The Power of Godliness, Book 1 · Chapter 12
CHAP. XII. Of the Titles that are given to them that believe in Christ. They are called Saints. Mercifull Ones. Excellent or Precious. True or Faithfull. Elect and Chosen. The Priviledges of the Elect, with the Signes of Election.
Q. WHat Titles are given to them that believe in Christ, and walk before God according to his Commandements?
A. They are called Saints or holy Ones. To the Saints that are on earth, Psal. 16.2. Apoc. 13.7. 1 Cor. 14.33. Rom. 1.7. 1 Cor. 1.2. 2 Cor. 1.2. Eph 1.2. Phil. 1.2. Col. 1.2. Rom. 16.15. 2 Cor. 13.13. Phil. 4.21, 22.all my delight is in them. Thus almost in every Epistle the faithfull are called Saints. To the Saints that are at Rome, Corinth, Ephesus, Philippi; the Saints salute you, &c.
Q. Were all that professed Religion in Rome or Ephesus, Saints by Calling?
A. A Saint is inwardly a Saint, or by outward Profession: Now Paul was not ignorant, that there were bad Fish as well as good, chaffe as well as Wheate in this visible Church; nevertheless he doth well call them Saints: First, Because they were all so by outward Profess…on of Doctrine and Participation of the Sacraments; yea, by temporary faith and conformity, for ought we know. For, look how a civill vertuous man doth not like to have in his house uncivill rake-shames: so the most holy God will not allow any in his Family, openly unholy. Like Master, like man, at least in outward conformity. Secondly, There were many Saints in Corinth; and the better part, not the bigger giveth the denomination. Wine and water is called Wine, Gold and Silver Oare unfined, is called Gold and Silver, though yet must dross be intermedled with it.
Q. Is this Title of Saints given onelyonly to them that believe in Christ, either in Truth or Profession?
A. God is often called in Scripture the Saint, or Holy One of Israel, and the King of the Saints. Holiness is ascribed unto God in the Word,Hos. 11.12. Isa. 5.19, 24. both by Angels and men,Psal. 71.22. & 78.41.….89.18. Rev. 15.3. Esa. 6.3. Rev. 4.8. Psal. 99.3.5. 1 Joh. 1.5. Jam. 1.13. Luk. 20.8. Joh. 17.17. Jude v. 1. Isa. 5.16. 1 Sam. 2.2. Psal. 145.21. Psal. 97.12. Esa. 30.12, 13. Psal. 22.3. Mar. 1.24. Rev. 3.7. Isa. 54.5. Luk. 4.1. Mat. 3.11. Act. 1.5. Psal. 106.16. Deut. 33.2. with Act. 7.53. Iude v. 24. Iob 15.15. Deut. 33.3. 1 Cor. 1.2. Eph. 6.18. Heb. 3.1. 1 Thes. 5.27. Mat. 27.52. Dan. 7.18.21, 22, 25. Rom. 1.7. 1 Pet. 2.9. in two respcts. First, Because he in himself is sanctity and purity it self; and it is impossible that in him should be any evil, sinne, or uncleanness. He is light, and darkness in him there is not any. Secondly, Because he is the only Author and Effecter of all holiness and sanctimony in whomsoever; sanctifying us his people, and advancing us hereby above all Nations which he hath made; this being one of his principall blessings. So that none is holy as the Lord; he is a holy God sanctified in Justice; and let all flesh bless the Name of his holiness for ever and ever. He is called the Holy One of Israel, because in speciall manner he made himself known unto them, whom he separated from all Nations of the earth, to be a peculiar people to himself, who were to beare his Name and do him service; and to whom he shewed himself most bountifull, in speciall manner, prosecuting them daily with his favours. Jesus Christ, as he is God manifested in the flesh, is the Saint of God, the Holy One, and the True, even the Holy One of Israel: being himself full of the Holy Ghost, wherewith he baptiseth his Church whereof he is the Mediatour. The High Priest in the Law, as a Type of Christ, is called the Saint of the Lord. The Elect and blessed Angels are also Saints, having sanctity by creation continued and confirmed unto them for ever. All men and women called to the faith of God, are Saints by Calling and Separation from the world, being sanctifyed by Christ Jesus; and one with another are holy Brethren. Of these, some are Saints departed this life, and sleeping in the Lord: other some are on earth, and whiles they here live (nowithstanding their many infirmities and afflictions) are Saints of the most High, a holy Nation.
Q. Let us hear further how it may be proved that there be Saints on Earth?
Psal. 37.28. Psal. 50.5. Psal. 132.9.16. Eph. 3.8. Rom. 12.13. & 15.25. Eph. 4.12. Rom. 16.2. 1 Cor 16.15. Psal. 34.9. Rev. 13.10. & 14.12. 2 Cor. 9.1.A. The Scriptures are most plain and plentifull. The Lord forsaketh not his Saints; Gather my Saints together unto me; those that have made a Covenant with me by Sacrifice. Let thy Saints shout for joy. Paul calleth himself the least of all Saints And Christ gave Ministers to his Church, for the gathering together of the Saints. So we read, Fear the Lord ye his Saints, &c. Here is the patience and the faith of the Saints.
