Trading Spiritualized, Part 2 – Dedication 6
Trading Spiritualized.
The Second Part.
The 17th Poſition.
THO Man be fallen through Sin, into Miſery, and under the Diſpleaſure of God, God is free and willing to tranſact, deal, and hold Communion with him.
Had the Door of Hope been ſhut upon fallen Man, as it is on fallen Angels, with what Sorrow might I write and others read? Pſal. 30.5. & 63.3.Doth not that Life of Man that is moſt worthy of the Name, conſiſt in the Favour of, and Fellowſhip with God?
Doth not the Truth of this Poſition ſhine into right (and open) Eyes?
1. Rom. 6.14. 2 Cor. 6. latter end.What is the Language of the Diſpenſation of the Grace of God, ſtiled the New Covenant, and Grace it ſelf, Grace in the Abſtract? Is it not that God will give himſelf to his People, and they give themſelves to him? O bleſſed Tranſaction!
2. Was not this Poſition exemplified, and the Truth of it evidenced, very ſoon after Man's Apoſtacy? Gen. 3.15. Vid. Tact. Sac. p. 5, 6.Even within the Doom denounced againſt the Seducer, was not Intimation given of the promiſed Seed, the true Meſſiah? And did not the Light that then dawned, V. Owenum de Theolog.by degrees break forth towards a Noon-day? Might not Man in that Catechiſm, truly called Chriſtian, (the firſt Edition of the Goſpel) run and read, that God was reconcilable to, and free to hold Converſe with him.
3. Whence alſo is it that the Lord ſtands (and hath ſo long ſtood) at the Doors of Sinners Hearts, foreign. Rev. 3.20.and that knocking, earneſtly intreating them to hear his Voice, See Rev, Sedgwick on this.and open (in a way of conſent) to him, that he may by his Spirit and Grace come into them, and they may have ſweet and ſolacing Communion with him, ſet forth under the Notion of their ſupping with him, and his ſupping with them?
4. Doth not the Experience of thouſands, and ten thouſands, put a Seal to this Point and Poſition? 1 Joh. 1.3. foreign.Do they not feel the Lord communicating Grace to them, whilſt they are exerciſing Grace on him? Have they not Meat that the World knows not of, as well as Work that it toucheth not with?
5. Can any thing more fully prove the Poſition in hand than this, that when Man had render'd himſelf uncapable of tranſacting with God in an immediate way; Joh. 14.6. 1 Joh. 2.2. & 4.8, 9.10.God the Father provided a Mediator, ſending (and ſetting forth) his Son as a Propitiation, or Propitiatory Sacrifice, in Man's Nature which he aſſumed, that ſo mutual Tranſactings might be?
And now I infer, 1ſt. That there lies before Man Matter (as of Thankfulneſs, ſo) of Wonder. Doth not Jehovah, who ſtooped low in convenanting and converſing with Adam, whilſt a Subject, condeſcend ſo far as to invite, Joh. 3.18. Rom. 5.7, 8. 1 Joh. 3.1.as well as admit him and his Poſterity to draw near to him, ſince he and they were Rebels? Did not Man at once loſe God and himſelf? and doth not God ſeek, that he may ſave him? having ſent his own Son made of a Woman, made under the Law, on that Account and Errand? O admirable!
The ſecond Inference is, It is the Concern and Duty of all who hear the joyful Sound of the Goſpel, Epheſ. 2.4. Iſa. 53.10.to ſtudy the exceeding rich Grace which in and by the New Covenant is diſplay'd; on which this weak Hand hath in Print touched? Is there not in that Covenant and Grace a Foundation laid for Man's Intercourſe with God?
1. See on this the Ark opened.Hath not this Covenant for the Spring of it his Grace, as well as free Love? Doth it not therein appear that he is Love?
2. Did not the Covenant of Redemption, or Suretiſhip (as choice Divines ſpeak and write) which was from Eternity, make way for that which is ſtiled the Covenant of Grace, in time?
3. Doth not the New Covenant run much in a promiſing Vein and Strain? Is it not ſtiled in the moſt holy Writings the Promiſe, Acts 2.39.and by good Writers a Bundle and Collection of Promiſes referring to the Life that now is, and to that which is to come?
4. Doth not God in (and by) this Covenant, Gen. 17.7.bequeath and make over to Perſons an Intereſt in himſelf, in every Perſon in the Godhead, Quantus eſt quantus.and in all the Attributes or Perfections attributed to God?
5. Doth not that which is (and in a ſound ſenſe may be) called the ſpecial receiving Condition of the Covenant, See Rev. Lorimer, Williams.to wit, The Faith of God's Elect, both by Divine Inſtitution, and in the Nature of the Means, neceſſary to apply Chriſt, and intereſt in the Benefits purchaſed by him, flow from free differencing Grace? Dare any of us gainſay him, who ſaith, Epheſ. 2.8.It is not of our ſelves, Is it not the pure Gift of God?
The third Inference. They who are Recuſants (though bearing the Proteſtant Name, and appear Excuſants) undervaluing God's Overtures and Offers to tranſact with them, are in a moſt ſinful and miſerable Eſtate. Heb. 2.3. & 10.29.How can they eſcape? what way in the World can they think of wherein they ſhould eſcape the Damnation of Hell? Who had rather trade in Trifles, Temporals, (yea baſe Luſts) than drive a Trade with (and into) Heaven?
1. Doth not God clearly ſee all the Pretenſions to, and the Vanity of them, on (and for) which they continue Slighters and Neglecters of his Grace?
2. Is he not concern'd (in point of Honour) to bear witneſs againſt ſuch Slighters? Wo, wo, wo will be to them that live by and die in this Guilt?
The fourth Inference. They who have not entred into the way of tranſacting with God, ſhould bethink themſelves, turning in to their own Hearts, and not think of delaying any longer? Should they not forthwith (and upon the inſtant) give their Hands, 2 Cor. 6.1.and ſo themſelves to the Lord? O that they waited and cry'd for Grace enabling thereunto! Yet the Day of Grace laſteth, yet the God of Grace wooeth: Modo & Modo non habent Modum.If it ſtir them ſo, that they are up and doing, will not the Lord be gracious with them? But O how dangerous are Deferrings!
The laſt Inference is, Convinced, humbled, dejected ones may take much Encouragement, and ſhould in the face of many Diſcouragements, come to and lay hold on God's Strength and Son, that they may be at Peace with him. Iſa. 27.5.Have they not his Word, (and can they deſire a better Warrant?) that on their ſo doing they ſhall be at Peace with him? Should they not in holy Duties go for, and fetch Grace from him? Is it any Preſumption in them to come to him, ſeeing they have a particular Call, and a particular Promiſe, that they ſhall be welcome? Tho they have much diſhonoured God by Sin, will not God count himſelf much honoured by their believing on him whom he hath ſent?Joh. 6.29, 30.
The 18th Poſition. That there might be Commerce and Communion between God and fallen Man, he who was (and is) God, became Man.
Was not the Word (eſſential) the Word which is God, Joh. 1.14.manifeſt in and made Fleſh? Did he not partake of the Human Nature? Tho he ceas'd not to be what he was, Non tranſmutando quod erat, &c. Boxhorn, p. 1, 2.did he not begin to be what he was not? Bleſſed be God, great Men do now undertake thoſe who call (and count) themſelves Wits, that disbelieve the Myſteries which the Scripture mentioneth, among which is that great Myſtery of Godlineſs, or Religion. Dr. Tillotſon. Dr. Stillingfleet.Tho the Godhead was not altered, was not the Manhood aſſumed into Perſonal Union with the ſecond Perſon (or ſubſiſtent) in it?1 Tim. 3.16.
Long have poor I been affected with the ſententious Saying of a late Worthy, Mr. Norton Orth. Evang.whoſe Name is precious in both Englands. God and Man met in one Perſon, that God and Man might meet in one (New) Covenant: I add, and ſo in one Communion.
That he who was the Son of God from Eternity, became the Son of Man in the fulneſs of Time, is a Fundamental in Chriſtianity, is argued at length elſewhere. Here I hint;
1. Our choice Divines own, that being Anointed reſpects Chriſt's Human Nature, tho it's ſaid, Idem, & Bucanus.the Name (or Word) Chriſt, pointeth at the Perſon, conſiſting of both Natures.
2. Is it not intimated in the very firſt Edition of the Covenant of Grace, that the Serpent's Head, or Power, Gen. 3.15.was to be bruiſed by the Seed of the Woman? Tho the ſecondary Seed (or Generation of the Faithful) are included as ſharing in the Conqueſt, as to the Benefit of it. No doubt, the primary Seed (to wit, Semen primarium.Chriſt) is primarily intended as the Conqueror. And doth not he who delivereth out of Satan's Hands by way of Power, Heb. 10.20, 21.deliver out of the Hands of his Father's Juſtice by way of Price? and ſo make way that God who is offended, and Man who hath offended, may converſe together?
