Subjection to Christ in All His Ordinances 2, Text (3 of 3)

Subjection to Christ in All His Ordinances 2 · Text (3 of 3)

p. 57Answ. 2.Answ. 2. 'Tis true, they are to watch and admonish in way of Christian duty; but others in way of p. 58Christs authority, as being his Ambassadors, and sent of him; as in a family, one servant should watch over another; but the chief Steward, he is to do it with authority in the absence of his Lord. And hence doth it with more majesty and power, and it takes, or should take deeper impression; so it is in Elders of a Church.

Hence also, when men shall cry for liberty to speak, an Elder forbids it; What, may not the Church have liberty? true, but you are not a Church. An Elder reproves, and they will reprove again: What, shall not the Church have liberty? An Elder gives reasons strong, and unanswerable for some thing to be done; a young fellow shall step up, and say, without ground, or shew of it, that's your light, and mine is otherwise: What, may not the Church have liberty? Yes, but you are not the Church; this is very sad, and hath been a root of greatest scandall that ever Gods wayes had. If Elders sin openly, 'tis another case, and somewhat also is there to be done; Submit your selves one to another, much more to an Elder, &c.

33. In the execution of their office according to Christ, they are over the whole Church. Their persons indeed ase under them, in case they sin, and sin in the execution of their office, they are to be subject, not only to the whole, but to the last Member of the Church: Suppose the sin be not only suspected, or reported, or apprehended by one, but two or three witnesses at least, as 1 Tim. 5. 19. but whiles they execute it according to Christ, they are therein above the Church, and 'tis bound to be subject therein; and not to be subject, is to refuse to be under Christs government. Hence, Heb. 13. Obey them that rule you; he speaks to the whole Church, which was not in evill, but in good things according to God; and yet in evill things, look on them as those over them. Exempli gratiâ, A Minister in the execution of his office, let him preach Christs eternall truth, deliver it and prove it; What ever humane weaknesses there be in him, what ever darknesse there is in others, yet he is therein above Churches, Kings or Angels; and they shall answer it at the great day, that do not submit. In regard of my person said Luther, I'le fall down before any, but in regard of the truth I administer, I look on the Kings of the earth as nits, nay dust, &c. ad Regem Angl.

So in the power of the Keys in opening and shutting out p. 59Members; they have tried and proved such a one; if they sin, as they may, then give them reasons; but if not, they are bound to submit. And that not as unto other Christians, but as unto an Ordinance, stampt with an authority of God upon them; in …eed they are not to do any such thing without the presence, consent, and judiciary power of the Church; and the Church may not submit to what Elders propose to be Christs mind; but then they cast …ff the Lords power, which they are to answer for another day. 1 Cor. 12. 28. they are called Governours. Now as a Ruler of a Ship is to order it, though a King be in it, over him in that respect, and the King is to be guided by him, whiles he guides it right; but if not, the King hath power over him, to command others to take the place, or cast him over board.

'Tis true, they are but servants to the Church, because they are by the Church, for the Church, and to help the Church, 2 Cor. 1. 24. and are subject to them if they sin; but yet they are servants unto Christ, and in exercising his power according to him▪ above the Church. 2 Cor. 4, 5. We preach Christ, and our selves your servants for Christ; yet therein above them: Hence being their servants; if they sin, they are under the censure of the Church, and the Church may cast them by. So being Christs servants; if not submitted to, the Lord doth account himself cast off.

1. Because their power thus rightly executed, is the 1power of Christ Jesus: Hence refuse it, you refuse to be subject to him; If men wil not be ruled by Gods Ordinances. but will rule Ordinances, they go about to tule Christ.

2. Because, if there shall be no subjection here, 'tis 2profest licentiousnesse, and not liberty in Churches; You have liberty, but what liberty? to be subject to Christs power in pure liberty, and that in his servants. Now when men will not, and shall refuse, without shewing reason, or convicting Elders of sin; this is to cast off the Government of Christ.

3. Elders are helpers of people, and there is no people 3but will stand in need of such helps, if humble, and able to discern, to attend the publick good, to teach and convince, &c. Hence, when there is no sin appearing in the execution of their office, they should with a holy …ear submit; and say, if ye be faithfull watchmen, what am I that I should be unsatisfied? my ignorance may mislead others, &c.

p. 6044. They have power to over-see, when they see cause, Acts 20. 28. and to see into, and enquire into the estate of the stock of God, to know their spirituall condition, so far as is fit to be known, that so they may be comforted in the work of Christ; though there be no sin break out, not they come to them, 1. Thes. 3. 5, 6. The Apostle enquired into their faith, charity, and prayer, vers. 7. and hence was comforted, &c. And this Paul doth not as an extraordinary man, but leaves his example as a president to the Elders of Ephesus; to go from house to house, and enquire, to teach and exhort, Acts 20. for Elders are to prevent scandals as well as to remove them, left when they come they say, Oh that I had known this before, especially where they see need. Now hence it is that men cast off the government of Christ, when they will not have their spirituall condition searched into, the Elders foot is now too great for his shoe, I am to give an account to God; so are they also of thee; now thou canst not give it if thou enquirest not how thy condition stands, neither can they with comfort unlesse thou tellest them how it stands with thee. 'Tis true there are many secret things they can never find out yet they are to attend their duty.

The Ministers charge is to cast the seed, the Elders duty is to enquire after the fruit in the husbandry of Christ; it is a sad condition when a man hath such a wound that he will not go to the Lord for help, because hee loves it; and will not have man to know it, at because hee is ashamed of it; But you shall know it, the last day that the Lord would have healed you, and you would not, but can quarrell and snap at the Elders when they come to enquire of your condition? and why do ye inquire; you take too much on you.

55. They have power to guide, and counsell, and warn the Church, at least in all weighty affaires which may concern them and their common good: hence they are called guides and leaders to the people, Heb. 13. 17. Mal. 2. 7. I do not mean in all personall things. Acts 20. 31. I warned you of wolves, &c. Hence

11. For members in matters of great and weighty affaires which concern the good of the whole Church, p. 61may all Churches, never to enquire at Abel is casting off the Lord, as in election of Offices in Church, and Magistrates in the Common-wealth, &c.

2. Hence to receive any opinion different from all the 2Elders in the Church, and never …o much as speak, much lesse come to a sad debate about it, is to cast off this yoke, and contrary to covenant, and Elders would never have undertook the care of the Church without it; and it sads their hearts that they do their work feebly.

3. Hence to propose a doubtfull question to the 3Church, which may trouble, or bring an offenders sin to the Church without counsell of the Elders, who may encourage them if of God, and ripen it for the Church, or discourage it if not of God. Christ when he writes to the Churches, he superscribes his Epistles to the Angels; and if one man may propose a doubtfull opinion, another may, and a third, and one may side with another, and so much confusion will follow.

4. Hence when men shall not take warning of evils 4to come upon evident grounds, it's casting off the Lords yoke; and when they come on thee, thou mayest say it is because I have refused to hearken to my watchers, they warned me of this, and it may be you will find else such evils which the Seripture notes, according to the word of the Lord by his servant Elisha, so will the Lord make good the words and threatnings of his faithfull servants.

