The Life and Death of Thomas Wilson, Biography – Letter

The Life and Death of Thomas Wilson · Biography – Letter

p. 1THE LIFE and DEATH OF Mr. THO. WILSON, Minister at Maidonestone, in the County of Kent.

CHAP. I. His Birth, Education at School, and Vniversity.

THomas Wilson was born at Catterlon, in the County of Cumberland in the year 1601. His Parents were sober and honest, and of a competent Estate, being of the best sort of Yeomen in those parts. As soon as his Age would p. 2permit, he was sent to School at Blentow i… the saith County, where under Mr. Wilkinson his School-master, he profited beyond, expectation; and far excelled all his fellows. He was observed in his youth to have a sharp wit, large memory, and to be very much given to his Book; whereby his friends had hopes that he would in time (as indeed he did) prove a great instrument of good.

His great proficiency at School, encouraged his Parents to send him to the University before he was seventeen years of Age, where (viz. at Christs Colledge in Cambridge) he spent not his time as too many do, male, alind, or nibil agendo, but devoted himself wholly to his Studies, in so much that he was taken notice of by the Master and Fellows, for his diligence and industry: It might have been written over his Study-door, Nulla diel sine linea. And though he did imploy his time most there, about Academical Learning, (his acuteness in which did appear above 20 years, after he had left Cambridge,) yet he did not neglect Divinity, but in order to his design of serving God in the Ministry, (if he saw fit) read both Positive and Polemical Authors: But of all Books none was so dear to him, or read so much by him, as the Holy Scriptures, for as the great Apostle saith of Timothy, I may say of him, From a Child he p. 3knew the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make wise to Salvation. Before he was Batchelor of Arts he had read (as he told me) Tremel. and Iun. on the whole Bible, three times over.

CHAP. II. His removal from the Vniversity, with the occasion.

SOmetime after he had Commenced Batchelor of Arts, he was removed from the University by this Providence. Mr. Iohn Bristow a Reverend Minister of Chawswood in Surry, desired Mr. Mead (that eminent person for Piety and Learning) his Tutor, to send him an able Religious Scholar, to teach School in his House. Mr. Mead presently pitcht his thoughts upon his Puple Mr. Wilson, not knowing how to pleasure Mr. Bristow better, and glad he could answer his request so well.

At Mr. Bristows he continued four years or there about, instructing the Lads committed to his charge, with great diligence and faithfulness, being far from the temper of Protagoras, who boasted (as Plato reports) that having lived sixty four years, he had spent fourty of them in corrupting and debauching young persons, No, he made conscience of p. 4his time, and his trust, and gave his Scholar more cause to bless God for their education under him, then Socrates did Plato for his bringing up under such a Master. He hath sometimes told me, that he knew no Calling, except the Ministry, wherein a man might be so serviceable to God as in teaching youth. And is clear that oftentimes Lads are made men at School; If there they suck in ill principles, it will be hard to remove them, if good, they continue with them, Quo semel… est in buta, &c. It is noted by some as one cause of Iulians profaneness, that he was bred under two Heathenish Tutors Libanius and Iamblicus. Because he saw the Christians so easily to confute the Idolatrous Gentiles, by reason of their good Education, he made a Law, That no Christian should train up his sons with humane Learning. But it was the happiness of Chawswood, that their Children were educated by one who had both a dexterity and fidelity, to teach them Humane and Divine Learning. But Mr. Bristow observing Mr. Wilsons fitness and ability for a greater work then instructing Children; and how his heart was set upon the work of the Ministry, (to prepare himself for which he made use of all his vacant hours from the School) did not judge it convenient to deprive the Church any longer of so worthy a Labourer, and therefore p. 5though it were a considerable loss to himself and his Parish, to so go so good a man; yet he preferr'd the publick advantage of the Church before his own, and wisht Mr. Wilson take himself wholly to Preach.

CHAP. III. His first Living in Surry.

THe first Candlestick in which this light was set, was Capel in Surry, where he continued some time, directing others by his holy pattern and judicious diligent Preaching, the way to eternal Life. Though the Parish gave him little or nothing for his pains, yet he was never the less faithful and labourious, for the welfare of their souls, for he sought not theirs but them, not their temporal good, but their spiritual good. Here he had the love and esteem of all Godly persons, both Ministers and people round about and indeed by his holy, Heavenly, humble conversation, he was such a Loadstone, as where ever he came he drew the hearts of sober Christians after him. What Nazianzen saith of Athanasius, I may truely say of him that he was Magnes & Adamas, a Loadstone in his sweet gentle nature, and yet an p. 6Adamant in his stout resolute carriage against errors and prophaneness.

CHAP. IV. His second Living in Hampshire.

HE continued not long at Capel, but upon some reasons, by means of the forementioned Mr. Bristow, he was removed to Farlington (nigh Portsmouth in Hampshire) an ignorant Heathenish place, which he endeavoured so long as he stayed with them to instruct and reform. Though there was little of Religion in his Parishioners, nor scarce any savour of good, yet whilst he abode there the Church was much frequented (Christians flocking in to hear him divers miles round,) and when he was called thence he was much bewailed.

He stayed not long in Hampshire, and though I am ignorant of the grounds of his frequent removals, (which I suppose were weighty) yet by the sequel I perceive that God intended so able and useful an instrument for more publick and general service, and thought not good to confine such great gaifts and graces, to such small Parishes.

p. 7CHAP. V. His third Living in Surry, with the success of his Iourney into Cumberland.

HIs next change was to Tedington near Kingston upon Thames, in which place he continued some years, and through the blessing of God with great success of his Ministry, and much acceptance amongst them that feared the Lord. During his abode at Tedington, he (being twenty six years of Age) had a desire to visit his native Country, where his Relations and Friends lived, and it pleased God so to assist him in his labours amongst them, that his journey became profitable for the Conversion of many. While he was in Cumberland, he was requested to Preach in Penroth, a great (if not the greatest) Market Town in the County, where, time out of mind there had been a considerable Market for all sort of food kept every Lords Day, till nine a Clock in the morning. But after he had Preached two or three Sermons, he prevailed so far with the Ministers and others of the Town, that it was Proclaimed on Tuesday their Weekly Market day. That no person for the time to come, should bring any Victuals or Ware whatsoever to be sold p. 8on the Lords day, but that Saturday should be the time for the Sale of their Commodities. And for many years after, the people did forbear to sell any thing on the Lords-day in that Town.

CHAP. VI. His removal into Kent, with the occasion of it.

HIs next removal was from Tedington to Otham, within two or three miles of Maidstone in Kent. The occasion is this, there were many serious understanding Christians in Maidstone, much troubled and dejected at the deadness and dulness of that Ministry, under which they lived. Alas, the children asked bread, and their Spiritual Father (by Profession and Office) gave them stones, that their souls were ready to famish for want of food. Whereupon Mr. Robert Swinnoche an active Godly person, one of the Aldermen or Jurats of the Town, got the presentation of Otham, upon the death of the Incumbent, and consulted with his friends and Christian Neighbours, how he might procure an able Minister for that place, aiming herein not only at the benefit of that Parish, but also of the Christians at Maidstone, who might with a little trouble and travail reap the fruit of his p. 9labours. In pursuance of this they repaired to London, where they heard of Mr. Wilson, to whom they presently take their journey, hear him Preach at Darking in Surry to their great satisfaction. After Sermon they acquainted him with the cause of their coming, and the sad condition of the good people in those parts, where they lived and desired him to accept the presentation of Otham, He who was never hasty, especially in matters of such weight, asked the judgement of his Neighbour Ministers in the Countrey, and others of the City of London, who did concur and agree in this, that-in regard of the necessities of those that feared God about Maidstone, and the great opportunity he should enjoy there, of doing good to many souls he ought to embrace the Call. Upon the declaration of their opinion he was presented to Otham, where the Lord was pleased to prosper his Ministry, for the conversion and edification of many.

p. 10CHAP. VII. His great success at Otham in Kent, and his faithfulness there.

