian, which is not ſaving; ſince this is my greatest interest within time, and knows not how ſoon the night cometh?

A. You have that ſure and unerring record of the Scripture to goe to, where you may clearly ſee. 1. What a length there is in a forme of knowledge Rom. 2: v. 20. and a forme of Godlineſs without power. 2. Tim 3: v. 5. Yea that this may be in a high meaſure; and was not Judas one of the twelve? 2. It is there you may ſee, they have begun in the Spirit who have ended in the flesh. Gal. 3: 3. and what length ſuch came who received the ſeed of the word, and had ſome diſcerneable growth a Little, yea forth with ſprung up. Matth. 13: verſ. 5, 6. Part of which was chocked with theſe thornes of the cares of the world, and others did quickly wither and goe back, when perſecution aroſe, having no ſolide root. A Scripture which should be much thought on, and deeply laid to heart by all who would not be deceived about a heaven and bleſſedneſs for ever. 3. You may ſee there likewiſe what length the foolish Virgins came. Matth. 25: 8, 9. Who wanted not a lamp and Viſible Profeſſion before others, as might gain a name and teſtimony in their day, & yet shut out for ever. 4. The Scripture will let you ſee alſo what eminent gifts, even Spiritual may be reached by a common work of the Spirit, where converſion was never known, Lord have we not Propheſied in thy name Mat. 22: 7. Yea that extraordinary inſpiration is no infalible evidence of Sanctification. As in that ſtrange inſtance of Balaam. 5. That ſome may cry unto God, and make mention of his name, but not in truth, you may read Eſai. 48: 1. 6. That there is a glorying in appearance, and not in heart, you may ſee 2 Cor. 5: 12. Nor is it ſtrange to ſee this at ſuch a height, as with Jehuto invite the world to ſee their zeal for the Lord, & to enquire at others, if their heart be right, whilſt his own was moſt falſe, & unſtraight. The world is no ſtranger to this what length of a Profeſſion hath been to mask a private intereſt with ſuch a shew and appearance: But let us conſider theſe alſo. 1. That nothing is here either to wound p. 26or affright the leaſt of the Saints, who are in earneſt how to be ſaved, ſince Truth in the inward parts is that great thing which the Holy God regards and takes pleaſure in and a few graines of this weigh down many talents of outward performances; Let the Righteous ſtill hold on in his way, and he that hath clean hands wax ſtronger and ſtronger. Iob. 17: 9. 2. It is a length that none can come whoſe heart is not in ſome meaſure ſincere before the Lord, to have their ſalvation through Chriſt ly ſo near, as to be under ſome fears and tremblings left they be deceived there in, ſo as they dare make a humble reference to the God of truth. ſearch me and try, wherein there may be any deceit or falshood, and lead me in a right way. Pſ. 139: 23. 24. For when thus their heart condemne them not, they may have confidence then before God. 1 Ioh. 3: 21. 3. What ever hath been the furtheſt length of mens deceiving the world and themſelves at once anent their Religion, yet can it not put the leaſt blot on the ſpotleſs way of the Lord, and nothing doth the Scripture more dreadfully threaten, than any ſuch falſe shew; yea, it is there you may ſee this in it's true Colours and how horride it is. And the more it doth approach to Religion (which is ſo pure and undefiled) the more hateful and loathſome it is, ſo as even ſuch as comply therewith in themſelves, yet are enforced to loath it in others.

QU. VII.

Though I am conſtrained to aſſent & ſubject to the Truth in what you have ſpoke, ſince there is no flieing before it, yet may it not be ſafe to admit ſome delay a little, whilst men are in health, and ſtrength of their years, yea have ſo much oft to throng them from their neceſſar concernes in the world, and lay this over until age and ſickneſs may give more freedome, for being in ſuch earnest about ſalvation, whilst it is not a laying the ſame aſide, without ſome ſetled reſolution to follow it in a fit time?

