TheDoorofSalvationOpenedbytheKeyofRegeneration

byGeorgeSwinnock

TableofContents

THEEPISTLEDEDICATORY

TOTHEREADER

ANEPISTLETOTHEREADER

I.Theopeningofthewords,andthedoctrine

II.Thedescriptionornatureofregenerationintheseveralcausesofit

III. The reason why regeneration is necessary in all that will obtainsalvation

IV. The first use of the doctrine, containing the gross delusion of allunregeneratepersons

V.ShewingtheinsufficiencyoftenparticularstospeakaChristian'srighttoheaven

VI.Ausebywayof trial,whereinthecharacterofregeneratepersons issetdown,withsomequickeningmotivestoexamination

VII.Containingmoremarksofaregenerateperson

VIII.Containinganexhortationtoendeavourafterregeneration

IX.Thefirsthelptoregeneration,Seriousconsideration

X.The first subjectof consideration,Themiseryof theunregenerate inthisworld

XI.Themiseryoftheunregenerateintheotherworld

XII.Thesecondsubjectofconsideration,Thefelicityoftheregenerateinthisworld

XIII.Thefelicityoftheregenerateintheotherworld

XIV.Thethirdsubjectofconsideration,Theexcellencyofregeneration

XV.Thefourthsubjectofconsideration,Thenecessityofregeneration

XVI. The fifth subject of consideration, The equity of regeneration, orlivingtoGod

XVII.The secondhelp to regeneration,AnobservationorknowledgeofthoseseveralstepswherebythespiritofGodrenewethothersouls,andapliablecarriageandsubmissiontoitsworkingsandmotions

XVIII.Ananswertothreeobjections

XIX.Anexhortationtotheregenerate

XX.Asecondexhortationtotheregenerate,todowhattheycanfortheconversionofothers

THEEPISTLEDEDICATORY

To the Right Worshipful Sir CHARLES HERBOARD, Knight; to theWorshipful Sir RICHARD FRANKLIN, Knight; JOHN BERESFORD,

Esq.;EDWARDIRONSIDE,Esq.;RICHARDBERESFORD,Esq.;andtotheGentlemen,Yeomen,andtherestoftheInhabitantsoftheParishofRickmersworth.

ITisthecustomofourcountry,andifImistakenot,astatutelawofthenation, that children shouldbe kept andmaintainedby thoseplaces inwhichtheywereborn.Thisbook,whichtreatethofthebabeofgrace,wasconceived in your parish, brought forth in your pulpit, and nowpresenteth itself to you, not for your protection and patronage, but foryourperusalandpractice.

IconfessthatIamboundtomanyofyouincourtesy,toallinduty;andIknow not better how to express my thankfulness to some, and myfaithfulness to all, than by dealing uprightly with you in theconcernmentsofyoursouls:'Godismywitness,whomI(desireto)servewith my spirit in the gospel of his Son, that without ceasing I makemention of you always inmy prayers,' Rom. 1:9; and can, through thestrengthofChrist,muchmorerejoiceinoneofyourconversions,thaninallyourpossessions.YeknowwhatalargeepistleIhavealreadywrittentoyou;Ibeseechyoutoreaditoften,andohthattheLordwouldwriteitwithinyou!Weliveindaysthatarefullofdivision;butallthathaveanyfaceofreligion,orformofgodliness,willacknowledgethethingswhichIhavewrittentoyoutobethecommandmentsofGod.Mychiefwork is,andhathbeen,topreachuntoyourepentancetowardsGod,andfaithinourLordJesusChrist;whichareofsuchinfiniteweightinordertoyourunchangeablewelfares;andcouldIprevailwithyouheartilytoembracethose essentials ofGod'sword, I should have confidence of your joyfulappearance in the other world. It is a sign of a very foul stomach, toloathe such solid food as those vitals ofChristianity are, and to pick atkickshaws or salads,—Imean either the new-fangled opinions of someupstartway,orthevainflourishesofhumanwit.OhhowgladlywouldIstandforth toyourcomfortat the judgmentseatofChrist,whichthatImay, I earnestly request you again and again, in obedience to yourblessedSaviour, and for the sakeof yourprecious souls, toponderandpractise these three particulars. Consider that they are not onlycommended to you by your weak and dyingminister, but commandedyoubyyourMaker,whowillwithinashorttimereckonwithyouforthe

performanceofthem.

First, Make conscience of, and be diligent about, the means of grace;neglect not secret, private, or public ordinances. Your bodies may asprobablylivewithoutdiet,asyoursoulswithoutduties.ThisisGod'sway,by which he infuseth grace where it is wanting, and increaseth gracewhere it is.As theheadby thenervesandsinews,asorgans,conveyethanimalspiritstothewholebody,sodoththechurch'shead,ChristJesus,by ordinances convey his Spirit and grace to his members. Doth notexperience teach you that your hearts are like water; though heated alittlewhileoverthefireofthemeansofgrace,yetarenosoonertakenoff,but they are returning to their former coldness. Mariners that swimagainstwindandtide,mustrowhardandcontinueatit;iftheyintermitbutalittlewhile,howfarandhowforciblyaretheycarriedbackwards!Itisnotunknowntoyou,ifyehaveanyknowledgeinspiritualaffairs,howbusilyandunweariedlythedevil,worldandflesh,aredrawingyoutohell;ithighlyconcernethyoutobealways,byduties,fetchinginsuppliesfromabove,ifeveryewouldarriveatheaven.Idonotwonderthatmanyinourperilous times,who live above duties, are given up to the sensuality ofblasphemies.Thepapists say, that if theycanget theprotestantsoutoftheirstrongholdsofScripture,intotheopenfieldsofcouncilsandfathers,theycouldquicklybeabletofoilthem.IfSatancanprevailwithmenbuttothrowawaythewordofGod,whichistheswordoftheSpirit,andtheprayer of faith, which engageth Christ himself in the combat, he willnever doubt the conquest. While men walk in the king's highway,betweensunandsun,theyhavetheprotectionofthelaw;ifotherwise,itisat theirownperil. IfyoukeepthewayofGod,hewillbeyourguard;butifyouwanderandleavehim,nowonderifheleaveyou.Andcertainlywoe will be to you when God departeth from you. A dreadful night ofdarknessmustneedsbeexpectedwhenthesunisdeparted.

Theministryofthewordiscalled'thesaltoftheearth,'Mat.5;saintsarecalleddoves:'Whoarethosethatflyasdovestotheirwindows.'Nowthepropertyofdovesistobeexceedinglyinlovewithasaltstone;kitesandrooks care little for it, but doves are mightly incited to it. Gracelesspersons neglect and despise the means of grace; but they that everenjoyedGodinthem,cannotbutsetaduepriceuponthem.Thebeggar,

thepoorinspirit,willknowthatdooragainatwhichhehathreceivedagood dole: 'I will never forget thy precepts, for by them thou hastquickenedme.'

Secondly,Mindthereligiouseducationofyourchildren.BringthemupinthenurtureandadmonitionoftheLord.ItwasthewishofCratesthathewereupon the topof thehighesthill in theworld, that from thencehemightcryoutagainstmonstrousparents,thattoiltoleavetheirchildrengreat estates, but take no carewhatmanner of persons they should bewhichshouldenjoythoseestates.Idoubtnotbutyearecarefultobreedyoursonsgentlemen,ortobringthemuptotrades,thattheymayknowhow to live a few days in the world; but, alas! how few of you aresolicitous to breed them new creatures, and to bring them up toChristianity,thattheymayknowhowtoliveforeverintheotherworld!IrememberthatAugustinespeaksmournfully:Somepraisemyfatherforbeingatsuchcost,evenbeyondhisestate, inmynurture;but,alas!hiscare was to make me an orator, not to make me a Christian. I amconfidentmanya childbemoans that,nowhe isdamned inhell,whichthe fatherdidwhenhewasconversantonearth. I cannot condemn theeducationofchildren,accordingtothequalityoftheirparents,northeirbringinguptoparticularcallings;thislatterIamsureisaduty,butthatwhich is firstshouldbe last,andthatwhich is lastshouldbe first.Yourgreatestcare,andthatinthefirstplace,shouldbetoseekthekingdomofGodforyourselvesandchildren,andthenotherthingsshallbeaddedtoyou.Calebgavehisdaughtertheupperandthenethersprings.Ohlabourthat yours may, with Jacob, have the dews of heaven, as well as thefatnessoftheearth.

Elishaweptwhenhe sawHazael,2Kings8:12, 13, and foresaw thathewould slay youngmen, and dash the children against the wall; do notsome of you give far greater occasion of weeping, if possible tears ofblood,inslayingandmurderingthesoulsofyourdearchildren,teachingthem,byyourpatterns,tolivelikeheathensandatheists.Believeit,Godcommitteththechargeof,andwillaccountwithyoufor,all thesouls inyourfamilies.WhenCainhadslainhisbrotherAbel,Godcalledtohim,'WhereisthybrotherAbel?AndCainsaid,Iknownot:AmImybrother'skeeper? And the Lord said, What hast thou done? the voice of thy

brother'sbloodcriethuntomefromtheground.Andnowthouartcursedfrom the earth, which hath opened hermouth to receive thy brother'sbloodatthinehand,'Gen.4:9–11.SosupposeGodshouldwhisperoneofyouintheear,Cruelfather,carelessmaster,whereisthychildorservant,that died somanymonths or years ago? Youmay possibly think whatCain spake, Lord, I know not, whether in heaven or hell; was I theirkeeper?Oh thinkof itwithspeed,andreform!MaynotGodreplyverytruly,Cursed sinner, vilewretch,whathast thoudone? thevoiceof thychild,of thyservant's, soul-bloodcrieth tome fromhell.Andnowthouartcursedfromhell,whichhathopenedhermouthtoreceivethyson's,thyservant's,soulat thyhand.Friends, friends,whatwillyoudo,whenGodshallthusdealwithyouforyourneglectofrelativeduties?Possiblyyemay think Ideal too sharply;but truly the reason isbecause Iknowthatsinwillnotdealmildly,eitherwithyouoryours.AndshouldInotgive youwarning, thebloodof your ownand children's soulswouldberequiredatmyhands.GoodLord,thatyedidbutbelievewhatitistobeguilty of others' blood!Heathens and infidels provide for the body andtemporalwell-being of their children, andwhat domany of youmore?Bears that bring forth misshapen whelps, will, by licking them, bringthemtoabetter form.Yourchildrenarebrought forthenemies toGod,andarebynature childrenofwrath, andheirsof eternaldeath;doth itnot behove you to strive that, by religious nurture, they may becomechildrenofthepromise,andheirsofeternallife.

Thirdly,Make sure of regeneration; be never satisfied till ye can, uponScripturegrounds,affirmthatyournaturesareregenerated.This,thisisthe one thing necessary. Your all hangs upon this hinge. If this be notdone, ye are undone, undone eternally. All your profession, civility,privileges, gifts, duties, are ciphers, and signify nothing unlessregeneration be the figure put before them. It is regeneration that willmake you the sons of God, the members of Christ, the temples of theSpirit,thatwillgiveyouaholyimprovementofallprovidences,arighttoallthepromises,andatlastthepurchasedpossession.Itisregenerationthatwillteachyoutolivelikemen,likeChristians,likeangels,intheloveandfruitionoftheinfinitelyblessedGod.Ohthepriceofthispearlisnotknowninthisbeggarlyworld!

Agrave andwise counsellor ofFrance, beingdesirous inhis old age toretirehimself,wasentreatedbythekingtowritedownsomedirections,and leavewith him, for themore prosperous government of his realm.Thecounsellortooksomepaper,andwroteonthetop,moderation;inthemiddle, moderation; at the bottom, moderation. Demosthenes beingasked what was the chief thing in an orator, answered, elocution; andbeingdemandedthesamequestionthreetimes,whatmadeanorator,hestill gave the same answer. Augustine being demanded what was thegreatestrequisiteofaChristian,whatwasthefirst,second,andthird,stillanswered,humility,humility,humility.Trulywhatthecounsellorsaidofmoderation, theGrecianofelocution,andthe fatherofhumility, I shallsayofregeneration.Ifyouaskmewhatisthechiefestthingintheworldfor a man to mind; what is that which is worthy of all his time, andstrength,andthoughts,andwords,andactions?Ianswer,regeneration.Ifyoudemandwhatisthatwhichisofgreatestnecessityandexcellency,that bringeth in the greatest profit, delight, and happiness? I answer,regeneration.Hethathaththis,hathallthatisworthhaving;thehavingof this is heaven. He that wanteth this hath nothing; the whole worldcannotmake up the want of this; the want of this is hell. O sirs, youreverlasting making or marring dependeth upon your sincerity orhypocrisy in this!Ofwhat infiniteconsequence is it therefore toyou, inwhatsoever ye come short, to make sure here! Alas! when ye come tothrowyour lastcast foreternity,howwill thestoutestofyoudoto lookdeath in the face, without regeneration in your hearts! God hath, in ahundred texts of Scripture, devoted all unregenerate ones to theunquenchablefire;andcananyofyouthinktomakehimaliar?Believeit, as soonasdeath landethyouat theotherworld, youwillhaveotherthoughtsofGodandhistruthsthannowyehave.

For your help in this work, which is of such absolute indispensablenecessity unto your never-dying souls, I commend to you this treatise,beseeching theblessedGod tomake it serviceableuntoyoursalvations.Ignatius,whenheheardaclockstrike,wouldsay,Ihaveonehourmoreto answer for. I must tell you that ye have eighteen hours, eighteensermonsmore to answer for.When theywerepreached, theyhad fromsome of you a favourable attention; now they are printed—it is notunknownwhatprovidencebrought them to thepress—Iwish theymay

have within you an effectual operation, that both the author and hislaboursmayappeartoyourjoyatthatgreatandterribleday.

Thesethingsbeingfinished,'IcommendyoutoGod,andtothewordofhisgrace,whichisableto(bringyouhome,whoareoutofChrist,andto)buildyouup(whoare inChrist),andtogiveyouan inheritanceamongthem which are sanctified,' Acts 20:32.—And subscribe myself, yourservantforJesus'sake,

GEORGESWINNOCK.

Jan.20,1659.

TOTHEREADER

CHRISTIANREADER,—Astherearetwothingswhichcommendaplace,thefruitfulnessofthesoil,andthepleasantnessofthesituation—theonesuitingthenecessities,andtheotherthecomfortsoflife;sotherearetwothings which commend a book—the worthiness of the matter thereinhandled, and the skilfulness of the hand that contrived it. Upon bothaccounts this gracious treatise justly deserveth with good menacceptation and value; the matter thereof, viz., the doctrine ofregeneration,beingofmostabsolutenecessitytothebeingofaChristian;andthemannerofhandlingitbeingsoquickandelegant,ascannotbutconvincethejudgment,andgratifythepalate,ofthemostseriousreader;itbeinglikethelandofCanaan,fullofmilkandhoney,asweetnesswhichdoth both nourish and cleanse. And as once David did consecrate thespoils of theGentiles to the building of the temple, so hath the authoradorned this his spiritual treatisewith a sanctified application ofmanypertinent histories in human authors, to the attempering thereof thebetteruntothemostdelicateminds.

Ishallnotdetainthereaderbyanydiscourseonregeneration,thenatureand necessity whereof I find so fully handled in this book, but shallcommendtheperusalthereofuntoallsortsofreaders;itbeingsowrittenasmay, byGod's blessing, be very likely to convince and convert thosewhoare strangers to regeneration, if theywillbringbut self-love to thereading of it, and as may fill themouths and hearts of those who arepartakers of so great a benefit with praises unto God, their heavenlyFather by gracious adoption, and unto the Lord Christ, their secondAdam,andspiritualFatherbypowerfulregeneration,towhoseblessingIcommendthework,theauthor,andthereader,

ED.REYNOLDS.

January31,1659.

ANEPISTLETOTHEREADER

READER,—In how happy a time dost thou live, when God sendeth somanyandsopowerfulmessengers,tocalltheefromthewaysofsinanddeath! And howmiserable and unexcusablewilt thou prove, if thou beafterallthisastrangertothelifeoffaith,ofholiness!Ifnaturehadmadethee a spiritual person, a child of God, and an heir of heaven, thisdoctrineofregenerationmightthenbereceivedasstrangelyasitwasbyNicodemus, and as neglectfully as it is by careless worldlings, and asdisdainfully as it is by unbelieving andmalignant enemies of theHolyGhost.But soonermayyouhope to findanewway into theworldorastateofnature,besidesthewayofhumanbirth,thantofindanotherwayintothestateofgrace,andthekingdomofheaven,besidesthenewbirth,by the Spirit. Nature proclaimeth its own vitiosity to every diligentobserver.He that is so carnal asnot toobserve it, in the crossnessandrebellion of his soul against God, and the world's captivity to self and

flesh, onewould think should yetbe so rational as toobserve it, in theconfusionandinordinatebehaviourofmentooneanother;whileself isexaltedagainstthegoodoffriendsandneighbours,yea,andagainstthecommongood, and that so incurably, as thewars and calamities of thenationsdosignify:'Fromwhencecomeswarsandfightingsamongmen?cometheynothence,evenoftheirluststhatwaragainsttheirmembers?'James 4:1. But the corrupted soul is so conformed to the world'scorruptedstate,thatitisnowonderifheperceivenoneedofarestorer,andsobeintheheartaninfideluponthataccount;asamanbornblindmaythinktheworldhathnogreatneedofthesun,becausehiseyesaresoconformtoastateofdarkness,thatthenightseemethtohimasgoodas theday.Asall thecreatureswhichwedaily seecondemn theatheistthatdenieththeirCreator,soallthespotsandblemishesofthecreatures,especiallytheuniversalpravityofmankind,condemneththeinfidel,that,seeingnotoriginalsinandmisery,denieththenecessityofaRedeemer;andtheholinessofrenewedsoulsabouthimdothfurthercondemnhimthatdothnotacknowledgethesanctifier,whoisthecause.ThereparationofvitiatednatureisamysteriousbutgloriousworkofGod,whichangelsdesiretopryinto,andalltheregeneraterejoiceinandadmire,ashavingthemselvesbeenmadepartakersof so sweet andexcellent a share.Thekingdomofdarknessisaconfederacyofwickedangelsandmen,thatareallruledbyonemaliciousprincipalgovernor,Mat.12:24–30,and25:41,&c.,whoseworkistomartheworkofGod,thatnaturemaynotattainitsprimitiveandproperend.AndthekingdomofChrististheholysociety,headedbyhimthathathmadeithisundertakenworktobetherepairerofdepravednature,andtodestroytheworksofthedevil,andtoremoveimpediments, and conquer opposition, and carry on his healing work,thatnaturemayyetattainitsends,indespiteofsin,anddeath,andhell.

As ever you would not be guilty of contemning this wonderful work,nature'sreparation,elevation,andperfection,seenowthatyouoverlooknot the greatnecessityof it in yourselves,whereonewould think, as itdoth most nearly concern you, so it should be most easy to you toperceiveit.Nopartofnatureissodeplorablyvitiatedasthesoulofman,exceptthedevil's.Thiswasthycasethatreadestthesewords,aswellasmineandallmen'selse;andifthouartnotrestoredbyrenewinggrace,itisthycasestill;itisSatan'sbusinesstokeeptheefromobservingit,lest

theknowledgeof thymiseryshouldwaken thee toacceptandmind thecure.Ifhecanmaketheeforgetit,ordeceivetheebyflatterers,andbyaseeming formal outside religiousness, and quiet thee in thymisery, tillthere be no remedy, but time is past, and mercy gone, then is he theconqueror,andhaththepreyheaimedat,andthouartlostforever.

Thy salvation or damnation lieth on thy escaping this deceit, and thepresumption,security,andimpenitency,thatareitsconsequents.ForthisendthouhasttheplaindirectionsofGod'sword,thefrequentwarnings,the close convictions, the fervent exhortations of his ministers. If theSpiritset in,andtheseprevail,andthougiveupthyselfunreservedlytotheLord, thouartahappyman,andhast received thebeginningof lifeeternal. Regeneration must give thee a new nature, suitable to theheavenlydoctrinesanddutiespropoundedintheholyScriptures,orelsetheywillseemstrangeandtoilsomethings,andthouwiltsavourthemnomorethanthyfoodwhenthouartsick.Tillthouartregenerate,andhastanewheartandspirit,thouwiltstilldisrelishthosesavingtruthsthatcalltheehigher,andputtheeuponself-denialandaholylife,especiallywhenthey are closely applied to thee for these ends. Thou wilt disrelish allspiritual prayers and conference, especially when they discover andcondemn thyunsanctified carnal state; and thouwilt secretlyoropenlyhaveamalignantdistasteoroppositionagainst theregenerate, that livebythatrenewingsanctifyingSpirittowhichthouartastranger,andwiltlookon themasapeople that condemn theeby their lives,unless thoucanst cheat thyself into a persuasion that they are but a company ofsingular,proud,self-conceitedpeople,andreallynootherwiseregeneratethanthyself.Andall thereligion,andwisdom,andgoodcarriagewhichthouhast,without thisspiritualchange,mayeasilybethydelusion,butwillneverserveforthysalvation;yea,heavenitselfwouldbetotheenoheavenifitweresetopentothee,andthouhadstnottheheavenlynaturetosuittotheheavenlyemploymentandfelicity.Thisisthebusinessofaconverting and confirming ministry, and of the Spirit and grace thatworksbythem;andthisisthebusinessthataboveotherbusinessesliethuponthee inthispresentworld,eventoworknowinthysoul thatholylove to themost blessedGod,who is love itself, whichmay cause theeheretothirstafterhispresence,andtoseekhisfavour,andtodohiswill,andmayfittheedelightfullyforevertoenjoyhim,andeverlastinglytobe

solacedinthebeholdingofhisglory,inthefeelingofhislove,andinhisheavenly praises and the fulfilling of his will. An unregenerate, unholysoul is as unfit for this as thymortal enemy to lie in thy bosom, or astoadsandserpentstobethefamiliarcompanionsofmen,orastheoxorass is to feed with thee at thy table, and lie with thee in thy bed.Employmentsandenjoymentsmusthaveasuitablenature; if theSpiritfittheenothereforheaven,inthislifewhichisgiventheepurposelyforthat end, it is pernicious folly to hope for a heaven for which thyunsanctified nature is unfit, and to promise thyself a felicity of whichthou art incapable, and which indeed thy very heart doth hate. Thoulovestnotholinesshere,nor thevery imperfect saints thathave it,howmuchlesscouldstthoulovetheinfiniteholinessofGod,whohateththysins ten thousand timesmore than themost severeand sharp reproverhates them? If thy eyes cannot look upon the smallest candle withoutoffence,howthenwouldtheyenduretolookuponthesun,andthatinthenearestaccessunto itsglory?And ifhere thyenmity to theholywillofGod be such that thou pleasest not him, and he and his ways aredispleasinguntothee,howincapableartthouofheaven,whichisastateofmutualfulldelight,wherethesaintsdoperfectlypleasetheLord,andareperfectlypleasedinhimandhispleasure:Rom.8:5–8,'Theythatareafterthefleshdomind(orsavour)thethingsof theflesh;buttheythatare after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. To be carnally minded isdeath;buttobespirituallymindedis lifeandpeace.BecausethecarnalmindisenmityagainstGod:foritisnotsubjecttothelawofGod,neitherindeedcanbe.SothentheythatareinthefleshcannotpleaseGod.'And'thatwhichisbornofthefleshis(but)flesh;asthatwhichisbornoftheSpiritisspirit,'John3:6.ItisthereforeundeniablethattillyouarebornoftheSpirit,andsomadespiritual,allyourreligionandcivility leavethyoubutenemiestoGod,andinastateofrebellionagainsthiswill,andconsequently in a state of death. Baptism, which is the sacrament ofregeneration,doth signify this change,andcontainyourprofessionandengagementtotheLord.ButifyouhavenottheregenerationoftheSpiritaswellasofthewater,andtheanswerofagoodconscienceaswellasthewashing of the flesh, you differ from heathens and infidels but ascovenant-breakers differ from them that never entered into covenantwithChristatall.

But I must not stand too long instructing you at the door, when mybusiness is to call you in, and to tell you that here is amessage to youfromtheLord;atreatiseofregeneration,themostnecessarysubject,inastyle so clean and close, in words so pertinent, plain, powerful, andpressing, that undoubtedly by a serious, impartial perusal, joined withsober consideration and prayer, thy soul may receive unspeakablecommodity.ThoughIknownottheauthor,Iamsofaracquaintedwiththespiritappearinginthisdiscourse,thatIdareassuretheehehadverymuchhelp fromheaven, anddare encourage thee to study this savourytreatise, as that which containeth most certain, sound, and necessarydoctrine,directlytendingtothesavingofthysoul,withoutanytendencyto heresy, schism, or uncharitable censoriousness; a doctrine necessaryforthelearnedorunlearned,therichandthepoor,thehonourableandthebase,andformenofalldegreesandranks;which,ifithadbeenmoreheartilystudiedandinculcatedinpublicandinprivatebyallpreachersofthe gospel, instead of the human inventions, canons, opinions, andinterests of their several sects, the church and the consciences of thepastors and their flocks had been nowmuchwholer and sounder thantheyare.Believeit,whateverthouart,thoushaltneverbesavedforbeingalord,oraknight,oragentleman,orarichman,oralearnedman,orawell-spokeneloquentman,noryetforbeingaCalvinist,oraLutheran,anArminian,anAnabaptist,aPrelatist,aPresbyterian,anIndependent,orprotestant,formallyandmerelyassuch,muchlessforbeingapapist,orofanysuchgrosslydeludedsect,butasaregenerateChristian it is thatthoumust be saved, or thou canst havenohope. If once this renewingSpirithave takenpossessionof thy soul, and thouartmadepartakerofthe divine and heavenly nature, and art become a living member ofChrist, thou shalt be saved, though thou know not whether diocesanbishops, metropolitans, primates, and patriarchs, or only parochialbishops,bemost agreeable to themindofGod; and though thouknownotwhetheranyotherbookthantheBibleshouldcontainthe liturgyofthechurch,andthoughthouknownotinahundredcontroversiesofthetimes, about orders, and forms, and ceremonies, and smaller points ofdoctrine, which party it is that is in the right. Holiness will save theewithout the formalities of this party or of that, but formalities will notsavetheewithoutholiness.

ToyouthatareregenerateIshallsaybutthis,keepveryhonourableandthankful thoughts of your spiritual birth; live now as the sons of theeternal God, and as the heirs of everlasting life; set your faces nowtowardsheaven,as thosethatseethegraveathand,andthevanitiesofthisworldallvanishingintosmoke,andasthosethatareresolvedtohaveheaven or nothing. Away with the sins, the baits and company, thatformerlywereyourdesireanddelight.Andseeingeventhefirsthourofyourconversion there is joy inheavenbefore theangels foryoursakes,forshamewalknotintoomuchdejectednessanddespondency,butkeepaharmonyandconsentwithheaven,seeingyouaresohighlyconcernedinthematteroftheirjoy.AndpraystilltotheLordoftheharvestthathewillmindtheforsakennationsoftheearth,andcontinuehiskindnesstothis unworthy island, in sending forth more such labourers into hisharvestasthisreverendauthorisheremanifestbyhisworkstobe;andthathewilldoublehisSpiritonthemessengersofgrace,thatwithfaiththeymayspeakthewordsoffaith,andwithlifemayspeakthewordsoflife,andthat the immortalseedwhich issownby theirhandmaybringforthmanysonstoGod,andspringupplenteouslyuntoeternallife.Andamongothersrememberhimthanwhomscarceanyismoreobligedtobethankfulfortheprayersofthesaints,eventhemostunworthyservantoftheLordamongthemthathavefoundmercytobefaithful,

RICHARDBAXTER.

January31,1659.

THEDOOROFSALVATIONOPENEDBYTHEKEYOFREGENERATION

Jesusansweredandsaiduntohim,Verily,verily,Isayuntothee,Exceptamanbebornagain,hecannotseethekingdomofGod.—JOHN3:3.

CHAPTERI

Theopeningofthewords,andthedoctrine

As Isaiah is called the evangelical prophet, because he doth so livelydescribeandforetelthedeathofChrist,soJohnmaynotunfitlybecalledthepropheticalevangelist;forthoughinhisEpistlesheshewshimselfanapostle,inhisGospelanevangelist,yetinhisRevelationheisaprophet.The ancients do aptly ascribe the eagle to him for his ensign; becausewhen the other evangelists begin with the Mediator's incarnation andhumanity,provinghim tobe theSonofman,hedothat first flyoutofsight,andbeginnethwiththeSaviour'sdeity,provinghimtobetheSonof God. And his whole Gospel indeed is a demonstration of Christ'sdivinity,whichwasoccasioned,asecclesiasticalhistoriansrecord,bytheheresyofEbionandCerinthus,whodeniedit.

Inthisthirdchapterwehave,first,ChristteachingNicodemus,tover.21.

Secondly,John'stestimonyconcerningChrist,totheend.

The text is Christ's speech toNicodemus.Nicodemus had seenChrist'smiracles,and therebywasconvinced tocomeuntohim;Christ letshimhearhisoracles,thattherebyhemightbeconvertedandcomeintohim.Nicodemus, in thesecondverse,hadcalledChristRabbi,andconfessedhimtobeateachersentfromGod;Christ,inpursuanceofthatoffice,setshimhislesson,assuringhimthathemustlearnitintheschoolofearth,orhecanneverberemovedtotheuniversityofheaven.

Inthewordsweobservetwogeneralparts.

First,Anaffirmation,orthenecessityofregeneration: 'Exceptamanbebornagain,hecannotseethekingdomofGod.'

Secondly, Its confirmation, or the certainty of that assertion: 'Verily,

verily,Isayuntothee.'

Intheaffirmationwemaytakenoticeoftwoparticulars:

1. The universality of the persons: 'A man,' that is, every man; thepropositionisindefinite,andsoequivalenttoonethatisuniversal.

2. The quality of the thing affirmed: 'Be born again;'mendingwill notserve,thewholemanmustbenewmade;nonuniuspartiscorrectionem,sedtotiusnaturærenovationemdesignat,saithCalvin;Itspeaksnotthereparationofonepart,buttherenovationofthewholeman.

Intheconfirmationofittherearelikewisetwothingsconsiderable:

1.Themanneroftheexpression:'Verily,verily.'

2.Theauthorofit:'Isayuntothee.'

Themeaningofthewords.

'Verily,verily;'thatis,amen,faithfully,truly;thewordcomethfromtheHebrewamen,whichsignifiethtrue,faithful.Itisusedbythepeopleasaratificationof their prayers, and testimonyof their desires to beheard,Jer. 11:5; 1 Cor. 14:16. And when it is doubled, as here by the greatprophet, it is a vehement asseveration, or strong confirmation of thethingasserted.AsifChristhadsaid,Nicodemus,thoumayestbelieveme,for truly, assuredly it is so; except thou art a new creature, thou canstneverenterintothenewJerusalem.AllGod'ssayingsareofequaltruth;but to some there is affixeda specialnoteof certainty,becauseof theirextraordinaryweight,andman'sinfidelity.Privatesoldiersmaygowithacommon pass, but generals and commanders-in-chief have trumpetssounding before them. Verily, verily. All orders and warrants of kingshavenottheirsealsannexed,butthosethatbeofgreatestweight.

'I say unto thee.' Iwho am the prophet ofmy church, the teacher sentfromGod,thetrueandfaithfulwitness,'forwhomitisimpossibletolie,'Idelivertheethisdoctrineasacertainunquestionabletruth,thatunlessthouhastanewbeing,ithadbeenbetterfortheetohavehadnobeing,forthoucanstneverseethekingdomofGod.

'Exceptaman,'Lethimpretendneversomuch,lethisperformancesbenever somany, let his privileges be never so great, and his professionneversoglorious,yet ifhebenotbornagain,allthesewilldohimlittlegood,forhecanneverseethekingdomofGod.Theassertion,asIhintedbefore,isgeneral;aseverymanisbornoftheflesh,soeverymanmustbebornoftheSpirit,orithadbeenhappyforthemiftheyhadneverbeenborn.

'Bebornagain.'Thatis,berenewed,andturnedbytheHolyGhostfromnaturetograce,'fromdarknesstolight,fromthepowerofSatantoGod,'Acts 16:18. Except aman be inwardly and really altered fromwhat hewas, except he becomes a new creature: 'Put off the oldman,which iscorruptaccordingtothedeceitfullusts;andputonthenewman,whichafterGod is created in righteousness and true holiness,' Eph. 4:22–24.Excepthebeturnedupsidedown,andwalkantipodestohisformerway;exceptthestreamofhisheartandliferuninanotherchannel,carryhimtowardsanotherhaven,hecanneverarriveatheaven;excepttheimageofthedevilberazedoutanddefaced,andtheimageofGodbeimprintedonhim,hecanneverbesaved;excepthebethoroughlyanduniversallychanged; his understanding by illumination, hiswill by renovation, hisaffections by sanctification, and his life by reformation, he can neverobtainsalvation.

'Hecannotsec.'That is,enjoy;hecannothavehisportion in it,oreverattaintheenjoymentofit.Videreestfrui.VisioninScriptureisfrequentlyputforfruition:asPs.27:13;Heb.12:4;Isa.3:1;Ps.34:12;Mat.5:8.

'ThekingdomofGod.'God'skingdomistwofold:

1. The kingdom of grace here, Rom. 14:17. 'The kingdom ofGod is notmeat and drink; but righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost,'Mat.6:33.

2. The kingdom of glory hereafter, 1 Thes. 2:12. Now except aman bebornagain,hecanhavenorighttotheprivilegesofthekingdomofgrace,nortothepossessionofthekingdomofglory.

Thetextbeingthusbrieflyexplained,Ishallgleansomefewearsbytheway, before I come to the full sheaf, which will afford, through theblessingofGod,muchspiritualfoodtooursouls.

1. Obs. That Christ is very willing to instruct them that come to him,notwithstandingtheirmanyweaknesses.

NicodemuswasshortinhisconfessionofChrist,andfaultyinhiscomingtohimonlybynight;yetthemeekMasteroverlookeththis,andpresentlyfallsuponteachinghisoutwardscholar.Thetenderfatherdothnotturnhisweakchildoutofdoors,butlendshimhishelpinghand,wherebyhemightbeenabledtogo.Aswhenasoulis inhim,hedothnotrefuseitsgoldbecauseitwantethsomegrains,noritshoneythoughitbemingledwithwax,Cant.5:1;sowhenasoulisinthewaytohim,hedothnotrejectitforitsimperfections,nortwititwithitscorruptions,asthosefliesthatlove to feed on sores; but as the loving parent beholdeth the prodigalwhileheisafaroff,runnethmorethanhalfwaytomeethim,andasthetrueturtlechirpethsweetly,thathemayclucksinnersnearertohimself.

2.Obs.Amanmaybeanoble,knowingperson,andyetignorantof,andastrangerto,regeneration.

NicodemuswasaruleroftheJews,eitheroneoftheSanhedrim,orgreatcouncil,oroneof the rulersof their synagogue;one that taughtothers,andyetwashimselfuntaughtinthisrudiment,thisABCofChristianity.Howchildishlydothhetalkofthisweightytruth!Ver.4,'Howcanamanbebornwhenhe isold?canheenter thesecondtime intohismother'swomb and be born? How deep may a man dive into the mysteries ofnature,howsharp-sightedmayhebethere,andyetasblindasamoleinthe thingsofgrace!Naturemay in somemenbedungedwith industry,art, education, and example, and thereby show fair, spread far, andovertopothers,but yetmanured to theutmost, it isbutnature still: itsgrapes will be the grapes of Sodom, and its clusters the clusters ofGomorrah.Thenaturalman, likeZaccheus, is too lowof stature to seeJesus, 'he discerneth not the things of God: neither indeed can he, fortheyarespirituallydiscerned,'1Cor.2:14.Thewisestphilosophers,thatcouldcunninglypickthelockofnature'scabinet,andbeholdmuchofherrichesandtreasure,weremereidiotsandfoolsinthethingsoftheSpirit,

and understood nomore of thesemysteries of divinity than a cowherddothofthedarkestpreceptsofastronomy.Waterrisethnohigherthanitsfountain;thelightwithinus,ornature,isbutarushcandle,andcannotenable us to see the Sun of righteousness; the light without us, orscripture, is thestar to thewisemen, leadingus to theplacewhere thebabeofBethlehemlieth.Astheeyewithouttheopticvirtueisbutadeadmember,soallhumanwisdomwithoutdivineinspirationisbut learnedfollyandelaboratewickedness.

3.Obs.That regeneration isoneprincipal thingwhichpastorsought toinstructtheirpeoplein.

Jesus Christ, though the wind of Nicodemus' words, ver. 2, seemed toblow towards some other coast, yet he waives all other discourse, andspeaks directly and home to this, as the one doctrine necessary for hisunregeneratediscipleto learn.RegenerationandsalvationbyChristarethe two substantial dishes which the faithful stewards of God setconstantly before the families committed to their charges. Those thatpreachnotions insteadof suchdoctrinesdo cursedly cozen their guestswithflowersinsteadofmeat,whichmayfilltheeyeofthewanton,butnottheheartofthehungrysoul.Ohwhatablessedpatternhavewehereforourpractice,whenourparishionerscometous,orwegotothem!whatmore weighty subject can we treat of than their conversion! withoutwhich they must be punished with everlasting destruction. Alas, howboundlessandendlessisthatwrathtowhichtheyareliable,thoughtheirheartsareinsensible!thereforethoughtheirmouthsdonotcall,yettheirmiserydothcryaloudtoustoinstructtheminregeneration,aseverwedesiretheyshouldescapedamnation.

Butthedoctrinewhichlprincipallyintendisthis:

Doct. That without regeneration men and women can never obtainsalvation.

'Verily,verily,Isayuntothee,Exceptamanbebornagain,hecannotseethe kingdom of God.' He or she that is not experimentally acquaintedwiththesecondbirthcannotpossiblyescapetheseconddeath.'Makeyouanewheart,andanewspirit:forwhywillyedie,OhouseofIsrael,'Ezek.

18:31.Theoldheartwillunquestionablycarry thee tohell—theplaceofthe old serpent. He must have a new spirit that will go to the newJerusalem.'Exceptyebeconvertedandbecomeaslittlechildren,yeshallnotenter into thekingdomofGod,'Mat. 18:2.Theremustbea changefromnature tograce,before therecanbea change fromgrace toglory.Heaven is the father's house, John 14:2, provided for none but hischildren, such as are born of him. A man must be taken out of thewildernessofnature,andplantedinEden,thegardenoftheLord,beforehecanbetransplantedintothetrueparadise.

CHAPTERII

Thedescriptionornatureofregenerationintheseveralcausesofit

Fortheillustrationofthistruth,Ishallshew,first,whattheregenerationornewbirth is; and then give you the reasonswhynone can avoid theseconddeath,unlesstheyareacquaintedwiththesecondbirth.

Forthefirst,RegenerationisaworkofGod'sSpirit,wherebyhedoth,outofhismeregoodpleasure,forhisowngloryandthesalvationofhiselect,at firstrenewthewholemanafterhisownimagebytheministryoftheword.Ishallexplainthisdefinitionbytakingitinpieces,andobservinginittheseveralcausesofregeneration.Whenarrashangingsareopenedandunfolded,theirrichnesswillappear.

First,IcallitaworkofGod'sSpirit;hereistheefficientprincipalcauseofit.Thebabeofgraceinthisrespectcallethnoneonearthfather.ItisbytheSpiritovershadowingthesoulthatthisnewcreatureisconceivedandbrought forth;godliness isnotnatural,butadventitious toman;notbypropagation, but by donation. Man cannot generate himself naturally,muchlessregeneratehimselfspiritually;theywhicharebornofthefleshcontributenothingtotheirownbeings,neitherdotheywhicharebornofthe Spirit bring anything to their new beings, unless it be a passivereceptiveness,astheyarereasonablecreatures.Somereadthetext,andnot unfitly, for the original will fully bear it, 'Except a man be born

(ἂνωθεν, i.e, οὐρανοθεν) fromabove,' or fromheaven;and therefore inthefifthverseofthisthirdchapofJohn,Christtellethus,'Exceptamanbebornof theSpirit,hecannotenter into thekingdomofGod;'and inTitus3:5,itiscalleda'renewingoftheHolyGhost;'soin1John4:12,13;Jer.31:18,19;2Cor.3:5;1Peter1:1,2,3;Eph.2:10;1Peter2:9,10.

This work is sometimes called a transplanting out of the natural wildolivetree,andingraffingit,contrarytonature,intoatruegoodolivetree;Rom.11:24,outofthefirstintothesecondAdam;nowthescioncannottransplant or ingraff itself. It is termed a new creation, 2 Cor. 5:17. Tocreate or bring something out of nothing is beyond the power of thestrongestcreature;itisabovethestrengthofallmenandangelstocreatetheleastpileofgrass;Godchallengeththisashisprerogativeroyal,Isa.40:26.Astheoldheavenandearthweretheworkofhishands,Gen.1:1,soare thenewheavensandnewearth,whereindwellethrighteousness,Isa.65:17.Austintrulysaid,Toconvertthelittleworld,man,ismorethantocreatethegreatworld.Itisfurtherstyledaresurrectionfromthedead,Eph.5:14,and2:5.Itisagreatworktorecoveradyingbody,afargreatertorestoreonethatisdeadtolife;butthegreatestofalltoenlivenadeadsoul;intheformerthereisnoopposition,inthisthereismuch.Inspiteofmananddevils, toputdowntheuglyrotten frameofsin,andsetupthe lovely lasting fabric of sanctity, requireth no less strength thanomnipotency.TheAlmightyGodputtethforththeexceedinggreatnessofhis power in forming the new creature, Eph. 1:10–20. Nay, the samepower which he did in raising Jesus Christ from the dead, who had,besidethewatchofRomans,andthemaliceofhell,suchaheavyweightasthesinsoftheworldtokeephimdown.

Repentance and faith are the two chief ingredients in this rarecomposition, and neither of them are such drugs as grow in nature'sgarden;no,theyarefetchedfromfar:ItisGodthatgivethtotheGentilesrepentanceuntolife,Acts11:18;2Tim.2:25.Thestoneswillassoonweepasman'sheartofstone,unlesshethatsmotetherockforcewateroutofit,by turning it intoaheartof flesh.For faithalso, it is thegiftofGod,Eph.2:8;Phil.1:29.'NonecometotheSon,butsuchasaredrawnbytheFather,'John6:44.Healonethatcausedirontoswim,2Kings6:6,cankeep the humbled sinner, that is pressed down with the burden of

innumerableiniquities,fromsinkinginthegulfofdesperation.

Topart aman fromhis dearest carnal self, and tomakehimdiligentlyseekthedestructionofwhatbeforehesoughtthepreservation;tomakehim cut off his right hand, and pluck out his right eye, hate father,mother, wife, child, name, house, land; undo all he had done, gobackwardeverystephehadgone;seethingswithanewlight,understandthings with another heart, and in the whole course of his life to swimagainst thestreamandtideofnature,andwindsofexample; tobringasoul to this, I say, (which is all done and much more in conversion,)requireththeinfiniteGod'soperation:fleshandbloodcanneitherrevealthese things to aman, norwork these things in aman, but the Fatherwhichisinheaven.

