A Dissuasive from Conformity to the World, Treatise 1

A Dissuasive from Conformity to the World · Treatise 1

p. 1NON-CONFORMITY TO THIS WORLD.

Rom. 12. 2.

And be not conformed to this world.

IN this and the foregoing verse we have an exhortation to holiness, branched out into three particulars.

1. That we present our bodies, a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God.

2. And not be conformed to this world.

3. But to be transformed by the renewing of our mind.

I beseech you: though I might be bold in Christ to enjoyn you, yet for love sake, I rather beseech you, pray and intreat you.

Therefore, seeing you have received so much mercy from God through Christ.

Brethren, being all the Children of God through faith in Christ. Gal. 3. 26.

By the mercies of God, bestowed on you. Gods mercy is one, but the effects and p. 2fruits of it are many; Election, Redemption, Justification.

That you present your Bodies; not your Souls onelyonly, but your Bodies also: God will have the Body conformed to his will, and not to the world, as well as the Soul; for the Body is for the Lord, for the service of the Lord, and the Lord for the Body, 1 Cor. 6. 13. Our Bodies being his, and bought with a price, 1 Cor. 16. 19, 20. Our Bodies being the members of Christ, 1 Cor. 6. 15. and therefore also must we glorifie God with our Bodies, 1 Cor. 6. 20.

The Apostle praying for the Thessalonians, prayes that their Bodies, as well as their Souls, might be sanctified, 1 Thes. 5. 23. I note this the rather, because many think they may do what they will with, and make what use they will of their Bodies; but they are greatly deceived, for the Body is not for Fornication, 1 Cor. 6. 15. no not for Ostentation, to make a shew with it. Read, Rom. 6. 13, 19.

That you present them; 1. That you offer and consecrate them to God as a Sacrifice of thankfulness; as Heb. 13. 35.

p. 3A living sacrifice, dead indeed unto sin, but alive to God, Rom. 6. 11. being quickned by his spirit, that we might not live to our selves, but to him who died for us, 2 Cor. 5. 15.

Holy, not regarding, but hating iniquity in our hearts; for if iniquity be regarded, we cannot be accepted: Psalm 66. 18.

Acceptable to God, well pleasing to him through Jesus Christ, 1 Pet. 2. 5. through faith in him, without which we cannot please God, Heb. 11. 6.

Which is your reasonable service. 1. Your service of God, which consists not in the offering up of unreasonable Beasts, as heretofore, but in the offering up of your reasonable selves. Or, Your service, which is agreeable to the Rules of true Reason.

And be not conformed: 1. Take not upon you the form or fashion of this wicked world, make not the Manners and Pleasures of worldly men your rule to walk by.

But be ye transformed, changed, altered. 1. More and more.

By the renewing of your mind, understanding, will and affections.

p. 4That ye may prove.

1. Discern, understand.

2. Approve.

3. Give proof by a Godly life that you do understand and approve.

That good, acceptable and perfect will of God.

1. Good, which teacheth, and leadeth to that which is good, and makes good.

2. Acceptable, nothing being acceptable to God but what is according to his will.

3. Perfect, comprehending all things necessary to salvation, 2 Tim. 3. 16.

These words, And be not conformed to this world, are a Dehortation: Wherein,

1. The Persons Dehorting, Paul a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an Apostle, one that well understood the mind of his Lord and Master, and would give nothing in charge but what he had received, 1 Cor. 11. 23.

2. The Persons Dehorted, The believing Romans, beloved of God, called to be Saints, Rom. 1. 7. Yea, eminent Saints, Rom. 1. 18. Such as had obeyed from the heart, Rom. 6. 17.

3. The thing they are Dehorted from, viz. Conformity to this world, which you, p. 5who are Saints, and called to the Kingdom and Glory of God, should look upon with contempt, and trample under foot.

4. The Mode of the Dehortation, tis in a beseeching way; I beseech you.

5. The Motive; By the mercies of God.

Doct. 'Tis the will of the most holy God, that they who are called to be Saints should not conform to sinners. They that are called out of the world must not be conformed to this world.

I shall shew you,

1. What is meant by the World.

2. What meant by conformed.

3. What of the World must not be conformed unto.

4. That it is so.

5. Why.

6. The Use.

First, What is meant by the World? By the world understand The Men of the world, Psal. 17. 14. Worldly minded Men and Women, who have their hearts, inheritance, and happiness here, their portion in this life. The wicked of the world, Joh. 14. 17.

p. 6These are called the World,

1. Because they are ruled by the God of this world, 2 Cor. 4. 4. Eph. 2. 2.

2. Because they have received onelyonly the spirit of the world, that spirit which teacheth worldly things, and placeth its happiness in worldly things, 1 Cor. 2. 12.

3. Because they are satisfied and contented with the things of this world, Psal. 4. 6. & 17. 14. Phil. 3. 19.

4. Because they are the major part of world.

Secondly, What meant by Conformed?

By conforming to the world understand, fashioning our selves according to it; resembling the world, and being like to it; making the men of the world our Pattern, our Example, and Copy to write after.

When we approve, imitate and follow the sinful fashions and practices of this world, then we conform to it.

Now, not to be Conformed to this world, is not to approve, not to imitate, not to follow the sinful, vain, foolish fashions and practices of this world.

Not to put on their form and shape in our behaviour.

p. 7Thirdly, What of the world it is wherein we must not be conformed unto it.

1. Not in that wickedness the world lies in, 1 Joh. 5. 19.

Not in that unrighteousness it is filled with: a Catalogue whereof is set down, Rom. 1. 29, 30, 31.

Not in those works of darkness it delights in, Rom. 13. 12, 13.

Not in those works of the flesh, set down Gal. 5. 19, 20, 21.

Not in the walk of the Gentiles, Ephes. 4. 17, 18, 19. 1 Pet. 4. 3.

Not in its lustings, 1 Joh. 2. 16.

We must not be conformed … in its sinful Customs, Dispositions, Practices.

We must not be conformed to the practice of worldly men, in Natural, Civil, and Religious actions.

We must not eat and drink as they do, for they feed themselves without fear; Jude 12.

We must not buy and sell as they do, for therein they walk not by that rule Mat. 7. 12.

We must not carry our selves in Religious matters as they do.

p. 8We must not hear as they do, for they hear without preparation before hearing,

Attention at hearing.

Affection at hearing.

Application at hearing.

Practice after hearing. See Ezek. 33. 31.

We must not pray as they do: For

1. They make light of Prayer, Job 21. 15.

2. They Pray with the lip onelyonly, and not with the heart, Isa. 29. 13. Mat. 15. 18.

3. They continue not in Prayer, they grow weary.

4. They think to be heard for their much speaking, Matth. 6. 7.

5. They turn away their ear from heari… … whom they Pray, Prov. 28. 9.

6. They aim amiss in Prayer, Jam. 4. 3.

We must not come to the Lords Table as they do, for they come unpreparedly.

Nor observe Sabbaths as they do, for they trifle them away.

Nor sing Psalms as they do, for they sing not with the heart, but voice onelyonly.

Nor fast as they do, for they abstain onelyonly from food, not from sin.

Fourthly, That it is so, That Saints must not conform to sinners.

Thou shalt not follow a multitude to do evil, Exod. 23. 2.

p. 9After the doing of the Land of Egypt and Canaan shall ye not do, neither shall ye walk in their ordinances: Levit. 18. 3.

Thou shalt not learn to do after the abominations of the Nations: Deut. 18. 9.

Walk not in the way of sinners, refrain thy foot from their path: Prov. 1. 15.

Enter not into the path of the wicked, go not in the way of evil men: Avoid it, pass not by it, turn from it, and pass away: Prov. 4. 14, 15.

If sinners entice thee, consent thou not: Prov. 1. 10.

Thus saith the Lord, Learn not the way of the Heathen: Jer. 10. 2.

Though Israel play the Harlot, yet let not Judah offend: Hos. 4. 15.

This I say therefore, and testifie in the Lord, that ye henceforth walk not as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind: Ephes. 4. 17.

Have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them: Ephes. 5. 11.

Ye are children of the light, and of the day; not of the night, nor of darkness: Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober: 1 Thes. 5. 5, 6.

p. 10The Kings of the Gentiles do so and so… But ye shall not be so: Luke 22. 25, 26.

St. Peter speaks of some Converts that would not run with the world in their sinful fashions and courses, though they were wonder'd at and evil spoken of therefore; 1 Pet. 4 4.

Fifthly, Why.

1. From the World.

2. From themselves.

3. From Christ.

4. From the things themselves wherein conformity to the world is practiced.

First, From this World.

1. Because Satan is the God and Prince of it, 2 Cor. 4. 4. Joh. 12. 31. & 14. 13. & 16. 11.

2. Because 'tis an evil world, Gal. 1. 4. and lyes in wickedness, 1 John 5. 19. See its description, Psal. 36. 1, to 5. & Rom. 3. 11, &c. & 8. 7. Ephes. 4. 18, 19.

3. Because this evil world must give account, even for those things wherein we are so prone to follow it, 1 Pet. 4. 5.

4. Because the end of it is destruction, Phil. 3. 19. You would not suffer with it, and will you sin with it?

p. 11Secondly, From themselves, who by profession are Saints, Christians.

1. Because they are not of the world, but are called out of it; Joh. 15. 19.

God hath seperated you from others to be his own peculiar; Levit. 20. 24. Exod. 19. 5.

Hence, for this cause, as well as others, 'twas that God was displeased with his people of old, for desiring a King, that they might be like the Nations, 1 Sam. 8. 5. viz. Because God hath severed them from other people that they should be his: Levit. 20. 26.

2. Because they have better Principles, then the world has, viz.

1 Tim. 1. 5.

A pure Heart,

Good Conscience,

Faith unfeigned,

They have Christ in them, as a principle of their life, Gal. 2. 20. And the spirit of God, 1 John 4. 4. 1 Cor. 2. 12.