Q. What things go to this that we be Saints?
Deut. 26.19. Apoc. 14.12. & 11.18. & 7.15. Eph. 5.3. Col. 1.22. 1 Pet. 1.15. 1 Pet. 2.9. Col. 3.12.A. Three things: First, The purifying of the heart. Secondly, The Profession outward of holiness. Thirdly, Holy conversation. The Saints keep the Commandements of God, and the faith of Jesus; they serve God night and day in his Temple. Fornication and uncleanness, let it not once be named amongst you, as becometh Saints. As he that hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation.
Q. How are we made Saints?
A. By faith in Jesus Christ. First, Faith purifieth the heart. For as a counterpoyson coming in,Act. 15.9. the poyson that is weaker is expelled, and as the Sunne rising, the darkness of the night is driven away and vanisheth: so Christ the Sonne of righteousness, by faith rising in our hearts, the ignorance and lusts of ignorance are dispersed and fly before him. Secondly, Faith begetteth profession of holiness.2 Cor. 4.13. Rom. 10.10. Having the same Spirit of faith, we cannot but speak, saith the Apostle: and believing with the heart, and confessing with the mouth, go together. Thirdly, Holy conversation springeth from faith.Eph. 4.20, 21, 22. If you have learned Christ as the truth is in him, you have so learned him as to put off the old man, and to put on the new. Faith worketh by love, even as a Tree,Gal. 5.6. hath both his leafe and fruit; and as if a Tree should be changed from one kinde to another, the leaves and fruit should likewise be changed; as if a Peare-Tree should be made an Apple-Tree, it would have leaves and fruits agreeing to the change made in it: so man by faith having his heart purified, made a Tree of righteousness, he hath his leaves and fruit; leaves of profession, fruit of action. So again, man as a new Tree set into and growing out of Christ, beareth a new fruit; he converseth in holiness and newness of life.
Q. What Reasons be there to shew the happy condition of the poor despised Saints in this world?
A. 1. God is the King of Saints, their Protectour, and defence against all their adversaries. They are in his hand, power and guidance, under his care, protection and custody. He will be for a shadow to them in the day time from the heat, Apoc. 15.3. Deut. 33.3. Esa. 4.6.and for a place of refuge, and for a covert from storme and from raine. And by this we learne that the state of the Saints is safe and blessed, for no adverse power can hurt, whom God will helpe. None can take them out of his hand. 2.Joh. 10.29. Deut. 33.3. Mal. 3.17. Deut. 7.6. & 14.2. 1 Pet. 29. They are the beloved Ones of the Lord, his choice Jewes of price, dearer unto him then all the world besides. They are his peculiar Treasure, or people of peculiar Possession; his own proper good which he loveth, and keepeth in store for himself, and for speciall use. Princes Favourites can want no wealth, honour, or preferment: but much more blessed are they that be in high esteeme with God. 3. The Lords Portion is his people, Deut. 32.9. Psal. 142.5. Jer. 10.16. Rom. 8.27.and he is the Portion of his people. He hath divided them unto himself, and hath freely given himself unto them. Thou art my Portion in the Land of the living. 4 The Spirit maketh intercession for the Saints: that is, it teacheth them with sighes and groanes to lay open their cares unto God, who is acquainted with the voice of his Spirit, and will not deny the requests which he enableth us to put up according to his will. 5. They are fellow Citizens of the new Jerusalem, Eph. 2.19. Col. 1.12.of the houshould of God, Inheritours of the Kingdom of Heaven. Christ is the great Heire of all things: the Saints are co-Heires with Christ. A Christians Tenure is the fairest, firmest, and most sure: for though his life be changeable, and his daies on earth must have an end, yet his Inheritance endures for ever. When Daniel had described the greatness and glory of the Princes, Potentates and mighty States in the four Monarchies,Dan. 7.27. at last he comes to speak of a Kingdom, which is the greatest under the whole Heaven; and that is the Kingdom of the Saints of the most High So glorious is the state of the poor despised Servants of God in the Kingdom of grace. And if there be such suing on earth, to become Free-men of great Cities, especially to live in the Courts of great Princes, how great is the felicity of every Saint, who is no more now a forreiner or stranger, but a free Denizon of the New Jerusalem. 6. In that great, and last, and terrible day, Christ will be glorified and made marvellous in his Saints; 2 Thes. 1.10.that is, he shall glorifie them with that glory, wherewith he as man is glorified. For their glory, is his glory, and he is glorified in his Saints, as by glorifying them he doth manifest his grace, power and goodness to the whole world. 7.1 Cor. 6.2. The Saints shall judge the world; they shall as Benchers sitting with Christ, applaud his most righteons Judgment on wicked ones, who have not believed, nor obeyed the Gospel. 8. The Saints shall save the Island. Hos. 11.9. I will not make thee as Admah, &c. for there be many Saints in the midst of thee.
