The Power of Godliness, Book 1 · Chapter 7
CHAP. VII. The Sixth Property of a godly life, viz. Righteousnesse. Of the Signification of the Word Righteous; And how the godly (in a Gospell sense) may be said to be Righteous. What things Righteousnesse implies; and wherein the Nature of it consists. Sundry Reasons to perswade us to labour after it. Encouragements to continue in a Righteous course notwithstanding all opposition. Lastly, The Evidences or Tokens of true Righteousnesse, with the meanes to be used for the strengthining and preserving thereof.
Gen. 6.9. Luk. 2.25. Mat. 23.35. Mat. 9 13. & 23.28. Luk. 18.9. Mat. 1.…8. Psal. 24.5. & 33.5. 1 Sam. 12 7. Psal. 103.6, 17 Dan. 9.16. 2 Cor. 9.9, 10. Act 3.14. & 7.52. Mat. 27.19.4.24.Q. WHat is the sixth Property of a godly life?
A. It must be just and righteous. Noah, Simeon, Abel, are said to be just, and righteous men.
Q. What doth the Word righteous signifie?
A. 1. They that seeme just, but are not purged from their iniquity, are called righteous: because they are such in their own conceits. 2. Just is taken for good, bountifull, or mercifull; one that is ready to bestow favour or compassion: in which sense it is many times said that God is righteous. 3. It imports one that is perfect and holy, free from all spot and staine of sin. So Christ is called the Just One. 4. He is said to be just, that is true and faithfull in his dealings betwixt man and man, one that respects equity and right in his Calling: in which sense true and sincere speeches are called righteous or just. 5. A man that is regenerated by the Spirit, justified by faith, and that exerciseth himselfe in the practice of righteous and holy things, specially in the duties of mercy and justice betwixt man and man, is ordinarily said to be just or righteous.Act. 22.14. Luk 23.50. Prov. 16.13. Luk. 1.6. Apoc. 22.11. Mat. 13.17. & 23.29. & 10.41. Mar 6.20. Tit. 1.8.
1 King 8.46. Job. 2….4. Rom 3.23. Joh. 3.6. 1 Thes. 5.23. Gal. 5.17. Psal. 143.2. 1 Joh. 1.8. Act. 3.39. Rom. 5.11. Esa. 56.1. Rom. 1.16, 17. 2 Cor. 5.21. Phil. 3.9. Joh. 1.13.Q. There is none righteous, no not one.
A. There is none righteous of himselfe, by nature; for all have sinned, all are conceived in sinne; and that which is borne of the flesh, is flesh. Again, there is none perfectly righteous in respect of grace infused, or obedience proceeding from it: for we know but in part, our sanctification is imperfect in degree. But the godly are righteous by imputation, being justified by faith, and acquitted from the guilt and punishment of sinne, which righteousnesse is called the righteousnesse of God, and the righteousnesse which is of. God by faith. And they are righteous also by Regeneration, Sanctification, and Workes of holinesse: But this righteousnesse is onelyonly in part, begun here, increasing daily by degrees, to be perfected in Heaven. The Elect are borne anew of the immortall Seed, have put off the old man, are renewed in the spirit of thir minde, are dead unto sinne: but their renovation is not perfect in degrees, the reliques of the old man do still abide in them, sinne hath received his deaths wound, but is not utterly abolished. Therefore it may truly be affirmed,Job 9.20. that they are both righteous and unrighteous, in respect of righteousnesse which is called inherent: unrighteous in themselves, righteous in Christ;1 Cor. 6.11. unrighteous by nature, renewed by grace; unrighteous by the workes of nature,1 Joh. 3.8.9. Ex. 28.38. righteous by the acts of righteousnesse; unrighteous in respect of the remainders of sinne, righteous in respect of the truth of holinesse. The workes that proceed from the flesh, abiding in them are filthy;Job 14.4. but they that proceed from the Spirit are acceptable,Phil. 4.18, 19. being perfumed with the sweet Odours of Christs Sacrifice.
Q. How can the godly be said to be righteous any more then the temporary Christian, if his righteousnesse be imperfect?
A. The intire nature of righteousnesse is to be found in them in respect of parts, essentiall and integrall, if we may so speake: but the full perfection of parts is wanting. As a Childe in the Mothers Wombe, hath all the parts of man, but not the perfection of stature, wit, &c.