The Principles of the world are,

An impure Heart,

A bad Conscience,

Real unbelief.

Yea Satan, Ephes. 2. 2. 1 Pet. … 4. and the spirit of the world, 1 Cor. 2. 12.

p. 12Now is not this a good reason why the people of God should not conform to this world? for should they of better principles conform to them of worse? should they that have a pure Heart, good Conscience, and Faith unfeigned, conform to those that have an impure Heart, a bad Conscience, and real Unbelief? Should they who have Christ and the Spirit of God in them, conform to them who have Satan and the Spirit of the world in them?

3. Because they have better patterns to conform to, then the world is, viz.

1. God, 1 Pet. 1. 15, 16.

2. Christ, Col. 2. 6. 1 John 2. 6.

3. Saints, Heb. 6. 12. Phil. 3. 17.

Mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample: So as ye have the servants of Christ, not the world for your example.

4. Angels and glorified Saints. We must study so to do the will of God on Earth, as 'tis done in Heaven: Matth. 6. 10.

Now, judge in your own Consciences, should they who have such excellent patterns, conform to the pattern of a base world?

p. 134. Because they are bound by their Baptism to the contrary, viz. To renounce the world, the pomps and vanities thereof, and not to follow, or to be led by it. Now should we do that which is a breach of our Baptismal Covenant.

5. Because you that are Saints are born to great matters, even to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled, &c. 1 Pet. 1. 3, 4. and should you, persons that are new born to so great an estate, should you please your selves in a conformity to the poor things of this world?

6. Because you are grown up to maturity, to years of discretion; so that it is time for you to put away childish things: Whilst you were Children 'twas more tollerable, but now that you are grown up to be men, to be so childish and foolish is intollerable. See 1 Cor. 13. 11.

7. Because you are more excellent then your neighbour, Prov. 12. 26. and therefore must not conform to them. For shall the more noble conform to the more ignoble? Ye are Gods treasure, Psal. 135. 4. And shall Gods treasure conform to the refuse of this world? You are Priests of God, 1 Pet. 2. 9. And shall the Priests of God conform to common people? The p. 14Priests of old were not to touch any unclean thing.

8. Because you have not so learned Christ, Ephes. 4. 20. q. d. The Doctrine of Christ in which you are instructed, and which you have learned, requires another manner of life from you, then that which the Gentiles lead, therefore you should not imitate them. Christ hath taught you otherwise, The grace of God which bringeth salvation, teacheth you to deny ungodliness and worldly lusts, and to live Righteously, soberly, and godly in this present world; and not to conform to its unrighteous, intemperate and ungodly life, Tit. 2. 11.

9. Because you are now within sight of home, your Fathers house; and your salvation is nearer, and therefore must cast off the works of darkness, and walk honestly as in the day, not in rioting, drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying: As the world does. Rom. 13. 11, 12. Your thoughts should now be so taken up and pleased with what you have in view, the great things which are to come, and so near to come, that all the toyes and trifles this world is so much pleased with, should be looked upon by you with disdain.

p. 1510. Because you shall now very speedily be separated from this world, and distinguished from it, and delivered from that wrath which they shall suffer for ever and for ever; and will you conform to them now, in those things for which they shall suffer the vengeance of eternal fire? would you have your souls gathered hereafter with those you conform to here, and whose fashions you have learned here? David would not, Psal. 26. 9.

Thirdly, From Christ.

1. Because Christ designedly gave himself to deliver us from this present evil world according to the will of God and our Father, Gal. 1. 4. To what he gave himself, see Isa. 50. 6. & 52. 14. His back to smiters, his checks to them that plucked off the hair, his face to shame and spitting. Consider this you proud men and women, whose Backs, Faces, Heads, Necks, Brests, and Armes, shew the pride of your Hearts. Did Christ give himself to suffer all this, that he might separate and deliver you from conformity to this world? And is not this a good Reason why you should not conform unto it, in hair, habit, and nakedness.

p. 162. Because Christ and his Kingdom is not of this world. 1. Christ is not of it, Joh. 8. 23. 2. His Kingdom is not of it, Joh. 18. 36. Not onelyonly in respect of the subjects, but in opposition to worldly Kingdoms, which come with external pomp and observation. But Christ's Kingdom is not so, Luke 17. 20, 21.

Fourthly, From the things themselves wherein conformity to the world is practiced.

1. Because these things are not of the Father, but of the Devil, and the world, 1 Joh. 2. 16.

2. Because the love of these will not consist with the love of God, 1 Joh. 2. 15.

3. Because these things pass away, 1 Cor. 7. 31. 1 Joh. 2. 17.

Sixthly, The Use.

1. Of Information. Then the best are prone to conformity to this world, so far as they are carnal; what need else of this Prohibition, Be not conformed to this world. Even Joseph was found guilty of conformity to Pharaohs Courtiers in swearing by the life of Pharaoh, Gen. 42. 15, 16.

2. Use of Reproof, Of such as profess themselves to be Saints, and to be called to fellowship with Christ, and yet have fellowship p. 17with the unfruitful works of darkness; who profess themselves to be called out of the world, and yet conform unto it; who profess themselves to be Saints, and yet live like sinners. God finds fault with this, and is much displeased that his people should learn the works of the Heathen, Psal. 106. 35. And think you it doth not displease him that we should learn the fashions of the world, and serve their Idols, Psal. 106. 36. Do not they whose fashions you learn, make Idols of their Hair, Skin, and Habit? and will you serve their Idols? Pray God they prove not a snare unto you. Read, 1 King. 14. 24. 2 King. 17. 33. 2 Chron. 13. 9. & 25. 14, 15.

May we not well say to such as conform to this world, as Jehu the Prophet said to Jehosaphat, 2 Chron. 19. 2. should you conform to the ungodly, and love and like the practices of them that hate the Lord! Pray God wrath may not come upon you for this. Hezekiah a good man was proud of his fine things, 2 Chron. 32. 25, 26. with 2 King. 20. 13. but wrath came upon him for it. Read, Ezek. 23. 26.

p. 183. Use of Examination. Do not we conform to this world? even we who in some things are Non-conformists?

Do not many, who in some things separate from the world, in other things conform unto it?

Do not many that separate from their worship, conform to their works?

Have not many fellowship with the world in the unfruitful works of darkness, that will have no fellowship with them in worship?

The world is for rioting, drunkenness, chambering and wantonness, strife and envying, Rom. 13. 13. Would Professors were not so too?

The world is for lasciviousness, lusts, excess of Wine, revellings, banquetings, 1 Pet. 4. 3. Would Professors were not so too?

All that is in the world, is the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eye, and the pride of life, 1 Joh. 2. 16. Now I beseech you let's deal truly with our selves, do not we conform to this world in these? In lusting after Pleasure, Profit, and Preferment; are not▪ these in too great account with us? Do not we love, desire, and seek after these? Would you that are Professors could wash your hands from voluptuousness, p. 19covetousness, pride and vain glory.

Take a view of the world, and then take a view of your selves, and then judge whether you do not conform unto it.

The world is,

Atheistical, without God in the world, Psal. 14. 1. Eph. 2. 12. Are not we so too, or very near it? See Isa. 49. 14. & 51. 13. Psal. 77. 9.

Blasphemous, Psal. 74. 18. And are not we guilty of this too much? See Rom. 2. 24.

Covetous, 2 Pet. 2. 14. And are not Professors so too? Judas a Professor, and Demas a Professor were so; 2 Tim. 4. 10.

Defrauding, Rom. 1. 29. And do not Professors the same? See 1 Cor. 6. 8.

Envious, Gal. 5. 21. And are not Professors so too? See 1 Cor. 3. 3.

p. 20Fearful of suffering for religion; of these read, Rev. 21. 8. And are not Professors so too? See Matth. 13. 21. Even Peter was too fearful.

God-distrusting, Psal. 20. 7. Jer. 17. 5. And are not Professors so too? See Isa. 31. 1.

Haughty, Rom. 1. 30. And are not Professors so too? See 2 Tim. 3▪ 2, with 5. Did not the Disciples of Christ affect superiority?

Idle, Sloathful, Ezek. 16. 49. And are not Professors so too? 2 Thes. 3. 11. 1 Tim. 3. 13. Matth. 25. 26.

Kain-like, Brother hating; 1 Joh. 3. 13. Prov. 29. 27. Joh. 15. 18, 19. And are not Professors so too? See Jude 11.

Lukewarme, Indifferent, 1 King. 18. 21. And are not Professors so too? See Rev. 3. 16.

Murmuring, 2 King. 6. 33. Rev. 16. 10, 11. Isa. 8. 31. And are not Professors so too? See 1 Cor. 10. 10.

p. 21Negligent, neglects duty to God and man. 1. To God, Psal. 14. 4. 2. To man, Ezek. 16. 5. And are not Professors so too?

Offence-giving, Matth. 18. 7. Do not Professors do so too? They did in Pauls time, Rom. 14.

Passionate, froward, …retful; as Nabal, 1 Sam. 25. 17. Are not Professors so too? See Jonah 4. 9.

Quarrelsom, Contentious; Are not Professors so too? See 1 Cor. 1. 11. & 6. 7.

Revengeful; Are not Professors so too? See Luke 9. 54.

Secure, like Laish, Judg. 18. 7. Are not Professors so too? See Jer. 8. 6, 7. Hos. 7. 9.

Treacherous; Are not Professors so too? Mic. 7. 4, 5.

Uncharitable; Mat. 25. 42, 43. Are not Professors so too? See Jam. 2. 15, 16. Job. 3. 17

p. 22Wavering, unbelieving; Joh. 5. 38. & 10. 26. Joh. 12. 39, 47. And are not Professors so too? See Joh. 6. 60, 64, 66. Yea, see Luke 24. 25. Joh. 20. 25.