A. Do but take ſo much time now as to reaſon thus with your ſelf, and then judge, whether it can be ſafely deferred, p. 27which. 1. Is the one neceſſar thing; and is not an eternity of ſuch weight, that if there were many ages enſured to us, much more a few dayes, which are wholly uncertain, here were enough to keep us in ſome continued throng. It is ſure, either heaven and a glory there for ever, and the truth of a hell and everlaſting torment muſt be to ſuch but a dreame, and a conjectural thing, elſe there could be no poſſible quiet without a knowing where they muſt dwell for ever. 2. Can this be deferred whilſt we ſee time makes ſuch ſwift diſpatch, and that it is ſure, while we now live and breath, we are a dying and hath it in ſome degrees begun, and advanced every hour of our life? and Oh! should dying men keep at a diſtance from the thoughts of death, who ſo oft may hear it ſound; and the bell ringing for others? 3. Can this admit a delay to ſuch, were it but for ſome few dayes or hours, who cannot poſſibly be ſecured, when they ly down at night, but their breath may be ſtopped by a ſudden ſurpriſe of death ere they awake; yea thus ſleeps at an adventure of being ere the next day in an irrecoverably loſt ſtate? 4. Can there be a delay here by ſuch, who knowes not only the night is coming, when none can work, but are ſo uncertain, if the firſt touch of ſickneſs and approach of death be not a lethargy, wherein they can neither know, nor reflect on their own caſe, which I have known remarkably to have befallen ſome, who uſed to make ſuch an account, they would take Religion to heart, when once they were dying? 5. Is it not needful ſuch have the work of their day put by in the ſeaſon thereof, without a daring to lay it over; when to be ſick and die is ſo great and ſolemne a work by it ſelf? 6. Was it not then too late for the foolish Virgins, to ariſe and beſtirre themſelves, when they had loſt their ſeaſon of the Goſpel, or to make ready upon a midnight cry, when they had ſlept the time of their work and duty, and is not this put upon record by the Holy Ghoſt, for all after ages; that they may be readie with their loines girded, and their lamps burning, who know that death certainly is before them, and knowes not but that it come as a thief in the night? 7. Could they p. 28have an hours quiet, if their eyes were once opened to ſee that horrible pit they ly into of a Natural State, and what they are eſtranged from, of that bleſſed ſtate of a Chriſtian? But Oh! How little is this either underſtood or beleeved?

QU. VIII.

I confeſs I muſt either ſhut my eyes, or admit the certainty of theſe things; to preſs a preſent ſeriouſneſs in making ſure work for heaven: But what you touched laſt of mens not underſtanding the ſtate they are in, puts me to a new enquiry, if ihis can be meant of ſuch as live under the light of the Goſpel, yea converſe with the ſame truths that others do, for what can the moſt diſcerning Chriſtian ſee further in Scripture Truths, than ſuch as exerce their reaſon and judgement about them as well as they: and what are theſe things that they have got a ſight of, which thoſe who are in the State of Nature, are wholly ſtrangers unto?