Q. What things doth righteousnesse imply?
A. 1. It presupposeth a sovereigne and unfained faith,Esa. 26.2. Heb. 11.6. without which it is impossible to please God. But this justice hath in common with truth, integrity, and uprightnesse: for faith is the root of them all. 2. It implies the renovation of our nature according to the Image of God, in true righteousnesse,Eph. 4.24. which is part of the divine quality begun in us: for no man can be righteous before he be renewed into righteousnesse by the holy spirit. 3.Act. 24.16. Heb. 13.18. Psal. 119.3. Isa. 1.16, 17. It notes a deliberate, constant, and well-advised purpose and determination to do that which is just and equall in the sight of God, notwithstanding all allurements and temptations to the contrary. Deut. 5 29. Oh, that there were in my people such an heart, to feare me alwaies. Thus, Paul and Barnabas exhorted the Antiochians with purpose of heart to cleave unto the Lord. 4. It comprehends a constant, and a continuall practice of all good according as the Lord affords opportunity and meanes which must be alwaies, and with respect to all Gods Commandements.1 Reg. 8.32. Act. 10.35. Rom. 6.13, 14. Heb. 11.33. 1 Joh. 2.29. Psal. 112.3, 9. Luk. 1.6. Deut. 16.20. Psal. 15.2. Psal. 7.9, …1. 1 Joh. 3.8. He that doth righteousnesse, is righteous. Here the worke done is called righteousnesse, to wit, of course, conversation, or worke. Riches and plenteousnesse shall be in his house, and his righteousnesse endureth for ever, Psal. 112.3, 9. Zachary and Elizabeth were both just before God, and walked in all the Statutes and Ordinances of the Lord. Blessed are they that keep Judgement, and he that doth righteousnesse at all times, Psal. 106.3. Justices, Justice shalt thou follow; that is, all manner of Justice, and nothing but Justice exactly, carefully, and continually shalt thou follow. He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousnesse. And it shall be our righteousnesse, Deut. 6.25. Vid. Jun. Dial. in Deut. 6.25.if we observe to do all these Commandements before the Lord our God, as he hath commanded us. 5. In respect of our daily weaknesse, which doth dint, and bruise this breast-plate, there must be sorrow and humble confession of sinne, with seeking pardon: this doth beate it forth againe, and underline it, that it is as serviceable to us as ever. Forgive us (we say) daily our trespasses, for our righteousnesse is rather in unfained purpose, then exact performance, rather in confession of imperfection, then in any perfection we can attaine.
Q. Doth the nature of this righteousnesse stand in practice?
A. No: But in conformity of heart, joyned with a sound, deliberate, well-rooted purpose to do whatsoever the Lord hath commanded. For a man truely converted at his last gaspe, is just and righteous, though for lacke of opportunity he never do good work. But this purpose is such as must be produced into act, as the Lord shall offer ability and meanes. And of this will it is true, that the Lord accepteth it for the deed: but as for those wishes or slight purposes which never come to performance, not for want of meanes, but through sicklenesse and change of will,Deut. 5.29. they are of no esteeme with God.
Q. Is not continuance in well-doing the cause, why our righteousnesse is true?
A. True righteousnesse is constant, but truth doth make it constant, not constancy true.Mat. 13.22, 23. Grace doth endure because it is true; It is not true because it doth abide.
Q What Reasons may perswade us to labour after righteousnesse?
A. 1. Righteousnesse is a Christian Garment, that doth adorne more then Gold or Silver;Joh. 29.13, 43. Isa. 59.17. Eph. 6.14. Esa. 59.17. yea, it is a Breast-plate to defend the heart and vitall part, against all the temptations and assaults of Sathan. When the Devill doth tempt us to sinne, if the breast be covered with a firme constant resolution and bent of will to shunne, dislike and abhorre whatsoever is evill and unjust, but to approve follow, delight in, and practice whatsoever things are honest, pure, of good report; then his suggestions will fall down like Paper-shot, and shall not peirce us. Gen. 39.10. How can I do this great wickednesse, and so sinne against God? And he who looketh to be preserved in manifold temptations to sinne, and to keep in obedience to all kinde of duties, both towards God and men, had need to have no lesse then this firmenesse and determinate purpose of a Christian heart. How can any man walke innocent or harmelesse among his neighbours, though others should walke so towards him, except he had armed himselfe with this cogitation, to do no man any wrong? and not onelyonly so, but to do no other iniquity or evill, which might offend any, or wound his own soul? How many waies shall a Christian that truly hateth sinne, be carried into sinne against God and his neighbour, if he indent not from time to time afresh with his heart against all unrighteousnesse and parts of unholy life? And therefore St Pauls teaching the Corinthians, how they should be prepared for the Encounter, doth among the rest, commend unto them the Armour of righteousnesse, 2 Cor. 6.7. both on the right hand, and on the left, that is, in prosperity and adversity, that so they should give no occasion of offence in any thng, but in all things approve themselves as the Servants of God.Mat. 5.16. 