4. Use of Dehortation. Be not conformed to this world.

That I may the better disswade you from conformity to this world, I shall shew you,

1. What they are called to whom you are beseeched not to conform.

2. What those things are called wherein you are desired not to conform.

3. What you your selves are called, who are disswaded from conformity to this world.

4. How God is affected and carries towards this world which you are beseeched not to conform to.

5. How the world is affected and carries towards you who are disswaded from this conformity.

First, What they are called, to whom you are beseeched not to conform.

They are called,

1. Men of this world, Psal. 17. 14 whose portion is in this life.

p. 23Now shall those who have God to be their portion, Psal. 16. 5. conform to these?

2. The Children of this world, Luke 16. 8. who are well pleased with the rattles, toyes and trifles of this world.

Now shall those who are born of God, to an inheritance incorruptible, &c. 1 Pet. 1. 3. conform to these?

3. The Disputers of this world: The enquirers of this age, so the Dutch, 1 Cor. 1. 20.

Now shall those who have the Scriptures to search. Joh. 5. 39. conform to these?

4. The Fornicators of this world, 1 Cor. 5. 10.

Now shall the chaste Virgins of Christ, 2 Cor. 11. 2. conform to these?

5. The Friends of this world, Jam. 4. 4. who are the enemies of God.

Now shall the Friends of God, Joh. 15. 14, 15. conform to these?

6. The Rich in this world, who are apt to be high minded, 1 Tim. 6. 17.

Now shall the Humble and Contrite, with whom the high and lofty One vouchsafes to dwell, Isa. 57. 15. conform to these?

p. 24Secondly, What those things are called wherein you are desired not to conform to this world.

1. The darkness of this world, Eph. 6. 12.

Now shall they that are light in the Lord, Eph. 5. 8. conform to the world in its darkness?

2. The Wisdom of this world, 1 Cor. 2. 6. & 3. 9. which descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish, James 3. 15.

Now shall a wise man endued with wisdom from above, Jam. 3. 13, 17. conform to this earthly, sensual, devilish wisdom of the world?

3. The Cares of this world, Mat. 13. 22.

Now shall they who have a Father in Heaven, who knoweth their needs, and careth for them, Mat. 6. 32. 1 Pet. 5. 7. care as the world doth?

4. The Course of this world, Eph. 2. 2.

Now shall they who are called out of the world, and now are not of the world, Joh. 15. 19. and whom the world hates, run the course of this world?

5. The Fashion of this world which passeth away, 1 Cor. 7. 31.

p. 25Now shall they who have in Heaven a better and more enduring substance, Heb. 10. 34. fall in love with the fashions of this world?

6. The lusts of men, 1 Pet. 4. 2.

Now shall they who have Gods law written in their hearts, Heb. 8. 10. live according to the lusts of men?

Thirdly, What you your selves are called, who are diswaded from conformity to this world.

1. Adopted Sons, Gal. 4. 5. Sons and Daughters, 2 Cor. 6. 18. Others, the ungodly, men of the world are called Bastards, Heb. 12. 8.

Now shall the Sons and Daughters of God conform to the Bastards of this world?

2. Alive to God, Rom. 6. 11. Others are dead in sin, Ephes. 2. 1. Luke 15. 32.

Now shall they who are a live to God, conform to those who are dead in sin? I say as Paul in a like case, 1 Cor. 6. 15. God forbid.

3. Believers, Act. 5. 14. The men of the world are called unbelievers, 2 Cor. 6. 14.

p. 26Now shall Believers conform to, and yoke with unbelievers?

God forbid.

4. Blessed of the Lord, Gen. 26. 29. Psal. 115. 15. The wicked are the Cursed of the Lord, Psal. 37. 22.

Now shall the Blessed of the Lord, conform to the Curfed of the Lord?

God forbid.

5. Children of God, 1 Joh. 3. 10. The wicked are called Children of the Devil, 1 Joh. 3. 10.

Now shall the Children of God conform to the Children of the Devil?

God forbid.

6. Children of Light, Luk. 16. 8. 1 Thes. 5. 5. The men of the world are called Children of Darkness, 1 Thes. 5. 5.

Now shall the Children of Light conform to the Children of Darkness?

God forbid.

7. Children of wisdom, Matth. 11. 19. The wicked are called sottish Children, that have no understanding, Jer. 4. 22.

Now shall the Children of wisdom conform to the sots of this world?

God forbid.

p. 278. Children of the free woman, Gal. 4. 30, 31. The wicked are called the Children of the bond woman, Ibid.

Now shall the Children of the free woman conform to the Children of the bond?

God forbid.

9. Children of Sion, Psal. 149. 2. Babilon also has Children, for she is the Mother of Harlots and abominations, Rev. 17. 15.

Now shall the Children of Sion conform to the Children of Babilon?

God forbid.

10. Children of the Highest, Luke 6. 35. Who dwels in the high and holy place, Isa. 57. 15. The wicked are called the Children of this world, Luke 16. 8. and Inhabiters of the Earth, Rev. 12. 12.

Now shall the Children of the Highest conform to the Children of this low world?

God forbid.

11. Christians, Act. 11. 26. Some crucifie him afresh, Heb. 6. 6. as they do who reckon of him and reject him, as the Jews did who crucified him.

Now shall Christians conform to the crucifiers of Christ? God forbid.

p. 2812. Christs Brother, Sister, and Mother, Matth. 12. 50. The wicked are Aliens from the Church of Christ, and strangers from the Covenants of Promise, Ephes. 2. 12.

Now shall Christs Brother, Sister, and Mother, conform to strangers?

God forbid.

13. Crown of glory, Royal Diadem, Isa. 62. 3. The wicked are Christs footstool, Psal. 110. 1.

Now shall Crowns of glory, and Royal Diadems conform to foot-stools?

God forbid.

14. Devout, Act. 2. 5. Act. 10 2. The wicked are without God, Eph. 2. 12.

Now shall the Devout conform to those who are without God in the world?

God forbid.

15. Discreet, who guide their affairs with discretion, Psal. 112. 5. The wicked are void of counsel, Deut. 32. 28. and oft-times their counsels, such as they are, are carried Headlong, Job 5. 13.

Now shall they who do or should guide their affairs with discretion, conform to those who are void of counsel, p. 29or whole counsel is carried headlong?

God forbid.

16. Elect of God, Col. 3. 12. The wicked are rejected of God, Jer. 6. 30.

Now shall the Elected of God, conform to the rejected of God?

God forbid.

17. Espoused of Christ, 2 Cor. 11. 2. Hos. 2. 19. The wicked are called Adulterers and Adulteresses, Jam. 4. 4.

Now shall the Espoused of Christ conform to the Adulterers and Adulteresses of this world?

God forbid.

18. Friends of Christ, Joh. 15. 14, 15. The wicked are called his Enemies, Luke 19. 27.

Now shall the Friends of Christ, conform to the Enemies of Christ?

God forbid.

19. Faithful servants, Matth. 24. 45. & 25. 23. The wicked are called Sloathful servants, Matth. 25. 26.

Now shall Faithful servants conform to Sloathful servants?

God forbid.

p. 3020. Good, Matth. 12. 35. The wicked are called Evil, ibid. and naught, Prov. 6. 12.

Now shall the Good conform to the Evil?

God forbid.

21. Godly, Psal. 12. 1. The wicked are called Ungodly, Psal. 1. 4.

Now shall the Godly conform to the Ungodly?

God forbid.

22. Gold, Job 23. 10. The wicked are likened to Dross, Psal. 119. 119.

Now shall Gods Gold conform to the Dross of this world?

God forbid.

23. Happy, Psal. 144. 15. The wicked are Miserable, Rev. 3. 17.

Now shall the Happy conform to the Miserable?

God forbid.

24. Heavenly, Having their conversation in Heaven, Phil. 3. 20. The wicked are Earthly, minding Earthly things, Phil. 3. 19. Men of the Earth, Psal. 10. 18.

p. 31Now shall the Heavenly conform to the Earthly?

God forbid.

25. Houshold of God, Eph. 2. 19. And Houshold of faith, Gal. 6. 10. The wicked are the Houshold of Satan, 2 Cor. 4. 4. The Devils work-house, Ephes. 2. 2.

Now shall the Houshold of God conform to the Houshold of Satan?

God forbid.

26. Jewels, Gods Jewels, Mal. 3. 17. The wicked are Worthless, Prov. 10. 20.

Now shall Jewels of great price, conform to the Worthless things of this world?

God forbid.

27. Innocent, Job 4. 7. Jer. 19. 4. The wicked are Hurtful, Bryars and Thorns, Isa. 27. 4.

Now shall the Innocent conform to the Hurtful?

God forbid.

28. Kings and Priests, Rev. 1. 6. The wicked are called Common and Unclean, Act. 10. 28.

p. 32Now shall Kings and Priests conform to the Common and Unclean?

God forbid.

29. Lambs, Joh. 21. 15. Isa. 40. 11. The wicked are Lions, Wolves, Mat. 10. 16.

Now shall Sheep and Lambs conform to Lions and Wolves?

God forbid.

30. Lords Freemen, 1 Cor. 7. 22. The wicked are Satans bondmen, 2 Tim. 2. 28.

Now shall, &c. God forbid.

31. Meek of the Earth, Zeph. 2. 3. Psal. 149. 4. The wicked are Raging waves of the Sea foaming out their own shame, Jude 13.

Now shall, &c. God forbid.

32. Members of Christ, 1 Cor. 6. 15. Eph. 5. 30. Some wicked are Members of an Harlot, ibid. Limbs of Satan.

Now shall, &c. God forbid.

33. Men of Wisdom, Micah 6. 9. The wicked are Mad, Eccles. 9. 3. Act. 26. 11. Not themselves, Luke 15. 17.

Now shall, &c. God forbid.