HE was one that did divide the Word aright, a workman that needed not to be ashamed, a Boanerges, a Son of Thunder, in Preaching the Law, to awaken secure sensless sinners, that his hearers might say of him, as one of the Ancients, of St. Pauls Epistles, Non tam verba quam To…itena audiebant, &c. That they heard not so much words as Thunders, when they heard him opening the dreadful curses of the Law, and the terrible wrath of God against sin and sinners. Many a one hath come to him, as the Gaolor to the Apostle, trembling and crying out, Sir, what shall I do to be saved? To whom he was a Barnabas, a son of sweet consolation, and could so display the exceeding abundant riches of Divine grace in the Lord Jesus Christ, as to draw and attract their hearts to a cheerful compliance with it, and hearty acceptation of it. He as a faithful Steward gave every one his portion, terrour to whom terrour belonged, and comfort to whom comfort, whereby (the Holy Ghost setting in with the Word,) a numerous issu p. 11of new born children were begotton to Christ. He preached there according to the command in season, and out of season, not only twice every Lords day, but also every holy day, and at Funerals, though the persons interr'd were poor, and nothing could be expected for his pains.

Whilst he was Minister of Otham, many of Maidstone and others several miles about, to my knowledge some seven or eight miles from Otham, did ordinarily attend on his Ministry, and joyn in Communion with him at the Lords Supper; but the number that flockt after him, (which was so great that his Church would not hold them) was a great eye sore to the prophane world, and caused several of the Ministers about him to envy and maligne him.

CHAP. VIII. His care to Sanctifie the Sabbath.

There was at Otham before his coming an ill custom, for the Fulling Mills there abouts, to work every Lords day, but he convinced the owners so throughly of the unlawfulness thereof, that they forbore presently, and suffered their Mills to lie still on that day many years after he left them.

p. 12But the only wise God, who governeth the world, saw fit for some time to lay this usefull person aside, for he had not been many years at Otham, before the Book, commonly called the Book of Sports on the Lords day,Anno Domini 1635. came forth, and was presented to him, with a Command, that he should publish it the next Lords day in his Church, which he refused to do, (of which refusal he giveth the reasons, which you may see in his answer to several Articles objected against him,Towards the close of the Book. annexed to this Narrative,) and upon his refusal was suspended ab Officio & Beneficio. Upon his suspension his Cure was committed to such persons as he could not comfortably own or joyn with, which caused him to remove his Habitation to Maidstone. To the Christians there he was a great help, whilst his suspension lasted, and from them he received some support and supply for himself and his Family.

Whilst he was at Maidstone he still was solicitous for the good of his people at Otham, and therefore to encourage them to unity, and a Gospel conversation; as also to convince his adversaries, who had causelesly traduced him to be a savourer and a better of Schisms and Divisions; he wrot a Letter to his Parish, wherein the exhorted them to fear p. 13the Lord and the King, and to walk in love, &c. and not to nourish in themselves any dislike of Government, or contempt of those whom God had set over them, &c. Which Letter was read on a Lords Day in his Congregation by Dr. Tucke, (that all his Parishoners might know his judgement, and the advice he judged necessary to give them) without the appointment of Mr. Wilson. The tidings of this Letter and the publick reading of it was soon carried to London, and gave such a distast, that both Mr. Wilson and Dr. Tucke were cited to appear before the High Commission Court, and answer what they had done. Both of them appeared several times to their great trouble and cost, and were notwithstanding all they could alledge in their own defence, forced to continue their attendance on the Court, for the space of three years. In this business Dr. Tucks trouble was the greater, because (his body unable to bear riding) he was necessitated to make these long journeys of thirty miles and better on foot.

During Mr. Wilsons suspension, a Neighbour Minister greedy of his Living, commenced a Sute against him, to eject him wholly out of Otham; but his Patron Mr. Swinnoche made good his Title, and so disappointed his Adversary.

p. 14CHAP. IX. His appearance at a Visitation about the Prayer against the Scots.

HIs suspension continued till the year 1639. about which time the Scots entering England, a Parliament was called; and Archbishop Lawd took off his suspension. But his sufferings were not at an end, for in the year 1640. September 30. he and other Ministers were cited to appear at a Visitation of the Archbishops at Feversham in Kent, to answer their not reading the Prayer against the Scots, and also (as they there heard) to take the new devised Oath ex Officiam; but when he and others of his Brethren presented themselves at the place, they understood that the Oath should be wholly declined, and the onelyonly question should be why they did not read the forementioned Prayer: Upon which they consulted together, whether it were be… to appear before the Vicar General or no. … was urged by some that the Parliament (whom they apprehended would be some relief and shelter to them) being to sit down on the 3… of November following, it was but prudential for them to hold off at present; and in case they were cited afterwards to Canterbury, p. 15to appear only by a Proctour, and protract time as much as might be.

But upon a serious weighing the reasons for and against their appearing, it was concluded that they would appear, and submit to the will of God, however he should please to dispose of them. Mr. Edward Bright of Gondburst, and Mr. Wilson immediately repaired to the Inne, where Sir Nathaniel Brent, the Arch-Deacon, and some inferiour Officers sat. They no sooner appeared but Mr. Bright was pointed out by one present to the Arch-Deacon that knew him; who presently asked him his name, and whether he had read the Prayer against the Scots or no? Mr. Bright answered, No: Whereupon the Arch-Deacon suspended him ab Officio & Beneficio, without admonishing him, or giving him any time to consider of it; which sudden act was deemed even by the Favourites of that Court, to be neither prudential nor Canonical. Though Mr. Wilson stood by when his Brother was suspended, and perceived the service much hotter then he expected; yet he did not flye from his colours, or retreat in the least; But being called, answered to his Name, and being asked whether he had read the Prayer? gave a Negative answer, with this reason: Because in the Rubrick before the Common Prayer, it was enjoyned that no p. 16Prayer should be publickly read, except those that were in the Book of Common-Prayer; but this Prayer against the Scots was not there This unexpected answer puzzled the Arch-Deacon (being none of the readiest or accuted to reply) and caused him to apply himself to Sir Nathan Brent, who upon information of Mr. Wilsons reasons, very ingeniously left the Arch-Deacon to himself, and refused to meddle in it. Upon which the Arch-Deacon (the edge of his fury being somewhat abated) proceeded more considerately with Mr. Wilson then with Mr. Bright, and gave him fourteen days time to consider of it, and then to appear again at Canterbury, and answer it.

p. 17CHAP. X. His fresh prosecution by the Arch-Bishop, as also a strange providence.

