A Word to Sinners and a Word to Saints, Part 2

A Word to Sinners and a Word to Saints · Part 2

p. 219Josh. 24.15.

As for Me and my House, we will serve the Lord.

CHAP. I. The Parts of the Text, and Observation thence arising.

THe summ of these words is, The good mans godly r…solution, to serve the Lord with his houshold.

In which we may observe these particulars,

1. The person resolving, viz, Ioshua, he it is who makes this resolution.

2. The order of his resolution, first himself will serve the Lord, and then his house.

3. The extent of his resolution, viz. his whole house, as for me, and my house.

4. The matter resolved on, and this is, to serve God.

Each of these might afford unto us a distinct point of Doctrine. But I shall wave them all, and insist upon one, which as it comprehendeth the main scope of the words, so it best suiteth with the scope of my intention in this discourse; which is to press all Parents, Masters, and Governours of Families to a constant and p. 220conscionable performance of holy, and religious duties in and with their Families.

The point of Doctrine is this,

Observ. It is a duty incumbent upon Parents and Masters of Families, to be carefull, that not only themselves, but also all under their charge, even their whole houshold, do faithfully serve the Lord.

It is not sufficient for Governours of Families to be good Christians themselves, but they ought to be Christian Governours. Not enough to be themselves Religious, but they must train up all under their charge in the knowledge and practice of Religion. And the truth is, good Christians they cannot be, who are not Christian Governours: He hath little Religion himself, that doth not faithfully endeavour to propagate it in his Family. Thus Ioshua as a Master of a Family undertaketh not only for himself, but also for his whole houshold, that he with them, and they with him should serve the Lord. Yea and in all ages such as have been most eminent in grace, have been most exact in their Family-duties; instance Abraham, the Father of the fa…thfull, of whom God himself giveth thi… testimony,Gen. 18.19.Gen 18:19 I know Abraham, that he will command his Children and his houshold after him, that they shall keep the way of the Lord, &c. And Iacob his Grand-child walking in the steps of his Father Abraham, was not content at Bethel to worship God sincerely himself,Gen. 35.2.Gen 35:2 but he chargeth his Family to put away the strange Gods which were among them, and to serve the true God according to the prescribed rule of his Word. David, though he were a King, and so had the care of an whole Kingdom upon him, yet thought his State-affairs no priviledge to exempt him from the Religious ordering, and governing of his Family. And therefore he professeth,Psal. 101.Ps 101 That he would walk within his house with a perfect heart, that is, sincerely discharge the duties belonging to the Governour of an house. Yea under the Law, we find that the Fathers amongst the Israelites were commanded to teach their Children the meaning p. 221of the Passover, Exod. 12. & 13.Exod 12and of the Feast of unleavened bread.

And that we may not think this a legal precept abolished in the time of the Gospel; the Apostle giveth a general charge to all Christian Parents, to bring up their Children in the nurture, Eph. 6.4.Eph 6:4and admonition of the Lord. Yea by the practice of the primitive Christians, who lived in the dayes of the Apostles, it doth appear, that so soon as any Governour of a Family was converted and professed the Christian faith, he still ingaged his Family to serve God;Act. 10.2.Acts 10:2 It is said of Cornelius, that he was a devout man, and one that feared God with all his house. Act. 16.15.Acts 16:15And it is recorded of Lydia, that she was baptized and her Houshold. And it is said of the Iaylor, ver. 34.that he believed in God with all his house. Yea the houses of the faithfull in the primitive times were stiled (a)(a)Rom. 16.5.Rom 16:5Churches, which implyeth that their private families were so piously ordered, and religiously instructed,1 Cor. 16.19.1 Cor 16:19 that they seemed to be little Churches, rather than, ordinary houses; having taken up Ioshuah's resolution, As for me and my house we will serve the Lord.Col. 4.15. Philem. v. 2.Col 4:15

The point being thus proved by Scripture and Examples; come we now to the Reasons for the farther confirmation thereof.

CHAP. II. The Reasons of the point.

R. 1. MAy be taken from the command of God, who hath commanded as much, saying,Deut. 6.7.Deut 6:7 Thou shalt teach my Laws diligently unto thy Children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, &c. And God hath manifested his approbation thereof by commending Abraham for commanding his Children, Gen. 18.19.Gen 18:19and houshold to keep the wayes of the Lord. So that to whomsoever p. 222the Lord hath given this honour to make him a Father of Children, a Master over Servants, a Governour over an Houshold, of them he requireth this duty, to teach, and instruct all under their charge.

R. 2. Every mans house is his private charge which he must oversee, it is his flock which he must attend. You will all acknowledge that every Ministers flock is his charge, and that it is a most dreadfull thing for any to neglect them. And have not you as great a charge of your family, as the Minister hath of his flock? Yea doubtless, I dare boldly say, that every Parent, and Master of a Family, is as deeply charged with the souls of their Children, and Servants; as the Minister is with the souls of his flock. If therefore your Children and Servants live and dye in their sins through your negligence, their blood will be required at your hands.

Yea let Parents, and Masters of Families know and consider, that those Children, and Servants, who by the neglect of their duty to them, shall perish in their sins, will curse them for ever hereafter, amongst the fiends, and damned in hell; crying out, woe and alas that ever we were born of such irreligious Parents; and served such wicked, and ungodly Masters, that had no care of the Salvation of our souls; but suffered us to run headlong into these everlasting flames. Oh that all Parents and Masters of Families would seriously consider these things, and in time labour to prevent them, by a conscionable discharge of the duties belonging to their places, and relations.

R. 3. Justice and equity requireth this at your hands, to do your utmost endeavour to train up your Children, and Servants in the fear of God; and to instruct them in the wayes of Godliness; that as they help you in many things, so you should be a means to help them in this; that as God of his goodness hath made them your Children, and Servants, so you in way of gratitude, should strive to make them his Children, and Servants. And truly though you feed them well, p. 223and cloath them well, and provide well for them, yea and teach them how to live another day, to live as men; yet if you teach them not withall the fear of God, whereby they may live as Christians which will make them live for ever: wherein do you differ from Heathenish Parents, and Pagan Masters? for even they will not be wanting in the former things; which the Apostle implyeth,1 Tim. 5.8.1 Tim 5:8 where he saith, He that provideth not for his Family, is worse than an Infidel. And if you go no further, than to make outward provision for the bodies of your Children, and Servants, you are no better than Infidels and Heathens.

And therefore how doth it concern you who are Parents, and Masters of Families, to have a special care of the souls of your Children, and Servants, by a conscionable performance of holy, and religious duties amongst them, as Praying, Reading, Catechising, and the like; whereby you will not only go beyond all the Heathens in the World: but likewise gain an hopefull evidence to your own souls, of the truth of grace in you; and of the sincerity of your profession, that ye are Christians indeed.

R. 4. The curse of God hangs over those Families in which Religious duties are alltogether neglected; yea it abideth in their houses; as the Wise man expresseth, The curse of the Lord is in the house of the wicked. Prov. 3.33.Prov 3:33Howsoever they may seem to abound, and flourish in all Worldly wealth, and riches; yet the curse of God is upon all that they enjoy. For as the Lord speaketh by his Prophet Malachy, Mal. 2.2.Mal 2:2He will curse their blessings, that is, whatsoever outward good things they did enjoy, should be cursed to them. Whereupon saith Eliphas, in Iob, I saw him taking root, Job 5.3.Job 5:3but I cursed his habitation, that is, I saw him seemingly setled in his outward prosperity, but by the eye of faith I likewise saw a curse hanging over his house, and family, over his wealth and riches.