34. Merciful, Matth. 5. 7. Psal. 37. 26. The wicked are Unmerciful and cruel, Matth. 25. 42, 43.

p. 33Now shall, &c. God forbid.

35. Mourners, Matth. 5. 4. The wicked are all for Mirth, carnal Mirth, Isa. 22. 13. Amos 6. 5, 6.

Now shall, &c. God forbid.

36. New creatures, 2 Cor. 5. 17. The wicked are Old in sin; of some 'tis said they were Old in Adulteries, Ezek. 23. 43. Corrupt nature in them is called the Old man, Ephes. 4. 22.

Now shall, &c. God forbid.

37. Old Disciples, so some are called, Act. 21. 16. And Fathers, 1 Joh. 2. 13. Some are Young, raw, unexperienced Professors.

And shall Old Disciples conform to th…se? God forbid.

38 Obed…ent, Rom. 6. 17. The wicked are called Disobedient, Tit. 1. 15. 1 Tim. 1. 9.

Now shall, &c. God forbid.

39 Precious, Jer. 15. 19. Isa. 43. 4. Excellent, Psal. 16. 3. Precious So…s of Sion, Lam. 4. 2. The wicked are Vile, Jer. 15. 19. The wicked are called Vile persons, Psal. 15. 4. Dan. 11. 21.

p. 34Now shall, &c. God forbid.

40. Quiet, Psal. 35. 20. according to the injunction given, 1 Thes. 4. 11. The wicked are unquiet like the troubled Sea which cannot rest, Isa. 57. 20. Given to change, Prov 24. 21. And busie Bodies in other mens matters, 1. Pet. 4. 15. 2 Thes. 3. 11.

Now shall, &c. God forbid.

41. Righteous, Matth. 13. 13. Isa. 3. 10. Matth. 25. 46. The wicked are Unrighteous, 1 Cor. 6. 9. Enemies of Righteousness, Act. 3. 10.

Now shall, &c. God forbid.

42. Redeemed of the Lord, Isa. 62. 12. The wicked are Forsaken, left in Bondage, ibid. And Reprobate Silver, rejected of God, Jer. 6. 30.

Now shall, &c. God forbid.

43. Sanctified in Christ, 1 Cor. 1. 2. Saints, Saints of the most High, Dan. 7. 25, 27. The Holy people, Isa. 62. 12. A Holy Nation, 1. Pet. 2. 9. The wicked are Unholy and Profane, 1. Tim. 1. 9. 2 Tim. 3. 2. Bruit beasts, 2 Pet. 2. 12. Swine, Matth. 7. 6.

p. 35Now shall, &c. God forbid.

44. …ervants of the most high God, Dan, 3. 26. Act. 16. 17. The wicked are the Servants of Sin, Rom. 6. 17. and of divers Lusts, Tit. 3. 3.

And shall, &c. God forbid.

45. Spiritual men, 1 Cor. 2. 15. The wicked, Natural men, 1 Cor. 2. 14.

And shall, &c. God forbid.

46 Springs, a Fountain sealed, Cant. 4. 12. The wicked are Wells without Water, 2 Pet. 2 17.

And shall, &c. God forbid.

47. Treasure, yea Gods peculiar Treasure, Psal. 135. 4. The wicked are called Dross, Psal. 119. 119.

Now shall, &c. God forbid.

48. Trees planted by the water side which bring forth fruit, Psal. 1. 3. The wicked are Trees without fruit, twice dead, &c. Iude 12.

And shall, &c. God forbid.

49. Temples of God, wherein God, Christ, and his Spirit dwels. 1. God, 1 Joh. 4. 12. 13, 15. 2. Christ, Ephes. 3. 17. 3. The Spirit, Rom. 8. 11. The wicked are the Synagogue of Satan, Rev. 2. 9. & 3. 9. wherein the Devil rules, Eph. 2. 2.

p. 36And shall, &c. God forbid.

50. Vessels of Gold and Silver, 2 Tim. 2. 20. The wicked are called Vessels of Wood and Earth, ibid.

And shall, &c. God forbid.

51. Vines, Noble Vines, Jer. 2. 21. The wicked are called Dege…erate Plants, ibid.

And shall, &c. God forbid.

52. Undefiled, Psal. 119. 1. Pure in heart, Matth. 5. The wicked are filthy, Rev. 22. 11.

Now shall, &c. God forbid.

53. Wheat▪ Matth. 3. 12. The wicked are Chaff, Matth. 3. 12. Zeph. 2. 2. and Tares, Matth. 13. 38.

Now shall, &c. God forbid.

54. Wise in Heart, Prov. 10. 8. The wicked are Prating fools, Prov. 10. 8.

Now shall, &c. God forbid.

55. Wise Virgins, Matth. 25. 2, 3, 4. The wicked called foolish Virgins, ibid.

Now shall, &c. God forbid.

56. Workmanship of God, Ephes. 2. 10. The wicked are the workmanship of the Devil, John 8. 44.

Now shall, &c. God forbid.

p. 37Fourthly, How God is affected and carries towards this world, which you are beseeched not to conform to.

1. His soul hates them, Psal. 11. 5.

2. He is angry with them every day, Psal. 7. 11.

3. He resisteth them, Jam. 4. 6. 1 Pet. 5. 5.

4. He hides his face from them, and will not hear them▪ Isa. 59. 2. Jer. 14. 12.

5. He puts them away like dross, Psal. 119. 119.

6. He will consume them, Jer. 14. 12. Rain saares, Fire and Brimstone upon them, Psal. 11. 6.

Destroy them, Psal. 145. 20.

Turn them into Hell, Psal. 9. 16.

Now will you who profess your selves to be the people of God, and to be beloved of God, conform to those whom Gods soul hates; with whom he is angry every day; whom he resisteth, &c. Will you conform to those towards whom he thus carries himself? God forbid.

Fifthly, How the world carries, and is affected towards you who are disswaded from this conformity.

p. 381. They hate and abhor you, Joh. 15. 19. Prov. 29. 27. according to that antient sentence, Gen. 3. 15.

2. They scorn you, Psal. 44. 13. & 79. 4. Job 30. 1.

3. They scoff at you, Gen. 21. 9. Lam. 1. 7.

4. They make songs upon you, Job 30. 9, 10.

5. They speak evil of you, 1 Pet. 4. 4.

6. They seperate from you, and will not conform to you in Gods wayes.

And will you conform to these? what to those that hate you, scorn you, scoff at you, make songs upon you, speak evil of you, and separate from you in Gods ways? Will you conform to these in the Devils ways? God forbid.

O sirs let them return to you, but do not you return to them, Ier. 15. 19.

Three sorts make up this evil World:

The

Voluptuous.

Covetous.

Proud.

Be not conformed to either,

1. I beseech you by the mercies of God be not conformed to the voluptuous of this world.

p. 39There are that,

Attire, Adorn, dress and habit themselves to draw the Eyes of others to behold them, after the example of Tamar, Gen. 38. 14. who put off her widdows garment, and put on something the better to allure her Father in Law. See Prov. 6. 10.

But I beseech you who make profession of Religion, by the mercies of God, be not conformed to such.

There are that,

Burn in lust one toward another, men with men, working that which is unseemly, Rom. 1. 27. abusing themselves with mankind, 1 Cor. 6. 9. These shall not inherit the Kingdom of God.

Wherefore I beseech you by the mercies of God, be not conformed to these.

There are that,

Cast their Eyes on beautiful objects, after the example of Iosephs Mistriss, Gen. 39. 7.

But I beseech you by the mercies of God be not conformed to such.

Feed not your Eyes with such objects.

p. 40Give not your eyes leave to look, for that may prove very dangerous. As 'tis said in another case, Remember Lots wise; So I say in this, Remember David, what his looking on a beautiful woman cost him, 2 Sam. 11. 2. with Psal. 51. And Sampson, …udg. 14. 1, 2. & 16. 1. what his looks cost him: Yea and our Grandmother Eve, what l…oking on the forbidden fruit cost her, Gen. 3. 6. Pray therefore as David, Psal. 119. 37. Turn away mine …yes from b…holding vanity. And do as Job, chap. 31. 1. Make a covenant with your eyes.

There are that,

Drink waters out of their own Cesterns, as they are allowed, Prov. 5. 15. but they Drink immoderately, and unseasonably out of their own, 1 Cor. 7. 5. and onelyonly to please themselves, not that they may be the fitter to serve God thereby.

But I beseech you by the mercies of God be not conformed to these.

There are that,

Eat and drink too much; too much for their Health, Estates, Reason, Work, p. 41and Imployment. For their Health, impairing that thereby, Prov. 23. 29. For their Estates, wasting them thereby, Prov. 23. 20, 21. For their Reason, weakning that thereby. For their Work and Imployment, hindering that thereby. These must look for woe and sorrow, Read Prov. 23. 29. to end, & 1 Cor. 6. 9.

Wherefore I beseech you that make profession, by the mercies of God, be not conformed to such.

There are that,

Frequent Stage-plaies.

There are that,

Gaze on wanton Pictures, which provokes to lust. See Ezek. 23. 14, to 18.

Hearken to wanton Songs and Ballats.

Idle out their time. This was Sodoms sin, Ezek. 16. 49. And Davids too, when Joab was besieging Rabba, 2 Sam. 11. 12. and an occasion of his uncleanness. Other evils of it see, Prov. 19. 15. Eccles. 10. 18.

Wherefore I beseech you be not conformed to these.

p. 42Keep company with suspected persons, contrary to the charge, Prov. 5. 8, 9, 10, 11. Remove thy way far from her, and come not near the door of her house.

But I beseech you that make profession be not conformed to these; but do as Joseph, Gen. 39. 10. who would not be with his Mistriss.