5. They have power of publick reproof of any 5member of the Church, in case of plain, open and publick offences; others without leave cannot, nor ought not, although others may tell them, Reproofs are part of the power peculiar to the governours in any society, where governours are present especially, and at hand; as now in a Family, no wise man will suffer brawles amongst his children or servants, but sayes he, tell me. 1. Tim 5. 20. Now this is sad when a man cannot forbear reproof of others, nor hear reproofs of Elder, but turns again, and will be judge in his own cause though never so grosse, a sign of an extream froward high spirit, Hosea 4. 4. which makes the Lord to take away Elders as soon as any sin is committed, and stop their mouths. Exod. 2. Who made thee p. 62a Iudge, &c. And when afflictions come, and you then enquire, what is the cause of it? you may be sure this is one, even by the confession of the blindest deboist ones. Prov. 5. 12. How have I hated Instruction, and not obeyed the voice of my teachers?

66. They are to feed with power, as the word foreign signifieth, every one in their places, publickly instructing, exhorting, comforting, and privately also; which though private men may do, yet here is the stamp of authority also, and so the more power the more blessing usually, if God be acknowledged therein. Acts. 20. 28. Hence.

11. When men despise their food; they are poor things they speak, and they can see no matter in them; and that after study, prayers and tears, &c. and so cast it by; this is to cast off the Lord.

22. When men grow glutted and full, Mal. 1. ult. although they cannot a bit, and hence thrive not, but a spirit of slumber and a deep sleep grows on them, that they cannot be awakened by all the Ordinances of God, These things call for chains. Amos 8. 12. When will these Sabbaths be ended? for which the Lord threatens a …amin, and then you shall know the worth of them in the want of them.

These things I speak. 1. Because I see the Apostle in many of his Epistles layes this charge on the people. Heb. 13. 7, 17. 'tis twice repeated. 1. Lest Officers be sadded in their work that's heavy. 2. Lest it be unprofitable for you; you think to get this and that good by it, but it will be nothing in the conclusion.

22. Because we lie under slander of many, and that godly, as if Elders in Churches were but only Ciphers.

33. Because people begin to run to extreames, Elders taking all to themselves, and people taking all for themselves.

44. Because if here be not attendance you quickly see the miserable ruine and fall of Churches, more sad than the burning of Solomons Temple. 'Tis observed of Ierobeam when he was sacrificing he had no leprosie, but whe… he stretched out his hand against the Prophet it was withered; for the Lord will not bear here, they may be depised, and you may think your selves Kings without them, 1 Cor. 4. 8. and they will say so, they may rule as p. 63they will, but you will do as you list. But the Lord will be provoked for this, all Satans subtilty lies here; disgrace the Elder sayes one, divide them sayes▪ another, pull thom down sayes the third, that there may be no King in Israel, no nor in Sion, that we may do what is right in our own eyes.

3. Try when the externall Kingdome of Christ in a 3Common-wealth is cast off; for when any Common-wealth is ordered according to the sacred will of Christ, by such persons especially whose aim is to advance the Kingdome of Christ by their rule and power, 'tis then become the Kingdome of Christ Jesus. And hence, Revel. 11. 15. when the seventh trumpet is blown, and the Lords last wo is come upon the world and the Kingdoms thereof, which have opposed Christ, and those Kingdomes are turned to imbrace the Gospell, and submit to the power of Christ in the same, then it's said, The Kingdomes of the world are become the Kingdomes of Christ; it's not said, Christs Kingdome is become the Kingdome of the word, as if Christ should put down civill authority, and exercise rule by it himself, but The Kingdomes of the world, i.e. the various Kingdomes are become Christs, i.e. to advance it, and debase themselves at his feet. Eph. 1. 2…. it's said, All things are put under Christs feet, and he is head over all things to the Church, (that is universally, chiefly▪ nextly, particularly,) so then earths Kingdomes when they are subject to Christ, for his ends, now they exercise the Kingdome of Christ, in a manner; and hence to cast off this, is to cast off the Kingdome of Christ, and so to provoke the Lord to put us under bondage.

Quest. Quest.When is Christs Power and Kingdome cast off here?

Answ. Answ.There is a double Power in the Kingdoms of the world, which I suppose, when they become Christs Kingdomes, they will retain.

First, There is some supreme or higher power; in the 1chief Magistrates, Ptinces, or chief Court of Justice.

Secondly, There is some inferiour power, by some 2superiour power, set over particular Persons, Cities, and Towns, for the well ordering of them. The ground of this is, that naturall necessity which Iethro propounded from God to Moses, Exod. 18. 17, 18. 'Tis not good for thee to be alone, but thou wilt both wear out thy self, and thy people. Publick authority must have many eyes, and p. 64many hands; and like a River that is to water a Countrey, it must have many streams: And hence they had in the Common-wealth of Israel, which was for God, in every City Judges, and in Towns, such as were over fifties and tens, Exod. 18. 25. which it seemes continued long, till all fit men for government were taken away; and then Isaiah 3. 3. their condition is lamented.

Now the form of this government is not in all Common-wealths alike; the Lord not binding to any; and hence called foreign, an ordinance of men. Hence it is a foolish vanity to ask a warrant in Scripture for such a form of Government; for humane wisdome may teach this, though not in Church-government. Yet this supreme and inferiour Government hath been in all Kingdomes, 1 Pet. 2. 13, 14. to both which subjection is required; to refuse to give it, is to cast off the Lords Government; and there are couched four reasons in that place to prove this.

11. Do it for the Lords sake, for the name of Christ; and that honour and majesty of Christ stamped on them, submit; hence cast them off, you cast by respect unto; nay, the name of Christ Jesus.

22. Because they are in the room of the Lord, to do the work of the Lord; In punishing evil doers, and for the praise of them that do well. It's true, they may abuse their power otherwise; but yet their power is one thing, and their abuse of it another.

33. Because, this is the will of Christ, and you do well in it; and so you shall stop the mouthes of foolishmen, apt to speak against you for sin.

44. Because, this is the liberty of Christ, vers. 6. and you are servants to Christ in it; and to do otherwise is licentiousnesse; and their liberty to exempt themselves from the power of lawfull authority, was but a cloak of it. For so it seems in those dayes, some held it part of their Christian liberty to be free from all bonds; and said, that Christ had made them Kings on Earth, &c. So that if they did cast off subjection, they did cast of the name of Christ, power of Christ, will of Christ, liberty of Christ Jesus. Even under heathen Magistrates; what then do they that cast it off under others?

Quest. 2▪ Quest. 2:When is Christs Government cast off in respect of the supreme power?

Answ. Answ.Those that know the questions about the p. 65power of Princes and people, especially revived in these last dayes; cannot but know the field is large, where now I am, I shall be wholly silent; unlesse I saw greater cause of speaking than I do, and only point out two or three particulars to prevent such sins as stand next to the door; to break in upon this power.