R. 5. Another Reason may be taken from the manifold benefits and commodities, wich usually follow upon a conscionable performance of these duties,

p. 2241. Religious duties consciensciously performed, will bring down Gods blessing upon your selves and your relations; upon your estate, and all your undertakings. As God blessed Obed-Edom, 2 Sam. 6.11.2 Sam 6:11and all his houshold, for the Arks-sake. So questionless will the Lord bless those Families wherein holy duties are faithfully performed. For Godliness is profitable unto all things, 1. Tim. 4.8.1 Tim 4:8having the promise of this life that now is, as well as of that which is to come. Prov. 14.11.Prov 14:11Whereupon saith the Wise man, The house of the wicked shall be overturned; but the Tabernacle of the upright shall flourish. And therefore the Psalmist pronounceth them blessed who thus fear the Lord saying, Blessed is he that feareth the Lord, Psal. 128. 1, 2, 3, 4.Ps 128:1Ps 128:2Ps 128:3Ps 128:4and walketh in his wayes, for thou shalt eat the labour of thine hand, happy shalt thou be, and it shall be well with thee. How then can such expect a blessing from God, either upon themselves, or upon their relations, or upon their pains and endeavours, who do not set up God and his Worship in their houses, seeing it is that whereby Gods blessing is entailed.

2. Those Children and Servants who are religiously educated and principled, are likeliest to prove comforts to their Parents and Masters. What a comfort must it needs be to thee, who art a Master of a Family, to see thy houshold (through the blessing of God on thy care and pains) to be walking Heaven-ward? Yea when thou comest to lye upon thy death-bed; Oh what a comfort will it then be unto thee, that thou hast good ground to believe, that thy Children are Gods Children, and the Servants of Jesus Christ? thou maist then with stronger confidence commend them unto Gods Fatherly care and protection, and with greater assurance expect Gods blessing upon them after thy death.

3. There is no such means to make your Children loving and dutiful unto you, and your servants faithfull in the discharge of their duty; as to instruct them in the principles of Religion, and to plant the fear of God in their hearts. In which respect p. 225Solomon saith,Prov. 15.20.Prov 15:20 A godly Son maketh a glad Father, viz. by his dutiful and respectfull carriage towards him. And that servant who shall find true grace either first wrought, or further increased in him by his Masters means, will endeavour with the utmost of his power to do him what faithfull service he can, in way of thankfulness.

So that if Parents and Masters of Families, respect either that charge God hath laid upon them, whereof they are to give an account to him at the great day: or that good and benefit, which themselves may reap thereby; they will see good and just ground to be diligent and constant in the discharge of holy duties with their Family.

R. V. Another reason may be taken from the manifold mischiefs, which usually follow, and accompany the neglect of family duties.

1. From hence come all Domestick brawls and contentions; hence it is that the house is divided against it self; Husband against Wife, and Wife against Husband; Master against Servant, and Servant against Master; Parent against Child, and Child against Parent; which would be prevented were the Lord better known, and more duly worshipped amongst them. For where God is served with perfect purity, there is perfect peace. But where God is not served, there is no peace, but jarrs and contentions, strife and debate; which giveth great advantage unto Satan the archenemy of mankind,1 Pet. 5.8.1 Pet 5:8 who like a roaring Lyon walketh about continually seeking whom he may devour.

2. From hence it is that Magistrates are enforced to execute the penalties of the Laws upon so many; namely, because they are not Religiously educated, but suffered to have their wills in their youth. Which appeareth from the sad complaints of many malefactors, at the place of Execution, against their Parents and Masters, for their careless omission of their duty towards them; saying, if they had had any care or conscience of our education, if they had corrected and restrained p. 226us betimes from our wicked courses, we had never come to this dogs-death, and shamefull end.

3. From hence it is that so many Families are so dissolute and prophane, abounding with all manner of sin, and wickedness, as lying, swearing, Sabbath-breaking, drinking, whoring, and the like: as if there were a seminary of little Devils, an houshold of fiends. And truly when Families leave God in not doing the good they should, God leaves Families to do the evil they should not. So that sin hath there free place, where Gods service hath no place. And sins of commission do usually follow sins of omission: it being ordinary with God to punish one sin with another; to punish the neglect of duty, with the committing of sin, by leaving men so to themselves, that they break forth into the committing of great, and hainous sins. A general complaint there is in these dayes of the undutifulness, and disobedience of Children; of the negligence and unfaithfulness of Servants, yea and of the loose, lewd lives of both in many Families; whereof if we would search the true ground and cause, we shall find it rather in the superiours, than in the inferiours. For howsoever inferiours cannot be excused, yet questionless the fault is chiefly in superiours, and Governours, because they are careless and negligent in the discharge of their duty towards them, not praying with them, nor Catechising, and instructing them, as they should. For where religious duties are shut out of any Family, there usually the door is set wide open to looseness, and profaneness.

4. The neglect of Religious duti…s in thy Family will make thee guilty of Murther, even of Soul-murther, which is the greatest of all. For whereas the Souls, as well as the bodies of thy Children, and Servants are committed to thy care and charge; if any of them should perish through thy default, thou art deeply guilty of their eternal death and damnation, and their blood will be required at thy hands. As Iacob was accountable to Laban, for the …oss of every Lamb, or Sheep; at his hand was it required. Gen. 31 19.Gen 31:19So is every Master of a p. 227Family accountable to God, for every soul under his roof. If any of them perish through his default, God will require it at his hands. God will require the blood of thy Child, the blood of thy Servants at thy hands one day. If therefore you will be free from the blood of your Children, train them up in the fear and nurture of the Lord: pray for them and with them: Catechize them, &c.

The Point being confirmed by Scripture and Reason, come we now to the Uses thereof.

CHAP. III. The Vse of Reproof of those Masters who make no Conscience of Family-duties.

Use 1. SEeing it is a Duty incumbent upon Parents, and Masters of Families, to be carefull, that not only themselves, but also all under their charge, even their whole Family do faithfully serve the Lord; then they are greatly to be reproved who are neither carefull to serve God themselves, neither take they any care of their Family: but as there is no fear of God in their hearts, so neither is there any fear of God in their Families. Yea instead of Gods service, there is all manner of wickedness and prophaneness; so that their houses are as so many filthy cages of unclean birds, so many styes of all manner of abominations. Of whose houses we may say what Solomon said of the Harlots house, Prov. 7.27.Prov 7:27'Tis the way to Hell, that is, the high and ready way unto eternal death and condemnation. These men howsoever they would be esteemed good Masters, and good Governours, yet are they far from such; in that they neglect the main duty belonging to good Governours, which is to take care of the souls of those under their charge, and willingly suffer all manner p. 228of wickedness, and prophaness, to rule and bear sway in their Families, and that without any check or controul.

I dare boldly say, it were much better for a man to put his Child into a P…sthouse, than into such a Family: in that wickedness is more infectious than the Plague, spreading infinitely, polluting every one it comes near.Peccatum adeo facile alios invadit, ut nulla pestis tantopere aërem inficere potest. Chem. Har. And whereas the Plague and Pestilence can but kill the body, the contagion of sin is apt to destroy both body and soul. And therefore what is usually written upon the doors of such houses as are visited with the Plague (Lord have mercy upon us) may far better be written upon the doors of such houses, where through the neglect of Family-duties, sin and wickedness doth abound.

I know there are very many both Parents, and Masters, who having provided for the bodies of those under their charge, think they have sufficiently discharged their duty towards them. But I would demand of such, if their care be only to provide for the bodies of their Children and Servants, what do they more to them then to their beasts? If they only cloath them, and pay them their wages, what do they more to them, than the Turks and Infidels (who know not God) do to their Children, and Servants? If their care be only to provide for them an earthly inheritance, without any care to make them Heirs of an Heavenly inheritance, what do they more to them than Iews (who are ignorant of Christ, and his Gospel) do for their Children?