There are that,

Love Pleasures more then God, 2 Tim. 3. 4. such shall be poor, Prov. 21. 12.

Wherefore be not conformed to these.

But seeing some Pleasures and Recreations are lawful, wherein does the world offend in and about them?

Answer, They offend in and about them in respect of the Matter, Time, and End of them.

First, In respect of the Matter. The world makes that the matter of Sport and Recreation, which should be the matter of Devotion and Humiliation.

1. That which should be the matter of Devotion, as Scripture, Lots.

First, Scripture phraze and story. This is a taking of Gods name i… vain, which God will not suffer to go unpunished, p. 43Exod. 20. To have the Scripture is a rich mercy, Psal. 147. 19, 20. Rom. 3. 1, 2. & 9. 4.

Wherefore I beseech you by this mercy of God, be not conformed to the world in sporting your selves with Scripture.

Secondly, Lots. A lot is a Religious ordinance of God, because it is an ap…ealing to Divine providence, what ever the matter be about which 'tis conversant, Prov. 16. 33. And therefore that distinction of▪ Lots into Religious, Civil, and Indifferent, will not salve the business, as some Divines think; All lots being Religious as they are an appealing to Divine providence.

Quest. If the Question should be asked whither Card-playing, and Dice-playing be a sin?

Answ. I answer, That as Carding and Dicing are commonly used, it is sin; and I think I have good ground so to answer; for as 'tis commonly used, 'tis a swerving from Scripture rules. To Instance in some known Rules.

First, Whatsoever is not of faith is sin, Rom. 14. 23. Now will any say that Carding and Dicing as commonly used is done in faith, with assurance that it is pleasing to God in Christ.

p. 44Secondly, Whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him, Col. 3. 17. Now who can say that Carding and Dicing as commonly used is thus done.

Thirdly, Whether ye eat or drink, or whatsoever else ye do, do all to the glory of God, 1 Cor. 10. 31. Now do you think in your Consciences that Carding and Dicing, as commonly used, is done to the glory of God?

Fourthly, In every thing, by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God, Phil. 4. 6. Now is it thus used, and if not, is it according to the rule?

Fifthly, Give no offence to Jew or Gentile, or the Church of God, 1 Cor. 10. 32. Is no offence given by it?

Sixthly, Whatsoever is of Good report think of and do, Phil. 4. 8. Is Carding and Dicing of good report?

Seventhly, Abstain from all appearance of e…il, 1 Thes. 5. 22. Sure Carding and Dicing hath the appearance of evil.

Eighthly, Avoid all occasions of sin, Prov. 23. 21. & 4. 14, 15. & 58. Doubtless 'tis the occasion of much sin.

p. 45Ninthly, Thou shalt not covet any thing that is thy neighbours, Exod. 20. 17. Now as commonly used, sure there is covering in it.

Tenthly, Thou shalt not go beyond or defraud thy Brother in any matter, 1 Thes. 4. 6. As 'tis commonly used, 'tis a breach of this Rule also.

Secondly, That which should be the matter of Humiliation, the world makes matter of Sport and Recreation, viz. Sin, and the Judgments of God.

First, Sin: As,

1. Mens living without a calling, to make sport.

2. Mens wearing womens apparel.

3. Mens playing the fool and acting to make sport, as if they had no understanding. Thus to do is sin, and sin is matter of sorrow and humiliation; and to take pleasure in that which is matter of sorrow, must needs be sin.

Secondly, The Judgments of God: As,

1. Foolishness and madness, 1 Sam. 21. 14, 15.

2. The enmity between the creatures caused by mans sin. Now to take pleasure in these, is to take pleasure in those things which are matter of sorrow and humiliation.

p. 46Now I beseech you that are professors, by the mercies of God, be not you conformed to the world in these things.

Thus you see the world offends in and about Pleasures and Recreations, in respect of the Matter.

2. The world offends in and about them in respect of Time, too much being spent in and about them, viz. whole dayes and nights, contrary to Ephes. 5. 16.

3. In respect of the End, Gods glory not being aimed at, as it should be in every thing, 1 Cor. 10. 31.

There are that,

Mince as they go, Isa. 3. 16. so as to be taken notice of, and to take carnal affections: See Matth. 14. 6.

But I beseech you that profess Religion be not conformed to such.

Neigh after others Wives, Jer. 5. 8. & 13. 27. This is abomination, Ezek 22. 11. And such persons God will judge Heb. 13. 4.

Wherefore I beseech you be not conformed to such.

Open their feet to them that passeth by, Ezek p. 4716. 25. yea their Breasts, which is more tempting.

This King James called opening the shop windows, as if they had a mind to sell.

But be not conformed to such.

Pouder, Patch, and Paint; after the example of Jezabel, 2 King. 9. 30. and those Ier. 4. 30. Ezek. 23. 40. But God threatens …o send stench instead of sweet smell, Isa. 3. 24.

Therefore be not conformed to such.

Practice or are present at Dancings, condemned, Iob 21. 11, 12. Isa. 3. 16. Matth. 14. 6.

Be not conformed to such.

There are that,

Quit all shame and modesty, like those, Ier. 3. 3.

But I beseech you Professors, by the mercies of God, be not conformed to them.

Read ill Books, Play-books, &c. words and, matters which corrupt good manners, 1 Cor. 15. 33. and is not convenient, Eph. 5. 4.

See the Rule… Ephes. 4. 29. And be not conformed … …h.

p. 48Seek mixt Wine, Prov. 23. 30.

Tarry long at the Wine, Prov. 23. 30. But I beseech you be not conformed to these.

Use their Christian liberty for occasion to the flesh, Gal. 4. 13. That take occasion from the doctrine of Christian liberty, to become licentious; using their liberty as a cloak of naughtiness, 1 Pet. 2. 16.

But be not conformed to such.

Wander or walk too much in Fields or Streets, after the example of Dina, Gen. 34. 2. and the strange woman, Prov. 7. 12.

But I beseech you Professors, by the mercies of God, be not conformed to such.

Let such as have temptations to Incontinence, or unclean practices, consider these Scriptures.

Prov. 2. 18, 19. & 5. 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, to 14. & 6. 26, 32, 33. & 7. 21. to the end. & 22. 14. & 23. 27. & 29. 3. Eccles. 7. 26. 1 Cor. 5. 9. & 6. 9, 10. Rev. 21. 8. & 22. 15.

p. 49No whoremonger, nor unclean person hath any inheritance in the Kingdom of Christ and of God, Ephes. 5. 5.

Wherefore let no man deceive you with vain words; for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the …ldren of disobedience, Ephes. 5. 6.

Diswasives from sensual pleasures.

1. They war against the soul, 1 Pet. 2. 11.

2. They hinder the knowledge of the truth, 2 Tim. 3. 6, 7.

3. They eat out all pleasure in and love of God, 2 Tim. 3. 4.

4. They choke the seed of the word, Luke 8. 14.

5. They keep from coming to the great Supper, Luke 14. 20.

6. They take away the heart from all that is good, Hos. 4. 11.

7. They are but for a season, Heb. 11. 25.

8. They end in sorrow, Prov. 21. 17. & 14. 3.

Adams pleasurable eating forbidden fruit, ended in ejection out of Paradice.

p. 50Esau's broth, ended in the loss of his birthright.

Jonathans honey, in the hazard of his life.

Judas his sop, in the Devils entring into him.

Babilons golden cup, in her downfall.

9. They are madness and folly, Eccles. 1. 17. & 2. 2.

10. The love of them speaks the power of godliness wanting, 2 Tim. 3. 5.

Wherefore I again beseech you, be not conformed to this world in the loving of sensual pleasures.

I wish you such a sight as Moses had of the heavenly recompence, and then I am sure you would love them no more then he did, Heb. 11. 25, 26.

Secondly, Conform not to the Covetous world.

You read of Covetous practices, 2 Pet. 21. 14.

I beseech you, by the mercies of God, be not conformed to the world in them.

This Dehortation to you that make profession of Religion, is not without need; For,

p. 511. Professors have been deeply guilty of covetousness; as Ezekiels hearers, Ezek. 33. 31, 32. The Scribes and Pharisees who fasted oft, prayed long, and gave much almes, Matth. 23. 14: Judas.

2. Christ warns his own Disciples against it, Luke 12. 15. & 21. 34.

3. Saint John writes to those that were Fathers in Christs School, to take heed of it, 1 Joh. 2. 15.

And have you not need to be dehorted from it? Sure you have.

I shall therefore in a beseeching way apply my self unto you.

There are some that,

1. Abound in wealth, have abundance of all good things, and want nothing, and yet have not power to eat thereof, Eccles. 6. 1, 2. But are cruel to themselves, denying themselves meat, drink, apparel, rest and sleep; and cruel to their families, denying them things convenient.

These sure are a part of the covetous world; And I beseech you by the mercies of God, be not conformed to them.

p. 522. Build by unrighteousness and wrong, Jer. 22. 13. wherein see the latter part of the vers. and Jam. 5. 4.

But I beseech you, &c. be not conformed to these.

3. Cumber themselves about the many things of the world, so that they cannot spare time for the service of God in the closet or family, Luke 10. 41.

These also are part of this covetous world; And I beseech you by the mercies of God be not conformed to them.

4. Devise covetous things and practices, Isa. 32. 7. 2 Pet. 2. 14.

But I beseech, &c. be not conformed to these.

5. Deal falsely, Jer. 8. 10. using false words, lying to get gain, which is, &c. Prov. 12. 22.

And false weights, which are abomination to the Lord, Prov. 11. 1. & 20. 23.

And false oathes which God hates, Zech. 8. 17.

And false accusation, a way of getting which some take.

p. 53'Tis like Zacheus was guilty of it, for saith he, Luke 19. 8. If, &c.

6. Whose Eyes and Heart are not but for their covetousness, and for oppression and violence to do it, watching opportunities; as when men are in distress and necessity, they work upon mens necessities, to get what bargains they please, Jer. 22. 17.