Theminister, like the prophet's servant, may lay his staff on the deadchild,buthecannotraiseittolifetilltheMastercometh:'Paulmayplant,and Apollos water, but God only can give the increase,' 1 Cor. 3:6.'Without him we can do nothing,' John 15:5. We may preach out ourhearts, unless God affords his help, our people will never be holy. AsProtogenes,whenhesawapictureinashopcuriouslydrawn,criedout,NonebutApellescoulddothis:sowhenthouseestthebeautifulimageoftheblessedGodlivelyportrayedonthesoul,thoumayestsay,ThisisthefingerofGod:nonebutaGodcoulddothis.

Secondly,Isay,'WherebyGodoutofhismeregoodpleasure,'hereistheimpulsiveormovingcauseof regeneration; 'ofhisownwillbegatheusagain by the word of truth,' James 1:18. God's good-will is the highestmoving causeof this graciouswork; itwasnot any foresightof faithorgood works, not anything without him that turned the scale of histhoughts for thy purity and peace, but only his own good pleasure andpity,Ezek.36:21,22;thereforeheissaidto'giveanewheart,'ver.26,27,because he bestoweth it freely, not for man's merit, but for his ownmercy: the gift of grace ismerely of grace; 'Forweourselves,' saith theapostle, 'were sometimes disobedient, foolish, serving divers lusts andpleasures; but after that the kindness and love of God our Saviourtowards man appeared; not by works of righteousness which we havedone, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing ofregeneration,andrenewingoftheHolyGhost,'Titus3:3–5;soEph.2:1–

6.Ifyouwouldknowthegrandreasonwhysomearetakenbythenetoftheword,letdownintheseaoftheworld,whenothersareleft;whysomelikewaxaremeltedbeforethisfireofScripture,whenotherslikeclayarehardened; why some have the light side of this glorious pillar towardsthem,whenothershavethedarksideofit;whythesamepathoftheRedSea is salvation to some, when it is destruction to others; why the'mysteriesofthekingdomofheavenarerevealedtobabes,whentheyarehidfromthewiseandprudent:' ImustgiveyouthesamereasonwhichChrist himself doth, 'Even so, Father, because it seemeth good in thysight,'Mat11:27;hiswillandmercyarethecausesofallourfelicity,Rom.9:18;1Pet.1:3;Deut.7:7,8.Gracechooseththee,Rom.11:5. 'Thereisaremnantaccordingtotheelectionofgrace,'soEph.1:5.Gracecalleth,2Tim.1:9;'Whohathcalledusaccordingtohispurposeandgrace,whichwasgivenusinChristJesusbeforetheworldbegan,'soGal.1:15.Gracedistinguishethanddifferenceththeefromothers; 'BythegraceofGodIamwhatIam,'1Cor.15:10.Gracejustifieth,Rom.3:24, 'Beingjustifiedfreelybyhisgrace.'Graceglorifieth,Eph.2:8,'Forbygraceareyesaved.'Grace doth lay both the foundation and the topstone of glory: thatdeserveth the thanks and praise of our beginning, progress, andperfection in holiness. Every step in our ascent to Mount Sion isfreestone;everylink,asoneobservethwell,inthegoldenchainofman'ssalvation, is richly enamelled with free grace. Oh how lively doth thislovelyattributeplayitspartfromfirsttolastintherecoveryoflostman!

Thirdly, here is the instrumental cause. I say, 'by the ministry of theword.''Ofhisownwillbegatheusagainbythewordoftruth,'James1:18.Scriptureistheordinarymeansofconversion;'ThegospelofChrististhepower of God unto salvation,' Rom. 1:16. God indeed is a free agent,workingwhen,inwhatmanner,andbywhatmeanshepleaseth;thoughhetiethustomeans,hedothnottiehimselftomeans;hedothsometimesmakerelationstheinstrumentsofregeneration;somebybeingmatchedto Christians, have been married to Christ; some matches which havebeguninthefleshhaveendedintheSpirit; thereforetheapostletelleththebelievingwife, 'sheknowethnotbutshemaysaveherhusband;andthebelievinghusband,heknowethnotbuthemaysavehiswife,'1Cor.7:16; 1 Pet. 3:1.Godhathmade pious education effectual for children'sconversion: the mornings draught of wholesome instruction hath

preservedmanyyoungonesfrominfectionby,andperditionwithothers,2Tim.3:15;Prov.22:6.Somemastershavealsobeenspiritualfatherstotheirservants;therearethosethat,bybeingofthefamilyofthefaithful,havecometobeofthefamilyoffaith,Acts10:1;Josh.24Godsometimesconvertethbysufferings;affliction,liketheshepherd'sdog,hathbroughtthosehomeintothefoldofChristwhichwentastraylikelostsheep:GodhathcastsomeManassehsandprodigalsthatwerehardmetal,intosomehot fire, and therebymelted them, and fitted them to receive his ownimpressionandimage,Luke15;2Chron.33:11–13.

Butusually theministryof theword is thepen in thehandof theHolyGhost,withwhichhewriteththelawofGodintheheart.'ThelawoftheLordisperfect,convertingthesoul,'Ps.19:7.Itistheincorruptibleseedoftheword,whichbythosespiritualhusbandmenisthrownintothesoilofmen'shearts, that, through the influenceof theSunof righteousnessanddewsofheaven,springethupingraceandholiness.

1Pet.1:23.Ordinarily,thereisnootherwaytobegetgracethanthewordofgrace,andittendethnottheleasttoGod'sdishonour;nay,rathertheweaknessandmeannessoftheinstrumentinsuchcasescommendeththeworkman,becausehehathmanifestedthistobehispleasure;'Itpleasedhim through the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe,' 1Cor.1:21.Hewillgivelighttotheworldonlybythesun,thoughhecoulddo otherwise; therefore, as some observe, though light were made thefirstday,yetthesunwasnotmadetillthefourthday,toshowthatGodcouldgive light to theworldwithouta sun.ThusGodcouldconvey thespirituallightofholinesswithoutthesunofScripture,butitishiswilltomake that his ordinary means. It is the word which makes clean thefilthy, John 15:3; which sanctifieth the unholy, John 17:17; whichbegettethgraceinthosethatweregraceless,Acts2:37.Forthiscauseitiscalled the 'ingraftedword,' James 1:21; for as the scionof a goodapplegraftedintoacrabtreestockdothchangetheharsh,sournatureofit,andmaketh it sweet and pleasant, so the word preached, (for of that hespeaketh,ver.19,20,)canchangethestony,carnal,earthlyheartofman,andmakeitsoft,spiritual,andheavenly.

Some have indeed been converted by reading, as Luther, Augustine,Junius,andothersconfesstheywere;butmostcommonlyitisbyhearing

thatmen'ssoulscometolive,Rom.10:14.Thereisablessingforreaders;andtheremaybeafishortwocaughtinthenetthatisletdowninaheap,but that is rare: it is not the net lapped up together, but haled out atlength and spread all abroad, that bringeth in the draught: so it is thespreadingouttheword,thedilatingonthematterinhand,whichusuallycatchethsouls.

Thelaw,likeJohnBaptist,prepareththewayoftheLord,byopeningandsearching the festeredwoundsof thesinner,bymakinghimsensibleofhis sores, his sins and misery, and heartily desire a physician, aRedeemer, Rom. 7:9; then the gospel perfecteth a cure, by pouring oilintothewounds,andbindingthemup,byacquaintingthesoulwith,andinterestinghimin,thefreeandrichmercyofGodinChrist,2Thess.2:14.Thelaw,likeMoses,bringethtotheborders,butthegospel,likeJoshua,leadethintoCanaan.ThustheScriptures,as iswittilyexpressedbyone,arethebellswhichringall in,whichcallpeopleintothechurchofGod.Thepoets speak ofmusicwhichhavemade stones leap intowalls; thisword of God hath turned stones into flesh, of stones it hath raisedchildrenuntoAbraham.

Fourthly,Hereistheformalcauseofregeneration,wherebyGoddothatfirst renewthewholemanafterhisown image;nowbecause this is thecausewhichdothspeciallydifferenceathing,andthisbeingopened, itsnature will best appear, I shall speak themore to it, and observe in itthesefourparticulars.

1.Theact,renew.2.Thesubject,thewholeman.3.Thepattern,afterhisownimage.4.Theseasonortime,atfirst.

1.Fortheact,Icallitarenewing,andsodoththeapostle,Tit.3:5;Eph.4:23,24,uponadoubleaccount;partlybecauseinregenerationnatureisnot ruined, but rectified. The convert is the sameman, but newmade.Thefacultiesofhissoularenotdestroyed,buttheyarerefined;thesameviol,butnewtuned.Christgavenot theblindmanneweyes,butanewsighttotheoldones.ChristdidnotgiveLazarusanewbody,butenlivenhisoldbody.SoGodinconversiondothnotbestowanewunderstanding,butanewlighttotheold;noranewsoul,butanewlifetotheoldone.The powers of theman are like streams, not dried up, but turned into

another channel. The truth is, that man by his fall from God is soexceedingly degenerated and polluted, that repairing andmending willnot serve, he must be wholly and thoroughly newmade; as the houseinfectedwiththeleprosy,scrapingwouldnotdo,itmustbepulleddown,andnewsetup;butaswhenahousepulleddownisnewsetup,weusepossibly the same timber and stones, and materials, which were in itbefore,onlytheyarenewsquaredandpolished;whatisrottenoramissinthem is pared off, and what is wanting, as several things will be, areadded;sowhenthisnewbuildingofregenerationiserected,theSpiritofGodmakesuseoftheoldsubstantialmaterials—thesoulanditsfaculties,thebodyanditsmembers—whichwereinmanbefore,onlypolishethandpurifieththem,andsquareththemaccordingtotheruleofGod'sword;ithews off what is unsound and sinful, and bestoweth that grace andholiness which is needful. He taketh not away our beings, but thewickedness and crookedness of our beings, and addeth a new graciousbeautywhichwehadnotbefore.Weputofftheragsoftheoldman,andputontherobesofthenewman,andcontinueinregardofsubstancethesamemen.

Again, I call it a renewing, partly because of the great changewhich iswroughtinamanconverted.Newthingsdiffermuchfromtheoldforthebetter.Ohowwonderfullydoththenewbornsouldifferfromhisformerself! As Saul, when he received the spirit of courage, became anotherman, 1Sam. 10:6, sodoth theChristianwhenhe receiveth theSpiritofgrace.Heisnotinsumthesamemanhewasbefore;helivethanewlife,hewalketh inanewway,hesteerethhiscoursebyanewcompass,andtowardsanewcoast.Hisprincipleisnew,hispatternisnew,hispracticesarenew,hisprojectsarenew,all isnew.Heravelsoutallhehadwovebefore, and employeth himself wholly about another work. What achange is therewhen theblind see, thedeafhear, thedumbspeak, thelamewalk, thedead live,when the lion is turned intoa lamb,darknessinto light, sickness into health!—why, all this, and more, is done inregeneration,whenasinnerischangedintoasaint.It isthereforemostfitly called conversion, Acts 15:3, which is a term borrowed fromtravellers, who being out of their way, turn about, and so get into it,leavingthewayinwhichtheywere,andtakinganother,ifneedbe,quitecontrary to it. The sinner is born with his heart and face towards the

flesh, theworld,andhell,andwithhisbacktowardsGod,holiness,andheaven; and so he goeth onmany years, possibly till God convert him,and turn him about; then his back is towards the former, his face andheart towards the latter: his whole life before was a departure, everyactionbeingastep,fromGod;hiswholelifenowisadrawingnigh,everydutybeinganearerapproachtoGod.

Amanandabeastdiffermuchintheirlives;butanaturalandregenerateperson differ far more; even as far as the Spirit of God, which is theprincipleofaChristianlife,differethfromtherationalspiritofaman.

Extraordinary and strange things are called new, Act 17:19; Jer. 31:22.Wellmay the convert be called a new creature, thework of conversionmakingsuchawonderfulalterationthatcarnalmenadmireit;'theythinkitstrangethatyerunnotwiththemtothesameexcessofriot,'1Pet.4:3,4;nay those thatare thusrenewed,wonderat themselves, 'beingcalledout of darkness into his marvellous light,' 1 Pet. 2:9.Woeful darknessmakesitwonderful light.Asamanthathathbeenallhisdayskeptinadark prison and never beheld the sun, when he cometh to be set atliberty,andseethelight,hestandsamazed,wonderingatit.

2.Thesubject;Icallitarenewingofthewholeman.Asinourfirstbirth,notonepartormemberisborn,buteveryone;soinoursecondbirththewholemanisnewborn.Byourfirstbirththewholemanispolluted,andthereforebyoursecondbirth thewholemanmustbepurified.Originalsindefileththewholeman,fromthecrownoftheheadtothesolesofthefeet; and regeneration refineth the whole man, soul, body, and spirit,Rom.3:13,14;1Thes.5:23.Theplastermustbeasbroadasthesore;theleavenofgracedothseasonthewhole lump. 'Oldthingspassaway,andbeholdallthingsarebecomenew,'2Cor.5:17.Thewateroflifewithinisnotlikeaspringwhicharisethinsomeparcelofground,andterminatethinthesame,butliketheocean,whichcompassethaboutthewhole(little)world ofman.AswhenGod's lawswerewritten in tables of stone, 'thetableswerewrittenonboththeirsides,ontheonesideandontheotherwere they written,' Exod. 32:15. The tables were written all over, theywerefullofthelaw:sothespiritualtableshavethelaw,theimageofGod,written on every side, body and soul, every part of each, an inwardconformityintheheart,anoutwardcorrespondencyinthelife.

Inthenewcreature,thougheverypartbenotthroughoutsanctified,yethe is sanctified in everypart throughout; hehath a perfectionof parts,thoughnotofdegrees.

Regeneration,likethesun,goeththroughthetwelvesignsofthezodiac;there is nothing hid from the heat thereof; it moveth in, and workethupon, every faculty of the soul and everymember of the body. But theimageofGodisprincipallyinthesoul,ortheinnerman,Heb.8:10;Rom.7:22;Eph.4:23.As theheart,being the forgeof the spirits, is the chiefseat of anatural, so alsoof a spiritual life.Theking'sdaughter ismostglorious within, (though her clothing without be likewise of wroughtgold,)thereSatanbeforehadhisthrone.Itwasasachild'spocketfulloftrash,orasaditch fullofmudanddirt.ButnowChristwillmake thatplacetheseatofhisempire,andfillitlikeacabinetwithpreciousjewels;and indeed thesoul,beingspiritual, isprincipally capableofhis image,whoisaspirit.

Ishallshewhowthesoulinitsfaculties,andthebodyinitsmembers,arebothrenewed.

InthesoulIshallconsider,

1.Theunderstanding, towhich theSpiritofGodmakes itsapproach inthe first place, enlightening it in the knowledge of sin and the Saviour,Eph.4:23.Theunderstandingtoamanisasawindowtoahouse,which,beforebeingcontinuallyshut,andlittlelightappearing,itwasnowonderthattheheartlaysosluttishly,andwassofullofthedeedsofdarkness;butnowGodreneweththesoulinknowledgeaftertheimageofhimthatcreatedhim,Col.3:10.Before,thegodofthisworldhadblindedthemindthatitcouldseeneithertheemptinessoftheworld,northepreciousnessof the word, nor the loathsomeness of sin, nor the loveliness of theSaviour,nor the vanity of the creature,nor the excellencyof thedivinenature;butwhereasthemanwasblindbefore,nowheseeth;beingmadespiritual,he judgethall things, 1Cor.2:14, 15.He judgeth the thingsofheaventobefarbetterthanthethingsofearth,theconcernmentsofhissoulmuchmoreworththantheconcernmentsofhisbody,andtheaffairsofeternityfarmorepreciousthantherattlesandtriflesoftime,andallby

reason of the new sight bestowed on him. Satan truly carrieth menhoodwinked to hell, as higglers carry their fowls in dorsers to the city,where theyarekilled, that they cannot seeone footof theway;neitherknowtheywhithertheyaregoing,butGoddothnotcarrymenblindfoldtobliss;butasintheold,sointhenewcreation,hebeginnethwithlight.

The understanding in regeneration is illuminated to see two thingsespecially:sintobethegreatestevil,andGodinChristtobethegreatestgood;andIverilybelievethemistakeofthemanbeforeaboutthesetwothingswas a principal cause of themanymiscarriages in his heart andlife. Before he looked on sin through the devil's spectacles, and beheldthatstrumpetdressedinhergaudyattireofpleasureandprofit,wherebyshewastohimastheforbiddenfruittoEve,pleasanttotheeyes;butnowhe beholdeth sin through the glass of the law, (in its opposition to theblessedGodandhisownhappiness,)striptnakedofallthosecounterfeitandborrowedornaments;anditistheevilofevils,sinfulsinindeed.Hejudgeth itworse thandiseases or disgraces, than losses or crosses, yea,than serpents or devils, Rom. 7:13; Heb. 11:25; Dan. 3:17 and 6:10.Formerlyhesawnosuchhurtinsinthatprofessorsweresoshyofit,andpreacherssohotagainstit,thattheSonofGodmustdie,andthegreatestpartoftheworldbedamnedforit;butnowhehathotherthoughtsofit,forheseethitscontrarietytotheLordandhisprecepts,andsubscribethunfeignedly to the righteousness of the law. Before he saw littledesirableness in the infinitely amiable God; 'he saw no form norcomeliness inhim, thatwhenhebeheldhimheshoulddesirehim,' Isa.53.Hewonderedwhatmadeotherssomuchinlovewithhim;hisvoicewastoaChristian,'Whatisthybelovedmorethananotherbeloved,thatthoudostthusfollowhardafterhim,'forsakeallforhim,dedicatethyselfwhollytohim;thatthouprayestsofervently,hearestsodiligently,servesthim so cheerfully, art so careful to please him, so fearful of offendinghim?He judgethhimhappier thathadplentyof thecreature, thanhimthathadGodinChristforhisportion;butnowhismindisenlightenedto'knowtheonlytrueGod,andJesusChristwhomhehathsent,'John17:3.Heseethsuchbeauty inhisbeing,suchequity inhis laws,such infiniteexcellencyinthedivinenature,suchunspeakablefelicityinthefruitionofhis favour throughJesusChrist, thatheesteemethhisvery life, yea,allthatheisworthforthisandtheotherworld,asJacob'sinBenjamin,tobe

boundupintheloveandlifeofGod,Ps.73:25,and63:3.

Secondly,Theconscienceisalsorenewed;tothisfacultytheSpiritmakesitsaddressinthenextplace.Theconscienceofthemannaturallywassohardandobdurate,thatasice,throughtheextremityandcontinuanceofa great frost, you might have driven carts heavy laden over it, and itwould not break; thoughmountains of lust,more heavy than lead, layuponhim,hecomplainednot,Jer.8:6.Butnowhisconscienceisasthewaterwhichhath such a tender filmof iceupon it, that yieldeth at theleasttouch,asmallstrokeofsinmakethanimpressionuponit;beforeitwassearedwitharedhotiron,1Tim.4:2,andpastfeeling,Eph.4:17–19;asthatmemberwhichthechirurgeonintendethtocutoffissomortifiedby means applied to it for that end that it feeleth not the saw orinstrumentwhichpartsitfromthebody,sotheconsciencewasbycustomin sin so cauterised, that it felt not the sword of the Spirit; neitherministry, normisery, normiracle, normercy could prevail with it; butnowitbecomestenderandflexible;alittleprickwithapinispainfultoit;astheeye,itisoffendedwiththesmallestdust,2Chron.22:9;'itisvoidofoffencetowardsGodandman,'Acts24:16.Before,it,likeMichaiahtoAhab,never spakegood to theman,but frightenedhimwith fears, andterrified him with the pre-apprehensions of his eternal torments; itfollowed him to bed and board, and dogged him day and night like asergeant to arrest him, at the suit of themostHigh, for the vast debtswhichheowedto thedivineMajesty.Themanandhisconsciencewerelike fireandwater, theynevermet, if thehandsof consciencewerenottieddownby force,but they fought.Likesomecontentiouscouple, theywerealwaysscoldingonewithanother,andstrivingforthemastery.TheendeavourofconsciencewastheangeltoBalaamtostandinthesinner'swaywithadrawnsword,andstophiminhiscursedcourse; thecareofthesinnerwastoserveconscienceasHeroddidtheBaptist,eventocutoff its head, for having a tongue in it so bold as to check him for hiscrimes, Heb. 2:15; Rom. 2:15; Heb. 9:14. But now conscience beingsprinkled with the blood of Jesus, is purged from dead works; and sobeingpurified, ispacified.Thecreditornow is satisfiedby thepaymentwhich the surety hath made, and thereby the debtor is discharged.ConsciencenowwaitsontheChristian,notasasergeanttomolesthim,but as a servant to assisthim to itsutmostpower.The convert andhis

consciencearenowliketwoinconcertthatkeeptuneandtimetogether,orassomelovinghusbandsandwiveswhostrivemostwhichshallpleasethe other best. Conscience strives to please theChristian by asking thelaw at God's lips, and making Scripture its counsellor; the Christianstrives topleasehis consciencebyyieldinghearty subjection to itsholycounsels,Heb.9:14;1Tim.1:5;Rom.5:1.Therenewedconsciencegiveththenewcreaturemoresolidcomfort inoneduty than thenaturalman,thoughheequalMethuselah'sage,hathallhisdays,Phil.4:4.

Thirdly, The will is also renewed: the will before was carnal, crooked,stubborn, rebelliousagainstGodandhiswill, 'theworksof thedevilhewilldo,'John8:44.'AndasforthewordwhichthouhastspokentousinthenameoftheLord,wewillnotdoit,'Jer.44:16.'Itisresolvedforevilandagainstgood,'Eph.2:3;John5:40.ThisisSatan'sfort-royal,whereinhe continually secures himself in the unregenerate when he is in askirmishbeatenoutof theoutworksbysomesuddenconviction;andinthis,asSampsoninhishair,hiswholestrengthlieth.Takeawaywill,andyoutakeawayhell.ButthisfacultyisnowmadepliableandflexibletothedivineMajesty.Itismadesospiritual,regular,andconsonanttothewillofGod,thattheconvertmaysafely,ifhumbly,saywithLuther,Lord,letmywillbedone,becauseitisthywill.Godandthegodlymandonowastwofriends,willandnillthesamething,Ps.40:6,7.

As the will is a servant, it is now cheerfully subject to its Master inheaven.Itsvoiceis, 'Lord,whatwiltthouhavemetodo?'Acts9:6;and,'Speak, Lord, for thy servant heareth,' 1 Sam. 3. Do but shew it yourcommissionfromtheKingofkingsforwhatyourequire,anditpresentlydothobey,notdisputeyourcommands.

As amaster, for it is a centurion in authority, which hathmany at itscommand;itsaithtoonefaculty,Go,anditgoeth;toanother,Come,andit cometh; toa third,Do this, and itdoth it; it rulethnowaccording todivinewrit,andgiveslawstoallunderit,accordingtotheorderswhichitreceiveth fromGod its commander-in-chief;were theChristian'spowerbutanswerableandequaltohiswill,hewouldbeasholyonearthasheshallbeinheaven,Ps.119:5;Rom.7:15,18,19.

Theirongate,indeed,ofman'swillisfarfromopeningofitsownaccord;

thewillishardestwonofanyfaculty;itislikethestrongfortofZioninJerusalem, which Joshua himself could not surprise; the son of Davidalone can do it. But the Spirit ofGod doth powerfully, though sweetly,inclineittochooseGod,andforGod.Theunderstandingdiscoveringtotheconscience thenecessity,excellency,andbenefitofproclaimingandprosecutinganopenandeternalwaragainstallsin,andofacceptingandembracinganeverlastingcovenantwithGodinChrist,andofsubmittingto the guidance and government of the spirit; conscience doth in thenameofGod,whoseofficeritis,chargethewilltoclosewiththesethings;the will, the Spirit striking in, yieldeth contentedly, and resolvethaccordingly;GodpersuadesthisJaphettodwellinthetentsofShem.

4.Theaffectionsare likewise renewed.Theunderstandingandwill, thesuperior officers, beingwon, these, like faithful private soldiers, readilyfollowtheirleaders,orasdutifulhandmaids,theyobeythecommandsoftheir master and mistress. They are called by some the shapings orformingsofthewillinseveralmotions,accordingtotheobjectpresented;sothatthewill,likethesunmovingheavenward,these,likesun-flowers,mustnecessarilyfollowitsmotion.

Before, these affections were in several regards full of corruption, butnowtheyarepurifiedforthemaster'suse.Before,theywerecarriedouttowardswrongobjects, hatredwas setuponGod,Rom. 1:30;hisword,Prov. 1:29; Ps. 50:17; and people, John 15:19; love was bestowed onsensual delights, Ps. 4:2; Jer. 5:31; 2 Tim. 3:2–4; and sin, Micah 3:2;Prov. 1:22.Butnow theman loatheswhat formerlyhe loved, and loveswhatformerlyheloathed,thoughsinwerethelusciousmeatwhichdidsoexceedinglypleasehispalate,thathisteethwerealwayswateringafterit,andherolleditasasweetmorselunderhistongue;yet,nowheservesit,asAmnondidTamar,thehatredwherewithhehatesitisfargreaterthanthelovewherewithhelovedit,Ps.119:104;Rom.7:17.Hecannotseethisknifewithwhichhehad cut the throatofhisprecious soul anddearestSaviour, but his eye affects his heartwith sorrowand anger; oh, it is akillinglookwhichhenowgiveshismostbelovedlust;hecannotmeetthisbratofhell,thisuglyguestinanyroomofthehouse,buthisheartrisethagainstit.AndashatefulasGodwastohimbefore,Ps.14:2;Rom.8:5,7;yetnowhealoneisthesavourymeatwhichhissoulloveth,Ps.18:1,and

73:25. If this dish standonhis table, though all others be removed, hehaththatdishwhichhelovethbest.

Hisjoy,beforeinthecreatures,isnowinChrist,Amos6:13;Prov.2:14;Rom.5:2–4;Phil.4:4;hissorrowwasbeforeforsufferings,butitisnowforsin,2Cor.7:9–11.Hisfearwasbefore,lestheshouldlosehisflocks,orhisfriends,oroutwardmercies;butnowit is, lestbysinheshouldloseGod'sfavour,Ps.4:6;Isa.8:12,13.

Hisdesirewasbeforeenlargedaftergoldashell;butnowitisaftergraceasheaven,Hos.7:14;Ps.42:1.Mat.5:6;Ps.63:1:'Thedesireofoursoulistothyname,andtotheremembranceofthee,'Isa.26:8.

Before,theaffectionswerealsocarriedoutinordinatelyafterobjectsthatwere lawful. Themanwas like to be drowned in the shallows of lawfulenjoyments;whenhe joyed in thecreatureshewouldoverjoy,and turnthereby hismirth intomadness; when he loved his relations he wouldover-love them, and change thereby his love to them into self, or soulhatred.Soforhisanger,Eph.4:26,itwouldexceeditslimits,evenwhereitwaslawful.Forthesepassionsofthemindarelikethewaterofthesea,usefulandprofitableifkeptwithintheirbounds,butiftheyoverflowthebanks, they are very hurtful, and threaten a deluge; but the regeneratepersondothmoderateandrectifytheseaffections,Col.3:1;1John2:15;1Cor.7:29,30.Hekeepethhisfiresowatchfully,thatitdothnotburnhishouse.

Besides, the affectionswere corruptbefore, in regardof the contrarietywhichisinthem.Theydidtortureandtearthechildofdisobedience;onedrawing one way, another plucking him the contrary way; but gracecomposeth the affections which could never agree one with another;beforeconversion,hopeandfear, joyandgrief,humilityandresolution,wererepugnanttoeachother;butregenerationmakesthemgoodfriends;when the new creature's heart leaps with hope of heaven, he is thenfullestoffearlestheshoulddispleaseGod;whenheismourningforsinhecanrejoiceinhisSaviour;astheheavenscanshineandshoweratthesame time, he can bemeek and fiery asMoses, Num. 12; humble andresolute as Paul; and yet not, like Rebecca, have two contrary nationsstrugglingwithinhim.Theunderstanding,will, and conscience, are the

chiefstringsinthesoul,towhichalltherestaretuned;nowtheybeingbythe Spirit set up to their due height and holiness, the affections arewoundup accordingly, and somake a complete harmony of thewhole,andyieldagratefulsoundintheearsofGod.

5. The memory is renewed. This master of the rolls, or keeper of theancient records, was formerly as a grate, suffering the pure and clearwatertogothrough,retainingonlythemudandfilth;butnowitislikeafan,castingawaythechaff,andkeepingthegoodcorn:itwasbeforeasasieve,lettingthefineflourgothrough,andholdingfastthebran;butnowitisliketheark,whereinthetwotablesaresafelylaidup.Thesanctifiedman'smemoryisaspiritualtreasury,helayethupthethingsofGod,asMary, in his heart, Luke 2:19, and as occasion serveth, bringeth themforth, and layeth them out in his life; he remembereth thecommandmentsofGodtodothem,Exod.20;Ps.109:16.

Indeed,astherest,sothisfacultyisrenewedbutinpart;and,therefore,asinthebestroomaspidermaysetuphercobweb,inthebestgarmentstherewillbedust,sointhebestmemorytheremaybesomewhatwhichisbad and filthy; but the cleanly Christian no sooner spieth it, but hesweepsitaway.

Thisworkofregenerationdothalsoreachtothebody;thestrongcastleofthesoulbeingtakenandsanctified,thetownofthebodycommandedbyitpresentlyyieldeth.Thewheelsandpoisesbeingrightwithin,thehandofthedialwillgorightwithout.WhenSatansatonthethroneofthesoul,as king, the members of the body, which the Holy Ghost termeth inunregeneratepersons'weaponsofunrighteousness,'Rom.6:13,werehismilitia, and employed to defendhis unjust title, to execute his ungodlydesigns,toperformhishellishpleasure,theheadtoplot,thehandstoact,thefeettorun,theeyestosee,theearstohear,thetonguetospeakforhim;butaswhenanenemyisconquered,andamagazineinwaristaken,the general maketh use of those arms and of that ammunition for hisservice, which before were employed against him; so the strong manSatanbeingbeatenoutofhisstrongholdsbyChristthestrongerthanhe,the members of the body which before were instruments ofunrighteousness unto sin, are now instruments of righteousness untoGod,Rom.6:13,16.Theeyes,whichbeforewerewanton,open,andfullof

adultery, 2 Pet. 2:14, are now locked down fastwith a covenant not tolookafteramaid,Job31:1:'Theyareturnedawayfrombeholdingvanity,'Ps.119:37.Theofearswhichbeforewereasdeafastheadder,nothearingthe voice the heavenly charmer, do now hearken to what the Lordspeaketh;sosoonasthewanderingsheepisbroughthometothefoldofChrist, he is known by his ear-mark: 'He heareth Christ's voice, andfolloweth him,' John 10:27; Ps. 85:8. The breath and speech, whichbefore were corrupt, stinking, as proceeding from rotten lungs, anunsanctified heart, Rom. 3, is now sweet, seasoned with grace, for theman's inward parts are sound. Anatomists teach us that the heart andtonguehangononestring:'Themouthoftherighteousspeakethwisdom,andhistonguetalkethofjudgment;forthelawofGodisinhisheart,'Ps.37:31; his lips speak the language of Canaan. The sound of the metaldiscovers it tobe silver;his very speechbewrayethhim,as they saidofPeter,Mat.26:73,tobelongtoJesus.Hisfeetbeforemadehastetoshedblood,theyrantoevil,werethedevil'slegacytogoonhiserrands,Rom.3:15;Prov.1:16;butnowtheyare turnedtoGod's testimonies, theyruntheway ofGod's commandments, Ps. 119:1, 59.His hands beforewerefullofoppression,violence,bribery,andextortion,Ps.26:10;Prov.6:17;Satan'sservants,tomakeupthatworkwhichhecutout,butnowtheyarelifteduptoGod'slawandword.Thusintheirplacesareallthefacultiesof the soul and members of the body obedient to God's precepts andserviceabletohiswill.

Thirdly,Iobserveinthisformalcause,thepattern,itisarenewingofthewhole man after the image of God. Man's loss and misery by his fallconsisteth in these two things: 1. He lost God's image and likeness; 2.God's favour and love.Now that the secondAdammight recover us toGod'slove,hedothimprintonusGod'simage;forlikenessisthegroundof love. Therefore the regenerate are said to be partakers of the divinenature,2Pet.1:4,andthenewman,whichtheyputoninconversion,issaidtobeafterGod,andaftertheimageofhimthatcreatedthem,Eph.4:23;Col.3:10;thelawofGodiswrittenintheirhearts,Heb.8:10;whichlawisnothingbutaconformityor likenesstothenatureandwilloftheLord.ThecorruptimageofSatanandtheoldAdamisdefaced;thereforeitiscalledaputtingofftheoldman,Col.3:9:Eph.4:23;thepureimageofGodisintroduced,thereforeitiscalledaputtingonthenewman,Eph.

4:24;whichafterGodiscreatedinrighteousnessandtrueholiness;andabeingholyasGodisholy,1Pet.1:14–16.And,indeed,allthesenew-bornchildren do, so far as they are regenerate, completely resemble theirFather.Theirgodlinessisnothingbutgod-likeness,abeamofthedivineglory, a representation of God's own perfections. As the wax bears theimageoftheseal,andtheglassoftheface,sodoththenewcreaturebeartheimageofhisCreator.DavidwasamanafterGod'sownheart,becauseamaninsomemeasureafterGod'sownholiness.

Fourthly,Iobserve,inthisformalcause,theseason.IsayitistheworkofGod'sSpirit,wherebyhedothatfirstrenewthewholemanafterhisownimage. These words at first do distinguish regeneration fromsanctification. Sanctification is a constant, progressive renewing of thewholeman,wherebythenewcreaturedothdailymoreandmoredieuntosin and live unto God. Regeneration is the birth, sanctification is thegrowthofthisbabeofgrace.Inregeneration,thesunofholinessrises;insanctification it keepeth its course, and shineth brighter and brighterunto theperfectday,Prov.4:18.The former isa specifical change fromnaturetograce,Eph.5:8;thelatterisagradualchangefromonedegreeofgracetoanother,Ps.84:7,wherebytheChristiangoethfromstrengthtostrengthtillheappearbeforeGodinSion.Ascreationandpreservationdiffer,sodoconversionandsanctification.Creationistheproductionofsomething out of nothing. Preservation is a continued creation, orcreationeverymomentinanewedition.Conversionisanewcreation,2Cor.5:17—themakingofnewheavensandanewearthwhereindwellethrighteousness; sanctification is a continued conversion, or conversioneverymoment in anewer andmore correct edition.Thusmuch for theformalcauseofregeneration—arenewingofthewholemanatfirstafterGod'simage.

Fifthly,Hereisinthedefinitionthefinalcausesofregeneration,thegloryofGodandthesalvationofhiselect.Thefirstisthemore,theothertheless principal end. They are both joined together in God's decree andintention,andinthesaints'calling,andtheexecutionofhisdecree.'TheLord made all things for himself,' Prov. 16:3, but especially the newcreation: that being his masterpiece and choice work, is particularlydesignedforthecreditoftheworkman:'Allthyworksshallpraisethee,O

God,andthysaintsshallblessthee,'Ps.145:10.AllGod'sworksdopraisehim,evenearth,andheavens,andbrutes,analogically,afteramanner,byserving him in their places and stations, and giving othersmatter andoccasion of praising him. Sinners may praise him formally after amanner,astrumpetsmakealoudnoise,butarefilledonlywithwind;butsaintsonlycanpraisehimproperlyafterhismanner,insuchawayasheaccepteth.Praiseisthehighest,themostexcellentpartofdivineworship.Now,'excellentspeechbecomethnotafool,'Prov.17:7,aseverysinneris;'butpraiseiscomelyfortheupright,'Ps.33:1.Thewaterofsaints'praisesisdrawnoutofadeepspring,theheart,andsoitissweetandpleasant.ThisisGod'sgreatendinsowingthepreciousseedofgrace,thathemightreapa cropof glory:Acts 15:14, 'Goddid at first visit theGentiles, andtake out of them (mark!) a people for his name.' He makes thempartakersofhisnature,thattheymightbeapeopleforhisname.SoIsa.43:21: 'This people have I formed formyself, they shall shew forthmypraise.'God formedall thepeople in theworld forhimself, forhisownpraise. Even a Pharaoh is created and advanced, that God might beexalted,Rom.9:17.ButthisregeneratedpeopleisthepeoplewhichGodprincipallydesigneth forhisownpraise. 'Thispeople Ihave formed formyself'—other people I have passedby like old pieces ofmetal, leavingthemintheirdustandrust;butthispeopleIhavethrownintothefireofmyword,havecastthemanew,andmadethemvesselsofgold,meetformyownserviceandglory—'theyshallshewforthmypraise.'They—alas,others may praise him ignorantly, as the arrow hitteth the mark, butknoweth not its own motion; or forcedly, as he squeezeth confessionsfrom them of his justice and strength when they are under the rod orupontherack,Exod.9:27.Andthisisnothanktothewillofman,buttothepowerofGod,who,likethehuntsman,useththerageofthedogstohisownend,andmakeththewrathofmantopraisehim,Ps.76:10;oratbest they praise him but notionally, and by hearsay, as one born blindmaycommendthesun,orastrangerthecountryheneversaw.HowfarshortmustthesecomewhennocreaturecandoGodright,orlimnouthisvast perfections in their several dimensions! Surely thesemust do himwrong, and blot his name with the most curious pencil of their moststudiedpraises;butthispeopleshallshewforthmypraise.

AlexanderwouldhavenonedrawhispicturebutApelles,orcuthisstatue

butLysippus,becausenoneelsehadartenoughtodoitwell.Certainitis,nonehaveskillandwisdomtoshew forthGod'spraise,but thatpeoplewhichheformedforthatpurpose;—thispeoplewhichhavefelttheweightoftheirsins,andsmartedwithwoundsintheirsouls;thispeoplewhichhave sometimes been terrified under the apprehension of myunspeakable fury, and the expectation of the unquenchable fire; thispeople thathaveseen their corruptions in their colours, suffereddivineterrors,giventhemselvesoverfordead,damnedcreatures,andthenwerebybottomlessmercydrawnoutofthedepthofmisery,translatedoutofdeathanddarknessintothekingdomoflightandlife;thispeoplewhichIhavepurchasedwith thebloodofmySon,beautifiedwith thegracesofmy Spirit, interested in rich promises, entitled to the heavenlypossession;thispeoplewhichhavebeencarried,liketheambassadorsofthe king of Babylon, into the temple, 2 Kings 20:12, and seen all therichnessandglorythereof,thepleasuresandcomfortstherein,tastingmetobegracious,sittingundermyshadowwithgreatdelight,solacingtheirsoulswiththemeansofgrace,andrejoicinginhopeofeternalglory.Thispeople shall praise the greatness ofmy power, themanifoldness ofmywisdom,thesweetnessofmylove,thesurenessofmyword,therichesofmy mercy, the freeness of my grace, the beauty of my image, thepreciousness ofmy Christ, and all this upon their own knowledge andexperience.O thehosannahsandhallelujahs, thepraise,andglory,andhonour,and thankswhich thispeopleshallgive to theLord,and to theLambforever!Theharpsofsaintsaretunedtothesesongsonearth;butwho can conceive what ravishing music they will make in runningdivisions on these several notes in heaven! Surely, surely, the greatestrevenuesofpraisewhichcomeintoGod'sexchequer,arefromtheheartyacclamationsofhissanctifiedandsavedones.Astheyreceivethechoicestmercies,theloveofGod,thebloodofChrist,pardon,peace,grace,glory,sotheyreturnthehighestpraises.

The building ofman's body is so stately a structure, the rooms in it socurious, the hangings and furniture so rich and costly, embroidered aswithneedlework,thattheownerofthehousehathaconsiderablerentofhonourpaidforit.'Iwillpraisethee,'saithDavid,'forIamfearfullyandwonderfullymade;mysubstancewasnothidfromthee,whenIwasmadein secret, and curiously wrought in the lowest part of the earth,' Ps.

139:14,15.Thesettingupofthenewcreation,asitismoreglorious,theimage ofGod's own perfections, though it be imperfect in this life, theheartofasaintbeingbespangled,liketheheavens,withthoseglisteringstarsofgraces,andhislifebeingalegiblecommentonthedivinelaw;soitbringstheAuthoralargerincomeofhonour.ThisistheLord'sdoing,anditismarvellousinthegodlyman'seye,1Tim.1:13,14,17;1Peter1:3;butwhenthegoodworknowbegunshallbefinished,thenGod'spraisesshallbeperfected.Whenthefoundationofthisspiritualtempleislaidinthisworld,theycry,Grace,grace;butwhenthetopstoneshallbelaidinthe otherworld, then they shall cry,Glory, glory. Blessed are they thatdwell inthathouse,theyeverpraisehim;inthattempledotheveryonespeakofhisglory.ThereforethePsalmistobserveththat,whentheLordshallbuildupZion,thenheshallappearinhisglory,Ps.102:16.WhilehisChurch is building, he is glorious; but as the sun under a cloud, notappearingsotothebeholders;wecanseebutlittleofhisinfinitebeautybecause of our weak eyes, and receive but little of his infinite bountybecauseofournarrowhearts;butwhenZionshallbebuiltupinheaven,oureyesshallbestrengthenedtoseetheKinginhisglory,toseehimasheis,andthewater-potsofoursoulsenlargedandfilleduptothebrimwiththosestreamswhichmakegladthecityofGod;thentheLordshallappearinhisglory;thenheshallhavethehonourofallhisattributes,thepraiseofallhisprovidences,andthegloryofallhisperfections;forthenhe shall appear in all his royalty, embroidery,magnificence, and glory.WhenthesaintsshallhavesailedinthevesseloftheirSaviour,throughthe boisterouswaters ofmen'swrath, devils' rage, and the law's curse,and be safely landed in heaven, then God shall have his full price ofhonourandgloryfortheirfreight.

The other end of regeneration, namely, the salvation of the elect, ispurposelyomittedhere,becauseitwillbefullyspokentointhenexthead—the first reason of the doctrine. So much for the description ofregeneration.

CHAPTERIII

Thereasonwhyregenerationisnecessaryinallthatwillobtainsalvation

Inthenextplace,Ishallspeaktothereasonswhythereisanecessityofregenerationineverymanthatwouldobtainsalvation.