1 Pet. 3.1, 2.16.10. If we be derided for our Profession, we may cloath our selves with righteous and innocent dealing, as with a Garment, and weare it as an Ornament. If challenged as hypocrites, the righteousnesse of our course doth manifest the soundnesse of our faith, and approve it pure as Gold tried in the Furnace. When men shall load us with prejudicate Opinions, condemning us without cause of misbehaviour or indirect dealing in our Place or Office: this will beare it off, I know nothing by my selfe, I care not for mans judgment, 1 Cor. 4.3. As touching me, I care very little to be judged by you. When the Devill telleth us, Thou art not elected, thou hast no faith, thou art not sanctified.1 Joh. 2.29. All doth come before the Tribunall of righteousnesse, this confirmeth to us our election, and actuall separation from the world. 2 Pet. 1.10. Wherefore Brethren, give rather diligence to make your Calling and Election sure. This assureth us that our faith is unfained, our sinnes forgiven, and we sanctified. 1 Joh. 3.7, 8. He that doth righteousnesse, is righteous. If we walke in the light, as he is in the light, then have we fellowship with the Father, and the blood of Jesus cleanseth us from all sinne. 1 Joh. 1 6, 7.He is made good in some measure, that doth good in any true measure The Fruite discovers the quality and sap of the Tree.Job. 11.18, 19. 2. Righteousnesse is the foundation of good courage and holy security.Prov. 28.1. Job 5 22. Psal 3.5, 6. The righteous are bold as a Lyon, notwithstanding all the malice, might, and craft of wicked men, which set themselves against them; neither can any other accidents or occurrences dismay or daunt them; for they are perswaded of the verity of Gods Promises, with the sufficiency of his Power, and have a sure apprehension both of his presence and goodnesse. He will not be afraid of evill tidings, his heart is fixed and believeth in the Lord: he will not fear untill he see his desire upon his enemies. 3. None can be safe here, or saved hereafter, but the righteous Nation. The righteous shall inherite the Land; Psal. 37.29. Psal. 118.20. Psa…. 15.2. Esa. 26 2. Psal. 1.6.the righteous shall dwell in the holy Hill of the Lord. The Lord knoweth, regardeth, favoureth, takes care of the righteous. Our Saviour saith plainly, Except your righteousnesse, shall exceed the righteousnesse of the Scribes and Pharisees, ye cannot enter into the Kingdome of Heaven, Mat. 5.21. Righteousnesse delivereth from death, and all miseries of this life.Prov. 11.4. & 10.2. …rov. 12.28. & 11.19. Life is in the way of righteousnesse, and in that path-way, there is no death. The meaning is, that they which are righteous men, justified by the obedience of Christ, sanctified by his Spirit, and obedient to his will in working that which is agreeable to his Word, are in a state of life everlasting. The life of grace they have in possession already; the life of Glory is assured unto them by the Promise of God, whereof he hath given them an earnest and pawne, in that he hath raised them from the death of sinne, to the life of righteousnesse: for whosoever hath the one, can never faile of the other. And therefore it is said, that there is no death in that path. They are delivered from the first death, which hath power over all sinfull men in this world: and they shall never come into the second, which is the portion of reprobates in the world to come. At the day of Judgment only the righteous shall be acquitted, and received into Glory,Mat. 13 43. & 25 37 46. Luk. 14 14. Prov. 10.3. & 13.29. Prov. 11 6. & 15.6. as the righteous are assured of Peace and Glory in the Life to come, so be they of safety, peace and comfort in this life, if it be for their good. The Lord will not famish the soul of the Just. Good men are not unprovided of food, because they are unfurnished of wealth. The righteousnesse of the Just delivereth them out of dangers, out of troubles, out of feares, out of temptations, from destruction; yet not by strength of its own, but by the power of God: not according to their worthinesse in way of desert, but according to his goodnesse in way of reward: not extended to all men that doe good workes, but restrained to just men whose works are good Righteousnesse doth keep the perfect in the way; that is,Prov. 13.6. Psal. 37.25, 26 & 34.9. …0. Gods favour, grace, and goodnesse, for and by righteousnesse doth protect the Just; yea, righteousnesse it self is as a guard to provide and defend them from approaching dangers. If the righteous fall seven times, he shall rise againe, Prov. 24.16. The Lord upholdeth the Just, Psal. 37.15. If he come into many troubles, and that very oft, by the gracious hand of God he shall be delivered out of them all. It is a similitude from Chrildren led of their Parents, who through weaknesse do sometimes stumble and fall to the ground, but be neither hurt with the fall, nor helplesse that they should not be taken up againe. God is ever at the right hand of the just to save and deliver them. He is in the Generation of the Just. The Name of the Lord is a strong Tower, the righteous fly unto it, Prov. 18.10.Esa. 3.10. Psal. 34.19. Job 5.19. Psal. 73.23. Psal. 16.8. Psal. 14.5. Prov. 14.34. Deut. 28.12, 13. Righteousnesse is the way to honour and promotion in this life, as well as of Glory in the world to come. Righteousnesse exalteth a Nation. The Phrase of speech is emphaticall, for by a Prosopopie hands are ascribed to justice, whereby a Nation is exalted and set on high. As if it had been said, although no man should favour that Nation, yet justice which it exerciseth, will not suffer it, to lie neglected. To the righteous good shall be repaid, Prov 13.21. In the house of the righteous is much Treasure, Prov. 15.6. 4. The way of the Just is full of comfort.Job. 36.7. …sal. 33 1.32.11. For the Just man is as day, which shining in the morning, is by degrees carried forward to perfection. The beginning of comfort is like the dawning of the day, the proceeding as a fiery Sun-shine morning, the fulnesse and perfection, which is perpetuall and without declining, is like a Noon-tide, or the midst of a Summers day. The righteous shall sing and rejoice. 