But I beseech you, &c. be not conformed to those.

7. Forget to do good, and communicate; though charged not to forget it, Heb. 13. 16. or if they do any thing this way, 'tis sparingly, grudgingly; contrary to the charge, 2 Cor. 9, 6, 7. Too like him, 1 Sam. 25. 10, 11, 36. Forsake the poor, Job 20. 19.

But I beseech you, &c. be not conformed to these.

Do any forget to sow their Land, at Seed time?

8. Some are Given to covetousness, Jer. 6. 13. Greedy of gain, Prov. 1. 19. 1 Tim. 3. 3. Are immoderate in their desires after riches, thirsting like the horsleech; p. 54Ever crying give, give, Prov. 30. 15.

And in their Joy and Grief also.

In their Joy, in the enjoying of them, as He, Luke 12. 19.

In their Grief, in parting with them, as that young man, Matth. 19. 21, 22.

But I beseech you, &c. be not conformed to these.

9. Hard men, reaping where they have not sown, and gathering where they have not strawed; Matth. 25. 24.

But I beseech you, &c. be not conformable to these.

10. Joyn house to house, Isa. 5. 8.

11. Keep bad company to get gain, Prov. 1. 14, 15, 16. contrary to the counsel of the Holy Ghost: here and Prov. 4. 14, 15.

Some plead they shall have no Trade unless they do so.

But I beseech you, &c. be not conformable to these.

12. Lade themselves with thick clay or mire, burden, pollute, and entangle themselves, p. 55in taking, raking, and ransaking for riches, Habak. 2. 6. Some lade their Carts so much, that they either stick, or break all.

But I beseech you, &c. be not you conformed.

13. Make Gold their hope, Job 31. 24. Their strong City, Prov. 10. 15. Trusting in their abundance, Psalm 52. 7. Contrary to the charge, 1 Tim. 6. 17. and to their ruine, Prov. 11. 28.

Therefore I beseech you, &c.

14. Mind earthly things, Phil. 3. 19. Heavenly things are not in all their thoughts.

But I beseech you, &c. be not conformable, &c.

15. Never are satisfied. Though he have neither Child nor Brother, &c. Yet there is no end of his labour, nor is his eye satisfied with riches, Eccles. 4. 8.

But I beseech you, &c. be not conformed, &c.

16. Over reach, go beyond, and defraud one another in dealing and barganing; this is prohibited, 1 Thes. 4. 6.

p. 56Therefore I beseech you, &c. be not conformed to these.

17. Plead Poverty, deb. s and family expences, when any thing is desired or required for a pious, charitable or righteous use, though there be enough for pleasure and pride.

But I, &c. be not conformable, &c.

18. Are Querulous, complainers, Jud. 16. never content with their condition, with what they have; contrary to the charge given us, Heb. 13. 5.

But I beseech you, &c. be not conformable, &c.

19. Run greedily after the error of Baalam, for reward, Jud. 11. Adulterating or corrupting the doctrine of Truth for filthy lucre; unlike to Paul, 2 Cor. 2. 17.

But I, &c. be not conformable, &c.

20. Speak mostly of the world, 1 Joh. 4. 5. And of the earth, Joh. 3. 31. whose language is, who will shew us any good, Psal. 4. 6. Who will shew us how we may get goods and riches?

p. 57But I beseech, &c. be not conformable, &c.

21. Serve Mammon, Matth. 6. 24.

But I, &c. be not, &c.

22. Study gain more then godliness, being godly only for the sake of gain, 1 Tim. 6. 5.

But I, &c. be not, &c.

23. Turn aside after lucre, 1 Sam. 8. 3. Contrary to the charge, Deut. 16. 19. Take away the right from the poor, Isa. 10. 1, 2.

But I beseech, &c. be not you, &c.

24. Venture the salvation of their Souls for this present world, as Demas did, 2 Tim. 4. 10.

But I, &c. be not, &c.

25. Wish the Sabbath over, that they may be getting something of the world, Amos 8. 4, 5, 6.

But I, &c. be not, &c.

26. Will be rich, 1 Tim. 6. 9, 10. though they fall into, &c.

But I, &c. be not, &c.

p. 58Diswasives from conformity to this Covetous world.

1. They that do, and are covetous like the world, are hated, abhorred of God, Psal. 10. 3.

2. Sorely threatned, Isa. 5. 8. Isa. 10. 1. 2. Job 20. 15, 19, 20. & 27. 16, 17, 18.

3. The word will do you no good whiles such, Matth. 13. 22. Ezek. 33. 31. Mark. 4 18, 19.

4. You are in Gods account Idolater, Col. 3. 5. Eph. 5. 5.

5. You will be troublers of your house, Prov. 15. 27.

6. No sin will be strained at, if you give way to be covetous, for covetousness is the root of all evil, 1 Tim. 6. 10. Thou maist be a Judas, Matth. 26. 15. A… Ananias, Act. 5. 2.

7. Thy heart is in danger to be hardned; covetous men seldom repent, Jer. 2. 31. 1 Thes. 2. 5.

8. Saints must have no fellowship with you, 1 Cor. 5. 11.

9. You must not go to heaven, 1 Cor. 6. 10.

p. 59Thirdly, Conform not to this Proud world.

Corrupt and sinful man is a proud Creature, Proud all over.

Proud,

First, In speech, Psal. 12. 4. Speaking proudly.

1. Against God, Daen. 7. 25. Rev. 13. 6. and with Pharaoh saying, who is the Lord?

2. Against his People, Psal. 31. 18. Speaking grievous things proudly against them.

Secondly, In heart, Psal. 101. 5. Isa. 9. 9. Prov. 21. 4. stout, stiff, unyielding.

These are abomination to the Lord, Prov. 16. 5.

Thirdly, In spirit, high minded, Eccl. 7. 8.

Fourthly, In look, Prov. 16. 17. & 21. 4.

Fifthly, In gesture, Isa. 3. 16.

Sixthly, In deed, Psal. 31. 23. Exod. 18. 11.

Be not conformed to the world herein.

This Dehortation is not without need to you Professors.

p. 60The Best have been and are prone to it

1. Josephs Brethren, Gen. 37. 8.

2. Aaron and Miriam, Num. 12. 1, 2

3. David, 2 Sam. 24. 1 2, 4.

4. Uzzia, 2 Chron. 26. 16, 19.

5. Hezekiab, 2 Chron. 32. 25.

6. The Apostles of Christ, Mark 9. 34.

There are that,

Affect high places, uppermost rooms in th… Synagogues, Matth. 23. 6.

Christs own Disciples were contending about this, Matth. 18. 1. & 20. 21, 22. Luke 22. 24, 25, 26. Contrary to the charge, Gal. 5. 26.

But I beseech you that Profess religion, by the mercies of God, be not conformed to these.

Bo…st themselves, Isa. 37. 12, 13. & 10. 8, to 12. Psal. 10. 3. Amos 6. 13. Dan. 4. 30. Luke 12. 18; 19. Contrary to Prov. 27. 1, 2.

Some Boast of their Will, the Arminian… ▪

Some of their Reason, the Socinians.

Some of their Revelations, the Anabaptists.

p. 61Some of Perfection and Sufferings, the Quakers.

Some of Traditions and Miracles, the Papists.

Some of Gifts and Priviledges, Rom. 2. 17, &c. Joh. 8. 33, 41.

But I beseech you, &c.

Build with hewen stone, when, &c. Isa. 9. 9, 10.

q. d. That are so far from Repenting when corrected, that they harden their hearts more and more; So Mal. 1. 4.

But I beseech you, &c.

Covet to be seen of men in what they do, Matth. 23. 5. Contrary to Matth. 6. 1, 2, 3; 5.

But I beseech you, &c.

Displeased with the Praise of others, Matth. 21. 15. Despise others, Luke 18. 9.

But I beseech you, &c.

Establish their own Righteousness, Rom. 10. 3. Luke 18. 9.

But I beseech you, &c.

Fortifie themselves in the Rocks, &c. Obad. 3. 4. Flatter themselves with outward advantages and accommodations.

p. 62But I beseech you, &c.

Give not God the glory, but themselves, Act. 12. 23. but consider his end. And your duty Is…l. 115. 1.

Wherefore I beseech you, &c.

Haughty scorners who deal in proud wrath, Prov. 21. 24. Casting aside admonitions, with disdain and contempt.

But I beseech you, &c.

Hearts listed up because of their Riches, &c. 2 Chron. 32. 25, 27. Contrary to the caution, Deut. 8. 13. The uprightness of such hearts may be questioned, Habak. 2. 4.

Wherefore I beseech you, &c.

Intrude into things they have not seen, Col. 2. 18. Either,

1. In the Scriptures.

2. With their bodily Eyes.

3. By the Light of sound Reason. Yet venture upon it, as they upon the worshipping of Angels.

But I beseech you, &c.

Korahs that set themselves against Gods messengers, Numb. 16. 3.

But I, &c.

p. 63Lean to their own understandings. Contrary to the Rule, Prov. 3. 5, 7. Paul would have such to become fools that they might be wise, 1 Cor. 3. 18.

Wherefore I beseech you, &c.

Lovers of praise and applause, Mat. 23. 7.

Lovers of preheminence, 3 Ep. Joh. 9.

Lofty high lookers, Prov. 30. 13. Such was not David, Psal. 131. 1. nor would he suffer such, Psal. 101. 5.

But I beseech you, &c.

Magnifie themselves, Luke 18. 11, 12. Contrary to Phil. 2. 3.

But I beseech you, &c.

Never think to be moved, like her, viz. Babilon, Isa. 47. 7. Good men too prone to this; as David, Psal. 30. 6. and Job, chap. 29. 18, 19.

Wherefore I beseech you, &c.