First,Becauseeverymanmustbepreparedfor,beforehecanbeadmittedinto, that holy place. We say in philosophy, nature doth nothing persaltum; the ground is prepared for an harvest, by being dunged,ploughed, and sowed; it is as true in this point of divinity; the God ofnaturewillnotsaveamanpersaltum,norremoveaswineoutofastye,immediately into a dining-room; nor take a sinner reeking in his lusts,and presently invest him with a crown of life; no, the man must beprepared by regeneration or holiness in part, for salvation or holinesswhichisperfect.Theheathenkingwouldnotadmitvirginstohisbedtilltheyhadbeenpurified,Esther2:12.AndsurelytheKingofkingswillnotreceiveanyintohisnearestanddearestembraces,tilltheyare'cleansedfromallpollutionsbothoffleshandspirit.'

Everymanbyhisfirstbirthispolluted,meredarkness,notreceivingthethingsofGod,Eph.5:8,merehardness,asunableasastonetomoveinthewaysofGod,Ezek.36:26;wholly captivatedunder thedominionofsin and Satan, Eph. 2:1, 2, 3, and hereby is unprepared for that holyplace.Themostgodly fatherbegettethanungodlychild: 'Adambegatasonafterhisown'(notGod's)'image,'Gen.5:3.Thewhitehalegenshatchblack young ones. Though the wheat be thrashed, fanned, and partedfrom the straw and chaff, yetwhen sowed it bringeth forthwheat bothwithstalkandhusk: 'Thatwhich isbornof the flesh is flesh,'John3:5;'nowfleshandblood,'(especiallyinthisdepravedsense,)'cannotinheritthekingdomofheaven,'1Cor.15.

A raker in privies is not fit for a king's presence, but regenerationprepareth the soul, by purifying it, for heaven; it maketh the creaturemeet for the inheritance of the saints in light, Col. 1:12.We scald andseasonvesselswithhotwater,andtherebyfitandpreparethemtohold

wine,orsomepreciousliquor;soGodseasoneththesoulwithgrace,andtherebypreparethitforglory.Graceandglorydiffernotspecificallybutgradually;grace isætas infantilisgloriæ,as learnedDavenantcalleth it,theinfancyofglory;gloryisthematurityoffullgrowthofgrace,thesamestate in a higher stature; grace is glory inchoate, glory is graceconsummate;thereforeasclothesbylightercoloursarefittedtoreceiveadeepscarletdye,soChristians,bygraceorregeneration,arepreparedforgloryandsalvation.

Thegrammarteacheththescholartoconstrueandparse,andthatfittethhimintimefortheuniversity.RegenerationteacheththeChristianwhatmediate communionwithGodmeaneth, and that fitteth for immediatecommunion.Regenerationmakesuscapableofthebeatificalvision,Mat.5:8,notasamerecondition,butasanecessarydispositionintheagenttowards its object, as the sensitive faculties are required to the act ofsensation,aswellassensibleobjects.

Andindeedheavenwouldnotbeheaven—thatis,aplaceofhappiness—tothemwhicharenotfittedforitbyholiness.Wesayofmenbroughtupinthecountry,thattheywouldnotdelightinthehonoursandpleasuresofacourt, because such things would neither suit their education ordispositions;somenwhoknownootherheaventhantoeat,anddrink,and sleep, and roar, and revel, and like swine towallow in themire ofsensuallusts,wouldneverdelightinthatplaceofspiritualandangelicalpleasures; for it would suit neither their sinful breeding nor sensualnatures.Iftheirsoreeyes,whicharecontinuallyrunningwitharheumofcorruption, cannot without pain behold the starlight of holiness in thesaints, how can theywith any delight seeGod face to face, and beholdthatblessedSuninhiseternalnoontideofpurityandglory?Therefore,asthey that are to live in another country are fitted for it by learning thelanguage,customsandcarriageofthepeopleinthatcountry,soGodwillhavethemwhoaretoliveintheheavenlycountry,learnbeforehandthework of the citizens there, namely, how to please, praise, glorify, andenjoyhismajesty.

Secondly,Everymanmustberegeneratedorhecannotbesaved,becauseall that attain heaven must be interested in the purchaser of heaven.Thosethatgotothatplacemustbeunitedto,andhaveapartinhimthat

laiddowntheprice;thoughmanmaybeapossessorofheaven,yetChristalonewasthepurchaserofit:'WehaveboldnesstoenterintotheholiestbythebloodofJesus,'Heb.10:19;Acts4:12;1John2:29.HealoneistheJacob's ladder reaching fromearth toheaven, by thehelp ofwhich theChristianmayascendthither;allotherdeedsofconveyancewillbefoundforged, and all claimsmade to the undefiled inheritancewhich are notunderhimarefalse;thereforeheaveniscalledthe'purchasedpossession,'Eph. 1:14, because bought with the precious blood of Christ; for till aman'spersonbejustifieditcanneverbeglorified;theguiltofsinmustberemoved,or the sinnercannotbe saved; the soulmustbe reconciled toGod,andacceptedasrighteousinhisSon,oritcanneverdwellwithGod,andbemadegloriousashisSon.

Therearetwochangesindispensablyrequisiteinallthatwouldbesaved.The one is the change of aman's state, or amoral change, when of abondmantosinandSatanhe ismadea freeman,John8:36,whenofaslave to the devil he ismade the son ofGod;whenhe is brought fromunderthecovenantofworks,tobeunderthecovenantofgrace;whenofanenemytoGodhe isreconciledtohimbythedeathofhisSon;whenthoughhewerefaroff,heismadenigh;thoughhewasnotbeloved,yetnowisbeloved;thoughhewasachildofwrath,isnowavesselofmercy,John1:12;Rom.5:10;Eph.2:3;Rom.9:23;1Pet.2:9,10.Theotheristhechangeofaman'snature,oraphysicalchange,whenthewholeman isrenewedafter the imageofGod.The former is relative, this is real; theformeristhechangeofhiscondition,thisofhisdisposition;theformerchange iswrought in justification, this inregeneration.Nowthechangeof aman's nature is absolutely necessary, because, till this bewrought,there is no change of aman's state; the person is unjustifiedwhile thenatureisunsanctified;forthoughChristbethepurchaserofthepardonofsin,ofpeacewithGod,ofperseverance ingrace,ofan inheritance inglory,yetitisonlyforthosethatareinhim—thatis,reallyunitedtohim:'ThereisnocondemnationtothemwhichareinChristJesus,'Rom.8:1.A virgin hath no right at all to the honours and treasure of a man,notwithstanding some well-wishes towards him, till she be married tohim,andbecomeonefleshwithhim;soaChristianhathnorightatalltothe great and good things which are Christ's, till he bemarried to theLord Jesus, and become one spirit with him; union is the ground of

communion.Probablywhenthefloodcamemanyhungabouttheark,butthewavesquicklywashedthemoff;thoseonlythatwereinthearkweresaved; thus all that hang only about Christ, the true ark, by a generalprofession,will be drowned,will be damnedwhen the deluge ofwrathcometh;theyonlythatare inhimbyareal implantationshallbesaved.Nowsaiththeapostle,andobserveitreader,'ifanymanbeinChristheisanewcreature,'2Cor.5:17.Thereforeregenerationisrequired,becausebyitthecreatureisplantedintoChrist;regenerationcutteththemanofffromhisownstock,andgraftethhim into theLordJesus; regenerationthroweth the sinner off from his own bottom, and builds him on theSaviour as a sure foundation. Regeneration is, as it were, theministerwhichmarriethChristandthesoultogether;thereinthesoulgivethitselfunfeignedly to Christ, and Christ giveth himself really to the soul, andthereby the sins and weaknesses of the soul, the wife, become thehusband's; and the riches, and righteousness, the home and heaven ofChrist,thehusband's,becomethewife's.

WhenGod converteth a sinner, he sendeth hismessenger, asAbrahamhis steward, to provide a wife for his only Son; the minister, like theservant with Rebecca, treateth with the soul, telling it how infinitelyblessed his master's son is; how rich, even the heir of all things; howbeautiful, even the fairest of ten thousands, and altogether lovely; howexceedinglythismarriagewillbeforitsadvantages;uponthis,theSpiritstriking in, the soul consenteth to takeChrist for its lord andhusband,andsobecomeththespouseoftheGodofIsaac,andhathheavenentailedonitforajointure.

CHAPTERIV

Thefirstuseofthedoctrine,containingthegrossdelusionofallunregeneratepersons

Iproceednowfromtheexplicationtotheapplicationofthedoctrine,anditmaybeusefultousseveralways.

First,Bywayofinformation;ifwithoutregenerationmenandwomencan

neverattainsalvation,thenit informethus, inthefirstplace,howgrossandhowgreat is thedelusionofgracelessand irreligiouspersons.Howexceedinglydomostsinnerscheatandcozentheirownsouls!Reader,itmaybethouartadrunkard,aswearer,ascofferatgodliness,anatheistinthyheart,inthysoul,andyetthouhopesttogettoheaven.Odesperatedelusion! I tell thee, either this text which I write of, andwhich is thewordofthetrueandlivingGod,mustbefalse,(whichthedevilhimselfisnot so great a blasphemer as to think,) or thou art a brand for theunquenchable fire. Do but look into the black list of those that are forutter darkness, and thou mayest read thy very name written there inbroadletters,1Cor.6:9,10. 'Knowyenotthattheunrighteousshallnotinherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived,' O soul-cheater; 'neitherfornicators,nor idolaters,noradulterers,noreffeminate,norabusersofthemselveswithmankind,northieves,norcovetous,nordrunkards,norrevilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God,' see Gal.5:19–21, and 6:7, 8; Eph. 5:5, 6. Friend, I could name forty texts ofScripturewhichpass sentenceofeverlastingcondemnationon thysoul,and yet thou thinkest, in despite of God and his word, to be saved. Iassurethee,profanewretch, thoucomestshortofhundredswhichshallcome short of heaven. Many bid fair, to the eyes of men, by civility,morality, and common grace, but come not up to the price, toregeneration,andsomissofthatplace;thouarteverydayaddingsintosin,drunkennesstothirst,postingintheroadtohell,andyetsayestthatthoushaltarriveatheaven!Well,withinafewdaysitshallbetriedwhosewordsaretruest,God'sorthine.

Butifthoumayestbeconvincedofthysoulflattery,beforeitbringtheeinto endless misery, I shall shew thee the utter impossibility of thysalvation while thou remainest in this condition. There are four gatesthroughwhichallmustgothatgetintothenewJerusalem,everyoneofwhichisshut,locked,barred,andboltedagainstthee.

1.Theythatgettoheavenmustgothroughthegateofelection.Asallthatwere not reckoned by genealogy were put by the priesthood as beingpolluted,Ezra2:62,soallareexcludedeternallifewhosenamesarenotwrittenintheLamb'sbookof life,Rev.20:15, 'Whosoverwasnotfoundwritteninthebookoflifewascastintothelakeoffire.'Now,thisgateof

election is shut against profaneness; thou hast not the least ground toimagine that thouart electedwhilst thouartunconverted,becauseGoddecreed all them to be sanctified whom he decreed to be saved; markthat: 2 Thes. 2:13, 14, 'Who hath chosen us to salvation throughsanctificationof theSpiritandbeliefof the truth.'TheendandthewaywerebothinGod'sthoughtstogether.Thosewhosenamesareregisteredin heaven, their natures are regenerated on earth: 'Whom he didpredestinate, themhe also called,'Rom.8:30.The first rise (saith one)andspringofmercy iselection,whichbreakethoutbyeffectual calling,andsoflowethdowninthechannelsoffaithandholinesstillitlosesitselfintheoceanofglory.VocationistheoutwardexpressionofGod'sinwardintention to save a sinner, or the first impression of the seal upon thewax;thereforeelectionandvocationarebothconjoined,Rev.17:14;nay,theoneisputfortheother,1Cor.1:26,27,becausetheyareinseparablecompanions;sothatifthynamebewritteninthebookoflife,thynaturewouldberenewedtoliveaspirituallife,2Tim.1:9;1Pet.1:2.Therefore,reader, if ever thou reachest heaven in this estate of unholiness, thoumustmakeablotnotonlyintheBible,butinthebookoflife.

2. All that go to heaven must go through the gate of Christ's passion:'There isnonameunderheavengivenamongmenbywhichwemaybesaved, but the name of Jesus Christ,' Acts 4:12. And it is the death ofChristwhichpurchasetheternal life forChristians;as thesownseedbydying bringeth forth a plentiful increase, so Christ by dying 'bringethmanysonstoglory,'John12:24;Heb.2:10;butthisgraceisshutagainstthee,forthoseforwhomChristpurchasedglory,forthemhepurchasedgrace.TheSonofGodlaiddownthesamepriceforboth;sothatifeverhedelivertheefromthecondemningpowerofsin,hewilldelivertheefromthecommandingpowerofsin:Tit.2:14, 'Hegavehimselfforus,thathemight redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiarpeople,zealousofgoodworks;'soLuke1:71,72,74,75;Ephes.5:25,26,'Hegavehimselfforhischurch,'(observetheend,)'thathemightsanctifyandcleanseit.'Hediedforsin,thatallhismightdietosin,John17:19.Hepouredouthisheart-bloodthatGodmightpourdownhisholySpirit.'HisnameiscalledJesus,becausehesavethhispeoplefromtheirsins,'Matt. 1:21, not only from the punishment, but also from the power oftheirsins.Now,canstthouthink,Oatheist!tomakeChristahalfSaviour,

as the Papists do, a purchaser of pardon, but not of purity? thenquestionless thoucanstbebuthalf-saved,andhave thegreatestpartofthymiserystilluponthee,towit,thyslaverytosin.Butsurelythoucanstnotthink,thatwhenjustificationandsanctificationarejoinedtogetherinthepurposeoftheFather,andthepurchaseoftheSon,itshallbeinthypowertopartthemasunder.

3.AthirdgatethroughwhichallmustgothatgettoheavenisthegateofScripture. The promises are the gracious deeds and evidences whichsaintshave toshowfor theirright to thatglorious inheritance;and it iscursedpresumptiontoexpectheavenwithoutapromise.NowGodhathinmanyplacesexcludedthee,but innoplacepromisedheavento thee.LookfromthebeginningtotheendoftheBible,andthoushaltnotfindonegoodword spoken to thee; therearewoesand curses, threateningsandjudgments,whichthoumayestchallengeasthypartandportion,butnopromiseorsavingblessing.

Allthepromisesofsalvationareconditional,Matt.5:8,11,28;John3:16;yea,includingandexpressingthisveryconditionofconversion.'Hethatbelieveth shall be saved,' saithGod,Mark 16:16. 'And repent, that yoursinsmay be blotted out,' Acts. 3:19. The body and soul do specificallyconstitute thewhole newman, andupon those twohinges of faith andrepentance do all the saving promises in the Bible hang; therefore thyexpectanceof thepromise,without theperformanceof thecondition, issoul-damning delusion; thoumayest like a dog snatch at the children'sbread,thepromise,butassurethyself,'thouhastnolotnorpartinthesematters.'

This, reader, is thedifferencebetwixtpresuming andbelieving;he thatbelieveth, finding in his own soul the conditions mentioned in thepromises of eternal life—as, namely, that he walks after the spirit,mortifieththedeedsoftheflesh,hathhisconversationinheaven,Rom.8:1,Phil. 3:19, and the like—reliethonChrist forpardonand life,uponthewarrantandsecurityofhiswordandpromise,Psal.119:114,145.Hethat presumeth, looketh that God should perform his part in givingsalvation,butnevermindethwhetherheperformhispartofthepromiseinobservingthecondition.Letthyconsciencebejudgewhetherthouartnotsuchapresumptuousperson,andthereforedostinvainlookforthe

fruitofthepromise.

4.Allthatgettoheavenmustgothroughthegateofmediatecommunion.Heavenmustbenightheebeforethoucanstbeinheaven;itisfellowshipwithGodinthisworldwhichfittethforfellowshipwithGodintheotherworld:'WithoutholinessnoneshallseeGod,'Heb.12:14.Becausewithoutholiness none can see God; an unholy mind cannot behold him, anunholywillcannotenjoyhim,unholyaffectionscannotdelightinhim.Anunholymaninheavencouldnotfinditaplaceofhappiness,foritisnotaTurkishparadise,butaplaceofholypleasures;itismediatecommunionwhich doth capacitate the soul for immediate communion; and as theweakereyesmaybeholdthesuninitsbeams,theninitsgloriousbodyatthehighestinaclearday,soasmallerdegreeofholinesswillenablethesoultoseeGodintheglassofhisordinances,thentoseehimfacetoface.Now, thoucanstnotenjoyhim in this imperfectdegree,much less inastateofperfection:'Ifthousayestthatthouhastfellowshipwithhim,andwalkestindarkness,thouliest,'1John1:6.Mark:ifthousayestthatthouenjoyestfellowshipwithGod,andleadestasinfullife,thoutellestabroadlie; all that enjoy the ordinances of God do not enjoy the God ofordinances; all that go to church do not meet with Christ: 'Whatcommunion hath light with darkness, or Christ with Belial?' Truly nomorehathGodwiththysoul.Princesarenotsoprodigaloftheirintimatefriendshipandfavourastothrowthemawayupontheirfoes.Thycarnalmind is enmity against God; God is a professed enemy to thee, andthereforecantheyeverwalktogethertilltheybeagreed?Now,thereisanecessity of walking with him before thou canst be translated to him,Gen.5:21,or else thouhast foundoutanearerway toheaven than thechildrenofGodwentin.

Besides,theScripturespeakethplainly,thathewhohathatruehopeofheaven 'doth purify himself as God is pure,' 1 John 3:3. True hopebegetteth and increaseth holiness. Now, doth thy hope cause thee topurify thyself, when, like an infant, thou pollutest thyself, liestcontentedlyinthyfilth,andnevermindestcleansing?

Now tell me, reader, whether thou dost not sadly cozen thyself indreamingofsalvationwithoutregeneration,whenGodpredestinatedallto be conformable to the image of his Son in glory, Rom. 8:29; when

JesusChristsufferednotonlytoprocurepardon,but,forallhis,freedomfrom the power of sin; when the promises of the gospel do expressregenerationastheindispensablequalificationofallthatshallbesaved,Acts 3:19; and when thou art so far from being capable of immediatecommunion hereafter, that it is impossible that thou shouldest in thycarnal estate have mediate communion with him here? Canst thoucontinue in thy thoughts that heaven shall be open to thee, when thehandofAlmightyGodhathshutitagainstthee,andblockedupeverywaywhich leads to it tokeep theeout?andhowdeceitfully anddesperatelywickedisthyhearttopromisethee,ifthouwiltservesinandtheworld,the beautiful Rachel of heaven, when, after all thy slavery to thy lusts,thou shalt be put off with the blear-eyed Leah of hell! Believe not, Oreader, thewickedone, if thou lovest the lifeof thysoul;hemaybyhislying spirit in thy heart, as sometimes in the mouth of Ahab's falseprophets,persuadetheetogooninthysinfulcourses,andpromisethee,ashedidAhab,thatthoushaltprosper;butifthoudostnotperishifthoufollowestsuchcounsel,theLordhathnotspokeninhisword.Itellthee,man,God hath no birthrights for such profaneEsaus, nor inheritancesforsuchscoffingIshmaels;'departfromme,'willbethedoomofallthatare 'workers of iniquity,'Matt. 7:23. 'Into heaven can in no wise enteranything that is unclean,' Rev. 21:27. The earthmay bear such wickedones a while, though not without groans to be eased of such burdens,Rom.8:22,butheavenwillneverbepesteredwiththem.

Ifthoudidsttraveltowardsthewest,thyreasonwouldtelltheetherewasnopossibilityofarrivingattheeastwithoutturningabout;yetthougoestinthebroadwaytodestruction,andthyreligionbidstheenottoexpectheaven without conversion. Well, see what God saith to thee, and beconfidentthatwhathespeakethhewilldo:Deut.29:19,20,'Anditcometopass,whenheheareththewordofthiscurse,thatheblesshimselfinhisheart,saying,Ishallhavepeace,thoughIwalkintheimaginationsofmyheart,toadddrunkennesstothirst:TheLordwillnotsparehim,buttheangeroftheLordandhisjealousyshallsmokeagainstthatman,andall the curses that arewritten in this book shall lie upon him, and theLord shall blot out his name from under heaven.' O look to it, friend,before it be too late, otherwise this rock of presumptionwill split theeeternally; forChristhimselfhath said that, 'except thouartbornagain,

thoushaltneverseethekingdomofGod.'

CHAPTERV

ShewingtheinsufficiencyoftenparticularstospeakaChristian'srighttoheaven

Secondly, Ifwithout regeneration itbe impossible toattain salvation, itinformethusoftheinsufficiencyofseveralthingstospeakaman'srighttofelicity.Forthisisacertaintruth,thatwhatsoevercomethshortofthisnewbirth, orwhatsoevermayhappen to, orbe in amanunregenerate,thatisafalseevidenceforourtitletotheundefiledinheritance,becauseregenerationisabsolutelynecessary.

Now, there are nine or ten sandy foundations which many build theirhopesupon,allwhichcomeshortofregeneration,(thoughmostofthemaregoodthings,forIspeaknotagainstthem,butagainstrestinginthemas infallible signs of sincerity,) and therefore,when the storm of deathcometh, theywill fail, and then thehouseof theirhopeswill fall to theground.

First, Civil practices are but a slender evidence of thy right to the holyplace.Civilityiscommendable,butwithoutsanctityitisnotsufficient.Amere civil and sanctifiedmandiffer asmuchas a lifelesspicture and alivingperson.Thoumayestmakeafairshowintheflesh,andbewhollyastranger to this life after the Spirit. Paulwas one of the strictest of thePharisees,concerningtherighteousnessof the lawblameless,eventhenwhenhewasoutofzealpersecutingthechurch,andinanunregenerateestate,Phil.3:6.Thosefoolishpersonsthatweredeniedentranceintothepurchased possession were virgins; they walked innocently andinoffensively, andhadnot defiled their garmentswith gross pollutions,butyetwereunconverted,having(thoughsomeintheirlamps)nooilintheir vessels,Mat. 25:1, and thereforewere excluded the inheritance ofthesaintsinlight.

TheyoungrichmanwhocametoChristandtoldhimthathehadkeptall

the commandments from his youth, Mark 10:20, probably had donemuchastotheoutwardmeaningofthelawandtotheoutwardmotionsofhislife;forJesus,beholdinghim,lovedhim,ver.21;andyettheman,notwithstanding his specious actions, had unsanctified affections,otherwisehewouldneverhaverunfromChristasheavilyashecametohim hastily, and put his corruptible silver into the scales with, andsuffered it to weigh down, the incomparable Saviour, ver. 22; thePharisee that boasted so much of himself was likely guiltless ofscandaloussins:Luke18:11,'God,IthanktheethatIamnotasothermenare, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican.' Hisreligion, as usually the civilian's, consisted in negatives; he thought allwaswellbecausehecouldsayhewasno fornicator,nocheaterofmen;buthemighthaveaddedthathewasnobeliever,nochildofGod;forallhis fair pretences and splendid practices he was both an unjust andunsanctifiedperson,ver.14.

How often doth sin reign in the inward when it doth not rage in theoutwardman!Akingisastrulyakinginhisbed-chamberandclosetinsecretasinhisparliamentrobesoronhisthroneinpublic.Now,wheresin hath dominion, there the man or woman is in a carnal condition,Rom.6:17.

Howdid vicedomineer in thehearts of theheathen,whennothingbutvirtueappearedintheirfaces!PrideinDiogenes,saithone,wasbutputup in a sloven's case when he trampled on Plato's carpets; and thatrenowned Curius, that supped on roots, had ambition for his sauce.Civilitymayarisefromeducation,example,shame,orfear;butasneitherof these is physic strong enough to purge out corruption, but as weakremediesusetodo,sotheselenitivesgivemoremasterytothedisease.

Amongbeasts thereareharmless lambsaswellashurtful lions;amongbirdsthereareinnocentdovesaswellasravenousvultures;andyettheyhave all the same specifical nature of brutes. Among men some havebetter nurture, and (possibly from thence) better natures than others;someare churlishandcruel,others courteousandcivil; somemildandmorally righteous, others mad and desperately outrageous; and yet allmay flow from the same human nature. As the same earth is in someplantsbitter,inotherssweet,inbothearthly;sothesamehumannature

may be in somemore pleasing, in othersmore poisonous, in both buthuman,neitherbeingpartakerofthedivinenature.Somearelikeswineinafairmeadow,morecleanly;otherswallowinginthemire,moredirty;andbothswine.Ourcivillawsaithofmixedbeasts,elephantsandcamels,that theydo theworkof tamebeasts,buthave thenatureofwildones.Suchareourmerecivilmen;theirnatureiswildthoughtheiractionsaretame.Thebear,as is reported,bringeth forthmostuglyandmisshapenwhelps, but by licking them,brings them to abetter form; yet they arebearsstill.Thusallmenareuglyandnotoriouslyvilebytheirbirths,allfull of wickedness as the ocean is of waters; good breeding, learning,livingamong themthataregodly,may lick them fairandcivil, andputthemintoabetterform,andyetstilltheymayremainunsanctified.ThelionswhichsparedDanielwerelionsstill,asappearedbytheirdevouringothers,thoughGoddidrestrainthemawhileforthesafetyofhisservant.Awater-coursemaybedammeduporstoppedbyabank,thoughatthesame time it hath a violent inclination to run over. I have sometimethoughtthatamerecivilmanislikeaCapuchinfriar,thatstartethbackatthesightofmoney,asifitwereasnakeorserpent,butcarriethaboyalong with him that takes all which the demure friar refuseth, andcomplainsneitherofcolournorweight;sothecivilmaninhislifestartsback from sin, as if he durst not touch that venomous creature, but hecarriethaheartalongwithhimthatreceivethinall,(havingnoportertoexaminewhogoethinorout,)andwithoutcomplainingeitherofcolourorweight.

Reader, it may be thou art no drunkard, no swearer, no scoffer atgodliness, no adulterer, no liar. I wish we had more that came so fartowardsheaven.Buttakeheedofrestinghere;thoumayestbeabletosayallthisandmuchmore,andyetinthee,asintheyoungman,theremaybe one thing lacking, namely, this new life. He that went to make hispicturestandalonesawat lasthismistake,andcriedout,Deestaliquidintus, 'there issomethingwantingwithin,hemeant life:so itmaybe inthee. Believe it, there is a vast difference betwixt restraining andrenewinggrace;theformermayskinoverandcovertheloathsomesoreofsin,whenthelatterdothsearchandcureit.Civility,likeablackpatch,dothhidethewound;butsanctity,likeaplaster,dothbothhideandhealit. It is possible that thou dost not outwardly abound with the same

corruptions which others do, because thou hast not the sametemptations. Thy heartmay be a vessel full of poisonous liquor, whichmay remain undiscovered till thou hast a temptation to broach it. Thylustsmaybeasgreat rebels againstGod, though they lie lurking in thesecrettrenchesofthyheart,anddarenotforfearorshameappearintheopenfieldofthylife.

Thycivilityisamercy,andthouartboundtoblessGodforit.ButOtakeheedoftrustingtoitasasureevidenceofthygoodestate,forcertainlyitprovethnotseldomamoreneatandcleanlywaytoendlessandeaselesswoe.

Secondly, A glorious profession is no infallible evidence of thy right tolife.ItisgoodtoprofessChristianity.Religionissonoble,sobountifulamaster, that none need be afraid to be counted her servant. We mustconfessChristbeforemen, ifwewouldhaveChrist toconfessusbeforehisFatherand theholyangels,Mat. 10:31.He thatdisownshis coloursdeservestobecashieredthecamp.Butconfessionofthemouthmustbeaccompaniedwithconversionoftheheart,oritwillnotsave;thatisbuttheshadow,this is thesubstanceofreligion.AChristian innameandaChristianinnaturedoexceedinglydiffer.Theprofessionandthepowerofgodlinessdiffer,asleavesonatreeandgoodfruit;atreethathathfruitwillhaveleaves;amanthathaththepowerwillhaveaformofgodliness;but as some trees, as the ivy, are never without leaves, yet never beargoodfruitwhiletheylive,somanyprofessChristalltheirdays,whoneverbringforthfruitworthyofrepentanceandamendmentoflife.Somedefythedevilwiththeirlipswhodeifyhimintheirlives.Theremaybegaudysigns at the door,where there is not a drop of goodwine in the cellar.Apothecaries' boxes have glorious titles, evenwhen they are altogetherempty.ManyChristiansinourdaysarelikeacuriousbubble,smoothandshiningwithout,butnothingsavewindwithin;'professingthattheyknowGod,butinworkstheydenyhim,beingabominable,disobedient,andtoeverygoodworkreprobate,'Tit.1:16.AmanmaywearChrist'sliveryanddo the devil's drudgery. Judas called Jesus master, yet betrayed him.Thoumayest,liketheJews,putacrownonChrist'shead,asceptreinhishand,andbowthekneetohimasifhewerethyking,andyetallbebutinmockery; thoumayest crucify andputhim todeath, for all this, by thy

sinfulungodlylife.Silverlookethwhite,andyetdrawethblacklines;thyprofessionmaybefairwhenthypracticesarefoul.Sinissouglythatitisashamedofthelight,andthereforewalksnotopenly,asChrist,forfearofthe people, though for a different reason from his, lest it should frightthem from continuing its friend; but as a thief it goeth abroad in thenight,andthenwithvizardsandfalsebeards,unwillingtobeknownwhotheyare,evenwithaformofgodliness,1Tim.3:1–5.Ahypocrite,likeabankrupt, the less substance he hath, the more shew he maketh. Theostrich hath great feathers, but cannot fly. Christ compareth him to atomb,whichiswithoutcomely,withinunsavoury.

Gooddothnotalwaysappearwiththesamebeauty,beingcloudedwithcorruption; so evil doth seldom appear in its native deformity, but likeJezebel, fills up the wrinkles of its face with artificial daubery. WhenAbsalomintendedhisunnaturalrebellion,hepretendedreligion;hehadavowwhichhemustpay,2Sam.15:7.WhenSimeonandLevidesignedmurderanddeath to theShechemites, theyhangoutdevotion for theircolours:'Theymaynotmarrytheirsistertoonethatwasuncircumcised,'Gen. 34:14. Thusmany lead religion about aswandering cheaters do amonstrouswoman,whomtheynowayaffect,merelytogetmoneybyit,fortheirownpraiseorprofit,butdonotentertainherastheirmistress,givingherthepowerandkeysoftheirhearts.

Whenreligion is in fashion,manywilldress themselvesbyher looking-glass;Joabhimself, thoughamanofblood,will learnher language;seehow exactly he speaks in her dialect, 1 Chron. 19:13. If the Jewsprospered, the Samaritans and they were kindred. The rising sun isadoredbythePersians.Summerbringsinnotonlyherbsandfruits,butbutterflies and caterpillars which feed on them, and attire themselveswiththeliveryoftheseason:sointheprosperousestateofreligionmanysummerbirdswillwaitonher,andcourtheroutof lovetoherportion,nottoherperson;buttheselikepiratesputtheirvessels intocoloursofnationswhich theyabhor,not to serve them faithfully,but to rob themthemoreeasily;asSanballatandTobiahmadeshowtohelp,whentheiraimwastohindertheJews.Andtrulysuchalamporblazingprofessionwillquicklygooutforwantofoilinthevessel,thisinwardregeneration.Thy rotten house will fall, when these earthly props of treasure of

honourswhichshrouditup,aretakenaway:likethemoonthoumayestshinebrightlytheformerpartofthenight,butsetbeforemorning.

Thehare,whensheishotlypursued,betakesherselftosomebeatenpath,notforanyloveshehathtoit,butthattherebythescentofpassengersshemay loseherscent,andtakeoff thedogs:somanyprofanepersonsthat have robbed the state, being pursued, betake themselves to thechurchpath,notfordevotion,butthattheymightlosethescentoftheirvileness,andtakeofftheirprosecutors.

Thyprofession, reader, isoneof theweakest foundations imaginable tobuildupon, forthypracticesmayeveryhourgivethyprofessionthe lie.ThePopeprofessethhimself the servant of servants, and yet even then'exalteth himself above all that is calledGod,' 2 Thes. 2:4. And he thatprofessethhimselfsohumbleastodoservicetothemeanestChristian,isyet so proud as to take merit from Christ himself. Every one that isclothed in black is not a scholar, nor every one that wears a sword asoldier;neitheriseveryprofessoratrueanduprightbeliever.Pharnacessenta crown toCæsar,whenat the same timehe rebelledagainsthim;butCæsarsentbackthecrown,withthismessage,Lethimreturntohisobedience first, and then Iwill accept the crown: thusGodwill not begraced with our crowns of profession, unless that be crowned with agraciousconversation;'HeisnotaJewwhichisoneoutwardly,neitheristhatcircumcisionwhichisoutwardintheflesh;butheisaJewwhichisoneinwardly,andcircumcisionisthatintheheart,whosepraiseisnotofmenbutofGod,'Rom.2:28,29.

Thirdly, spiritual privileges are no sure sign that thine eternal estate issafe; we read of them that were 'Israelites, to whom pertained theadoption,theglory,thecovenants,thegivingofthelaw,andtheserviceofGod,andthepromises;whosewerethefathers,ofwhomasconcerningthefleshChristcame,whoisoverall,Godblessedforever,'Rom.9:4,5;andyetmanyofthemperishednotwithstandingallthesegreatprivileges.Paulhadgloriousprivilegeswhenhewasagracelessperson,Phil.3:5,6.Thoumayestenjoysermons,sacraments,Sabbaths,seasonsofgrace,thesocietyofsaints,andyetmissatlastofsalvation.Allthatareinafamilyarenotchildren,thoughtheypossiblyfeedatthesametable,andlodgeinthe same chamber. All that enjoy church ministry are not church

members;DoegmaysethisfootwithinthehouseofGodasfarasDavid,Judasmaypartakeofthesameprivilegeswiththeapostles,andyetbeadevil; theoutwardcourtwas larger than the inner;andsoGod'svisiblechurch takesmore in thanhis invisible.Taresmaybe in the same fieldwithwheat,enjoyingthesamebenefitofthesun,rain,andearth,andyetaretaresstill.TheJewsboastedmuchthattheywereAbraham'schildren,Mat. 3, and yet truth itself tells them that theywere of their father thedevil,John8:44.'Circumcisionisnothing,noruncircumcision,butanewcreature,' Gal. 6:15. Where the new creation is wanting, spiritualprivilegesarebutassealstoablank,andsignifylittle.Regenerationisthefigurewhichismissing;they,ascyphers,standfornothing.

The voice of many among us now is like to the voice of the Jewsheretofore, 1 Sam. 4:3, in time of their distress: 'Bring us the ark,' saythey, 'that that may save us,' when, alas, they were destroyed by thePhilistines for all their ark: so thou reader, when conscience frighteththee, or death comes nigh thee, probably speakest in thy heart, comebringme the ark, that thatmay saveme;bringme the sacrament, thatshallsaveme;thourunnesttothybaptism,tothySabbath,toprivileges,and thence concludest that thou canst not be condemned; when, alas,thoumayestgotohell-fireforallthyfont-water,andtoeternaltormentsthough thou hast often been at the Lord's table, Mat. 7:22. Baptismalwater isnoteven the laverof regeneration;manysitat theLord's tablewhichdonottasteofhissupper.AllinthechurchmayhearthewordofChrist,butfewhearChristinhisword.ItisordinarytoenjoytheSabbathoftheLord,butnotsotoenjoytheLordofSabbaths.Outwardprivilegesare of great value in themselves, but like a jewelwhich some speak of,they lose their virtue if put into a dead man's mouth; they are of noefficacyorbenefit to thy soulwhilst thou continuestdead in trespassesand sin: unregenerate Israel was to God as Ethiopia, Amos 9:7, for alltheirprivileges;GentilesregeneratedarecalledJews,Gal.6:16;andJewsunregenerated are called Gentiles, Amorites, Hittites, Sodomites, Ezek.16:3;Hosea12:7;Isa.1:10.

SpiritualprivilegesalwayscommendGodtous,butnotustoGod.Theirabusewillbeadreadfulincreaseofthydamnation,buttheirbareusewillbe a pitiful plea for salvation. Howmany live all their days under the

meansofgrace,thatnevergetonedramofgraceintheuseofthemeans!Corazin, Bethsaida, and Capernaum, who had the privilege to hearChrist's oracles, and to seehismiracles,were sad seals to these truths,Mat.11;fortheywerelightedtothechambersofutterdarknesswiththetorchesofordinances.Restnot inthis,reader, forthoumayestbe liftedup to heaven in the enjoyment of privileges, and cast down to hell formisimprovement of them. Thou mayest, like the Decii, leap into thegaping gulf at noon-day; or, like the Egyptians, follow the pillar of fireintothedeep,andperish;nay,whichissaddestofall,asashipwhichissinking,themoreitisladen,thoughitbewithsilverandgold,thedeeperit sinketh: so thehigher thyprivileges, if thouperishest, thedeeper thyperdition.ThoumayestflylikeJoabtothealtarofprivileges,butifthouartunregenerate,hethatisgreaterthanSolomon,willplucktheethence,orslaytheethere.Theunsuitablenessofthylifetothediscoveriesofhislove,dothbuttellhimtohisfacethatthouartnotcarefultoanswerhiminhismatters;thatthouwiltnotservehisSon,norworshipthemediatorwhom he hath set up, and hereby thou dost but (notwithstanding thypreferment)provokehim themore, and causehim, asNebuchadnezzartheoven,toheathellseventimeshotter:thyprivileges,likeoilandpitch,willmake that fire to scald and scorch themore terribly.Weeds in thegarden are soonerpluckedup thanweeds in thehighway.No trees aremore surely for the fire than those which are planted in God's ownvineyardandbearnofruit.

Fourthly,greatgiftsandpartswillnotspeakthyrighttoglory.Edifyinggiftsandsanctifyinggracedoabundantlydiffer.Thoumayesthaveaclearhead, and yet anuncleanheart.We readof them thatwere famous forgifts and parts, and infamous for profaneness; who might preachprofitably,andyetwereworkersof iniquity;whohad thegiftofcastingoutdevils, and forall that,were cast todevils,Mat. 7:22,23.Ministersmay,likeNoah'scarpenters,buildanarktosaveothers,andbedrowned,be damned themselves: theymay carry a lantern whichmay enlightenothers,whiletheygointhedarkthemselves:thoumayest,asalandmark,directothersintherightway,andneversetafootthyselfinit.HowholilydidBalaamprophesy,andyethowhellishlydidhepractise!surely,likeaburning-glass,hehathfiredmanyothersbyhisheavenlylanguage,yethehimselfneverfired.ManyhavegiftsfromGodwhoneverhavethegiftof

God, John 4:10. The raven was an unclean creature, yet she wasserviceabletozealousElijah.

Giftsmaybeintheireminencywheresinisinitspredominancy.Thetoadhath a pearl, say some, in its head,when thewhole body is poisonous.Thedevilcanspeakexcellently: 'Weknowthee,OthouarttheholyOneofGod;' and 'these are the servants of themost highGod;' For naturalpartsandgifts,questionlesshesurpassethallmenonearth,andyetheisadevilstill.Thepantherhathasweet-scentedbreath,butarottenheart.It is possible to pray like a saint, to preach like an angel, and yet topractiselikeadevil.Thecourseofthylifewillspeakmuchmorefortheethanthediscourseofthylips.Thoughthygiftsbeneversogreat,andthypartsneversoglorious;thoughthouspeakestwiththetongueofmenandangels,andhastnotgrace—thisnewbirth—thouart likesoundingbrassandatinklingcymbal.

Thypartsmayflowfromnature,notfromsavinggrace.Men,indeed,asblades, are all made of the same metal, yet differ much by means oftemper; some aremore soft and smooth,more keen and sharp; othersmoredullandblunt,morestiffandstubborn;forthoughitbeconfessedthesoulofSolomon,ascreatedand infused,differethnothing fromthesoulofNabal, yetbeing toworkbybodilyorgans,heractions resembleher instruments.Aman cannotmake suchgood letterswith ablotting,scragged,aswithagoodpen.Thebetterthetoolis,thebettertheworkisdone with it. Some children takemore after their parents than others.Though nature hath little to give, yet she deals more bountifully withsomethanwithothers.

Nowwhatagrossmistakeisthis,fortheetotakethecrabs,whichgrowinthecommonhedgerowsofnature,tobefruitsoftheSpirit,asiftheygrewin God's own nursery! Knowest thou not that the false prophets wereadmiredbymenfortheirparts,andabhorredbyGodfortheirimpiety?

Friend,thoumayest,likethetenspies,gooverthepromisedlandinthycontemplations,viewthecountry,tastethefruit,andcommendithighlytoothers,tellthemthatthelandisgood,itflowethwithmilkandhoney,and for all this never enjoy one foot of it. Parts and piety differspecifically.Gifts, likethemoon,havesomeglimmeringborrowedlight,

but no enlivening heat; when grace, like the sun, hath a clearer nativelight, and a quickening refreshing heat. Men, indeed, like the truemother,mayhavethedeadchildofgiftsputintotheirarms,whilsttheyareasleepinthenightofthislife,andthinkthattheyhavethelivingchildofgrace;butwhentheyawakeinthemorningofdeath,theywillfindthecontrary.Forthoughthygiftsglisterlikeglow-wormsinthedarknightofthisworld,yet,ifseparatedfromgrace,inthedayoftheotherworldtheywillallvanishanddisappear.O then itwillbeknownthatonedramofgraceismoreworththanaworldofgifts.

Fifthly,Thysacredperformancesarenotasufficientevidenceforheaven.Observe, reader, I shall not condemn, nay, I do highly commend thyexternal obedience to the divine precepts, though thou shouldst beunregenerate,because fewcomeso far.Athanasiuswishedthatallwerehypocrites, and that there were none but such as at least resembledsaints. It is good towait at thepool.Christmaycome,ashedid to thecripple, and heal thy diseased soul. It may be as much worth as thyeternalwealtolieastheblindmandid,inChrist'sway;hemayspeakandbeginsuchaspiritualsightinthee,asmayendinseeingGodasheis.ButIamnowtellingthee,that it is ill trustingtobaredutiesassignsofthysalvation; forthoumayestmindpersonal,relative,secret, family,publicduties,andyetbeunregenerateandperish.Hethatdothnotthesethingsiscertainlynotgood,buthethatdoththemcannot thenceconcludehisestatetobegracious.

Thoumustdoallastotheoutsidewhichasaintcando,orthoucanstnotbeanhypocrite—foranhypocriteistheperfectpictureofagodlyperson.Now,becauseanhypocritewhichisunregeneratemaygosofar,thereforethesethingsarenotsuresignsofsavinggrace.