5.Prov. 10.24. Psal. 34.…5.…7. & 97.12. Psal. 33.1. Prov. 15.24. 1 Pet. 3.14. The service of the Just is acceptable to the Lord; he regardeth their Prayers, fulfilleth their desires for good, and is delighted with their thanksgivings. The eyes of the Lord are over the the righteous; and his eares are open unto their cry. It becomes the just to sing praises. The Lord heareth the Prayers of the righteous. 6. The Just are blessed in their sufferings and temptations, for the Lord corrects them in love to open their eares,Job 36.8, 9. 1 Pet. 4.14. Psal. 37.32, 33 Prov. 12.13. Prov. 11.8. Psal. 34.19. Prov. 10.25, 30. and bring them to the acknowledgement of their iniquity. His Spirit is present with them to teach and instruct what use is to be made of the chastisement; to support and comfort them under it: And in due time he will deliver and bring them to honour. Many are the troubles of the righteous, but the Lord delivereth them out of all. 7. The righteous is an everlasting foundation; their blessedness hath a setled safety, as a foundation that cannot be shaken: yea, they are not onelyonly unmoveable themselves, but the very stay of the world. The roote of the righteous shall not be moved. Isa. ….23. Prov. …2.3. Zach. 12.3. Job 4.7. Psal. 37.25, 26 Prov. 11.21. Psal. 102.28. Psal. 89.28, 29 Prov. 12.7. & 20.7.They be assaulted, but cannot be thrown down. In their own person they are stable, but much more in their Posterity. The Seed of the righteous shall be delivered. The Children of thy Servant shall continue. 8 A just man is of great price and worth. Prov. 12.26. The righteous is more excellent then his neighbour. More excellent in nobility of Stocke, in Inheritance, in Ornaments and Diet; He is better beloved and graced of God, and more esteemed of godly wise men, and hath that in him, which maketh him more commendable then any other that is unrighteous and sinfull. The fruit of the righteous is as a Tree of Life, Prov. 11.30. The Holy Ghost compareth him not to every Tree of the Garden, but to the most excellent: to note, that as he is very plentifull in bringing forth Fruit, so his Fruit is exceeding profitable to them that receive it; but most of all to himselfe. And if we look into the comparison, we shall finde the Fruites of a righteous man, in excellency farre to exceed the Fruit of the Tree of Life. As the Life of Grace is more excellent then the life of nature; so is the Fruit of Righteousnesse, to the materiall fruit of that Tree. That Tree had power to preserve man persisting in holinesse, from death: but the just man by exhortation, counsell and instruction, may be a meanes to winne them to God, who are dead in sinne. The Fruit of the Tree of Life did profit others, not it selfe: But the Fruit of the righteous is so beneficiall to others, that it is most profitable to himselfe: All the blessing of his goodnesse doth returne into his own bosome. Fruites plucked from the Tree of Life for the use of man, did make, that the more were taken away, the fewer did remaine: But the righteous man doth the more abound with the graces of the Spirit, and the Fruites of holinesse, the more good he doth to others. 9. The hope of the hypocrite shall be cut off: but the patient expectation of the righteous shall be gladnesse: for God will give them the desire of their souls, and fulfill their hope, Prov. 10.28. The righteous hath hope in his death, Prov. 14.32.10. Manifold blessings of all sorts, shall rest upon the head of the righteous. That is, all kinde of happinesse, every good gift that is fit for them,Psal. 58.11. Psal. 72.7. Psal. 92.12. Prov. 11.28. Prov. 10 7. Psal. 112.6. Psal. 37 6. Isa. 57 1, 2. 2 Pet. 2 5, 7. Psal. 37.34. Eze… 4…4.20. Amos 5.15. Zeph. 2.3. Prov. 11.18 To him that loveth r ghteousness. Prov. 15.9. & 21.21. Esa. 51.…. shall be upon the head of the righteous, upon the soul and body of every faithfull man. The righteous shall flourish like the Palme Tree: he shall grow like a Cedar of Lebanon. They shall flourish and abound in blessings here, and their memoriall shall be blessed when they are departed out of this life. He shall bring forth thy righteousness as the light, and thy judgement as the noon-day. 11. The righteous shall be saved in the evill day. God spared not the Old World, but saved Noah the eighth Person, a Preacher of righteousness, and delivered Just Lot, when he overthrew the Cities of the Plaine. When the Lord is so displeased with the wicked, that he will not hear the Prayers of his people for them; yet by their righteousnes they shall deliver their own souls.
Q. Is it sufficient that a man be righteous, may he rest therein?
A. No, but he must proceed in righteousness. Rev. 22.11. Let him that is righteous be righteous still. And not this onelyonly, but he must pursue and follow after righteousness with utmost endeavour. The Lord loveth him that followeth after righteousness: Who is not cold, or slow, or unstable in doing of good? but with might and maine striveth constantly to obtaine the habit and increase of goodness. The Word signifieth earnestly to pursue, being a Metaphor taken from the eagerness of wild Beasts, or ravenous Fowles, or of any kinde of creatures that live by the spoile of others, which will runne or fly, both fast and farre, rather then be disappointed of their Prey. True it is, that all are not of equall graces, not any one at all times equally affected to that which is just and good: but none must leave off endeavour to seeke it. Every man is to make it his gaine,1 Tim. 6.11. 2 Tim. 2.22. Phil. 4.8. and to abandon all the impediments which would stay him from it. Follow righteousness, faith, love, &c. Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, &c. think on these things.