BUt for all this present favour, the Arch-Bishop had not done with Mr. Wilson, or in March following, he was again and fresh prosecuted by him. Upon an Holy-day in that Month he met at the Personage house, (of which one Mr. Butcher an eminently pious person had a part, of whom di… not my Relation to him forbid me, I could speak much,) after his Sermon in publick with several friends, to repeat the Sermon, and seek God by prayer. After the exercises were done (in a Room peculiar to Master Butcher) one knockt at the poor, to which Mrs. Wilson was going, but suddenly started back, fearing a Messenger was come to apprehend her Husband; but the Messenger soon entered into the Room, where Mr. Wilson and his friends were, and putting off his hat, enquired which was Mr. Wilson, pretending some private business with him. Though Mr. Wilson was there in his Gown, having newly Preached and Prayed, and thereby easily to be distinguished from others, yet God so ordered it, that the Messenger observed p. 18served him not. Soon after the Messenger came into the Room. Mr. Wilson stept behind some of his friends, and Mr. Butcher wisely stept forward, and told the Messenger, that the Room in which they were was his, and that he should look for Mr. Wilson in his own Rooms; upon this he quickly withdrew into the Hall, another Room; in the intrim Mr. Wilson went up the Stairs into his Study, and lay close there till night, and then escaped to Mr. George Halls at the Park is Maidstone. The Pursevant looking about in vain, on second thoughts returns back into the Parlor, into which he first entered, and missing one whom he had seen there before enquires for him, chargeth all there present that they had conveyed Mr. Wilson away, and they must find him out; he also produced his Warrant, under the hands of many privy Counsellors, whereof the Arch-Bishop of Canterbury, and the Bishop of London were two, to attach the body of Thomas Wilson, Rector of Otham, and bring him before them.

After he had shewed his Order, he commanded Mr. Butcher and one Mr. Morgan to assist him in the search of the House for Mr. Wilson. But notwithstanding his diligent search, he mist his desired prey. The Messenger was very angry that he should see him p. 19and yet lose him; but when in some threatnings to the persons present, he had given his fury vent, he was somewhat cooler, and after some private discourse with Mrs. Wilson, he took his leave. Before his departure, he said that he had been a Messenger to the Councel Table thirty six years, and was never served so before, for as he confessed, he heard him Preach that day in publick, and yet when he saw him so soon after (and that in his Gown) he did not know him. But God had an hand in it, Thy Kingdom ruleth over all, Psa. 103. 19. He hath strange ways for the preservation of Men.

p. 20CHAP. XI. Strange Providences; Mr. Wilsons freedom obtained by Sir Edward Deering, with his Charactor of Mr. Wilson.

THe Circumcellians beset the way, which they knew St. Augustine was to go, that they might kill him; but he mistook his way, and so escaped their hands. In Queen Mary's days the Bishop of Winchester pursued Mr. Iohn Fox the Martyrologist to Ipswich; the Bark in which he was, was newly gone out of the Haven, when the Messenger came to take him, and the next day by reason of storms forced to return thither again, the Messenger was departed. Since those days Mr. Parker a learned worthy Preacher was prosecuted by Archbishop Bancrost, for his Book against the Cross, &c. and the Archbishop having intelligence that he was in a Citizens House in London, thought he had him safe, sent one presently to watch at the door of the house, to see that none stirr'd out, till others came with authority to search it for Master Parker. The person sent, sat him down at the door, boasting that none should come out, but he would know who and what they were.

p. 21Mr. Parker and his Friends within were in great thoughtfulness what was most addresseable in such a straight; at last it was resolved that Mr. Parker should habit himself like a Citizen and venture out; this way he might possibly escape, if he staid within, he was sure to be taken. Accordingly, he thus clad came forth, not knowing but that the Waiter was still at the door, but Providence so ordered it, that the Waiter espying a Maid whom he Loved and Courted, walking on the other side of the way, stept over to her, just at Mr. Parker came forth, so that though the Messenger stayd a very little while with her, but returned again, Mr. Parker was gone; and when the rest came with power to search the house, the person they sought was not to be found. But to return to Mr. Wilson, who hid himself in the Countrey from the storm till the Parliament sat, at which time he repaired to London, and there continued in some change of Apparal (that he might not be commonly known) till his liberty and freedom was procured, by the means of Sir Edward Deering, one of the Knights of the Shire for Kent, whose character of him in one of his Speeches in Parliament, I shall here insert,

— Mr. Wilson, for so is your Petitioner named, a Man Orthodox in his Doctrine, p. 22conformable in his Life, labourous in Preachings, as any we have, or I do know; He is now seperated from his People, to both their griefs, for 'tis not with him as with others, who are glad to set a Pursivant a work, that they may have an excuse to be out of the Pulpit; It is his delight to Preach.

Having thus obtained his liberty, he returned to his former charge and wonted pains at Otham. Not long after he was chosen by the Parliament a Member of that Reverend, Pious and Learned Assembly of Divines, which sat at Westminster; on which Assembly he usually attended most part of the week, and notwithstanding his pains there, supplied his Cure on the Lords Day, though his Parish was 35 or 36. miles from London. He was much esteemed in the Assembly, for his solid judicious Discourses as occasion was offered, and his meek humble behaviour.

p. 23CHAP. XII. His removal to Maidstone.

HIs last remove was to Maidstone, the Shire-Town of Kent, for who so fit for so populous a place (where there is but one English Church) as one of such vast parts exemplary Holiness and strong constitution of body. As soon as the way was opened to his induction into Maidstone, (through the ejection of the old Incumbent, by the Committee of Plundered Ministers) his old Hearers there, whose hearts were close knit to him, long'd for his settlement among them. But the Parliament ordering that Plundered Ministers should first be provided for, where any Livings were vacant, they could not at present obtain their desire: For one Master Smith, an able holy man, of the number of the foresaid Ministers, was by the Committee of Plundered Ministers sent down to Maidstone. Mr. Smith had not been long in Maidstone, but a rumour was spread, that eminent persons should be removed to great Towns and Cities, that they might be capable of doing the more good, and that Mr. Wilson should be removed from Otham, to some considerable place. At which news the people of p. 24Maidstone were much startled, fearing they should lose their beloved Pastour. To prevent which, they apply themselves to Mr. Smith, desiring him to accept of some other Living, that Maidstone might be free for Mr. Wilson. Mr. Smith considering the vehement desires of the good people after Mr. Wilson, yielded to refer the business to six judicious Ministers of the Assembly, whereof three to be chosen by himself, and three by the Christians of Maidstone. The Ministers met accordingly, and having heard what could be said on both sides, and weigh the matter throughly, gave their advice that it would be best for Mr. Smith to resign the place to Mr. Wilson, which also he did, and having a considerable place, some six or seven miles from Maidstone provided for him, viz. Harrison, he took his own time to remove thither. Thus at last by the good hand of God, Mr. Wilson and the people of Maidstone (who brought him first into Kent) who were long before joyned together in heart, were joyned together in Habitation, amongst whom he continued with much love and faithfulness, till God called him out of this World.

p. 25CHAP. XIII. His care for Otham, and for Reformation at Maidstone.

BUt though he left Otham, he did not leave off to care for the souls of his people there, but kept his Title to the place still, (least the Patron should put in an insufficient Minister, in case he had resigned) and provided them a pious learned faithful man, to whom he gave the whole profits of the Living, for he held not his right to the place upon any carnal account, or for any self ends, but only for the good of the people.