Let such know, that it is their duty to provide not only for for perishing Carcasses, but also for the immortal souls of all theirs. And it is a vain, and foolish imagination for any to think, they have done their duty, when they have apparelled, nourished, and brought up their Children and Servants; considering they have a far greater account to make before God for their souls: of which if any should perish through their negligence, and unfaithfullness, how dreadfull will their account be? oh what p. 229answer will they be able to make, when the blood of their Children, and Servants souls shall be required of them?

CHAP. IV. An Exhortation unto all Parents and Masters of Families to make Conscience of Family-duties.

Use 2. LEt the second Use be an Use of Exhortation to stir up all Christian Parents, and Masters of Families, to be carefull that their whole house do faithfully serve the Lord,Officium pii patris familias est, liberos & familiam educare ad pietatem, &c. Piscat. in Gen. 18.19.Gen 18:19 as well as themselves; that they take up Ioshuah's resolution, as for me and my house we will serve the Lord. As you would not be guilty of the blood of your Children, and Servants souls; and as you would not have them cry out against you in everlasting fire, see that you bring them up in the fear and admonition of the Lord.

Every Governour should be that in the body politick of his own house, which the heart is in the natural body of man: as it communicateth life, and vital spirits to the rest of the members. So must the Master of the houshold endeavour to impart the spiritual life of grace, to all that are members of his body politick. And his house by a constant, conscionable performance of holy and religious duties there, should be a little Church. For the maintaining the Worship of God makes every house to become a sanctuary, an house of God. Hence divers pious Governours in the new Testament are said to have Churches in their houses,Philem. v. 6. as Philemo…, Aquila, and Priscilla, and Nimphas, whose houses were called Churches, 1 Cor. 16.19.1 Cor 16:19as in respect of the Saints in their houses, so in respect of the worship of God among them.Col. 4.15.Col 4:15 Oh what an honour will this be to us, p. 230when upon this account, our habitations shall be called rather Churches than private houses! Temples of God, rather than the dwellings of men!

For the more profitable pressing of this Use, I shall shew you, what be the duties and services which are especially required of Parents and Masters of Families in reference to those under their charge.

CHAP. V. Of Family Prayer, with quickning Motives thereunto.

I. PRayer, which is one principal part of the service of God in all Families, and therefore ought to be performed by the Governour thereof; who as he is a King to govern his Family, so a Priest to offer up a Morning and an Evening Sacrifice of Prayer and praise unto God in and with his Family. This we find commended to us in the practice of the Patriarchs, who when they removed to any place, they builded an Altar, where God was to be called upon by the whole Family. Thus did Abraham, Isaac, and Iacob. David though a King, yet prayed with his Houshold as their Governour:2 Sam. 6.18.2 Sam 6:18 for it is recorded of him, that having offered burnt-offerings, and peace-offerings before the Lord, he returned to bless his houshold, that is, say Expositors, to bless God with his Family, and to beg Gods blessing on them.

In the New Testament the Apostle writing to Masters of Families concerning their duties, adjoyneth this, continue in Prayer, Col. 4.2.Col 4:2implying it to be one special duty incumbent on them to be constant in Family-prayer. Of Cornelius it is said,Act. 10.2.Acts 10:2 that he was one who feared God with all his house, which gave much Almes to the people, and prayed to God alway; which implyeth, that he prayed p. 231daily with his Family. These examples are recorded by the Holy-Ghost as Copies for us to write after.

But for your more full conviction of that obligation that lyes upon you for the performance of this duty, let the following arguments be duly weighed.

Arg. 1. The first Argument shall be drawn from that trust that is committed unto governours of Families. Here observe,

1. That Governours of Families are intrusted with the souls, with the Religion of their Families: not that they may prescribe unto them, or impose upon them what way of Religion they please: or that inferiours may be excused by the errours or neglects of the Superiours: but it is committed to their care, and they have received a charge from the Lord, to look diligently to all that are under them; that they duly worship God, observe his ordinances, and keep …s statutes.

That there is such a care incumbent on them is evident under the Law, the Master of the Family was by the appointment of God, to look to the circumcising of all the Males of his house,Gen. 17. 10, &c.Gen 17:10 both those that were born in his house, and those that were bought with his money. In the fourth commandment, the Master of the Family is charged, not only to keep the Sabbath in his own person,Exod. 20.10.Exod 20:10 but to look to his family also. Thou shalt do no work therein, that's not all, nor thy Son, nor thy Daughter, nor thy Man-servant, nor thy Maid-servant, &c. Suitable to this charge is the care and holy resolution of Ioshua in the Text, I and my house will serve the Lord. Choose you whom you will serve, saith he, to the rest of the people, I have not so much to do with that, but as for me and my house, I must and will look to that, we will serve the Lord. Hence this first thing appears, that governours of Families are to take care of the Religion, and therrefore of the souls of their Families. When a Child is brought forth, when a Servant is brought into thine house, God sayes to thee as the man in the Prophets Parable,1 King 20.39.1 Kgs 20:39 Keep this man, look to this Child, look to this Servant, look to their souls, p. 232if they miscarry, or be lost through thy neglect, Thy life shall go for their lives, thy soul for their souls, and so shall thy judgement be.

2. Governours of Families have never faithfully discharged their trust till they have used all means which God hath appointed, that may be for the advantage of the souls under their charge, and the furtherance of them in Religion. If there be any thing you might have done that you have neglected, you are therein unfaithfull.

3. Their joyning in Prayer with their Families, is according to Gods appointment, and of great advantage to souls.

1. Ioynt-prayer is an ordinance of God. Thus much is hinted clearly enough in that form of Prayer, which Christ taught his Disciples, which runs in the plural number,Act. 12.12, &c.Acts 12:12 Our Father, Give us this day our daily bread. And from the practice of the primitive Christians. Now if Christians in general, such as were not of the same Family are by Gods appointment to joyn in Prayer; then much more Christians of the same family. Conjunction in the same Family-relation cannot hinder or discharge from any part of Christian communion. Families as well as greater assemblies should not forget their joynt-prayers.

2. Conjunction in Prayer, as it is Gods Ordinance, so 'tis of great advantage to souls. The joynt prayers of the several persons in a Family, are more acceptable to God, and more prevalent with him, than the Prayers of the same persons apart.

There's the same reason for the prevalency of the joynt-prayers of Christians of the same Family, as of the joynt-Prayers of Christians not of the same Family; of the same City, or Town, or Country. Now we find in Scripture from the practice of the people of God, that this was their concurrent judgement; that their coming together to pray, would prevail more with God, than their praying apart, as Act. 12.12. before mentioned. Many were gathered together in Maries p. 233house praying for Peter. If it had been all one as to the probability of the success, If the Lord had been as likely to have been prevailed with, for Peters enlargment, by their separate as by their joynt Prayers, they would never have run that hazard, as they did, by their coming together. They knew well enough what danger it would have been, had they been taken praying. Many instances might be brought of the like practice of Christians in all ages, who especially in cases of great exigencies and necessities did thus assemble. Whence is a clear foundation of this argument. That way of Prayer which the people of God did choose, and betake themselves to in cases of any special exigencies, that was in their judgement the most acceptable and prevailing. But joynt Prayer is such, in the case of greater societies, and therefore also in the less.