That the Incarnation of the Son of God conduced to reſtore lapſed ruined Man, as to Reconciliation, ſo to Communion with God, is evident.
Is there not ſuch a vaſt (even infinite) diſtance between the All-glorious Creator, and the Apoſtatized Creature, that Man could not think of ſuch a thing as an immediate Acceſs and Addreſs to God? Had not God made a low ſtoop to Man, 1 Tim. 2.5.and ſo drawn nigh to him, how can we think that he ſhould have adventured to draw nigh to God?
I ask, 1. Is it not upon God's matching into (and with) our Nature, that he deals in a familiar, friendly way with our Perſons? See Mr. Jeanes his Mixture.Do not deep Divines ſay, that the ſubſtantial Mediation muſt be preſuppoſed, as the Ground of the actual Mediation?
2. Quod non aſſumſit, non redemit.If the Human Nature had not been aſſumed, had we who partake of it been redeemed?
3. Is not the Human Nature in Chriſt the great Channel through which, as the Divine Nature is the firſt Fountain from which, Grace floweth, and is communicated to Chriſtians?
And ſo I infer, 1. That thoſe Tenents are erroneous, Gal. 4.4.and carry much of danger in them, which caſt any Reflection on the Truth and Worth of Chriſt's Human Nature. See Dr. Uſher's Immanuel.Was not the Son of God made of, and conceived in a Woman? Was not part of her Subſtance ſanctified, that it might be the holy Thing united to the ſecond Perſon in the Trinity?
The ſecond Inference is, The Wonders ſhew'd in God's Word do far and far tranſcend thoſe called the Wonders of the World. Iſa. 9.6.Is not Wonderful one of Chriſt's Royal Titles, and that as he is a Son given and a Child born to and for us? Was it not admirable, that his Father ſhould prepare for him a Body? That he who is Infinite ſhould take on him the Human Nature that is Finite; Rom. 8.3. See the Engl. Annotat.and that after Man was fallen, and ſo appear, tho not in ſinful Fleſh, yet in true Fleſh, and in the likeneſs of ſinful Fleſh? Yea, that he ſhould take on him as the Nature of Man, ſo the State of Infancy, and the natural Infirmities thereof? Did not the holy Spirit wonderfully tie the Knot between the Divine Perſon and Human Nature, See excellent Uſher.in the Bride-Chamber of the Virgin's Womb?
The third Inference. Every Man and Woman to whom the Goſpel comes will be found inexcuſable, who ſlighteth the Lord Jeſus Chriſt, and lives without him, and that Communion with his Father, Acts 4.12.that is to be had in and through him.
Alas! 1. Some are Neglecters of, or negligent in the management of holy Duties and Ordinances. Are they not as Atheiſts, or Formaliſts?
2. Not a few by living in Worldly, Fleſhly, or Deviliſh Luſts, diſhonour the Human Nature, which God hath highly honoured.
Will not Chriſt in his Human Nature ſit as Judg, Act. 17.31.and condemn thoſe that die in this Guilt? Will they not be thought worthy of the ſoreſt Puniſhment?
The fourth Inference. It's the great Duty of Chriſtians in the management of all Duties (that they may maintain Communion with God in them) to eye and employ the Lord Jeſus Chriſt. Is he not a Non-ſuch? Is any other Perſon God-man, Immanuel? Is it not through him, Joh. 14.6.and him alone, that God comes to Man, and Man goes to God?
The fifth Inference. Drooping Chriſtians ſhould lift up their Heads and Hearts. Heb. 2.15. & 4.15. Manet Compaſſio, &c.Is not God become Man, and will he not be tender of Man? From him that is Man is received Satisfaction, that Man may receive Salvation.
The laſt Inference is. They who are in Heaven, do and well may admire the Lord Chriſt. Is not he in their Nature gone to Heaven, Heb. 10.20 Joh. 14.2.and that in the Nature of a Fore-runner, to make a way for them thither; and of an Harbinger, to take up Rooms for them there?
The 19th Poſition. That there might be Communion between God and fallen Man, the Son of God, who became Man, became the Mediator between God and Man.
Tho I cannot ſwear to all that a learned Writer hath ſaid, Dr. Scot, vol. 2.I heartily approve of his ſtiling the Doctrine of our Saviour's Mediation, a Fundamental Principle of Chriſtian Duty; this Mediation being alſo the great Channel for Conveyance of ſaving Mercy.
1. Heb. 12. ult.Had Man been to have looked immediately on a provoked God, would he not have appear'd as a conſuming Fire?
2. Had the Lord look'd on and dealt with Man as in Filth, and under Guilt, had not his fierce Wrath fallen on him?
3. Is not Chriſt, as Mediator, Joh. 14.6.the way from and to his Father?
If Enquiry be, What's implied in Chriſt's being a Mediator?
I anſwer; 1. If reſpect be had to the Greek Word ſo rendred, foreign. 1 Tim. 2.5.it is (as ſome think) a word peculiar to the Scriptures, and is ſaid to ſignify a Middler, or middle Perſon, a Perſon that ſteps into and ſtands in the middle betwixt two or more that are at Variance, See Dr. Collings and Leigh Crit. Sac.in order to agreeing them.
2. We are hereby led to conſider the Perſon under Conſideration, Jeſus Chriſt, who partaking of the Nature of both, is equally diſtant from and drawing near to God and Man, deals with God for Man, and with Man from God, having as motion'd, ſo made Peace between them. And accordingly, great Men ſpeak of him as a Dayſman, Epheſ. 2.13, 14.that lays his Hand both on God and Man, that he may procure the Reconciliation of God to Man by his Merit, and of Man to God by his Spirit.
Is not Chriſt rightly counted the true and full Mediator for Men of all Nations, as Moſes is ſtiled typical (and in part) Mediator for one Nation?
Of his three Offices (or the three Branches of his Mediatorial Office) e're long I may touch. Here I hint,
More learned Men than one have compared the Mediation of Chriſt to the Ladder, Dr. Horton, &c.whereof Jacob had the Viſion. And are not five middle (or intermediate) Steps or Rounds written on it?
1. See Rev. Brynſley on this.Is not Chriſt as an Arbitrator or Umpire, that undertakes to take up the Difference?
2. Is he not an Interceſſor, or Sollicitor, that deals with both ſides in order to that end?
3. Is he not a Surety that anſwereth for the Wrongs done to his Father by his Children?Heb. 7.22.
4. Is he not an Advocate, 1 Joh. 2.2.that pleads his Satisfaction for them?
5. Is he not a Ruler, Idem.that gives as Laws, ſo Hearts to obey them?
The two firſt point at his Prophetick, the two following at his Prieſtly, and the laſt at his Kingly Office.
And now I infer, 1. That Sin made a wide Breach between God and Man. Iſa. 59.2.Can any lower or other Mediator, ſave he that is God-Man, make it up?
Inf. 2. One Difference between the Covenant with Man when fallen, and Man in his firſt Eſtate, is evident; the former being a Covenant of *Amicitiae.Friendſhip was made with Man immediately, See acute Blake.the latter being a Covenant of Reconciliation, is made through a Mediator.
Inf. 3. No Man or Woman ſhould think of tranſacting with God in an immediate way, nor dare to go to the Father not having the Son in his Arms. Luther.Was not the great Reformer afraid to think of an abſolute God, or of God out of Chriſt?
Inf. 4. It is the Concern of all who are for trading in Spirituals, to ſtudy the Mediator. When they look upon him as God, he appears,
1. Able to bear the Wrath of his Father off from them.
2. To ſatisfy the Juſtice of his Father in behalf of them.
3. To appear and plead in his Preſence for them.
4. To obtain Grace for: And,
5. To apply Grace to them. And when they look on him as Man, may they not ſee, (1.) His Fitneſs to ſuffer for Man: And, (2.) His Readineſs to pity Man: (3.) His entring and taking poſſeſſion of Glory in Man's Nature? And when they ſee him as Immanuel, as having his Human Nature united to his Divine Perſon, they may ſee flowing from this Union that which is called the Communion, foreign.or Communication of Properties: 1 Jo. 3.16.ſo that his Godhead gave Virtue or Value to the Sufferings of his Manhood. Is it not ſaid, that God (he that is God) laid down his Life?
Inf. 5. Perſons ſhould try whether they be intereſted in this Mediator.