When he had been some time at Maidstone, he took care about the Reformation of the Church, and due administration of the Sacraments, according to the Word of God, to which end, he did first in his Preaching discover to them the necessity of Church Ordinances and Discipline, the nature of the Subjects thereof, &c. and then God accompanying his diligent endeavours (notwithstanding the obstacles he met with, not onelyonly by the prophane, but also some that professed the fear of God) he brought it to a good issue, and put it in practice, to the great comfort of them that were Godly.

p. 26Being freed Sea from attendance on the Assembly (they being dissolved) he applied himself to the work of the Ministry, with the greatest diligence that ever I heard or read of any.

CHAP. XIV. His great diligence and labouriousness on the Lords Day.

ON Saturday nights he would usually continue at his Study very late, often till midnight, to prepare himself the better for his task on the Lords Day. On the Lords Day morning he would rise by two or three a Clock ordinarily, and was much displeased with himself, if at any time he did oversleep his hour. About seven a clock he came down to his Family, call'd all together, read some part of Scripture, expounded it, caused those present to give an account what they remembred of his Exposition, Sung some part of a Psalm, Prayed with them, and concluded between eight and nine a Clock that they might all be ready to attend publick Ordinances. About nine a Clock he repaired to the Church, and commonly begun with singing two Staves of a Psalm, after which he prayed briefly for assistance in, and a blessing on the p. 27Ordinances of God, then he read some part of the old Testament, and expounded (sometimes three or four, sometimes more Verses, as more or less matter was contained in them) for the space of an hour, for he had an Hour-glass in his Desk for that end. He had as excellent a faculty in expounding as any I know of. His custom was first to analise the Book, then the Chapters, as he came to treat on them, then he gave the several readings and expositions of the Verses, which he handled. He had Iun. Tremel. Piscator. Beza. Calvin. and several others ad rugnem, insomuch that in the assembly of Divines (as Mr. Gibbons sometime of Black-friers told me, he heard it of his Father one of the Assembly) if at any time they doubted what was the opinion of any of the aforementioned Commentators, Mr. Wilson was called to satisfie them. After he had delivered the several readings and judgements of Expositors, as there was occasion, he drew observations for the coherence, dependance and matter of the Verses, which he very briefly illustrated and applied. Mr. Hutchison on the Gospel of Iohn comes the nearest him of any Comment that I read in English, but he was fuller and larger then Mr. Hutchison. I believe, if his expositions on the whole New Testament, and the far greater part of the Old had been Printed, it p. 28would have been an useful Treatise, and more serviceable for the enabling ordinary Christians to understand the mind of God in his Word, then any Comment that is extant. After he had expounded, he spent about an hour in the Pulpit. When he came home to his Family, he constantly went to Prayer with them before Dinner, and begg'd that the truths delivered out of the Word, might be written by the Spirit of God upon all their hearts. After which he went to his Studdy, (eating little or no dinner usually) till after his Family had dinn'd, then he spent some time with them in singing and other religious exercises. In the afternoon in publick he did as in the Morning, onelyonly his exposition was then on some part of the New Testament.

After the Evening Worship in publick, many Neighbours came to his house, where he called his Family together, asked of them and others present, an account of his Sermons preached that day, most of them present would speak somewhat, one what the Text was, another the division of it, another the Doctrine of it, another the reasons, so others the explications and uses methodically as he had delivered them, all whom he would help and encourage. Hereby their understandings and memories were much advantaged, for they knowing before hand his custome, were p. 29the more attentive in hearing, and the more careful to remember what they heard, whereas when the Master of the Family repeats all himself, Children and Servants (who have a natural aversness to, yea hatred of all good) are usually heedless in hearing, and mindless both in publick and private of what they hear. After repitition he sung a Psalm and concluded with prayer. Then he went to his quondam Patrons house Mr. Robert Swinnocks to Supper. By that time he had supped, there would be hundred or more gathered together to Mr. Swinnocks house, to joyn with him in the conclusion of the day.

Many times to my comfort, I have seen two Rooms, one considerable for largeness, through which persons of all ranks, (the Mayor, Jurates and their Wives by their patterns encouraging others) to worship the great God. After Supper he came among them, begun with a short prayer, then would read the Verses he had expounded in that day, ask what observations were raised from such a Verse, then proceed to the next, so through all the Verses he had expounded forenoon and afternoon, then enquire what the Text were, the Doctrines, the Explications, Reasons, Uses, all in order as preached, seldom named one head himself, but still heartned them to speak, and assisted them when they were at a p. 30loss, then they sung a Psalm, and he ended the day with prayer about ten a clock at night.

Once a month he administred the Lords Supper to a considerable number of solid serious Christians, with that life and warmth in prayer and opening Scripture, that some of his Communicants have thought themselves in the Suburbs of Heaven, when they have joyned with him in that Ordinance, in which he spent an hour and half commonly. Thus he Sanctified the Lords Day, spending nine or ten hours in publick and private Worship, beside what time he spent in secret duties, in which he was never niggardly; so that the Sabbath, which was a day of rest to others, was a day of great pains and labour to him, yet it was easie, yea delightful to him; and at the end of the day, when those who took not half his pains, have complained of their weariness, he would be exceeding lively and chearful; such was his great love to his Saviour, and the souls committed to his charge. The Sabbath day to him was a day of light and gladness, and a good day.

p. 31CHAP. XV. The great pains he took with his people on the Week-days.

YEt he did not think it sufficient to Teach his people on the Lords Day, but the Town being very populous, and the Parish large, and he rendred thereby uncapable of going from house to house) on the Week-days he layd out himself in the service of his Lord, for the henefit of his Parish. Every Thursday their Market-day he preached a Lecture, to which many Ministers came, and with much delight sat under him. On Frydays he met in private with as many of his people as would come together, when sometimes he expounded the Scripture to them, sometimes preached and always sung and prayed with them. And also Mundays or Tursdays, for his day was altered as he saw occasion) he appointed a Conference in the publick Meeting place, where the question being before propounded and known, (ex gr. what was the nature of repentance or faith, or what the sighness, or what the means, or what the motives to it) his people prepared to speak to it, and he by his wise courteous carriage and language won their hearts, and drew them to Study the p. 32Scriptures and good Books, that they might be able to speak to the purpose. As they spake when he saw occasion he would help and assist them, yet still take care to keep them in the way of Truth, and that none did go beyond their bounds, or incroach upon the Ministry. After they had spoken, he would gather together their scattered notions, bring them into an orderly method, apply to them sutable Texts of Scripture, add what of his own he thought necessary, and so render the meeting exceeding profitable and comfortable to his flock. I have heard him at one of these Meetings, when the question was about one of the petitions in the Lords Prayer, to my great advantage and delight, for Christian Communion, mannaged with prudence, is that which keeps our Religion in breath, and without which it would be ready to die.

When he laid down this way of Conference, instead thereof he set up Catechising on the Week-days in publick, and this was continued till he had gone through the whole Town, except some Families in the out bounds, which Families he intended also to have Cathechized, but was prevented. He did work the work of him that sent him into the world, spend himself as the Silk-worm to cloath, and as the Lamp to direct others, not to bury the p. 33Talent in the Napkin of idleness: Indeed those Nurses (Ministers I mean) deserve the greatest condemnation, who let their Children, though they cry, starve to death, because they will not take the pains to draw out their breasts to them.

CHAP. XVI. His diligence on all occasions to do good, as also his way of Preaching.