Q The Saints of God are much afflicted, hated, disgraced, yea smitten of God and humbled.
A. 1. Though Gods stroakes seem to be stroakes of War, yet Gods words are words of Peace: the Word and Spirit of God, are sure Fountains of rest and peace, to the heart and conscience of Gods afflicted people. 2. The Saints may be in want, but they are never forsaken or left utterly destitute. The Lord throweth them down with one hand, and raiseth them with the other. Their necessities are but fatherly chastisements, orbitter Potions to purge corruption, or sharpe trials to prove their strength, that their peace and comfort might be the more excellent in the latter end. 3. If the men of this world hate and persecute the Saints,Psal. 10.18. &. 18.27. & 23.4. & 28.7. Psal. 34.17. & 40.17. God will maintain their cause, and be their refuge: but as for their enemies, He will cover them with shame, and trample them under feet. The spitefull enemies of sincerity shall never escape Gods hands: but the Saints shall finde succour from him in due season.
Q. What Signes or Evidences are laid down in Scripture, by which the Saints may be discerned?
Deut. 33.3, 4.A. 1. The Saints are humbled at the feet of the most High, to receive the words of his mouth; which they receive and possesse as a thing of worth and excellency.Psal. 119.111. Thy Testimonies have I taken as an Heritage for ever: for they are the joy of my heart. 2. They stand in awe of God continually. Fear the Lord ye his Saints: Psal. 34.9.for there is no want to them that fear him. God is greatly to be feared in the Assembly of the Saints; Psal. 89.7.and to be had in reverence of them that are round about him. 3. The Lord is the Portion of his Saints; though they have hopes or possession of great things in the earth,Psal. 16.5. Jer. 51.19. yet Gods favour is that they most prize, and spirituall things are to them the fairest part of their Inheritance. 4. In extream afflictions the Saints faint not, cease not to seek unto God by hearty prayer, runne not unto wicked and ungodly meanes to help themselves: but patiently commit themselves unto him in wel-doing, and hope in mercy. 5. The faith of the Saints is confirmed by afflictions, and the experience of Gods dealing towards them. Therefore they be not dismaied, though they meet with manifold trials, but follow after the Lord with more dilligence, st…k faster unto him, and cleave unto his Testimonies. 6. It is the constant study of the Saints to keep themselves from the pollutions and defilements of the world, as they be a people separated from the world to the service of God. 7. The Saints of God do heartily love and affect each other, be they in outward estates never so different. True Christian sanctity, next to God and our own souls, makes us affect those that are sanctified, who express in their life the vertues of our heavenly Father, by whom we are called from darkness to light. Hence it is that the Saints, the houshold of faith, the Brethren, are commended as persons whom we must affect and do good to before all other. Thus David loved, All my delight is in the Saints; Thus Paul, We love none according to the flesh. Every Creature loveth and liketh to be with those who are united with it in the Communication of the same nature; So sanctified Christians cannot but love and like to be most with them, who have received the like Divine nature, in which themselves are partakers;Eph. 1.15. Col. 1.4. yea, thy love all Christian Saints, not such who have other parts pleasing and contentfull: but they love every one in whom they can see the Image of God shining. For it cannot be but that love which truely loveth one person as he is holy, should love every one, so farre forth as he is holy. And from this love issueth willingness to minister to the necessities of the poor Brethren. Yet, though we are to esteeme and inwardly affect men, as we see them holy, we are not bound to shew them the outward effects of our love answerably. The nearer persons are tied to us in naturall and civill Bands, the more must our providence be for them, and love shewed them in outward things, unless their foolish lewdness dispriviledge them this way; for then the Proverb taketh place, A wise Servant may be preferred before a foolish Childe. 8. It is the priviledge of the Saints that they have part in each others Prayers: and it is their duty and practice to pray for one another.Eph. 6.1…. Praying alwaies with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance, and supplication for all Saints?