Besides, joynt-prayers will be of this advantage, It will be a great help to those that are less able, to teach them to pray apart. Governours should teach theirs to pray,Longum iter per precepta, breve per exempla. as Christ taught his Disciples. And how should they teach them? by instruction only! We may learn more of the skill, and Spirit of Prayer, by a few instructions exemplified, than by multitudes of counsels alone. The Nurse teaches the Child to speak by speaking in its hearing. By this Christian practice we shall suggest matter of Prayer to them, put words into their mouths, yea kindle desires in their hearts. Who that hath any experience knows not, how our affectionate enlargements, and importunate pleadings, and wrestlings with God in Prayer, do often warm and enlarge the hearts of those that joyn with us.

Arg. 2. Its the will of God that Christians should take and improve all opportunities, advantages, and occasions of Prayer. This proposition if it need proof,foreign. Per omnimodam precationem. A. Lapid. is sufficiently evident from 1 Tim. 2.8. I will that men Pray every where, and Eph. 6.18. Praying alwayes with all Prayer. Alwayes, or as it is in the Greek, on every opportunity; with All Prayer, with all manner of Prayer: in publick, in private, in secret, alone, together, as opportunity p. 234is offered and occasion requires. Now have not governours of Families, as such, special opportunities for joynt-Prayer? Their cohabitation, upon which they may meet more easily and frequently, than those that live at a greater distance; their authority by vertue whereof they may command the attendance of their families, puts opportunities into their hands.

And have they not also, as such, special occasions of joyning in Prayer? there are Family-mercies which they are joyntly concerned to pray for when wanted, and to acknowledge when received: There are Family-afflictions and crosses which they are in common concerned to pray against: there are Family sins which call for joynt-confessions, and humiliations. Those that have sinned together, or suffer together, or are sharers in the same common mercies, ought also to joyn together in the same confessions, petitions, and thanksgivings.

Arg 3. From the example of Christ, who not only taught his Family to Pray, but pray'd with them. His Disciples were his Family. The Passeover was to be eaten by the several Families apart, a Lamb for a Family. And if you would know who were Christs Family, enquire with whom he are the Passo…ver, these are his …isciples,Matth. 26.18, &c. Luk. 9.18.Matt 26:18Luke 9:18 and with these he prayed; As he was alone praying, his Disciples were with him. But how was he alone when his Discipl…s were wi…h h…m? the meaning only is, he was withdrawn from the multitude; he and his Disciples were privately together, and with them he prayes.

Now to gather up all together. If the example of Christ be obliging to his followers: if governours of Families have opportunities and occasions of joyning in Prayer with them; and it be the will of God that they take, and improve all opportunities and occasions: if governours of Families be intrusted with the souls of their Families, and this trust cannot be discharged, where this exercise is neglected, then must it be acknowledged that it is a duty incumbent on them from p. 235the Lord, and that they sin against God, who make no conscience of it.

To what hath been said, let me farther add these two things,

1. Consider the manifold benefits which usually follow and accompany this duty of Family-prayer.

1. It is a sanctifying Ordinance: thereby the Husband is sanctified to the wife, and the wife to the husband, so that they prove blessings and comforts each to other. Children likewise are blessed and sanctified to their Parents; and Servants to their Masters. Yea Family-prayer produceth Gods blessing upon their callings, and enjoyments, upon their losses and crosses, both are thereby blessed and sanctified unto them.

2. Family-prayer, as it is a sanctifying ordinance, so it is a seasoning ordinance; it seasons the whole house with the fear of God. It is recorded of Cornelius, that he was a devout man, one that feared God with all his house, who prayed to God alwayes: his constant course of praying with his Family, questionless did season his whole house with the fear of God. As Prayer-less Families are for the most part destitute of the fear of God: so in those Families where a constant course of Praying is kept up, there the hearts of many are seasoned with the true fear of God.Gen. 24.11.Gen 24:11 As Abraham was a Praying-master, so he had praying-servants. For inferiours are very apt to write after the Copy of their Superiours, and to follow their example. Thus by a praying Master, Children and Servants are taught to Pray.

3. Family-prayer is a special preservative against common calamities. Polanus in his Syntagm, relateth how in the year 1584. there was such a terrible Earth-quake that overthrew all the houses in a whole Town in Switzerland, save one, wherein the Master of the Family was at the same time praying with his Wife, Children and Servants. If God doth not preserve praying-families from those common judgements and calamities which befall others, yet he will so sanctifie those calamities p. 236unto them, that they shall turn to their good; according to that gracious promise,Rom. 8.28.Rom 8:28 All things shall work together for good, to them that love God.

V. Consider the manifold mischiefs that usually sollow and accompany the neglect of Family-prayer. As,

1. Neglect of Family-prayer is usually accompanied with the neglect of all other Religious duties, which is found true by sad experience. For, whoever heard that the Scriptures were read, or Catechising used in any Family where Prayer was omitted? So that Prayer-less houses are as Sepulchres wherein all Religion lyes buried.

2. Neglect of Family-prayer expos…th the whole houshold to the wrath and fury of God, as the Prophet Ieremiah implyeth,Jer. 10.25.Jer 10:25 where he saith, Pour out thy fury upon the Heathen that know thee not, and upon the Families that call not upon thy name. Where by the fury of God, is meant his wrath in the highest degree, his anger boyled up to the height. Oh who can abide this scalding wrath? And by pouring out Gods fury, is meant Gods inflicting his fierce wrath in the greatest measure, in the highest degree. The words though they are set down in the form of a Prayer, yet they are a prediction (as well as a petition) of Gods dreadfull wrath and fury, to be undoubtedly inflicted upon all Prayerless-families. For the Prophet put up this Prayer unto God, as foreseeing the certain ruin and destruction of such Families, as called not upon the name of the Lord: He knew that God would assuredly pour out his fury upon their Families, who did not pour out their souls unto him. Oh that all Masters and Governours would seriously think, and meditate on this fearfull imprecation of the Prophet against all Prayerless-families; that so they might dread the omission of so necessary a duty, as much as the scorching wrath and fury of God; yea as the scorching fire of hell: for what is hell it self, but the feeling of this wrath and fury of God?

I shall close this with answering three Questions, and as many Objections.

p. 2371. Q. How often should we Pray with our Families?

A. 1. Every day. For first our Saviour hath intimated so much unto us in his plat-form of Prayer, by teaching us to Pray for our daily bread, in these words, Give us this day our daily bread; that is, bread needfull for the present day. And in regard we daily stand in need of bread, therefore our Saviour would have us pray daily for the same.

2. Have you not daily wants to be supplyed? wants for your selves, and wants for your Children, and Servants? Have you not daily infirmities in your Family to be healed? Are you not daily subject to dangers and temptations? And do you not daily sin against God? Is it not necessary then that you daily Pray unto God, for the supply of all your wants, for the healing of all your infirmities, for the preventing of the dangers you are daily subject unto, for the strengthning you against all your temptations, for the pardoning of all your sins. Surely our daily wants, our daily infirmities, our daily dangers, our daily temptations, and our daily sins, do all call upon us for daily prayers.

And as you and yours daily partake of Gods mercies, is it not just and equal, that you all should daily bless God for the same? The truth is, every day supplyeth new matter both of Prayer and praise, and therefore there is just cause daily to offer up our Sacrifice of Prayer and praise unto God.

2. Q. How oft in each day are we bound to pray with our Families?

A. Family-prayer ought to be performed twice at least, viz. In the Morning and in the Evening.

1. For first this is commended unto us by the Morning and Evening Sacrifice under the Law,Exod. 29.38, 39.Exod 29:38Exod 29:39 which we find given in command unto the Jews. And are not Christians under the Gospel, as well as those under the Law, obliged to offer up their Morning and Evening Sacrifice?

2. Equity requireth this duty at your hands; as the mercies of God are renewed upon you and yours every p. 238Morning, and the showres of his compassion fall down upon you every night, so you should not forget to offer up both a Morning, and an Evening Sacrifice of Prayer, and praise unto him, who is so continually mindfull of you.