1. When men cast off secretly dread, and fear, and reverence of the Majesty, Dominion and Sovereignty that God stamps upon authority; and so come to have low, mean thoughts of them, and contempt of them. It's true, none should be elected, but such as men can honour for some eminency or other, and that of God, seen in them. Able men fearing God, chief amongst the people; was the counsell of God by Iethro and M…ses; but when they be Elected, now to despise them, and hence not to bow the knee, or stir the hat, and speak rudely before them; it's casting off, not only their power in sight of God; but the very root of it, which is honour: And hence in the fifth Commandment, all duties to them are comprehended under the word Honour. And who sees not but this is a sin, which is apt to attend the spirits of men in a place of liberty, and in our weak beginnings, and day of small things? Reports are abroad, that no men of worth are respected; and hence the Countrey is neglected. I cannot say so after many thoughts; for I am perswaded no place in Europe more ready to honour men of publick spirits, and of eminency in piety, and humility; without the seeing of which, no Countrey more apt to vilisie; because grace is the glory in the eye of a Countrey led by Religion: But take heed, lest such a spirit be all us; lest the Lord put out our Lamps, and cast our Crown down to the ground.

2. When men seek to pluck the sword of revenge for sin 2hurting the Commonwealth, out of their hands; without which, the greatest power in a Common-wealth, is but a pageant, and a meer vanity, almost a nullity. Hence, Rom. 13. 4. He is Gods Minister; y…s; when he gives good counsell▪ and when he is a revenger, to execute wrath on him that doth evill: So that be the evill what it will be, if it hurt the Common-wealth, or be against any wholesome Law thereof; he is Gods Minister to punish it civilly. In the first Reformation of Geneva, there were as many heresies and errours almost as truths of God; Servetus, he denyed the Deity of Christ; whereupon p. 66the Magistrate put him to death, who dyed with extream horror; Whereupon heresies being begun to be s…ibb'd aud blasted, Bellius writes a Book: 1. That men should punish no heresie at all; but be mercifull and …eek, as Christ was to the adulterous woman. 2. If they did; yet that Magistrates they should not punish for 3errors or heresies. 3. If they did, yet not with such severity as they begun. To all which, Beza hath given a most learned and solid answer, detesting the hypocrisie of the man, and the sad consequences of such opinions, if their power should be diminished.

I conceive, 'tis casting off Christs power, to take away power from Magistrates to punish sins against the first Table, of which errors and heresi…s in Religion are part. It's as clear as the Sun, that the Kings of Ia…ah that were g…dly did it, and were commended for it; and 'tis as clear, they were commended for it; not as types of Christ, but because they did therein that which was right in Gods eyes, and according to the commandment of the Lord; Which judiciall commandments, concerning the punishing of Sabbath-breakers, false Prophets, Hereticks, &c. G…ds fence to preserve morall lawes; … are of morall equity, and so to be observed to this day of Christian Magistrates, &c. To exempt Clergymen in matters of Religion from the power of the civill sword, is that …pery; by means of which Antichrist hath risen, and hath continued in his pomp and power so long together, The indulgence of Princes towards the Papal function in matters of Religion, hath undone Christendome.

'Tis true, every error is not to be immediately committed but when 'tis like a gangrene, of a spreading nature, then the Magistrate in due time must cut it off speedily.

Ohject. Object.Leave them to the Church.

Answ. Answ.True▪ leave them 1. there. But 2. Sometimes the Church will not, sometimes they are not of any Church. A …apist, an Arminian may come in and leaven and damne many a soul, for which they had better never been; If it were but one, and if he sayes, I do it with a meek spirit, (their trick of late) and none must meddle, because mercy must be shewen to their wolves: A wise shepherd had rather let a hunter come in and kill one of his sheep, then let a Wolf or Fox escape, Acts 20. 29 p. 67and see his people persecuted, than their soules worried.

Heresie and Error hath this property; it ever dies by severe opposition, and truth ever riseth the more; because Christ is against the one, Hence it must fall; but or the other, hence it shall rise by its fall: Hence, set your selves against this, 'tis to oppose the power of Christ Jesus And hence in Henry the 8^th time, the Abbies fell, and never could rise to this day; but the six Articles against the Saints pursued with blood, made them increase the more.

3. When men will not submit to the wholesome Laws 3of Magistra…s; which are either fundamentall, and continuing; or O…ders that have their date and time of expiring, made for common good. When men will either have … laws, or as good as none, or submit to none but what they please, Deut. 17. 12. He that will not hea…ken, but do pres…mptuously, shall dye; He being the Minister of the …; and indeed it is to cast off the Lord. I go not about here to establish a sovereign power in Magistrates, when is proper to God, to ma…e what lawes they will, about civi…l, Religious, or indifferent things, and then people to … for no other …eason, but because of their will… under which notion, superstition in Churches hath been ushered and maintained, you must …: in that case, it's better to s…ffer than to sin, and nor to do, than do. But suppose the lawes just, righteous, holy, and for publick good, and that apparently so, and not in saying so only: Now here, to cast off lawes, is to cast off Christ.

There are two things especially, which are the cause and occasion of the breach of all other lawes; and the strongest sins and sweetest, which men, young men especially, the hopes of the Common wealth, are catcht with, Prov. 2. 13, 16.

1. Who…edome, secret lusts and wa…tonnesse, and other strange lusts which I …ase a…d dare not name, 1 Kings 1…. 24. The sin before Shishah came, a sin which many times Solomon cannot see thorow his window, nor the eye of authority discern; but God will judge for it, Heb. 13. 5▪ and if he be …udge, who shall be thy Jailor, but Satan? and what shall be thy sentence, but death? and what thy …naines, but a hard heart for the present, and horrour afterward? A sin which pollutes the very p. 68earth, the land, the very dust of the ground; and the cause of all sin almost in a place, as drunkennesse, idleness, corrupt opinions, scoffing at the Ministers of God, and wayes of God: For I seldom knew a persecutor, but he was an adulterer, though it's not alwayes true; and in the end, poverty and ruine. And know it, though no mans eye has seen thee, no power of Magistrate can reach thee; this word shall be fire to consume thee, unlesse thou repent: for thy looks, thy lusts, thy dalliances, thy thoughts, thy speeches, thy endeavours this way, much more for the thing. Mans law shall not bind you here, because it cannot reach you; but know, that Christ is cast off by you.

22. Loose company, vain men, Prov. 25. 3, 4. A Common-wealth is a refined vessell of use of God, and judgement is established; when these are taken away, your knors of loose company. Take a poor Souldier alone, he is as other men, but when they are got into a knot together; now they grow strong against all …aws of God or men. So here, the knot of good fellowship hath been the bane of the flourishing State of England, meeting in Tavernes and such places; and the cause of wheredome, and of all evill commonly in a Nation. For hence▪ Much precious time is lost; which if spent in praying, as in sporting with th…, many a young mans soul had been blessed: Hence, s…metimes dicing, feasting, excessive drinking, merry …, which take off all spiritual joy: Hence filthy songs, and lascivious speeches; by which hopefull young men are i…s…a…ed, and taught to do wickedly, and so knit to them; that it's death to part with them, and it's better to burn a whole Town, than to poyson one hopefull young man.