Q. What use may be made of this point?
A. 1. This lets us see the fearfull estate of many amongst us, who like as they tell of Halifax Nuts, which are all shels, no kernels; so these professe themselves Saints, but their ignorance, their idle courses, their riots, their blasphemies, proclaime that there is nothing within which belongeth to Saints. Nay, many will not stick to professe they are none of the holy Brotherhood, to jest at such as indeavour to holiness; saying, that young Saints prove old Devils. It is a wonder that such hellish Owles dare fly in the Sun-shine of so Christian a Proffession as is made amongst us. Such Believers, who are mockers of Saints, who will not be accounted Saint-holy, and such who are not changed into new creatures, walking in newness of life, they may well fear that their belief is not true, such as doth unite them with Christ. For whosoever is a true Believer, is a Saint, whosoever is by faith in Christ, is a new creature. 2. Hence we see the vanity of the Papists, in tansferring and appropriating this Name of Saints, to those whom the Pope hath put in his Kalendar, and to whom he hath adjudged Divine Honours, Holi-daies, Invocation, Candles, Church, &c. These Saints were not heard of in St Pauls time. A man may be in Hell, who hath all such things performed about him. For the Pope doth continually erre in taking that upon him which was never in his power, viz. to canonize Saints in that manner; and in the particular object he doth grossly mistake, setting notorious and publique Homicides, Traitours, Murderers of Princes, Incendiaries, and gross Ideots in the Catalogue of Saints. Saints are Triumphant or Militant; Triumphant, such who now walk by sight, enjoying the presence of God; Angels, Spirits of the righteous departed, who have now rested from all the labours of their Militant condition. Militant, who walk by Faith in holy profession and conversation, holding Christ their Head, by whose power apprehended by Faith, they are kept to salvation. 3. This may strengthen us against temptations from our imperfections, the Lord doth reckon of us, and hold us as Saints: He that by Faith hath put on the Sunne of righteousness, is more clear and bright, then if he were arrayed with the Beames of the Sun. Again, though we have sinnes too many, yet the better part giveth the Name. Corne-fields we see have weeds, yet we call them Corn-fields, not Fields of weeds: so here, yea grace, though it seem over that sinne sheweth to be, yet it will in time overcome it; as Carloe is much higher then the Barly, yet the Barly getteth up and killeth it: The Spirit that is in us from Christ, is stronger then the spirit of the world.
Q If the Name of Saints be Common to all Belivers, how seemeth it to be appropriated to the Apostles and Evangelists in the Titles of those holy Books which they penned?
A. This Title or Epithet, though it be both common and ancient, yet questitionless was not annexed by any of these Writers, as not agreeable to true Christian discretion and modesty: yea perhaps it was also, if not injurious, yet likely to prove offensive to all other Believers, that a Title common to all and every Christian, should be made proper to some few, though principall Members of the Church. You will object (it may be) that these Writers stile themselves Apostles; as if they desired to have their Dignity and Office known to all men. True it is, that they do so indeed in their Epistles. But neither did that Name belong to all the Faithfull, or to any, but some certain men: and it was necessary for the authorizing of their Writings. How then? Do I condemne the Title, or the first Authours, or continuers and users of it? Nothing less. For I gladly acknowledge both that the Apostles and Evangelists had especiall interest in that Name, and that there could be no danger of scandall, seeing it was not taken by themselves, but given to them as an honour, by the consent as it were, and with the liking of all true Christians; whose purpose it was, not to make them Mediatours of intercession betwixt God and men upon earth; but to shew the reverent opinion they had conceived and did hold of such worthy and holy men.Chesed pro dedecore penitur. Prov. 14.34. pietas nationum Prov. 14.34. quia omnis illorum pietas in idola est.
Q. What other Titles are given to Believers?
A. They are calledaforeign This Title is given to God himself. Jer. 3.…2. Joh. 2.8. To the Church Act. 13.35, 36. To Aaron, Deut. 33.8. To all the faithfull, Isa. 57.1. Psal. 4.3. Deut. 33.8. Psal. 31.23. Psal. 12.1. foreign Mic. 7.2. foreign Psal. 79.2. Psal. 116.15. Mercifull Ones, or the Mercifull Ones of God. Know that the Lord hath wonderfully set apart him that is Mercifull for himself. Love the Lord all ye his Mercifull Ones. The Mercifull man ceaseth; the Mercifull or godly man is perished out of the earth. The flesh of thy Mercifull Ones have they given unto the Beasts of the Field. Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his Mercifull Ones.
Q. What things are implied hereby?
A. 1. It notes one that God of his free, undeserved benignity, love and mercy doth graciously accept,Psal. 144.…. Psal. 30.4. Psal. 59 10, 17. 2 Par. 6.…. Psal. 10.10. Psal. 52.9. repute as his Sonne by adoption, and compass with his favours above others. Thou wilt not suffer thy bforeignMercifull One to see corruption; that is, him towards whom thou wilt shew thy self bountifull. So saith the Prophet Esay, Esa. 40.6. All flesh is grass, and all the goodliness thereof is as the flower of the Field; where that glorious grace which man hath from God, is called mercy, grace or bounty. 2. It signifieth one, that upon the sense of Gods mercy freely vouchsafed to him, doth address himself to the studious practice of piety towards God, and of kindness and mercy towards men, that publiquely and privately he might approve himself unto the Lord, and unto men. For the love of God doth work us to the similitude of it: he cannot but love God and his neighbour, that hath tasted of the Lords free grace and tender compassion. Neh. 13.14. Wipe not out [saith Nehemiah] my kindness that I have done for the House of my God. Hos. 6.6. I desire mercy, and not sacrifice. Psal. 18.25. With the Mercifull thou wilt shew thy self Mercifull; that is, thou wilt bless and do good to them, that love thee and be mercifull towards their Brethren.