3. Q. What time in the Morning and Evening is fittest for the performance of Family-prayer?

A. For this no certain rule can be prescribed, in regard of the several occasions which may fall out in a Family; and by reason of age, sickness and the like in the Governours thereof. Yet it were to be wished that the Morning Sacrifice (if possibly) may be betimes in the Morning, before Servants go about the works of their calling; as being the fittest time for holy exercises, when the Spirits are freshest, and freest from Wordly thoughts and distractions.

And it were to be wished, that the Evening Sacrifice may be before Supper, in regard that afterwards we are generally more heavy and sleepy; and will find it more difficult to keep up our hearts, and spirits in the duty.

Having thus resolved the Questions, come we now to the Objections raised against the duty of Family-prayer.

CHAP. VI. Objections against Family-prayer, Answered.

1. Obj. SOme Object their inability to pray, they know not how to perform the duty.

A. 1. Let the sense of thine own weakness drive thee unto God for power, and strength. Beg of him that he would by his Spirit help thine infirmities, teaching thee to pour out thy soul unto him in Prayer. For it is he alone that can teach thee,Rom. 8.26.Rom 8:26 and endue thee with this Heavenly gift.

p. 2392. Be constant in thy secret devotions, which will be a special means to embolden thee to pray with thy Family. For when thou findest that thou canst express thy self in any competent measure in secret, thou wilt then the better adventure to Pray in private, with thy Family. And know this for thy comfort, that if thou sincerely endeavourest to do what thou canst, God will enable thee to do what thou shouldst.

3. Rather than the apprehension of thine own insufficiency to pray, should occasion a constant omission of the duty, I would advise thee to use the help of a form of Prayer for a while, till by Gods blessing, thou hast attained some ability therein, and boldness thereunto.

2. Obj. Some against this duty object their multitude of business, and little spare time for Family-prayer.

A. 1. The more and greater thy businesses are, the more and greater need thou hast of Family-prayer, for the obtaining Gods blessings thereon: without which all thy pains and endeavours may signifie little, yea prove succesless. Assure thy self that the time spent in Prayer, both in thy closet, and with thy Family, will prove no let, but rather a great furtherance to thy business.

2. Dost thou put off praying with thy Family for the multitude of business? Know that therein thou art penny-wise, and pound-foolish, hazarding the loss of thy precious and immortal soul for the gaining of a little Worldly pelf, which will be soon taken from thee, or thou from it: Oh that such Wo…d…ngs would seriously consider that expression of our Saviour▪ Mark 8 36.Mark 8:36What shall it profit a man, if h… shall gain the who…e World, and lose his own soul?

3. Dost thou put off Family-prayer for the multitude of Worldly bu…inesse…, thereby to encrease thy wealth? Know that that wealth is cursed, which is thus gotten; that substance which is the price of a Prayer may for ought thou knowest be the price of blood.

p. 240Well, beware thou neglect not this great duty upon any pretence whatsoever. Neither let it be performed after a cold, formal, and perfunctory manner: but be very serious, and fervent therein, stirring up thy self to an active, lively performance thereof, which the Apostle intimateth, where he saith, Be fervent in Spirit, serving the Lord; and that for two reasons.

1. Such Prayers only are acceptable and pleasing unto God, these are the Sacrifices wherewith he is well-pleased.

2. Such only have the promise of being heard. And thereupon saith the Apostle St. Iames, Jam. 5.16.Jas 5:16The effectual fervent Prayer of a right…ous man availeth much. The word in the Greek translated effectual, properly signifieth a prayer excited, foreignor stirred up: and so implyeth both the efficacy and influency of the Holy-Ghost, and the vehemency of an earnest spirit and affection, which is the only prevailing Prayer.

CHAP. VII. Of Reading the Holy Scriptures in Families, with quickning Motives thereunto.

II. ANother duty incumbent upon Parents and Masters of Families, is frequently to read the Holy Scriptures, or to cause them to be read in and with their Families. Though this be a distinct exercise from the former, of Prayer: yet do they mutually help one another, and therefore are fit to be joyned together.

Exod. 30.7, 8.Exod 30:7Exod 30:8We read how the Priest under the Law was daily to light the Lamps, and to burn incense; as the Lamp signified the Word of God, so the incense signified Prayer. And as the Lamp was daily to be lighted, and the incense daily to be burned, so are we thereby taught, daily to joyn the Word and Prayer together; for as the Apostle speaketh, By the Word and Prayer every thing is sanctified. 1 Tim. 4.5.1 Tim 4:5Yea this duty of reading the Word we find given in p. 241command unto housholders under the Law, for saith the Lord,Exod. 11.28.Exod 11:28 Ye shall lay up my words, (meaning the words of the Law) in your heart, and in your soul. And ye shall teach them your Children, speaking of them when thou sitest in thine house, when thou lyest down, and when thou risest up, which implyeth a diligent reading of the Word in their houses. Yea the old people of the Iews were so diligent in teaching their Children the Word of God, that Iosephus saith,Nostrorum quilibet de legibus interrogatus, facilius quam nomen suum recitat universas, Josephus lib. 2. contra Appionem. Every one of our people being asked concerning the Laws, rehearseth them more easily than his own name.

In the New Testament we have the Apostles command for this duty, for saith he, (a)(a)Col. 3.16. foreign.Col 3:16Let the Word of Christ dwell in you richly. The Word is sometimes taken for (b)(b)Joh. 1.1. foreign.John 1:1Christ himself, and so it is true, that we should labour that the word Christ should dwell in us. But by the Word of Christ is here meant the written Word of God, which is here called the Word of Christ, both because he is the author of it, and because he is the chief subject of it. And whereas the Apostle saith, Let the Word of Christ dwell in you, it is a Metaphor taken from such as dwell under one and the same roof with us, and noteth two things,

1. That we must get it into our hearts, and houses as well as into our Churches.

2. That by our frequent reading of it, and causing it to be read in our houses, it should be as familiar with us, as one that dwells with us under the same roof.

For the better pressing of this duty upon the Consciences of Parents and Masters of Families; I shall hint only two Motives to quicken you up thereunto.

1. The knowledge of the Scriptures will be an excellent means to keep up your authority in your Families, over your Children and Servants. For therein they cannot but hear, and understand, it is their duty to be obedient to you in all things. Your own commands and threatnings may perhaps cause them to serve you with eye-service, as menpleasers… ; but to hear the commands and threatnings of God in his Word, may cause them to serve you in singleness p. 242of heart. So that if nothing else, yet policy, methinks, should prevail with you to cause the Word of God to be read frequently in your houses.

2. Some by reading the Scriptures, others by hearing it read in the Family, have been converted from the state of nature, to the state of grace. For faith may be wrought in us by hearing the Word read, as well as hearing it Preached. St. Austine reports of an Aegyptian Monk who living in a Christian-family,August. Prolog. lib. 1. de Doctrina Christi. where the Word of God was frequently read, was thereby converted to the Christian faith.

And indeed there is a greater vertue in the holy Scriptures, than in any other book, for the working of conversion in the hearts of natural Men and Women. Oh what an encouragement should this be unto Parents and Masters of Families, to cause the holy Scriptures to be frequently read in their houses! for what know they whether some under their charge may not thereby be converted.

And that your reading may be the more profitable, observe these few directions.

1. Before you read, lift up your heart unto God in some short Prayer, beseeching him who is the Father of light, to enlighten the blind eyes of your understandings, that you may understand what you read, so to strengthen your memories, that you may remember it, and that he would give you. Wisdom to apply, faith to believe, and grace to practise what you read.