ANS. You know that it is no words can tell, what a thing day light is to them that never knew it, which can only be known by its own evidence; nor is it poſſible to give an account in another way of a ſpiritnal diſcerning the things of God, which not in degree but kind is as far above the light of nature and reaſon, as that of the ſun is above a Candle. O what another thing is a ſpiritual acquaintance with the things themſelves held forth in the Scripture, than any notions or knowledge of the Doctrine thereof, which may enable to talk or diſpute, whilſt the power and efficacy thereof was never known on the ſoul: yea nor the writing of the Law upon the heart; and to learne the truth as it is in Jeſus. Epheſ 4: 21. but for anſwer to your propoſal, I shall tell you in a few words what ſuch are admitted to ſee, yea are perſwaded of the undoubted certainty thereof, whilſt others neither know nor ſee what they ſee, but are wholly ſtrangers thereto. 1. The excellency and lovelineſs of their beloved Maſter, ſo as to them there is but one Chriſt in Heaven and in earth, whoſe roome none can fill but himſelf, yea can give that anſwer to ſuch as enquire, he is p. 29altogether lovely; that is their beloved, with whom none, none may offer to come in competition. Cant. 5: 16. 2. They ſee and know a reconci…ed God in Christ with that aſſured evidence, as ſome times no cloud is betwixt Heaven and their ſoul, with that ſenſible intimation of Pardon and acceptance, as they are at the furtheſt ſure, they ſee, feele and enjoy, what is not poſſible to expreſs to others. 3. It is not that marvellous light only breaks then in, at their firſt entry into a ſpiritual ſtate, but there is a ſight ſometimes a Chriſtian hath of Scripture Truths, and breaking up of ſome further diſcovery there to their ſoul, that if they would give all the world, they cannot have at other times. 4. Such know aſſuredly the truth of a new nature, which is ſo wonderful, and wholly a ſupernatural thing, wherewith natural reaſon can have no acquaintance, nor is it ſtrange how much others are in the dark to this, who know ſo little of their own ſoul what it means, except by the power and operations thereof. 5. Do you ask what ſuch know or diſcerne in the things of God to which moſt are ſtrangers? they ſee the Glory and beauty of holineſs, the truth of Spiritual things, which is the hidden things of God in a myſtery. 1 Cor. 2: 7. yea thus are taken in to ſee theſe great things, not in a notion thereof, but in their Spiritual Nature, as they are ſealed with power and efficacy on their ſoul? 6. It is given to ſuch to know alſo, (which the Spirit only can reveale & teach,) what a ſweet accord there is in theſe Depths of providence betwixt the Chriſtians croſs and their comfort, their being cast down, yet not deſtroyed, to be ſorrowful, yet alwayes rejoicing, yea in having nothing, yet to poſſeſs all things. and are not theſe ſuch things that could never poſſibly have entred into mens thoughts, if they were not made known from a higher airth? It is true, the furtheſt that any of the Saints know here is but in part, yea many a dark and ſad overclouding are ſuch oft under. O if the moſt diſcerning of natural men could know what ſuch are with that certainty perſwaded of, as they are of their own being.

p. 30QU. IX.

Theſe are great things you ſpeake of, but ſince I have ſuch cauſe to know, what influence and power the things of this earth have, which lyes ſo near our external ſenſes: could I be as fully perſwaded of the certainty of theſe ſupernatural truths, and enjoyments of a ſpiritual life, to be ſure and undoubted realities, as what I touch and feele; I think then I had got the world much under my feet, yea in another manner should look on the ſtrange madneſs and diſtraction of most this day, whoſe continued work is how to graſp after a shadow; whilst they have no heart or deſire for what is the Chriſtians choice. I preſs this the more, ſince it is ſure, one cannot be throughly perſwaded of the truth of ſpiritual things as greatest realities, and that there is a ſtate and life of Grace here, but they muſt be to the furtheſt ſure of that Life of Glory, which is to come.