Next to communion with wanton women, I have ever looked on unnecessary fellowship with graceless men, as the next. Well, know it, you cast off the Lords g…vernment from you by his servants, which will be sad to answer for another day. And as the Prophet said to Iehosaphat, Shouldest thou love them that hate the Lord? his wrath is against thee for this: So say I to thee.

Quest. 3.Quest. 3 Inferiour power, when is that cast off, viz. in particular Cities or Townes by meaner persons?

Answ. Answ.I shall expresse it in three things chiefly.

1. When Souldiers in particular Towns, cast off respect, care, conscience to the commands of their leaders set over them of God, and who under God are the walls of outward safety for the Countrey; 'tis not now an artillery day, only I must speak a word, because it's a thing of moment, and matter of great conscience with me. …suppose, in such a place at least, according to the Centurio…s example amongst Heathens, Mat. 8. 9. a word of a Commander to any of them should be a law. I say to one, Go, …ee goes. Now for men to come when they l…st to those meetings, and so time is lost, and when they do come, no care; I had almost said conscience, to mind their work in hand, and do it with all their might, as it to which they are called; but Officers may speak, charge, cry, yea strike sometimes, yet heed not, it's intolerable; but that Members of Churches, which should be examples to others should do this, at least it is but brutishnesse. But I do wonder what rules of Conscience such do walk by, and if they do, where is their tendernesse to withdraw their shoulders from under the work? which if there be but English blood in a Christian, he will endeavour to be perfect in his Art herein: but if grace, much more, that he may make one stone in the wall, and be fit to shed his blood, if need be, for the defence of Christs servants, Churches, and cause of God.

2. When any Town doth cast off the power and rule of 2Townsmen, set by the supreme Magistrate to make such orders as may make for the publick weal thereof. I know sometimes men may not be so able, wise, and carry matters imprudently: Town-orders may also sometimes want that weight, that wisdome, those cautions, that mature consideration as is meet, as also that due & prudent publication, that all may know of them, with records … them. But take Town-orders that be deliberatly … published, for the publick peace, prof…, … place, to oppose these, or persons that … much care, fear, tendernesse; If I know … of a crying nature, provoking God, … government. I confesse, if there be not … no way of living under any gov…nment … or Common-wealth, if the publick affaires of … cast off. I know sometimes, godly … through weaknesse, want of light, … and violent tentation, oppose here; but I am perswaded if they be the Lords, he will in time humble them for it, and make them better after it.

I know the answer to two questions would clear up p. 70all the doubts about this matter, 1. What prudence should be used in making lawes? 2. How farre those humane lawes and Town-orders bind conscience? But I cannot attend these; only six things I would here say.

11. The will and Law of God only hath Supreme absolute and sovereign power to bind conscience (i. e. to urge it or constrain either to excuse for doing well, or to accuse for sin; for conscience is at liberty without this) this is a truth urged by all orthodox Protestant Divines against the Papists; so that no law can immediately bind conscience but Gods.

11. Because he only is Lord of conscience; because he made it, and governs it, and only knows it; and hence he only is fit to prescribe rules for it.

22. Because he only can save or destroy the soul; hath only power to make lawes for the soul to bind conscience. Iames 4. 12. There is one Law-giver, who is able to save or d…stry. Isa. 33. 22. for the law which so binds conscience to a duty that the breach of it is a sin, and that against God: we know that the least sin of it self destroyes the soul, binds it over to death, but none have power to destroy it but the Lord himself.

33. Because the Law is sufficient to guide the whole man, in its whole course, in all the actions or occasions it meddles with, or takes in hand, even in civill as well as in Religious matters. Prov. 2. 9. wisdom teacheth every good path. Psal. 119. 11. I have hid thy word, that I might not sin. Whatever one doth without a rule from the word, is not of faith. Hence the word descends to the most petty occasions of our lives, it teacheth men how to look, Psal. 131. 1. how to speak, Mat. 12. 36. it descends to the plaiting of the hair, 1 Pet. 3. 5. moving of the feet, Isa. 3. 16. and what is of Christian liberty hath its freedome from the word: a man must give an account at the last day of every stirring of heart, thoughts, motives, and secret words; and if so, then it must be according to the rule of the word: and hence the word only hath absolute power to bind Masters, Servants, and Princes how they govern, and people how they subject; and this the Lord hath done to make men take counsell from him, and walk in fear before him, and approve themselves to him, especially Townsmen in their places not to consult without God.

22. All good Laws and Orders inacted in any place by p. 71men, are either expresly mentioned in the word, or are to be collected and deducted from the word, as being able to give sufficient direction herein. For all the authority of the highest power on earth in …rri…ing of Laws, is in this alone, viz. to make prudent …llection and speciall application of the generall rules, recorded in Scripture, to such speciall and peculiar circumstances which may promote the publick weal and good of persons, places, proceedings. Prov. 8. 85. By me Princes decree justice. Ioshua 1. 7, 8. Do what Moses commanded, turn not on either hand. Object. But I cannot see my way from hence alwayes. Meditate therefore on it much, and then thy way shall prosper, &c. Many things Ioshua did, not particularly set down by Moses, but may be collected from it. Deut. 1. 17, 18, 19, 20. The king is to have it, that he may prolong his dayes in the midst of Israel, in his Kingdome. What made Rehoboam to turn from these wayes? he thought he could not stablish his Kingdome without it; that was therefore the ruine of him and his Kingdome.

1. This appears, because the word is sufficient to direct, 1as hath been shewn; and hence all directions and rules are to be taken from hence.

2. Because either men have rules to walk by, or their 2own wills and apprehensions are to be rules; but not so, because mens wills are not only corrupt, but it's a peculiar prerogative to God to be obeyed, because of his will. The reason or wisdome which makes a rule, binds; which if it be right, is part of the law writ in the heart, which is most plainly seen and fully opened in the word, whence direction is to to be had.

3. Humane lawes or orders thus, either set down in 3the word, or deducted from the word, and applied by those that be in place in Townes; though they do not binde conscience firstly, as humane, or by human… power, (i. e. as published and imposed by man;) … do binde secondarily, i. e. by vertue of the Law of God, wherein they are contained, or from whence they are derived and deducted, and according to which … opposed; they are like subpoenas in the King… name, or writ of arrest, which by vertue of higher power challenge obedience; And thus to break these, is to … against God, and makes the conscience liable to punishment from God: And the reason is.

p. 7211. Because men sin hereby against the Lord, and his holy righteous law, because Gods law is contained in these; and what is deducted from the word, is Gods word. 1 Sam. 8 7. They have not rejected thee, but me.

22. Because they sin against the power of the Magistrate hereby, and against men in place, and so against more means; Rom. 13. 2. He that resisteth the power, resisteth the Ordinance of God, i. e. when they command thee according to God, which the Lord takes very ill; & the meaner the power is (as in Towns) the more terrible will the Lord be, when he comes to visit for it; hence they receive to themselves damnation, both by God and men.