1. Do they feel, as their preſſing Burden, the Breach Sin has made?
2. Do they deſpair of having it made up ſave by him?
3. Do they comply with his Propoſals?
4. Do they employ him to the Father? Be it known, this Mediator is precious, for there is but one!
Laſt Inference. Drooping Souls when they find themſelves willing to receive Chriſt, 1 Pet. 2.7.ſhould take the Comfort that belongs to them. Heb. 7.27.Is not this Mediator able and willing to ſave 'em to the uttermoſt?
The 20th Poſition. That there might be Commerce and Communion between God and fallen Man, he who is God-Man, as Mediator did and doth exerciſe the three Offices (or threefold Office) of Prieſt, Prophet, and King.
In that famous Pſalm which carrieth the Title of David's Creed, Pſal. 110. Symbolum Davidicum. See the excellent Dr. Reynolds on it.as the Lord Chriſt in (and by) that choice Servant of his, exerted his Prophetical Office, his Kingdom and Prieſthood are expreſly propheſied of.
Who that owneth true Chriſtianity, queſtioneth the Truth of the Poſition now before us? May its Uſefulneſs be touched on in ſome Inferences.
Applicat. 1. I infer, That it is the near Concern of all who are for managing the ſpiritual Trade, to meditate on the ſeveral Offices of Chriſt, See Gilleſpy's Ark, the ſecond Part.viewing (and weighing) their exact Sutableneſs to the beſt Good of Man, and their ſweet Concurrence with one another, with reſpect to that, and the Glory of God.
Was he not a Prieſt to God, Heb. 5.1.that he might be a more meet Prophet to, and Prince over Men?
1. Is he not as a Prophet made unto his People Wiſdom? 1 Cor. 1.30.Is he not as a Prieſt made unto them Righteouſneſs? Is he not as a King made unto them Sanctification and Redemption?
2. Vid. Ameſii Medullam. And Norton Orthod. Evang.Doth not his Prophetick Office tend to heal their Ignorance of God? Doth not his Prieſtly Office conduce to heal their Eſtrangment from him? Doth not his Kingly Office further the taking away of their Enmity againſt him?
3. Doth not he as a Prophet make known the beſt things? Doth not he as a Prieſt make Purchaſe thereof? Doth not he as a King make over thoſe things?
4. Are there not in his Prieſthood Evidences of his Love? Are there not in his Prophecy Evidences of his Skill? Are there not in his Government Evidences of his Power?
5. Doth he not as a Prophet enlighten his Peoples Minds? Doth he not as a Prieſt engage their Affections? Doth he not as a King incline, bow, and rule their Wills?
Again; As to the ſecond Particular pointed at, to wit, The Harmony of Chriſt's Offices, and their concurring with one another in this grand Caſe and Cauſe, I ask the following Queſtions.
1ſt. Doth not the Prieſthood of Chriſt render him more meet to diſcharge his Prophetick and Kingly Offices?See Gilleſpy further.
1. Will not he, who as a Prieſt hath dearly bought his People, plainly and familiarly, as well as fully, teach them?
2. Will not he, that as a Prieſt hath paid ſo great a Price for them, mildly, and with a Golden (or rather gracious) Scepter ſway them?
2dly. Are not the Prieſtly and Kingly Offices of Chriſt promoted by his being a Prophet?
1. Doth not this Prophet acquaint Perſons with the Compleatneſs of his Satisfaction and Interceſſion?
2. Doth not this Prophet lead them into the Knowledg of him as a King, and of his Laws and Ways?
3dly. Doth not Chriſt's Kingly Office carry him through the Exerciſe of his Prophecy and Prieſthood?
1. Doth not Chriſt his being a King, a Royal Martyr and Purchaſer, render his Sufferings more valuable?
2. Doth not Chriſt's being a King put Virtue into his preaching? ſo that he who gives out Laws, gives in Strength to obey them.
Inf. 2. Their Caſe is ſinful, and ſo ſad, who are willingly ignorant of Chriſt, Chriſtum ſi neſcis, &c. Joh. 17.3. Phil. 3.8. 2 Theſſ. 1.7, 8, 9.or reſt without a diſtinct, affectionate Knowledg of his Perſon and Offices: What will other Knowledg avail if Chriſt be not known? Is not this the Excellency of Knowledg? Doth not Ignorance herein expoſe to Vengeance?
Laſt Inference is, They who would give (and have) an Evidence, that their Trading is into (and in) Heaven, ſhould make much uſe of Jeſus Chriſt, Heb. 4.15, 16. Deut. 18.15. 2 Cor. 8.5.and of every one of his Offices. Should they not daily employ this Prieſt, learn of this Prophet, and ſubmit to this King?
A touch on every one of theſe is to follow.
The 21ſt Poſition. That there might be Communion between God and fallen Man, the Lord Jeſus Chriſt who became a Mediator in the caſe, engaged in the Office of a Prieſt.
1. Pſal. 110.4, 5. Heb. 7.1, 5. & 4.12, 14. & 3.1.Was he not in Scripture-Prophecies ſpoke of as ſuch?
2. Is he not in Scripture-Hiſtory written of as ſuch? Yea,
3. Hath he not the Title of an Apoſtle, the higheſt Church-Officer under the New Teſtament; and of the High-Prieſt, to whom ſome Employs were peculiar under the Law?
That this Prieſt procureth (yea promoteth) Communion between God and Man, cannot well be queſtioned.
1. Is it not rightly ſaid, That the Heart of Chriſt's Mediation lieth in his Prieſtly Office and the Exerciſe thereof?So ſolid Strong.
For, 2. Doth he not as a Prieſt deal with God for Man, Heb. 5.1.that he may as a Prophet and King deal with Man from God?
That this may be more evidenced, we will look at the Reſemblance that lies between Chriſt and the High-Prieſt, Heb. 5.6.5.1.that was Aaronical, and glance at the higher Prieſthood of Melchizedec, 7.26.of whoſe Order he was, by whom he was much typified.
As to the former: Was he not, (1.) Taken from among Men? (2.) 1.9.9.12.Unblemiſhed? (3.) Called to his Office? (4.) Anointed? (5.) Richly arrayed? (6.) Bearing the Names of the People on his Breaſt? (7.) Entering into the Holy of Holies? Surely he who hath all theſe Qualifications, is qualified to deal betwixt his Father and his Children?
As to the latter; The Compariſon is carried further than I deſign. Who hint, Vid. Outramum de Sacrificiis.(1.) That Melchizedec's Prieſthood did not paſs from one to another: And is not that of Chriſt unchangeable? (2.) Melchizedec gave Abraham his Bleſſing; and doth not Chriſt bleſs Abraham's Children ſo as none elſe can do?
And now I infer, 1. That they are forſakers of their own Mercy, in being Slighters of the Heavenly Trade, who make not good uſe of Chriſt's Prieſtly Office; into which Count (alas!) great numbers fall. Is not this their caſe?
1. Who are for continuing in a courſe of Sin. Pſal. 66.18If Perſons regard Iniquity in their Hearts, will God the Son preſent, or his Father accept their Prayers?
2. Who live in the wilful and ordinary neglect of known Duties. Were not they to bring their Sacrifices to the Prieſts, Mat. 8.4.that would have them preſented to God?
3. Who rely on any other Mediation; as if any one, 1 Tim. 2.5.ſave this High Prieſt, could avail, as to ſatisfying Divine Juſtice, and meriting Divine Favour.
4. Who refuſe Chriſt's other Offices. Will he ſave thoſe who will not be taught and ruled by him?
O that Perſons conſidered, that if they ſlight Chriſt's Love, they ſhall (to their Sorrow) fall under his Power! and what will be the end of thoſe that abuſe the Prieſthood of Chriſt, to the encouraging of their Sin?
Infer. See Rev. Flavel's Vind. vind. p. 183.2. It is our great Concern to meditate on the Greatneſs of our great High Prieſt. What were the higheſt Prieſts under the Law to him?
1. Is not he God-Man? 2. Had he any Moral Blemiſh at all? 3. Was not his Call to Office extraordinary? 4. Was not his Anointing by the Holy Ghoſt? 5. Is he not clothed with Glory? 6. Are not his People in his Heart? 7. Is he not entered the Heaven of Heavens?
I add, 1. He is but one, Heb. 7.9. Chapters.and he is for ever.
2. He made his own Blood and Soul an Offering.
Inf. 3. They may hear the moſt High, ſaying to them, Comfort ye, comfort ye, Iſa. 40.1.who have received (and do give) themſelves to this great High-Prieſt.
1. Tho they meet with many, and thoſe ſore Sufferings.
2. Tho they complain of the Remains (and Rebellings) of Sin. Upon their employing this High-Prieſt, they ſhall by ſweet Experience find;
(1.) That as he hath not *See Mr. Durant. 1 Joh. 2.1.put off his Prieſtly Garments, he is pleading on their behalf.