Offended with those that are not at their beck and command, Num. 22 37.

But I beseech you, &c.

Offer violence to the Lords Prophets, 2 King. 1. 9, 11.

But I beseech you, &c.

p. 64Persecute the poor, Psal. 10. 2. Hiding snares for them, Psal. 140. 5.

Puft up by their fleshly mind; 1. Unsanctified mind: 2. Gifts of the mind, as Wit, Knowledge, Eloquence, Memory, Col. 2. 18.

Pure in their own eyes, Prov. 30. 11. Isa. 65. 5.

But I beseech you, &c.

Quarrel and contend, ever stirring up strife, Prov. 28. 25.

But I beseech you, &c.

Reject the Lord as Pharaoh, Exod. 5. 2. and those, Luke 19. 14.

Rise up against his people, Psal. 124. 2, 5.

But I beseech you, &c.

Seek and search their own glory; contrary to Prov. 25. 27.

Shew their fine things, 2 King. 20. 13.

Smite the Lords Prophets, 2 Chron. 18. 23.

That Scorn and contemn, Psal. 123. 4.

But I beseech you, &c.

Think of themselves more highly then they p. 65ought. Think themselves to be something when they are nothing, Gal. 6. 3. Contrary to Rom. 12. 3.

Trust in their Treasures, Jer. 49. 4.

But I beseech you, &c.

Usurp the Priests office; as 2 Chron. 26. 16.

But I beseech you, &c.

Walk with stretched out necks, Isa. 3. 16.

Will not seek after God, Psal. 10. 4.

But I beseech you, &c.

Hear and give ear, and be not proud; for the Lord hath spoken, Jer. 13. 15. what, see v. 9, &c. Therefore give glory to God. 1. Acknowledge his judgments and threats to be Righteous, and heartily turn to God; otherwise God will mar your pride.

Disswasives from Pride.

First, Its not alone, it has very bad companions: As,

1. Naughtiness of heart, 1 Sam. 17. 28.

2. A froward mouth; Prov. 8. 13.

3. Idleness, Ezek. 16. 49.

4. Unmercifulness, Ezek. 16. 49.

5. Contention, Prov. 13. 10.

p. 666. Hardned mind, Dan. 5. 20.

7. An evil eye, Mark 7. 22.

8. Blasphemy, Mark 7. 22.

More, see Prov. 6. 17, &c.

Secondly, God knows them afar off, has no respect for them, will have no communion with them, Psal. 138. 6.

Thirdly, God hates and abominates pride, Prov. 6. 16, 17. & 16. 5.

Fourthly, The proud err from Gods commandments, and are cursed, Psal. 119. 21.

Fifthly, God resisteth them, Jam. 4. 6. 1 Pet. 5. 5.

Gods resistance supposes mans assault, and did ever any harden themselves against God and prosper? Job 9. 4.

What, will you strive with your Maker? Wo to such, Isa. 45. 9.

Sirs, Sirs, see Ezek. 22. 14.

God will do to them that which he asks Job whither he could do, Job 40. 11, 12.

God is able to abase them, Dan. 4. 37.

And will be above them, Exod. 18. 17.

And bring them down, Psal. 18. 27.

And low, Prov. 29. 23.

To destruction, Prov. 16. 18. & 15. 25.

See also, Isa. 2. 11, to 18.

Beloved, would I could fright you from this cursed pride!

p. 67What shall I say to you?

It turned,

Angels into Devils.

Sodom into Ashes.

Pharaoh into the Deep.

Haman off the Gallows.

Nebuchadnezar a grazing with Beasts.

Achitophel out of the World.

Because Pride of Hair and Habit abounds, I shall close this Discourse with some Disswasives from it.

1. Are not our cloathes Memorials of our sin and shame?

Before our first Parents had sinned, they were both naked and were not ashamed, Gen. 2. 25. But when they had sinned, they were ashamed, and sewed fig-leaves together to cover their nakedness, Gen. 3. 7. But God made them coats of skins, ver. 21.

2. Are they not all Borrowed things? and that from poor despicable Creatures, your servants? As,

Woollen from the Sheep.

Linnen from the Earth.

Cotten from the Trees.

Silks and Velvets from the Worms.

Hats from Beavers and other poor Creatures.

Hair from I know not whom.

p. 68Now suppose a man to have many Servants, and he borrows a Hat of one, a Coat or Cloak of another, and Shoes and Stockins of another, &c. and then goes strutting up and down the Streets in these borrowed things, what would you think of him?

3. Are not your Cloaths, for the materials of them, much baser then yourselves? And will you be proud of what is inferior to your selves?

4. What are your Bodies which you thus dress up and adorn? Are they not vile, loathsom, stinking, foul, diseased bodies, which must dye and turn to corruption?

5. Do Cloaths commend you to God, or to wise and sober men? Nay, onelyonly to men of vain minds they commend you.

6. Does not dressing, decking and adorning of our selves in such a way as is usual, discover the vanity of our own minds?

7. Are not such dressings, &c. Temptations, snares, enticements and occasions of sin to others?

8. Is not much of our Cloathing waste and lost, and so a slighting of Christs counsel, Joh. 6. 12. If the Disciples of p. 69Christ had indignation at the pouring of Ointment on the Head of Christ; and if they said, To what purpose is this waste? Matth. 26. 8. How much more may Christ say, when he looks on the Heads, Necks, and Backs, and Feet of many Professors; To what purpose is this waste? Might not the money given for these things have been saved and given to the poor? Matth. 26. 9.

9. Do not many poor want that which you put on for Pride?

10. What will you do in the day when God shall come to deal with you, and reckon with you about your layings out upon your Pride? and Conscience shall witness against you: So much laid out upon my proud lust.

For strange and needless apparrel twenty pound, but for naked poor not twenty shillings.

For costly new fashioned lace, as one says, ten pound, but for food for the hungry not ten shillings.

For dressings and trimmings three, four, or five pounds, but for sick poor not five shillings.

For toyes and fancies twenty shillings, p. 70but for the relief of the needy not twenty pence.

For hair I know not what, but for a pious or charitable use not any thing considerable.

To take you off from Conformity to this world, give me leave to expostulate with you. I shall do it for memory sake Alphabetically: Alluding to Gods expostulating with them, Isa. 58. 5, 6.

Is this, This conformity to the world,

Is this,

To Abstain from fleshly lusts, which, &c. Or is this your abstaining, &c. as you are earnestly beseeched, 1 Pet. 2. 11, 12.

To Abstain from all appearance of evil; as we are charged, 1 Thes. 5. 22.

Or is this your abstaining from, &c.

And so your abstaining, &c. in all the following expostulations.

1. To Bring the body in subjection, as Pauls practice was, 1 Cor. 9. 27.

2. To bring forth fruits meet for repentance, as we must if we will escape the wrath p. 71to come, Matth. 3. 7, 8. And those from 2 Cor. 7. 11. Is this to have indignation against our selves, to be zealous, to take revenge upon our selves? what work would indignation, zeal, and revenge, make upon your Heads, Faces, Necks, and Backs, if you had these.

3. To be blameless as the Sons of God without rebuke, &c. Phil. 2. 15.

2. To Crucifie the flesh with the affections and lusts, as they that are Christs have, Gal. 5. 24.

3. Is this to Condemn the world, as Noah did, Heb. 11. 7. Nay is it not to commend the world, and say you do well to be Proud, Covetous, Wanton, &c.

Is this to be converted, and become as little Children? What to strive for state, to seek for preheminence over one another; to be greatest, highest, bravest, finest? A little Child does not so. Even the Disciples of Christ were too worldly, minding worldly greatness and preheminence; which moved them to put the question, Matth. 18. 1. Who is to be greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven?

1. The Church; they dreamed of a worldly pompous state of it; for Mar. p. 729. 34. they had disputed among themselves which should be greatest. See Act. 1. 6. Matth. 20. 21, 24. And Christs answer, ver. 25, to 29. Now is this Conformity to the world, to be turned from Pride, &c. Without which, Christ says, we shall not enter into the Kingdom of Heaven, Matth. 18. 1, 2, 3, 4.

4. Is this to be consumed with zeal, because Gods words are forgotten, Psal. 119. 139.

Is this to deny our selves; as they who will be Christs Disciples must do, Matth 16. 24.

Is this to Enter in at the straight gate, and to strive so to do as we are counselled by Christ, Luke 13. 24.

To be Examples as we are bound to be, specially Ministers, 1 Tim. 6. 11. & 4. 12. 1 Pet. 5. 3.

To Escape the corruption that i… i… the world through lust, 2 Pet. 1. 4.

Is this to Follow Christ our pattern, w… hath left us an example that we should f… low his steps, 1 Pet. 2. 21. See Matt… 16. 24. 1 Joh. 2. 6.

p. 73Is this to learn of Christ? Matth. 11. 29.

Is this to be as God is in this world? 1 Joh. 4. 17.

To Glorifie God with our bodies? as we are bound by the price paid for us, 1 Cor. 6. 20.

Is this to Humble our selves under Gods mighty hand? as we are directed by God himself in order to our exaltation, 1 Pet. 5. 6.

Is this to Judge our selves? as we must if we will not be judged and condemned with the world, 1 Cor. 11. 31, 32.

Is this to Keep our selves from our iniquity? as we must do if we will approve our selves upright, Psal. 18. 23.

Is this to Lay to heart the afflictions of Joseph? who many of them are cloathed with rags: See Amos 6. 4, 5, 6.

Is this to Mourn for the sins of the time, as those that are marked out for deliverance in a common calamity, do? See Ezek. 9. 4.

p. 74Is this, Not to lift up our souls to vanity? as they that will ascend into Gods holy hill, and stand in his holy place, must not: Psal. 24. 3, 4.