Which Prayer is necessary before reading, because as the Apostle speaketh,1 Cor. 2.14.1 Cor 2:14 Naturally we understand not the things of the Spirit of God, neither can we know them, because they are spiritually discerned. And it is only the Spirit of God that revealeth them unto us, which we have no hope to attain, but by fervent Prayer.

2. The Word must be read and heard with all holy reverence and attention, as being the Word of the great God, whereby he revealeth himself and his will cleerly unto us, for the building us up in all grace and Godliness.

p. 2433. In reading every one ought to take special notice of such passages as are either more weighty in themselves, or proper to them, for their particular cases, use and occasion.

4. In reading, or hearing any portion of Scripture, let every one apply it to himself as spoken to him. By this means may every one be much edified by every part of the Word of God.

CHAP. VIII. Of Family-Catechising with quickning Motives thereunto.

III. ANother duty incumbent upon Parents, and Masters of Families in reference to those under their charge, is to instruct them in the principles of Religion in a Catechistical way. foreign, rudimenta Religionis docere.For to Catechise is to teach the first principles of Christian Religion, whereby they who are young may be acquainted with God betimes.

This we find given in command unto Housholders under the Law,Deut. 6.6, 7.Deut 6:6Deut 6:7 for saith the Lord, Th…se words which I command thee this day shall be in thine heart, and thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy Children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou lyest down, and when thou risest up. Where by Children are not meant only natural Children, but likewise servants, it being usual with the Hebrews by Children to understand all under subjection. We have a Prophesie that there shall be,Psal. 72.17.Ps 72:17 as it were, a succession of Christs name from generation to generation; His name shall end…re sor ever, his name shall be continued as long as the Sun, Filiabitur nomen ejus, sive propagabitur.or as the phrase imports, His name shall pass from Father to Son. Every Father then must by Christian instruction declare the name of Christ to his Son, that so the name of Christ p. 244may pass from Father to Son, from generation to generation: which prophesie concerns the time of the Gospel,Eph. 6.4. foreign.Eph 6:4 wherein Parents are commanded to bring up their Children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord; or to nurture them up in instruction, as the word in the Greek properly signifieth.

This duty is commended to us by the example of Godly Housholders in all ages. I know, saith God of Abraham, Gen. 18.19.Gen 18:19that he will command his Children and his Houshold after him, to keep the way of the Lord. We likewise find David often instructing his Son Solomon, 1 Chron. 28.9.

And that this was the practice of the Saints in the time of the Gospel, appeareth from the expressions of the Apostle,Heb. 5.12. Heb. 6.1.Heb 5:12Heb 6:1 Ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the Oracles of God. And leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ; which imply a form of Catechism, which was used by the Christians in those dayes. And oh that all Christian Parents, and governours of Families in our dayes, would make conscience of instructing, and teaching their Children, and Servants in the principles of Religion, out of some good Catechism, Observing these two Caveats.

1. That this duty be done frequently, on some day or dayes every week.

2. That it be done by little at once, for to be too long, or tedious therein is apt to dull the understanding, and to cause wearisomeness in the learner.

For the better pressing this duty I shall add a few motives or arguments,

**Pro. 22 6. Quo semel est imbuta recens servabit odorē Testa diu. Horat. ad Lollium Epist. lib. 1. Ep. 2.Prov 22:6I. The first Argument or Motive may be taken from the benefits which will follow thereupon;

1. Timely instruction will season their hearts that they are like to be better for it all the dayes of their lives; and therefore saith the Wise man, Trai… up (or as the Word signifieth, Catechise) a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it. But as a Vessel will retain long the savour of that liquor it was seasoned first withall. So will men, the instructions they have learned in their youth.

p. 2452. It is an excellent means to keep them from the errours and heresies of the times: For Children well Catechised, and instructed in the principles of Religion, are in great measure antidoted against the danger of seducing doctrines.1 Cor. 11.19. Mat. 16.6.1 Cor 11:19Matt 16:6 The Apostle saith, There must be heresies, which are of a spreading nature, and therefore by our Saviour compared to Leaven.

What better preservative against the infection of false doctrines, errours, and heresies, than to be well Catechised? Observe who they be that are easiest seduced by false teachers, who they are that have embraced their erroneous tenets, and you shall find, that they were such, who were never well Catechised, nor grounded in the principles of Religion. As therefore you would not have your Children, and Servants poysoned with the erroneous Doctrines of false teachers, do your endeavours to get them well rooted and grounded in the knowledge of the truth.

3. It is an excellent means to make them hear the publick Ministry of the Word with more profit. For thereby they will be enabled to Examine the Doctrine which they hear, by the analogie of faith. It is foretold, that in the latter dayes there shall be false teachers, 2 Pet. 2.1.2 Pet 2:1who shall privily bring in damnable heresies; And therefore we are not to receive all for truth, which is delivered in the Pulpit, but as the Apostle exhorteth us,1 Thes. 5.21.1 Thess 5:21 to prove and try all things, and to hold fast only that which is good, which we shall never be able to do, unless we be first well Catechised, and instructed in the principles of Religion; as also well acquainted with the Scriptures.

If therefore you who are Parents, and Masters of Families would discharge your duty herein: how would Errours vanish? Religion flourish? and how would knowledge and grace abound in your Children and Servants?

II. Another argument may be taken from the manifold damages, which usually follow a neglect of Family Catechising.

1. It is the ground of that ignorance, and spiritual p. 246blindness which overfloweth this Nation. For as darkness proceedeth from the want of light, so ignorance must needs proceed from the want of teaching.

2. It is the ground of that looseness and prophaneness that is in many Families. For where Gods service hath no place, there sin will be sure to have free place. Where the light of knowledge is not set up by Catechising, there the deeds of darkness will be sure to break forth. Where there is no sp…aking to God by Prayer, nor speaking of God by Catechising, you may be sure, there will be speaking against God, and all the wayes of holiness.

4. It is the ground of that barrenness, and unfruitfulness under the Means of grace, that is to be found amongst many in these dayes. For were Children and Servants better Catechised, they would better understand the mysteries of the Gospel; and much more profit by the Ministry of the Word, than they do. It is found by experience that the most intelligent and best practised hearers are such, as have been well Catechised, and instructed? The seed which thou thus timely sowest, will spring up to a plentifull harvest.

4. Such Parents, and Masters as neglect this duty, do what in them lyeth to damn their Children, and Servants as well as themselves. For how can it be expected but that those Children and Servants, who through want of the light of knowledge walk in darkness, should unavoidably stumble into hell? Oh that so many Parents and Masters should be so cruel and unnatural to their Children and Servants, as to neglect this duty! the blood of souls is upon you.

Obj. Against this so necessary a duty, some are apt to object and say, To what purpose should we Catechise our Children, considering that through the tenderness of their years, they are not capable of the Mysteries of Salvation?

A. 1. Though Children are not so capable of apprehending cleerly the mysteries of salvation, as they will be afterwards: yet none can deny them to understand so much as to be capable of the seeds of grace, which daily experience confirmeth.

p. 2472. It is found by sad experience, that Children uncatechised, as they grow in years, so they grow in sin and wickedness: whereby they become more backward and untoward to the learning of any thing that is good, yea and opposite thereunto. If you do not, the Devil will Catechise them betimes, and of him they will quickly learn. O prevent as much as may be that enemies sowing his tares: be before hand with him: take the first season to cast in your good seed. The first season is the fittest season.

Obj. Should we constantly observe these Religious exercises in our Families, which you thus press upon us, we should hinder our servants work, and thereby hazard our estates, and so shew our selves worse than Infidels.