Q. Let us hear what is the happy estate of them that be thus qualified.
A. 1. God is the Defender of the Mercifull; though they be opposed and oppressed,P ov. 2.8. P…al. 18.25. Psal. 37.28. Jer. 7.5.7. they shall not be overthrown. The Lord forsaketh not the godly bountifull, they are preserved for ever. He will keep the feet of his Mercifull Ones, 1 Sam. 2.9. 2. God will give peace and prosperity with all good blessings necessary, unto his Mercifull Ones, that have made Covenant with him. Psal. 85.8. I will hear what the Lord God will speak: for he will speak peace unto his people, and to his Mercifull or gracious Saints; that is, he will load them with all blessings, specially with inward peace and comfort of the Holy Ghost. For the Lords words are effectuall; he speakes in wrath to the wicked, when by his fearfull Judgments he maketh it appear that he was angry with them: and he makes peace to his people when he restores tranquillity,Psal. 133.3. Psal. 42.8. & 44.4. subduing or scattering their enemies, and bringing them to confusion. For the commands of God are joyned with effect, power, authority and speed: he commandeth blessings when in truth he powreth them upon such as call upon his Name. 3. The Lord doth nurture them by afflictions that they will look to themselves, and not provoke him by their wickedness as heretofore: and he doth look upon them in mercy and send deliverance, that they shall not despaire and sinke under the burden of calamities. He will speak peace to his people, that they may not return again to folly. 4. The Mercifull shall sing for joy of heart.Psal. 132, 9.16. Let thy gracious Saints shout aloud for gladness, they shall be gladsome in glory, with exceeding great joy. Nor is this their joy momentayn, as is the joy of the wicked,Psal. 149.5. which vanisheth as a shadow: but such wherein they constantly rest. 5, This comely honour God giveth to his gracious Saints, even to bind Princes in Chaines, Psal. 149.5. Psal. 4.3.and Nobles in Fetters of Iron; to execute upon them the Judgment written. 6. God hath wonderfully separated to himself the Mercifull man, and will hear when he crieth.
Q What are the proper Fruits or Evidences of those Mercifull Ones?
A. 1. They will cry unto the Lord in distress, and with confidence make their supplications unto him. Preserve my soul, for I am one whom thou favorest: O thou my God, save thy servant, that trusteth in thee. 2.Psal. 32.6. Psal. 86.1, 2. The love of God which shineth upon them, doth inflame their hearts to love him intirely. O love the Lord all ye his gracious Saints: Psal. 31.23.for the Lord preserveth the faithfull; and plentifully rewardeth the proud doer. 3. They bless the Lord with cheerfull hearts, and sing aloud of his praise.…sal. 149.1, 9. Psal. 145.10, 11. Psal. 97.12. Thy gracious Saints shall bless thee. They shall speak of the Glory of thy Kingdom, and talke of thy power, Psal. 30.4.Psal. 97.12. Sing unto the Lord [O ye his Mercifull Ones] and give thanks to the remembrance of his holiness. 4. They are bountifull to the needy, and give liberally. The Mercifull man doeth good to his own soul, Prov. 11.17. In this sentence Solomon describes the practice of the godly, and the benefit of his course: he is inclined to mercy, and fruit returnes into his own bosome. For besides the conscience of well-doing which doth sweetly refresh, liberality doth open the Fountain of Gods blessings, which doth plentifully water us with store and variety of good things.Eccl. 11.…. with Esa. 32.20. The godly poor are the Lords rich soile, which being sowed, the Almes-deeds do return an hundred-fold increase to them by whom they were dressed.
Q. What Ʋse is to be made of this Point?
A. The world is much deceived in their censure, when they judge the righteous to be utterly lost and forsaken, because they are afflicted for a time. The sonnes of men insult over the Generation of the Just, Psal. 4.2. As if they should never rise when they are once down; yea, as if there were no help for them in God. But the Scripture assureth us, that they are the men of Gods speciall favour, which he hath wonderfully separated to himself,Psal. 4.3. and will compass about with mercy and loving kindness. In all their sufferings the Lord suffers with them. He filles up their prayers, puts their teares into the bottell, numbreth their stripes, preserves their blood, enricheth them with grace, and will bring them to glory. 2. The slander of the ungodly is hence confuted, that condemne such as professe Religion for cruelty, unmercifulness, hard dealing: whereas none but they that have received mercy of the Lord, have learned to put on the bowels of mercy and compassion.