Q. God is mercifull, Christ died for sinners, and will not lose what he hath bought so deare; Why should a man then betake himselfe to such care of his life?
A. God is mercifull to them that fear him,Psal. 103.13, 17. Deut. 29.19, 20. Mat. 9.13. but as for them that blesse themselves in sinne, the Lord will not be mercifull unto them. Christ came to call the sick soule and burdened sinner to repentance, not to foster the secure sinner, in his secure course. Luk. 1.74, 75. Christ hath redeemed us out of the hands of our enemies, that we might serve him in holiness and righteousness all the daies of our life. Christ redeemeth those whom he sanctifieth to be a peculiar People unto him, zealous of good works. Who gave himselfe for us, that he might, redeeme us to be a peculiar People, zealous of good works, Tit. 2.14. The benefits of Christs death are inseparable, as his person is indivisible: he that is justified from sinne by his blood, is sanctified against sinne by his Spirit. Again, the Spirit of of God teacheth us to reason after a contrary manner: There is forgiveness with the Lord, that he might be feared. Ye are bought with a price, Psal. 130.4. 1 Cor. 6.20. Rom 12.1.therefore glorifie God in soul and body. I beseech you through the tender mercies of God, offer up your soules and bodies, as a reasonable Sacrifice unto God.
Q. Though it were requisite we should have all righteousness, Mat. 3.17.yet so much adoe as some make, is needless; a generall profession and honest carriage is sufficient. God spareth us, as a Father spareth his Children.
A. God is exceeding gracious, and takes in good part the willing, though weak, service of his Children. But we must have sound righteousness,1 Cor. 6.9. and endeavour of perfection, though we still come short of what is required. We are not saved for righteousness, but we cannot be saved without it.Mat. 5.20. Tit. 2.12, 13. If your righteousness exceed not the righteousness of the Scribes and Pharisees, ye shall not enter into the Kingdome of Heaven. Though Israel be as the sand of the Sea, yet a remnant onelyonly shall be saved. Not all that say Lord, Lord, Rom. 9.27. Mat. 7.21. 1 Pet. 1.17. Heb 12.14. 2 Cor. 6.17.shall enter into the Kingdome of Heaven. Be ye holy, for I am holy. Come out from among them, and be ye separate, and touch not the uncleane thing, and I will receive you
Q. If we enter the practice of righteousness, will not the Devill break us off by distractions, difficulties, discomforts, and make us yeeld our Weapon as weary?
A. He will do his endeavour: But here the power of Christ, the Authour and finisher of faith, the beginner and perfecter of his own good Work, doth carry us on: and the Seed of God is of such force, that it will not let us fall to sinning. Secondly, The conscience of Gods Commandement on one hand, and the comfort of his acceptance on the other side, do encourage us: so that this assault is frustrate.
Q. Righteousness is much opposed by Sathan and his Instruments, let us therefore hear what encouragments we have to continue in that course.
A. 1. The Wealth of the sinner is laid up for the Just: The wicked may heape up Silver as the dust, and prepare Raiment as the clay: Prov. 13.22. Job. 27.16, 17but the Just shall put it on, and the Just shall divide the Silver. Ungodly men toyle to bring in wealth for them that fear before God: they are Labourers, the other Land-lords of what they possesse. 2. There shall no evill happen to the Just. God in his good providence will prevent the occasions of sinne,Prov. 1….21. Exo. 13.18. 1 Reg. …4.12, 13. 2 Reg. 22.20. that they runne not into it and save them from those evils that overtake the wicked. Afflictions and corrections may come upon the righteous, but no revenging curse tending to destruction, as if they were abjects. Wholesome Medicines (such as crosses are to the godly) are not wont to be ministred in hatred, and with purpose to kill, but in mercy and love for recovery of health, and conservation of life. The just man walketh in his uprightness: thou most upright dost weigh the path of the Just, Esa. 26.7. Prov. 14.19. God will satisfie the soul of the Just in the time of drought, Esa 58.11. 3. The wicked shall bow before the righteous, Herod reverenced John the Baptist; Moses was honoured of the Aegyptians; Joseph, his Brethren were glad to bow before him. Psal. 112.9 His horne shall be exalted with honour. Good men shall not onelyonly be greater then the evill, and had in reputation of them: but the ungodly shall be driven to seek unto them for helpe and favour: as suiters use to waite at the Gates of a great Personage, till either he come forth, or they be let in and admitted into his presence. This abjection of the wicked, and advancement of the godly, is not generall to all in this life, notwithstanding it often befalleth many; but at the day of the Lord, every sinfull wretch shall be taken down with miserable debasement, and every faithfull Christian shall be exalted to a glorious Dignity, when the one sort shall stand at the Barr and be arraigned; the other sit, as it were at the Bench, with Jesus Christ,Psal. 49.14. Prov. 15.6. Prov. 15.16. Psal. 37.16. Prov. 16.8. and be made their Judges. The upright shall h…ve dominion over them in the morning. 4. In the revenues of the wicked is trouble, but the condition of the Just is very comfortable, have they little or much. A little that a righteous man hath, is better then the riches of many wicked. 