(2.) That his pleading being grounded on his dying, it is (and will be) prevalent: Him the Father heareth, Joh. 11.42and accepteth always.
The 22d Poſition. That there might be Commerce and Communion between God and fallen Man, he who aſſumed Man's Nature, was in that Nature ſacrificed on Man's behalf.
1. That Chriſt, our Paſſover, being to us in truth what the Paſſover was in Type, was ſacrificed for us, 1 Cor. 5.8.is written as with a Sun-beam.
2. That the new and living way to the Holy of Holies (or Heaven) whereof the holieſt place in the Temple was a Figure, Heb. 10.19, 20.was open'd and conſecrated by the Blood of Jeſus, who was made a Sacrifice; he that runs may read.
I am aware, that a late learned Writer made account that Chriſt, Dr. Nicholſon on the Catech. p. 42.as exerciſing his Prieſtly Office, put forth four Acts, to wit, Offering, Praying, Atoning, and Bleſſing. Poor I, who am much in the Road, reduce his Acts, as a Prieſt, to two Heads: See the excellent Reynolds on Pſal. 110. p. 424, &c.Interceſſion, whereof (if God will) e're long: And Oblation, concerning which I ſhall offer ſome Hints here.
In the Creed, called the Apoſtles, we all profeſs that Chriſt died; and it is a great Point and part of our Belief, that he died as a Sacrifice. Was there not in Chriſt's Death all that was eſſential to a Sacrifice?Eph. 5.2.
1. Was he not (as were the Sacrifices) ſet forth by Divine Order?
2. Vid. Owenum & Outramum de Sacrificiis. And Rev. Hurſt.Was he not (as they were) offered to his Father?
3. Was not his Soul, together with his Body, made an Offering?
4. Was not he (as they were) ſlain, and (ſo far) deſtroyed?
5. As in the offering of Sacrifices, there was ſomething peculiar to a Prieſt: Rom. 3.25. Heb. 10.14Was there not this Specialty in this great Sacrifice? Iſa. 53.10. See the Funeral of the Maſs.This great High-Prieſt did offer himſelf as Man, and through his being God, the Sacrifice of his Manhood was rendred of infinite Value.
In infer, 1. That all that are for trading into Heaven, and with the God of Heaven, ſhould muſe on, that they may make uſe of Chriſt as a Sacrifice. Sacrifices, as mentioned in the Old Teſtament, are diſtinguiſhed as followeth.
1. There were thoſe ſtiled Patriarchal; So worthy Mr. Waterhouſe.ſuch as were uſed from the time of Adam to that of Moſes.
2. Judaical ones; ſuch as God, Gen. 4.4. Levit. 1.by Moſes, did appoint, and the People of Iſrael obſerved.
3. Evangelical ones; 1 Pet. 2.5. Heb. 13.16into which Count fall Exerciſes of Piety and Charity.
The Sacrifices of the two former ſorts were Types of Chriſt, and thoſe of the third ſort are tendred through Chriſt the great Expiatory, Propitiatory and Atoning Sacrifice. That Chriſt's Sacrifice was ſuch, is argued;
1. Rom. 3.25 See acute Trueman on this.Doth not his being called a Propitiation, which implieth Satisfaction, and includeth Atonement, denote this?
2. Is it not expreſly ſaid, that he putteth and purgeth away Sins by the Sacrifice of himſelf?Heb. 1.3.
3. Was he not made Sin (that is, 2 Cor. 5.20, 21.a Sin-Offering) for the removal of the Guilt of Sin from thoſe that are his?
4. See the eminent Dr. Stillingfl. againſt Crellius.Did not the great Sacrifices that were Types of him, particularly the ſlain Goat, ſignify this?
(1.) Were they not uſed with reſpect to Sin?
(2.) Levit. 1.4.Were they not ſubſtituted on behalf of Sinners?
When they who brought them laid their Hands on their Heads, So Rev. Maynard.did they not thereby confeſs their Deſert of Death, and declare the Tranſlation of the Puniſhment?
Inf. 2. It is our great Concern (as great as that of our precious Souls) to make good uſe of his Sacrifice.
And ſo, 1. To grieve for and under the Burden and Body of Sin, Heb. 10.4, 5, 6, 7, 8.which cannot be taken away ſave by it.
2. To own that they might moſt juſtly have been made Sacrifices to Divine Wrath and Juſtice.Pſal. 130.3
3. To apply this great Sacrifice, to and for the great Ends for which it was offered.
4. Gal. 2.20.To give up their Luſts to be ſacrificed through Virtue thence derived.
God forbid that any ſhould uſe (and ſo abuſe) this Sacrifice as a Shelter for their other Sins, or for their Slothfulneſs in the Buſineſs of Religion: Exod. 21.14.Would any Sacrifice of old exempt ſome Offenders from Death? Were the Cities of Refuge provided for wilful Murderers?
Laſt Inference. They who are hearty and diligent in driving the ſpiritual Trade (notwithſtanding their ſhort Fallings) ſhould be of good chear. When the Formality and Self-Righteouſneſs of others will not, Rom. 8.33, 34.this great Sacrifice will ſet them to rights in the Eye of God's Law and Juſtice.
The 23d Poſition. The Commerce and Communion between God and Man, is no little furthered by the Interceſſion of Chriſt, who is God-man.
One of our late great Men hath well ſaid, Renowned Baxter.That the Interceſſion of Chriſt is a great Article of the Chriſtian Faith; whoſe Words do alſo imply, that Chriſtian Practice (or the ſpiritual Trade) is thereby promoted.
1. Do we not owe thereunto the Application that is made of Pardon, Joh. 14.16.Power and Peace to us; yea and the Effuſion of the Spirit on us?
2. Rev. 8.3, 4.Would any of our Prayers (or other Services) aſcend before the Throne of God, were not Incenſe, or Interceſſion joined to them?
Concerning the Interceſſion of Chriſt, be it remarked:
1. 1 Joh. 2.1. Joh. 14.16.The Act of Interceſſion (and accordingly the Greek word tranſlated Advocate, or Paraclete) is applied both to the ſecond and third Perſon in the Godhead, whereon the Gloſſes of the Godlylearned deſerve weighing.
(1.) Interceſſion is aſcribed to the Spirit, Dr. Arrowſmith in a Sermon.as an Adviſer; to Chriſt, as Mediator.
(2.) The Spirit makes Interceſſion in us, Chriſt intercedeth for us.
(3.) Rom. 8.26.The holy Spirit helpeth our Infirmities, Heb. 7.24.and directs us in drawing up our Requeſts on Earth; See acute Hollingworth.the Lord Jeſus preferreth them, and pleads our Cauſe in Heaven.
So that, as a learned Man notes, being an Advocate is attributed to the holy Spirit in a figurative Senſe; but to be our proper Advocate interceding with the Father on our behalf, Dr. Outramus.is peculiar to Chriſt.
Again; The Advocateſhip and Interceſſion of Chriſt is founded on his having been a Propitiation, 1 Joh. 2.1, 2.or Satisfactory Sufferer.
One to whom I even now referred, writes of and for Chriſt's offering himſelf as a Sacrifice for our Sins in the Celeſtial Sanctuary, into which he is entred; but, he withal owneth, that what he calleth an Oblation, doth not really differ from what we (with Scripture) call Interceſſion, or his preſenting himſelf as one that was ſlain, and his Blood and Offering as meritorious before his Father.
I rejoice, that the worthy Perſon expreſſeth his diſlike of the Followers of Socinus, who yet expreſs their Minds in ſome of his words: He holdeth (what they deny) that the Lord Jeſus ſuffer'd in our ſtead, Noſtro loco.and doth commend and render acceptable, as our Perſons, ſo our Performances.
There is a Scripture which the Socinians pervert, to wit that that ſaith, Heb. 8.4.If Chriſt was on Earth, he ſhould not be a Prieſt; arguing from hence againſt the Current of other Scriptures, that in his Death he offer'd not a Satisfactory Sacrifice.
1. May not the words on the Earth, Vid. Arnoldum & Vindic. Evang.be conſtrued thus, of an Earthly Quality and Condition?
2. Did being on Earth incapacitate for the Legal Prieſthood?
3. Is not this the Intendment of the Holy Ghoſt, that if Chriſt had been only ſuch a Temporal Prieſt as the Jewiſh ones were, and had not ſhed ſuch precious Blood, as that he could (and did) take the Virtue and Merit of it into Heaven, and there preſent it, he had not been ſo compleat a Prieſt as he is?