HE was of a noble disposition, very free upon the occasions, to communicate knowledge to others, not like a Whirlpool that sucks all to it self, but as a Fountain to disperse its streams for the refreshment of many. Seldom were any in his company, but they might (if it were not their own fault) receive good by him. He was neither vain in ostentation, nor niggardly in reservation, some might think he did ill to take so much pains on the Lords Days, and on the Week-days constantly, and on all occasions, to the shortning of his life; but he was sensible he could never labour enough for his Lord, and that God make no difference between nequam & nequaquam, an idle and an evil servant. Hence it was that when he was often advised by his friends to be mindful of his body, and p. 34not to work it so hard, he was deaf to all those advice, and was ready to say with Calvin (when counselled by his friends to take care of his health) Would you have my Lord when he comes, to find me idle; and with Dr. Reynolds of Oxford (when the Doctors persuaded him not perdere substantiam propter accidentia) Noc propter vitam vivendi perdere causas. I met him once at night at a friends house, when he had travelled near fourty miles that day, yet notwithstanding his great weariness, he would spend some time in expounding Scripture to the Family, beside singing and prayer (which he never omitted) before he went to bed.

St. Austins wish was, that Christ when he came to call him by death, might find him aut precautem aut predicautem, either praying or preaching. Truely, such seem'd to be the desire of Mr. Wilson, by his indefalligable laboriousness about his Masters business. I never knew him given to any recreation (though never so innocent) but exceeding provident he was of his time, A little after dinner he would sometimes sit and discourse, but usually if he was at home, his Study was his place of abode. He was Hellno librorum, an indefutigable Student, stealing time from his sleep (even when his body call'd for it) for his Book. Its said of Bradfrod that he p. 35slept not above four hours in the night, and that his Book went not out of his hand till sleep came, and that Latimer Winter and Summer at two a Clock in the morning; and of another Martyr that he was spare of meat, sparer of sleep, out sparest of time. Mr. Wilson made much conscience of his time, and especially on the Lords Day.

If he were invited to a Feast, he was so zealous for his God, that he commonly after dinner called for a Bible, sung a Psalm, expounded some Verse of Scripture, and prayed with his friends. Mr. Fenner of Essex that eminent servant of Christ, meeting him once at Mr. Butchers house, was so extreemly taken with his active chearful Spirit for God and Godliness, that he said to Mr. Butcher, I am ashamed of my self, to see how Mr. Wilson gallopeth towards Heaven, and I do but creep on, a Snails pace.

Though he was a good Linguist, well read in modern and ancient Authors, yet ordinarily he preached (though always rationally and with evidence of reason,) yet in a plain clear stile, by Doctrine, reason, and use, that he might be understood by the meanest capacity. His constant preaching discovered him an able Workman; his Doctrines were always clear from his Text, his heads pertinent to his subject, and he had a rare faculty in applying p. 36sutable Scriptures (which is the principal way of convincing the judgement; for 'tis the authority of God must do the work) to all his heads. On the Lords Day in the afternoon for a considerable time (I suppose till he had gone through all) he preached on the Heads of Divinity, but therein he discovered so much Learning and judgement in his plain preaching, that if his Sermons had been preached at the University, they must have been highly approved.

He was so much valued for his abilities, that there was scarce any publick occasion of Sermons in the County, but he was chosen to be the person to preach them, sometimes he preached before the Judges at the Assize…, twice before the Parliament. What Augustine said of another, I may say of him: Ratuir eloquens, ut intelligenter, ut obedienter andiretur.

p. 37CHAP. XVII. His carriage in his Family, and his exemplary conversation.

HE was not of the number of them, who are zealous abroad, that they may be well spoken of, but careless at home, what becomes of their Families; but as David, he walked in the midst of his house with a perfect heart, and brought up his Children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. Cicero saith of Quintus Maximinus, that he was not good only in the sight of the people, but he was better out of their sight: truly he was as good within, as without doors, each morning and evening he read some part of Scripture expounded it, sung part of a Psalm, and prayed with his Family. He would often ask his Children questions about the Principles of Religion, examine them about his Sermons on the Lords day, and cause them to learn the Scripture without Book.

As it was said to Mr. Hooper, he governed his house, so that in every corner of it, there was some sinal of vertue, good example, honest conversation, and reading of the Scripture. I am sure if Mr. Wilsons house was not so, the fault was not the want of a good Governour.

p. 38He prayed often with his wife apart from the rest of his Family, and spent much time in secret prayer, knowing a truth in what Lactantius saith, Non est vera Religio quae cum Templo relinquitur.

He was very watchful to set a good example before his Children and Servants, knowing that such are led more by the eye then the ear, and more observant of what their Superiours do then what they say. And indeed his whole conversation was a living exposition upon the Gospel… that what he taught on the Lords Day in his Doctrine, he preached over all the week in his life. O how unlike was he to those Ministers that are lovely in their preaching, but loathsome in their practices, whose lives give the lie to their Doctrines. He was exemplary in his converse with all men, and spake much by his carriage, even when he spake not a word. His good works were unanswerable, syllogismes invincible demonstrations to convince his Neighbours, whereby he stole their hearts, and won their affections after the beauty of holiness. What Ruffinus saith of Gregory Naziaenzen is true, of him, Gregorius vir per omnia incomparabilis qui verba & operibus clarus, splendissimum lumen scientiae Ecclesiae prebuit; dum ea decuit quae ferit, &c. He practized what he preached, and did according to what he saith; Such p. 39Ministers only can make their people believe, that when they disswade from sin, and perswade to holiness, they are in earnest, and believe what they speak. It was not without cause that in the holy Scriptures, where Epistles are recorded to be sent to two Ministers onelyonly, they are both commanded to be examples to their people, 1 Tim 4. 12. Be thou an example of the believers, in Words, in Conversation, in Charity, in Faith, in Purity. Tit. 2. 7. In all things shewing thy self a patern of good works.

p. 40CHAP. XVIII. The Reformation which was wrought by his means and Ministry in Maidstone.

MAidstone was formerly a very prophane Town, insomuch that I have seen Morrice dancing, Cudgel playing, Stool-ball, Crickets, and many other sports openly and publickly on the Lords Day; I have heard them jeer, and deride, and mock at those who professed Godliness, and went to hear a Sermon on the Lords Day abroad, when they had none at home. Commonly after the Evening Service, many of them went to the Ale-house, many to walk idly in the Fields. It was their constant custom to ply the conduits on the Lords Day for the drawing of water. The former vain sinful customes of sports were reformed before his coming, but by his preaching he prevailed with them to forebear vain walking, idling at their doors, also to draw their water on Saturday night, which they should have occasion for on the Lords Day. Though the Town was large and full of people, yet you should hardly see one person in the street after the Sermons on the Lords Day, and I have known when the Mayor hath searched the Innes and Ale-houses p. 41he hath scarce found one of the Town there. One of the Judges at an Assize was pleased to say, That in all his Circuit he never came to a Town where the Lords Day was so strictly observed. I must say that I scarce ever knew any man so strict as Mr. Wilson in the Sanctification of the Lords day. He so much wrought upon the people there, that in the house where I lived, all Pot hearbs were gathered and made ready on the Saturday night, and whatsoever for their Dinners put into a readiness, for the fire on the day before, not a Rose or Flower suffered to be gathered on the Lords Day. He was much of the mind of the primitive Christian, who being asked Servasti Dominicum, answered Christianus sum, omittere non possum. The Sanctification of that day is exceeding useful to keep up the power of Godliness in our hearts and lives. And as God on that day bestoweth great blessings on them, that humbly and reverently worship him on that Queen of days, that Market day of our souls, Isa. 58. 13, 14. So he hath inflicted dreadful Judgements on the profaners of that day, and when men have neglected to punish them, he hath taken the Sword into his own hand, and done it himself. One example whereof there was in Maidstone when I lived there: In former time p. 42that day was much prophaned, as I said before, and children were wont to play in the streets on that day. One Sabbath as children were playing near a wall, against which Wagen-wheels were set up, on a sudden there arose a great wind, which blew down a wheel upon one of the Children, and crusht it to death. Felix quem faciunt aliena pericula cautum.