5. Righteous lips are the delight of Kings: great Personages will affect such as speak with truth, wisdome and faithfulnesse.Prov. 21.21. 6. He that followeth after righteousness and mercy, findeth life, righteousness, and honour. Length of daies, equall dealing from men,Prov. 15 9. Psal. 1.7. Prov. 16.31. favour from God, and eternall glory both in Heaven and Earth, is the Portion, that God vouchsafeth to them that walke in righteousness before him. 7. A righteous person is a joy and comfort to all his friends. The Father of the righteous shall greatly rejoyce, Prov. 23.24. 8. We have many examples of holy men for our encouragement;Gen. 39.10. & 50.15. 1 Sam. 24.17. Dan. 3.16, 17. as Joseph, David, Daniel, Hezekiah, Zachary, Elizabeth, and many others. But we have Paul by Precept and Practice, teaching this point: Whatsoever things are just, &c. think on these things, Phil. 4.8. And we may see, First, How his conscience did not accuse him for time present; As touching me, I passe little to be judged of you, 1 Cor. 4.3. How he endeavoured to keep it so for the time to come; And herein I endeavour alwaies to have a cleare conscience towards God and man, Act. 24.16. And that he was not without his exercise of repentance. Rom. 7. Oh miserable man that I am, &c.
Q. It falleth out oftentimes, that we have a very good desire to do that which we know doth please God; but we finde no strength to performe. And the Apostle himself maketh the same complaint, where he saith, To will is present with me, but I finde no way to accomplish that which I desire.
A. A fervent desire to overcome evill, and to do that is known to be good, without faith in the grace of God to be strengthened and inabled thereunto, is not availeable to a godly life. For this it is that overcometh all lets in the world, and no other thing, Even faith in the grace of Christ, 1 Joh. 5.4. whereby we rest upon him for strength to master our corruptions, and power of grace to live Christianly. True it is, Paul himselfe did not finde grace fully and perfectly to overcome the rebellion of the old man, that is, his corrupt nature: to the end, that he might alwaies have a marke of his unworthiness, and sin remaining in him, and thereby remember, that it was of onelyonly mercy that he was pardoned, and the grace of God that kept him from falling away; that he might be abased in himselfe, and kept humble under so great grace received, and finde sweetness from time to time in the forgivenesse of his sinnes. But though he was not perfect here, as an Angell, yet was he not carried of his lusts into gross iniquity: He was troubled with the rebellion and resistance of good that he found in the flesh: but Gods grace was sufficient to keep him, that he fell not into that depth that he might otherwise easily have done. And we likewise through the same grace in our measure, may look with good cheere to be delivered from the yeelding to our wicked lusts, which most dangerously incumber us: we being resolved, that our heavenly Father (for the tender care he hath over us) is alwaies looking down from Heaven,2 Chro. 16.9. and beholding who is upright-hearted towards him (how weak soever in his own sense and perswasion that he may shew himselfe strong towards him, and thereby supply his weakness. And thus the desire to keep a godly course being soundly planted in us, and the same proceeding from a lively faith, who doubteth but that we may have strength to do such outward duties as are required, though weakly, yet soundly and in truth of heart: to endeavour at least (which God will accept) though we do not alway prevaile over such strong corruptions, as oftentimes for want of such grace doe master us.
Q Sathan by aggravating our imperfections, will offer to wring from us the Testimony of a good conscience, in this wise. Gods eye is too pure to behold any evill: But thy best deeds have been sprinckled with filthiness, thy own conscience hath condemned thee in them, God is greater then thy conscience, &c. How is this to be answered?
A. The answer is by getting a sound knowledge, how farre we are to stand upon the holiness of our purposes or courses; of which, marke these things. First, We do not account of it as able to abide the triall of justice, or to stand for our full righteousness before God. Therefore the things objected may dismay a Papist, they cannot dismay us. 2. We place the strength of our righteosness in these things. First, That it is the qualification of faith whereby we receive remission of sinnes, or of the subject capable of forgiveness. For every faith doth not justifie before God, but that which is lively in operation, conjoyned with an affection of Piety. 2. That it doth testify of our true faith: for a work soundly good in any measure, doth argue an heart good in some measure; for you cannot have a Figge of a Thistle. Now an heart truly good in any measure, doth argue a true and well-rooted faith; for that onelyonly can purifie the heart. 3. In this that we know they are pleasing unto our God: not that they can endure the triall of his justice in themselves, but because faith in Christ doth cover their imperfections: and therefore are justly accepted through grace, when the defect is covered; they being not so much ours, as the work of the spirit,Col. 1.11. the wants set aside.
Q What are the Evidences or Tokens of true Righteousness?