Q. What other Title is given to them that walke in the fear of God?
A. They are called the Excellent or Glorious.Psal. 16.3. 1 Pet. 2.9. Eph. 5.26, 27. Isa. 61.7. In this world they are despised, afflicted, and counted as the off-scouring of all things: but in the Judgment of God, who esteemeth all things according to their worth, they are the onelyonly men of renown upon earth.
Q. Why are they said to be Excellent or Glorious?
A. They are borne of God, adopted to be his Sonnes,1 Joh. 12.13, Rom. 8.17. Jam. 2.5. and intitled to the Inheritance of Eternall Glory. If Nobility of Birth or greatness of Inheritance procure respect to men upon earth; worthy is every Child of God to have the preheminence herein. 2. They are arrayed with the comely Robes of Christs righteousness, which makes them bright and splendent in the sight of God. Their food is heavenly Manna, fatness and marrow in the Sanctuary. 3. They beare the Image of God, and be enriched with righteousness and true holiness,Psal. 45.13. Can. 6.10. Jam. 2.…. Prov. 3.14, 15. then which graces nothing is more eminent. If men be famous for their gifts, they must be the most glorious, that do most resemble God: for those gifts are the best, that make likest unto our heavenly Father. Prov. 12.26. The righteous is better or more excellent then his neighbour; better beloved and graced of God, more esteemed of godly wise men, and hath that in him which maketh him more commendable then any other that is unrighteous and sinfull. As any person or thing is more holy, it is more honourable. though a man should be able to speak with the tongue of men and Angels, and could move Mountaines,1 Cor. 3.1, 2, 3. or work Wonders; yet, if destitute of true righteousness, he is in no sort to be compared to them that fear God 4. The acts of the righteous are surpassing valourous,…hil. 4.13. Gal 5.21. noble, and praise-worthy. For they deny themselves, overcome their passions, renounce the world, endure hardness with patience, stand fast in the profession of the truth against all opposition;1 Sam. 24.10.11. set light by the reproach and disgrace of the world, that they might approve themselves unto God, forgive their enemies, put Satan to flight, and triumph over the powers of darkness. These are true Heroicall Acts exceeding whatsoever hath been undertaken with skill and cost in the daies of peace, or with wisdome and manhood in the time of war. The Heathen man can tell us, He is stronger that conquereth himself, then he that winneth a well-fenced City. The Treasure of the righteous is the Word of God. They dwell in the Church the House of God.Heb. 1.14. …sal. 91.11. They have free access to God, Deut 4.6. 5. The holy Angels are appointed to Minister unto, and guard them against all evil; yea, the wicked are made servants to them, so farre as shall be for their good. Strangers shall stand and feed your Flockes, and the Sonnes of the Alients shall be your Plow-men, and your Vine-dressers, Isa 61.5. 6. After this life ended they shall be put in actuall possession of that glory,Co…. 3.…. 1 J…h. 3.2. 1 Ths 2.12. to which they are of grace adopted. The Crown of Glory which never withereth, shall be set upon their heads, and they shall abide with the Lord for ever in unspeakable blessedness.
Q. What Ʋse is to be made hereof?
A. 1. The sincere worshipers of God are to be observed with great attention, that we take speciall care to gather our selves into their society. Which we shall do if we truly repute with our selves what is true Dignity and Excellency, and be not dazled with the pompe of the world. A good man honoureth them that fear the Lord,Psal. 15.4. 2. The judgment of the world is erroneous touching true excellency: For if comparison be made betwixt man and man, he is esteemed the most noble, that is most honourably descended, of the ancientest stock, hath the largest demeanes, is best underpropped with riches, friends, honours. Piety and justice clean cast out,Jam. 2 2.3, 12. Isa. 57.12.20. as not worthy to ascend into the Balance; nay, they are imputed as matters of disgrace and infamy. But the judgment of God is, that Piety is the truest Nobility: the rich in Faith, not the weighty in Purse, are honourable with him.1 Tim. 2.9, 10 Prov. 1.9, 10. Grace is the best gift, good works the richest clothing, that doth most commend. The Just man, though basely borne, meanly clad, many waies afflicted, and had in reproach, is incomparably more excellent then he, that abounding with all heaped store of good things for this present life, is destitute of saving grace.Jer. 5.1. 3. This may comfort the godly against the scorne and contempt that is cast upon them, when the ungodly live in credit and prosperity. What though men despise and tread them under-feet, when they are approved, esteemed, respected of God? The world knoweth not their worth, cannot judg of their happiness; and then no marvell if they judge amisse. Nay, to suffer reproach or loss for Christs sake, is greater honour then all the praise or applause of the world. Honour is the sharpest spurre to prick men forward to any action, let it force us upon this of seeking to be renewed according to the Image of God, Lev. 19.2. Heb. 11.26.
Q. What is a fourth Title given unto them?
A. They are called True or Faithfull.Psal. 101.6, Psal. 31.23. Act. …6.15. Apoc. 7.14. Deut. 32.20. Mine eyes shall be upon the Faithfull of the Land. The Lord keepeth the Faithfull. And the wicked are said to be a Nation or people in whom is no faith.