'Tis true, if they be not thus according to the word, but rather against the generall rules of it: though men in Towns and places are not to be obeyed, yet subjection is their due even then; i. e. not to refuse obedience with contempt of their persons, places, power, or scandal to their proceedings, or profession of the Gospell. Revile not the Lords high Priest; speak evill of no man; but rather come in private, and confer with them; and hear what may be said, and be willing to give and take reason.

44. Humane lawes and orders may be known to be according to the word, when they command or forbid such things, as really advance or tend to promote the publick good.

This I adde to answer that great question in many scrupulous minds. I cannot see (so ignorant) when an order is collected from the generall rules of the word; n…w this conclusion answers that doubt: For look as the main work of men in place, is to promote publick good; (and hence publick spirited men are to be chosen for i…) so the principall rule is that which God and his Word gives them to walk by: whatever really doth tend to the advancement of that; Publish that, record that, and execute that, Rom. 13. 4. He is Gods M…nister to thee for good: i. e. for the publick good. He is for mens private good, but 'tis in reference to publick good; that as private persons are to attend their work, so publick persons publick g…od. Hence, 1. If a law be made for publick hurt, th…t law is not of God.

22. Hence, if the law be made only for the private good of themselves, or any particular person, and hurts the publick, that's not according to God. Admirable p. 73was Ioshuas spirit herein, Iosh. 19. 49, 50.

3. If laws be only in appearance and pretence for publick good, and not really, they bind not; none must do evill, much lesse make a law of it, for publick good. Nothing more usuall than to make civill lawes and orders, crossing Gods law, and to pretend publick good; which ever prove the publick pests and plagues, and cankers of that place, as Ieroboams command for Religion. Some things are forbidden plainly, they make not for publick good, but hurt, the statues of Omri. Other things are indifferent in their nature, as swine to go abroad, or to be shut up; but inconvenient in their use, and hurtfull and scandalous, and that really to the generall. They are not for publick good, whatever is pretended. Somethings are plainly commanded, they are for the publick good circumstantiated; some things are indifferent in their nature, but convenient and comfortable in their use, those are indeed according to God. And such things may be discerned, they are so obvious and sensible, of such necessity and such profit, when duly considered by persons not blinded with their private interests.

4. Hence things indifferent, which may as well be left 4undone as done, and so publick good no way advanced, are not of God that any should restrain them: For the liberty which Christ hath purchased by his blood, and which Gods law gives; no law of man can abolish, or take away. It's the cry of the claw-backs of Princes, that they have power in things indifferent, i. e. such things which make as much for publick good, not to use, as use; the truth is, he hath least power here; because they are idle and Idol-lawes, no hurt, nor is there good in them: And hence, some of the most rigid Schoolmen maintain such lawes bind not conscience; we are not to seek our private only; now all human lawes are helps to seek publick.

5. That lawes made for and according to God for publick 5good, if they do not destroy some mens particular; only for some time pinch and presse hard upon his particular good; or their particular good, men are bound in conscience here to submit. True, 1. If it were possible, all lawes for publick good, should hurt no particular man, and Townsmen, if they can; should help those that are hurt; yet because no lawes, but p. 74usually they will presse on some mans particular; the heaviest end of a staffe that is to be born, must fall on some mans shoulder, and such lawes must be made. Hence a man is to bear and submit cheerfully, i. e. from the rule of love, which will abate of particular for the generall good; love that more than mine own. 2. The law of justice, a man is to do as he would be done by; there is no man, but if his good was advanced by the generall, but would be conteut that some particular should be pinched. 3. The law of nature: The stomack is content to be sick, and body weak, to heal the whole body. Hence Christians should not think that Tow…smen are carelesse, unjust, and aimed at their hurt, when it is thus, 1 King. 12. 4.

66. A meer Penal law when 'tis broke; the forfeiture is sufficient for the satisfaction of the offence, or trespasse; but not in a mixt Law.

1First, A Penall law is about things of small moment,

2Secondly, 'Tis not made by way of command, but with an aut, a disjunctive copula; and is indeed rather a proviso than a law.

3Thirdly, It is in the mind of the law, make satisfactory if the penalty be payed, though the law be not performed, because the publick good in the mind of the Law-maker is known to be set forward that way as by obedience to the law. In these cases penalty is enough; but if the law be mixt, i. e. there is a command it shall de done; and Law-giver is sad, though penalty being paid, as being about a matter of weight; it may be the livelyhood and comfort of men, as keeping hogs out of corn, and peace in a Town, that there be no complaining; here the penalty will not satisfie, because this is no penall law, but a law indeed deducted from rules of the word of God; as it is in theft, he that steals, shall pay fourfold; or that brawles, shall be duckt in the water: Suppose one should say, I will suffer my servant to steal or revile; I hope 'tis no offence if he suffer the penalty. Yes, but it is, beeause it is not a meer penall law; the thing is of weight, peace between neighbours, so peace in a Town. It's a flat charge not to break it, and thou knowst such is the honesty and justice of a Magistrate, that he will say, I would rather you would never do thus, than offer those to do. Hence in Gods law Christ must suffer, and do also, because Gods law is not meerly penal; but doing p. 75the thing, gives more content than the punishment.

3. When servants cast off all subjection to their Governours. 3Families being the members and foundations of Towns,Tit. 2. 9, 10.Titus 2:9Titus 2:10 and so of Common-wealths. When they are not obedient;1 Pet. 3. 18:1 Pet 3:18 but answer again; if they be let alone, then idle; if rebuked and curb'd, then stubborn and proud,Eph. 6. 5.Eph 6:5 and worse for chiding, and find fault with their wages, and victuals, and lodging; weary, and vex out the heart of Master and Mistresse, and make them weary of their lives, and their God also almost sometimes; and that by such professing Religion, and all that they might be from under the yoke.

And here I cannot but set a mark upon servants broke loose from their Masters, and got out of their time, that are under no Family nor Church-government; nor desiring1 Pet. 3. 18.1 Pet 3:18 of it, or preparing for it;Tit. 2. 9, 10.Titus 2:9Titus 2:10 but their reigns are on their necks. I confesse,Eph. 6. 5Eph 6:5 if under heathen Masters, then desire liberty rather; but when men will live as they list, without any over them, and unfit to rule themselves; I much doubt, whether this be according to God.

1. Hence they come to live idly, and work when they 1list.

2. Hence men of publick use, can have little use but 2when they please of them.

3. When they be with them, they have no power to 3correct or examine, and call them to account, in regard of spirituall matters.

4. Hence they lye in wait to oppresse men that must 4have help from them, and so will do what they list.

5, Hence they break out to drunkenness, whoring, 5and loose company.

6. Hence they make other servants unruly, and to desire 6liberty.

Now examine and try these things: Is the Kingdome of Christ come into us? that though there be a law in our members warring, yet there is a law of the mind warring against it, and delighting in the will of Christ, and setting him up as chief. Are we under the Kingdome of Christ in his Church and Common-wealth; so as the soul is willing in the day of the Lords power, though there be, and have been some pangs of resistance against persons and against Ordinances; so as 'tis thy liberty to be subject to Christ in his Ordinances, in his servants; and 'tis thy bondage to be otherwise, and thou longest for that day, p. 76that the Lord would subdne all those boistrous lusts, and pride, and passions; and bruise sin, Satan and self under their feet? Then I say, as the Lord, Isa. 33. 20, 21, 2…. Look upon Zion, the City of your solemnity, &c. See Rom. 8. 7, 1.