A. First, The heart of the righteous is a rich treasure or store-house, wherein the Law of God is safely laid up. They that know righteousness, are a people in whose heart is the Law. The Law of God is in the heart of the righteous,Isa. 51.7. Deut. 6.6. Prov. 3.3. & 7.3. Psal. 37.31. Prov. 6.21. Prov. 10 20. …rov. 12.5. & 11.23. and therein he doth exercise himself day and night. And when Solomon saith, The heart of the wicked is little worth; by the contrary he would have us to understand, that the heart of the righteous is very pretious. Secondly, The thoughts, devices, counsels of the righteous are right, and their desires only good. Godly men are not altogether void of thoughts that are not right and allowable: sometimes Satan casteth in matter to turn them out of the right course: sometimes their own flesh will play its part, and stirre up desire of commodity, and praise, and pleasures, and such like in them: but these are as the muddiness that may be for a time in a good fountain that is troubled: these they allow not, these they resist, and judg in themselves. The main stream of their desires, the course and current of their heart is to godliness and goodness, though sometimes corruption of nature and tempestuous temptations of Satan do violently drive their thoughts another way. For as corruption of nature reigning in the unregenerate doth send forth evil thoughts, as fruits resembling the quality and disposition of the heart whence they spring; so doth an heart renued by grace frame and devise holy things, as the most immediate fruit of that infused sappe of grace.Prov. 10.20. Prov. 10.11. Isa. 50.4. and 57.18, 19. Thirdly, The tongue of the just is as choice silver, and the mouth of the righteous man a well of life. It doth alwayes flow with wholesome words, which do strengthen and refresh the life of the soul. It is meat to the sound, medicine to the sick, a soveraign cordiall to them that be weary and ready to faint.Prov. 10.31. Psal. 37.30. The mouth of the righteous will be fruitfull in wisdome, and his tongue talketh of judgment. A righteous man will be carefull of his tongue, not only that there be no mixture or filthiness and leudness in his words; but to avoid all superfluous and idle babling, and so to open his mouth with holy wisdome.Prov. 15.28. Fourthly, The heart of the righteous studieth to answer: he meditateth what to speak, that he may produce such matter as is most wholesome and profitable, both in respect of the thing it self, and the circumstances of time, place and persons. A just man will utter nothing hastily, out of passion, blind love, hatred, anger, or other distemper: but he will bridle his tongue by reason,Col. 4.6. Prov 13.5. and look warily to whatsoever doth fall from him. Let your speech be poudred with salt. Fiftly, The righteous man hateth lying or a false matter, even all declining or aberration from the truth, either in word or deed. He doth not only abstain from every false way, but he doth abhorre it in himself and others. Ye that love the Lord, Psal. 97.10. Prov. 29.7. Esa. 26.7.hate evil. Sixthly, The just man walketh constantly in his integrity; that is, without dissimulation he addresseth himself firmly with invincible durance to do whatsoever he knoweth to be good and holy. He walks not at randome, being blindly led with a good intent: but carrieth the light of the Word before him, and doth what it approveth: He is not fickle and inconstant, off and on, but walketh forward in the way of obedience without starting aside.Prov. 21.15. Isa. 64.5. Seventhly, It is joy to the just to doe judgment. The righteous man taketh great delight and pleasure to deal righteously with God, and justly with men, and to be upright in all his actions. For the services of Christians are not enforced by compulsion, but performed with love; and whatsoever love doth, it doth it chearfully and gladly.Psal. 119.47. Psa. 119.16, 24. I will delight my self in thy Commandements, which I have loved. Thy testimonies are my delight. Again, Hope hath a great hand in the works of the righteous, and that doth with all comfort and gladness wait for a reward, accounting all good works which are done in earth, to be certain treasures laid up in Heaven, so that well-doers in the Kingdom of grace, have joy mixed with their righteousness, and in the Kingdom of glory are assured they shall have joy according to their righteousness. A good man hath his greatest comfort in well-doing, it is more pleasant to him than meat and drink. Our Saviour thus testifieth of himself;Joh. 4.34. My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work: unto whose example every just man doth labour in his measure to conform himself. Howbeit this joy is either more or less, according to the degree of their grace; the best feel most, those which have less faith do that which is good with less delight: all do obey God with some gladness, but none with perfection of gladness, because there is not perfection of mortification.Prov. 29.7. Eighthly, The righteous considereth the cause of the poor; that is, doth inform himself by the best means he can of the state and equity thereof, and knowing it, doth approve of it; and himself allowing thereof, doth labour that right may accordingly be yeelded unto it. Hereof Job proposeth himself for an example, saying; I was the eyes to the blind, and I was the feet to the lame: I was a Father to the poor, and when I knew not the cause, I sought it out diligently. I brake also the jawes of the unrighteous man, and plucked the prey out of his teeth. Ninethly,…rov. 29.10. The bloud-thirsty hate the upright, but the just seek his soul: that is, the godly and kind-hearted people care greatly to maintain and defend his life; and heartily desire fellowship and communion with him. As Obadiah did the Prophets, whom he hid from the violent and cruel hand of Achab and Jesabell: and Abedmeleck in speaking to the King in the behalf of Jeremie, that he should not be afamished in the prison.Joh. 9.35, 36. 2 Tim. 1.16, 17. Mat. 10.41. When our Saviour heard that the blind man was cast out of the Synagogue, he came unto him: and Onesimus sought out Paul diligently when he was in prison at Rome. Tenthly, The righteous do rejoyce in the works of God, his judgments upon the wicked, and his mercies towards the poor and needy that put their trust in him. The righteous see it, Psal. 107.43. Job 22.19. …sal. 140.14. & 6.8. Rom. 6.13.18.and are glad. Eleventhly, The just will not forget to give praise unto the Lord. Surely the righteous shall give thanks unto thy Name. Twelfthly, The Just do yeeld themselves as servants to righteousness, and give the members of their body, as weapons of justice to do the pleasure of God. Lastly, The righteous do grieve and mourn for the daily transgressions of the ungodly amongst whom they live. Righteous Lot in seeing and hearing, vexed his soul from day to day,2 Pet. 2.6, 7. Psal. 116.136. with the unlawfull deeds of the Sodomites. Rivers of waters runne down mine eyes; because they keep not thy Law.