Besides on week days (such was the blessing of God upon his preaching and example) many Families Morning and Evening did set up religious duties, who never minded them before. You might there, if you walkt in the great street about nine and ten a clock in a morning hear singing in many Families, for they commonly sung Morning and Evening, when they read the Word and Prayed.

p. 43CHAP. XIX. His great Courage.

HE had a strong and undaunted Spirit, not discouraged by any obstacles, which were laid in the way of his duty. He feared God and none else. He was like that Ancient, that when a threatning message of death was sent him, bid the Messenger tell the Empress, Nil timeo nisi peccatum, I fear nothing but sin; Or Rowland Taylor, who being intreated to flie the Marian days, said, I know the cause so good, and the truth so strong on my side, it will by Gods grace-appear before their Beads, resists their false doings for I believe I shall never be able to Good so good a service as now.

He discovered much courage in reproving sin, for as Christ said of the Church of Ephesus, he could not bear those that were evill, were they never so great. Elijah durst speak to Ahab, and Mr. Wilson to the highest person, by way of reprehension, when there was cause for it. If men were bold in sinning, he was as bold in telling them of it, and giving their sins their due accents, yet as wise Physitian, he could distinguish between Pimples and p. 44Plague sores, between infirmities and scandals, accordingly apply himself to his Patients.

CHAP. XX. Of his Zeal.

HE was one that abundantly discovered his zeal for God in embracing all opportunities to do him service, in his great care where ever he came for the strict observation, and right Sanctification of the Lords Day, in his sense of the dishonour done to God by the prophaness and contempt of the ordinaces of God by some, and by the errors and wilful withdrawings from the Ordinances by others; which he bewailed bitterly to his dying day. Some who its hoped had the root of matter in them; questioned his call to the Ministry, nay suspected his call to be Anti-christian and seperated from him, though they themselves acknowledges that he was their Spiritual Father, and had begotten them through the Gospel, and he might say to them as the Apostles to the Corinthians, Ye are the Seal of our Ministry, do we need as some others Letters of Commendation to you, ye are our Epistle, known and read of all men; For asmuch as ye are manifestly declared to be the p. 45Epistle of Christ Ministred by us, written not with ink, but with the Spirit of the living God, not in Tables of stone, but in fleshly Tables of the heart, 2 Cor. 3. 1, 2, 3. How frequently and affectionately did he urge that upon them, that separated in my hearing, Isa. 11, 6, 7, 8, 9. This causeless sinful separation lay near his heart, even when he lay upon his dying bed. The great danger of their souls, as also of those that wholly cast of the care of their eternal good, caused him in the course of his Sermons and Expositions, when the Scriptures led him to it, to reprove their sins sharply, and indeed according to the command of the Holy Ghost, he could do it foreign, cuttingly that they might be sound in the Faith. Tit. 1. 13. Its reported of Bazil that one hearing much of him, had a great desire to know what manner of man he was; hereupon in a Vision was represented to him a flame of sire, with this motto, Talis est Basilius, such a man is Basil. And truly such a man was Mr. Wilson, meek and cold, when at any time himself was reproached and abused; but as hot as fire in the cause of his God. The zeal of Gods house burnt him up. Errors and Heresies were very odious to him, such was his love to the truth. It might be said of him as of Austin, that was Malleus Haereticorum, The Hamer of Heresies and Schismes, p. 46I have heard him often quote and comment on those Scriptures, Heb. 10. 25. and 1 Iohn 2. 19. With much warmth and vigour, that if it were possible he might reduce those that went astray. And though such as were toucht in their sores were angry, and said, it was passion, and his natural heat was Kitchin fire, the effect of his natural Spirit, yet the judicious knew otherwise, that it was a coal from the Altar, true zeal, the fruit of Gods Spirit, in him knowing that he was set foreign, (as the Apostle speaks, Phil. 1. 17. For the defence of the Gospel. Some of those that separated, were very dear to him, that he might say as David, It was not an enemy that reproached me, then I could have born it willingly, was it he that hated me, that did magnisie himself against me? But it was my friend and my acquaintance, we took sweet counsel together, and (formerly) walked to the house of God in Company, Psa. 55. 12, 13, 14. But as dear as they were to him, the Truth of the Gospel were much dearer, Amicus Socrates, amicus Plato, sed magis amica veritas. And he was a man of such clear convincing light, and as it is said of Apollos, Acts 18. 24. foreign, able, strong, mighty in the Scriptures, that had they not been wilfully blind, or very weak eyed, they must have seen their errors. It is observed p. 47by some as a special Providence of God, that the same day in which Pelagius the Heretick was born in Brittain, St. Augustine the great Confuter of his Heresie was born in Affrick; God so disposing it, that the Poison and the Antidote should come into the World together, I am sure it was a good providence to Maidstone, that when many errors sprung up, there was such an able faithful Husbandman to watch them and root them out, otherwise many more then did, might have fallen from their own stedfastness, and been led away with the errors of the times.

p. 48CHAP. XXI. Of Faith and Heavenly mindedness.

HE was not only sound in the Faith, and did foreign, hold fast the form of sound words, 2 Tim. 1. 3. But also as Abraham foreign, was strong in the Faith, Rom. 4. 20. And in the greatest dangers and difficulties could rely on God, and trust him with himself and all he had. He met with much opposition, (as is before declared) in the work of Ministry from all sorts of persons, both from open enemies and seeming friends, for Satan knowing him so great an enemy to his Kingdom of darkness, both by his life and Doctrine, raised great winds and storms, if it were possible to put out this burning and shining light; But he was undaunted in the midst of all, not moved by any of those things, neither counted he his life dear unto him, so he might finish his course with joy, and the Ministry which he received of the Lord Iesus, Acts 20. 24. He minded his own work, consulted his duty, left Gods work) the issues and events thereof) to God.

He was a Rock immovable, though the Waves beat sore upon him, and had often p. 49that saying of Luther in his Mouth, Mallem ruore cum Christo quam regnare cum Caesare, I had rather fall with Christ then stand with Caesar. He knew God could and would take care of his own cause and interest, what ever became of him and other instruments. His Lutheran Spirit could argue, Si piam & justam causam defendimus, cur Dei promissis non confidimus? praeter vitans hanc misellam Satanas & Mundus nobis etipere nihil possunt. At vivit, & in sempiternum regnat Christus in cujus tutela consistit veritas: Is nobis aderit, is etiam causam hanc, quae non nostra sed ipsius est, ad optatum producet sinem. If the cause be good that we defend, why do we not trust God who hath made us such gracious promises? The Devil and World can take nothing from us but the miserable life, but Christ lives and reigns for ever, &c.