Thephariseesgavealms,made longprayers, fasted, (andsomeof themtwice in a week,) and yet you knowwhat Christ saith—that except ourrighteousnessexceed the righteousnessof thescribesandpharisees,weshould not inherit the kingdom of God, Mat. 5:20. They were—someespecially—sofrequentattheirdutiestowardsGod,sorighteousintheirdealings withmen to the eyes of others, that the Jews had a commonsaying,thatifbuttwointheworldshouldbesaved,theoneshouldbeascribe,theotherapharisee.Andyet,ifthouwiltbelievetheLordJesus,

hethatgoesnotbeyondthemboth,shallcomeshortofheaven:andthereasonisplain—becausetheywerenotregenerated.Theirpracticeswereseeminglygood,buttheirprinciplesreallybad.Thetreewascorrupt,andtherefore could not bring forth good fruit,Mat. 7:17. The Israelites didseekGoddaily,saiththeprophet;theydelightedtoknowhisways;theyaskedofhimtheordinancesofjustice,andtheydelightedinapproachingtohim, Isa. 58:2.They thereheardandprayed, andbothwith seemingdelight; nay, they joined fasting to prayer, ver. 3; further, they addmourning to fasting,Zech. 7:4, 5.Andyet all thiswasbut the face, theshell,theappearanceofreligion,andtherebyofnoacceptancewithGod.If any beast were sacrificed by heathens without an heart, it wasaccountedominoustothepersonforwhomitwasoffered,asinthecaseof Julian. Now all the sacrifices of hypocrites are without a heart, Isa.28:22.

It isrecordedthat inacertainislandtothesouthwardofCelebes,nightby night among the trees do shew themselves swarms of fiery worms,whichmakeashow,andgivesuchlightasifallthetwigsofthetreeswerelightedcandles,andtheplacethestarrysphere;andyetallthisisbutanappearance. Truly thus formal persons may seem by their duties bothlightsomeandfiery,andyetbebutasemblanceandflourish.

Low, moorish grounds bring forth some coarse grass, but it is fromspringsfrombelow;whenthehighmeadowsbringforthfinegrass,beingfed with the clouds from above. The hypocrite may bring forth somecoarse fruit, (asEgypt from the overflowing ofNilus,) from the earthlysprings,andtheoverflowingofanaturalconscience,whichwillbebynomeanspacifiedwhendutiesareomitted;buttheregeneratemanbringethforthbetterfruits:likeCanaan,heflowethwithmilkandhoney,beingfedwiththeshowersofheaven,andwateredwiththedewsofdivinegrace.

Thoumayestimitatetheactionsofagraciousman,yetbewithoutgrace;astheapeimitateththeactionsofreasonablemen,yetiswithoutreason;orasatragedianacteththepartofapassionateman,butisallthewhilewithout passion. Some men have wrought hard at duties, when anaturally enlightened conscience, notGod, hath been themaster to setthemonwork.Theywould,butcannot,neglectdutiesatsocheaparateasothers, ashe said,Sollicitornullos esseputareDeos—I could find in

myhearttofindtherewerenoGod,butcouldnot.Astheysayofthewolfinthebody,ifyoufeednotit,itwillfeedonyou.Soifconscience,whenitsmouthisopened,shouldnotbefedwithduty,itwouldfeedonthem;and therefore, to keep it from gnawing them, they stop itsmouthwithperformances,thoughtheyneverdothemfromarenewedprinciple.Donot,therefore,reader,hangtheweightofthysouluponsuchweakwires,since men do so ordinarily take the way of duties no otherwise thanAhaziah did the way of the garden-house, 2 Kings 9:27, merely fornecessity, to escape an enemy that followed him, wherein he was atlengthpursuedandslain.

Remigius,ajudgeofLorraine,tellethushowthedevilgavesomeinthosepartsmoneywhichat firstappeared tobegoodcoin;butbeing laidup,andwhenneedwas,takenouttobespent,itprovedtobenothingbutdryleaves.Reader,Iwishitmaynotbeso,butitispossiblefortheetodriveagreattradeindutieswhilethoulivest,tohoardupagreatheapofthoseriches, and theymay seem to be current coin, good silver, to have theimageandstampoftheKingofheavenuponit;butwhenthoucomesttodie,thatthouarttospendit—forthenthyworkswillfollowthee,andGodwillgivetheeaccordingtothyworks—itmaythenprovebutdryleaves,ofnoworthorprofittothee.Thoughtheseunsoundbottomsholdoutwellenoughinafairsea,whentheyareputtonostress,yetstormyweatherwillquicklydiscovertheirrottenness.

Notafewtakeupdutiesbecausetheywereeducatedinsuchareligiousmanner,notfromanyrelishorsavourwhichtheyfindinthem;andtruly,itwill be an easymatter to part himandhisworkwhonever took anypleasureinit.

The stone for a timemay, against its nature, bemounted upward, butwhentheforceofthatimpressedvirtuewhichmoveditisspent,itwillfalldownward according to its nature. Partridges that are hatched under ahenmaywalkwithher,andanswerhercallforatime,butanontheyflyaway, and shew what they are. Reader, I write not these things todishearten thee from duties, which are the body of religion, but toquickentheetomindregeneration,whichisthesoulofit.

Sixthly,Thecommendationofothers,thoughtheyberealsaints,willnot

prove thee tobe ina stateof salvation.Theholiestman'sconfidenceoftheeisapitifulevidencethatthoushaltbehappy.Howmanyhavetherebeeninthecitywhomadeagreatnoise,werecriedupbytheirknowingjudiciousneighbourstobeveryrich,andtobeworththousands,whenona suddenwehaveheard of their breaking, andbeingworse, aswe say,thannought.Somany,evenbythemwhicharegodlyanddiscerning,maybe counted rich ingrace, rich towardsGod, andona sudden, eitherbysometemptation,orattheirdissolutions,theybreak,andGodtakesawayfromthemthat they seemed tohave.HowwasgoodDavidmistaken inAhithophel!Surelyhe thoughthimGod's favourite, otherwisehewouldneverhavemadehimhisfamiliarandbosomfriend:'Itwasthou,Oman,mine equal, my friend, and my acquaintance; we took sweet counseltogether,andwalkedtothehouseofGodincompany,'Ps.55:12–14.

HowwasSimonPeterdeceivedinSimonMagus,whobelieved,wonderedat the miracles which were wrought, and was baptized; butnotwithstandingthat,wasinthegallofbitterness,andbondofiniquity,Acts8:13,20.

HowwasholyPaulmistakeninDemas!'Luke,thebelovedphysician,andDemas, greet you,' Col. 4:14; there he ranks him with one that waseminentlyreligious;butPhilemon,ver.24,heputshimbeforeLuke,andcallshimhisfellow-labourer;yet2Tim.4:10,whichepistlewasthelastofall Paul's epistles, 'Demas hath forsaken me, having embraced thispresent world;' he turned, as some write, idol-priest; he followed thechasetillhemetwiththehoney,and,Jonathan-like,thenleftthepursuit.

HowmuchwerealltheholyapostlesdeceivedinJudas!IfPeter,astheirmouth, speaks of their faith, Judas is included: John 6:69, 'We believeand are sure that thou art Christ, the Son of the livingGod.'When hespeaks of their good works, Judas is not excepted: 'Behold we haveforsaken all, and followed thee,' Mat. 19:27. Further, when a traitor ismentioned,Judasisnotsuspected;hiscarriagewassofairthattheyweremorejealousoftheirownheartsthanofhim,Mat.26:22,andyethewasa traitor, a devil. Infallibility was never annexed to the godly man'schoice.

Dædalus made an image that moved itself by art, which made the

spectatorsbelievethatithadalivingprinciple;thehypocritemaywalksoexactly,performdutiessodevoutly, thatsaintsmay judgesuchmotionsto flow from a principle of spiritual life. Because men have the exactresemblance of Christians, therefore godly men, who are charitableabroadandcensoriousathome,judgethemtobetrueChristians.Nowinregard there may be a resemblance of a Christian in external actions,where there is not the essence of Christianity in internal sanctifiedaffections,thereforethey,thoughtheysinnot,yetsometimestheyerrintheirjudgments.

1Sam.16:6,7.WhenSamuelcametoJesse,beingsenttoanointaking,and seeth Eliab, a proper handsome person, he presently crieth out,'SurelytheLord'sanointedisbeforeme;'butmarkwhatGodsaith,'Looknotonhiscountenance,northeheightofhisstature,forIhaverejectedhim; forGod seeth not asman seeth; forman looketh on the outwardappearance,butGodlookethontheheart.'Sowhengodlymenseetheirneighbours lovely in their lives, civil in their practices, high in theirprofession, strict in performances, they, according to their duty, say,inwardlyatleast,surelytheLord'sanointedisbeforehim;thesearetheblessed of the Lord, anointed to the kingdom of heaven; but Godmayoften answer them, looknot on their profession or their performances,forIseetheirhearts,thattheyservenotme,butthemselvesofme.

WereadofZeuxis,thepainter,thathedrewgrapessotothelife,thathedeceived thebirds,whocame flying to them,andpeckingat themas ifthey had been real grapes. Certainly a gracelessmanmay have such acompleteformofgodliness,thatthosewhoaregraciouscannotbutjudgeittobeaccompaniedwiththepower,when,indeed,itisbutthepicture.WhentherewasafamineinSamaria,ascarcityofgoodfood,thefourthpartofacabofdove'sdung,whichmightbethequantityofapint,wassoldforfivepiecesofsilver,twelveshillingsandsixpenceofourmoney;observeatwhatahighratethatwhichwasnothingworthwasvaluedatina famine.Truly so, there is sucha scarcityof truegodliness, that godlymen, who exceedingly long for the advancement of Christ andChristianity inmen's hearts and houses, prize and encourage anythingthatcomethnearit,thatlookethlikeit,orhathanytendencytowardsit:'Butthatwhichishighlyesteemedofmenmaybeabominableinthesight

ofGod,'Luke16:15.

Reader, do not thou, as some tradesmen, live altogether on thy creditwithothers.Themostcunningtakersofmoneythatare,thoughtheytakenoticeofeverypiece,aresometimesdeceived,andtakebadmoney,suchaswillneverendurethetouchstone,forgoodcoin.Whatapoorcomfortwillitbetothee,whenthouarthungryandnaked,thatothersthinkandspeak that thou art fed and clothed! He that trades highly, and liveswhollyupontrust,seldomholdsoutlong;look,therefore,notsomuchatothers'commendation,butatthineownregeneration,forthatisitalonewhichaccompaniethsalvation.Itisafavourthatthoudostsowalkastohavegodlymen'sgoodword;butforallthatthoumayestbeastrangertothisregeneratingwork,andthen it isnot thewindof theirbreaths thatcanblowthysoultothehavenofbliss.

Seventhly,Thyconfidenceofthyowngoodestateisnoinfallibleevidence.Theworld,astheyaremistakeninrepentance,takingittobeonlyalittlesorrowforsin,thoughnoaversionfromit,ordetestationofit,bejoinedwith it;sotheyarealso inthenatureof faith,esteeming it toconsist inthestrengthofpersuasion,andthatwhoevercanbeconfidentthatChristdiedforhim,andthatheshallgotoheaven,dothbelieveuntosalvation;whereas thedifferencebetweenadeceivingandasaving faith,dothnotconsist,inthestrengthofpersuasion,butinthegroundofit.Mat.7:24–27,thetwobuildingsbeofequalheightandbeauty,thedifferencelayinthebottomandfoundation.Ahypocritemaysailtowardsheavenwithfullgale of confidence, nay, the strength of that wind doth overturn thevessel; forwere hemore dubious, hewould bemore anxious about hisrecovery,andsomorelikelytobesaved:'Thereis,'(saiththewiseman,)'thatmakethhimselfrich,yethathnothing,'Prov.13:7.Thatis,therearesomethatarefullofconfidence,richinassurance,thattheloveofGod,the blood of Christ, the undefiled inheritance are theirs,when, indeed,they have not one grain of grace, nor any true ground of their joy andpeace,butareverybeggars.TheapostlePaulspeakethofhimself,thathewasalivewithoutthelaw,Rom.7:9,eventhenwhenhewasliabletoitscurse and lash,hehadhigh thoughts ofhispresentholiness, andgreathopesofhisfuturehappiness.Hewasajollyfellow,cock-a-hoop,takinghimself to be somebody; hismotto was Omnia bene, all is well, when,

indeed, every thingwas ill, and therewas but a step between him andhell;hehadmuchfalsepeace,thoughhehadnotruepurity:'Hiswaywasrightinhisowneyes,buttheendwasthewayofdeath,'Prov.14:12.Hewasalivewithoutthelaw;hisignorancewasboththemotherandnurseofhisconfidence;justlikeablindman,encompassedaboutwithbloodyenemies,orinaplacefullofserpentsandpoisonouscreatures,yetthinkshimselfsafebecausehedothnotseethem.Orasamaninalethargy,hefeelsnopain,thoughhebeverynearthepangsofdeath.ChristtoldtheJews,YesayGod isyourFather,butyethavenotknownhim.So thesesay,GodistheirFather,Christistheirhusband,heaventheirhome,whentheyknowneither.

Aseverywickedman'sconscienceismorallyevil,andstainedwithsin,somanytimesitisnaturallyevil,thatitdothneithercheckhim,norjudgehimforhissin.Onemainworkofconscienceistogiveevidenceeitherforor against a man; now conscience may bear false witness against itsneighbour; thegodlyman, either through ignoranceormisinformation,notjudgingbyarightrule,ornotusingthatrulerightly.Andconsciencemaygiveinfalsetestimonyonthebehalfofungodlymen,eitherthroughitsblindness, sleepiness, security,or searedness.Conscience,bynature,dothflatterthesinner,Deut.29:29.Consciencemaybeseared,whenitisnotsettled,andasleepwhenthesinnerhathnotruerest.SomemenservetheirconsciencesasDaviddidUriah,makeitdrunkthattheymayberidof it; when it hath begun to storm, they speak to it by some carnaldiversions,asChristtotheroughsea,Peace,bestill;andif thenacalmensue, they are safe.While the devil, the strongman armed, keeps thehouse, all isquiet,Luke 11:12.Consciencehavingoftenwarned themoftheir sins andmisery, and being still resisted, at last growsweary, andresolveth to give them over to their own ways and woe. These menstronglypersuadethemselvesthatalliswell,andyetstoutlypersistinallthat is ill; but they fall from the high turret of presumption into thebottomlessgulfofperdition.

Theworstmenhavenotseldomthebestthoughtsofthemselves,bothastotheirpresentandfutureestates.HowconfidentwasthePhariseethathis condition was safe for the present, Luke 18:11, when he was in anestateofwrath;andwhatassurancehadthoseprophetsthattheyshould

beadmittedintoparadise,Mat.7:21–23.Howboldlydidtheybounceatthedoor,butentrancewasdenied;astheJewsofoldspakeperemptorily,'weshallneitherseeswordorfamine,'thoughGodhimselfhathforetoldboth, Jer. 5:12; somany now speak presumptuously, they shall neitherseelaw'scurse,norGod'swrath,deathnordamnation,whenGodhimselfhathensuredthemtoalltheirconditions: 'Theycry,Peace,peace,whensuddendesolationisreadytoseizeonthem,astravailonawomanwithchild;whichtheycannotescape,'1Thes.5:3.Themirthofthesemenwasneverusheredinbygodlymourning.Theirexpectationisraisedhigh,butitsfoundationisnotlaidlow.

NeroshutupthetempleofJanus,tanquamnulloresiduobello,asifnorelics of war remained, saith Suetonius, when at the same time theempirewasatcivilwarwithinitself.

Howordinary is it formenwhose consciences are past feeling, to bragthatGodandtheyaregoodfriends,notknowingwhentheyeverfellout,whenat thesame timehe isatwarwith them,walkscontrary to them,andispreparingforthemtheinstrumentsofeternaldeath.LikeAgag,totheveryhourofexecution, theyareconfidentofapardon,andgowiththeirheartsfullofhopesintotheveryplaceofdespair.Theydiewillingly,as they tell us, and their neighbours commend them, saying, they diedlike lambs,when rather like Solomon's ox,who goeth to the slaughter,theysodied,goingtothedenofroaringlions,andtheplaceofdragons:'Theyhadnobandsintheirdeaths,'whowereinbondagetothedevil,Ps.73:4.

Asamanthatisasleepuponthemastofaship,heisinagoldendream,and his thoughts upon large revenues, rich treasures, kingdoms anddiadems,whichhehathalready inhisownpossession;but in thatveryhour wherein he is solacing himself in his vain imaginations, a stormariseth,themanistumbledoffthemastanddrowned.Thusmanyhavegoldendreams,strongpresumptionsof theirsalvation,when,alas! theydobutbefoolthemselves,areallthewhileuponthebrinkofhell,andaretumbledintoitbeforetheyareaware.

Reader,looktothislikewise,thatthoubuildnotonsuchaweakbottom;forthismayhappenbothtotheprofanemenandtohypocrites.Itissaid

of Pygmalion that he drew a picture so lively that he deceived himself,andtakingthepictureforaperson,fellinlovewithhisownpicture.Itellthee thoumayest spin so fine a thread, andweave so curious aweb ofpainted cloth, feigned godliness, that thoumayest deceive thyself, andtakeittobefinelinen,therighteousnessofthesaints,andmayestthencegather that thy soul is safe,when in all thou dost thou art unsound. Ifconfidence or not doubting our estates will prove them out of danger,thentheignorant,stupid,searedsinners,mustcertainlybesaved;whichthe Scriptures flatly deny. Socrates, who lived according to his naturalconscience,diedwithmuchcalmnessandconfidence,speakingof thosewhoputhimtodeath,thattheymightkillhim,butcouldnothurthim;yetwaswithout theknowledgeofJesusChrist, inwhosenamealone issalvation.

Eighthly, To follow the light within thee, or to obey the dictates of anaturalconscience, isnosoundevidence forheaven.Amanmay followthelightwithinhimtothechambersofutterdarkness.TheJesuitintheQuakerwouldmake this the infallible testimonyofaman'suprightnessand sincerity, nay, he plucks Christ from his throne, and sets the lightwithin him in his room, making it more than a mark, even themeritoriouscauseofsalvation;but,reader,Ishallclearlyprovethatitisso far from being worthy of our affiance, that it is not somuch as anevidenceforheaven,becauseconscience,bynature,iscorruptedasmuchas the other faculties: 'Their minds and consciences,' saith the HolyGhost, 'aredefiled,'Titus1:15.Thenatureofconscienceisgood,buttheconscience of nature is evil. It savours not the things of God; it is notpurged with the blood of Christ; it is wholly blind in the matters ofChristianity;nay,itisarebelagainstGod.NowifIfollowablindguide,amIeverliketoenterinatthestraitgate?IsitrationalarguingthatIaminmyprince'sfavour,becauseIobeymycaptain,whenheisatraitor?

Idonotsaythatanaturalconsciencehathnogoodinit;butIamsureitisintheaccountofGodanevilconscience,opposingandresistinghim.

Likeanignisfatuus,aspureandperfectalightastheQuakersmakeit,itleadethmenoutofGod'shighwayintothosebogsandquagmireswhereinthey sink and perish. I question not but the heathens did follow theirpollutedconsciencesintheiridolatrouspractices.AndsureIamthatPaul

mightthankhiscorruptconscienceforpersecutingJesusChrist:'Iverilythought,'(saithhe,)'thatIoughttodomanythingscontrarytothenameof Christ,' Acts 26:9. Mark the words, they are full of weight. Paul'sconsciencetoldhimitwashisdutytosuppressChristianity.Wasnothisobediencetothecommandsofthisconscienceasadsignthathewastobe saved?Further,Christ tellethhisdisciples, John16:2, that theywhokilled them,should think theydidGodgoodservice.Observe,herewaspure light within men, that made them think that they did God thegreatest service in doing his church the greatest disservice! Tertulliantells us that Maximinian, the emperor, esteemed Christianorumsanguinemdiisgratissimamessevictimam:thebloodofChristianstobeanacceptablesacrificetothegods.Isanymansomadasnottothinkthatifsuchapilotsteer,theship,byansweringtoitsmotion,mustneedsbecastaway?

SaulwouldoutofconsciencehaveslaintheGibeonites,2Sam.21:2,andbroken the covenant which had been sworn to by the Israelites. Hisconsciencewasevil,andcouldnotspeakhisconditiontobegood;anevilconscience will call bitter sweet, darkness light, evil good. It will leaveplain precepts, and walk by extraordinary providences, Isa. 36:18–20;Jer. 50:7. It preferreth a strong impulsion of its own spirit before thatword which is the will of God's Spirit, Isa. 3:9, 10; it esteemeth asupposedrevelationabovethatScripturewhichisundoubtedlyofdivineinspiration, 2Pet. 1:19. It placethoftenmost of its religion inpenance,abstinence, and outward acts of mortification, in external signs ofhumility, will-worship, and neglecting the body, Col. 2:23, of many ofwhichGodmaysay,as to theJews: 'Whohath required these thingsatyourhands?'Isa.1:2.Itmakesmenkeepagreatstiraboutcuffs,ribbons,hatbands,asthePhariseesaboutpotsandcups,whentheirheartsarefullofprideandmalice,robbingevenChristofthegloryofourredemption,and hating Christians for not daring to join in their cursed opinion.Friend,willfollowingsuchaconsciencespeaktheetobeatrueChristian?

Conscience is indeed a rule, but regula regulata prius quam regulans:sucharuleasmustberuledbyGod'swordbeforeitcanbearightruleforour works. To the law and to the testimonies, if conscience speak notaccording to this word, it is because, thoughmuch pretended, no true

lightisinit.Scriptureisthecompassbywhichconsciencemustbenditscourse,orelseitwillneverlanditspassengersatthedesiredhaven.Itisnofartherlibertyofconscience,butlicentiousness,thanitisregulatedbytheScripture.Oneofficeofconscienceismagistraticalandlegislative,tocommandandgivelawstoman.Wereadoftheheathen,thatinregardoftheirconsciences,'theywerealawtothemselves,'Rom.2:14.Conscientiamille reges,mille leges.But thoughconsciencebeakingover theotherfaculties, yet it is a subject and subordinate toGod; and therefore as adeputy-lieutenant, it must command its inferiors, according to thedirectionswhichitreceivethfromitssuperior;otherwise,asakingwhichcommandsoutofhisdominions,itisnottobeobeyed.Godhathindeedgiven conscience a large commission, it is a deputy-deity in the littleworld,man. The government of the soul lieth for a great part upon itsshoulders.

Ithathanuniversalnegativevoice,nothingtobedonewithoutitsassent,Rom. 14:2, 23, but not anuniversal affirmative voice, to enjoinwhat itpleaseth;whenitisregulatedbyGod'slaw,then,andnottillthen,itcangovernwellourheartsandlives.

Bernard saith excellently, 'Wemust consult with conscience, as also toconsultwithScripture;theBibleisthebookoflife;accordingtothat,thebook of our consciencesmay be copied or corrected. Let us therefore,'saith he, 'compare our book with God's book, lest in the last day ourbooksbefoundfalseandfaulty,whentheycometobeexamined.'

Copies are no further valid and authentic than they agree with theoriginal; neither is conscience any further to be trusted than it accordswiththewordoftruth;itisanunder-officer,andthereforeifitwaiveitscommission,anduseitspoweragainstitsprince,itistobeinformed,notobeyed.The lawnaturalmustbehearkenedto,so faras itagreethwiththe law moral. It is the greatest idolatry in the world, saith Rev. MrRutherford,tomakethyselfthyidol,andasbadasthatPapacyatRome,tomakeapopeofthyownconscience.ThelightofScriptureisinfallible,butnotsothelightofnature;yethowordinaryisitformeninourdays,likethemenofShechem,Judges.9:36,49,toflyforsheltertothisholdofthe idol Berith, and to think themselves safe if they can say the lightwithinthem,(theymightmoretrulysaytheprinceofdarkness,)moveth

them to deny all ordinances, to call Christians devils and limbs ofantichrist, to set up a Christ within them, in opposition to thatrighteousnesswhichhewroughtwithoutthem;butasthatholdwasfiredover theShechemites'heads, and theyperished in it, so thesemenandtheirconsciences,iftheLorddonotturnthem,shallburntogether.

Thouseestnow,reader,thatmenmayfollowtheirnaturaljudgmentsintoeternal torments;donot therefore followconscienceblindfold,but firstsetthatwatchbythesundialofGod'sword,forthenonlyitwillgotrue,andaccordingtoitthoumayestwork.

Ninthly,Tojoinwiththisorthatparty,ortoholdthisorthatopinion,isno sure evidence of salvation; all the sign which some have of theirsincerity, is their schism and separation from the people of God andpublicordinances.They fancy, for indeed it isbuta fancy, that to leavethegoodoldwayprescribedbyChrist,andtravelledinbythesaintsinallages,andtotakeabywayoverhedgeandditch,foundoutbythemselves,orsomeotherswhosepersonstheyhaveinadmiration,isthenearestandsurest way to heaven. Howmany list themselves under the colours ofQuakers,orAnabaptists,orIndependents,orEpiscopal,orPresbyterians,fighting, in expressions at least, against all that are of a differentjudgment, and being confident of the goodness of their cause, think itimpossibleforthemthatareengagedinittomiscarry.Reader,ifthouartone of these, Imust tell thee, for all this thoumayest be unconverted;whateverthycauseoropinionbe,orwhoeverbetheheadofthypartyorfile-leader,ifregenerationbenotthybanner,andChristthycaptain,thoushalt without question be conquered, and as certainly die an eternaldeath,asthoulivestanaturallife.

CreedsdonotmakeChristians;norareopinions,be theyneversonew,signs of new affections. Rather contra; divisions and side-takings doratherspeakabrutishandgrazing,asNebuchadnezzar's,thanagraciousheart.HowmanypersonswerethereinthedaysofChrist,whodifferedfromothersintheirprinciples!Theveryscribesandphariseesdifferedinsomethings,theEssenesdifferedfromthemboth,theSadduceesfromallthree, the Herodians from all the former; yea, the difference amongstmanyof themwas sowide, that they couldnotmeet together indivineworship; now how weak had it been for either of these, from their

dividingfrommenonearth,tohaveinferredtheirdwellingwithGodinheaven?When,foraughtIknow,hemustgobeyondthemallthatwillbesaved,Mat.5:20.

Thoumayest be of that partywhich hath the greatest name for purity,andyetwhenthoudiest,notenterintopeace.Iwill,forthysake,supposethe opinionwhich thouholdest to be true and sound, and the party towhich thou joinest to be holy and solid, yet neither of these isregeneration. Alas! the new birth doth not consist in a sound head,thoughitbeamercyifthouholdestthepatternofwholesomewords,butinapurifiedheart;notinsidingwiththetruth,butinbeingsanctifiedbythetruth.

The five foolish virgins associated with the wise, and yet wereunregenerate and wicked. Judas kept company with Christ and hisapostles,andjoinedwiththeminactsofdevotion,andyetwasasonofperdition.Vermin crawl among roses, but arewithout their savour andsweetness.Spiders fastenonrichhangings,yetare fullofpoison.Drossand gold, smoke and fire, dregs and wine, chaff and corn, are joinedtogether,yetdoabundantlydiffer.

Thou mayest, like the mixed multitude, seem to turn thy back uponEgypt,andembarkinthesamebottomwiththetrueIsraelites,andyet,asthey,comeshortofCanaan.

Tenthly and lastly, Some seeming good affections do not necessarilyspeakaman'sgoodcondition.

Everyshiningstoneisnotadiamond,nor iseveryflashyaffectionfromregeneration.Somesaythereisnopreciousstonebuthathitscounterfeit.Ithinkthereishardlyanygracebuthathitsape.Iwillinstanceinsomefewaffectionswhichthoumayesthave,andyetmissheaven.

Thoumayestwonderattheexcellencyoftheword,andyetbeastrangertotheefficacyofit:Luke4:22,'Allbarehimwitness,andwonderedatthegraciouswordswhichproceededoutofhismouth.'Allwonderedat theSaviour, but all were not wounded for their sins. All wondered at hisgraciouswords, butmanywanted his graciouswork. Ezekiel's sermons

were to some of his hearers as lovely songs, and yet they continuedimpenitentintheirsins.Somepeoplenibbleatthebaitofthepreacher'soratory,whentheirsoulsarenevercaughtwiththehookandauthorityofScripture,Ezek.33:31,32.

Thoumayest be full of joy under theword, and yet be empty of grace.HerodheardJohngladly,Mark6:20;othersreceivedthewordwithjoy,Mat. 13:20.Do godlymen rejoice in theword ofGod?Ps. 119:110, 111.Trulysomayothers;theymayseemtowarmthemselvesatthesamefirewithsaints,todrinkthesameheart-cheeringwine,andyettheirwineisdrawn at several taps. The unregenerate man's joy floweth from acommongiftorillumination;theregenerateman'sjoyfromspecialgraceorsanctification: 'Thoumayestbeenlightened,andtaste thegoodwordof God, and the powers of the world to come,' Heb. 6:4, 5. Mark, anunsanctifiedmanmaytastethewordofGod,and,ascookstasteoftheirsauces,itpleaseththem,buttheyspitallout,letnothingdown,receivenonourishment from it. The truths of God, and thoughts of heaven, maypassthroughtheeaswaterthroughapipeoflead,leavingonlysomedewof flashy and washy joy, not soaking into thy heart, as water into theearth, and making thee soft and fruitful. As a poor man in a sleepsometimes thinks that he is highly promoted, sumptuously feasted,exceedinglyenriched,andohhowheisdelightedwithsuchimaginations!and indeedall that such thoughtsproduce is only some sudden joy,noalterationintheman,norresolutiontowalkanswerablytosuchdignity,forallisbutadream;sothoumayestthinksometimesoftheexcellencyofthemercieswhichGodhathpromised,ofthepureriversofpleasureswhich Christ hath purchased; and oh how mayest thou be taken withthem, imagining that they belong to thee! but all the effect which theyworkisonlysomeshortjoy,norealchange,orsettledpurposetocrucifytheflesh,despisetheworld,anddenyselfforthehopesofthem,forallisbutafancy.

Thyjoymaybeasayofthatwhichthouwiltnotbuy,asbeingloathtogoto the price, and a taste of that onwhich thou shalt nevermake a fullmeal.ThefullbargainmaynotbedrivenbetweenGodandthysoul,andthenthoucanstnottakethisjoyasanearnestorinpartofpayment.

Thoumayestsighandmournforthysins,andyetbeunacquaintedwith

godly sorrow. It is not seldom that men hang down their heads likebulrushes,whentheyarerootedinthemireofpollution.

Possibly under some sharp affliction thou mayest cry out of thycorruptions, as the pig squeaks under the knife. So did Pharaoh; asmetalsmeltinthefire,andhardenoutofit;butstillunregenerate,Exod.9.

AhabhumbledhimselfunderthethreateningofGod,but likea fox inatraphe lookedsadly,merely togetout; forat thesame timehewasanenemytoGod,andquicklyafterwentuptoRamothGileadindefianceofhim,1Kings21,22.

Itmaybethouhasthadsomepangofconviction,whichlikeaqualmhathcomeover thystomach,andmade theesicka littleatpresent,but thoudost,bythestrongwaterofsomecarnalcontentment,settleitagain;thebadhumoursofthylustswereonlystirred,notvomitedup.Judashadagreatgashinhissoul,andyetnotonedropofhisbadbloodletout.Hewastorturedattheheartbylegalattrition,butnotturnedintoholinessbyevangelicalcontrition;hisheartwasonlybatteredasleadbythehammer,notbettered,ormeltedbythefire,tobecastintoGod'smould,Mat.27.

Avesselofwineistroubledbybeingremoved,buttheleesremaining,itretaineth and quickly returneth to its former savour. Some smartingprovidence, or searchingordinance,may removeand trouble thee for atime,butthyunsanctifiedheartremaining,thouwiltreturntothyformersavour; likeMoab, thoumayestbe settledon thy lees, andnot emptiedfromvesseltovessel,thereforethytasteremaineth,andthysenseisnotchanged,Jer.48:11.

TherearetwowordsusedbytheHolyGhostforrepentanceμεταμελεία,Mat.27:3,andμετανοία,2Tim.2:25;theformersignifiethsorrowforafault committed, the latter after-wit, a change of the mind, or makingwiseforthefuture.Theformermaybeintheunregenerate;but,astheysayofCastorandPollux,iftheyaredividedtheyareominousandfatal;sosayIofthese, if lamentingsinspastbenot joinedwithloathing,andleavingsin for thetimetocome, it isnotrepentanceunto life.Somebytheir repentance think they get a new privilege to sin; as that Louis of

France,whowouldswear,andthenkisshiscrucifix;swearagain,andkissit again; and as thedrunkard giveshimself a vomit, and thenhe is thefitter and freer to fall to his cups again; thus some men's sorrow is amessagesenttoheaven,toentreatleavethattheymaysin;butthisisfarfromthesorrowwhichisnevertobesorrowedfor.

Thysorrowforsinmaybeforcedoutofthee,aswateroutofastill,bythefireofaffliction,notcomefreelyfromthee,aswateroutofaspring.Letthy conscience be judge, hadst thou not rather be at thy carnalmirth,than spiritualmourning?Many of the Jews couldmourn sadly in theirdistress, though they were not sanctified; now violent actions will notspeakthynaturalinclination.

Orthygriefmaybe likea land-flood,whichcannothold long; foradaythoumayestafflict thysoul, foraday thoumayesthangdownthyheadlike a bulrush, Isa. 58. A bulrush, whilst the wind bloweth, bendethdownward; but the wind ceasing it percheth up again.Whilst thou arttossedupanddownwiththeboisterousbillows,asonenotaccustomedtotheocean,thoumayestbeseasick,butwhenthouartofffromthewaters,thou art well again. The vessel of thy soul is always leaking, but thatpumpofsorrowisnotalwaysgoing.

Thoumayest,likethewomanofTekoah,feignthyselfamourner,2Sam.14:2,whenintruththouartnone.Thoudostnotdivetothebottomofthyheart,astheIndiansoftheseaforjewels,tofetchthencethypearlytears;thou criest not to God with thy heart when thou howlest on thy bed,Hosea7:14.Thywatersmaynotbedrawnfromthedeepwellofabrokenand contrite heart. Every sacrifice thou offerestmay be as Ephraim, 'asillydovewithoutanheart,'Hosea7:11.

Thoumayestfearsin,andyetsinmaybethyfavourite.Thevengeanceinsin'stailmaybefrightfultothee,whenthevenominitsbodyandnatureisnotatalldistastefultothee.Liketheburntchildthoumayestdreadthefireof sin,notbecause it sootsandblacks thee,butbecause it scorchesandburnsthee.

There is somuch light left still inman'sunderstanding,which is calledthecandleoftheLord,thathecannotbutseeaGod,andthisGodclothed

withwrathandjudgmentsagainstsinandsinners;andthencehe,thoughunconverted,maysometimesbefulloffearandhorror.Caligulausedallthearthecould toblowout this light,and fortifiedhimselfwithall thearguments he could get against a deity, but could not accomplish hisends;forasoftenasitthunderedhewasmiserablyaffrighted,andwouldrununderabed.Soweread thatFelix,aheathen, trembledwhenPaulreasonedofjudgmenttocome,Acts24:25.Sininitsdoomsdaydress,asitisclothedwithfireandfury,maybeterribleeventotheungodly.Andthe consideration of thismaymake them leavemany sins, that do notloatheanysin.Themariner throwethoverboardthosegoods inastormwhichhewishethfor,and,itmaybe,gatherethupinacalm.Asamaninafeverlovethdrink,yea,longethmuchforit,yetdaresnotmeddlewithit, because it will make him worse. 'The sinners in Zion (saith theprophet) are afraid; fearfulness hath taken hold on hypocrites.' Why,what is the matter? 'Who can dwell in everlasting burnings? who canabide devouring flames?' Isa. 33:14. Mark, it is not, Who ever abusedsuchanoceanoflove?whoeverdespisedsuchamatchlesslife?whoeverprovoked such a gracious Lord? but 'who can dwell in everlastingburnings?' The sting of sin to the unregenerate is punishment, and thestingofpunishmenttotheregenerateissin,Exod.9:28;Hosea14:1.Tofearsin,asitbringethaheavyrod,usuallyproceedsfromnature;buttofear sin, as it is a wandering from a holy rule, can proceed only fromgrace.

TrulyasPhaltielpartedwithhiswifeMichal,whomSaulhadinjuriouslytaken fromDavid and given unto him, so unregeneratemen part withtheirsins.WhenDavidcametothecrown,hesendethforMichal.Phaltieldaresnotdisobey the king, buthebringsher onherwayweeping, andbemoaning his loss; he looks after her as far as Bahurim;many a sadthoughthehadforherwhenshewasbyforcedivorcedfromhim.

Thus unregenerate men leave their lusts when they are afraid to keepthem, but many a longing heart they have after them, and are not bychoice, but constraint, separated from them.As parents, they go to thefuneral of those children of their corrupt hearts with no small sorrow.Sickly persons forbear some meats, which they loved dearly, becausethose meats do not love them; they either feed their diseases, or are

hardlydigested.Somesinnersdarenotfeedintheiractionsonsomesins,whichareassweet to theiraffectionsas thehoneyand thehoneycomb,becausetheyfearthattheywillriseintheirstomachs,andthereckoningwillbetooheavyforthemtopay.

Or possibly thou art entering upon some solemn act of devotion, anduponthataccountatpresentforbearestthycorruptions;assomewriteofserpents,theylaybytheirpoisonwhentheygotodrink,andafterwardstake it upagain.Thoumayest, likeAbraham tohis servant, bid thy sinstaybelow,while thou goestup to themount toworship,Gen. 22, andwhenthedutyisdonereturntoitagain.

Reader, do not rely upon these affections, which thou seestmay be inthem which are not regenerated: for as the sorcerers seemed to do asmuchasMoses,butdidnothinginreality,sothoumayestseemtodoasmuchasaChristian,whenall isbutcounterfeit.Thy fearofsinmaybeforced, not flow freely from thee: 'Fearfulness hath taken hold on thehypocrites,' Isa. 33:14, as a serjeant takes hold on a bad debtor, or anarmedman on a coward, beingmore bold thanwelcome. Thoumayestfearsin,astheMedesandPersianstheJews,whenthefearoftheJewsfelluponthem,Esther8:17,whenthepresenceofthisfearis,asChrist'spresenceistothedevils,atormenttothee,Mat.8:29.

Nay,thyfearmaybeonlyforafit,likeamushroomwhichgrowethupina night and perisheth the next day. The people, when they sawAmasaweltering in his blood in the way, stood still; but he being quicklyremoved, theywenton.Whenthouthinkestofothersweltering in theirsoul-blood in hell, or seest the judgments of God upon others, thoumayest be afraid and stand still a little at present; but these thoughtsbeingsoonremoved,thoumayestgooninthewayofthineownheart.

It is reportedofCassander thathe trembled at the sight ofAlexander'sstatuewhenAlexanderwasdead,andCassanderhadgottenpossessionofMacedonia.Theregenerateman,whenheseethwiththeeyeoffaiththecurse of the law, the wrath of God, the torments of hell, his fleshtremblethforfearofthem,andheisafraidofGod'srighteousjudgments,though they are all dead tohim,hebeingnotunder the lawbutundergrace;but itmaybe it is the life in them,and theirpower tohurt thee,

whichmakestheeafraidofthem.

Friend, in all thesepassions thoumayestbut, like a stage-player in therobes of a prince, act the part of a Christian, and therefore canst notthenceconcludethyrighttotherevenuesofhisplace.Thewholelifeofaman unregenerate is but an interlude. Regeneration alone canmake amanliveingoodearnest.

Reader,ifthouartacivilperson,agreatprofessor,enjoyesttheoutwardprivileges of the gospel, aboundest in duties and performances; if Godhathgiventheegiftsandparts;ifgodlymencommendthee,andthouartsometimes confident of thy own good condition; if thou walkestaccordingtothynaturallight,andjoinestwiththemthatfeartheLord;ifsomegoodaffections,likeaflashoflightning,onasuddensurprisethee;thoughmostofthesearegood,yetdonothenceconcludethyundoubtedrighttosalvation;forallthesemayconsistwithunregeneracy,andChristtelleth thee 'that except thou art born again, thou canst not see thekingdomofGod.'As thealchymist'sgoldappearethasgoodas the truegold,but itwillnot endure the seventh fire,nor comfort theheart as acordial—bothwhichthetruegoldwill;so,ifalltheseshouldmeetinthee,they wouldmake thee look like a saint; but, believe it, they will neverendurethefireofScripture,whichmustshortlytrytheewhetherthouarttruegoldorcounterfeit,norcomfortthysoulasacordialwhenphysiciansshallgiveoverthybody.

Thirdly,Ifwithoutregenerationnonecanattainsalvation,itinformethusofthedifficultyofsalvation,thatitisahardthingtogettoheaven.Itisnoeasymatter tobe regeneratedandmadeholy; and therefore it isnoeasymattertobeglorifiedandmadehappy.Wherethegateisstraititishardtogetin. 'Iftherighteousscarcelybesaved,whereshallthesinnerand ungodly appear?' 1 Pet. 4:18. The apostle there intendeth not theuncertainty,butthedifficultyofthesalvationofthegodly.Ifitbesohardfor them to be saved that have passed the pikes, shot the gulf, gonethroughthepangsofthenewbirth,andtravelledaconsiderablepartoftheirwayheavenward,howhardwill itbe for themwhoarenotyetsetout,thathavenottakenonestepinthewaytolife!

Thesleepyworld, indeed,dreamthatmenmaygotoheavenwithoutso

muchado;theylookuponcivilitytobesanctity,worldlysighstobegodlysorrow,notdoubtingtheirestatestobefaithinChrist;andiftheycanbutspare a little time, andnow and then, from theworld and the flesh, tomumble over a few night-petitions, they hope with the help of thesebladders toswimthroughtheoceanofdivine fury toheaven.Or if theycome short of these fig-leaves wherewith many of Adam's childrenendeavour,thoughinvain,tocovertheirnakedness,yetiftheyhavethewarningpieceofsicknessbeforethemurderingpieceofdeathbeshotoff,thattheycanbutcry,Lord,havemercyuponus,ortelltheirneighboursthattheyaresorryfortheirsins,orgetaministertopraywiththem,thenallmust bewell, and theymust as sure go,when they die, toGod andChrist,as they livedto the fleshandthedevil.Butstay, friends,a little,therearemorewordsthanonetothisspiritualbargainbetweenGodandyour souls; there is a work of regeneration to be done, or else ye areundone eternally; yemust be thoroughly and universally newmade, orelseyearemarredforever.

Christ would never have commandedmen to strive, as to an agony, toenterinatthestraitgate,Mat.7:13;toworkouttheirsalvationwithfearand trembling, Phil. 2:12; to labour for the food which endureth toeverlasting life, John 6:27, if it had been such an easy thing to havereached heaven. Things of such excellency are not obtained with suchfacility; pebbles lie common,butpearls arehardly comeby.Theymusttravelfar,digdeep,workhard,thatwillgetthegoldenmines.Thewaytohellliethdownhill;aweakbodymayrundownhill,butitishardtogouphilltomountZion.