Q. How is this Righteousness to be strengthened and preserved?
A. We shall strongly hold this righteousness, if we exercise these things: 1. Labour to give obedience of faith in the least things: for there must be preciseness in keeping Gods Commandements, and we must count nothing little that he commandeth.Prov. 7.2. Solomon will have us keep his precepts as the sight or apple of the eye. The eye is a most noble member, both in use and price, most tender and diligently to be kept; but the black or sight, (which is the light or eye of the eye, by whose force and vertue the whole body is directed,) is the most excellent part of the eye, most tender, and to be heeded with double diligence. Hence when the Lord would significantly declare what favour and love he beareth to his children; he saith, He that toucheth you, toucheth the apple of mine eye. Zech 2.8. Deut. 32.10. Psal. 17.8.So David prayeth, Keep me as the apple of the eye: that is, with that care wherewith men use to keep the black of their eye, which is most respective and heedfull. Wherefore Solomon advising to observe the Commandements as the sight of the eye, doth intimate, that nothing, no not the least is to be admitted, which is contrary to the Law of God: for there is nothing so light or small, which doth not hurt or offend the sight. Moreover, many little sinnes are equivalent to one great. A ship may be laden with small sands; and many drops of rain will cause great brooks to rise. Yea, a small sinne fostered and cherished with indulgence, is more dangerous then a notorious offence, into which a man slippeth once through infirmity. It doth secretly poison the soul, harden the heart, grieve the spirit, and wound conscience. Nor is this all, but little sinnes lived in will make way to greater. Men grow from stealing pinnes to points, from points to pounds. Sinnes are sociable, and linked in confederacie, the lesser creep in at window, to open the door that greater may enter. And every sinne of it self being harboured in the soil of corrupt nature, is thriving, if let alone it will mainly increase. 2. We must renew daily a sorrow for our ordinary and smaller offences: for though it be the weakness of the stomack that is able to bear with nothing that is offensive to it, yet it is a blessed frame of soul, when it cannot digest the least sinne, but is ready to turn at it. 3. We must think what secure and comfortable courses we have, while we keep this purpose and practise of a good conscience; and what a bitterness it is, when we have our consciences accusing for any more grievous swerving; the best is, when it cometh home by weep- in cross; but how wofull is the state of the soul, till repentance be given. For as a stomack surcharged, which hath neither vent upward nor downward, so is a soul clogged with guilt, but wanting repentance. 4. Cleave unto Christ by a lively faith still more and more, for he is the fountain of grace, and the firmer our faith is in him, the more do we partake of his holiness for our sanctification.
Q. What use may be made hereof?
A. We must learn our duty, not to runne on at adventure, but look to our heart and wayes herein: we are all Priests of God, we must not go without this breast-plate enameled with Ʋrim and Thummim. Wherefore let us look that our consciences speak with us, let us renew our purposes every day, strike sure covenants with God; take up the blessed exercise of broken hearts, bewaile our daily wants: for we should not let a thought which is awry, no not a dreame which savoureth corruption, passe without a censure. Job rather sanctified his houshold on suspition and jealousie, then neglected matters already apparently evil. 2. This doth rebuke such, who content themselves with externall righteousness, or none at all, Some there are that be good Church-men, honest, righteous, peaceable, just dealing men; but because they lay not a good foundation of faith in Jesus Christ, and of repentance from dead works; because they care not for the spirit and power of godliness; therefore brown paper shall as well keep out musket shot, as this will help them, when the devil shall let fly his murdring bullets. Many have no righteousness at all, their consciences being able to accuse them, that they have lived in profaneness, contempt of Gods Ordinances, pride, wrath, covetousness, pleasures: their purposes have been to walk after their own hearts lusts, doing that which is good in their own eyes. Instead of sorrow never to be repented of, they can tell you, they were at such a place, where they were frolick, had entertainment with sports, passed the time in merriments.