I infer, 1. That their Caſe is deplorable who ſet light by Chriſt's Interceſſion, and conſequently neglect ſpiritual Traffick. And,
(1.) Can they plead, Not guilty, Rev. 8.3, 4.who either do not uſe ſolemn Prayer in their Houſes and Cloſets, or do not uſe it in a ſpiritual way? Is it not with (and not without) the Prayers of Saints that Incenſe aſcendeth?
(2.) Is it not Guilt on them who are the Men and Women of the World, of a Worldly Complexion and Diſpoſition? Doth Chriſt pray for ſuch as for thoſe that are given him? Joh. 17.9.Can they with Comfort look to Heaven, or for ſpecial Communications of Grace from Heaven, by whom Chriſt's Interceſſion is ſo undervalued?
Inf. 2. They who groaning under the Burden and Body of Sin, and breathing after ſanctifying Grace, trade into Heaven, are furniſhed with Matter and Ground of Encouragement.
1. Doth not their Advocate throughly underſtand their Caſe, Joh. 2. ult.Condition and Concerns?
2. Heb. 2.17. & 4.15.Is he not moſt compaſſionate and tender of them?
3. Is he not with the Father? always ready to preſent and plead their Cauſe in Heaven?1 Joh. 2.2.
4. Hath he not that Intereſt in his Father which will render his pleading as effectual as continual?
5. Joh. 11.42. Luk. 22.32Is he not an Advocate for every one that is penitent, as if he had but one to plead for?
O that they who are thus privileged did better underſtand and improve this Privilege!
The 24th Poſition. Through the Exerciſe of Chriſt's Prophetick Office, Commerce and Communion between God and Man is much furthered.
1. Doth not Chriſt as a Prophet ſhow, that as ſuch Communion may be held, ſo the true and ready way of holding it?
2. Epheſ. 2.8. Illuminati Beneficio & Doctrinâ Chriſti.Doth not Chriſt as a Prophet teach People, and lead them into, and in that way? Are we not in and by the holy Scriptures, and choice Catechiſms grounded thereon, acquainted with his Teaching?
That it is, 1. Outward, Joh. 5.39.to the Ear and Eye, revealed to Perſons.
2. Eph. 1.17.Inward, to the Heart, by the holy Spirit, who revealeth Chriſt in Perſons, Joh. 16.13.leading them into Truth, ſhewing its Glory and Tendency. On theſe Particulars, particular Hints may follow.
Here I infer, 1. That all thoſe who are for trading with (and into) Heaven, are nearly concern'd well to ſtudy (and much to improve) the Prophetick Office of Jeſus Chriſt.
That they who need Help in this noble Study may not want it, See Wilſon's Dictionary.be it conſidered, the word Prophet is not always taken in one ſenſe.
1. Tit. 1.12.Are not Heathen Poets ſpoken of as Prophets?
2. 1 Sam. 10.5. compar'd with 19.20. Hoornbeck de Indep. p. 285.Is not Propheſying by Chriſtians conſtrued concerning Singing?
3. Hath not a *Dr. Stillingfleet's Orig. Sac.learned Writer written, that the proper Notion of a Prophet is not a Fore-ſeeer, or Fore-teller of ſuch future things as we call Contingencies; but having in an immediate way Divine Revelation?
4. Are there not directing as well as predicting Prophets?
5. Mat. 10.41Do not ſome hold, that the Prophets ſet before Evangeliſts, and next after Apoſtles, Eph. 4.11.had a peculiar Gift for interpreting Scripture-Prophecies?
Clear it is, that both as to fore-telling, and as to inſtructing, Chriſt is a Noneſuch.
1. Deut. 18.15. Iſa. 7.14.If we regard his Perſon, Was any other Prophet the begotten Son of God?
2. As to Revelations made and given by him, See Roobotham. Heb. 1.1, 2. Joh. 1.8. See Dr. Arrowſmith on it. Dr. Owen on Heb. p. 17, 18.did he not excel?
(1.) Did not he being in his Father's Boſom, know his Secrets?
(2.) Had not he a full Comprehenſion of all the Revelations that he had?
(3.) Did not the Spirit of Prophecy ſo reſt on him, that he was always ready to receive Revelations?
Again; As to his teaching others, what Prophet came near him?
1. Are they able to teach further than he enableth them?
2. When they are teaching, Iſa. 48.17.is it not he that teacheth to profit?
3. Whereas they own their Weakneſs, he teacheth with all Power.Rev. 3.7.
4. Are the beſt Teachers any more than his Uſhers?
5. When they teach a little in much time, he teacheth much in a moment.
For, 6. Their Teachings take place according to the Hearers Light; Joh. 1.9.he gives (and is) Light.
And now I hint, 1ſt. That this Office and Employ of Chriſt ſhould be improved. Acts 3.22.Him ſhould all that call themſelves his, hear in the beſt manner.
(1.) Humbly, Heb. 5.11, 12. & 4.2.bewailing their being hard Learners, and having learn'd ſo little.
(2.) Hungringly, that they may hear his Voice, and not only that of his Miniſters.
(3.) Believingly, acting Faith on his Merit, that his Spirit may teach them.
(4.) Honeſtly, reſolving (through Grace) to be as Hearers, ſo withal Lovers, Learners, and Livers in and after hearing.
(5.) Reverentially, bearing in Mind, that he who is their Prophet, Pſal. 45.11is the Prince of Princes.
Infer. 2. We are to keep a due (and ſo great) diſtance from the Tents of Socinus and his Followers.
1. See Polhill's Anſw. p. 573.Do not they deny that inward Illumination or Teaching of Chriſt, which hath the Preheminence?
2. Vid. Arnoldum, p. 344.Do not they affirm, that he was taken up from Earth to Heaven, that he might there learn the Mind of God?
3. 1 Cor. 2.12.Do they not confine his Teaching to New-Teſtament-Times? Whereas we with (and from) holy Writ, are taught, See Dr. Owen's Vindic. p. 376, &c. 1 Pet. 1.11that tho his Human Nature received Light, he who Aſſumed it, is (as is his Father) Light it ſelf; and the Prophets as well as the Apoſtles had their Light from him.
Inf. 3. They are to be pitied (O that they did pity themſelves!) who have it not in deſign to honour and learn of Chriſt as the Prophet. Doth he not ſtand at their Doors, Acts 3.21. Rev. 3.20.and that knocking, whilſt ſome ſhut the outward Door of the Ear on him, not affording him an hearing, and others will afford him no more? Doth not their wilful Impenitency in inward (if not open) Sins, keep the inner Door of the Heart ſhut on him? How will they anſwer this at the great Day?
The laſt Inference. Humble Chriſtians who complain of their leſs Skill in the Heavenly Trade, ſhould take Comfort. Hath not the beſt of Teachers undertaken to be their Teacher? Iſa. 48.17.Should they not wait that he would be ſo?
The 25th Poſition. The holy Scriptures given out by the Church's great Prophet, do much promote the Converſe and Communion between God and Man.
1. foreign Rom. 3.1. 1 Kings 6.5-31.Are not the Scriptures the written Oracles of God, as diſtinguiſhed from the Oracle which is ſtiled vocal? Were the Heathen Oracles fit to be named the ſame day with theſe Divine Ones?
(1.) Are not theſe Oracles declarative as of Man's Duty, ſo of God's Love? May not they who conſult with them (and with God in them) clearly find the former ſet before them in the Law, Vid. Armillam Catech. Et Wilkinſonii Concionem ad Clerum.and the latter diſplayed in and by the Goſpel?
(2.) Are not theſe Oracles predictive of Man's Deſtiny, as well as directive as to his Duty? May not Perſons who lay the Scriptures and their Hearts (or State) together, Joh. 5.39.have a Proſpect how it ſhall be and go with them for ever?
Again; Are not the Scriptures the choice Privilege of Perſons? Among the Advantages of the Jews of old, Rom. 3.1.is not this counted the chief?
1. Pſal. 119.105. Joh. 6.63, 65.Are not the Scriptures a Light both to their Eyes and Feet?
2. Are they not of an enlivening (as Well as enlightening) Nature?
3. Rom. 15.4. Scripturae tuae deliciae meae, ſaid an Antient.Are they not as Cordials for chearing, as well as Food for nouriſhing?
I infer, 1. That it is incumbent on all Chriſtians, to be well ſettled and ſatiſfied, that the Scriptures are from the Inſpiration of God, and ſo of the higheſt Authority. Can they who call this in queſtion (tho they call themſelves Deiſts) through them converſe with God?
Many have excellently, See ingenious Mr. Lee.and one lately enlarged on this Subject.