Friend,Iwritenot thesethingstodiscourage—alas!Ineednot; there isnotastrawinthewaytoheavenbutthou,ifunconverted,stumblestatit,whenthoucanstleapoverblocksinthewaytohell—buttoawakentheeoutofthycarnalsecurity,andtoquickentheetoseriousnessandindustryabout that which is of such unspeakable concernment to thy soul. Ourfirstbirthsaremanytimesaccompaniedwithhardlabours,usheredinbysharp throesandbitterpangs;our secondbirthsarealwaysharder.Ohtheterrorsandhorrors,theconvictionsandconvulsions,thetremblingsof soul and lancings of conscience, the thunderings from the law, thelightningsfromhell-fire,withwhichoftenthisnewcreatureisborn!Itis

hardlabour,indeed,whichbringeththisbabeofgraceintotheworld.

IhavereadofMelanchthon,thatwhenhewasfirstconvertedhethoughtitalmostimpossibleforanymantowithstandtheevidenceandauthorityofthewordofGod;whereuponhetoldoneofhis friends, thatwhenhecametopreachhewouldmakeworkamongsouls;but,aftersomeyearsspent in that calling, being demanded what success of his labours, heanswered that old Adam was too strong for youngMelanchthon. Alas,friend,possibly thoumayest think that thouwilt turn toGodhereafter,and therebyprevent thy burning inhell for ever.Believe it, it is not soeasy to turn from sin toGod as thou imaginest. Conversion is anothermanner of thing, and more hard than most men think; thou couldstsoonercreateaworldthanmakethyselfanewcreature.Theresurrectionof thy body, if itwere dead in the grave,were an easierwork than theresurrectionofthysoultonewnessoflife.

As the birth of the natural, so the birth of the spiritualman requirethinfinitestrength. It isGod,not themidwife, that taketh thechildoutofthemother'swomb,Ps.22:9.ThehandofGodalonecanopenthatdoor,and let the little infant into theworld,Gen.29:31, otherwise thewombwouldbeitstomb.SothebirthofthenewmaniswhollyfromGod;andthepowerwherewithheeffectsitisbothmiraculousandalmighty.

Reader,ifthoudosttakeabriefviewwhatthingsarewroughtwhenanyone is newmade, and how little he doth contribute to them, nay, howopposite he is against them, thou mayest perceive that neitherregenerationnorsalvationareeasy.

ThymindmustbeenlightenedtoseebothsinandtheSaviour.Nowisiteasytoopentheeyeoftheblind?whocandoitbuthewhomAugustinecallethtotusoculus,alleye?WhenJesusgavesighttoonethatwasbornblind, the Jews themselves couldnotbut acknowledgehimaworkerofmiracles, John 9:6, 16. What then will the scattering the mists ofignorance and dispersing the clouds of darkness, which gather andthicken about our understandings by nature, speak the Sun ofrighteousness to be? Eph. 5:8. Thy heart also must be thoroughlyhumbled;stonemustbeturnedintoflesh.Andoh,itisnoteasytomeltsuchhardmetal,whenthyheartnaturally is likeclayhardenedbothby

thesunshineofmerciesandfireofjudgment,thatnochangeofweathercanmakethatstonetoweep,Ezek.36:26.

Besides, thestrongholdsofsinmustbecastdown;thyoldfriendsmustbe deserted and prosecuted with implacable hatred as irreconcilableenemies; those beloved lusts, which are at thy right hand, have such alarge room in thy heart, must be cut off and parted from thee. Thydilectumdelictum, theIsaacof thycorruption,which is thechildof thywarmestaffection,inwhichthouhasttakensuchgreatdelight,andfromwhichthouhastpromisedthyselfsuchlargereturnsofprofit,pleasure,orpreferment,must be laid on the altar, and have the sacrificing knife ofmortificationthrust intotheheartof it,anditsbloodpouredoutbeforetheLord.Man,isnotthisahardsaying!(astheyspakeinanothercase,)whocanhearit?ahardlesson,whocanlearnit?Thylustwillnot,likealamb,gosilently to theslaughter,but itwill roarandrage, fightstoutlyforitslifewithmanycarnalarguments,andevenrendthyheartwithitshideousoutcries.Whocantellthestrugglingofthisbeastbeforeitwillbebroughttotheblock?Divesandhisdishes,Balaamandhiswages,Achanandhiswedges,Herod andhisHerodias, the youngman andhis greatmeans,arenoteasilyseparated.Ohhowdifficultisittoweanthechildofdisobediencefromthosebreastswhichhehathsuckedsooftenandwithsomuch complacency, and to divorce them which, like man and wife,have been ravishedwith each other's love! Inworks of art it is hard tobuild, easy todestroy; inworksofnaturea treewhichhathbeenmanyyears growing may be cut down in an hour: but in works of sin it isotherwise;man'sweaknesscaneasilybuildthemup,butGod'spowercanonlythrowthemdown.

Pompey,whentheRomanssaidthatifCæsarcametoRometheysawnothowtheycouldresisthispower,toldthem,thatifhedidbutstampwithhis foot on any ground in Italy, he would bring men enough, bothfootmen and horsemen, to do it; butwhenCæsarwas comingwith hisarmy,Phaonius bidPompey stampwithhis feet, and fetch the soldierswhich he had promised. But all was in vain: Pompey found it moredifficult than he thought; for Cæsarmade him first flee, and then in afight totally routed him. The devil persuadesmen that theymay defertheirregenerationtilltheirdissolution,andthenitwillbeaneasymatter

to foil their spiritual foes; but, alas! they find it not so easy tomortifyearthly members and destroy the body of death, when their soul'sadversaries with united strength encounter them fiercely and conquerthemeternally.

Further,allthyearthlycomforts,whetherfriends,relations,name,estate,limbs,life,mustbelaidatthefeetofChrist,hatedforhissake,andpartedwith at his call and command, and that for the hope of such things asthouneversawest,norarteverliketoseewhilstthoulivest.Isnotthis,reader,ahardchapter,toforegoanestateinhandforsomethingonlyinhope,tothrowawaypresentpossessions,andfollowChristthouknowestnotwhither;toreceiveaninheritancethouknowestnotwhen?

Andasthysinsandthysoulmustbepartedasunder,sothySaviourandthysoulmustbejoinedtogether;faithmustfollowrepentance;thyownrighteousnessmustbeesteemedasdrossanddung;theweightofthysouland the burden of thy sins must be laid on the naked cross of JesusChrist.Now,fortheewhoartbynaturesoextremelyinlovewiththyself,toloathethyself;andforthee,notwithstandingthydiscouragementsfromthenumberandnatureofthysins,thethreateningsandcursesofthelaw,thewrathand righteousnessofGod, to clingabout, andhangupon theLordJesus, and resolve, thoughhekill thee, yet thouwilt trust inhim,surely this isnoteasy; theworkofGod in infusing justifying faith isasgreatasinfaithmiraculous.'ThisistheworkofGod,'saithChrist,'thatyebelieveinthenameofhimwhomhehathsent,'John6:29.TheworkofGod,notonlyinregardofitsexcellency,becausenoworkinmanismorepleasing to God than believing on his Son, but also in regard of itsdifficulty,becausenonebutaGodcanenableamantobelieve;thebirdcanassoonflyintheeggasthysoulmountupbyfaithtowardsheaventillthealmightyGodassistthee.

Further, all the commands of God must be heartily embraced, somewhereofareascontrarytofleshandbloodasfiretowater.Self,whichisthygreatidol,mustbedenied;theworld,withallitspompandpride,incomparisonofChrist,refused;principalitiesandpowersre-encounteredandfoiled;thineenemiesloved(andifkilled,itmustbewithkindness;)godlinessowned,thoughmuchdisgracedbyothers;truthfollowedclose,thoughit threatentodashoutthyteethwithitsheels;abuffetedChrist

with his naked cross preferred before weighty crowns; things whichreason cannot comprehend, believed, and which none ever obtained,laboured for.Friend,are theseeasy things?what thinkest thou?Add toall this the consideration not only of thy weakness and inability to dothese things, but also thywickedness and contrariety to them; thou artnot only deprived of good, but all over depraved with evil: 'Theimaginations and thoughts of thy heart are evil, only evil, and thatcontinually,'Gen.6:5. 'Thoudostresolvedlyandobstinatelyrefusegoodandchooseevil,'Eccles.8:11;Jer.44:16. 'Theheartsof thesonsofmenarefullysetinthemtodoevil,'Eccles.8:11.Observehowfullthattextis:manisresolvedtohavehisminion,his lust, thoughhehavewrath,anddeath,andhell into thebargain.As themotherofNero,being told thathersonwouldbeherdeathifeverhewereemperor,answered,Lethimkill me, so he may reign; so they say, let sin reign, though it kill us,thoughitdamnus.'Theheartofthesonsofmenisfullysetinthemtodoevil.'IfthouwertonlyemptyofGodandgrace,theworkweremoreeasy;butthouartanenemytograceandgodliness;thycarnalmind(whichisLadyReasonherself,thyhighestnaturalexcellency)is—notanenemy,forsuchaonemaybe reconciled,but in theabstract—enmityagainstGod.ThouhatestGod,Rom.1:30;hispeople,1John3:12;hisprecepts,Prov.1:25–29;hisSon,John15:25,andall forhissake.Thoufightestagainsthim daily, sinnest in defiance of him continually, entailest thy quarreluponthyposterity,carriestitwiththeeintotheotherworld,(ifthoudiestunregenerate,) and there art throwing thine envenomed darts ofblasphemy, and spitting thy poison against the Most High to eternity.Nowbethyownjudge;isiteasytocurethatpatientwhothusdesperatelyhatesbothphysicianandphysic?John3:5.

Waterindeed,saithone,maysomewhateasilybedammedup,butnoartnorlabourcanmakeitrunbackinitsownchannel.ItwasbyamiraclethattheriverofJordanwasdrivenback;anditisnolessthanamiraclethatthetideofsin,whichransostrong,shouldbeturned;thatthesinnerwhobeforewassailingtowardshell,andwantedneitherwindnortidetocarry him forward, should now alter his course, and tack about forheaven.This ishard; it isnotmore strange to see theearth flyupwardandfiremovedownwardthantoseeasinnerwalkcontrarytohisnaturein theways of grace and holiness. Now, reader, is not thatmanworse

than mad that either delayeth or dallieth about his conversion, uponsuppositionthathecandoiteasilyenoughhereafter,whenallthiswhichIhavewrittenmustbewroughtinregeneration,andwhenheisnotonlyemptyof,anenemyto,butevenenmityagainstitall?

Though thework of conversion, and therefore theway to salvation, bethus difficult to all, yet to some it is more difficult than to others. Inrespect of God indeed, quoad Deum, one is as easily converted asanother,forinfinitepowerandmercyknownodifference;butquoadnos,in respect of us, it is more hard to bring some towards holiness andheaventhanothers:wherethematterismostruggedanduntoward,itishardertobringittoagoodandcomelyform.Somepiecesoftimberaremoreknotty thanothers, and thereforenot soeasily squaredand fittedfor the spiritual temple and heavenly Jerusalem as others; all spiritualchildrenarenotbroughtforthwiththesamestrengthandlabour.

I shall mention three or four sorts of persons who are not so soon asotherspersuaded to realandunfeignedpiety;and trulymyend is, thattheymay be powerfully roused, and effectually renewed before they beeternallyruined.

First, The mere civil moral man. This man, Narcissus-like, doats onhimself, and thereby is hardly brought to deny himself. The more thetoothisfastenedtothegum,theharderit istopartthem;themoretheman,likeatree,isrootedintheearthofself,themoredifficulttostockhimup.Thecivilmanlooksonhimselfintheglassofscandaloussinners'lives, and findinghis face so clean and fair in comparison of theirs, hefalls extraordinarily in lovewith himself, whichmany times proves hisdestruction:he takeshiscivility for sanctity, thatwhich is less than theshadow for the substance; andwithout question, it is not easy tomakehim eager after godliness, when he is confident he hath it already. Aprofanepersonis(notseldom)soonerconvincedandconvertedthanthisconceitedcivilian;forthatmanwillsooneracknowledgehimselfsick,butthispatient,thoughsickuntodeath,looksonhimselfaswhole,andsotohavenoneedof aphysician. In this sense, I suppose, thewordsof ourLordarespoken,thatpublicansandharlotsgointothekingdomofGodbeforescribesandpharisees,Mat.21:31.

Asashipthatisundersail,thoughinacontrarycourse,issoonerbroughtabout,thanonethatliethagroundintheharbourcanbelaunchedforth;sohe that is inmotion, though ina sinfulconversation, isoftensoonerreducedthanhethatliethstillinthethoughtsofhisowncondition.AsIcan sooner overtake a child that runneth from me, than my shadow,which tarriethnighme; so it is easier to recover a gross offender, thanthisshadowofthecivilian;forthoughherunnotsofarfromgraceastheother, yet he will be sure to keep his distance. He useth his outwardunblameableness as a shield to fence off the power of godliness; heusually compareth himself with them that are very evil, as a cowardchoosing a weak adversary, and because he much excelleth them,therefore concludeth that he is very good. Reader, it is far from mythoughts to discourage civility, much less to encourage open impiety,though thewholewill of Godmust be taught, what use soever corrupthearts will make of it; but to make thee watchful, that thy outwardharmlessnessprovenotahindrancetoinwardholiness.

Secondly,Thehypocriteisonewhoiswithmoredifficultythanordinaryconverted.Hypocrisyislikeafistula,whichhathaverysmallorifice,butmanyturningsandwindingsinthebody,likeconeyburrows,sothatitisvery hardly discerned and cured; thisman seems to bewhat a saint isindeed;andbecauseheislikeagodlyman,performingthesameduties,and forbearing the same iniquities, as to theexternalpart, thereforehegathersthatheisoneindeed;butheembracethacloudinsteadofJuno;heappearethtobenearthekingdomofGod,butnevercarethtocomeatit;asaparallel line,hekeepsascantlingwith thewayofgodliness,butnevermeetethwithit.Thereissomeparticularexceptionwhichthismanhath taken against Christ and his ways, that though he may oftencheapen,yetheseldombuyeththepearlofprice;heescapesstormsandpiratesatsea,andmakesshipwreckinthehaven,wheredestructionisnoless sure, but much more miserable; he escapes the gross lusts ofpublicansandharlots,andyetisfurtherthanbothfrometernallife.

It is harder to convince this man of his sins than others. If I tell adrunkard, a swearer, or an adulterer of his transgressions, and thenecessity of conversion, this man's foul conversation is a forcibleconviction to him; yea, and his own conscience will possibly fly in his

face, take part with me, and give evidence against him; but if I tell ahypocrite of the necessity of sanctification, and pursue him with thepiecesofthelaw,hepresentlybetakeshimself,likethebeasts,tohisdenofduties,andthereinsheltershimself;nay,hisnaturalconsciencebeingfedandbribedwithafewperformances,maypleadforhim,atleastnotsayawordagainsthim.

Besides, when this man is convinced of his lost estate, it is harder tobreak this man's heart than another's; for his heart hath not only anatural hardness, but an extraordinary acquired hardness, such ahardnessasisacquiredbydutiesandordinances.Now,aswherethesunismostpowerful,therearethehardestmetals;sowherethesunshineofspiritual blessings is most plentifully enjoyed, and thus wretchedlyabused,therearethehardesthearts.Nosoftening likegospelsoftening,nohardeninglikegospelhardening.

Tell aman that never heard of the gospel, or very seldom, when he isconvincedofhissinsandmisery,of the loveofGod insendinghisonlySonintotheworldtodie,thatpoorsinnersmightnotperish;tellhimofthe infinite loveofChrist, ingivinghimselfa sacrifice forhis soul;howfreelyChristinviteshim,howfullyheprovidesforhim,howwillingheisto accept him, how welcome he will make him: oh how this mansometimes falls a-weeping, wringing his hands, and renting his heart,thateverheshouldabusesuchloveandmercy,refusesuchincomparablemerits,walkinthewholecourseofhisheartandlifeunworthyofsuchablessed,glorious,holy,andgraciousGod! thewordofGoddothwoundthismantothesoul;butsayall thisandmuchmoretoahypocrite,hisheart is like the rock, not at all moved. The promises of God do notcleanse him from pollutions; but they are as physic to which his bodyhathbeenmuchused,whichstirshimnotatall,norpurgethawayanyillhumours.Threateningsdonotworkwithhim,betheyneversodreadfuland terrible; as a smith's dog, being accustomed to it, he can sleepsecurely, though the sparks of the forge fly about him, nay, though theflamesofhellflashinhisface.

Reader, if thou shouldst be one of this sort, for the Lord's sake mindsoundnesswith speed; for hypocrisywill harden thineheart insensibly,andeverydaywidenthebreachbetwixtGodandthysoul.

Thirdly, The rich man. The man that is rich in this world, is hardlybrought tomind the riches of the otherworld; his heavy load of earthdothmuchhinderhiminhisjourneytoheaven;hisrichesclaspabouthisaffections,astheivyabouttheoak,suckingouttheheartofit,foritsownleavesandberries.Thisman takethupwithhispresentpossessions, incomparisonwhereof he disesteemeth the saints' reversions. As a vesselthatisexceedinglyladen,whenitmeetswithstormsandtempests,iswithmoredifficultykeptfromsinkingthanonewhichhathbutjustenoughtoballastit;soitismorehardtokeephimfromsinkingintohellthathathagreatestate,thanhimthathath,accordingtoAgur'swish,neitherpovertynorriches.Andthereasonis,because,thoughspiritualcomfortsrunlow,thisrichmaniscontented,inregardthathistemporalcomfortsrunfull-top.Hemakesup the absenceofChristwith thepresenceof creatures,when, itmay be, povertymight cause him, as the prodigal, to think ofreturningtohisFather'shouse,whereisspiritualplenty.

Quintus Aurelius, in the days of Sylla, had a fair grange, which layconvenientforsomegreatperson,whichcausedhimtobeputinamongthemthatweretobeputtodeath;butassoonashesawhisnameamongthosethatwereinthelist,hecriedout,MylandatAlbahathkilledme.

Somemen'slandshavecostthemtheirlives,andbeentheknifetocutthethroatoftheirbodies;butmanyaman'sgoldhathlosthimhisGod,andbeen the knife to cut the throat of his soul. Rich men, like pamperedhorses,are themostunruly, leapingover thehedgesofdivineprecepts,thehardlierkeptwithin theirboundsbecause full fed; theyoungman'ssilver lost him his precious soul; he went away from Christ sorrowful,becausehehadgreatpossessions;hadthemanbeenpoorforafewdays,hemighthavebeenrich forever;butalas,hiswealthhere, throughthewickednessofhisheart, causedhis everlastingwant;whereuponChristtellsus,'Howhardlyshallarichmanenterintothekingdomofheaven!Isayuntoyou,thatitiseasierforacameltogothroughtheeyeofaneedle,thanforarichmantoenterintothekingdomofheaven,'Mat.19:23,24.Heavenisastatelypalacewithanarrowportal,throughwhichthiscamelwith his thick bunch of clay can hardly get. It is observed amongstanglers,thatpickerelsarenoteasily,noroftencaught.Amanmaycatchahundred minums before he takes one pickerel; and the reason is, he

preyeth at pleasure on the lesser fish, and therefore seldom hath anystomachtobiteatthebait;soitfarethwithrichmen,theirstomachsaresocloyedwiththethingsofthisworld,thattheyhavenoappetitetothedaintiesoftheword,whenthepooraregospelized.Theycontentedlytakethat for their portion which God intended only for their pension, andmaketheirwealththeirthronetositdownuponwithdelight,whichGoddesignedfortheirfootstool,andthefaithfullaidattheapostles'feet.

In some fenny places in England, it is storied, where they are muchtroubled with gnats, the people hang up dung, to which when they flytheyarecaughtwithanetprovided there for thatpurpose; thedungofprofitisthedevil'sbait,withwhichhecatchethmanypersons.Wellmayitbecalledthe'mammonofunrighteousness,'foritbothprompteththemto many sins, as well as pierceth them through with many sorrows.Gregory saith, that sitting in the see of Rome when it flourished, hetrembled every timehe thought on that text, 'Son, remember that thouhadstthygoodthingsinthylifetime,'lesthisoutwardplentyshouldbeallhisportion.

If,reader,thouartwealthy,bewatchfuloverthyheart,lest,likebirdlime,it hinder thewings of thy soul frommounting up to heaven.What theEgyptians said of the Israelites, 'They are entangled in the land, thewildernesshathshut themin,'Exod.14:3,may fitlybeapplied tomanymen that arewealthy. They are entangled in theworld, thiswildernesshathshutthemin.LikeLot'swife,theysetoutfortheZoarofheaven,buttheirheartshankeraftertheSodomofearth,andsotheylookbackandperishintheway.Ah,itisrareindeedtobeveryrichandtrulyreligious.Suchmenareoftentakenoutoftheworldbeforetheworldbetakenoutofthem.

Becareful,Ofriend,iftheLordhathdealtbountifullywiththeeinearthlyenjoyments, that they prove not heavenly impediments; that hismindfulnessof thybodydonotmakethee forgetfulof thysoul; lest thywealth,likeAchan'swedgeofgold,cleavethysoulinsunder.

Fourthly, The old sinner is not easily converted, but, like an oldmaidwhenmarried,hathharderlabourthanordinary.Thelongerthegroundofman'sheartliethfallow,bringingforthnothingbutweeds,unploughed

upbyrepentance, theharder itgroweth,andwith themoredifficulty isbroken up. It was hard to cast out the devil who had for a long timepossessedtheman;theapostlescouldnotdoit,andwhenChristhimselfdidit,itwasnotwithoutmuchrentingandraging,Mark9:21,26.

Common experience telleth us that a ship, the longer it leaketh, theharderitistobeemptied;ahouse,thelongeritgoethtoruin,theworsetorepair;anail, the farther it isdriven in, theharder togetout.Christraised two to life in theGospel (besidesothers.)Onewasamaidnewlydead,Luke8:54,towhomChristspakebutlittle:'Maid,Isayuntothee,arise;'andtheworkwasquicklydone.Theotherwasonewhohadbeendeadsolongtillhestank.Nowmarkwhatworktherewastoenlivenhim,John11:41:Christweepeth,groanethinspirit,prayethtohisFather,thenturnethtoLazarus,andcriethwithaloudvoice, 'Lazarus,comeforth.'Ionlyalludetoit.Whenthesinnerhathbeenbutfewyearsdeadinsin,alowvoiceofChristcanraisehimup,butwhenamanhathbeennotfourdays, but forty or fifty years rotting in the grave of corruption, that hestinksinthenostrilsofothers,itmustbealoudvoiceindeedwhichmustquickenhim.Howhard is it to turn theold swine, theolddrunkard totemperance,andtheoldgoat,theoldadulterer,tochastity!Thoughtheybesooldthattheirbodiescannotactthem,yettheirhellishheartsaffectthem.When they have nothing left but the dog-days of their age, theirbodiesfullofsores,yettheirsoulsarefullerofsins.

The longer the tree standeth in the ground, themore it roots, and thefaster it settleth itself; so that, though a child might some time haveremoved it, yet now all themen in the parish cannot pluck it up: Jer.13:23,'CantheEthiopianchangehisskin,ortheleopardhisspots?thenmayyealsodogoodthatareaccustomedtodoevil.'

Custominsintakesawayallconscienceofsin,andhardeneththeheartmoreagainstGodandgodliness.Asayouth,whenhefirstcomethtobeapprentice to some handicraft trade, his hand is very tender, and nosooner is it set to work but it blisters and puts him to pain; but hecontinuing long at the trade, his hand hardens, and he can follow hiswork,notonlywithoutpain,butwithmuchpleasure:sowhenamanisayoungsinner,conscienceistender,likeaqueasystomach,troubledmuchwith the least thing that offends it; but continuance in sin makes

conscience seared and brawny, that afterwards the sinner, like theostrich,candigest iron,andliketheTurkishslaves, feedonopium,andhis stomachnot at all recoil or complain. It is reported of theCretans,that when they cursed their enemies, they did not wish fire in theirhouses,noradaggerattheirhearts,butthatwhichwouldbringgreaterwoe,utmalaconsuetudinedelectentur,thattheymightdelightinanevilcustom;forcustomisnotanothernurture,butanothernature,andthatwhichisnaturalisnoteasilyreduced.

Somesaythereisnotransplantingtreesaftersevenyears'rooting.Iamsure it ishardtotransplantthemoutofastateofnature intoastateofgracewhohavebeenseventyyearsrootingintheearth.Oldservantswillnoteasilyleavetheirmasters;theywillmanytimeshavetheirearsboredandbeeverlastingslaves,ratherthanbemadefree.

Itiswitholdsinners,saithone,aswiththemwhohavelivedlongunderagovernment, they like to be as they are, though but ill, rather than tothinkofachange;or likethosewho ina journeyhavegoneoutof theirwayallday;suchwillrathertakeanewpathoverhedgeandditch,thanthinkofgoingsofarbacktobesetright.

Oldsinner,forthesakeofthysoulproceednofarther.Knowestthounotthat every step thou takest in thine unconverted state maketh thycondemnation more deep, thy condition more dangerous and thyconversionmoredifficult?Isitnothightimefortheetobegintoworkoutthy salvation, when the sun of thy life is setting? Ah, it is one of thesaddestspectaclesintheworld,tobeholdamanfullofsilverhoaryhairs,thatisvoidofagoldensanctifiedheart.Surelyofallmenalive,thouhastcausetoaboundinsorrow,whodosttothisdayabideinthysins.

CHAPTERVI

Ausebywayoftrial,whereinthecharacter

ofregeneratepersonsissetdown,withsomequickeningmotivestoexamination

The second use which I shallmake of this doctrine shall be by way ofexamination.Ifwithoutthesecondbirththoucanstnotescapetheseconddeath,norobtaineternallife,then,reader,trywhetherthouartnewbornorno;communewiththyheart,andseewhetherthisworkbedone,thatthoumayest know how thou shalt fare in the other world: 'Wherefore,brethren, give diligence tomake your calling and election sure,' 2 Pet.1:10.Thefirstfountainofourfelicityiselection;andthemanifestationofthis is our calling. By vocation God bringeth to pass in time what heappointedfrometernity.Asawordisanoutwardthought,andathoughtaninwardword,sovocationisoutwardelection,orelectionputintoactandmadevisible;andelection is inwardvocation,orGod's intentiontoconvertandsave.Electioniseternalcalling;callingisatemporalelection;so that by ensuring thy calling, thou ensurest thy election. Make thycalling sure; be not satisfied to let thy salvation hang in suspense, tofollowChristasthepeoplefollowedSaul,trembling,notknowinghowitshall fare with thee; but strive for full assurance, 'that an abundantentrancemaybeministereduntoyouintothekingdomofourLordandSaviourJesusChrist,'2Peter1:11.

Ihavereadofanoldwickedusurer,whohadnothinginhismouthbut,Itisgoodtobesure.Ifhisservantwenttoreceivemoney,hewouldfollowafter him, and being asked the reason, would answer, It is good to besure.Ifhehadtoldhismoneyonce,hewoulddoitasecond,yea,athirdtime,saying,Itisgoodtobesure.Ifhelockedhisdoorhimself,hewouldariseoutofhisbedtofeelitlocked,stillpleadingforhisreason,Itisgoodtobesure.Itcametopassthatthismanfelldesperatelysick.Hisservantcalleth tohim—desirous tomakehimsensibleofhissins—Master,haveyou been at prayers? Yea, John, saith he. Sir, said the servant, go toprayersagain;youknow it isgood tobesure.That ismore thanneeds,saiththeusurer;Iamsureenoughof that.Trulythisman'sheart is theresemblanceofmostmen.Theyareallforsecurityinbargains,sales,andpurchases.If theybuyaninheritanceonearth,howsurewill theymakeit!Thetenureshallbeasstrongasthebrawnofthelaw,orthebrainsof

lawyers, can devise. What bonds, deeds, fines, recoveries, leases,evidences,and, if anyscruple, collateral security,are there toensure it!But, alas! who ensures the inheritance above? How few are there thattake any pains to secure their right to those ever-living pleasures! LikeJacob,thoughinanothersense,menputtheirrighthandofcare,caution,anddiligenceupontheyoungerson,thebody,andtheirlefthandontheelder,thesoul.Howfewmaketheircallingandelectionsure!

But, reader, if thou would make sure thy predestination and fore-appointment toglory, itmustbedonebymakingsure thy regenerationandtranslationintoastateofgrace.Thoucanstnotascendintoheaven,and see thy name written in the Lamb's book of life, but thoumayestdescendintothineownheart,andseeitbytheseedsandprinciplesofaspirituallife;asifanymanwouldknowwhetherthesunshinethorno,heneedbutlookonthegroundandseethereflectionofitsbeams,andnoton the body of the sun, which will but the more dazzle his eyes. Thepatternisknownbythepicture,thecausebytheeffect,theoriginalbythecopy, electionby regeneration.The soul that is conformed toGod's lawmayknowthathe isenrolled inGod's list. If IhavechosenGod, ImaysafelyconcludethatGodhathchosenme.

The historian reporteth how a senator, relating to his son the greathonoursdecreedtoanumberofsoldierswhosenameswerewritteninabook, the sonwas importunate to see thebook.The father shewedhimtheoutside.Itseemedsogloriousthatthesondesiredhimtoopenit.Bynomeans,saiththefather;itissealedbythecouncil.Thensaiththeson,Tellmeifmynamebethere.Thefathersaith,Thenamesaresecrettothesenate.Theson,studyinghowhemightgetsomesatisfaction,desiredhisfathertodeclarethemeritsof those inscribedsoldiers,whichthefatherdoing, and the son consulting with his own heart, found himself to benoneofthem.Reader,thoughthebookoflife,whichincludeththenamesofthosewhoseheadsaredestinedtogloriousdiademsbesecret,yetthedesertsofthoseinscribedthereareopen;theyareasachosengeneration,a peculiar people, so also a holy nation, a royal priesthood, a calledcompany,asanctifiedsociety,aregeneratedremnant;theyareculledoutof theworld, called by theword, separated for the service of the Lord;theyarebornoftheSpirit,broughtupintheSpirit,andtheywalkafter

theSpirit.ThetaskthereforewhichInowsetthee,istotrywhetherthouartoneofthese—whetherthouartbornagain,withoutwhichthoucanstnotseethekingdomofGod.

Now,thoughthecommandmentofGodbeargumentandreasonenoughtoaChristianwhyheshouldexaminehimselfwhetherhebeinthefaithorno,2Cor.13:5—foratruesubjectdaresnotdenyanycoinwhichhaththeimageandstampofhissovereignuponit—yetIshallgivetheetwoorthreethoughtstostirtheeuptothetrialofthyself.

First,Consider that thyallhangson thishingeof regeneration.All thatthou art worth for thine unchangeable estate in the other worlddependeth on this; this is the foundation of that hope, that buildingwhich reacheth to heaven.Now it is dangerous to err in fundamentals;the stability of the buildingdepends on the strength of the foundation.For aman to goout ofhisway at the first settingout is saddest of all.RegenerationisthebeginningofChristianityinthee;nay,thyinterestinalltheunsearchablerichesinChriststandethonthis:ifregenerated,thenthy sins are pardoned, thy person accepted, God is thy Father, JesusChrist thyhusband andSaviour, the Spirit thy comforter, the promisesare thyportion,heaven thyhome;but if thouartnot adornedwith thepiousfruitsofChrist'sSpirit,thouartnotinterestedinthepreciousfruitsofhismerits;thereforemakesurehere.Godwilldealwiththeetoeternityaccordingtothyhavingorwantingthis.Nowdothitnotconcerntheetobeware of cozening thyself here,when amistake in thiswillmake theemiserable for ever? If ever any tresses had need be strong, then surelythey which draw such a weight as thine endless welfare. Where menintendtodwelllong,theybuildstrong.Soldiersusetentswhichhavenofoundation,because they intendbut a short stay in them.Thou lookestforacitywhichhathafoundation.Friend,haththyexpectationofitanyfoundation?Wouldstthoubuildslightlyforadwellingofeternity?Zeuxisbeing asked why he was so exact in painting, answered, because hepainted for eternity. Lines which concern eternity had need be exactlydrawn; and deeds and marks, and all things indeed which concerneternity, hadneed to be exquisitely done. If amerchant venture all hisestateinonevessel,andwherethereismuchhazardinthevoyage,howfulloffearandcarewillhebelesttheshipshouldmiscarry,himselfand

hisfamilyberuined!Manyasadthoughtwillhehaveinthedayassoursaucetohisfood,andpossiblymanyanachingheartinthenighttokeephimwaking.Heisevenliketobebesidehimself,somuchisheperplexed;andaskhimthereason,hewilltellyou,IthinkIhavecause.AllthatIamworthisventuredinthatbottom:shoulditbelostandperish,wearealllost;mywife, self, and childrenmust all perish. Thus theman lives inlittle easebothdayandnight, till at lasthe considerethwithhimselfofwhat concernment the safety of that vessel is tohim;he resolveth, andaccordingly goeth to the insurer's office and insureth his whole estate,andthenheissatisfied;thosefearswhich,likeweights,hungontheclockofhisheart,andwouldnotsufferittorest,arenowtakenoff,andheeatshisbreadwithcheerfulness,anddrinkshiswinewithamerryheart;hecaninallconditionsbecontented,becausehisallisinsured.

Thus,reader,regenerationisthevesselinwhichallthatthouartworth,not for this present perishing, but for the other everlasting world, isventured;ifthatbesound,thineendlesswelfareissafe;ifthatbefeignedandlame,thouartlostforever.Howcanstthoutakeanycomfortintheabundanceoffadingcreatureswhilstthyall,thineeternity,isindanger?Ohgototheinsuringoffice,bringthyriches,thysilver,tothebalanceofthesanctuary,andtherebytrywhetherithathitsfullweight!

Man, what sayest thou to this reason for self-examination? Is it not ofunspeakable weight? and I shall shew thee that it is of unquestionabletruth.DothnotthelivingGodtellthee,thatexceptthouartbornagain,thoushaltnotseehiskingdom?Dothhenotsayexpressly thatwithoutaredogs?Rev.22:15.TheFather'shouseisonlyforchildren;dogsmustbewithoutdoors.Pharaoh's courtadmittedof vermin,but I canassureyou that God's will not: 'Into it can in no wise enter anything that isdefiled or unclean,' Rev. 21:27. Impure persons can never get into themostholyplace.Heavenmustbeintheebeforethoucanstbeinheaven.Itwasagoodinscriptionwhichabadmanwroteonthedoorofhishouse,Permenihil intretmali: Let no evil pass throughme.Whereupon saidDiogenes,Quomodoingredieturdominus?Howthenshallthemastergetintohisownhouse?That inscriptionwithoutquestionagreethwith thecelestialhabitation.Thereisnothingtherebutwhatisholy:theFatherisholy, John 17:11; theholy child Jesus,Acts 14:27; theHolyGhost,Acts

21:11;thecreaturesthereareholy,theholyangels,Mark8:38;thesaints,orholymenandwomen,Heb.12:23;theworkandeternalemploymentthere is holiness; the servantswait on theirmasterwithout sinning, aswell as without ceasing; the song there is 'Holy, holy, holy, Lord GodAlmighty,' Rev. 4:8; canst thou therefore think without holiness to getthither?

Secondly,ConsiderthatGodwilltrythee.Heknowethnowwhatthouart,whetherdrossorgold,andhewillshortlybringtheetothefire,andmakethee known both to thyself and others. Though the waters of thycorruptionsmay run for a time under ground, and be hidden from theeyesofmen,yettheywillatlengthappear.ThouartatpresentallcrystaltoGod;heneedethnot,asMomuswouldhave,awindowintothybreast,for he seeth thee thoroughly; he seeth thy inwardsmore perfectly thanthouandothers can see thyoutwardparts. 'The finingpot is for silver,and the furnace for gold, but the Lord trieth the heart,' Prov. 17:3.Hehathathreadwhichleadethhimunerringlythroughthelabyrinthofthyheart.Heneedethnoseriousinquisitionaboutthee,forheknoweththeeby immediate intuition. He walks through the road of thy heart everyhour;thereforeitconcerneththeenottobalkit.

Hewilltrytheeprobablyinlife,butcertainlyatdeathandjudgment;andshouldst not thou then try thyself? God may try thee in thy life byprosperity; he may give thee strong meat, and thereby examine thystomachwhether it be goodor bad; hemay let theworld flow inupontheetotryhowthyaffectionswillflowoutuponit;believeit,richwineswill try thy brains. It is said of Pius Quintus (so called, because) thatwhenhewasameanmanhewas lookeduponasagoodman,andhadgreathopesofhisownsalvation;butwhenhecametobeacardinalhedoubtedmuchaboutit,andwhenhewasapopehealtogetherdespairedof it; thus the place doth often discover the person. Hot waters willmanifestwhethertherebelifeinamanorno;andafullgreatwindwilltrywhetherthevesselofthysoulbeballastedwithgraceorno.Itissaidof Caius Caligula there was never better servant nor worse master.Poisonous and profitable roots are both discovered in summer, thoughthey were hid all the winter. That corruption which lay in the bodyundiscerned,whentheseasonwascold,breaksouteither inthefaceby

pimples,orintheotherpartsbysomedisease,whentheweatheriswarm.But it is more likely that God will try thee by adversity. God tellethJerusalemthathewouldsearchherwithcandles,Zeph.1:12; that is,asexactlyasmensearchwithcandles,pryingintoeverycornerofthehouse:so God of the heart, bringing forth their secret ways, revealing theirhiddenwickedness.Thewordsimplyboththemanner,howexactlyGodwoulddoit,andthemeans,howterriblyhewoulddoitbysomedreadfuljudgment;hewouldkindleafire,andsearchthembythelightofthatfire.Reader,ifthouwiltnotsearchthysoulbythesunlightofhisword,expectthatheshouldsearchtheebythecandlelight,thefirelight,ofhisdreadfulworks.Theflailoftribulationwilldiscoverthechafffromthewheat;andthe fire of affliction, the dross from the gold. Sharp weather will trywhetherthybodybesoundorsickly.Astormwilldiscoverthemariner,andabattlethesoldier.GodledIsraelaboutinthewildernesstotryandto prove them, Deut. 8:16. Affliction is like Solomon's sword, thatdiscoverethwhich is the true,which the falsemother; or like Simeon'ssword, which pierceth throughmen's souls, that the thoughts ofmanyheartsmayberevealed.

Now,friend,ifGodwilltrytheebysomesharpaffliction,isitnotbetterto prevent this by self-examination? It may be, God may try thee bydisgrace,or lossof thywholeestate,orby lossof liberty, limbs,or life;now how wilt thou do to bid adieu to all earthly comforts for JesusChrist?towelcomeaprison,kissastake,smileattorments,lookaviolentdeath in the facewithcolour in thycheeksandcourage in thyheart, toendurethisfierytrialbyGod,thatdidstnevertrythyselfbeforehand?'Ifthouhastrunwithfootmen,andtheyweariedthee,howwiltthoudotorunwithhorsemen?'Jer.12:5.Ifself-trialinthychamberorcloset(wherearenonebutGodandthyconsciencetobewitnesses,andScripturetobejudgeofthecontroversy)besoirksomeandgrievoustothee,howtediouswillthytrialbebyflamesandtorments!Believeit,whenthoucomesttothe fire it will be known whether thou art a full or an empty pitcher.BlessedBilneytriedhisfingerbyhimselfinthecandle,beforehiswholebody inthe flamesat thestake. 'Ogatheryourselves together,'saiththeprophet,Zeph.2:1—'Gatheryourselvestogether,beforethedecreebringforth,beforethedaypassasthechaff,beforethefierceangeroftheLordcome upon you.' Tremellius reads it, Excutite vos, verumque excutite.

Examine, unskin yourselves, rip yourselves up, dissect, anatomise yourentrails;itisdoubled,toshewthefervencyandearnestnessofGodforit,thenecessityandweightofit,andman'santipathyandaversenesstoit:before thedecreebring forth,&c.,before the judgmentwhich isnow inthe womb of the threatening come to the birth of execution. O friend,search thyself faithfully, or be confident that God will search theedreadfully.Now,asJobtoldhisfriends,'IsitgoodthatGodshouldsearchtheeout?' Job 13:9. Is it good thathe should, as a surgeon, eatout thydead senseless flesh by some stinging corrosive, and cure thee of thylethargy by putting thee into a violent fever? The scholar that will notscanhisownverses,andtrythembytherule, findsthathismastercanmakehimdoitundertherod.IfGodhavethoughtsofeverlastingfavourtowards thee, he will force thee to know and try thyself by someseasonablefire;hewillsoshakethetreethat itshallbeknownwhetherthefruitberottenorsound.

IfGodshouldnottryanddiscovertheetothyselfinthisworld,yethewillcertainly in the other world, at the night of death, and in the day ofjudgment:deathwilltrythee,thatwillbestrongphysic,whichwillfullydiscoverthyconstitution.Twoormorechildrenplaytogetherallday;butwhennightcomes,onechildgoethtohis father, theother tohis father,everyone tohis own father; itmaybe theywere likeone another, thatstrangersknewnot,yea,norneighbours,towhomtheybelonged,whosechildwasthis,orwhosechild is that;butwhennightcomes,onefatherownshis child, takeshimhome; theother father callshis child tohim,takes him into his house. Thus while men live they are not so welldiscovered,whethertheyareofGod,oroftheirfatherthedevil;butwhenthenightofdeathcomes,theyaretriedtowhomtheybelong:hethatisbornofGodgoethtohisFather'shouse;hethatisofhisfatherthedevil,goeth,withJudas,tohisownplace.Rotteneststuffsareoftenestwatered,thedeformedest faces areusually painted, but the shower of deathwillwipeandwashalloff.

Now if thou wouldst be gathered to thy Father in peace, examine andprove thyself;makesure that therebesomegoodthing in thee towardstheLordthyGod.Ohhowsadwillitbeforthee,whoartnowasleep,toawake,likethejailer,atthemidnightofdeath,andtofindthyevidences

forthenewbirth,ashehisprisonersinhisownapprehension,missing!whatanearthquakeandheartquakewillthenpossessthee!howpaleandtremblingwilt thouspring intothepresenceofGod, intheotherworld,forthyparticularjudgment!Ah,howsadwillitbetoerr,tomistakethen,when an error cannever, never bemended!when amistakewill provesoul-murder,aneverlastingmiscarriage!Oh,itisbadforthevesselofthysoultoleak,tomistake,intheshallowwatersoflifeandtime;butohhowsadwill itbetobemistakenatanhourofdeath,andtherebyto leak intheoceanofeternity!Speed,inhisChronicles,observeth,thatinthedaysofHenryVIII.,Campius, thepope's legate, came through the streets ofLondonwithtwentymulesladen,toshewhispomp;butasthetriumphpassedthroughCheapside,thebeastsstumbled,braketheircollars,casttheir coffers, and then the lids flying open, discovered his riches to benothing but old shoes and boots, torn stockings, old iron, and tatteredrags.Itellthee,reader,thoughnowthoumayestbewonderedatforthyspiritualwealth,yetassoonasthoustumblestintotheotherworld,itwillbetried,itwillbeknown,whethertheyberealorimaginaryriches.