A. 1. This is a meer delusion of Satan to keep you from the discharge of your duty. For know assuredly that the time spent in religious exercises with your Family, is so far from hindering your servants work, that it will rather further it, and bring such a blessing upon it, that shall return upon your selves. For profit, and increase is the gift of God, who will give it to such as fear him, and observe his commandments. Oh then say not of Family-duties, as Iudas did of that oyntment, which Mary poured on our Saviours feet, why is this waste? Think not that time waste and lost, which is spent in the service of God, and in the performance of the duties of your places and relations.

2. A wilfull neglect of Family-duties is like to bring the curse of God upon your estates, yea upon your selves, and all that belong unto you. Read what Moses saith in Deut. 28.15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20.

3. Who can produce the man that did really suffer in his estate by the loss of that time, which he spent with, and for God? Surely as the whetting of the Sythe is no hinderance, but rather a furtherance of the Workman: So the exercises of Religion can be no hinderance to your Family-affairs, but rather a great furtherance,Psal. 127.1, 2.Ps 127:1Ps 127:2 unless you think this an hinderance, to stay to take Gods blessing along with you; without which p. 248what are all your own and servants pains but vain, and fruitless?

4. Suppose you should suffer somewhat in your estate by the loss of that time which you spend upon Religion: you will have no cause to repent thereof. For whilest others with Martha, Luk. 10.41, 42.Luke 10:41Luke 10:42are carefull and troubled about Worldly things, thou with Mary hast chosen the better part. Thou hast lost a little of thy Temporals, to gain Spirituals and Eternals for thy self and thine.Quae insania est, ô miserrimi! ut haeredes alios faciatis, vos ipsos exhaeredetis: ut alios relinquatis vel brevi divites, vos ipsos aeternâ mendicitate dam…ctis? Salv. How wise are those men who prefer Temporals before their Eternals, and will advance their estates upon the ruines of their souls?

CHAP. IX. Of Sabbath sanctification in Families.

IV. ANother duty incumbent upon Parents, Masters, and governours of Families is, To look to the sanctification of the Lords-Day, to see that the Christian Sabbath be sanctified as by themselves, so by their whole Family, even by all under their charge. This is expressly enjoyned in the fourth Commandment, which is directed not so much to Children and Servants, as to Parents and Masters of Families, who are there commanded, not only in their own persons, to keep holy the Sabbath day; but to see that their Children, and Servants do it also. For thus the Commandment runs, The seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord thy God;Exod. 20.10.Exod 20:10 In it thou shalt not do any work, Thou, nor thy Son, nor thy Daughter, thy Man-servant, nor thy Maid-servant. Which Phrase (as Zanchy well noteth) implyeth that it is the duty of Parents, Zanch. in 4. Praeceptum.and Masters of Families to see, that their Children, and Servants do not any way prophane the Sabbath-day, but that they keep it as an holy rest.

p. 249The sanctification of the Sabbath consists,

1. In a resting upon the day.

2. In a consecrating that rest to the Worship and service of God.

Therefore it is the duty of all Parents, and Masters of Families to take care, that both themselves, and all under their charge, do keep it,

1. As a day of rest.

2. As an holy rest.

I. As a day of rest, resting in special from all the works of their ordinary calling. The very name Sabbath (which in Hebrew signifieth rest) and the express prohibition in the fourth Commandment of doing any work on that day, do shew that it is a day of rest.

How blame-worthy then are some Masters, who contrary to the express command of God, do set their Servants about the ordinary work of their calling on the Lords day. Let such know that what is got by their Servants work on that day, is but the gain of wickedness, which will prove their loss at last.

II. It is the duty of Masters to take care, that their Families keep the Lords day as an holy rest, by consecratng that time which they set apart from their Worldly business, to the worship and service of God, in the duties belonging to such an holy-day. For the Sabbath was not simply ordained, that we, and our servants should rest from our bodily labour, but that we should in a special manner worship God on that day. So much is implyed both in the first and last words of the fourth Commandement. In the beginning it is said Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy. And in the close it is added, The Lord blessed the Sabbath day, and hallowed it, that is, sanctified it, and set it apart to be wholly consecrated to him, and to his worship and service.

That Parents and Masters of Families may the better discharge their duty herein, observe these directions,

1. Look that your Children and Servant go with you p. 250to the Ministry of the Word, and let none be left behind, without necessary and urgent occasion; It being the ordinary means God hath sanctified for the reforming of their lives, and the saving of their souls. When Iacob went to Bethel to Worship,Gen. 35.2, 3.Gen 35:2Gen 35:3 he took his whole houshold with him. When Elka…ah went up to offer unto the Lord his Sacrifice,1 Sam. 1.21.1 Sam 1:21 all his house went with him. In like manner do thou carry thy houshold with thee to the house of God.

2. After the publick Ordinances be carefull to call together all under thy charge, and let there be a repetition of the Sermons Preached, either by thy self, or some one of thy Family, who can write best: And then examine them one after another, What they remember of the Sermons they have heard, labouring to make them plain unto them, and to apply them also. Thus did our blessed Saviour with his beloved Disciples, for after his Preaching, when he was come home, he said unto them,Mat. 13.51.Matt 13:51 Have ye understood all these things, which ye have heard.Mark 4.34Mark 4:34 And Mark saith, When they were alone, he expounded all things to his Disciples. Whereupon one observeth,Christus suo exemplo, &c. Chemnit. exam. That Christ by his example doth instruct every Master of a Family how to carry himself in reference to those under his charge, on the Lords dayes, after their departure from the publick Congregation.

And truly much good will hereby redound, as unto your selves, so likewise unto all under your charge. For,

1. It will make them give better attention unto the Ministry of the Word, when they know they shall be called to an account, and examined what they have heard.

2. It would much help and confirm as your selves so your Children and Servants in the understanding and believing of what hath been delivered publickly by the Minister, if you would repeat and search the proofs of Scripture, which were brought for the confirmation of the doctrine.

III. Another du…y to be performed in and with p. 251your Families for the better sanctification of the Lords day, is singing of Psalms, which as it was much practised by the Saints and people of God of old under the Law; so is it both a lawfull and a meet thing to be used by Christians now under the Gospel, and that as publickly in the Church, so privately in the Family.

1. We find it was an ancient custome of the people of God to sing Psalms in their Families, according to that of the Psalmist,Psal. 118.15.Ps 118:15 the voice of rejoycing is in the Tabernacle of the righteous: that is, in the dwelling places and houses of good men.

2. We have our Saviour herein for a pattern, of whom it is recorded, that after the eating of the Passeover, Mat. 26.30.Matt 26:30which was in a private house, he sung a Psalm with his Family.

IV. Another duty to be performed in and with your Family, for the better …anctification of the Lords day, is Reading some part of the holy Scriptures, whereof before Chap. VII. As also some good Sermon, or Treatise of practical truths.

V. Another duty is Family-prayer. Whereof before Chap. VI.

VI. Another is, Catechising those under your charge, whereof see Chap. VIII. A conscionable performance of these will exceedingly help forward the sanctification of the Lords day, and that without tediousness.

VII. Another duty incumbent on Parents, and Masters, is godly conference. Conferring before your Children and Servants about some good and profitable matter, especially of the Sermons you have heard. The counsel which the Apostle giveth concerning our words, and discourses, as it ought to be carefully observed and followed by us at all times, so especially on the Lords day.Eph. 4.29.Eph 4:29 Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouths, but that which is good, to the use of edi…ing; that is, to the winning of them who are not converted, or to the further building up of those who are already converted.