Q Why are they called Faithfull?
A Because they do soundly, constantly, inseparably adhere to the Lord, and keep their conjugall love, and cleave to the whole word of God,Neh 9.8. Act. 16.1. Esa. 1.21. Psal. 12.1. Eph. 1.1. even to all the Promises and Commandements of the Lord. Herein is required, Firist, Faith uniting to Christ. He cannot be faithfull, that hath not a justifying faith, whereby he is made a lively Member of Christ Jesus. Secondly, Constant and sound adherence to all the Precepts of God, with an upright performance of all holy Promises, which in distress inward or outward were made unto God. And therefore the Israelites are charged not to be faithfull, because they sought God in their affliction, Psal. 78.8.37.but rebelled against him most unthankfully, when the visitation was removed. Thirdly, Sincerity and purity in Gods worship, without the mixture of vaine inventions, or the veile of hypocrisie. And thus Judah is said to be faithfull with God: because as yet the worship of God was preserved amongst them in the ancient purity, in which the old Patriarchs and Saints did worship the God of their Fathers,Hos. 11.11. according to his revealed will. Fourthly, Faithfulness is exercised in the conscionable improvement of the Gifts, Graces, and Talents received, to the glory of God, the increase of our Gifts, and the inriching of our souls with true spirituall gaine. And thus he is said to be a good and faithfull Servant, Mat. 25.22, 23.that having received five Talents, hath gained with them five more, &c. Fifthly, It shews it self in dilligence, constancy, and care to promote and further the causes of God, and the Church, with the conscionable discharge of all such duties as belong unto that service Thus Timothy is praised to be faithfull in the Lord, 1 Cor. 4.17. And thus the Apostles or Apostolique men were faithfull, when they could do nothing against the truth, but for the truth. Sixthly, Faithfulness implies courage for the truth in the time of persecution and danger, yea for every part of it, great and small. Moses will not leave one horse hoof behind him in Aegypt. Be faithfull unto the death, and I will give thee the Crown of life, Rev. 2.10. Seventhly, The faithfull do with all dilligence and singleness of heart, look to the full discharge of the duties of their Calling, in the severall branches of it,Psal. 101.6. Heb. 3 2. Numb. 12.7. 1 Sam. 2.35. & 3.20. Dan. 6.4, 5. 1 Sam. 22.14. whether they be concerning things spirituall or temporall. It is noted of Moses, that he was faithfull in the House of God, delivering to the people Israel all the Statutes and Ordinances of the Lord without addition or diminution. It was a singular praise in Daniel, that when his enemies sought occasion against him, they could finde none concerning the Kingdom, he was so faithfull and without blame. Eighthly, Faithfulness is seen in the right use and profitable disposing of our riches, and those outward blessings God hath given us He that is faithfull in that which is least,Luk. 16.9, 10, 11. is faithfull also in much: and he that is unjust in the least, is unjust also in much. If therefore ye have not been faithfull in the unrighteous Mammon, who will commit to your trust the true Treasure? Ninthly, The faithfull are wary in counsell to advise what is right, to speak the truth, to deale plainly, and to walke honestly. A faithfull Witness will not lie. A faithfull man shall abound with blessings. Prov. 14.5. Prov. 28.20. Prov. 13.17. Neh. 13.13. Prov. 20.6. 2 Chro. 34.10.12. 2 King. 22.7.A faithfull man, who can finde? It is noted of the Work-men that had the oversight of the House of the Lord, in the daies of Josiah, that they did the work of the Lord faithfully.
Q. What be the Priviledges of the Faithfull?
A. 1. God will be faithfull to them in the accomplishment of all his Promises. Esa. 26.2. He will restore perfect Peace to the Nation that keepeth the truth, and preserve them that be faithfull in his Covenant. 2. The faithfull shall abound in blessings temporall and spirituall.Psal. 31.23. Prov. 28.20. To him that hath shall be given, and he shall have in abundance, Luk. 19.26. The Lord will trust them with the Pearles of his grace, that are carefull to improve them to most advantage; He shall not want a competent stock of spirituall things, that will trade with them dilligently to bring increase. 3. To the faithfull shall be a firme reward. Be faithfull to the death, and I will give thee the Crown of life. What danger would not the godly undergo willingly, being assured of such a reward? To exchange this present life, for eternall Life, what better Merchandize? Is not this more then a thousand for one?
Q. What other Titles are given to them in Scripture?
A. They are the Elect and Chosen of God, actually separated and effectually sequestered from the world and worldly courses to the practice and profession of piety and godlinesse.Apoc. 17.14. Col. 3.12. They which are with him, are called, and chosen, and faithfull; As the Elect of God, holy and beloved, put on the bowels of mercies, &c. So John, 2 Joh. 1. writeth to the Elect Lady, and her Children: unless Elect be rather put for Excellent. So Paul, Rom. 16.13. Salute Rufus chosen in the Lord; that is, Excellent or renowned in faith or honesty. Most plain is that of the Apostle, Ye are a chosen Generation, 1 Pet. 2.9. And thus may that of our Saviour be understood, Many are called, but few chosen, Mat. 20.16. & 22.14.