Is this to Note those that obey not the Gospel, and to have no company with them, that they may be ashamed? 2 Thes. 3. 14. Nay is it not to harden them in their sinful wayes and fashions?

Is this to Order our steps in Gods word, as David prayed he might? Psal. 119. 133. And so to Order our conversations aright as they must do who will see the salvation of God, Psal. 50. 23.

Is this to Put off the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts? Eph. 4. 22.

And to Put on the new man, which after God, is created in Righteousness and true holiness? Eph. 4. 24.

Is this to Put off your ornaments from you, that God may know what to do unto you? Exod. 33. 5.

Is this to Present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God; as you are by the mercies of God beseeched to do? Rom. 12. 1.

p. 75Is this your Quenching the fiery darts of Satan? Eph. 6.

Now Sirs, as St. Paul tells the Corinthians, concerning their manner of communicating, This is not to eat the Lords Supper, 1 Cor. 11. 20.

So let me tell you concerning your conformity to this world,

This is not to Abstain from, &c.

This is not to Bring your Bodies in subjection.

This is not to be Converted.

This, &c. in all the rest of the Letters.

And as he says, vers. 22, 23. What shall I say to you? shall I praise you in this? I praise you not. For I have received of the Lord that which I have delivered unto you.

That you who are called out of this world, which is the Devils Chappel, into the Church, which is the house of the living God; should not be conformed to this world.

But should Abstain from, &c.

Bring your Bodies into subjection, &c.

Is this your reproving your unfruitful works of darkness? as you are required, Ephes. 5. 11. Levit. 19. 17.

p. 76Redeeming of time, to spend so many hours in making provision for the flesh?

Time is to be Redeemed, not trifled away, Eph. 5. 16.

Is this your Striving against sin, as your duty is to do? Heb. 12. 4.

Your Shining as lights, &c. Phil. 2. 15.

To be Transformed by the renewing of your minds? Rom. 12. 2. No, for tis set in opposition to being conformed to this world.

Is this your Using the world as not abusing it? 1 Cor. 7. 31.

Is this your Walking worthy of your high, holy, and Heavenly calling? as you are required, Eph. 4. 1.

Winning others by your conversation? 1 Pet. 3. 1, 2, 4, 5.

Working out your salvation with fear and trembling? Phil. 2. 12.

Being without offence? &c. Phil. 1. 10.

Nay, Is not this your conformity to the world; Is not this,

1. To justifie the worl…? Ezek. 16. 51, 52.

p. 772. Is not this to be a comfort to the wicked world? Ezek. 16. 54.

3. Is this not to harden them in their sinful course? Their pride, &c.

4. Is not this to have fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness? forbidden, E…hes. 5. 11.

5. Is not this to take the members of Christ, and to make them the members of a harlot? 1 Cor. 6. 16.

6. Is not this to learn the works of the Heathen, and to serve their Idols, Psal. 106. 35, 36. which may prove a snare.

7. Is not this to give offence, contrary to 1 Cor. 10. 32. And to be an occasion of stumbling, which Gods people should not be, 1 Joh. 2. 10.

8. Is not this to call men on Earth, our Father, Master? See Matth. 23. 9.

Helps against conformity to this world.

First, Understand well wherein you are not to conform to this world.

Sure not in any thing which is a swerving from the Rule, the written word of God.

p. 78Not in any thing which is a transgression of a known Law.

Take some instances of known Rules.

1. Abstain from all appearances of evil, 1 Thes. 5. 22. This is one Rule.

Now in any thing that is or has the appearance of evil, we must not conform to the world.

2. Avoid all occasions of evil of sin, to our selves or others. All Snares, Traps and Temptati…s to our selves or others to sin; Prov. 23. 31 & 4. 14, 15. & 5. 8.

Now in any thing which is an occasion of sin to our selves or others, we must not conform to the world.

3. Give no offence, &c. 1 Cor. 10. 32. Phil. 1. 10. 1 Joh. 2. 10.

4. Those things think upon and do which are of good report, Phil. 4. 8. and this you must have a care of lest you fall into reproach, and the snare of the Devil; 1 Tim. 3 7.

Now those things which are not of good report, we must not conform to the world in.

5. Do all in the name of Christ, Col. 4. 17. giving thanks, &c.

Now if the world do any thing which cannot be said to be done in the name of p. 79Christ, therein you are not to conform to the world.

6. Follow others as they follow Christ, 1 Cor. 11. 1.

Now in those things wherein the world does not follow Christ, we are not to conform to them.

5. Whatsoever you would that men should do to you, do you the same to them, Matth. 7. 12.

Now if the world do those things to others which they would not have done to themselves, therein we must not conform to them.

8. Let all things be done for edifying, 1 Cor. 14. 26. In Knowledge, Faith, Love, and holy Obedience.

Now if the world do any thing that tends to building up of others in Unholiness, and Disobedience, Pride and Wantonness; we must not conform to the world therein, for all must be done to edifying.

9. Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory, Phil. 2. 3.

Now if the world do, &c.

10. Look not every man on his own, but on the things of others, Phil. 2. 4.

p. 80Now if the world be all for it self, with the neglect of others, we must not therein conform to the world.

11. Redeem the time because the days are evil, Eph. 5. 16.

Now if the world trifle away time, on Lords dayes and other dayes, we must not therein conform to the world.

12. Whether ye eat or drink, or whatsoever else ye do, do all to the glory of God, 1 Cor. 10. 31.

Now if the world do that which can have no tendency to the glory of God, we must not conform to the world therein.

Secondly, Be convinced that 'tis a sin to be conformed to this world in such matters before mentioned; Gods prohibition makes it a sin, Rom. 12. 2.

When a man is sure a thing is sinful, he will resist it the more easily; but if he be in doubt whether it be sin or no, he will the more easily venture upon it, to commit it.

The Devils business is to make men believe that sin is not sin, that they may commit it.

For this end he raiseth up one Prophet or another, to say as to Ahab, Go up and prosper; or to say, There is no hurt in this; p. 81or to dispute for it, or practice it himself, and then the Devil has gotten ground.

For when a thing is come to be a Controversie, and some that are Wise and Learned, Holy and Religious, are on one side, and some of another; Then the Hypocrite, as one sayes, hath a cloak for his sin, and a Dose of Opium for his Conscience.

Thirdly, Get the fear of the Lord, this will restrain from sin, Neh. 5. 15.

Fourthly, Make a covenant with your eyes, Gaze not on the fashions of others; See Ezek. 23. 16.

Fifthly, Set upon the work of mortification, look upon it as a duty of absolute necessity, Col. 3. 5. Rom. 8. 13.

Sixthly, Get to be crucified to the world; and for this end make use of the Cross of Christ, Gal. 6. 14.

Seventhly, Have your conversations in Heaven, and your affections on things above, Phil. 3. Col. 3. Mind things not seen.

Eighthly, Set God alwayes before you, Psal. 16 8. Gen. 17. 1.

Ninthly, Think much of death and judgment, and what thoughts you will then have of conformity to this world.

p. 82And now in Conclusion let me again beseech you, Be not conformed to this world.

I beseech you by the mercies of God, be not conformed to, &c.

And by me God himself beseeches you, 2 Cor. 5. 20.

Now suppose a Mother should beseech her Child,

By the Womb that bare him.

By the Paps that gave him suck.

By the Knees that dandled him.

And by all her care of and kindness to him: what would you think of him, if he should not in a lawful thing yield unto her? would you not think him to be of a flinty heart?

In like manner when God by his Ministers shall beseech you by the multitude of his tender mercies; whereby,

1. He begat you to a lively hope of an Inheritance incorruptible, &c. 1 Pet. 1. 3, 4.

2. He hath quickned us together with Christ, and raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus, Eph. 2. 4, 5, 6.

3. He hath pardoned us, Psal. 78. 38.

4. He hath called us, 2 Tim. 1. 9.

5. Justified us, Rom. 3.

p. 836. Adopted us, 1 Joh. 3.

7. He hath renewed and saved us, Tit. 3. 5.

What stony hearts have they that will not yield when God thus beseeches by his mercies bestowed on them?

Hear me you Professors, let me expostulate.

1. Why Sirs shall God loose and miss of the main end of bestowing his mercies on you?

Our obedience is the main end of his bestowing mercies on us. See Psal. 130. 4. Luke 1. 73, 74. Psalm 105. 39. to end.

2. Is it not to you that God applies himself in this beseeching way, even to you who have received mercy to be begotten again, quickned, pardoned, called, renewed and saved?

Tis to you he comes and beseeches by all his mercies, be not conformed to this world.

Others that have not received these mercies, he cannot beseech by them.

3. Had others received the mercies you have, and being beseeched by them, would they not, think you, be perswaded?

p. 844. Will you hazard and endanger your selves by conforming to, and keeping company with the men of this world?

Jehosaphat did so, 1 Chron. 19. 1, 2. and wrath was upon him therefore.

Josiah did so, 2 King. 23. 29. His forwardness to pleasure the King of Assiria cost him his life.

The Israelites conformed to Egypt in Idolatry, Exod. 32. 1, 2, 3. And Gods wrath waxes hot against them, v. 10.

And to the Moabites in Adultery, Numb. 25. 1, 2. and the anger of the Lord was kindled against them.

If you live after the manner of wicked men, you are like to be judged after their manner, Ezek. 23. 4, 5.

If the Assirian or others will persecute after the manner of Egypt, they shall be punished after the manner of Egypt, Isa. 10. 24, 26.

5. Doth not God find fault with doing after the manner of others? See 2 King. 17. 33. 2 Chron. 13. 9.

6. Is not that which is highly esteemed among men, abominable in the sight of God? Luke 16. 15.

p. 85That course of life which is most contrary to the fashions of the world, is most commendable and acceptable to God.

The further we go from the world in our speech, gesture, attire, works, and actions, the nearer we come to true Godliness, Jam. 1. 27.