PaultoldhisCorinthians,1Cor.4:19,'Iwillcometoyoushortly,andwillknow,notthespeechofthemthatarepuffedup,butthepower:forthekingdomofGodisnotinword,butinpower.Whatwillye?shallIcometoyouwitharod,orinlove?'Ofriend,notPaul,butJesusChristhimselfwillcometotheebydeathshortly,andwillknow,notthyspeech,inbeingpuffedupwith a shadowofprofession, but thepower, and trywhetherthouhast the substanceof religion.Nowman,whatwilt thou? shall hecometo theewitha rod,or in love?shallhesendgoodangels toguardtheetoheaven,orevilangelstodragtheetohell?

WhenDavidwas going to encounterwithGoliath, he told Saul that hecouldnotgowiththearmourwhichSaulhadputonhim,becausehehadnotproved it, 1 Sam. 17:39; anddarest thou enter the list against a fargreaterenemy,evendeath,withthatarmourwhichwasneverproved?Beconfident,ifthoufightestwithoutarmourofproof,deathwillfoilthee.

Thedayofjudgmentwilltrythee;thennakedbreastswillbeinfashion,andGodwill rip thee open before theworld; nay, if thouwilt not nowexamine thyself to thy conversion, he will examine thee then to thyconfusion,whenthejudgeshallbeaconsumingfire,andthewholeworld

be ina flame,and thoube triedbya fiery law,Heb. 12:28; 1Pet.3:10;Deut. 33:2. It was a sharp kind of examination by which Paul wasexamined,Acts 22:14. The chief captain commanded that he should beexaminedby scourging. It is a sadkindof examinationbywhichmanycountriesexaminemalefactors,upontherack,puttingthemtoexquisitepains.

Reader,rememberthatifthoudostnotexaminethyselfatthisday,Godwillexaminetheeatthelastday,anditwillbeanexaminationupontherack,anexaminationwithscourging;itwillbeawordandawound;everyblow will fetch blood; every interrogation will be a stabbing, stinging,killing question.When Christ shall say to thee, Sinner, how didst thoudarethustocozenandundothysoul?whatmadnesspossessedtheethusto dally about matters of infinite and endless moment? Hadst thouexaminedthyselfaccordingtomyword,andfoundthyselflost,therehadthenbeensomehopesoflife;butItelltheenowitistoolate.Well,Iwillriptheeopenbeforeangelsandmen,andcausethyconscience,withitsgnawingwormandstinginggripes,toexaminetheeeternally.Thefireofhell shall try what metal thou art, that will prove thee to purpose. Ofriend, think of this seriously and speedily, for that day of Christ willdeclare thee;andalas,alas,whoshallabide thedayofhis trial,orwhoshallstandwhenheappeareth?forheislikerefiner'sfire,andasfuller'ssoap.All thingsarenakedandopentotheeyesofhimwithwhomthoushaltthenhavetodo.Ifthouartafraidtoventureatrialinthelowcourtof conscience, where his word shall be thy judge, with what fear andtremblingwiltthouappearathisbar,whenhethatsearcheththineheart,trieth thy reins, and will reward thee according to thy works, shall situponthebench?ThereforecastupthyaccountsbeforeGodandthysoul,whilstthereishopeofmakingalleven,lestthoudoassometradesmen,who neglect so long to cast up their books, till at last their books castthemup.

Thirdly,Consideritispossibletoknowwhetherthouartnewbornorno.I do not set thee to beat the air, or to work at the labour-in-vain. AChristian may be assured of his regeneration, and thereby of hissalvation.TheywhichhavethelawofGodwrittenintheirhearts,maybeabletoreadit.David,whenhisdeedsandevidenceswerenotblottedwith

hisfouloffences,coulddiscernthemclearly:'Thylawiswithinmyheart,'Ps. 40:8.When the sun ariseth he bringeth his natural lightwith him,whereby he is discovered to the world. A diamond set in a gold ringbringethsuchorientsparklingwith it, that itcausethmentodiscern it;truly,sotheSunofrighteousness,whenhearisethinthesoul,bringethaspirituallightalongwithhim,whichhelpeththenewcreaturetobeholdhim,andthediamondofgracecastethsuchasparklinglustreintheheartofaChristian,thatittherebybecomesvisible.

Regeneration makes a wonderful change and alteration; now greatalterationsofstatearenotwithoutobservation.Dothakingdomchangeitsgovernor,acruelarbitrarytyrant,thatfleecedthem,andslewthematpleasure, foramild,merciful,peaceableprince, thatruleththemwitharighteous sceptre, and not take notice of it? Can a creature change hismaster,sinandflesh,forChristandhisSpirit;hisworkofservingdiverslustsandpleasure,Tit.3:3,forservingtheLordwithsinglenessofheart,andnotobserve it?Whenthemanisnewmade,Christcometh intohisheartwithhisSpirit,graces,gospel.Greatguests,whentheycomeintoahouse,havemanyeyesuponthem;theKingofglorydothnotcomewithsuchatrainandretinueinsecret;thegradualchangefromgracetograceis not so visible; but a specifical change from nature to grace isundoubtedly sensible. When the ground, that before brought forthnothingbutweedsandthistles,comestobringforthwheat,anordinarypersonmayperceivethedifference,thoughhowthiswheatgrowethisnotsoperceptible.Everynewcreaturedothnotknowthetime,normanner,nor means of his conversion, but every one may know that he isconverted;themotherdothnotknowhowshecomestobequick,butsheknoweththatshe isquick, forshe feeleth thechild tostir inherwomb;howtheshadowmovethonthedialwecannotsee,butthatitmovethweseeplainly,inthatitisoppositeatnighttotheplacewhereitwasatnoon.Though conversion be not ever sensible in the act, yet it is sensibleenoughby itseffects;and the reasonwhy it isnot inallalikevisible, isbecauseit isnotinallalikeviolent.GodconvertethsomebyBoanerges,sonsofthunder;othersbyaBarnabas,asonofconsolation.Tosomehecomes,asonmountSinai,Exod.19,withthunderings, lightnings,andagreatnoise;toothers,astoElijah,withastillsmallvoice,1Kings19:12.TheSpirit fallsdownonsome,asontheapostles, likeamightyrushing

wind,or likefireshakingandscorchingthem,Acts2:2,3;onothers,asonJesusChrist, in theshapeofadove,dealingmildlyandmeeklywiththem.The jailer isbroughthomebyanearthquake,andanheartquake,Acts 16:29, when the door of Lydia's heart is opened softly, and JesusChrist entereth in without any noise, Acts 16:14. Some in a swoon arerevived only by pouring a little hot water down their throats, whereasothersmust be rubbed hard, and beaten sore before they will come tothemselvesagain:Cant.6:12,'EreIwasaware,mysoulmademelikethechariotsofAmminadib.'

Somehavebeeninfamousforpleasureinsin,andsuchareusuallymademoreapprehensiveofthepainduetosinners;Godbringethallhomebyweeping-cross, but them especially that have been most wicked. Thephysicianis forcedtogivestrongphysictosuchsturdy,strongpatients,otherwise itwill notwork.Aman that is an old sinner is like one thathath had a bone long out of joint, and is festered; thismanmust feelmuchpainbeforeitbebroughtintoitsrightplace.

SometimesGod intendeth to liftasoulhighwithspiritualconsolations;and, toprepare it for them,he layeth it lowwith legalhumiliation.Wethrow the ball hard against the ground, when we intend that it shallboundhigh.Paulwasforciblycasttotheearth,beforehewasfavourablycaughtuptothethirdheaven.

Somearedesigned to behigh inholiness—eminentpatterns of piety toothers;andsuchareoftenfilledwithsorrow,anddo,morethanothers,feelthesmartofsin.Whentheworkmanwillmakehisbuildinghighandexact,helayeththefoundationdeepandlow.

God isnot limited:hedealethwithmenasheseethgood. It ishiswill,and that is reason enough, that all his children should not be broughtforthwith thesamepain.Hehathseveralmedicines,whereof somearemoresweet,othersmoresour,forthecureoftheirspiritualmaladies,andheapplieththemasitpleasethhim.

Now, when the Spirit of God worketh most forcibly, then the manperceiveth it most sensibly. Besides, some men and women have hadinclinations towards God and godliness ever since they came to any

knowledge;theysuckedthemilkofgracebetimesfromthebreastoftheirparents,Imeantheirreligiouseducation.ObadiahfearedtheLordfromhisyouth,1Kings18:12;TimothyfromachildknewtheholyScriptures;thedewsofgraceweredroptfromheavenupontheirsoulsearly, inthemorningof their age.And in such cases conversion, as to the time andmannerof it, isunderacloud;for,ashethat is lockedupinsomedarkdungeonmay easily discover themoment of timewhen either the leastbeam of the sun, or glimmering of daylight did break in upon him;whereashe that isalways in theopenair issensible that thedaylight isbroke, that the sun is risen, but cannot tell youpreciselywhen thedaysprang, or the sun rose; so some that have been betimes put outapprenticestothedevilbytheirparents,beentaughtthathellishtradeofsin, and nurtured in obstinacy and ignorance, being locked up andfettered in thedungeonofdarkness,asPeter inprison; thesemenmayeasilyrememberthetimewhentheday-starfromonhighdidvisitthem;when theAngelof theCovenantcameupon themandcauseda light toshineaboutthem,andraisedthemup,andcausedtheirfetterstofalloff,the prison door to fly open, and commanded them to arise and followhim.Butthosethatwereeverintheopenair—broughtupinthenurtureandadmonitionof theLord, likevesselswhenseasonedwithholiness—thosecannottellyouthedaywhensalvationcametotheirsouls;theycantellyouthedayisbroke,butwhentheyknownot.Onethingtheyknow,'thatwhereastheywereblind,nowtheysee,'buthowtheycamebytheirsight they cannot certify you; they can tell you that they are sanctified,buttheseasonofittheycannottell.Reader,thoughthetimeandmannerof thisworkmakes theknowledgeof itmoreeasyandsensible tosomethantoothers,yettoallitispossible.

God'spreceptsspeakitpossible:Godrequirethofhispeoplesuchthingsaswouldbetonopurposeiftheycouldnotbeassuredoftheirgraceandpurity.Hecommandeth to examine themselveswhether theyare in thefaithorno,2Cor.13:5.Now, towhatpurposeorendshould the lawofGodbeproduced,theperson'sheartandlifecomparedwithit,witnessesbe examined, theman thus arraigned in the court of conscience, if thematter in debate could not be brought to an issue, if it could not beknownwhetherhebesanctifiedornot?Godbidsusmakeourcallingandelectionsure,2Pet.1:10,thereforetheymaybeensured.Weareenjoined

to praywith confidence, and to call God Father,Heb. 10:22;Mat. 6:9;whichcertainlynonecando,ifnonecanknowthattheyarehischildren.

Theapostle tellsus thatwemustrejoice in theLord,Phil.3:1,andthatalways,1Thes.5:16,evenintribulation,Mat.5:10,whichwhocandoifheknownotwhetherGodbehisfriendorenemy?

Besides, the promises of God shew it possible: John 14:21, 'I will lovehim,' thatkeepethmycommandments, 'andmanifestmyselfuntohim,'saithChrist; Isa.60:16;Ps.50:23,and85:8,9.Now,whatGod'smercypromiseth,histruthperformeth.

ThehelpslikewisewhichGodaffordsusspeakthisfeasible.TheScripturesettethdownthesignsofthemenandwomenwhicharesanctified,andwhichshallbesaved:'Andherebyweknowthatweknowhim,ifwekeephiscommandments.'Toknowthatweknowhimistobeassuredthatweknowhim:1John5:13,'ThesethingshaveIwrittenuntoyouthatbelieveon thenameof theSonofGod, that yemayknow that yehave eternallife.' Mark, they did believe before, yet St John writes that theymightbelieve;theyhadbeforethefaithofadherence,Johnwritestothemthattheymighthavethefaithofassurance.Thesacramentsarealsogivenasbroadseals,andtheSpiritastheprivysealofheaven,toensuresalvation,Rom.4:11;Eph.1:13.

Inaword,thepatternandexperiencesofthesaintsspeakthispossible;thatwhichothershaveacquiredisnotimpossibletous.ThechildrenofGodhavebeenassuredoftheiradoption,thatGodwastheirFather,Isa.63:16; 1 John 3:2: 'Though Abraham be ignorant of us, and Israelacknowledgeusnot:doubtlessthouartourFather;thou,OLordartourFather,andourRedeemer.'Theyhavebeenassuredoftheirjustification,Job13:18;Ps.45:2;perseveranceingrace,1Thes.5:25;Rom.8:35,totheend;oftheirrighttogloryandsalvation:2Cor.5:1,'Weknowthatwhenthehousesofourearthlytabernaclesshallbedissolved,weshallenjoyabuilding of God, an house not made with hands, but eternal in theheavens.'So2Tim.4:7,8;Job19:25;2Tim.1:12.Andallthisassuranceofadoption, justification,perseverance ingrace, fruitionofglory,whichsaints have, doth proceed from their assurance of their regeneration: 1John3:14, 'Weknow thatwearepassed fromdeath to life,becausewe

love the brethren.' Regeneration or holiness is the first fruitswhich doensuretheharvest,andtheearnestwhichdothconfirmthebargain,andensurethefullsum.

Now,reader,havinggiventheesomemotives toquickenthee to try thysoul,Ishalllaydownthemarks,andbringtheetothetest;andtheyshallbetakenfromthenatureandeffectsofregeneration.

First,Examinethineheartbythenatureofthistrueholiness.Nowtherearetwothingsinthenatureofthisnewcreature.Ineverybirththereisgeneratio unius et corruptio alterius, saith the philosopher, somethinggenerated and something destroyed; so in this new birth there is theproductionofgrace,andthedestructionofvice;thelifeofrighteousness,andthedeathofsin;thesettingupoftheark,andthethrowingdownofDagon.ThesinfulnessofoursoulsbyourfirstbirthsconsistethintheiraversionfromGodandgood,andintheirconversiontotheeviloneandevil; inhaving the imageofSatan imprintedon them,and the imageofGodblottedoutofthem.Thesanctityofoursoulsbytheirsecondbirthsconsisteth in their conversion to God, and their aversion from sin; inhaving the image of the devil razed out of them, and the image of theSaviourstampedonthem.'Aswehavebornetheimageoftheearthly,sowemustbeartheimageoftheheavenly.'Andthesetwopartsofthegoodpart, are like two buckets in awell, as the one, namely, the interest ofGod,comethup, theother,namely, the interestof sinandSatan,goethdown;thehigherthesungetteth,themorestillitscattereththedarkness.

First,There is in thisnewnatureadyingtosin.Theapostlecalleth itaputting off the old man, Eph. 4:22, and a dying to sin, Rom. 6:11.Conversion, like the shipman's fatal star, is never seen but before thewreck and death of sin. The spring of grace is a living fountain, andcleanseth itself ofmire anddirt.Grace, likeChrist, increaseth, and sin,liketheBaptist,decreaseth.TheexpressionoftheHolyGhostaboutthisisworthyourseriousconsideration:Rom.6:6,'Knowingthis,thatouroldmaniscrucifiedwithhim,thatthebodyofsinmightbedestroyed,thathenceforthweshouldnotservesin;forhethatisdeadisfreedfromsin.'Lo,heresinisservedbyChristthesamesaucewhichitformerlyservedChrist.Sincrucifiedhimwhenhecameinthelikenessofsinfulflesh,andheslayethitwhenhecomethintothesoulbyhisSpirit;but,inthewords

of the apostle, observe sin's appellation and its execution. For itsappellationitiscalled,first,'theoldman,'partlybecauseitisderivedandpropagated from Adam, the eldest of men; partly in comparison ofrenovation,andrenewingthewholeman.Itiscalled,secondly,'thebodyof sin,' partly because man's corrupt nature, like a body or stock,brancheth forth into divers actual sins asmembers,Col. 3:5;Gal. 5:19;partly because of the strength of it, as also because men are as muchnaturallyinlovewiththeirsinsaswiththemselves.Buttakenoticeoftheexecutionofthisoldman,ofthisbodyofsin,intheregenerate.Theoldman'iscrucified.'Sin,likeanoldmaninthemwhicharenewmade,dothdecayanddeclineeveryday;itiseveryhourgrowingweakerandweaker,and nearer to its grave and utter abolition. Regeneration giveth sin itsdeath'swound,though,asthosethatarecrucified,itdiethlingeringly,yetitdiethcertainly.Sin,likeamaninaconsumption,inaconvertedpersonis always wasting and dying, till at last it is quite dead. One that ismortally wounded sprawleth and moveth for a time, but afterwardsgiveth up the ghost; so sin, while saints live, though it be mortallywounded, doth rage and stir, but it abateth in strength, anddiethwiththem.

St Augustine relateth of the serpent, that when she groweth old, shedrawethherselfthroughanarrowhole,andbythismeans,strippingoffheroldskin,sherenewethherage.TrulythustheChristianismadenew,byputtingofftheoldcoatoftheoldman.

TheScripturespeakethexpressly: 'HethatisbornofGodsinnethnot,'1John 3:9, that is, constantly; sin is not his design or employment; andcheerfully, sin is not his delight or element, for sin is against his newnature. Now a man can do nothing against his nature cordially orconstantly; sinmay rebel within him, but it cannot reign over him; helooksonsinashisgreatestenemy,andthereforeitisimpossiblethatheshouldconversewithitinawayofamity.Nay,asfireandwater,heatandcold,nevermeetbuttheyfight,sothisnewlife is incontinualwarwitheverylust:thenewcreatureislikeuntoGod,ofpurereyesthantobeholdiniquity,Hab.1:13.Theevilofsincannotordinarilygetagoodlookfromhim;he cannotmeet this ugly guest in any corner of his house but hisheart riseth against him; he considereth what a Lord sin displeaseth,

whatalawsintransgresseth,whatabeautifulimagesindefaceth,whataglorious name sin dishonoureth, what a lovely, loving Saviour sinbuffeted shamefully and tortured cruelly, what a precious soul andpeerless salvationsinwas like tohave losthimeternally.Andoh it is akillinglookwhichthissoulgivethhisdearestlust!Ah,thinkshe,thatevermynature should hatch and harbour such hideousmonsters! that evermy heart should be a polluted bed to breed and bring forth such apoisonous brood! It was my iniquity that bade defiance to the highestMajesty; it was my corruption which scourged the back, wounded thehead, nailed the feet and hands, yea, pierced the very heart of JesusChrist;mywickednesswastheweightwhichcausedhisbloodysweat;mylust was the murderer which put to death the Lord of life; it was mycovetousness which betrayed him, my cowardliness which condemnedhim,andmycrueltywhichexecutedhim;andshallIbeafriendtothattraitor which was a foe to my Redeemer! Well, whatever it cost me,throughthestrengthofChristIwillhave justiceuponthesemurderers;through the help of heaven, these brats of hell shall have their brainsdashedout.Hisgreat care is everyday to conquerhis corruptions.Thebodyofsinanddeath,towhichheistied,isasnoisometohissoulasadeadbodytohissenses.Lustisasburdensometohimasawitheredarm,which hangs on a man like a lump of lead. Never did prisoner moreardently desire to be rid of his fetters, than this saint to be freed fromsubjectiontohissins.ThedistressedJewsdidnotgroansomuchundertheir Egyptian slavery as this true Israelite for spiritual liberty: 'OwretchedmanthatIam,'saithhe,'whoshalldelivermefromthisbodyofsin and death?' Rom. 7:24. His great end and endeavour, in everyprovidence and every ordinance, is, not the repression, but the ruin ofthisevilofsin.Ifthesunofmercyshinewarmuponhim,hemakesuseofittoputoutthekitchen-fireofwickedness.WhenGodsolacethhisspiritwithextraordinarykindness,thesacrificeofthanksgivingthatheofferethupisthebeastofsomesinwhichhelayethonthealtar,andpourethforthits blood before the Lord. When the storm of affliction ariseth, heinquirethfortheJonahwhichraisedthetempest,andendeavoureththathemaybecastoverboardanddrowned.

And as he makes use of divine providences, so likewise of divineordinances,fortheweakeninghiscorruptions.

In prayer, like the sick child, he pointeth at the place of his pain; heindicteth, accuseth, and condemneth sin, and entreateth that itmaybeexecuted; his prayers and tears are his daily weapons wherewith hefighteth against his most inward and secret wickedness. When heperceivethlust,likeAdonijah,usurpingthethroneofhisheart,hegoethuntoGod, asBathsheba toDavid, sighingand saying,DidnotmyLordpromisehisservantthatthetrueSolomonshouldreigninmysoul?thatJesusChrist, thePrinceofpeace, should sway the sceptre inmy spirit?Andnow,behold,hisfoes,whichthouhastsworntomakehisfootstool,have traitorouslyaspired to thecrown,and forciblymademesubject totheir commands. As Esther, he is very desirous of these Hamans'destruction,andwatchethcontinuallyforafitopportunitytopresenthispetitiontotheKingofkingsforthatend;andwheninanydutyheseeththeGodofglorytoholdoutthegoldensceptreofmercytowardshim,ohthenhebeggeth for justice: If Ihave found favour in thysight,OKing,andifitpleasetheKing,letthelifeofmysoulbegivenmeatmypetition,andthedeathofmysinsatmyrequest.DidthydearSondieforsin,andshall thypoor servant live in sin?Shall not these thine enemies,whichwouldnothavetheetoreignoverme,beslainbeforethyface?'Ordermystepsbythyword,and letnotany iniquityhavedominionoverme,'Ps.119:133.Thusbyprayer,asbyonemainpieceofhisspiritualarmour,hebecomesprevalent.TheRomansovercametheirenemiessitting,(thatis,thesenatebytheirprudentcounsels,)buttheChristiankneeling;byhisholyvalourhewrestlethwithGod,andthroughthepowerofChristgetsthevictory,2Cor.12:6.

Andbecause thedevilof some lustswillnotbecastoutwithout fastingand prayer, therefore he joineth fasting to supplication, and trieth tostarve his corruptions. Beforehand he fitteth himself for that day ofpurgingouthisill-humours,bythepreparatorypotionofmeditation.Theconsideration of his sins, howbloody andheinous in their nature, howcrying and crimson in their circumstances, makes his physic work thebetter. He thinketh before: The day of mourning for (offending) myFatheriscoming,andthenIwillslaymybrotherJacob,mydearestandnearest sin. This man bringeth under his natural body, which he maylawfullycherish,thathemayabatethestrengthofthebodyofdeath;asmensometimesinafeveropenaveinandletouttheirblood,thoughitbe

notbad,thattheymayweakentheirenemy.

InreadingandhearingthelawofGod,hesettinghislustsnakedbeforethatswordoftheSpirit,thattheymaybehewnbytheprophets,andslainbythewordsofGod'smouth.Hedesiresthat itmaypiercedeep,tothedividing of soul and spirit, of the joints and marrow, and to thediscovering of the thoughts and intents of his heart. His voice to theminister is like the prophet's to his neighbour, 'Smiteme, I pray thee;'and likeshimbest that insmitingwoundshissinmost.Heapprovesofthatchirurgeonthatsearchethhiswoundsthoroughly,thoughheputhimtopain;herejoiceththatthepreacherrevealethtohimhiserrors,thathemayfollowthemwithhueandcrytilltheyaretakenandpunished,andso God's pursuit of himmay be prevented. If the minister give him abitter pill of reproof, he doth not, like a queasy stomach, favour hismalady and loathe his medicine, but takes it down willingly, knowingthat,thoughsuchthingsbenottoothsome,yettheyarewholesome,andthat they must be bitter things that break the bag of worms in hisstomach;sweetthingswillnourishandcherishthem.Heisgladthattheword is fire, that thereby his drossmay be consumed; that it is water,because his heart therebymay be washed and purified. 'He hideth thewordinhisheart,thathemaynotsinagainstGod,'Ps.119:11.

HegoethtotheLord'ssupper,thatthebloodofhissinsmaybeshedbythebloodoftheSaviour.ThecrossofChrististhesoul'sarmourandsin'sterror; there is life in it for thedeathof sin.Pliny saith that the fastingspittleofamanwillkillserpents.SureIamthebloodofChrist,appliedby faith, will mortify sin, and therefore the saint frequenteth thesacrament. He goeth to it, as Naaman to Jordan, to be cured of hisspiritual leprosy;whenheapproacheththetableof theLord,andseeth,in the bread broken, and the wine poured out, by faith, Jesus Christcrucifiedbeforehiseyes,ohhowhisheartburnethwithinhiminhatredand indignationagainsthis sin, and indesires after, anddelight in,hisRedeemer. He beholdeth there the knives of his pride, unbelief,hypocrisy,malice,andthe like,all redded in thebloodof theMediator;andnowhis eyes sparklewith fire and fury, andhis soul swellethwithwrath, and revenge against them;were but his hand answerable to hisheart, Imeanhis power to hiswill, hewould put sin to asmuch pain,

makeitsufferasmuchshame,causeittoundergoascursedadeath,aseverJesusChristdid.NowthisframeofspiritisexceedinglypleasingtotheKingofsaints;hebespeaks thesoulat thesacrament,asHeroddidthedamsel,'Askofmewhatthouwilt,andIwillgiveitthee,tothehalf,nay,tothewholeofmykingdom.'Thesoulhavingbeforeconsultedwithhisregeneratepart,(forthiswasapiousplotlaidbefore,onlyputofftillaconvenient day,) asketh the head of some lust in a charger. The Kingsendeth presently, commandeth execution to be done accordingly. Thenewcreaturedothnowwitha joyfulheart lookuptoheaven,andsaith,BlessedbetheLordGodofIsrael,whohaththisdayavengedmeofmineenemy;would toGod thatall theenemiesofmyLord theKing,andallthatriseupwithinmeagainstthylaws,wereasthatonelust!

Healsowithdraweth those thingswhichhave fedhis spiritualdiseases;hetakesawaythefuel,thathemayputoutthefire;hehatestheverycupout ofwhichhe formerlydrankhis loathsomephysic; he cuts off thosepipeswhichhavesuppliedhisadversaries;heavoideth theoccasionsofevil; he knoweth that his corrupt heart is gunpowder; and therefore,wheresoever he goeth, he is fearful of the least spark. 'He hateth thegarments spotted with the flesh,' Jude 23. He endeavoureth that hisraiment may not only be preserved from burning, but, as the threechildren's, fromsingeing.He isa truedove, thatdothnotonly fly fromthe hawk, from sin, but will not so much as smell of a feather whichfalleth fromthehawk;heabstaineth fromappearancesofevil;hedaresnotcomenearthebrowofthehill,sofarishefromfallingtothebottom.Thusthesanctifiedmanusethallmeansforthemurderingofhissins.

Now, reader, consider, how is it with thee? Hast thou applied theseseveralparticulars to thyself?What sayest thou? Is it thy endeavourbyevery providence, and thy end in every ordinance, to mortify thycorruptions,andtobring those traitors toexecution?Is it thydesigntocover sin, or to kill sin? Dost thou pray against sin, as Augustineconfessed he did before his conversion, as one afraid that God shouldhearthee,andgranttherequest,notofthyheart,butofthylips?oristhedeathof thy sins theverydesireof thy soul?Anunconvertedmanmayputupmanyprayers,butnodesiresagainstsin.

An unregenerate person fighteth against sin, as the Athenians against

PhilipofMacedon,withwordsratherthanwithswords.Orassomethatopenly prosecute the law against a malefactor, and yet favour himunderhand; so thismanmakes a show of pursuing sin unto the death,accusing, arraigning it, witnessing against it in prayer, and desiringjudgment;butinwardlyhesominceththematter,takethofftheedgeoftheevidenceagainst it,asoneresolvedthat itshall live;hisexpressionscryoutofsin,astheJewsofChrist,Awaywithit,awaywithit, it isnotworthytolive, let itbecrucified;buthisaffectionscallwithmuchmoreardency,asPilate,Whyshoulditdie?whatevilhathitdone?wefindnofaultinit,oratleast,asAugustine'sheart,Notyet,Lord,notyet.Alittlelongerhewouldwillinglylazeuponthebedoflust:alittlemoreslumber,a littlemore sleep, saith this spiritual sluggard. Truly, all this show ofwarring against sin, is but false fire, which, you know, can do noexecution.

Fencers, at a prize, sometimes ply one another so home, and strike sohard,thattheyseemtobeinearnest,whentheyareallthewhilebutinjest; their intentions are to please the people, and thereby to advancetheirprofit,bygettingalittlemoney,butnotatalltowoundoneanother,at least not dangerously; a slight wound possibly may happen. Thusunsanctifiedmencombatwith sin; they seemby theirpraying, reading,hearing,toaimatitsdeath,tobeinearnest,whenindeedtheirintentionsare to carry on their own interest; and their resolutions, that howevertheymay raze sin slightly, for their own ends, not to wound it deeply.Friend,Iknownot,butGodknoweth,whetheritbethuswiththeeorno.Dost thou by civility, by the performance of duties, by attendance onordinances,telltheworldthatthouwouldstcrucifythycorruptions,whensuch a thing is not in thy retired thoughts? as Caligula with bannersdisplayed, battle ranged, trumpets sounding, set his soldiers to gathercockles. Or dost thou enter the list against thy lust, as David againstGoliath, reckoning to kill, or be killed, resolving, through the help ofheaven,theruinoftheuncircumcisedPhilistine?

Is the fight between thy judgment and thy will—between thineenlightened conscience and thy affections? or between the spirit andflesh, the law in thymind, and the law in thymembers, the regenerateandtheunregeneratepart?

Dostthouhateandfightagainstsinassin,andsoagainsteverysin?forall true hatred is against the whole kind. Dost thou loathe it as muchwhen it riseth in thyheart, aswhen it rageth in thy life? in thydearestfriends,asinthybitterestenemies?ItwassaidofAnthonythathehateda tyrant,not tyranny;dost thouabhor thediseaseor thepatient? canstthou say, asDavid, 'Ihate every falseway'?Ps. 119:104.Universality inthis isasuresignofsincerity.Herodspitsoutsomesins,whenherollsothers as sweetmorsels inhismouth.Ahypocrite ever leaves thedevilsomenest-eggtositupon,thoughhetakemanyaway.Somemenwillnotbuy some commodities, because they cannot have them at their ownprice,but they layout thesamemoneyonothers;sohypocrites forbearsome sins, yea, aredispleased at them,because they cannothave themwithoutdisgraceordiseases,orsomeotherdisadvantage;buttheylayoutthesameloveuponothersins,whichwillsuitbetterwiththeirdesigns.Someaffirm,what the sea loseth inoneplace, it gaineth inanother; sowhatgroundthecorruptionoftheunconvertedlosethoneway,itgainethanother.Thereis inhimsomeonelustespeciallywhichishisfavourite;some king-sin, like Agag, which must be spared when others aredestroyed.'InthistheLordbemercifultothyservant,'saithNaaman.Butnowtheregeneratelabourethtocleansehimselffromallpollutions,bothoffleshandspirit,2Cor.7:1.GraceislikeCæsar,whowouldadmitofnosuperior;nay,likeoil,itwillallowofnomixture.Sinmaybeinthesaintas rawness and illness inwater, but the fire of graceworketh it out bydegrees,sendingitforthinthescum.Theleastdropofwateriscontraryto, and opposed by fire, as well as the full vessel; so the least sin iscontraryto,andopposedbygraceaswellasthegreatest.Theshepherd'sdogforceththewholeflocktofly,buthathaspecialeyetoonesheep,towhichheisdirectedbythestafforastonefromtheshepherd.Orasthehounds,saithadivine,drivethewholeherdofdeerbeforethem,yethaveaspecialeyetoonedeerwhichissingledoutbythedartofthehuntsman,thathoweverothersmayescape,yetthatshallbekilled;soregeneration,thoughitworkinthesouladetestationof,andaresolutionagainst,everysin,yettheseverestexerciseofthishatredandoppositionisagainsttheman's beloved and delightful sin, resolving, however others shouldescape, yet this shall be put to death. As the Syrian commanded hissoldiers to fightneither against smallnor great, but against thekingofIsrael,sotrulythebentofthesanctifiedheart ismostagainstthisroyal

king-sin,as thatsinwherebyGodhathbeenmostdishonoured,andhissoulmostdeeplywounded.

Ambroserelatesastoryofadog,whosemasterbeingslainbyoneofhisenemies, he lay by him all night, with great lamentation, howling andbarking. In the morning many came to see the dead corpse, amongstwhom was the murderer; the dog no sooner saw the homicide, butpresentlyfelluponhim.Friend,isthygreatesthatredandangeragainstthy Saviour-and-soul-murderer, that master-sin in which thou didstformerly take the greatest pleasure?Canst thou say, asDavid, (observethatcharacterofuprightness,)'Iwasuprightbeforehim,andkeptmyselffrommine iniquity'?Ps. 18:23.Mark, 'frommine iniquity.' The godlessman,thoughhedomuch,willbesuretofailhere;andthegodlymanwillstrikehomehere,whereverhebefavourable.Ahorsethat isnotsound,but foundered, will favour one foot, if not more; the lapwing, someobserve,will cry, andmake a greatnoise, but it iswhen she is farthestfromhernest; thehypocritemaykeepagreatstiraboutmanysins,butthere is one sin which hemeddleth not with. There is, saith a learneddivine, no greater argument of unsound repentance, than indulgentthoughts,andreserveddelightandcomplacencyinamaster-sin.Assomegrounds are most proper soils to breed and nourish some particularweeds, so are somemen's hearts for someparticular sins: asCain's forenvy, Korah's for arrogancy, Pilate's for cowardliness, the youngman'sforcovetousness;andthissinisordinarilythegreatestblockinthewayofconversion; rather than men would leave this sin, they have lostsalvation,Mark 10:22; John 12:42, 43. The devil holds them as fast bythisonelinkasbytenthousand.Asitiswitharabbit'sskin,itcomesoffverywell,tillitcometothehead,andthenthereishaulingandpulling,and much ado before it stirs. So the creature may do much at thecommand of God, but there is old stir and pulling before this sin beseparated from him; if this be once done thoroughly, the man isconvertedtruly,fornothingbutasavingwork,cancauseamantoloathethatsinwhichhelovedashimself;andthereforeanunconvertedpersonwilleverbefalseinthis.JehumaythrowdowntheidolatryofBaal,butnot the calves at Dan and Bethel. The young man in his worldliness,Herodinhisuncleanness,Balaaminhisstubbornness,mustbeexcused.Theconverted soul is in thismost careful; asCranmer,hewillput that

unworthy righthand first in the fire,withwhichbyhis subscriptionhehadsomuchdishonouredChristandreligion.MohammedtheGreat,firstemperoroftheTurks,cutoffhisfairIrene'sheadwithhisownhands,inwhomhehadsoexceedinglydelighted,toassurehisbashawsthathehadrather promote the public peace and good, than please and satisfy hisownpassions.The trueChristian isa fargreaterconqueror,and,outoflove to God and his own salvation, obtains a more lawful and noblevictoryoverthemistressofhisaffections.Heknowethnosin,beitneversonearordeartohim,worthhazardingthelossofGod'sfavourandhiseternal welfare for. And therefore though his sin be an Absalom,concerningwhichcorruptnature,likeDavid,givesaspecialcharge,SparetheyoungmanAbsalom:dealgentlywithhimformysake;heseeth,likeJoab,thatthewaytoscatterthearmyoflustsistoslaythegeneral,thiscommander-in-chief. And therefore he resolveth to make sure work ofhim, and for that end takes three darts and strikes him through withthemall,whenonewouldhavedonethedeed.

Reader,IconfessIhavebeenmuchlarger inthisheadthanI intended;but if thouexamine thineheart faithfullyandprudentlyby it, thouwilthavenocausetobesorryforit.Ihavereadthatitwaswonttobethewayoftrial,whetherlandbelongedtoEnglandorIreland,byputtingtoadsorserpents,orothervenomouscreatures,intoit.Iftheylivedthere,thelandbelongedtoEngland;iftheydied,toIreland.SureIamthoumayesttrywhetherthouatpresentbelongesttoheavenortohell, toacovenantofworks, or to the covenant of grace, whether thou art converted orunconverted;ifvenomouslustsdoliveinthee,thouartEnglishland,inastateofnatureandwrath;iftheydiedailyinthee,thouartinChrist,andbelongest to the landofparadise.Yet Iwouldnotbeunderstoodas if Imeant that godlymen are never overtakenwith sin, or that corruptionnevergetsthebetterofthem.ForIknowthatthepurestonearthareholybut in part; they are like watermen rowing hard against the stream ofcorruption,but, througha suddenandviolentblast of temptation, theymaybedrivenbackward.Butobserve, this isviolent,against their fixedanddeliberateresolutions;theirobediencetothelawofsinisforcedastoausurper,not freeas toa liege lord.Ahab indeedsoldhimself tosin, 1Kings21:20,butPaulwas soldunder sin,Rom.7:14.The formerwasavolunteerandagent,thelatterapressedman,amerepatient.Augustine

settethoutthedifferencebetweensinintheregenerateandunregenerateby a comparison of Tarquin and Lucretia, where, speaking of herravishment, therewere,saithhe, twobodies,butoneguiltyofadultery,andconcludeththesinwascommitteduponher,notbyher.Consonanttowhichisthatoftheapostle,'ForthatwhichIdo,Iallownot;forwhatIwould,thatIdonot;butwhatIhate,thatIdo:nowIfIdowhatIwouldnot,itisnomoreIthatdoit,butsinthatdwellethinme,'Rom.7:15,20.Theconvertedperson, likethebetrothedvirgin, is forced;hecriethout,andtherefore inGod'saccount is innocent.Ourcommittingsinwillnotspeakusunsanctified,butoursubmittingtoitwill.

Secondly,Thereisinthisnewcreature,asadyingtosin,soalsoalivingtoGodinallwaysofobedience,Rom.6:11.Astheoldmanisputoff,sothenewmanisputon;besidestheexpulsionofsin,thereistheinfusionofholiness.Ahabitorprincipleofgraceisbestowedonthesoul,wherebyit breatheth after, exerciseth and delighteth itself in, the ways andworshipofGod;thereisaninwardframeanddispositioninfusedintothenewcreature,differentfrom,nay,contraryto,hisformerinclinations:thestream of his heart and life before ran swiftly after the flesh and theworld;thecreaturesatuponthethroneinhisinwardman,commandingall things atpleasure; earthwas theman'sheaven; theworld lay inhisheart,andalltheman'saffectionsandactionswereorderedanddisposedfor the advancement of that interest. But now the tide is turned, thewatersruninanotherchannel;theLordisexaltedinhisaffections,ashischiefestgood,andinhisconversationashisutmostend;thelawofGodiswrittenintheheart,andcommenteduponinthelife;theinwardmanisofagoodconstitution,andtheoutwardmanofagoodcomplexion.GraceisatendencyofthesoulGod-ward;hisunderstandingknowethGodtobethegreatestgood,John17.Hiswillchoosethhim,hisaffectionslovehim,hisdesireisafterhim,hisdelightisinhim,hisfearisofhim,histrustison him, his care and endeavour is towalkworthy of the Lord unto allwell-pleasing, John 17:3; Ps. 16:5, 6, and 73:25, 26; Isa. 7:8; Ps. 37:4;Gen. 42:18; like the sun-flower, he followeth themotion of the Sun ofrighteousness.

Now reader, try thyself; art thou alive to God? Dost thou take him inChristforthyhappiness,andmakehimthineend?Isitthybusinessand

tradetodohiswill,thycallingandemploymenttofinishhiswork?Isthyheart devoted to his fear, and thy life to his honour? How art thouaffectedtohiswordandworship?DostthouperformdutiesoutoflovetoGod, with complacency in God? Is it thy meat and drink to obey hisprecepts?Howisthysoulravishedwiththesweetnessesofhispromises?Artthoujoyfulinthehouseofprayer?IstheSabbaththydelight?IstheScripture sweeter to thee than the honey and honeycomb? At thesacrament, canst thousitunderChrist's shadowwithgreatdelight, andfind his fruit sweet unto thy taste? Dost thou esteem the yoke of thySavioureasy,hisservice liberty,hisways, 'waysofpleasantness,andallhispathspeace'?Canstthousay,'OnedayinGod'scourtsisbetterthanathousand elsewhere'?Hast thou found that it is good for thee to drawnightoGod?Ifthouwertputtothychoice,hadstthourathersolacethysoul with sensual recreations, or in communion with the Father, andJesus Christ his Son? Examine thine heart; for if thou hast the divinenature,divineandspiritualthingswillbenatural,andsopleasanttothee.A man whose nature is covetous, how exceedingly doth he delight inviewing and feeling money! as the Roman emperor would put off hisclothesandtumbleupanddowninheapsofsilver.Ifaman'snaturebeproud,howexceedinglypleased ishe in the capand theknee, inbeingflattered and respected! it is meat and drink to him, as we say, to bereverencedinmen'scarriage,andhonouredintheirlanguage;menlovethose things alife, because they suitwith their natures: sowhen amanhathanewnature,aspiritualholynature,thingswhicharespiritualandholywillbeacceptabletohim,becausetheyaresuitabletohisnature;theword will be welcome, prayer will be pleasant, ordinances will be assavouryasfoodtothehungry;themanwilllove'thehabitationofGod'shouse,and theplacewhereGod'shonourdwelleth'; thoughhis fleshbeweak, his spirit is always willing.Hemay be weary at a duty, that thewheelsofhissoulshouldbecloggedwiththedirtofinfidelity,andmakehimdrivesoheavily,butheisneverwearyofduties;thoughcorruptionandSatannowdoghimat,anddisturbhimin,hisperformances,yetitisthe comfort of his soul that he now drags them in chains after thetriumphantchariotofgrace;andherejoicethtothinkhowheshallleavethebodyofdeathbehindhim,attheentranceofhissoulintotheCapitolof glory.Hisheart leapsnow,whenhis feetdobut creep in thewayofobedience;whenhegoethtothehouseofGod,itiswiththevoiceofjoy,

untothealtarofGod,yea,hisGodandexceedingjoy.

Whatsoeveramandothfromaningraftedpropensity,hedothitnotonlyinsincerity,butalsowithalacrity;hedelightsinitasthefishinthewater,asthemoleintheearth, it ishisproperelement;GodandthethingsofGod are his element; he would still be and live in this element. HedelightstoknowGod,toworshiphim,tobelieveinhim,tomeditateonhim,tosanctifyhisday,toglorifyhisname,toobservehislaws,toviewhischildren;heisneversowellaswhenheiswalkingwithGod.Iftherewere no heaven to prefer the obedient, and no hell to punish thedisobedient, yet he would fear the Lord, and delight greatly in hiscommandments.