And the Prophet Isaiah forbiddeth the speaking our p. 252Isa. 58.13.Isa 58:13own words on the Sabbath day, that is, all discourses which are meerly Worldly, and about earthly things, more than charity and necessity requireth; Under which prohibition, of not speaking our own words, is implyed a direction to speak the word of God, or those things which tend to the honour of God, and the spiritual good of others.

VIII. That you may the better discharge your duty in looking to the sanctification of the Lords day; Be sure you suffer none under your roof to spend any part thereof, either in idleness, or in sports and pastimes.

1. Not i… idleness, it being not a day of idleness, but of spiritual action.

2. Not in sports and pastimes, especially such as tend to carnal and sensual delight. For the Lord hath forbidden every man the following his own pleasure on his holy day. Isa. 58.13.Isa 58:13And the truth is, sports and pastimes are greater impediments to the worship and service of God, than the ordinary works of our calling, in that they do more subtilly steal away the heart from holy duties than those do.Quanto melius est arare quam salt are in Sabbato. Aug. in Enarratio…em tituli Psalm 91.Ps 91 Whereupon St. Austin thought it better to plow on the Lords day, than to dance and sport.

Obj. Some Object and plead the hard labour their servants have undergone the week before, and thence think they may be allowed a little recreation on the Lords day.

A. 1. The rest of the Lords day is the best and fittest recreation for the refreshing of their bodies who have been tired with labour the six dayes before. And if they be spiritually minded, the best and fittest recreation for the refreshing of their souls is singing of Psalms, the perusing their spiritual evidences for Heaven, the solacing themselves in the meditation of Christ, of what he hath done and suffered for them, holy conference, and the like.

2. If you think bodily recreations necessary for your servants health, why do you not rather allow them some part of your own time on the week-dayes, than to rob God of any part of his day, which he hath p. 253wholly appropriated to the duties of his Worship and service. Whereas the Lord might have reserved six dayes for himself, and allowed but one unto us, he hath dealt so bountifully and graciously with us, as to reserve but one to himself, and leave six for our business. And shall we be so ungratefull as to encroach upon it, and Sacrilegiously steal away some part of that small time which he hath reserved to himself, for our Servants recreation?

CHAP. X. Of Exemplary lives in Parents and Masters of Families.

V. ANother duty incumbent on Parents, and Masters of Families is, To shew themselves patterns of piety, and Godliness unto their Children, and Servants by an holy, and righteous conversation; That they may say unto them,Judg. 7.17.Judg 7:17 as Gideon did to his followers, look on me, and do likewise. This we find practised by Abraham, of whom God himself giveth this Testimony,Gen. 18.19.Gen 18:19 I know Abraham, that he will command his Children, and his houshold after him to keep the way of the Lord. Whereby is implyed, that Abraham would go before his houshold, in keeping the way of the Lord, and they would follow after him. And Ioshua testifieth as much of himself,Josh. 24.15.Josh 24:15 As for me and my house we will serve the Lord; He would be a pattern of piety and Godliness unto his houshold, and they should follow his good example. And David likewise resolveth as much for himself,Psal. 101.2.Ps 101:2 for saith he, I will walk within my house with a perfect heart, intending to become a pattern of piety and Godliness to his houshold by an holy and righteous conversation.

The better to quicken up Parents and Masters of Families hereunto. I shall hint a few Arguments, and Motives.

p. 2541. Your lives are looked upon as Presidents, your examples as rules, by your Children and Servants: and therefore you ought to be exemplarily holy, and religious. What the Wise man saith of one sin in a Ruler, If a Ruler hearken to lyes, all his servants are wicked, is true in other sins: If a ruler, or master of a Family be a swearer, a drunkard, a Sabbath-breaker or the like; his servants are so too, or will quickly become such. For patterns are very prevalent both to Vice, and Vertue; especially the patterns of Superiours. Inferiours are very apt to follow the example of Superiours, and to tread in their steps. How ordinary is it for wicked Parents to have bad Children, and prophane Masters to have wicked Servants; And no marvel, seeing Children and Servants are apt to follow the evil example of their Parents and Masters, and to write after their copy. How carefull then should Parents and Masters of Families be of their lives and conversation, that they be holy and righteous, and not loose and scandalous, lest their Children and Servants should follow after them to Hell.

2. Your holy and righteous lives will draw honour and reverence from your Children and Servants. For, the Image of God, which consisteth in true holiness and righteousness, carryeth such a Majesty in it, that it commandeth honour and reverence from others. If therefore you who are Parents and Masters will with David, walk within your houses with perfect and upright hearts, shewing your selves patterns of piety, and Godliness, your Children, and Servants cannot but honour and respect you;1 Sam. 2.30.1 Sam 2:30 For them that honour me, saith God, I will honour, that is, I will make them to be held in honourable esteem by others. I grant indeed some are therefore despised, because they walk holily and unblameably. Yet such, as they are truly honourable in themselves, so are they honourable in the eyes and esteem of many others. For there is more true worth in the least grace,Isa. 43.4Isa 43:4 than in all earthly glory. Since thou wast precious in my sight, thou hast been honourable, saith God of his despised people. Such Parents therefore, p. 255and Masters, as by their Godly lives and conversations are precious in the sight of God, they shall be honoured by their Children and Servants. But on the other side such Parents and Masters of Families as by their wicked li…es and ungodly conversations are vile in the sight of God, they shall be despised, and lightly esteemed by their Children and Servants. For if Children and Servants perceive their Parents and Masters to be Lyars, Swearers, Drunkards, Sabbath-breakers, and the like; How can they honour and respect them?Lam. 1.8.Lam 1:8 That which is said of Ierusalem, All that honoured her, despised her, because they have seen her nakedness; may be applyed to wicked and prophane Parents and Masters of Families; Their Children and their Servants who should most have honoured them, cannot but despise them; because they have seen their nakedness. And this questionless is one special reason why most Parents and Masters have so little reverence and honour from their Children and Servants.

3. Such is the infectious property of sin, that if a Parent, or Master of a Family be a Swearer, Drunkard, Scoffer at Religion, &c. he is like by a contagious insinuation and evil example to inf…ct his whole Family, even his own Children and Servants. And therefore sin is not unfitly resembled to the Leprosie, which quickly over-spreadeth the whole house. And it is observable that the more publick the persons are, the more dangerous are their sins. Private mens sins are but like the errours of a Pocket-watch, which usually misleads only the keeper of it. But the sins of a Master of a Family are like the errours of an house-clock, which is apt to mislead the whole Family. Oh how carefull then ought Parents and Masters of Families to be of their lives and conversations, lest by their evil example they corrupt and poison their own Children and Servants.

4. What will it avail Parents, and Masters of Families, to teach their Children, and Servants the fear of God, to walk in his wayes, when they themselves p. 256manifest little fear of God in their lives and conversations; but contrariwise are loose, and wanton; wicked and prophane. For certainly as good examples are the life of instruction, to make it profitable and effectual: so evil examples are the death, and bane of good instruction, to make it unprofitable and ineffectual. That Parent therefore or Master who reproveth sin in his Child or Servant, must be free from that sin himself;Mat. 7.5.Matt 7:5 otherwise it will be said, Thou Hypocrite first cast the beam out of thine own eye, and then thou shalt see clearly to cast out the moat out of thy brothers eye. Yea and he must be free from all other scandalous sins, otherwise the Child may say, My Father reproveth me for lying, but he himself will Swear. And the Servant may say, my Master reproveth me for Drunkenness, and he himself is Covetous. That therefore thy Family-reproof and admonition may be profitable, thou must be sure to be, at least, unblameable in thy life, and conversation; that thou maist not be guilty of that sin, which thou condemnest in thy Child, or Servant. For thereby thou wilt pass a sentence of death, and condemnation upon thine own soul.

FINIS.