ANS. It is ſtrange, how ſuch as look but at a diſtance, are not dazeled more with amazement at the report of theſe great things of Religion, and what Chriſtians have in hope before them; but not to loſe time, let me beſeech your bringing theſe near your thoughts, when you are alone. 1 That it is an Argument of Power, not of words, which can fully quiet the ſoul of a Chriſtian anent this. 2. You may but judge what a ſad part that of the Saints were, if in this life their hope were only, or what could poſſibly be comforting to moſt in ſuch a day, whoſe griefs are in earneſt, if the Truth and Comforts of a ſpiritual life should be a doubtful thing to them. 3, What gain or intereſt could any ſnch poſſibly have to deſigne a falſe Witneſs and Teſtimony, yea, with ſuch aſſured confidence, from experience, if they were not at the furtheſt certainty thereof; yea thus to converſe ſo much in the Duties of Godlineſs, where you ſee they cannot be but a toile to the flesh, if the peace of God, and Joy and Comforts of the p. 31Spirit were but a naked shew? For this were to render themſelves both deſperatly wicked and miſerable at once, without any profit. Or what think you would make the affectionat parents preſs ſo much ſeriouſneſs in following the Lord on their Children, and thus put them on ſo ſad a bargane, whom they ſo dearly Love, if they knew it not to be their true intereſt here and for ever? 4. You know the Doctrine of the Goſpel is a Doctrine of Holineſs, whither the whole of that bleſſed contrivance doth moſt natively reſolve. And is not the truth hereof write forth in ſuch viſible realities before your eyes, as it may be no leſs manifeſt in its Examples than Precepts? I hope there is no debating here. 5. It is ſure, the diſcoveries of the word do not direct men to things a far off, but to ſuch as brings the great things of the Goſpel near, even in to their heart, ſo as to handle and feele by experience the truth thereof; and you know the conſolation of the Spirit is not by words, but by things, giving into the ſoul a ſpiritual and ſenſible experience of the reality thereof, and of the Love of Jeſus Christ let forth to them. 6. And are not theſe marvellous effects and operations of the Spirit of God, in ſubduing the ſoul by grace, ſo as to embrace an afflicted lot and tribulation for the Goſpel, to take joyfully the ſpoiling of their goods, yea to dip their hands in the blood of a beloved ſin, and find delight thus in doing violence to the flesh, ſuch as may shew that it is ſure, Chriſtians muſt know & enjoy, what they and moſt of the world are ſtrangers to? And is it not above nature, or the furtheſt of humane reach to learne to be meek, humble, lowly, Patient in ſuffering, and ſelf denying? 7. Such have loſt a ſpiritual taſte, or never had it, who knowes nothing of that incomparable ſweetneſs, which is in ſecret converſe with God; that thus there is not a claime only to that glorious ſtate which is above, but the first fruits and earnest ſo real, as will change the very countenance after ſome ſpecial times of neer fellowship with Jeſus Chriſt, ſo as in the greateſt compoſure, they can ſay, I ſurely feele, I enjoy, & am ſure, for the truth thereof. 8. What frequent tranſports p. 32Joy and delight have been in Chriſtians extremeſt ſufferings for the truth, yea ſome times after a dark and diſmal cloud over their ſoul? And why do not men enquire what should his meane, or how ſuch a thing were poſſible, if they had not got a ſight, that could look them out of pain and trouble? Let me but further add, how ſtrange, (but yet I hope no rare or unuſual ſight) is that of the outward man decaying or mouldering down to the grave, when the inward man is more diſcerneably ſtrong and vigorous, than in times of greateſt health?

QU. X.

I make not this queſtion here, to debate, but to be further confirmed in the certainty of the truth, which is the greatest joy men can have on the earth, but I muſt confeſs, the greatneſs of theſe things is ſuch, as may put the moſt Eſtablished to a stand; yea is it a ſmall'buſineſs to be under ſuch a call to embrace and accept of Ieſus Chriſt in the offer of the Goſpel, and in him of a crown of Glory that fadeth not away, and is there not cauſe of fear for ſuch as I am, to adventure here, which is ſo high, and far above what I can poſſibly think of?