Poor I hint: The Scriptures carry Divine Characters and Impreſſions ſavouring ſweetly and ſtrongly of the holy Spirit. Is not his Teſtimony to the Goſpel, which (as to us) is the Marrow of the Scripture? See Renowned Baxter paſſim.(1.) Antecedent, by Prophecy. (2.) Concomitant, by Miracles. (3.) Subſequent, by Succeſs. May I not add, There is a Witneſs ſtiled Conſtitutive? Se & alia manifeſtat.Doth not this Light ſhew and diſcover it ſelf,
1. In its ſublime Doctrines, only revealed in (and by) them?
2. Vid. Tact. Sac.In its Majeſtick Stile? Doth no… Power accompany Plainneſs?
3. 1 Tim. 3.16. Heb. 4.12.In its pure Scope and Drift, which is to abaſe Man, and to exalt God i… Chriſt?
4. In its exact Harmony, there being a real Agreement where there is a ſeeming Difference?
Would bad Men or Angels have diſcovered things ſo holy? Could good Men or Angels have diſcovered things ſo high as abound therein?
Inf. 2. It is greatly to be wiſhed that they who by the Teſtimony of the Church were induced to think well of the Scriptures, and by Arguments fetch'd out of it are convinc'd, that it is from Heaven, did wait for that Witneſs of the Spirit which is ſtiled effective. Effectivum, Dr. Arrowſmith.O that the Eyes of our Underſtandings were cleared to ſee together with the Truth the Glory of Scriptures! O that our Wills were perſwaded to be ruled and governed by them! What is a meer notional or traditional to a pure ſpiritual and effectual Knowledg of them?
Inf. 3. They who cry ſo loud, To Rome, To Rome, give us cauſe to cry againſt their Way and Tenets. Do they not reflect foully on Chriſt's Prophetick Office, and that as exerciſed in giving out the holy Scriptures?
Do they not charge them, 1. See even the Repreſenter himſelf.With Obſcurity and Darkneſs? as if God had wrote and ſent a Letter from Heaven to Earth, which the Saints on Earth cannot read and underſtand without the Pope's Spectacles.
2. With Imperfection and Defectiveneſs? as if they were not a Rule, but needed the Eek of their Traditions in order to acquainting Perſons with Neceſſaries to Salvation.
Inf. 4. They are in a very ill caſe who cannot trade into Heaven, through the ſmall Eſteem they have, and the little or no uſe they make of the holy Scriptures. Some do ſcarce read, others do not ſearch them. How few (comparatively) are conducted by them to leave every Sin, to follow the Lord in all Services, and in cloſe of all to exalt Chriſt?
Will they not be judged at the laſt day by the Words which they ſlight in this?Joh. 12.48
Laſt Inference. Comfort falls to their ſhare, who in order to the driving of the Heavenly Trade, Pſal. 119.24.make the Scriptures (or Counſels of God) their Counſellors *Dr. Hammond. 1 Joh. 2.20, 27., or the Men of their Counſels.
1. Have they not an Unction from the Holy One which ſhall abide?
2. Shall they not have Comfort when it will be moſt comfortable?Rom. 15.4.
The 26th Poſition. The Commerce and Communion between God and Man, is much furthered through the inward Teachings of God's Spirit, whom Chriſt as a Prophet employeth.
1. Doth not God evidence his Kindneſs to Men, in that through Chriſt he communicateth to them the Spirit of Revelation? Doth not the Apoſtle beg this as a choice Boon for the Epheſians?Eph. 1.17.
2. Are not Men by the Spirit, as a Revealer and Teacher, & 5.8, 9.fitted to exerciſe Graces on the Lord, and to derive Grace from him?
That Chriſt teacheth Chriſtians by his Spirit is evident. 1 Joh. 2.20, 27. Vid. Polum ad locum.Is not this the Interpretation of that Phraſe, their having an Unction (or Anointing) from the holy One? Is not the holy Spirit compared to Oil? Doth not the word Chriſtians point at Anointed Ones?
I grant, the Oil of Chriſt's Grace and Spirit hath a ſoftning and cheering Virtue: Exod. 25.6.But as Oil was uſed for Light in the Sanctuary of old, the Unction which the Apoſtle treats of is by him expounded concerning teaching.
1. When Miniſters are endeavouring to open the Scriptures, is it not the Spirit that opens their Underſtandings, Iſa. 61.1, 2.to conceive aright the Mind and Meaning of God in them?Pſal. 45.7. comp. with Joh. 3.33. & 1.41.
2. When Miniſters have ſtudied to preach profitably, is it not the Spirit that teacheth Perſons to profit?
The firſt Uſe is for Caution. Act. 11.26.Take we heed, leſt we take in (or touch with) thoſe who under pretence of crying up the teaching of the Spirit, cry down learning by the Word, or through the qualified and called Miniſters thereof.
1. Joh. 16.13. Dan. 10.21Is not the Spirit of Chriſt the Spirit of Truth? and doth he not lead into, and according to the Scripture of Truth?
2. Are not thoſe two Orders iſſued out together, 1 Theſſ. 5.19, 20.Quench not the Spirit, Deſpiſe not Propheſyings? Doth being taught of God exclude his teaching by Men? And if the Sanctified have learn'd that firſt Principle about knowing the Lord, doth it follow that they need not that any Man ſhould (under him) further teach them?
The ſecond Uſe is for Information.
The firſt Branch is, There is a great Difference between ſpiritual Perſons and others. Are not the former the excellent of the Earth, Pſal. 16.3. & 105.15.and among his anointed ones, and ſo prepared for driving a ſpiritual Trade with him? Are others ſo?
The ſecond Branch is; It is the Duty of us all to enquire, whether Drops of the holy Oil, or Meaſures of the teaching Spirit are fallen on us.
Surely, Prov. 20.13.1. The holy Spirit rendreth his Hearers and Scholars attentive: Have not they hearing Ears?
2. Mat. 13.13 Job 42.5, 6.He maketh ſuch as learn of him, meek and humble. Are they puffed up as others?
The third Uſe is for Reproof. 1. This falls fully on thoſe who make the Teachings of the Spirit matter of Scorn and Drollery, 2 Pet. 3.3.and brand thoſe as Fanaticks and Franticks that wait for them.
2. They alſo fall under the Laſh, Jam. 1.21. Rev. 2.7.who being Hearers are only ſo. They hear the Voice of the Servants of God; but to hear what the Spirit ſaith by them, they are not ſollicitous.
May it be well weighed, 1. The holy Spirit is the Comforter, Joh. 16.7.and can they who ſlight him expect Comfort from him, or receive it from a lower Hand?
2. The Spirit is the Spirit of Glory. 1 Pet. 4.14. Iſa. 63.8, 9.Shall they have Glory from him hereafter, who do willingly want him here? Will he not be to Deſpiſers and Vexers a ſore Enemy?
The fourth Uſe is of Exhortation.
The firſt Branch bendeth towards thoſe that are willingly Strangers to the holy Spirit, and his Teachings. Go they directly (and in a Scripture-Path) to Chriſt for Supply?
1. Feeling, that naturally they want ſpiritual Sight.
2. Grieving, Eph. 5.8. Job 36.12.that they have ſo long reſted in this State.
3. Fearing, Mat. 8.12.leſt they ſhould be taken out of the World with their Eyes ſhut, and ſo paſs from inner into outer and utter Darkneſs.
4. Waiting, that in the Uſe of Means on Chriſt's Account the Spirit may be conferr'd on them.
The ſecond Branch beareth what is cordial, 1 Jo. 2.27.and calleth on God's Anointed Ones to take it.
1. Shall not they be taught the moſt needful and uſeful Points?
2. Will they not find the Spirit's Teachings attended with Clearneſs, Iſa. 32.3.and that they are of a growing nature?
The 27th Poſition. The Kingly Office of Jeſus Chriſt doth much contribute to the Converſe and Communion that is between God and Man.
1. Cant. 1.4.Do not Chriſtians in (and by) their Services own this King?
2. Pſal. 45.11, 14.Doth not this King on his Servants confer choice Favours?
3. See ſpiritual Troughton thereon. Pſal. 110.3, 4, 5.Are not they maintain'd and defended in the Enjoyment of Privileges, and Exerciſe of Services, by his Royal Power? Are not their Enemies (eſpecially ſpiritual) by that Power ſubdued?
I infer, 1. That the Oppoſition that is made to Chriſt's Kingly Office, is to be made matter of mourning. Are not the Oppoſers thereof oppoſite to themſelves, Pſal. 2.1, 2, 3.and to the ſpiritual Trade which they ſhould with others drive? O that ſome Words of truly worthy Perſons had the Weight due to them!
One ſaid, Dr. Holmes.Very few (if any) Miniſters dare preach up the Extent of this Office, ſo little can many brook this Doctrine.