Q. What are the Priviledges of the Elect?
Deut. 10.25. Deut. 26.18, 19. Phil. 3.14. Heb. 3.1. Esa. 56.5. Zeph. 3.19, 20 Psal. 135.4. Jer. 13.11. & 33.9. Esa. 41.8, 9, 11, 12.A. 1. The Lord doth ever avouch them for his peculiar people, to make them high in praise and in honour: He will own them as his portion that he hath taken to himself out of the whole earth. As the girdle cleaveth to the Loynes of a man, so have I caused to cleave unto me the whole house of Israel, and the whole house of Judah, saith Jehova: that they might he unto me for a people, and for a name, and for a praise, and for a glory. 2. The Lord will helpe them and comfort them in all strife, he will be a wall of fire round about them, and the glory in midst of them: but the men of their strife shall surely perish, and come to nothing. 3. The Lord hath covenanted to write his Law in their hearts, Deut. 26.18. And to put his fear in the inner man, that they shall not depart from his fear, Jer. 31.33. Which as he hath promised in mercy, he will effect by Operation of his grace. 4. The chosen of the Lord shall be satisfied with the abundant good things of his house, the comforts of his grace and presence. Blessed is the man whom thou choosest, and takest near unto thy self, he shall dwell in thy Courts; we shall be satisfied with the good things of thy Palace, Psal. 65.4. He will use them as friends, he will hear their prayers, and communicate his secrets unto them. Now since this is the state of the godly, let us continually take unto us the words of the Psalmist, Remember me, O Lord, with the favour of thy people, and visit me with thy salvation, that I may see the felicity of thy Chosen, and rejoyce in the joy of thy people, and glory with thine Inheritance, Psal. 106.4.5.
Q. But we see it often falleth out in the world, that falshood and deceit have the upper-hand, when the cause of God goeth to the wall, and the godly be overcome of their enemies
A. We must needs confess and acknowledge, that those are the most profound waies of God, whose counsels are above our reach: But if we shall go into the Sanctuary of the Lord, there we shall understand the reason of these his wonderfull works, and be made to know that there is just cause of that his proceeding, both in respect of the godly, and the ungodly, of his people, and of their enemies.Luk. 18.7. There we shall learn, that God is patient and long suffering, who can indure that his cause and the cause of his people should be hindred for a time, and that the ungodly domineer; not that he is mindless of his glory, and the prosperity of his servants: but that his honour might be the more advanced, when once he begins to drive back his enemies, and to lift up the heads of his Children, which before were dejected and cast down. Hear what the Lord to this end saith by his Prophet; The earth mourneth and languisheth, Lebanon is ashamed and hewen down, Sharon is like a Wilderness, and Basan and Carmell shake off their fruits; now will I rise saith the Lord, [seeing my people are so much confounded, and every man thinketh, they are wholly overthrown] now will I be exalted, now will I lift up my self, Esa. 33.9, 10. I have long time holden my peace, saith he;Esa. 42.14. I have been still and refrained my self, now will I cry like a travelling Woman, I will destroy and devoure at once, the enemies of my people. This is Gods purpose when he suffereth his people for a time to be over-run and mastered by their enemies: which if we consider well, we will no longer be abashed thereat, nor stumble at Gods works, though things go never so cross for a time with his people. When we read of the prosperity of Haman that cruell and sworne enemy of Gods people, and understand that he prevailed so farre that all the people of Israel were judged to die, and that he being their greatest and most bitter enemy, had the execution thereof committed to him, would not men conclude, looking upon the outward untoward proceedings, that the Lord had abandoned and forsaken his people Israel; and yet we know in the end, all the circumstances of that business, did make much for the comfort of the godly, and the honour of God; the insolency of the enemy, the poor and weak condition of the Israelites appointed to destruction, did turn to the praise of God. So wonderfull is the Lord in his works: whereby it appeareth, that even then when he suffereth the cause of his people in a manner to fall unto the ground, he still holdeth the rudder in his hand, and hath an eye on them, and a care that they shall not altogether be overthrown.
Q. What are Signes or Testimonies of this Election?
A. 1. They fly the corruptions of the world through lust,2 Pet. 1.4. and compose their lives according to the policy of the New Jerusalem. 2. They are arrayed with the comely Garment of Compassion, Gentleness, Meekness, Love, &c. 3.Col. 3.12, 13. Their study and endeavour is, to joyn to their Knowledge Faith, &c.
But it followeth next to speak of the Forme and Parts of a godly life, where these things will come to be handled.
The End of the First Book.