A. This muſt be matter of aſtonishment and wondering for all eternity, and it were well, if ſuch an exerciſe were more begun here, to enquire and wonder at what we know of the great truths of the Goſpel; but it is ſure, it were the higheſt of pride, not humility to hold back where the Holy God calls; or for a perishing man not to throw out his armes and ſwime to a rock, when it is before his eyes, and is not the Goſpel ſuch a contrivancc, as the whole of the Saints ſince the beginning could not poſſibly have a wish beyond the ſame, to shew forth that marvellous condeſcendence, freedome and plainneſs which is there, yea where none can be afrighted away who with deſire did ever follow to this bleſſed airth. But ſince this is of ſuch concerne, not for a Chriſtians Peace and Perſonal Encouragement only, but to bear witneſs to the bleſſed way of the p. 33Lord, and ſhew how deſperat an Oppoſition theirs muſt be, whoſe hearts are not melted and gained by ſuch inexpreſſible tenderneſs and condeſcendence of the Goſpel; let me ſpeak theſe few words. 1. You know that ſuch this is, as none can come wrong, if they come but in truth upon ſuch an errand, as the felt need of Jeſus Chriſt: and therefore is the Scripture ſo expreſs here. Joh. 6: 37. and whoſoever cometh to me, I will in no wiſe caſt out, ſais he who is faithful and true, yea ſuch, as the whole of the Scripture doth remarkeably ſhew, See Rev. 22: 17. and whoſoever will, let him come and take of the waters of Life. 2. Such is his way, on whom the alone weight of his peoples intereſt and ſalvation leanes, as he both formes the deſire of the ſouls of his people, and ſatisfies the ſame; nor can there be in truth a hungring and deſire after him, but their Enjoyment is thus begun. Matth. 5: verſ. 6. 3. What can be more condeſcending, than his way is to the loweſt, whoſe ſoul doth but in a ſerious look follow, when it is in truth, when there is almoſt no more can be reached. Eſai. 45: 22. if thus the heart be but laid open to ſeek a relief in him, yea to look as a far off to that, even to which they fear to approach. 4. And is not ſuch his way, that the greateſt thing he moſt expreſſy requires in the ſaddeſt caſe of felt and diſcovered guilt, is to flee in but for ſhelter to him from that dreadful purſute of an awakned conſcience? yea how marvellous is this that as their face is towards the Gofpel, there is the moſt ſenſible inlet to contrition and brokenneſs of heart, and ſerious exerciſe of repentance. which as a ſweet and native reſult followes thereon? O! what is given for the furtheſt clearing hereof in the Scripture? See Zach. 12: 10. Act. 5: 31. 5. Such is his way, as he hath come under bond and promiſe by his faithfulneſs to make forthcoming to his people, which is only of grace, he hath promiſed to give what he requires, yea to work their works in them, as well as for them, Eſai. 26: 12. 6. Such is his condeſcendence, that his peoples ſecurity ſhould p. 34leane on nothing in themſelves, not on their own apprehending but being apprehended. Phil. 3: 12. Yea that when any of his people, broken under the ſenſe of guilt have no Argument to make uſe of; or confidence to adventure, he finds them one in himſelf. Hoſ. 13: 9. O Iſrael, thou haſt deſtroyed thy ſelf, but in me is thy help. 7. Such is his way, where there is no exception of perſons, but the poor made moſt dearly welcome, and brought near in his offer; when the proud, were they the greateſt Monarchs in the earth, he knowes a far off. 8. This is he, and ſuch is his bleſſed way, as the ſeverity of the Law muſt ſerve for that very end, to commend Jeſus-Christ and lead in to him, and the felt weight of ſin bring a begun cure and relief therewith in the felt need of a Saviour. Matth. 11: v. 28. 9. Such is his bleſſed way, as yet did never break a bruiſed reed nor quench a ſmoking flaxe, Eſai. 42: v. 3. Nor put ſuch back, whoſe feare to adventure made them to ſtand a far off, with the poor Publican. Luk. 18: 13. Yea of whom, all who ever knew him muſt bear him this witneſs, he is tender and compaſſionat in his ſharpeſt reproofs; and when he wounds ſoreſt, then is it that he doth most earneſtly remember with the ſounding of his bowels towards them. Jer. 31: 20. 10. Such is he, & his way towards his Church here upon the earth, as he hath given ſome peculiar Lines in his Word, of his tender regard to ſuch, even beyond others, who are moſt deſtitute of outward help Pſal. 146: v. 7, 8, 9. Pſal. 40: laſt. And comes ſo low to take in thoſe that are moſt rejected of others, and may have leaſt notice or regard at the time, and therefore, when he was himſelf on the earth, he was called a friend of Publicans and ſinners, Matth. 11: 19. 11. Such is his way, whoſe peace and acceptance hath ſo oft met his people, as a bleſſed ſurpriſal, when they knew leaſt how to adventure, and then given them a moſt unexpected welcome, when they have been under the greateſt fears Pſal. 18: 4: and 116: 3, 4. Luk. 15: 20. 12. Such is his way and marvellous condeſcendence, where mercy p. 35gets a preference to ſacrifice. Matth. 9: v. 13. Where the widowes mite gives more in a little, than theſe of a great eſtate with much, being in ſingleneſs of heart thus given for the Lord. Luk. 21: 3. Yea where one half of the Chriſtians work is in a right and ſerious aime therein, and is accepted according to that a man hath, and not according to what he hath not. 2 Cor. 8: 12. I ſhall but further add on ſo great a ſubject, that ſuch is his way towards his people, as he not only calls, but cauſeth their ſoul to approach to him, by an inward touch of his power thereon; yea this moſt diſcerneably, when nothing elſe hath been left but to pray, and roll over their `caſe on his bleſſed hand.