He was a man that lived much above the World, the great things therof were very little in his eyes, though his habitation was on Earth, his conversation was in Heaven. Indeed he had but a small estate, especially considering his great charge, but a poor man may be Earthly and covetous as one that is rich, for covetousness doth not lie in the Chest or Bags, or great Mannours, but in the heart. But he was Master of, not a Slave to that little he had. His mind was fitted to his estate, p. 50and notwithstanding he had many opportunities and advantages for the getting riches if he had sought them, yet he never made use of them for that purpose. He was wholly taken up with his Treasure in Heaven, and was so far from minding Earthly things, that he seldom or never meddled with Earthly things; but left all to his pious and prudent yoke fellow. I have often admired his indifferency of spirit to the things of this life. O how far was he from the number of many in our days who trouble themselves with Ploughing, and Sowing, and Reaping, (unnecessarily) and worldly concerns, all the Week, and on the Lords Day, and set their people off with raw indigested confused discourses, and sometimes little better then non-sense. A little before the insurrection in Kent in the year 1648. one hundred pound was brought into Mr. Wilsons house, (being a Legacy given his eldest Daughter, by a gracious man Mr. Iohn Bigge, one of the Jurates of Maidstone, and I believe the greatest portion any of his children had) which money in the time of the insurrection was by the Souldiers (when they searched the house for Armes) discovered and taken away (though quickly restored again) Mr. Wilson being then at London. When the Countrey was quiet, and Mr. Wilson returned again to his dwelling, I asked him whether he p. 51was not much troubled, when he heard his money was gone, he answered me (and I do believe him,) I was no more troubled when I heard the money was carried out of my house, then I was when I heard it was brought into my house. I also then enquired of him what frame of spirit he was in, when he went from Maidstone, for the Town & Country being in Arms, many of the mean prophane wretches reproached him, when he was going out of the Town, they took his Horse by the Briddle, and twice or thrice brought him back) crying out Wilson, Wilson, Where is your God now? Where is your God now? He told me, truely I thought (when they blasphemously said unto me, Where is your God?) on the Text, My God is in Heaven, and hath done whatsoever he pleased, Ps. 115. 3.

p. 52CHAP. XXII. Of his great natural Abilities, and his Humility.

GReat were his gifts as well as his graces; God was pleased to bestow on him large natural endowments, whereby he became much the more capable of doing good. He had a quick apprehension, a clear understanding, a deep and sound judgement, and a most tenacious memory. He was none of those Preachers, whose tongues and galloping, whilst sober reason and convincing sense standeth still, or at best doth but creep. He discovered strong judgement in a few words. His body was of a strong constitution, and truly so was his soul. He would presently find out the meaning of ha…d Authors, and what he read was his own; I never knew any of the same strength of memory. Though he was careful to write down his Sermons, Heads, Proofs and explications (as he himself told me) yet I never saw him use any Notes. And he made a good use of his memory, it was not as a childs pocket stuft with trash, but as the Ark wherein the two Tables were laid up. He had scarce his equal for his remembrance of the Scripture; he was (as I have heard) p. 53tried a long time together. One took a Bible, and read a Verse in one Chapter, another Verse in another, went forward and backward, both as to the Books and Chapters, and Verses of the Scripture, and all along he told the Reader the Verse, Chapter, and Book, without any mistake. And to the best of my remembrance, himself told me that he believed, he could tell the Book, Chapter, and Verse, which any should read to him all the day long. Much appeared in his Prayers. I have heard him of a fast-day pray an hour together, and most of the time in Scripture Phrases. The Word was dear to him, his daily delight and meditation.

That which made all his parts useful and amiable, was that he made Hagar to wait on Sarah, and as David consecrated the spoils taken from the Gentiles to the Temple, so he Dedicated his natural accomplishments to his God, and made them serviceable before the advancement of his honour.

But for all his great natural and gracious accomplishments he was cloathed with humility; None thought so low of him as he of himself. His face like Moses shined, that all his judicious friends observed it, and admired it, but he knew it not. He had not the least affectation or shew of oftentation in his carnage or language, or any other thing.

p. 54Empty Vessels make the greatest sound and noise, those that are full are more silent. Ignorance and Pride, emptiness and arrogancy are usually concomitants. He knew much, yet the more he knew, the more sensible he was of his ignorance, and nothingness, and unworthiness, and walked the more humbly with his God; as a Bough laden with Fruit, or an Ear with Corn, the fuller and weightier, the more they bend down-ward; he as the Violet hung down and hid his head, though his fragranacy and sweetness discovered him what he was.

In his cloaths he was always grave and sober, never minding the whimsical modes or fashions, but ever keeping to the same manner of his attire. I stood once with him at his door, when a great Gallant antickly drest went by, upon which he secretly said, I have made a Covenant with mine eyes, why should I be hold vanity.

How accomplished was this good man, when he had such rich natural gifts, and such great gracious Habits, which as the Diamond to the Ring add true value to naturals. Alas what are all natural abilities which act grace, but as Ciphers which act a figure insignificant, and in Gods account standing for nothing; nay, usually the greater part which act grace, the greater prophaneness, Satan makes most p. 55use of such acute Wits, and sharp Swords to do the more mischief; At best, they are but as Toads with a Pearl in their Heads and Poison in their whole body. But Mr. Wilson had this happiness, to have his great gifts adorned and ennamel'd with great grace, hourly he became the greater instrument of Gods Glory.

p. 56CHAP. XXIII. His Wives, and Children.

WHen he was about twenty six years of Age, he married a Daughter of Sir — Zinzans, who being in a consumption before she married him, (and as I have heard for love of him, her Parents judging him much below her) died within seven or eight months after her marriage.

About a year after her death he married Mistress Damaris Cable, (Daughter of Mr. Iames Cable of London Merchant,) who was a meet help to him in his Civil and Spiritual concerns; by her he had eleven children, one whereof, viz. his eldest son Samuel who feared the Lord in his youth, died young, the other ten he left at his death with his disconsolate Widow. He had little of this world to leave his many Children, (about one hundred pounds a piece, as I have heard, after their Mothers death) but he hath left them much, if we consider the many fervent prayers, which night and day he poured out before the Lord on their behalves. I have read of one that when she came to die told her Children: I p. 57have little to leave you, but this I must tell you, there is not one Room in the House, which is not perfumed with prayer for you. Often did good Mr. Wilson cry out to God, O that my children might live in thy sight: Lord come down by thy Spirit into their hearts, least my children, die, least they die eternally. The God of all grace, who hath promised to be a God to his and their Seed, in his own day give a gracious answer to all the Requests that are on the sile in Heaven for them. He had the happiness promised, the good man, Psal. 128. 3. Thy Wife shall be as a fruitful Vine, by the sides of thine House: thy Children like Olive Plants round about thy Table. O that he might have that happiness to meet all his Children with joy at the great Day.

p. 58CHAP. XXIV. His Sickness and Death.

THat piety which did shine so brightly in his life, did wonderfully sparkle in his death. The messenger which God sent to call him hence, (for morbus est via ad mortem) was a violent Feaver, which he welcomed, as knowing it was sent by a gracious Father to call him home to his Fathers House. No guest comes at any time a miss to him that keeps a constant Table, no providence, no not death it self comes at any time amiss to him that is always ready, and dieth dayly while he liveth. His Lamps were burning, his Oyl was ready in his Vessel, when the Bridegroom came.