Another in a ſmall Piece of no ſmall Worth, Mr. Beadle.having made Enquiry (in Times better than in ſome late Reigns) what was the great and crying Sin of England, Nolumus hunc regnare.did at laſt pitch on the great Enmity to Chriſt's Kingdom, and Government of his Church; and the prevailing Cry, We will not have this Man to reign over us, Luke 19.27.as that Crime.
Be it (as it is) known, 1. That they who refuſe Chriſt's inward Government in and over their own Souls, are not likely to be rightly zealous for that Church-Government that can lay Claim to Divine Inſtitution.
2. They who will not ſubmit to Chriſt's Golden Scepter, muſt expect to feel the Weight of his Iron Rod. Will he not break thoſe that will not bend?
Inf. 2. The Children of Zion, Pſal. 149.2.who are for ſpiritual traffiquing, ſhould much rejoice in Chriſt as their King. Is there not a Cauſe, the greateſt Cauſe? Is any other King comparable to him?
1. Doth he not chooſe his Subjects, Joh. 15.19 1 Jo. 4.19.and cauſe them to chooſe him?
2. Doth he not give them as Laws, Pſal. 110.3ſo Hearts to obey them? Can any other King write Laws in the inner Parts?
3. Doth he not as forbid the Acts, See Roobotham on 1 Pet. 2.7.ſo by degrees take away the Jews Pretences?
4. Pſal. 89.29, 30, 31.Doth he not as correct their Diſloyalties, ſo bleſs that Correction?
5. Doth he not as call them to, ſo qualify them for the holy War?
6. Rom. 14.17.Will he not as preſerve ſpiritual Power, ſo create ſpiritual Peace in them?
7. Will he not ſo reward as (at laſt) to crown them, and that with Glory?
I will ask ſome farther Queſtions about Chriſt's Kingdom.
1. Luke 17.21.Is not his Kingdom ſpiritual, and within Men, in their Conſciences?
2. Pſal. 2.8.Is it not extenſive and univerſal? and his Dominion over all. Rev. 19.16.(1.) All Perſons, (even Kings.) (2.) All Nations. (3.) All Ages. (4.) All Creatures? Is not he who is Head of the Church, Eph. 1.20, 21. Iſa. 9.7.Head over all things for the Church's good?
3. Is not his Kingdom everlaſting? can there be any end of it?
I add, What can be eminent in a King, that is not eminently in Chriſt? (1.) What Extraction or Pedigree? (2.) What Anointing? (3.) What Qualities in the beſt of Earthly Kings are to be compared to thoſe of his?
For Wiſdom, for Courage, for Righteouſneſs, for Mercy, for Conduct and Management, who cometh near him?
Inf. 3. All that do rejoice in Chriſt as their King, ſhould have their Joy duly qualified.
May it be, 1. Reverential, and mixt with holy Fear. Pſal. 2.11.Are not the higheſt Subjects infinitely below this Soveraign?
2. Spiritual; reaching, Gal. 5.22.yea riſing in (and from) their Spirits, and ſavouring ſweetly of God's Spirit.
3. Strengthening, Neh. 8.10.and enabling their Souls to run after him.
4. Raiſing, Mat. 25.4.ſo that their Souls mount up towards that State that is ſtiled Joy.
The laſt Inference. Mat. 6.9, 10.Chriſt's Subjects that are ſpiritual Traders, ſhould pray (as they are taught) that his Kingdom may come.
1. That the Word or Scepter thereof may be lifted up.
2. That the Body of Iſrael, Pſal. 110.2. & 14. ult.with the Fulneſs of the Gentiles, may bow to him.
3. That his Spirit in (and with) his Word may ride on conquering and to conquer.Revel. 6.2.
4. That Magiſtrates who rule by, may rule for Chriſt.
5. That in order to the flouriſhing of Churches; (1.) Col. 2.5.Officers may be eſtabliſhed. (2.) Order maintain'd. And, (3.) Cenſures exerciſed.
The 28th Poſition. Through the Humiliation of Chriſt, ſpiritual Trading, or Communion between God and Man, is no little furthered.
Did not the Humiliation of Chriſt ſhew moſt evidently, That notwithſtanding Man's Fall, 1 Joh. 4.9, 10.both he the Son, and his Father, were willing to tranſact with him? Quo vilior pro nobis, eo charior nobis.In this among (in this above) other things, was the Love of the Father manifeſted, That he gave his only begotten Son, that we might live through his Death, and be exalted through his being humbled: Velatio Deitatis Revelatio Charitatis.And when he ſtooped loweſt, did not his Love (to our ſight) riſe higheſt?
2. Doth not the Humiliation of the Son of God greatly encourage the Sons and Daughters of Men to draw nigh to God? Dr. Manton.Do we not read under one of the beſt of Hands, that as by the Incarnation of Chriſt may be ſeen a way for removing Diſcouragements that ariſe from Man's diſtance from God, ſo from his ſatisfactory Paſſion, is a way made for taking away Man's Difference and Diſagreement with God. Hebr. 10.19, 20, 21.Seeing Heaven hath come down to Earth, Men and Women on Earth may more boldly go up to Heaven.
I infer, 1. That Chriſt's State of Humiliation is a Subject well worthy of the ſpiritual Traders Study. May the Touches given thereon have becoming Conſideration!
1. Tho in the ſtricteſt ſenſe, he that is God, and ſo moſt High, cannot intrinſically be humbled; Vid. Ameſii Med. p. 81. & Baxteri Methodum, Part 3. p. 11.and Chriſt's humbling himſelf is brought in as following his being found in faſhion as a Man; yet, as to us (and as to appearance) God is ſaid to humble himſelf: and when the Son of God took on him the form of a Servant, he made himſelf of no Reputation, he verily nothing'd himſelf, Phil. 2.7, 8. foreign. Pſal. 113.6and ſo was extrinſecally and reputatively low.
2. The ſtooping of Chriſt after his Incarnation is worth wondering at.
(1.) 2 Cor. 8.9.Had not he humbling Circumſtances attending his Birth? Did not he who was and is rich, become exceeding poor?
As a Creature is a poor thing to the Creator, See profound Dr. Bates his Harmony. Luk. 2.24. compared with Levit. 12. foreign. Mat. 2.13, 22. Mark 6.and Man a Creature lower than the Angels, and Man fallen lower than in his firſt Eſtate.
1ſt. Was not the bleſſed Virgin-Mother (tho well deſcended) ſo poor, that her Offering was two young Pigeons?
2dly. Did not the moſt holy Babe firſt breath in an out-Houſe, belonging to an Inn, and fall from the Womb into the Manger?
3dly. See Dr. Lightfoot.Was not the Raiment he was wrapp'd in ſo coarſe, that by ſome the Greek Word is render'd Rags.
Again, (2.) Was it not wonderful that our dear Lord, who was early made a Fugitive when and where he ſettled, ſhould go in the count of a Carpenter's Son? and (as ſome think) work in that Trade?
(3.) Can we ſtay on this ſide admiring, Gal. 4.4.when we look on the Lord Jeſus as made under the Law, his own Law, yea, the Ceremonial Law, that typified him, having Blood drawn in his Circumciſion?
(4.) Was it not part of his Humiliation to be aſſaulted by the Tempter, Mat. 4. the beginning.and that with ſuch horrid Temptations?
(5.) Was it not ſo alſo that he endured the Ignominy that attended the verbal and real Contradiction of Sinners againſt himſelf?See on this Dr. Stillingfleet on Heb. 12.3, 4.
(6.) Was not his entring the Gates of Death (who gave his Enemies Life) wonderful Humiliation?
1ſt. Was not his dying a prime compleating Act of Obedience?
2dly. Phil. 2.7, 8.Was not his being made an Offering in his Soul a great Abaſement?
3dly. Were not his penal Sufferings, as in all Parts, ſo from all Hands?
I add, Iſa. 53. ult.1. Was not his Burial (or being brought to the Grave) an Ingredient to his Humiliation?
2. Was not ſo alſo that he deſcended into Hell, Vid. Vcetium de deſcenſu.in the mildeſt ſenſe that moſt Divines take the words in?
Inf. 2. In vain do they pretend to be ſpiritual Traders, who do not look for and long after Communion with Chriſt in his Humiliation, particularly in his Death.
Is not this their caſe, 1. Zech. 12.10.Who are not for ſteeping their Souls in Humiliation for Sin, and that as againſt Chriſt? And theirs,
2. Who are not for dying to Sin daily, Gal. 2.20.throughly and voluntarily? And are they ſo who live and lie in open Sins, or do not keep up a Watch againſt inward ones?
May ſuch Perſons conſider, that if they thus live and die, Chriſt's Humiliation will aggravate their Condemnation.