QU. XI.

Theſe are great things you ſpeake of, and it is ſure, must be to ſuch as ever knew what a wounded ſoul is▪ under the tender hand of this bleſſed healer; but for that you have last mentioned of ſuch a call and acceſs for Chriſtians to pray; yea that aſſuredly the prayers of ſuch on earth goe up to Heaven, and are heard and accepted▪ there, ſo as at all times, and under every weight and preſſure, we may come and preſent our requests to the Glorious God, who lives and ſees. This, I must ſay, ſeemes to me one of the most marvellous things in practical Religion, yea hath put me to a ſtand, how men who are ſo much taken, as in a tranſport, with ſome ſingular experiment in nature, yet have ſuch ordinary thoughts of this, if they be perſwaded of its truth.

ANS. This is marvellous indeed, though the way of moſt ſeeme to bring under debate, if prayer be any thing more than ſome empty forme or a piece of invention, rather than ſo great and ſerious a buſineſs; but I hope you know, 1. That none ever was called to take this on truſt, or implicity credit the Teſtimony of others, but p. 36there is a ſolemne appeale here to every ones perſonal trial, for the truthand certainty hereof. 2. That it is with the firſt being of Chriſtians, and when once a ſpiritual life is formed in the ſoul, how prayer then is as their natural work, like the tendency and breathing of the child after the breaſts. 3. And is it not clear that ſuch have got a new acquaintance, and muſt know another ſociety than men, to make their retirements ſweet and deſireable; yea that continued haunt and reſort to this bleſſed airth, ſhewes the truth of commerce and trading with another world, is known to ſuch with the greateſt of certainty? 4. Do but judge what could be poſſibly comforting to a Chriſtian, when the lower ſprings of their encouragments are ſo viſibly ſhut up, if this ſpring and paſſage were not open and tried in their ſureſt experience. Is it eaſy to rejoice, and be comforted, when all things without do moſt remarkeably frowne, or to beare cheerfully out in ſuch a day, when they may be preſſed above meaſure, if there were not ſuch an airth the world knowes not of? & how it is the Chriſtians mid-night ſongs under the croſs, have been oft ſweeter than in any times of their outward proſperity; does it not witneſs, that its no naked form or ſhew could ever anſwer to this? 5. And when you ſee ſuch diſcerneable advantage ſome of the followers of God in their day have beyond others, yea ſometimes beyond themſelves, in a vigorous and tender Chriſtian walk; could this be but further followed: How eaſy were it to find, that thoſe are they, who are moſt in the work and exerciſe of prayer, which hath ſo cloſs an intercourſe with the vitals of Chriſtianity; nor can ever one inſtance be given of ones flouriſhing and being fruitful in the way of God, and not much under the ground in this exerciſe, which is moſt an internal thing, where the loudeſt cry to Heaven maketh oft the leaſt noiſe.

QU. XII.

Theſe I confeſs, are clear, but what p. 37would most help to make this duty both comforting and eaſy, whilst there is ſuch difficulty to many, how to expreſs themſelves thisway, and others find it a ſore wearineſs to the flesh, yea leſs eaſy to be thus alone, and take ſome time for ſecret prayer, than to wait on publick duties, or joine with others in ſuch a work?