His Feaver had continued but a little while, before his friends did Prognosticate, that it would prove mortal, and remove him from thence, whom they loved as their own souls, and under whose Ministry they had sat with so much delight. But what he had been in the course of his life, the same did he continue to be to his death; Though his desease was violent, and his fits often acute and sharp, yet he p. 59never complained, he might groan, but he never grumbled; his pain might cause him to mourn, but it did not make him murmur; he reverenced the rod in the hand of his Father, and that Cup which his Father gave him to drink he submitted to. In his extremity his Faith and patience would eminently shine forth to the honour of God and comfort of those that visited him.

Being sensible of his approaching death, he was exceeding solicitous for the Town and Parish, whereof he was Minister. Its a worthy speech of Laelius in Cicer. de Amicit. Mihi non minori Curae est, qualis respublicae post mortem meam futura sit, quam qualis bodis sit. My care is as great what shall become of the Common-wealth when I am dead, as what it shall do while I live. So this good man was very anxious what should become of this people, when God should call him away. As Moses before he died, was careful to appoint a Successor, that might lead Gods people (whom he had brought into the borders) into the Land of Promise the Earthly Canaan. So Mr. Wilson before he died took care for a Successor that might further that good work which he had begun through grace, in many of them, and be helpful to conduct them to their Heavenly Canaan. To this end he called some of the Town, who were wise and p. 60gracious) to him, and advised them to consider of some able good Minister to succeed him, and he commended Mr. Iohn Crump a worthy Minister to them as the fittest that he knew to be their Pastour. Afterwards Mr. Crump did succeed him not only in his place, but also in his faithfulness, and diligence, and serviceableness, to the comfort and advantage of the people.

As Iacob before his death called his children together, to direct and advise what should befall them, so he called his Wife and Children to him; desiring his Wife not to be discouraged at his death: or to sorrow as they that have no hope, but to continue to serve God in Christ, to trust God, and to be chearful in him, adding this for her comfort. Though now we are parted for a time, yet there is a time coming that we shall be joyned again, never to part more. His children were most little, but those that were capable, he exhorted to fear God be times, and directing his speech to his eldest daughter, he said, Look to it that you meet me not at the day of Iudgment in an unregenerate estate. He commended all his Children to the Lord, and left them with him, in much Faith in the Covenant, which God had made to him and his.

When Christian Friends came to visit him, he always laboured to require their kindness p. 61in Godly counsel and exhortations: he wisht them to be frequent in reading the Scriptures, to prize highly and meditate much on the promises, to be holy and blameless in their conversations, by no means to forsake but to stick close to ordinances, and to hold on in communion with the people of God in the Town. When Epictetus broke his leg (its reported of him) he discoursed as if his soul had been in another mans body. And when the bones of Mr. Wilson were sore vexed with the violence of his disease, he would discourse in such a composed Heavenly manner, as if he had ayled nothing.

When one or two of those who had separated from communion with him, came to see him, he did with much affection bewail their Schism, prayed that God would bring them back again, and told them that he could willingly lay down his life, so they might joyn in Communion with the other Godly people in the Town.

As Iacob when he was dying worshipped, leaning on his staff, Heb. 11. 21. So he on his dying bed was frequent in praying to and praising his God. It was but two nights before his death, though he were very sick, yet he made his bed his Pulpit, out of which he preached to some that came to see him, concerning p. 62the preciousness of the promises, bid them look the 2 Pet. 1. 4. Whereby are given unto us exceeding rich and precious promises, we are made partakers of the Divine Nature, and concerning the preciousness of Christ to Believers, desired them to turn to 1 Pet. 2. 7. VntoUnto you that believe he is precious; And oh, with what affectionate expressions would this Minister and Member of Christ Commend his head, the Pearl of great Price, and the Promises he had purchased, saying to his visitors, that one Promise was more precious then a World.

He kept a pure conscience while he lived, and through mercy had a peaceable conscience when he died. Its said of … Lampadius, that being asked on his death bed by one, whether the light did not offend him, clapping his hand on his breast, answered, Hic sat lucis, Here is light within. Mr. Wilson all along in his sickness, manifested much peaceableness and calmness of Spirit. Dr. Taylor when he came within two miles of the place of Execution leaped, saying, God be praised I am almost at home, and have not past a mile or two: and I shall be at my Fathers House.

Mr. Wilsons apprehension that Death drew near, was very comfortable to him. A Gentlewoman of his society coming to take her leave p. 63of him (being to remove out of the Town) he pleasantly said to her, What will you say good Mistriss Crisp, if I get the start of you and get to Heaven before you get to Dover. When another came to see him, he asked her what she thought of him, who answering truly Sir, I think you are not far from your Fathers House; he replied, Oh that is good news indeed, which would make one to laugh for joy. When others spake to him of his death in a mornful way, he said to them, I bless God who hath suffered me to live so long, to do him some service; and now after I have done the work appointed me, is pleased to call me away so soon. Thus in the breathings of his Faith and hope he departed this Life, and commended his Spirit into the hands of him that redeemed it, and that on the Lords Day; that day on which he was wont to work so hard, was the day of his entrance into eternal rest, to keep an endless Sabbath.

He needed no Picture or Monuments to preserve his Memory. His good works (though transient in themselves, are yet permanent in the hearts of many, and) praise him in the Gate, for as Agesitaus dying said, If I have done good, that will be my Monument: if ill, all the Statues you can make will not keep my good name alive.

p. 64He was when he died about 52. years of Age, of a strong constitution for strength, and might in a course of nature (if God had so pleased) have lived much longer. But he brought forth fruit early, and was ripe when others of his age began but to blossom, and therefore no wonder that he was gathered by God so soon. He was in his Meridian, when others were but just peeping above the Horizon, and so might well set before them. It was much desired and prayed for, that his life might have been lengthened; but his time was come, he had fought a good fight, he had finished his course, he had kept the Faith, and his Master call'd him to receive his Crown. It may be said of him, as one did of Bishop Iewel in Seneca's Phrases, Diu vixit etsi non di… fruit, He lived long and much, though he was not long on Earth; he did not wast out with the rust of idleness, but wear out with labour, yet he was a light that did not blaze out needlesly and unprofitably, but burn out for the enlightning many, and directing them in the way of life, which life he now enjoyeth, and happy are they whom their Lord when he cometh shall find so doing; of a truth I say unto you, he shall make them Rulers over all that he hath, Heb. 12. 43, 44.

p. 65Master Bright Minister of Gondhust in Kent, his Testimony concerning Mr. Wilson, in a Letter directed to a Friend in Maidstone.

SIR,

FOr Mr. Wilsons practical actings in Preaching and Life, I need say nothing, your self feelingly and experimentally, knowing more then any can relate; his natural parts were generally known to be very high, in depth of Judgement, readiness of Memory, and quickness of Apprehension; he was the best at much in a little, with clearness of Judgement, and exactness of method, that I have heard, or am ever like to hear. His Spiritual endowments for graces and gifts were answerable; in his Ministerial abilities, he was taller by the head and shoulders then most of his Brethren; his indefatigable pains answerable to his parts, wore out his Spirit, and spent him for good, to be the sooner with God; and that which p. 66to me adorned all, was the depth of his humility, in the height of his Sanctity. He had much learned that hard lesson, to receive much from God, yet to be little in his own eyes; his memory is still precious to my thoughts; the general loss is great, yours in particular greater. I shall heartily desire his indefatigable labours, and pious exemplary life, may still live in your lives, in which he dead yet speaketh, &c.

Yours in Christ, Edward Bright.