But if the heart grows loose and licentious, and breaks the Lords bonds and yokes, and will be led by your own fleshly ends and lusts, and so go on quietly: Be you assured, this truth shall have a time to take hold of such spirits; and know it assuredly, 'tis not to be in Christs Family or Kingdome; 'tis not scrambling for promises, catching at Gods grace, talking of assurance of Gods love, which will shelter you from the wrath of the King of Kings, and Lord of Lords; to whom God hath sworn, That every knee shall bow. 'Tis service and subjection which the Lord aims at, and which the Lord looks for. I know 'tis Gods grace which only can save; but it will never save when it is turned into licentiousnesse.

Do not say, There is no danger of it, here where we have such means, and such liberties are.

Answ. 1.Answ. 1. Never such danger of being licentious, as in places of liberty; when no bit nor bridle of externall tyranny to curb in.

22. Look on the Kingdom of Iudah here, which in one year all fell.

33. Why doth the Lord exercise us with wants and straits? 'tis to humble us, and abate our unrulinesse. And 'tis the Lords quarrel with his best people to this day; desperate rebellious hearts, that close not with his Government.

Do not say, we know not how bondage should come here, though we should cast off the Lords Government.

Answ. 1.Answ. 1. The Lord can let loose the natives against us. Ahab kills 1000000 of Benhadads men, but afterwards within seven yeares he returns again.

22. The Lord can raise up brambles, and Abimelechs to be the King of the trees, when the Olives and the Vines are loth to forsake their places, and to lose their fatnesse and sweetnesse.

33. The Lord can turn the hearts of those in power against people, and let Satan sowe suspicions, and sowe seditions and clashings.

44. The Lord can leave us into one anothers hands to oppresse, to take away the nether milstones.

p. 775. If none of these, Satan, nay Christ himself will come 5out with garments dipt in blood.

3. Do not say, 'Tis not so, there is sweet subjection, i. e. 3'tis so, and blessed be God for it, yet beware, I speak to prevent. But yet 1. Some seem to do so, and yet are not so, 2 Cor. 10. 4, 5. Mighty to pull down every high thought, who attains this, who can be thus? yet there are means mighty for this end, not that all be abolished, but all are abolishing. 2. Others otherwise, openly how zealous for an opinion, when it should be death to differ, & things in your own heart lying miserably waste, and some wretched lust the root of all, for which Gods Saints mourn in secret. Let such know, that will not be ruled by Christ, or his servants or ordinances, but will have them to rule them, and …ot to be ruled by them. The Lords chains are near, and therefore now take your time and come in submit to the Lord, and do as these here did, acknowledge the Lord to be righteous, and turn unto the Lord.

Vse 6.Vse 6. Of thankfulnesse, for our present liberties and freedome from the bondage of men, bondage of conscience, bondage of Satan and sin: need there is of laying this use seriously to heart, considering two things principally. 1. The general complaints of the Countrey, as they of Iericho, 2 Kings 2. 10. The waters are bad, and the ground barren, and these are engraven in Marble, all other our liberties are written on the water. 2. The disgrace and reproach cast upon Gods people and wayes of God, and that unjustly, which I am afraid to mention; whence there grows a contempt of them, and the rivers of Damascus now are better than Iordan. Oh beloved, if it be an heavy hand of God to be under bondage, then look on it as a speciall grace of God to free us from bondage. Deut. 32. 11, 12. The Lord alone did lead them, &c. Ier. 2. 20.Jer 2:20and Moses, chap. 33. 29. when he had blessed them, Happy art thou Oh Israel, a People saved by the Lord. And the greater cause we have to do this, a People that have abused all liberties. Is. 9. 8, 9, 10. He laments it, but yet is thankfull for it to Gods grace: no man that can say but he may be as holy as he will, and none to curb or snib.

1: Means, Consider what all the liberties Gods people 1enjoy have cost, Gal. 5. Christ hath made you free, i. e. by his blood. Liberty of Conscience from the bondage, not of Jewish, but of Antichristian Ceremonies, and p. 78Government, and Pressures: Liberty of will from any sin; 'tis by Christs blood and cost, that (as I am perswaded) our liberties have cost Saints their blood. The tears, prayers and blood of men are much; but of Christ much more, and are they not worth thanks that are of this price? The great reason why unthankfulnesse comes in, is; because they cost so much, as losse of estate, of wife, or of childe by sea; dost thou repent now? Christ doth not repent that his blood hath been paid for them; and if they be of so little value, as there 'tis said, He repented that he made man, so may he that ever he gave them such glorious liberties.

22. Consider oft of the sad condition of them that be in bondage. Men in bondage prize liberty, and think them happy that enjoy it; but men out of it do not. How sad is the consideration of them that be in bonds, it will make thy heart sympathize with them, and blesse God for your deliverance. Hence saith Christ, Luke 22. 20. When you see Jerusalem compast with enemies, &c. flie to the mountains, and wo to them that give suck. Consider them that are taken with the Turks; if you were in their condition you would say so; to bring forth little ones to the murderer or idolater, Isa. 42. 22. and 26. Mens hearts failing for fear, this you should see some-where. A mote or a thorn is a little thing, but no man would have it alwayes vexing for all the estate he hath, if he hath any eye or tendernesse in it; so those small matters for which the Saints have suffered, and for which God is provoked, and under which some have roared, and others have been loaded one after another; 'tis worth a world; oh, blesse God for it: but consider those that be under the dominion of sin and Satan, so strong and miserable; sin so dear, that there is not so much as a sigh under that; be thankfull for that.

33. Labour to maintain in the heart a holy fear of abusing liberties, every one in his place; for what makes them despised, but principally the abuse of them; in such a Congregation there was such contention, such affront to the Elders, there is that degenerating of spirit, and back sliding from God, that men grow worse under means than ever, I and so must be if men grow not better. Deut. 6. 10, 12. The Lord exhorts them, that when they be at liberty, they would not then forget the Lord, but then fear. 'Tis Luthers note on the place: When in p. 79trouble, you rejoyce; but when in peace, you fear. I'le only name the sins of liberty.

1. Take heed of a Prayerlesse spirit, and that that 1lamp go not out. Men under some pressures cry, and 'tis long before they do cry under them, and under their sin; but then at last they do, and when the Lord gives liberty, though they have the guilt of the same sins, and more sins lie on them, yet then like Marriners, when the storms are over, fall asleep. Its strange that Israel under Pharaoh cried, and under Gods afflicting hand in denying them water murmured. True thankfulnesse will help to prize what liberty affords.

2. An unloving spirit to the Saints. It's that I have oft 2said; souldiers when they are set against a common enemy are all one, but when at liberty, then they fling javelins at one anothers heads, differ in opinion, and in heart and affection, & 'tis not death so to do. Take heed of a rigid, censorious, unloving spirit.