Butontheotherside,speak,friend,artthoulistlessanddeadtospiritualthings? are they irksome and tedious to thee? Probably thecommandments ofGod are bonds and cords; the Sabbath thy toilsomeday,not adayof rest and refreshment; the sanctuary is thyprison, theserviceofGodissnuffedatbythee,andwearisometothee;thouartgladthatthedutyisdone,thedayisover,thyconsciencequieted,likeatenantwho is glad his rent is paid to his landlord, but took no pleasure inpartingwithhismoney;thourejoicestattheend,notatthebeginningofthyduty;thoucountestAmenthebestwordinaprayer,notbecauseitisthe fruit of thy faith, but because it puts a period to thy petitions; theblessingisthebestpartofdivineworship;thouesteemestnoparttobebeforeit,becausethatislast,andnothingcomesafter.

Religionisbutpossiblythyby-business,andalackeytothylusts,apassandaconvoywhichthouhastneedofinthytravellingthroughtheworld.Itmaybe thougoest todutyasabear to thestake; itgoethagainst thehairwith thee towalk in theway of holiness, though necessity compelthee,sometimes,oronceortwiceaday,totakeaturninthepathofpiety:consciencewillroarunlessitmayfindrestinsomeoutwardperformance.

Or thou mayest now and then perceive good company walking in thenarrowwaywhichleadethtolife;andso,astravellerscarenotiftheygoamileortwooutoftheirwayforcompany,especiallyifthewaybefair,andthecompanypleasing;sothoumayestgooutofthyownwaysometimes,andwalkalittlewiththesaintsforcompany.

Reader,befaithfultothysoul.Arealfiredifferethfromapaintedonebyitsheat;andsodoththerealfromthepaintedChristianbyhisheat,life,anddelightintheserviceofGod.IfthouartalivetoGod,thouartgivenup to all the laws of God; thou exercisest thyself therein to keep aconsciencevoidofoffencetowardsGodandmen.IfthouartaChristianindeed,theimageofGodisimprintedonthee;nowthisimageconsistethinknowledge,righteousness,andtrueholiness.Righteousnessconformsthyhearttothewholesecondtableofthemorallaw;holinessconformsittothewholefirsttable,andknowledgecompletesthisconformitytoboth.Theregeneratemanisnotmaimed;nopartofthenewmaniswanting:hecutsnotoffthegarmentsofholinessinthemidst.AgrippamaybehalfaChristian,Herodmaydomanythings,butZachariasandElisabethwalkinall thestatutesandordinancesof theLordblameless;andDavidwillfulfilallthewillofGod,Luke1:6;Acts13.Perfectholinessistherewardofthesaintsinheaven,butitisthedesireandendeavourofthesaintsonearth:'Ohthatmywaysweredirectedtokeepthycommandments'!Asaresolved traveller that is upon a journey of necessity, whether the wayandweatherbefairorfoul,hegoethon,byhonouranddishonour,byevilreportandgoodreport,untilheappearbeforeGodinZion.Heliftethatthe latch when he cannot open the door; he hath respect to all God'scommandments.Heobeyetheverylawofbothtables inhiswill, thoughhebreakthelawofbothtablesinhisworks.AstheheartsandwillsoftheAthenianswerewithSyllawithoutthewalls,whentheywerebesiegedbyhim,andkept in theirbodieswithinby force,so thesaintsarewith thewholelawintheirheartsandintentions,eventhenwhentheyareforcedtofail,inregardoftheirhandsandexecution,Rom.7:13,14.Paul'sthreeadverbsspeakasubstantialChristian,Tit.2:11.

Some are first-tablemen, zealous for religion and duties towards God,but cold and careless in point of righteousness and justice in theirdealingswithmen;othersaresecond-tablemen,veryjustandrighteoustowardsmen,yetmindnotreligiontowardsGod.ButthetrueChristianiscomplete inall thewillofGod,Phil.4:12. Integrality is the truenoteofintegrity.Thephilosophersaiththatdeceitliethinuniversals;thedivinesaiththatsincerityliethinuniversals.'Wetrust,'saithPaul,'thatwehaveagoodconscience,becausewedesireinallthingstolivehonestly,'Heb.13:18.

Ahypocriteislikesomebooks,oflittleworth,becausetheyareimperfect—something iswanting.Those commandswhichwill suitwithhis endsshall be taken in hisway, as Jehu did the preceptswhich enjoined therootingoutofAhab's family;but thosewhichcrosshisdesignsmustbecast by, as that precept to Jehu of rooting out the idolatry ofDan andBethel.ThusthisunconvertedpersonindentswithGod,assomeservantswiththeirmasters.Thisworkhewilldo,andthisworkhewillnotdo;andthus,whilehebreaksonecommandresolutely,hebreaksallreductively.The commands of the law are all copulative; they hang together like acarcanetofjewels—breakoneoff,andallfallwithit;orasonearticleofaleasebeingbroken,thewholeleaseisforfeited.Hethatbreaksonewithresolution and confidence, obeyeth none out of conscience. He thatdisobeyethGodwilfully in one command, shall find that he disobeyethGodwholly inall. 'Hethatkeepeththewhole law,andoffendeth inonepoint,isguiltyofall,'James2.

Reader,ifthoushouldstsitattable,andseeamanpiddlingathismeat,picking and choosing—this he liked, that he disliked—thou wouldstconclude, surely some ill-humours arepredominant inhim,hisbody isunsound.So,whenthouartpiddlingatthetableoftheword,pickingandchoosingamongthecommandsofofGod—thisthoulikest,itiseasy;thatthou dislikest, it will cost thee some pains, or tend to thy discredit—mayest thou not gather that corruption is toomuch prevailing in thee,and thy soul is unsound?Be it knownunto thee that thou art a traitoragainst theKingofheaven, If thouclippestor refusest anypiecewhichhathhisimpressionandsuperscription.

Secondly, Examine thyself by the effects of regeneration. I shall namethree effects of it, bywhich Iwould request thee to search and try thysoul.

First,Thenew-bornchilddesirethandsavoureththemeansofgrace.Theunconvertedman,beingdeadspiritually,hathnoappetiteto,nortasteof,spiritual food;but the livingchildhathboth: 'Asnew-bornbabesdesirethe sinceremilk of theword,' 1 Pet. 2:2. The babe of grace, as soon asborn, doth cry for the breast. He can nomore live in his soul withoutduties,thaninhisbodywithoutdiet.Theinfant-heirpreferrethhismilkbefore his largestmanors. A famine of the word pincheth and paineth

himmorethanafamineofbreadandwater.David'sbanishmentfromthetemplewashissoresttrouble,andafargreaterafflictiontohimthanhisforcedabsencefromhisdearestrelations.

OhthehungerofthisgracioussoulafterScripture! 'Iopenedmymouthand panted, for I longed for thy commandments,' Ps. 119:131. The big-belliedmother doth not longmore than this new-born child. The poorprisonerdothnotbegmoreheartilyforbread,thanheforspiritualfood,Ps.42:1,2,and63:1,2.Adivineobservethexcellentlyonthatfore-quotedplace,1Pet.2:2,athreefolddifferencebetweenthebadandgoodintheirdesiresoftheword.

1.Theregeneratedesiresthewordasthebabedothmilk.Howisthat?Hedesires itashis livelihoodwhenhe isnew-born, thoughafterwardhe ismoreplayful,andeverynoisemaycallhimofffromthebreast;butwhennew-born,nothingcansatisfybut thebreast.Soahypocritemaydesirethewordwhenthereisnothingtocallhim;butwhentheworldandthewordcomeincompetition,hewillfollowhisearthly,whateverbecomeofhisheavenly,business;butanew-bornchildprefersitbeforethousandsofgoldorsilver.

2.Thenew-bornchilddesiresthewordinitsplainness—thesinceremilkof the word, without mixture, as the child desires the mother's milkwithoutsugar;whereasanotherdesiresthewordinitsgaudydress,loftylanguage—partlyoutofpride,scorningthesimplicityofthegospel;partlyoutofcowardice,becausethenakedswordoftheword,drawnoutofitsgaudyscabbard,piercethdeepest.

3.Thenew-borncreaturedesires theword foragoodend, thathemaygrow thereby in grace andholiness; anothermanmaydesire it that hemay grow in ability to discourse, or the like; but thisman that hemaygrow in faith, love, and sanctifying graces. Besides, hunger being hissauce,makes theword sweet to him: 'He esteemeth theword of God'smouth more than his appointed food,' Job 23:12. Mark, not thanvarieties, or superfluous fare, but than daily and necessary food. Theformer might be spared, but this, for the preservation of life, isnecessarily required; butGod'swordwas before this. Spiritual daintiesaremost delightful to them that have special grace.And, truly, it is no

wonderthatthechilddothsoexceedinglylongfor,andlovethatwhichis,as itwere,his father: 'Iwillnever forget thyprecepts, forby themthouhast quickened me,' Ps. 119:93. Some men say they shall never forgetsuchafriendthelongestdaythattheyhavetolive.Whatisthereason?Theywill tellus theywerenighdeath, eitherby fire, orwater, or somedisease,and,underGod,suchmensavedtheirlives.SosaithDavid,'Iwillnever forget God's law the longest day I shall live.' Why?What is thematter?Alas!Iwasnighdeath,nextdoortoeternaldamnation;therewasbutathinpaperwalloflifebetweenmeandeverlastingwoe,and,underGod, the word helped me—it saved my soul; I will never forget thyprecepts, forwiththemthouhastquickenedme.IfAlexandercouldsaythathewasmorebound tohis tutorAristotle than tohis fatherPhilip,becausehehadonlyhisbeingfromthelatter,whenhehadhiswell-beingfrom the former, and therefore he prized him so much; how much,therefore,doththetrueChristianvaluethatword,whichisinstrumentalto his being in Christ here, and his everlasting well-being with Christhereafter?

Soforprayer,theregeneratepersoncannotlivewithoutit,andfellowshipwith God in it. He is like a full vessel—his heart filled with complaintagainstsin,withlongingafterChristandhislikeness.Ifyouwillnotgiveitvent,itwillburst.PrayerishisbreathingGodward.Withoutbreathingthebodycouldnotlive—itwouldbeinflamedandburntupwiththeheatof its own entrails; no more could the soul, unless the saint shouldbreatheoftentowardsheaven,crying,Abba,Father.SpiritualbreathwasthefirstsignofPaul'sspiritualbirth:'Behold,heprayeth,'Acts9:11.

SoImightspeakofotherordinancesofGod,forthereisaconstanttradedriven between the convert and heaven,which is carried on by severalcommodities,andIfthiscommercewerebrokenoffhecouldnotsubsist.Hefindeththemeansofgraceasneedfultokeepgraceandsoultogether,asmeat tokeep lifeandsoul together.Hisheart, though firedwith thisspiritual life, is like green wood, which will burn no longer than it isblownwiththebellowsofordinances.

Reader, howdost thou find thine appetite unto the bread andwater oflife?Dostthouhungeraftertheword,prayer,sacraments,communionofsaints,and theLord'sday?Canst thou feedon themwithdelight?Dost

thou rise from tablewith an appetite, longing to sit downagain?Canstthou say, as the psalmist, 'I watch, and am as the sparrow upon thehousetop'? Ps. 102:7. Observe, the sparrow upon the top of a houselookethon this side and that sideof thehouse, it looketh thisway andthatway,androundabout,ifhecanspyanycornandfood;andwhenitcanseeany,itfliethtothatplaceandpecksitup.Sodostthouwatchfor,andresorttotheordinancesofGod,whicharethefoodofthysoul?Whatsayestthou?Itmaybethouartforhighlanguage,oratoricalexpressions,such sermons only are pleasing to thee. The dishmust be set outwithmanyflowers,onwhichthoulookestmorethanatthemeat.Believeit,asthereisnogreatersignofafoulstomachthantoloathesolidmeat,andtopick salads or feed on ashes; so there is hardly a greater sign of anunsanctifiedheart,thantoloathethesolidfoodoftheword,andtopicktheflowersofman'swisdominasermon,ortofeedontheworld.

Or possibly thou art one of the newfangled opinionists of our unhappytimes, that are above ordinances. I must tell thee that to live aboveordinancesistolivebelowasaint.Hethatdothnotreckonthemeansofgrace his greatest privilege on this side the place of glory, may wellquestion whether ever he enjoyed God in them. Methinks the beggarshould know that door again at which he had a large alms, a full bait,James1:18,19;1Pet.2:2–4.Achild,indeed,mayforbearhismeat,eitherin a fit of sullenness, or under some disease; but if he be a child, hisdoggedfitwillbeover,hewillgetthemasteryofhisdistemper,andfalltohisfoodagain.

CHAPTERVII

Containingmoremarksofaregenerateperson

Secondly,Thenew-borncreaturegrowethingrace;thepictureofachildgroweth not, but a living child doth. After generation followethaugmentation;thesamewordwhichbreedsthenewman,feedshim,andenableshimtogrowthereby,1Pet.2:2.Asthesameblood,ofwhichthebabeisbredinthewomb,strikesupintothemother'sbreasts,andbya

furtherconcoctionbecomethmilk,andsonourishethit:thegoodseedofthewordfallingintothesoilofanhonestheartmakesitabundantintheworkoftheLord.Commongracesometimes,likeJoshua'ssun,standethstill; but usually, like the dial of Ahaz, it goeth ten degrees backward;whenspecialgrace,likethemorninglight,shinethbrighterandbrightertoperfectday,Prov.4:18.Firsttheblade,nexttheear,thenthefullcorn:first they who are begotten of God become little children, next youngmen,thenoldmenandfathers,1John2:1,12–14.

The unsound Christian is like the manna for the Israelites' daily use,which did corrupt and putrify; or like a pond of water which quicklydrieth up; when true Christianity, as themanna in the ark, doth keepsweet,and,asthewatersofthesanctuary,isupfirsttotheankles,thentotheknees,thentotheloins,andatlastbecameariversodeepthatnonecouldpassoverit,Ezek.47:3–5.

Ifgracebetrue,thereisanaturaltendencyinittogrowth,asthereisinseedcastintotheearth.Thereisvirtuallyinalittleplantthebignessandheightofagreat tree, towardswhich it isputting forth itselfwithmoreandmorestrengtheveryday.Sothereisinthatseedofgrace,plantedinthesoulatconversion,virtuallythatperfectionofgracewhichChristhathappointed thatman unto, towardswhich it is putting itself forth everyday:'Hethathathcleanhands,growethstrongerandstronger,'Job17:9.'TheygofromstrengthtostrengthtilltheyappearbeforeGodinZion,'Ps.84. This river of living waters runneth along, notwithstanding manyturnings and windings, till it empty itself into the ocean, and gracecommenceglory.

The grainofmustard seed groweth into a tree, and the smoking flax isblownintoaflame.Theleastsparkoftrueholinesscannotbeputoutbyalltheblastofmenanddevils;butwill,likethecoal-fire,waxthehotterforthewatersofopposition,andneverleaveaspiringtillitbejoined,andbecomeapureandperfectflame.

Hewasnevergoodmanthatmendsnot,saiththatholybishop;forifhewere good he must needs desire to be better. Grace is so sweet, thatwhoevertastesofitmustneedslongaftermore;andifhedesireit,hewillendeavour it;andIfhedobutendeavour,Godwill crownwithsuccess.

God'sfamilyadmittethofnodwarfswhichareunthrivingandstandatastay,butmenofmeasures.Whateverbecomeofmybodyormyestate,Iwilleverlabourtofindsomewhataddedtothestatureofmysoul.

ThechildrenofGodare thereforecompared to treeswhichare thrivingandprofitable:astothefruitfulvine,thefatolive,theseasonablesaplingplantedbytheriversofwaters, forheabideth inChrist;andwhosoeverabidethinhimbringethforthfruit,John15:4.Thebranchwhichseemethtobelongtothevine,byhangingonit,yetisdead,willwitherandperish;but that which is alive in the vine will partake of its sap, and therebythriveandflourish.

IndeedallChrist'sscholarsarenotofthesameform.Allgraciousmenarenot of the same growth. As in the natural body some parts havemorebeauty and strength thanothers, so in themystical bodyofChrist, onemembermay bemore eminent in spiritual strength than another. Goddoth not give grace as he didmanna, by the homer; one star differethfromanother inglory;but thoughall thechildrenofGodarenotof thesamestrengthandstature,yettheyareallthrivingchildren;and,assomewriteofthecrocodile,theygrowwhiletheylive.Asallpiecesoflandarenotalikefruitful,somebringforththirty,somesixty,someanhundred-fold; but all the good grounds are fruitful, and return the seed withadvantage;everyonebringethforthsomefruit.

Itisconfessed,also,thatatrueChristiandothnotgrowatalltimesalike.A violent windmay force those waves for some time backward, whosenaturalmotionisforward.Nature'sretractionofitselffromavisiblefear,upon a sensible danger,maymake the pulse of a Christian, that beatstrulyandstronglyinthemainpoint,thestateofthesoul,tointermitandfaulter at such a time. Peter was far from thrivingwhen he denied hisMaster,firstwithbarewords,andthenwithcursesandoaths;andsowasDavid from growing, when he first commits adultery in person, andafterwards murder by a proxy. But mark, as children under a fit ofsicknessgrownotatpresent,butaftertheirrecoveryshootupthemoreforit;andastreesstandatastayinwinter,butinspringshootforthtopurpose; so the child of God, though hemay have his declensions, yetafterwardsherecovershimself,andhisdistemperbeingremoved,hefallsto his food, and gets strength apace; nay, the greater his fall was, the

greaterhisrise; the lowertheebbanddecrease, thehigherthetideandincrease; as we see in Peter, who though he denied Christ out ofcowardice, came afterwards to own him with courage, and that to theloss,notonlyofhisliberty,buthisverylife.AndDavid,whocouldonceimbruehishandsinanotherman'sblood,wouldnotafterwardsdrinkofthatwater,thefetchingofwhichhadbutendangeredblood.

Reader,howdostthoufindthinehearttothriveinholiness?Dostthou,likeadeadstakeinahedge,grow,butitiseverydaymorerotten?ordostthou,likealivingtree,growbiggerandbetter,extendinginthebranches,andincreasinginfruit,fromthesapwhichthouderivestfromChristthyroot?ArtthoulikethoseseducerswhichPaulspeaksof,thatgrowworseandworse,likeacarcase,moreunsavouryeveryhourthanother?ordostthou,likethemoon,alwaysincreaseinthelightofpurity,tillthoucometo the fullofglory?Art thoueverpressing forward towards theprizeofthe high calling of God in Christ? or dost thou slide backward with aperpetualbacksliding?Artthouoneofthemthatboasttheyarestillthesame,as loose,asdeboistasever—nochangeling,unless itbe fromonelewdcompany,orloosecourse,toanother?likethecamelcon,thoucanstturnintoanycolourbutwhite;intoanythingbutwhatthoushouldstbe.Truly,thouartfarfromthekingdomofheaven.

Friend, letconsciencespeak,Wasthetimewiththeewhenthoucouldstnot suffer half a day to pass without duties, nor a duty withoutcommunion with God in it? thou didst constantly eithermeet God, ormissGod,inanordinance;thoucouldstnothearanoath,butthouwastsensibleofGod'sdishonour;norspeakanidleword,butthouwastfearfulof divine displeasure? God and thy soul, like two intimate friends, didwalktogether?Andisitnowotherwise?canstthouneglectprayerandtheword, and never be troubled at their want? or, if thou mind anyperformance, art thou indifferent whether or no God affords hispresence?canstthouhearotherslashoutwiththeirlips,andgivethyselflibertyforvainandfrothylanguage,yetnoneofthesethingsmovethee?O friend, considerwhence thou art fallen, and repent, and do thy firstworks;forsurelyitissadtoseethedaysgrowshorterandshorter,toseea bodywasting away every daymore andmore of a consumption.Andhowsadisittoseeasouldeclininginregardofspiritualstrength!Ifthou

fallforward,thoumayesthelpthyself;butifthoufallbackward,asoldElidid, thou mayest undo thyself; thy fall may prove thy downfall.Rememberthatavesseloftruegoldwillwearbrighterandbrightertothelast,whenacupwhichisonlygiltwillgrowpalerandpalertillallthegiltbeoff.Takeheedthoubenotlikeanapple,fairontheoutside,androttenatcore;forthenthouwiltcorruptfurtherandfurther,tillthyoutsidebelikethineinside,andGoddiscovertheetobeunsoundallover.

Thirdly, The new-born creature endeavoureth tomake others gracious.All livingcreatureshaveatendencyandinclinationtobegetothers,andpropagate their own kind. Adam,when polluted, begets a son after hisimage;truly,sodoththeChristian,inhisdesiresandendeavours,assoonas he is purified. No sanctified soul did ever make a monopoly of hisSaviour; like the wall, he receiveth warmth from the Sun ofrighteousness,andreflectethitonthemthatarenearhim.

Ahypocrite,whichhathnotruegracehimself,carethnothowlittleothershave.He is like a dead coal,whatever benighhim is neverwarmedorquickenedbyhim;butthesinceresoulwisheththatallwerealtogetherasheis,and,asalivecoal,hekindlethothers.

Allgoodisdiffusiveofitself,andthemoreofgoodnessinany,themoreofdiffusiveness.IfPeterbeconverted,hewillstrengthenhisbrethren;ifDavid be reduced, he will teach sinners God's ways. None are moredesirousofchildrenthantheywhohaveGodfortheirfather.

ThetrueChristian,thathathtastedGodtobegracious,andfoundgoodentertainment at his table, cannot but commend his house-keeping toothers,andadvisethemtoacceptofthesamecheer.

Asthesunrefreshethmanywithhiswarmrays,especiallythemthatarenear it, sodoth the saintbenefitmanybyhis ferventprayers for them,occasional counsels and constant pattern to them, but especially thosethatareofhisownfamily.Thereindeedarehismostcherishingbeams,andenlivening influences.Ohhowdiligent ishe that theKingof saintsmay have his throne in every heart within his house! Like the bee, hegoeth to the flower of this duty, and to the flower of that ordinance,suckingsomehoney,somesoul-sweetness,andthencarriethallhometo

his hive, to his family. He will study and strive that his cottage maybecomeachurch,hishouseGod's lesserheaven. It isamercy tobehiswife,hewill labourthatChristmaybeherhusband;it isahappinesstobe his children, hewill endeavour thatGodmay be their father; it is aprivilegetobehisservant,hewilldohisutmostthatsuchmaybeheirsofsalvation.Hishouseisahealthfulairforthesoulsofotherstobreathein.

Grace, like fire, cannot be hid; youmay as soon concealmusk in yourhandasgraceinyourheart.Theturningofasinnerfromeviltogood,islike the turning of a bell from one side to another,which reporteth itsownmotion.The convert is resolved, asElijah, to shewhimself; and inthis among the rest, inbringingmore customers to that shopwherehehadsuchcheapandkindusage.

Thedevilwasnosoonerfallenbuthelabouredtodrawmantothesamewickednessandwretchednesswithhimself;thedeadinsinarenosoonerraised to spiritual life but they endeavour to draw others to the sameholinessandhappinesswiththemselves. 'ThesethingsIwriteuntoyou,thatyemayhave fellowshipwithus;and trulyour fellowship,'which istheonlygoodfellowship,'iswiththeFather,andJesusChristtheSon,'1John1:3.

ThechildofGodeatethnothismorselalone,butlovethcompany;heisverycovetoustomakeproselytesuntoChrist.Wehaveasaying,thathewasunworthy to be born, bywhomanother is not born. Sure I am,hemayquestionwhetherhewereeverbornagain,thatdothnotlabourthatothersmaybesoalso.

Reader, try thyself by this touchstone; art thouaheavenlymerchant toengrossspiritualcommoditiestothyself?orartthoudesirousthatothersshould sharewith thee? Is the voice of thy heart likeCain's? 'Am Imybrother'skeeper?' or likeMoses', 'WouldGod that all theLord'speoplewereprophets,andthattheLordwouldputhisSpirituponthem.'Canstthou stand by and see others lose their God, and Christ, and souls forever,andnottobeatalltroubled,sothystakesaresaved?ordostthou,withDarius, labour hard to keep poor creatures from the roaring lion?Dan.6:14;andwithAbrahamprayheartilythatpoorSodomitesmaybepreserved from fire and brimstone? Is it all one to thee whether thy

neighboursandrelationssinkorswim,besinnersorsaints,besavedordamned?trulythenitisasignthouartnotbornofGod;forwertthouhisson, thouwouldst endeavour, by thy prayers, pattern, and precepts, toraiseupseedtothineelderbrotherJesusChrist.

Reader, it is far from my thoughts to disown or discourage the leastdegreeofgrace.Iknowthattheembryointhewombisreckonedtowardsachild;thebreakofdayapartoftheday.Apalsy-shakinghandisatruehand, and may receive a jewel as surely, though not so steadily, asanotherhand;aweakhandof faith is a true faith, andmay receive thepearlofpriceascertain,thoughnotsocheerfully,asastrongfaith.Ifthydesiresaftertheseparticularsbesincere,andaccompaniedwithsuitableendeavours, itwillspeakmuchforthee.Iamnotbringingthygracestothebalancetoweighthem,thatImayknowtheirquantityanddegrees,and how rich thou art; but to the touchstone, to try them, that thoumightstknowtheirqualityandtruth,whetherthouartpoorinspiritualsorpoor inspirit;whether thouartworthanythingornothing, for thineendlessestateintheotherworld.

To sumup thisuse, Iwould request thee tobe so great a friend to thyprecioussoul,astobeimpartialandfaithfulinitssearchandtrial.Lookmuchattheconstantbentandinclinationof thyheart.Oneactwillnotspeakahabit,nora fewgoodorbadmotionsaholyorevilheart.Thoumayesthavesamecogitationsofheaven,whenthyconversationisnotinheaven.Theairislight,yetnotalightsomebody,becauseitislightedbythepresenceofanother;whenthatisremoved,itisdark,asinthenight.So,ifthylightofholinessinanyoftheforementionedparticularsbeonlylikeaflashoflightning,forafit,itisasigntherootofthematterisnotinthee.Ontheotherside,thoumayestbeintherightwaytoheaven,thoughthou art sometimes stopped and hindered in thy journey. A stream orventofarivermaybetogodownward,yettherivermaybedammedupforawhile,butitwillrisehigherandhigher,andatlengthbeatdownandovercomethatwhichhinderethit;soifthetendencyofthineinwardman,itsordinaryframeandtemper,bebuttowardsGodandthedivinenature,benotdiscouraged, thoughtheremaybe themudofcorruptiontostopthestream;forthislivingwaterofgracewillbesobeatinguponit,thatitwill overpower it, and ride triumphantly over it. But be sure that thou

bring the matter in debate to an issue; by no means desist till thoubringestittosomeresult.IfSatancanbutpersuadetheeeithertodaubaboutit,(forhis,speechwillbelikethatofPetertoChrist, 'Master,pitythyself,')ortoleavethequestionstillindoubt,heknoweththatheshallspoiltheworkingofallthisphysic,beitneversogood.Iknowthatthineheartwillbeashard tobekept to itasaneel in thinehands; thereforeservethineheart,asthe judgeserveththe jurorsatanassize.First theyare sworn to be true and faithful in deciding and determining thedifference between party and party; next they hear the evidence andproofs on both sides; after that they are shut up together, and haveneitherfire,norcandle,norbread,nordrinkallowedthem,till theyareagreedontheirverdict,whichwhentheyhavedone,theybringitintothecourt, and there it is entered and recorded. 'Go thou and do likewise.'Whenthouartgotintothychamber,firstmakethinehearttoengageandpromise, before the Judge of the whole earth, that it will, through thestrength of Christ, be true and faithful in determining this weightycontroversy between God and thy soul, whether the land of promisebelong to thee or not; next let conscience be called, which is as tenthousandwitnesses,andspeakwhat itknowethof thy rightand title tothatestate,according to theknown lawsof theLord;and if thou lovestthelifeofthysoul,donotwinkuponthatwitness,orfeehimunderhand,tomakehimmince thematter, andbepartial inhis testimony.Foolishpityhereissoul-damningcruelty;buttellhimheisuponhisoath,andinthepresenceof the infiniteGod,andchargehimtospeakthetruth, thewholetruth,andnothingbutthetruth.Ohdobutgiveconscienceleavetobe faithful at this time, and it will be thy friend to eternity.When theevidence is thus examined, let nothing hinder a verdict; call upon thyheartagainandagain,whetheritberesolvedfortheeoragainstthee;tillthisbedone,givethyselfnorest;ifonedaywillnotserve,taketwo;nevergive over till it come to an issue one way or other. Of what infiniteconcernment is this to thee,when all that thou artworth for the otherworlddependethonit!Whenthouartagreedofaverdict,letitbeenteredand engrossed in the court of conscience—namely, that such a day thytitletotheinheritanceofthesaintsinlightwastriedbeforethejudgeofquickanddead;anduponafullhearingofevidenceonbothsides,suchorsuchaverdictwasbroughtin.Ifthyheartfindforthee,howmaythisfilltheewithjoy,thatthynameiswritteninthebookoflife!itmaykeep

thee steady in greatest storms, that thou art an undoubted heir to theeternalweightofglory.Whenthewatersofafflictionovertakethee,andthe devil throws his stones into them to trouble them andmake themmuddy, that thoumayest doubt and distrust thine eternal felicity, howquicklymaytheremembranceofsuchaverdictuponfullevidencesettlethem again! and how clearlymayest thou see thy sincerity, like a truediamond,sparklinggloriouslyatthebottomofthosewaters!thoumightstgather, Once in Christ, and ever in Christ; and I was once in him,thereforeIcanneverbeoutofhim.Ofriend,thyprivilegesarehighandunspeakable,andthereforethypracticesshouldbeholyandanswerable.ButIcannotstaytospeakfurthertotheehere;myworkgrowethinmyhandsalreadymuchbeyondmythoughts;yetIshallspeaktothydignityandhappinessinthesecondsubjectofconsideration,underthefirstuseof exhortation; and to thy duty and holiness in the second use ofexhortation,ifthebookswellnottoobig.

But,reader,ifthineheartfindagainstthee,thatthouartnotbornagain,whatcanstthousayforthyselfwhysentenceofeternaldeathshouldnotbeawardedandexecutedupon theeaccording to law,yea,according tothegospel?Hastthoureadthereasonsofthedoctrine,andthefirstuseofinformation,anddostthounotseetheabsolute,indispensablenecessityofregenerationinallthatwouldbesaved?HathnottheGodoftruth,asitwere,confirmeditwithanoath,'Verily,verily,Isayuntothee,thatexceptamanbebornagainhecannotseethekingdomofGod'?Canstthouthinkto make the author of this text a liar, by getting to heaven in anunregeneratecondition?Dostthoubelievethatthethoughtsofhisheartstand for ever, and the counsels of his majesty be established to allgenerations? Suppose thou shouldst die this day, (alas! how manydiseases attend thee! the feet of those that carried others to their longhomesarereadytocarrytheealso,)goodLord,whatwillbecomeoftheeforever,ever,ever?Artthouabletodwellineverlastingburnings?canstthou endure unquenchable flames? For the sake of thy precious soul,hastenoutofthisSodom,thisnaturalestate,whichwillundoubtedlybepunishedwith fire andbrimstone. For thinehelpherein I havewrittenthenextuse,which I earnestlybeseech thee,as thouwouldst leave thisworldwithcomfort,andlookintotheotherworldwithcourage,thatthougiveitthereading,—'thouknowestnotwhatanhourmaybringforth,'—

andtheLordgiveithisblessing!

CHAPTERVIII

Containinganexhortationtoendeavourafterregeneration

Thirdly,Thisdoctrinemaybeusefulbywayof exhortation, and that totwosortsofpersons.

1. To the unregenerate. If without regeneration men and women cannever obtain salvation, then it exhorteth thee, reader, if in a state ofnature, tomind and labour for this second birth, as ever thouwouldstescapetheseconddeath.DostthounotperceivebythewordofthelivingGod,thatexceptthouartconverted,thoucanstinnowiseenterintothekingdom of God? Mat. 18:3. Alas! what then is like to be thy case,shouldstthoudieinthiscondition?Assurethyselfthatallthyfriendsandlands,honoursandpleasures,yea,allthehelpwhichthiswholeworldcanaffordthee,cannotkeeptheeonequarterofanhouroutofhell.

Thislaw,thisstandinglawofheaven,thatexceptamanbebornagain,hecannotseethekingdomofGod,islikethelawoftheMedesandPersians,whichcannotbealtered.Bytheirlaw,thatwhichwaswrittenintheking'sname,andsealedwiththeking'sseal,mightnomanreverse,Esther8:8.Friend,isnotthiswritten,notonlyinthename,butwiththeveryhandoftheKingofkings,'Isayuntothee,'andsealedwithhisownseal,'Verily,verily'?anddostthouthink,poorworm,toreverseit,toturnthetruthoftheeternalGodintoalie?Itellthee,andIwouldspeakitwithreverencetothehighestMajesty,thatGodhimselfcannotdoit.Itishisperfection,that it is impossible forhimto lie,Titus1:2.Hishandcannotbutmakegood what his mouth hath spoken. His will and word have joinedregeneration and salvation together, and his faithfulness and truthwillnot suffer them to be parted asunder. Therefore think of it timely, andturn to God truly, otherwise there is a necessity of thy perishingeverlastingly.

Thoudostnotknow,asstrongandlustyasthouart,howsoondeathmaycome behind thee, and throw thee; and oh it will be thine eternaloverthrow; though, as on Sodom, thy morning be sunshiny, yet thoucanst not tell how soon it may overcast; nay, it may be followed withflakesoffirebeforenight.SureIam,thatGodhathgiventheenoleaseofthylife,andthatothershavediedofthesameageandlikelinesstolive;and why thou shouldst promise thyself a privilege beyond others, thatthou shalt live longer, I knowno reason,unless this, that thedevil andthineownhearthave conspired together tomurder thy soul,bygettingtheetofutureandputoffthyconversiontillthoucomesttohellfire,andthenthyruinwillbepastremedy.SupposethesamevoiceshouldcometotheewhichdidtoHezekiah,'Setthinehouseinorder,forthoushaltdie,andnotlive,'meaningspeedily,whatwouldstthoudo?Thyhouseisnotin order, thy soul, man, is all out of order, and therefore death wouldcometothee,asAbijahtoJeroboam'swife,withheavytidings,withsuchnews asSamuel brought toEli,whichwillmake thy ears to tingle, andthinehearttotremble.Ah,howwillhedotodie,thatneverknewhowtolive?Theblackusherofdeathwillgobefore,andtheflamingfireofhellwill followafter.DidstthoubutbelievethewordofGodasmuchasthedevilsdo,thoucouldstneverdepartthislifeinthywits,whohastnotledthylifeaccordingtoGod'swill.

Onewouldthinkthenoiseofthismurderingpiece,ofthisgreatcannon,death, though it should not be very near thee, might awaken andaffrighten thee;when thatdelugeofwrath cometh, that the fountainoffuryfrombelowisbrokenup,andtheflakesoffirefromaboveareraineddown, thouhastno ark,nopromise, noChrist to shelter thyself in; forregeneration is the plank cast out by God himself to save the sinkingsinner,bybringinghimtotheLordJesus;andthouwantestit.Dostthounotseethatthysentenceofdeath,ifthoucontinuestso,isalreadypassedin the high court of heaven, entered and engrossed in the book ofScripture? and God knoweth how soon the word of commandmay begiventosomediseaseforthyexecution.

Whatcomfort,therefore,canstthoutakeinallthecreatures,whilethouwantest this new creation? It is reported of Xerxes, the greatest of thePersianmonarchs,thatwhentheGrecianshadtakenfromhimSardis,a

famouscity inAsia theLess,hecommandedoneeverydayatdinnertocrybeforehimwithaloudvoice,Sardisislost,Sardisislost.Itseemstomethatthouhastfarmorecausetohaveafriendwithout,orconsciencewithin,tobethymonitor,everydayandeverymealtosoundinthyears,Friend,thysoulislost,thysoulislost.

Certainly, such a voicemightmar thy greatestmirth, sauce every dishwithsorrow,make thymostdelicatemeatamedicine,and thysweetestdrinkdistasteful to thee.Oh,didst thoubutknowwhat it is to lose thysoul,thyGod,thyChrist,thineheaven,andallforever,thouwouldstinthenightbescaredwithdreamsandvisions,and inthedaybe frightedwithfearsandterrors.

When Uriah was bid by David to go down to his house and refreshhimself,heanswered,'Theark,andIsrael,andJudahabideintents;andmy lord Joab, and the servants ofmy lord, are encamped in the openfields;shallIthengointominehouse,toeatanddrink,andliewithmywife?asthoulivest,andasthysoulliveth,Iwillnotdothisthing,'2Sam.11:11. Mark, the good man could take no pleasure in relations orpossessions,because thenatural livesofotherswere indanger;nay,heforswearstheuseof thosecomforts forthatverycause.Howthencanstthou solace thyselfwith lyingvanities,when thine eternal life is,not injeopardy,butlostreally,andthoucanstnotassurethyselfonedayforitsrecovery!

Shouldstthouseeacondemnedprisoner,whichknowethnotwhetherheshall be hanged on themorrow, or the day after, hawking or hunting,sprucinghimself,orsportingwithhis jovialcompanions,whatthoughtswouldst thou have of such aman? wouldst thou not think, surely thisman is mad or desperate! were he not beside himself, he wouldmindsomewhat else, sincehe is sonearhis end.But, friend, turn thine eyesinward, and see whether there is not infinitely more reason why thoushouldstwonderatthineownfollyandmadness,whoartbythewordofthedreadfulGodcondemned,nottobehanged,buttobedamned;nottothegallows,buttotheunquenchablefire,andcanstnottellwhetherthisnight, or to-morrowmorning justice shall be done upon thee, and yetthouartbuyingandselling,eatinganddrinking,pamperingtheperishingbody,nevermindingorthinkingwhatshallbecomeofthypoorprecious

soultoeternity!

Thewiseman'sadvice is, that if thouart indebtedtomen,andliabletotheirarrestandimprisonment,thoushouldstnotgivesleeptothineeyesnorslumbertothineeyelidsbeforethouhastmadethypeace,Prov.6:1–4.Whatspeedshouldstthouthenuse,whenthouartinfinitelyindebtedtotheAlmightyGod,(athismercyeverymoment,liablecontinuallytobearrestedbythatsurlysergeantdeath,andbyhimtobehurriedintothedarkprisonofhell,) toagreewith thineadversarywhile thouart in theway; and to get theblack linesof thy sins crossedwith the red linesofChrist's blood, and so for ever blotted out of the book of God'sremembrance!AsthechamberlainofoneofthePersianprincesusedtosaytohimeverymorning,Arise,mylord,andhaveregardtotheweightyaffairs for which the great Godwould have you to provide; so say I tothee,Awake,Oman, out of thy carnal security, andhave regard to thegreatend forwhich thouwastborn,and thegreaterrand forwhich thegreatGodhathsenttheeintotheworld.

Reader, that thou mightst avoid the endless woe of the damned, andattain the matchless weal of the saved, I shall do two things in theprosecutionofthisexhortation.Ishallbothgivetheesomehelpstowardsregeneration,andremovesomehindrances.

First, I shall offer thee three helps unto holiness, and thereby untoheaven.

Secondly,Ishallanswerthreeobjectionswhichprobablymayariseinthyheart.

If thou hast any real desire after thine eternal welfare, ponder themseriously, and practise them faithfully, and the good Lord make themsuccessful! Oh how happy might it be for thee if the getting of aregeneratenaturewerethemaintaskofthywholetime!believeit,thouwilthavenocausetorepentofit.

Forthehelpstowardsregeneration,andtherebytowardssalvation.

CHAPTERIX

Thefirsthelptoregeneration,seriousconsideration

1.ThefirsthelpwhichIshalloffertheeis,seriousconsideration.Hethatgoeth inawrongpath,andneverthinkethof it,willnotreturnback,orturnabout, though the fartherhegoeth thegreater ishisdeviationanddanger. A serious consideration of the evil and end of thy way were acheap prevention of eternal and endless woe. Observe, I say,consideration; consideration is an act of the practical understanding,whereby it reflecteth upon its actions and intentions, and comparingthemwiththeruleoftheword,proceedethtolayitscommanduponthewillandaffectionstoputwhatisgoodinexecution.

Thiswashintedbychewingthecudunderthelaw,andthebeastswhichdidnotwereunclean; and indeed it is the excellency of amanabove abeast that hemay, in a rational discursivemanner,meditate on thingsthat concern his salvation, and, by chewing the cud, get somenourishmenttohissoul.ItisaponderingthesayingsofChrist,Luke2:19.It is to the soulwhat digestion is to the body; it is not the quantity ofmeat, but a good digestion, which nourisheth and strengtheneth thebody.Fortheywhicheatmuchandcannotdigestit,insteadofrepairing,theyruinnature.SoitisnotthegreatknowledgeofthetruthsofGod,butthe serious consideration and practical application of them, whichnourishethandstrengthenedthesoul.Withoutthis,men'sknowledge,beitneversomuch,isbutlikeraininthemiddleregion,orfireintheflint,unprofitable,andtonopurposeatall.

Isay,seriousconsideration;thethoughtsmustdwellupondivineweightytruths.Surelymen,iftheyshoulddothus,wouldundoalltheyhavedone;butwhenthethoughtsofGodandChrist,andsinandholiness,deathandjudgment, heaven and hell, pass speedily through them, as travellersthrough a country,making no stay, no wonder if they cannot give anyaccountof theworthandvirtueof them.It isnot thehastyshower,butsoft snow, which soaks deep; whilst the former goeth off as fast as itcomeson,thelattergentlycreepsintoeverychinkoftheground.

It is with the truths of God as with a salve; if a man have never soprecious a salve, which will help a dangerous mortal wound in twelvehours, andhedonothingbut lay theplaster,which is spreadwith thissalve, on the wound, and take it off presently, it will never heal thewound;ifeveriteatoutthecorruptionandcurethesore,itmustlieonsome considerable time together; the best salve under heaven will nototherwisedothewoundedmangood.Soifamanturnhisthoughtsuponthe loathsome nature of sin; the unspeakable danger of sinners; themisery thathe is liable towhilsthecontinuescarnal; themercy thathemightobtainifhewerespiritual;theall-sufficiencyofGod;theexcellencyofgodliness;thepurchaseofChrist;andthepromisesofthegospel;everyofwhichisapreciousmedicinetocuresoulmaladies;yetifhisthoughtsdonotstayuponthem,iftheyareonlyglancingthoughts,offandon,likelightning flashing on the conscience and away, theywill never heal thyspiritual diseases. That messenger which would despatch business ofweightandconcernmentmustnotcallatadoorandthenbegone,buthemustgoin,sitdown,andmakesomestaythere.

Thisseriousconsideration,friend,Ipropoundtotheeanexcellentreceiptfor the recovery of thy dying soul. 'I consideredmyways,' saithDavid,'andturnedmyfeetuntothytestimonies,'Ps.119:59.Sometranslatetheoriginal,I lookedonbothsidesuponmyways,Iconsideredthemeveryway, 'and turnedmy feetunto thy testimonies.' I considered that Iwaswanderinglikealostsheep,andthenIreturned.