ANSW. I hope you know. 1. That as our tye to the publick duties of worſhip is great and indiſpenſible, to improve fellowſhip with others in the exerciſes of Godlineſs, yet moſt of a Chriſtian and his work, is that which is leaſt ſeen, and lyes hid from the view of others; yea the moſt weighty duties of Chriſtianity are the more retired and ſecret duties thereof, ſo that a true meaſure of a Chriſtian, muſt not be from what he is in publick, and converſe with others, but what he is alone, where he lies open to his witneſs, who ſearcheth the heart. 2. Such can only blame themſelves, and are ſadly eſtranged from the truth of Godlineſs, if they know nothing elſe, but to be alone in their retirements, who are then called to an immediate fellowſhip with God in Chriſt, and to know the truth thereof on trial. 3. You know a natural motion is eaſy and without conſtraint, and were this once underſtood, how prayer is a ſoul-work, and to carrred forth from inward principles of a new nature then what was a ſore toile here, becomes their ſweeteſt delight; for to pray, is not an expreſſing to the Lord what ſhould be ones deſires, but a preſent breathing of the ſoul in deſires after him: when the pleaſure of Religion is ſo known with the power and life thereof. 4. The more weight and burden of the Chriſtians caſe on himſelf, is a tried help for more facility and life in the work of prayer. O what ſweet and refreſhing hours have ſome ſad and preſſing burdens oft helped Chriſtians to, which they ſhould not have known otherwiſe? 5. The more frequency and continuance cauſeth true delight and freedome p. 38in this exerciſe, as the wearing out and neglect of this duty will quickly weare ſuch out of any delight there, yea to make them diſreliſh any other part of Religion.

QU. XIII.

But is it not ſore to continue in prayer, when there is no viſible returne; yea, that after moſt ſenſible and felt acceſs in this duty, there ſeemes oft a thicker darkneſs to follow?

ANSW. It is not ſtrange, though this be a trial indeed; yea ſometimes in a more than ordinary way ſearching, which put the faith of ſo great and eſtabliſhed a man to this ſtand, as to cry out Pſ. 69: 3. I am weary with my crying, my throat is dry, while I wait for my God. But let us conſider therewith. 1. That through the whole of the Scripture, it is ſo clear to be the Lords uſual way to confirme before he try, yea to follow the greateſt confirmations of his peoples faith, with ſome remarkeably ſharp trials. 2. The waiting Chriſtian could yet never ſay, a return came too late, but in the moſt fit and opportune ſeaſon, even when it hath been longeſt deferred. How ſtrange would theſe ſeeme, yet moſt ſweetly accord. Luk. 18: 7, 8. though he bear long, yet will he avenge ſpeedily? 3. Is it a ſmall thing to be anſwered with ſtrength in your ſoul; and for being helped to wait, until the outgate more fully break up, ſince a divine power may be no leſs marvellouſly ſeen in the Chriſtians ſupport, than in the moſt aſtoniſhing delivery? 4. Is not a ſubdued Spirit, with a humble reſignation to the Lord under a long deferred hope, a higher mercy, when truely conſidered, than the thing it ſelf which we moſt follow? And are theſe loſers, where thus more is given, than what they either ſought or hoped for. 5. Is not this the ſureſt way to make haſte by onwaiting, and the choiceſt mean to gain time, and bring a Chriſtian and his deſire ſooneſt together? Which was the witneſs of a moſt experienced Chriſtian, I have with much longing ſought p. 39ſuch a thing from the Lord, yet got no returne, but when once I was helped through grace to give him his will, and to be reſigned wholly thereto, then was it he gave me my will alſo in what I had ſought? 6. The more prayer and wreſtling hath come betwixt the Chriſtians trial and outgate, is it not found the more comforting and ſweet, when it hath come? that whilſt hope deferred makes the heart ſick, yet how great an intereſt does it pay in for the furtheſt loſs and pain in onwaiting, when as a Tree of life, it hath at laſt bloſſomed after many a winter ſtorme? 7. His thoughts are not as ours, and his way not as ours. Eſai. 55: verſ. 9. We ſee not at preſent nor can fathome the depths of divine providence, and how needful it is to have the heart brought low, that not only patience might have its perfect work, Jam. 1: 4. but a Chriſtians being more fitted for the deſired mercy. 8. But what do you expect, which is not of free and marvellous grace? For to continue in prayer is an expreſly commanded duty, though no ſenſible fruit, or income ſhould follow, yea can bring no price in its hand, to obtain what we ſeek. And ſhould theſe quarrel with onwaiting, who have all this kept in their ſight, I am not worthy of the leaſt of the mercies thou haſt ſhewed to thy ſervant. Gen. 32: 10? 9. Could we ever know the uſe making and comfort of theſe great Promiſes to onwaiters, ſuch as, Eſai. 30: ver. 18. and 40: v. 31. Pſal. 25: verſ. 3. If grace were not thus kept in exerciſe.