3. Extreme ignorance how to use our liberties; and 3hence running to extremes. As we say of Christ, There is good enough in him, but men know not how to fetch and improve it: so there is great advantage in liberties; but men misse of it through their ignorance and abuse. Hence many times more hurt done by an Admonition than by the sin, when administred in passion, and without compassion. Hence under pretence of liberty, extream licentiousnesse.

4. Imperiousnesse of spirit, arising from a frothy emptinesse, 4and an overweening opinion, and conceitednesse of their own abilities and wisdom above others: and hence will not be led, (being at liberty) by the Counsell and Advice of others. It's naturall for man to affect sovereignty, and when the time comes of liberty, then it hath a vent: Who made thee a Lord and Iudge over us? though in bondage, much more in liberty; they think Wills Commonwealth is in their heads chiefly, and hence will not be ruled by Gods ordinances; and hence if once taken with an opinion, hardly ever removed, &c.

5. Resting with liberties and in liberties. We were 5never in bondage, John 8. 33. yet servants to sin. We be Abrahams seed, better than all the world; yet under all the power of sin and Satan, and must not be told of their wayes, but hate them that censure them for their sins. Men in bondage are like sick men, that will cry if they p. 80were in another bed, oh then they should be well; but they must first be cured of their disease.

44. Make use of liberties. He that hath them, but sees not so much glory in them, or gets not much good from them; he will be no more thankfull than one that hath large grounds may walk at liberty, but the trees for want of manuring bear no fruit, nor ground corn through sloth; such a man will starve there. Look as they, Deut. 15. 5, 10, 11. they were to bring the first fruits, and present them before the Lord, and rejoyce in all: so should you if ever you be thankfull for them, bring the first fruits to the Lord, and think there is more behind, and more in heaven.

Object.Object. But our outward streights are many, and temptations sad.

Answ. Answ.If Christ himself should come on earth, what would you have with him? would you have him come and set up an earthly Paradise? would you have better entertainme…t than he, who had not that which Foxes and Birds had? or would you have him come from his Crosse, and then you will make him King? if you despise his ordinances and liberties because of wants, you would despise himself if he were present. But you will reply and say, What if we can have both? If that can be, and Christ cals to take both, refuse not his love. But it may be an heavy indictment against some at the last day, in that they forsake Christ, because he is poor and naked; for they are therefore called to cloath him: and this will be your Peace, and you will be no losers your selves another day.

22. Suppose he doth keep us low; yet Psal. 145. 13, 14. His dominion is alway, and raiseth up all that are bowed down. Oh be humbled; he is said, Deut. 32. 13. to make the people suck honey out of the rock, and oyl out of the flint, sweetnesse and mercy out of the hardest condition.

33. They that are not recompenced for their enjoyment of liberties, by the spirituall refreshings which the Lord gives, shewing them more of their own hearts; the Lord proclaims liberty to them to depart. I am perswaded the whole Countrey would flouruish the more.

44. Lament rather your own vilenesse, who in the midst of all mercy, know not how to use, but abuse our liberties: and hence the Lord forsakes us, as Ezza 9. 8, 10, 11. What grace hath been shewed us? what shall we say, that p. 81after this, &c? Wouldest thou not be angry with us till thou hast consumed us? Psal. 81. 13, 16. Oh that my People had heard my voice, I would have subdued their enemies. God would not be wanting unto us, if we were not to him.

Take therefore that example to imitate, in Acts 9. 31, Having rest, they were edified: if we be not so, truly, as none have the like liberties; so no bondage so sad, no where such poverty, no where such anguish of conscience, no where such spirit and power of sin, no where such sad anger; if in practice we be unthankfull, or can mouth and speak against long Sermons, and against the Countrey and Christians, or in hearts undervalue them; and when you see Indians rise, Brambles, Abimelechs and Shebnas raised, &c. then know this is for abuse of liberty.

Vse 7.Vse 7. Of exhortation, to come under Christs Government, and be in his service; lest ye come to know the difference between it and some other by experience.

Mot. 1.Mot. 1. You must be either under Christs yoke, or Satans and sins, and so all other miseries: and therefore as Ioshua said, so say I to you; Choose you whom you will serve.

Mot. 2.Mot. 2. Consider the difference between the service of the Lord and Shishak.

1. The government of others, tyrannicall proud men, or 1sin or Satan, or outward miseries; 'tis full of rigour, force and cruelty. Ezek. 34. 4. With force and cruelty have ye ruled them. But Christs Government is there shewen to be in mercy, and full of mercy; though sometimes lost, he will fetch thee in again; though sick and weak, he will heal thee again. vers. 16. Deut. 4. 6. 'Tis for thy good the Lord hath no need of thy service, &c. True it is, the Lord may shew his people hard things, and give them sid miseries; but these wounds do not kill them, only make way for healing the distempers of their hearts, that are in his poor weak ones; and his end is to bring them to himself.

2. Their government is in it self hard and bitter. To 2serve a lust now, 'tis a torment, sometimes to conscience, if that be awake; if not, 'tis a curse of curses: much reluctancy against it; much chiding after it, and God hides himself; dreadfull fears, and heart it self unquiet, but Christs yoke is easie and his burden light; his assistance, and pre…ence, and love, and peace makes it so, and that daily, and at death especially.

p. 8233. There is little recompence for their service; the best that Saul can give, are Olive-fields and Vine-yards; but anguish of conscience after the work is done: But the Lord gives a Kingdome; and not a word or thought, but there is a Book of remembrance writ; not a cup of cold water, or rag to any of Christs naked servants, but it will be recompenced. You have followed me, you shall sit on thrones.

Mot. 3.Mot. 3. Consider how fain the Lord would have you under his Government; for many will say, I have refused so oft; and what shall I now do? the Lord will cast me by. True, he may do so, and you may be glad if the Lord will honour you in doing his work. Yet, Prov. 2. 23. Return you scorners at my reproof, and I'le power out my Spirit upon you. Ier. 36. 3, 7. Read (sayes God) the words of the Roll to them: It may be they will hear, and present their supplications before the Lord, and turn every man from his evill way, that I may forgive their iniquity and their sin. Read the place if you can without tears. You that have departed from God and Christ, and provoked Gods wrath, when there is but little hope left it may be; Oh, yet read the Roll.

Mot. 4.Mot. 4. Once Christs, and under his Government, you shall never be cast off; As sin hath reigned unto death, so shal grace reign unto eternall life, Rom. 5. 21. He will bestow on you the sure mercies of David, by an everlasting Covenant, Isa. 55. 5.

Quest. Quest.But wherein should I submit to the Lord?

Answ. Answ.None have power to rule conscience but Christ, give him therefore this glory; that wherein he bindes conscience; conscience not out of fear, but love may indeed submit. I have instanced the particulars formerly, yet more distinctly. There be two great commands or charges of Christ, that lye upon all mens consciences to whom the Gospell comes, and therein lyes our service of him generally: Which two I name, because there we think we are free, or do not know our liberty.