The laſt Inference. All truly good Perſons ſhould learn the proper Leſſons that Chriſt's Humiliation teacheth.
The firſt is; Rom. 8.32.God the Father ſtood much on the Honour of his Government, and ſo of his Juſtice: To what Pains was Chriſt put?
2. A fair open way was made for Chriſt's Exaltation. Pſal. 110. ult.Did not his drinking of the Brook in the way lead to the lifting up of his Head?
3. The Doctrine of the Croſs, of Chriſt's enduring the Croſs, Gal. 5.14.and calling others to carry it after him, is not to be ſtumbled at.
4. 2 Cor. 8.9.A wide Door of Hope is ſet and ſtands open to and for humble Penitents. Did not his drinking of the bitter Cup tend to ſweeten it to them, 1 Theſſ. 1. ult.and to prevent their drinking the Dregs of it?
The 29th Poſition. Chriſt's State of Exaltation maketh much for furthering Communion between God and fallen Man.
1. Doth not God the Father, who hath received the Son, as in our Nature, into Heaven, look on that Nature, and on our Perſons through it, Eph. 1.6.if we ſtand in a State of Union to him that took it on him, In Capite.as pleaſing to him? yea, doth he not conſider us as in a ſort exalted in (and with) him our Head? Eph. 2.6.And are not his Employs and Actings on our behalf peculiarly regarded by him?
2. When we are making Addreſſes to the moſt High, Heb. 12.2.is it not our Duty, Intereſt and Way much to look unto Jeſus, and that as exalted, and appearing in our Nature for us? Doth not this much encourage us, Joh. 20.17.that he is gone to his Father and our Father, to his God and our God?
The Uſe follows, which is, 1. By way of Caution. Tho in managing the ſpiritual Trade, we are with (and by) our Faith to follow Chriſt into Heaven; yet are we much to lie at his Croſs, and conſider him as enduring it, and ſatisfying the Demands of his injured Father. Heb. 12.2, 3. Rom. 4. ult.Tho he as exalted, applieth the Benefit of Redemption, he as abaſed, obtain'd and purchaſed it. He is now eminently lovely, but did then eminently ſhew his Love.
And ſo I next infer, That all thoſe who are for trading into Heaven, ſhould get and keep diſtinct and clear Apprehenſions of Chriſt as received into Heaven.Vid. Ameſium & Alſtedium.
Are not the Degrees of his Exaltation well worthy of our beſt Thoughts? Do they not exactly anſwer the Degrees that were in his Humiliation?
1. Did not he who died, 2 Cor. 5.15.after Death riſe again?
2. Epheſ. 4.9, 10.Did not he who deſcended into the Earth, aſcend into Heaven?
3. Doth not he who continued for ſome time in Hades, or the ſeparate State, Heb. 1.2, 3.now ſit and abide, where he ever will be, at the Father's Right-hand?
Again; Is not Myſtery written on, and to be read in the Ends of Chriſt's Exaltation?
And that firſt, 1. In reference to himſelf: Phil. 2.9, 10. Pſal. 110. ult.Is not he rewarded after all his fore Services and Sufferings? Is not his Head lifted up that drunk of the Brook in the way? Hath not his Croſs proved the way to his Crown? And tho he was only capable of being exalted in his Manhood by way of Addition, yet may he that is God be ſaid to be exalted by way of Manifeſtation.
2. With reference to us; Is he not full of Compaſſion when freed from Paſſion? Doth he not ſympathize, tho he cannot ſuffer? Heb. 4.15, 16.Is he not entred Heaven with an Heart full of Love to Sinners on Earth? Doth not his tranſacting there make much for our Advantage that are here?
The next Inference is, They do not drive the ſpiritual Trade, who neither have nor deſire to have Communion with Chriſt as exalted. Joh. 14.6. See the ſolid Scotch Brown.Is not he as the Truth, and the Life, ſo the Way? the way to the Father in Duty, and the way from the Father in the Expreſſion of Mercy? And here let me propound ſome Queſtions of Concernment.
1. Have they Communion with Chriſt as in Heaven, Phil. 3.20.who have not in Deſire and Deſign their Converſation in Heaven?
(1.) As to their Minds, muſing on him, and the things above.
(2.) Intellectualiter, &c. So profound Whichcoat.In their Affections, loving, hoping for, and longing after him and them.
(3.) In their whole Couſe ſtudying the exacteſt Imitation of, and Conformity to him attainable.
2. Have they Communion with an exalted Saviour, who too frequently, and too too wilfully abaſe and debaſe themſelves in the way of ſinful Sins?
Whether they be ſuch as are (for diſtinction ſake) ſtiled fleſhly, 1 Pet. 2.12.and ſenſual, tending to gratify the ſenſitive Appetite, ſuch as Drunkenneſs, Uncleanneſs and Idleneſs.
Or they be ſuch as carry the Title of Worldly, ſuch as Covetouſneſs, Oppreſſion, and the like.
Or ſuch as are ſaid to carry the Face and Figure of the Devil, Dr. Arrowſmith, ſtiled Suaviſſimus.ſuch as Pride, Wrath and Malice.
May ſuch Perſons conſider!
1. This exalted Saviour keeps his Heart open to the Penitent.
2. His Hand will fall and lie heavy on all that are found in wilful Impenitency.
FINIS.
A Catalogue of Books printed for Tho. Parkhurſt.
THE Church's Triumph over Death. A Funeral Sermon upon the Deceaſe of bleſſed Mr. Rob. Fleming, late Paſtor of a Church in Rotterdam. By Daniel Burgeſs.
Mr. Baxter's Grand Queſtion reſolv'd. His Call to Seriouſneſs in Religion. His good Counſel to the converted and unconverted Sick, bound together.
Free Juſtification by Chriſt: Written firſt in Latin, by John Fox, Author of the Book of Martyrs, and now tranſlated into Engliſh, for the Benefit of thoſe that love their own Souls, and would not be miſtaken in ſo great a Point.
The poor Man's Help, or young Man's Guide. By Mr. Burkitt, Miniſter of Dedham in Eſſex.
An earneſt Call to Family Religion; being the Subſtance of eighteen Sermons: By Sam. Slater.
The Confirming Work of Religion: By Robert Fleming of Rotterdam.
Advice to an only Child; or excellent Counſel for all young Perſons.
Trading Spiritualized.
The Third Part.
Or, ſome more POSITIONS, On which Tradeſmen (And Others) may (O that they would!) meditate.
By W. BAGSHAW, Miniſter of the Goſpel.
LONON; Printed for Nevill Symonds, Bookſeller in Sheffield, in York-ſhire; and Sold by George Conyers, at the Ring in Little Britain, in London. 1696.
To my much Honoured Friend, Mr. Henry Gill.
Worthy Sir,
THough my Memory laboureth under much Weakneſs, Can I ever forget the Encouragement which my Miniſtry met with (in Times ſufficiently diſcouraging) at the Beloved Oaks? where ſome of the Truths preſented in the Printed Sheets, came to the Ears, yea, and (as I believe) to the Hearts of you, and your then precious Boſome-relation, who has for ſome Years layen in the Boſome of Abraham. I am aſſured, you will not deſpiſe the Day of Small Things; you will look with favour on his hand, whoſe age and infirmities have (of late) hindred your ſeeing his face. May you whoſe ſelf-denyal is exemplary (as is alſo your bounty) be bleſſed, and a great bleſſing! May your dear Children (Children of the Covenant) and all your Relations proſper! May the Church that is (and that meets) in your houſe have in it a ſpecial preſence of God! So prayeth, Endeared Sir, much obliged
W. Bagſhaw.
To the Reverend, Mr. Edward Prime, Mr. Robert Fern, and the other Worthy Miniſters near Cheſterfield, and Sheffield, that joyn Hearts and Hands for furthering the Lords Work.
Very Dear Brethren!
MINE Hand was at the Propoſal for your Aſſociating, and mine Heart is with you in all your Meetings for your ſtrengthening of one anothers Hands in God. With what delight I have comen amongſt you when younger, and fitter for Travel, he knoweth, who is All-knowing. I have no ſuch vanity, as to expect (or deſire) to be counted an Author, yet am not unwilling that when dead I may yet ſpeak in ſuch Papers as this is prefixed to. Pardon (I pray you) my mentioning you in this Addreſs. If to your ſolid Judgment, my proceeding further appear unneceſſary, and unprofitable, I beſeech you, hint ſo much. The Good Lord who hath taken down many Lights that were in his Golden Candleſticks, continue you long as Burning and Shining Ones! and bleſs all Related to you. This is the Heart's deſire, and Prayer, of
Choice Sirs! One unworthy to call you Brethren, W. Bagſhaw.