1First, The command of Christ is, that every one to whom the Gospell comes, and is preached, do believe, i. e. receive Christ Jesus in all his fulnesse in the Gospel. Iohn 1. 12. For that is to believe; in which command lies Gods offer. 1 Iohn 5. 23. This is his commandment, that ye believe, John 6. 25, 37, 38. This is the work of God, that ye believe. Now here men think they are free. p. 831. They say they are unworthy; and hence they say, Depart from me, Lord, I am a sinfull man; as if Gods grace was built on mans worthinesse. 2. Because unhumbled, whereas Gods grace calls in men unhumbled. Rev. 8. 17, 18. For Gods call and offer is generall though none but the humble will hearken to it. But there are none, but it may be said to them; If they can believe, let them. 3. Because Christ is not theirs, & are they bound to believe he is? Whereas the first act of faith, is not to believe Christ is mine, then men were bound to believe a lie. But to receive Christ as a woman her husband, that he may be mine by saith; and so a man may know and say, he is mine. The Gospell doth no where say to any man, Christ is thine; but if thou receive him, he is thine, and consequently the Spirit speaks so also. 4. Because they cannot believe, unlesse they should presume; as if the Gospell bound the conscience of none to believe, but them that were able to believe it, and receive Christ in it: yet 'tis otherwise: for it binds all to receive Christ Jesus; to go up and possesse him, to feed, eat …, and live for ever. And I will leave this one … argument; If men are liable to eternall con…mation at the great and last day, and to bear the … wrath of God and Christ also, for disobeying the Gospell, for refusing Christ and the offer of his grace therein: Then those mens consciences are bound to obey the Gospell; i. e. to believe and receive Christ now in this life.—But all that have the Gospell preached to them, are liable to eternall condemnation, for disobedience to it. Iohn 3. 18, 19. Psal. 2. 12. Kisse the Son, lest he be ang…y. So. 2 Thes. 2. 8, 9. He comes to render vengeance on them that obey not the Gospell. Rom. …. 10. The Lord shall judge the secrets of all hearts by my Gospell. That is, where ever the Gospell comes; for they that have no law, having no law shall not by judged by it: But men that have had the Gospell, shall be judged by it, and therefore are bound to obedience thereunto.

The serious consideration of which one truth, is enough to draw all … from the power of unbelief; especially they that say▪ I cannot, or ought not believe. For the reason why me… do not come, is,

1. They think the Gospell concerns not them; what 1doth the Lord say to me, come so vile, and sinfull? yes, that he doth; if there was no such law, there could be no transgression or condemnation.

p. 8422. They think they shall presume. No, if conscience be bound to it, 'tis no prefumption, to keep a Sabbath aright, or to receive Christ as God offers him: Oh, this quiets conscience.

33. The Lord layes his chain on the most tender place of conscience, as it will answer it at the great day, or will have any peace; take heed you refuse not so great salvation.

44. 'Tis a chain, not of bondage, but of liberty, and mercy, and love: Come and receive, not a Kingdome; but Christ, Peace, pardon, and grace freely; which may draw the heart, as it will at the great and last day. Come ye blessed, take a Kingdome; take a Christ prepared for you from before the foundation of the world. Oh that this might sound in your eares: This is the first and chiefest; without this, all your obedience is hypocrisie, and abominable; but this will please, and then all poor obedience shall please.

2Secondly, Love unto the whole will of Christ; especially to that part of it, to love those that be the members of Christ. Some Christians they believe, and feeling a heart so crosse to Christ, and the will of God; think they are from under the government of God and Christ, & so from under the grace of Christ, (and the argument is strong, if true;) but why not under his government? because they find daily a spirit so crosse to the will of Christ; and hence under continuall fears of condemnation. Oh but consider, hast thou no love to the will of Christ and law of God? (for if any believe, this is found in him) if so, then under Christs Government. Rom. 8. 2. The Law of the spirit of life hath made me free. What is that Law? See Chap. 7. 23, 24. Spirit of delight in the Law in the inner man, and mourning for contrary captivity. Know therefore, though you cannot do all; yet love the whole will of God, and mourn where you do not; and then say. Now no condemnation. Do not say, 'Tis impossible, Oh, here is mens wo, and tryall of subjection to Christs will! How do you love it, love his Sabbaths and Ordinances, because of his love to you? How do's this constrain you?

In particular; Love the people of God, that is, his speciall commandment, 1 Iohn 3. 23. Iohn 13. 34. But now the want hereof, or the contrary hereto: As when a man shall become, 1. A Distaster. 2. A Contemner. p. 853. A Censurer, and whisperer. 4. A Sooffer. 5. If met on a Bridge, an opposer of the Truths or servants of God. This is that which kindles wrath, and wherein the inward venome of hypocrisie appears. There's many duties neglected, and not that spirit of prayer, and holy conferences amongst Christians; yet do you keep love to them; that what you cannot do your selves, yet you love others that can do it, and account it your blessednesse to be like them, and daily mourn under your neglects; that in every thing, the Gospel is not adorned by you: & on the other side, although you have many duties, Sabbaths, and good acts; yet if not love, all is vile. I fear 'tis not mens joy, sweetnesse, delight to hear the least good word that falls from a good mans lips, but rather the truths and things of God despised; if so, then look for wo. And for … Christ, their lives not desired, their deaths not lamented, but you know how to contend, and are carelesse though the Gospell and God be slandered; you … of the Lords yoke. It was one mans speech, that the great sin of this Countrey will be hatred of the Saints, a scornful contempt of them; It will come by degrees, first distaste, and then censure and contemne. O…, but if herein you submit, herein Christ is honoured, and Gospell glorified in love and amiablenesse: Not in a rigorous austerity of spirit, and diabolicall censoriousnesse; but in word and deed, countenance and gesture, comforting and encouraging one another.

When David would know what to do; Truly saith he, my goodnesse extends not to thee; but to the Saints, in whom is all my delight; Oh therefore submit here; this conscience calls for, and Christ must have.

To conclude with a word for help here.

Means 1.Means 1. Look to Gods Ordinances, not as they be in themselves; but as appointed of God, to communicate an almighty power of spirit to them that wait on the Lord in them. An almighty power must overcome, and go on Conquering, and to Conquer. How shall we have this by Gods Ordinances? Some more principall, as Word and Sacraments; some lesse, How shall we partake of this power in them? Look not on them in themselves, but as appointed and sanctified, and so as glorious. And there pray and wait, and look for the p. 86power; nay, believe you shall receive this power. As the … of Iordan to Na…man; How did they cleanse? Whe… … lookt upon them without the command and …, he despised the…, and so found not the benefit of them, but afterwards hee found the benefit of them, when he washed seven times in attendance to the appointment of God. Brethren, it is but go and wash here. 1 Cor. 10. 5.

Means 2.… 2. Know your disobedience, the breadth of it: Some things Christians see, and pray against them, and then all is well; but see the breadth of evill in your disobedience. There is something that doth oppose God in every lawfull thing, in whole or in part, (for flesh is in it) or else you are blinded if you see it not. Oh therefore feel the breadth of evill in it; that being sensible of, and humbled under, and striving against your continuall disobedience; every thought may be brought into subjection and obedience to Christ.