Conversion beginneth at consideration: 'Because he considereth, andturneth from all the transgressions which he hath committed, he shallsurelylive,heshallnotdie,'Ezek.18:28.Themarinerwhoisrunninghisvesselagainstarock,ifheconsiderit,andsteeranothercourse,hedoththerebypreventadesperateshipwreck.

When David would stop the enemies of God in their full career ofwickedness,he layeththisblock intheirway, 'Communewithyourownhearts, andbe still,'Ps.4:4.Self-communion isone specialhelp to sin-confusionandsoundconversion.Theprodigalcametohimselfbeforehecametohisfather.Heconsideredwhatafoolhewastofeedwithswineupon husks, when he might eat bread as in his father's house; heconsideredwhatamadmanhewastofeedontheshortcommonsofthe

world, and endure the slavery of the devil,whenhemight feast on theexceedings of the gospel, and enjoy the liberty of the children of God.Afterthisseriousconsiderationhecomethtothissolidresolution,'Iwillarise and go tomy father,' Luke 15:17, and accordingly went, and waswelcome.

Truly,reader,itisinconsideratenessthatdothbothdefiletheeanddamnthee;thewantofconsiderationcausethmentoaboundinsin.

'The people committed falsehood; the thief cometh in, the troop ofrobbersspoilethwithout,'Hosea7:1.Therewasgroundfullofweeds;butmark,thereasonwas,becauseitlayfallow;itwasnotploughedupwithconsideration.'TheyconsidernotintheirheartsthatIrememberalltheirwickedness,' ver. 2. They consider not that I remember and record alltheir omissions, commissions, the corruptions of their hearts,transgressionsoftheirlives,andwritethemdownwithapenofironandpoint of a diamond, Jer. 17:1, and will bring them forth in the day ofslaughter. As the foolish bird Pliny speaks of, called struthiocamelus,which thrustsherhead intoa thicket, conceiving thatnobodyseethherbecause she seethnobody, and so becomes a prey to the fowler; so theadulterer, the thief, the drunkard, and the like, consider not that Godseeth them plainly, hateth their sins perfectly, can turn them into hellpresently; and therebybecomebold inwickedness; theyhideGod fromthemselves,andthinkthattheyarehiddenfromGod.'Theyconsidernotintheirheartsthatherememberethalltheirwickedness.'

Friend,whenthouseestamaninafrenzy,oroneinbedlam,tearingtheirhair,bitingandcutting theirown flesh,whatdost thousay?Surely thisman wanteth the use of his reason; could he but use that, withoutquestionhewouldneverdothus.Maynotagraciousmanthatbeholdeththee tearing, lancing, stabbing, and wounding thy precious soul withworldliness,swearing,atheism,oruncleanness,uponasgoodgroundsay,Surely this man wanteth consideration; did he but consider what ajealousGodheprovoketh,whatbowelsoflovehespurnethat,whatahellof sorrowheprovideth forhis longhome,hewouldneverdo thus!Theostrich leavethhereggs in thedust,notconsidering that the feetof thepassengerwill crush themtopieces,becauseshe isdeprivedofwisdomandwantethunderstanding,Job39:14,15,17.Thesinnerleavethhissoul

naked, and liable to all dangers imaginable, because he is void of truewisdom, and livethwithout this serious consideration, Isa. 1:2–5. Theyconsider not the conclusion, and therefore are confident in thecommissionofsin.'Theyconsidernottheirlastend,thereforetheycomedownmightily,'Lam.1:9.

Adivinewritethwell,howsubtleSatanistohindermen'sconsideration.Satan, saithhe, isvery jealousof the sinner,afraideveryChristian thatspeakstohim,orordinanceshehears,shouldinveiglehim;byhisgood-willheshouldcomeatneither.No,norhaveathoughtofheavenorhell,fromoneendof theweek to theother;and thathemayhaveas fewasmay be, he keepeth him full-handed with his work. The sinner isgrinding,andheisfillingthehopper,thatthemillmaynotstandstill.Heiswiththesinnerassoonashewakes,andfillshiswretchedheartwithsomewickedthoughts,whichasamorningdraughtmaykeephimfromtheinfectionofanysavourofgoodthatmaybebreathedonhimbyothersintheday-time.Allthedaylonghewatchethhim,asthemasterwoulddohisman,thathefearswillrunaway.Andatnight,likeacarefuljailer,helockshimupagaininhischamber,withmoreboltsandfettersuponhim,notsufferinghimtosleepashe liethonhisbed,tillhehathdonesomemischief. Ah, poorwretch,was ever slave so looked to? As long as thedevilcankeeptheethus,thouarthisownsureenough.

Now, as that father said of the gospel, that itmust needs be excellent,becauseNeroprosecuteditwithsomuchviolence;sothisconsiderationmust needs be an excellent help to holiness, because the devil dothprosecuteitwithsuchimplacablehatred;ifhecankeepthisdoorofthysoulshut,hefearethnotChrist'sentranceintothyheart.Ihavesometimereadof a religious father, thathadadeboist lewdson, thatwasagreatgrieftohim;whenthefatherwasonhisdeath-bed,hemadethissontopromisehimthathewouldbeeverydayofhislifehalfanhouralonebyhimself.Theson,makingsomeconscienceofhissolemnengagementtohisdyingfather,usedafterwardstoretirehimselfdailyforthatspaceoftime,whereat firsthebusiedhimselfvainly, inthinkingof thehonoursanddelightsoftheworld;butafterwardshebegantoconsiderwhatendhisfatherhadinbindinghimtosuchretiredness,andthenthoughtofhisown folly, in wandering from God, and embracing a dying and lying

world;andtheSpiritstrikinginwiththosemeditations,hebecameanewman.Ohthat,reader,thouwouldstgoanddoashedid!Isitnotaneasyremedy?IfGodshouldrequiretenhourseverydaytobespentinsecret,about thy soul and salvation, I profess to thee I know not how thoucouldst spend thy time better, or so well. I am sure it were worth thewhile. O friend, to be amongst devils in everlasting torments, or withChrist in everlasting pleasures, are other manner of things than thoucanstimagine;butIdorequestofthee,onthebehalfofGodandthysoul,but one half-hour every day, that thou wouldst retire thyself into thychamber, or closet;—the beautiful bridegroom is bashful, and comethseldomtohischurch,Cant.4:11,oranyChristianinacrowd;—andthereconsiderseriouslyofsomethingswhichIshallfromtheLordpropoundto thee. Let not the cheapness of the receiptmake thee refuse it; thouseest sometimes that simpleherbs, that grow in our owngardens, curethose distempers which costly drugs fetched from far cannot. As thegeneral'sservantsaidtohim,whenheragedandfrettedatthecounseloftheprophet for the cure of his leprosy: 'If the prophet hadbid theedosomegreatthing,wouldstthounothavedoneit?howmuchratherwhenhesaith,Wash,andbeclean,'2Kings5:13;sosay I to thee, if I shouldrequestmoretime inaday, if Ishoulddesire fargreater thingsof thee,forthekillingofthatleprosy,whichotherwisewillkillthee,wouldstthounotdoit?Ah,didstthoubutknowthepriceofaChrist,thouwouldstsellall tobuy thatpearl;didst thoubutknowthewrathofa just,holy,andinfiniteGod, thouwouldstdoanything,all thingspossible, toescape it.HowmuchratherwhenIdesireonlyonehalf-hour inaday forseriousconsideration.Ifthouwiltnotdoitfortheavoidingofhell,dostthounotdeservetoburnforever.Thinkofit,reader,whoeverthouart,Iamveryloath to leave thee before I have prevailed with thee; dost thou notsquander away many an hour vainly, nay, sinfully, in working out thydamnation?andwilt thounot spareonehalf-hour inaday toworkoutthy salvation in?Howmany yearshast thou spent in the service of thybrutishflesh?andishalfanhourinaday,whenthouartnotsuretoliveaweek, toomuch for thine angelical spirit?What sayest thou?wilt thoupromise thy Maker and Redeemer that thou wilt do this? whoseadvantageisitliketobe;thineormine?'Ifthouartwise,thouartwiseforthyself;butifthouartascorner,thoualoneshaltsuffer,'Prov.9:12.Well,if thouwilt not grantme this little time, thou art like to grieve for thy

refusaleternally.AndtrulyifthouwilthearGodinthis,Ihavehopesthathewillheartheeinfargreater:'Setthineheart,therefore,toallthewordswhichIspeakuntotheethisday,foritisnotavainthing,butitisforthylife,'Deut.32:46,47.

Ishall,uponpresumptionthatthouwiltforthysoul'ssakeusethatcheaphelp of consideration, assist thee, by laying down five particulars, assubjects of thymost serious thoughts; and I knownot oneof thembuthath such weight, that when thou art considering, if the blessed Godvouchsafeameeting,itmaydothework.

CHAPTERX

Thefirstsubjectofconsideration,themiseryoftheunregenerateinthisworld

First,Considerthemiserywhichthouliestunder,orartliableto,whilstthouartunregenerate.

AndwereIbutabletochargeanddischargethisgreatgunfully,itmightprobablyfiretheeoutofallthysinfulholds,andforcetheetoseekuntoChrist forhelp.Butas theRomansaidofhis fellow-citizen, thathewasbeyondallexpressionswicked;somayIsayofthee,thatthouartbeyondnot only all expressions, but all conceptions,wretched.No ink is blackenoughtodescribethosedismalcloudsoffuryunderwhichthoulivestinthisworld.Butoh,whattonguecantellthethousandthpartofthosefierytormentstowhichthouartliableintheotherworld!

Whilethoulivestthouartacursedsinner;andwhenthoudiestthoushaltbeadamnedcreature.

While thou livest thou art a cursed sinner; that roll of curses twentycubits long, and ten cubits broad, is thy right, Zech. 5:4. Thou art abreakerof the law,andoutofChrist,andthereforeanheirof thecurseandwrathoftheLord.

The curse of God hangs every moment over thine head; like a blood-hound, it followeth thee wherever thou goest; as thy shadow, itaccompanieth thee whatever thou dost; thou art continually under thedroppings and spouts of the Almighty God's indignation, and canst assoonflyfromthyselfasfromit,tillthouartregenerated.

Thou art cursed in all thou hast. Whether they are natural, civil, orspiritualenjoyments,theyareallcursedtothee.

For thy natural parts, thywit,memory, knowledge, head, heart, are allcursedtothee.TheyareemployedintheserviceofSatan,andwiththemthou fightest against God and thy soul. As Jehu against hismaster, sothou marchest furiously against thy Maker with his own soldiers. Thymemory is Satan's treasury, thywill an agent for hell, thy carnalmindenmity against God: the handmaids of thy affections, like Hagar, crowover theirmistress,andmakeeventhyreasonaslaveand lackey to thysensuallusts;allthynaturalendowmentsareSatan'sornaments.Andasthemoresharpandkeentheweaponis,themoremischiefthemurdererdothwith it; so themorewitty thou art, themorewicked thou art, thywisdombeing'frombelow,earthly,sensual,devilish,'James3:15.

For thycivil advantages, thywealth, credit,house,delights, friends,areall cursed to thee. Thy richesmake thee the greater rebel, and therebyfurther thine eternal ruin. Thy fulness breeds forgetfulness.Where therichestminesare,theearthismostbarren.Thywealthislikefueltofeedthywantonness.

Thinehonour,likewind,puffethupthebladderofthineemptyheartwithpride.ThemoreGodlifteththeeup,themorethoucastesthimdown;therespectfulbreathof thyneighboursdothbutblowthevesselof thysoultowardshell.

Thy pleasures are prejudicial to thy precious soul. Like thewasp, thoudrownest thyself in thosepotsofhoney;andas thesilly fish, swimmestmerrilydownthesilverstreamsofJordan,tillthoufallest intothedeadseaandperishest.

Thyrelationsandfriends, ifwicked,arecursedtothee; theybreatheon

thee, and thou takest the infection, wanting this preservative ofregeneration.TheyareactuallywhatMichalwas toDavid, intentionallyinregardofSaul,snaresuntothee.

Thyhouseiscursed:'ThecurseoftheLordisinthehouseofthewicked,'Prov.3:33.Whatevercostbethere,therecanbenotruecheer,forthereisGod's curse, whichmars all; this will either rot the timber, and pull itdown,orunderminethefoundation,andblowitup.Possiblytheremaybe in thine house a loving wife, lovely children,many servants, statelyrooms,costlyfurniture,daintyfare,greatearthlydelights:but,man,thecurseofGod is there.Aspoonfulof this, likecopperas,will turnall thywine into ink; thy sea of honey into gall andwormwood.How can thysweetestdishbesavoury,whenthecurseofGodisthysauce?Orthymostsugaredcupbepleasant,whenthecurseofGodlieth,likeatoad,swelledatthebottom?orthyfinestraimentdelightthee,whenineverysuitthereis the curse of God, like a plague-sore? or how can thymost beautifulbuildingcontentthee,whenthiscurseofGodontheeforthywickednessturnsitintoaprisontokeepthee,whoartinthebondofiniquity,tillthehourofdeath,thetimeofthineexecution?

Thereisaplacewhichsomespeakof intheWestIndies,wherethereisextraordinarylusciousfruitgrowing,buttheinhabitantsaresoscorchedwiththeheatofthesunbyday,andmultitudeofgnatsstingingthembynight, that they cannot either eat or digest their sweetmeats with anycomfort; for which cause the Spaniards call the place, comfits in hell.Reader, what delight canst thou take in thy table, though it be spreadwith various earthly enjoyments,when every dish is served inwith thescorchingwrathofGod,andstingingsofaguiltyconscience?Asafeasttohimthatsatunderanakedsword,aswinetoacondemnedmalefactor,asDives'dishesfollowedwiththeunquenchablefire,soareallthecomfortsofthisinferiorcreationtoanunregenerateperson.

Thouartacursetothychildren.Itisilltohaverelationtothee,whoartunder the indignation of God: 'The seed of evildoers shall never berenowned,' Isa. 14:20; so Job 5:3, 4. If thy children are good, thou arttheirgrief; ifwicked,thouwiltmakethemworse.Thebestofthemmaysmart temporally for thine iniquities.Whenthebodyof the tree falleth,thebranches fallwith it,Exod.20:5;andohhowmuchmore is it tobe

fearedthatthouwiltdrawthemaftertheebothtosinandhell!

It is not safe to be thy neighbour. If it be ill to dwell near himwhosehouseisonfire,surelyitisnotgoodtobenighhimwhoisunderGod'sfury.Whenanoverflowingstormsweepethawaythewicked,thetailofitmay dash at their best neighbours. Though they shall not perish withthee,yettheymaysmartforthee.

Thynameiscursed:'Thenameofthewickedshallrot,'Prov.10:7.Thoumayestbehonourableintheesteemofthygracelessneighbours,butthouartcontemptibleintheaccountofChristandhismembers;andwheneverthoudiest,thouwiltgooutlikeacandle, leavingbehindtheeastinkingsavourinthenostrilsofthesaints.

Thycalling,whateveritbe,iscursed;thineearthlyemploymentprovesaheavenly impediment: 'Thou art cursed in the city, and cursed in thefield;cursedinthybasket,andcursedinthystore;cursedinthefruitofthybodyandthefruitofthyland,andincreaseofthykine,andflocksofthysheep;cursedwhenthoucomestin,andcursedwhenthougoestout.TheLordwill sendupon thee cursing, vexation, and rebuke, in all thatthousettestthinehandunto,untilthoubedestroyedandperishquickly,becauseofthewickednessofthydoings,wherebythouhastforsakentheLord,'Deut.28init.etpertot.

Asthynaturalpartsandciviladvantages,soalsothyspiritualprivilegesare cursed to thee, till thou turnest from sin. Thou enjoyest sermons,sacraments, Sabbaths, seasons of grace, and, like the spider, suckestpoisonoutof thosesweet flowers.Roses,somesay,killhorse-flies. Is itnot sad that those precious mercies should hasten and increase thymisery!Thineunregeneracy, like somedesperatedisease, turneth thosemedicineswhich are administered to cure it, into thenourishment andconfirmationofthesicknessitself;thewordofGodisthesavourofdeathunto death unto thee, 2Cor. 2:16. Thou surfeitest of that bread of life,thanwhichnosurfeitismoredangerous;thougrowestblackandwanzyinthesunshineofthegospel;thetableoftheLordistotheethetableofdevils; the leaven of thy unregeneracy turneth that passover intopollution;Christhimselfisastoneofstumbling,andarockofoffence,1Pet.2:8.ThisSunofrighteousness,whichthesoundeyeoftheregenerate

beholdswithmuchpleasure,isnotbeheldbythysoreeyeswithoutmuchpain. The Red Sea of his blood, through which the true Israelites passsafely into the celestial Canaan, is destruction to thee, being anuncircumcised Egyptian: 'The very grace of God is turned by thee intowantonness,'Jude4.

Thoumakest sour vinegar of that sweetwine, andmakest use of thosegalestohelptheetohell,whichweresenttohelptheetoheaven: 'Untothee who art unbelieving and defiled is nothing pure,' Tit. 1:15. As theearthhaththegreatestcoldinthebottomofitwhenthesunshinethonitwiththegreatestheattoqualifyit;soisthineheartdeadandcoldunderallthewarminfluencesofordinances.

What a dreadful condition art thou in, that those privileges which arechoiceblessingstoothersshouldbecursedtothee,andgreatenboththysinandsuffering!Thefruitofthosetreeswhichstandinthesun,growethgreaterthanof thosewhichgrowintheshade;sodothysinsunderthegospel of Christ wax greater than those which want it, Mat. 11:21–23;Heb.10:28,29.

And as these sacred advantages increase thy corruption, so also thydestruction. When the physic which should remove the distemper co-operates with it, it brings death with the more speed and pain. Nocreaturemore terrible than fire, andno fire so terrible as thatwhich istakenfromthealtar:'Takefirefromthealtar,andscatteritoverthecity,'Ezek. 10:2. They thought the fire of the altar had been only for theexpiationofsin,butGodmakesthemknowthatitwasforthedesolationoftheircity.

But thou art not only cursed in what thou hast, but also in what thoudost.

All thine actions, whether inward or outward, whether worldly orreligious, are all sinful and cursed. Like the leper under the law, thoutaintestwhateverthoutouchest,andmakestitunclean.Thythoughts,thefirst-bornofthysoul,andthypurestoffspring,areallvain.Thineheartisasinkofsin,anoceanofcorruption;andthereforeiseversendingforthand bubbling upmire and dirt: 'The imaginations and thoughts of thy

heart are evil, only evil, and that continually,' Gen. 6:9. Thywords arewicked;theinwardwheelsofthyspiritbeingdisordered,theclockofthytonguecannotstriketrue.Theinwarddunghillreeketh,andsendethforthitsstenchmuchthisway:Rom.3:13,14,'Thymouthisfullofcursingandbitterness; the poison of asps is under thy lips; thy throat is an opensepulchre,'likeagravewhenopened,sendingforthnoisomeandstinkingexhalations.

Thycallingisnotwithoutitscorruption:'Theploughingofthewickedissin,' Prov. 21:4. Thy very eating, drinking, sleeping, buying, selling,whatever thou dost is evil. Though such actions are indifferent inthemselves—for all indifferency lieth in generals—yet, as done by theefromwickedprinciples,andforwickedends,theyarestarknaught.Nay,thy very religious actions are sinful and unacceptable to God: 'Thesacrificeof thewickedisanabominationtotheLord,'Prov.15:8.Thineincense stinks of the hand that offereth it, therefore the heart of Godcannotawaywith it, Isa. 1:13–15;and66:3.Thevesselof thineheart isnot clean, andGodwill not taste of the liquorwhich cometh out of it.Because thy person is not accepted, thy performances are all rejected:'Thouartintheflesh,andthereforecanstnotpleaseGod,'Rom.8:8.Thydutiesaredonewithoutheartorheat,andbeingdeadcarcases,withoutspirituallife,mustneedsbeunsavoury.

Thus, man, art thou miserable who art in a state of nature—thineunregenerateheartbeinglikesomefilthyfen,orassomewriteofthelakeof Sodom, which continually sendeth up poisonous vapours. Oh, intowhat dangerous dilemmas doth thine unregeneracy bring thee! If thouenjoyestthemeansofgrace,byabusingthemthouincreasestthymisery,Heb.10:28.Ifthouneglectestthem,thouleavestthyselfwithoutremedy,and perishest unavoidably, Prov. 29:18; Rom. 10:15. If thou art inprosperity,thesunshinethereofdothbutripentheeforruin,asthesunthegrape,forthewinepressoftheLord'swrath,Prov.1:31;Ps.69:22.Ifthouartinadversity,thefirethereofdothbuthardenthineheartofclay,2Chron.28:22.Thymisery,asPlutarchwritesofdrumstotigers,makeththee mad; thou frettest like one in a frenzy, 2 Kings 6:33, against theLord. If thou rejoicest, thy laughter is from the teeth, outward. Is notthine heartmany a time heavy, when thy looks are lively? Prov. 14:13.

Doth not conscience, when thou, like Belshazzar, art carousing in thycups,spreadforthahandwritingbeforethee,ablacklistofthysins,andGod's wrath, which turneth all thy mirth into mourning? At best thylaughterisbutlikecracklingofthornsunderapot,whichmakethashortblazeandbustlingnoise,andthenvanishethintosmokeandashes,Dan.5:5,6;Isa.57:21.Ifthouweepest,thytearsarepuddle-water,andsothyworldlysorrowherebutapledgeandearnestofthysufferingshereafter.If thou livest long, thouheatesthell thehotter,everyday 'treasuringupwrathuponthineheadagainstthedayofwrath,'Rom.2:5.Ifthoudiestsoon, thoumakest themorehaste tohell, takingashortcut to thy longanddolefulhome.

If thou lookest upward, thoumayest see God frowning, and his wrathrevealedfromheavenagainstthee,Rom.1:18.Thoumayestbehold,asitwere,theheavensandtheirhostreadyeverymomenttodischargeGod'scurse like a thunderbolt upon thee. If thou lookest downward, thoumayestseehellgaping,astheearthdidtoKorah,andopeningitsmouthwide,toswallowtheeupquick.Ifthoulookestwithinthee,thoumayestseeconscience,whichthouhastabused,asthePhilistinesdidSamson,byputting out its eyes, causing it to grind at the devil'smill, andmakingsportwithit,resolving,whenitshallrecover itsstrength,tobeavengedon thee, and to make thee perish, though it perish with thee. If thoulookestwithoutthee,thereisnosightbutwhatmaycalltheetosighsandsobs.If thoulookestuponthecreatures,arenottheyarmedwithstingsandmurdering instruments on the behalf of their Creator, and alwaysreadytoletflyatthee,whoartarebelagainsthisMajesty?IfthoulookestintoScriptures,thereisatablerichlyspread,whichtheythatarebornofGodsitat,withadoption,remission,peace,love,thepurchaseofChrist,the comforts of the Spirit, which thou, as the unbelieving lord,mayestsee, but shalt not so much as taste of. Thou mayest see a cherubimtherewithaflamingsword,toguardthattreeoflife,andkeeptheeoutofthat pleasant paradise.Nay, thoumayest behold there the plagues andjudgments, the pain and punishments, which the righteous Godthreatenethagainst,andwillexecuteupontheeandallinthycondition.In aword, thoumayest, as itwere, find thy very selfmentioned in theforlornhopeforhell,1Cor.6:6,9,10;Rev.21:6,7.

Whilethoulivest,thouartfedlikeabeastbyacommonprovidence,andart a mere stranger to all the saving promises. If at any time thoufingeresttheunsearchablerichesinChrist,likethericheswhichSolomonspeaksof,theymakethemselveswingsandflyawayfromthee;thougoestevery day without thy guard, being turned naked into the wide worldamongstlegionsofdevilsandsoul-damninglusts,toberentandtorninpieces, like a silly hare amongst a pack of hounds, and none to shelterthee,orcallthemoff.Manydangersattendtheeeveryday,manymiserieseverymoment.Whenthougoestoutorcomestin,liestdownorrisestup,still are those frightful hell-houndswatching for thee, andwaiting onlyfor leave from God, (oh that his long-suffering might be unto theesalvation!) to drag thy soul into the lake of fire. There is but a hair's-breadth,asitwere,betweentheeandhell.

Andoh,whenthoudiest,man,whatwilt thouthendo?Assoonas thatcaptain,death,strikesthefirststroke,wholearmiesofwoeswillfalluponthee.

Reader, I have told somewhat of thy lamentable portion in this life,thoughnonecangivetheeafullinventoryofthypersonalwretchedstate.Onewould think that every lineunder this head shouldbe as a daggerstabbingtheeat theheart,andthat if therewerenothingelsebut thesesmallguns—Icall themsocomparatively—ofmiseries in thisworld, thefearofthemshouldcausetheetofly,asthedistresseddove,tothecleftsof the rock, the wounds of a crucified Christ. But this is not all; themurdering-piece,thegreatordnance,isyetbehind.Imusthastentowriteof thymisery in theotherworld,which thou,poorwretch, thoughnowwithoutfear,yetarthasteningtofeel.

Aswhilethoulivestthouartacursedsinner,sowhenthoudiestthouartadamnedcreature.HereIconfessIshallfailmuchmorethanbefore;forno pen can describe, no pencil can delineate,—though both did it inblood, to the utmost of human wit and art,—the thousand thousandthpartof thatpainwhichthoushalt thereundergo. Ihavereadofacourtwhereitwasmadedeathtomentiondeath.Surelytheworddeathmustneeds sound dreadfully in thine ears, because, when it comes, it willstrike,andthathome.Itwillbothkilltheeanddamnthee.Itwillpartthybodyandsoulforatime,andGodandthysoultoeternity.Itwillsendthy

bodytothegrave,andthysoultohell.Thyconditionnowislamentableanddangerous;butthen,ohthen,itwillbeirrecoverableanddesperate.Thydeath's-daywillbethydoomsday,whereintheguiltyprisonerofthesoul shall be fetched out of the noisome jail of the body, and appearbeforetheJudgeofthewholeearth,andfromhimreceiveasentenceofeternaldeath, and thenbehurriedby frightfuldevils to execution. It isstoried of Charles, king of Sweden, a great enemy of the Jesuits, thatwhenhetookanyoftheircolleges,hewouldputtheyoungersortoftheminto themines,saying, thatsince theyhadwroughthardaboveground,hewouldmaketrialhowwelltheycouldworkunderground.TrulythusSatanwillservethee;whenthouhastwroughthardforhimonearth,hewillpaytheethywagesinthedarkvaultsofhell,andmaketrialhowwellthou canstwork there.Ah,whowould serve such amaster! Look to it,and remember that thou wast warned of it; for if thou diest naturallybeforethoulivestspiritually,thoudiesteternally.

Augustine's prayer was, Hackme, hewme, burnme HERE, but spareHEREAFTER.Sparemehereafter.Alas!whatwillthyconditionbe?Thouart in hell upon earth; for thou livest without God, whose graciouspresence isheaven;and inhell, afterdeath; thou shaltneverbe sparedherenorhereafter.Nowthouartacursedsinner,andthenthoushaltbeadamnedcreature.Thybestispast,andthyworsttocome,thoughthybestportionisapoorpittance,afewbrutishpleasures.

CHAPTERXI

Themiseryoftheunregenerateintheotherworld

Icomenowtothymiseryintheotherworld.

Eternaldeathwill teachtheesix lessons, thoughnowneithermercynormisery,neitherfairmeansnorfoulmeans,canprevailwiththeetolearnthem.

First,Itwillteachtheethevanityofthisworld.Thounowseestitwritten

withthefingerofGodinhisword,incapitalletters,'Vanityofvanities,allis vanity,' Eccles. 1:3, yet thouwilt not believe it. As it is reported of agentlewoman, that being told so, answered, It is true Solomon said so,but he tried theworld first, and sowill I. Thouwilt try theworld alsobeforethouwilttrusttheworld;butbeconfident,intheotherworldthouwilt findGodtruetothycost,whenthinehonour,whichnowisbutthebreathofthyneighbour,athincabinetofair,whicheveryonehathakeyto but thyself, shall be blown away;when thywealth,whichhath greateagle's wings to fly from thee here, shall not have somuch as a smallsparrow's wing to follow after thee there; and when all thy earthlycomforts, for which thou sellest thy soul and thy Saviour, shall, as thepharisees did Judas, leave thee in the greatest extremity, and bid theelooktothyself.

Then possibly thou wilt say, as Cardinal Wolsey when he was out offavourwithhisprince,andleftbyhimtotherageofhisenemies,IfIhadservedmyGodasfaithfullyasIhaveservedmyking,hewouldnothaveservedmethus;sothouwiltthink,IfIhadservedmyGodasfaithfullyasIhaveservedtheworld,hewouldnothaveservedmethus,toleavemeinmygreatestneed to the rageof scorching flames, to the furyof roaringlions,andtormentingdevils;ifIhadservedmySaviourasfaithfullyasIhaveservedmysins,Ishouldhavereceivedothermannerofpay.

Butforallthyfaithfulservicetotheworldandthyflesh,theywillforsakethee. Thoumayest then cry to the things of this world, which have somuchofthytime,andheart,andtrust,andwhichareindeedthygod,asthoseidolatersdidtotheiridol-god,OBaal,hearus;Oriches,hearme;Ofriends, hearme;Opleasures, hearme;Omerry-meetings, hearme;Orelations,hearme!Yea, if thou shouldst continue cryingnever so long,thoucouldstnothavetheleasthelp:wereitpossibleforthemtospeaktotheewhenthouartintheotherworld,itmustbethesameanswerwhichthe king of Israel gave a poorwidow inher distress; 'Helpmy lord theking,'saithshe;'IftheLordhelpnot,Icannothelp,'saiththeking;suchwouldtheiranswerbetothee,IftheLordhelpnot,wecannothelp.But,friend, what will thy case be when they cannot help, and Godwill nothelp!whatapoorhelplesscreaturewiltthoubeforever!

Secondly, Itwill teach thee the severityof theLord.Nowpossibly thou

knowestwhatthepainoftheteethis,orwhatthefuryofafever,orwhattheviolenceofthegout,orwhattherackofthestoneis,butnotwhatthewrath of the Lord is: though these things speak it somewhat, yet thoudostnotbelieveitatall;butthenfeelingwillbebelieving.Supposeeverypart of thy bodywere asmuch tortured as ever thou hast felt any onepart,andthatfortenthousandyears,howheavywoulditbetobear!thiswerebutaflea-bitingtowhatthybodymustundergoinhell.Andyetthetormentsofthysoulwillbethesoulofthytorments:intheotherworldthoushaltknowwhatthewormthatneverdieth,whatthefirethatnevergoeth out, what blackness of darkness, what to be tormented day andnight,whatweepingandwailing,andgnashingofteeth,whatdestructionfromthepresenceoftheLord,whatthewrathoftheLambmean,Mark9:43,44;2Thes.1:7,8.

Oh,itisafearfulthingtofallintothehandsofthelivingGod!Heb.10:31.Hiswrathisastheroaringofalion,Amos.3:4;asaterribleearthquake,whichmakesthehillstoquake,Ps.18:7,8;astherageofabearrobbedofher whelps, Hosea 13:8; it is a devouring fire, the most terrible of allGod's creatures. Tophet is prepared of old—for unregenerate ones it isprepared; he hath made it deep and large, the pile thereof is fire andmuch wood; the breath of the Lord, like a stream of brimstone, dothkindle it, Isa.3:26.Fire,which isso irresistible, that thouartbutstrawandstubblebeforeit;sointolerable,thatthouwiltmoanandmourn,sighand sob, under it; so unquenchable, that when it is kindled in God'sanger,itshallburntothelowesthell,Deut.32;thisfire,Isay,willspeakalittle what that great fury is which thou shalt feel. I have read, that afrown of Queen Elizabeth's killed Sir Christopher Hatton, the lordchancellorofEngland.Whatthenwill thefrownsof theKingofnationsdo? If the rocks rent, the mountains melt, and the foundations of theearthtrembleunderhiswrath,whatwiltthoudo?

WhenGodshallwithonehandstriketheeaccordingtohisinfiniteanger,andwith his other hand support thee by his infinite power, to feel thestrokeofthatfury,whocanexpressorconceivewhatthoushaltendure?When thou considerest that the wrath of God hath thrownmillions ofangels out of heaven, drowned a whole world, destroyed Sodom andGomorrah with fire and brimstone, opened a floodgate of matchless

miseries,andlettheminuponAdam'sposterity,thoumayestconceivealittle what it is. But when thou considerest that this cup of the Lord'swrathmadeJesusChrist,who inhispersonwastrueGod,whenhedidbutsipofit,tobealloverinabloodysweatinacoldwinter'snight,andthat in such abundance, that the clods of blood trickleddown fromhisface to theground,andwhenhedrank itoff, tocryout inbitternessofsoul, and anguish of spirit, 'My God,my God, why hast thou forsakenme?'what apprehensionwilt thou have of the indignation of the Lord!Well,allthismustfallontheeifthoudiestinthisestate.HowdarestthouanylongertoprovoketheLordtoanger!artthoustrongerthanhe?1Cor.10:22. The Roman would not contest with his sovereign that couldcommand legions. Wilt thou by sin contend with that God who cancommandfiretoburnthee,chainstobindthee,brimstonetochokethee,lions to tear thee, serpents to sting thee, scorpions to scourge thee,darknesstofrightthee,devilstorackthee,wormstognawthee,millionsofwoestoseizeonthee,andhelltoholdtheetofeelallthisforever?Mat.18:9,10,and22:13;Jude6–12;Mark9:44.Ah!'whoknoweththepowerofthineanger?accordingtothyfear,soisthywrath,'Ps.90:11.

Thirdly, Itwill teach thee thewoeful nature and fruit of sin.Now thoucanstmockatmischief,andsportwithsin,asifitwerenothing;but,goodLord!whatthoughtswiltthouhaveofthymostpleasurablewickednessinthe other world, when the sensual delightful streams thereof shall bedriedupwiththescorchingheatofGod'swrath,andnothingleftbutthemudofhorrorandvexation!Sindogstheeupanddownallthewhilethoulivest, as the fowler doth the flying bird; conscience will ever now andthengive theeagripe,havea flingat theewhether thouwiltorno;butwhenthebirdsettles,thenthegungoethoff:sowhenthouartsettledinthine own place, then expect themurdering piece. After thy death, theverminofthylustswillcrawlinthee,andfeeduponthee.

Thou shalt see all thy millions of sins like an army set in order, andmarshalled in rank and file before thine eyes, and every onewith theirenvenomed arrows, poisoned bullets, and wounding weapons, set inarrayagainstthee.Firstoriginalsin, thecommander-in-chief,marchethup in the front; after that, thine innumerableactual transgressions; thycarnal-mindedness, unbelief, pride, adultery, hypocrisy, drunkenness,

swearing, lying, malice, hatred, envy, unrighteousness, atheism,blasphemy, profanation of the Lord's day, undutifulness to parents,unthankfulness formercies,unprofitablenessunder themeansofgrace,incorrigibleness under afflictions; thy secret, private, public sins; thyomissions,commissions;thypersonal,relativesins:all these,andmanywhichthouneverthinkestof,shallletflywholevolleysofshotuponthee.

ThenthouwiltknowthatitissinwhichhathmadetheesoliketoSatan;thatitissinwhichhathseparatedbetweenGodandthysoul;thatitissinwhich hath shut heaven against thee; that it is sinwhich hath broughttheeintohell;thatthoughsinbedelightfulintheact,yetitisdreadful,itisdamnable,intheend.Oh,itwillbesinindeedthere!Nowthouwalkestlightly under the weight of those grievous sins, whichmake the wholecreationtogroan;butthenthouwiltfeelsintobeaburdentooheavyfortheetobear.

Amassypieceoftimberfloatinguponthewaters,andswimming,maybedrawnthiswayorthatwaybyoneman;butwhenitisoncegrounded,hecannot stir it, it will be so heavy: so now thou art borne up with thestreamsofworldlycomforts, thysinsareeasyand light;butwhen thoucomestoncetotouchatland,atthylonghome,theywillbesopoisonousfortheirnature,andsoponderousfortheirweight,thatthouwiltcryoutsadly and despairingly, what Paul did sorrowfully, yet believingly, 'OwretchedmanthatIam!whoshalldelivermefromthisbodyofdeath?'Rom.7:24.

The god of this world now blindeth thine eyes that thou neither seesttheir number nor colour; but in that long long night of blackness ofdarknessallthoseghostswillwalk,andthentheywillbeghastlyindeed.Thosearrowsofsin,whichnowthoushootestoutofsight,willthenfalldownupontheheadofthearcher.

Fourthly,ItwillteachtheetheworthofaSaviour.WhenthoufeelestthewantofaSaviour,thoushaltknow,bywoefulexperience,theworthofaSaviour. Sickness now probably teacheth thee theworth of health, andpain the comfort of ease. Truly those torturing pains and rackingdiseases, with which thou shalt be eternally affected, will teach thee,though itwill be amiserable learning, the greatprice andworthof the

physicianofsouls.

JesusChristismoreworthtoasaintinthisworldthanthewholeworld.Ifalltherockswererubies,andallthedustgold,andthewholeglobeashining chrysolite, yet he would count all but dross and dung incomparisonofChrist;nay, of onehour's ormoment's communionwithhim.Butthouseestherenosuchvirtueinhisblood,nosuchvalueinhispassion,nosuchbeautyinhisperson,nosuchexcellencyinhisprecepts;but when thou shalt feel the wrath of God, the curse of the law, thetormentsofhell, thepoisonandstingofsin, thenaRedeemerwillbeaRedeemerindeed.

NowtheSonoftheeverblessedGodtenderethhimselftotheewithmanyentreaties,goethaftertheeupanddown,nightandday,knockingatthedoorofthineheart,withallhisgraces,comforts,andfruitsofhisdeath,by the ministry of his word, the motions of his Spirit, multitudes oftemporalandspiritualmercies;butthou,unworthywretch,slightestbothhimandhispreciousattendants,andesteemestthyshopandstock, thycornandcarnalcomforts,farbeforehim;butwhenthoushaltseewhataweight of glory, what rivers of pleasures, others enjoy through theSaviour, and thyself feel more torment and pain than thou canst nowpossiblythinkorfear,forwantofaSaviour,surelythouwilthaveothermannerofthoughtsofhimthannowthouhast.

Itwouldbeasmuchworthtotheeasheaven,nowtoknowJesusChristandhimcrucified;butitwillbethehellofthinehelltoknowhimthere.OhhowdeeplyitwillcutthineheartwithhorrortothinkthatthatChrist,whom thou shalt see at his Father's right hand, waited on thee till hisheadwaswet with the dew, and his locks with the drops of the night,calledfrequentlyandferventlyafterthee,Turn,turn,Osinner!whywiltthoudie, and run thusupon thy ruin?Andyet thouwert asdeaf as anadder,andwouldstnothearthevoiceofthatsweetcharmer.

Fifthly,Itwillteachtheethepreciousnessoftime.Eternitywilllearntheethevalueoftime,wheninthatlongeveningandnight,whichshallneverhaveamorning,thoushaltrememberandconsiderthatthouhadstadayofgrace.Ohthouwiltthink,TimewaswhenIhadthetendersandoffersof all that love and life, mercy and merits, heaven and happiness, of

whichyonderblessedsoulsarepossessors;whenmercycamekneelingtome for acceptance, grace came a-begging at the door of my heart foradmittance, it followed me to bed and board, abroad and at home,beseechingmefortheloveofGod,forthesakeofmypoorsoul,toturnfrom lying vanities to the living God.How often did theminister withmanyentreatiesinvite,exhort,beseechmetopitymydyingsoul,2Cor.6:1,toleavemydamningsins,andheartilytoembracemylovingSaviourwithall speed,assuringme from thewordof theeternalGod that thenwas the only accepted time, then was the only day of salvation! But Idespised anddeferred all. I thought I had time enoughbeforeme, andwoe,andalas,itisnowtoolate;thesunofmylifeisset,thegateofmercyisshut;Ididnotworkinmyday,andnowthethingsofmypeaceareforeverhid frommineeyes.Alas,alas!poorcreature,whatwilt thoudo insuchanhour?

Nowthouwantestwaystospendthytime.Wereitnotfortheale-house,or good fellowship, or some sinful or vain sports, thou couldst not tellwhat to do with thy time. Now thou esteemest it as a mere drug thathangsuponthyhand.Howmanyaprecioushourdostthouthrowaway,though the revenuesof thewholeworld cannotpurchaseor call back amoment! but then thouwilt cry, as that foolish lady on her death-bed,whowantoned it away inher life-time,Call timeagain, call timeagain!butallinvain.Whenthouartonceentereduponthineeternity,therecanbenorecallingoftime.

IhavereadofArchias,theLacedæmonian,thatwhilsthewascarousingin his cups amongst his jovial companions, one delivers him a letterpurposelytoacquainthimthatsomelayinwaittotakeawayhislife,andwithal desired him to read it presently, because it was matter ofconcernment.Oh,saithhe,Crasseria,Seriousthingsto-morrow;buthewasslainthatnight.So,whilstthouartwallowinginthemireofsensualpleasures,amessengerfromGodissentpurposelytotelltheethatSatanandsinlieinambushmenttomurderthysoul,andwithalentreateththeetominditspeedily,thatthoumightstpreventit;butthoucriest,atleastin thy heart and practice, Serious things to-morrow; repentance, faith,and holiness hereafter; but before that hereafter come thou art in hell,andthenpresenttimewillbepreciouswhenitispast.

Thouwiltthenrememberhowexceedingcarefulthouwasttoploughandsow thy ground in its season, and howmad and foolish to put off theploughingupthefallow-groundofthyheart,andsowingtotheSpirit,tilltheseasonofgracewaspast.

Sixthly, Itwill teach thee theknowledgeof eternity, though indeed thislessonwillbeeverlearningbythee,andneverlearned.Thoushaltsufferthevengeanceofeternalfire,Jude7,andbetormenteddayandnightforeverandever,Rev.14:10.

Thou wouldst not burn a whole year, no, not one day, in one of thykitchenfires,forakingdom.Butoh,thenthoushaltbeinatenthousandtimeshotterfire,andforever!Ah,whocandwellineverlastingburnings!Whocanendureunquenchableflame!Isa.33:14.ItiswrittenofthelordchancellorEgerton, thatgoing throughWestminsterHall, in term-time,he saw written upon the wall, by one that was fearful he should beoppressedbyapotentadversary,Tanquamnonreversurus,asthoughheshouldneverreturnmore.Truly,whenthouartoncecastintothatprisonthoushaltnevercomeout.Asthecloudisconsumedandwashedaway,sohe that goethdown intohell returnethnomore, Job 7:9.Thewormtherediethnot,andthefiretherenevergoethout; there isblacknessofdarknessforever;thesmokeofthytormentwillascendforeverandever,Mat.18:10;Jude7;Rev.14:10,11.Ofriend,didstthoubutknowwhatthiseternityoftormentis,thouwouldsthowlandroar,andneverrestdaynornightwhilstthouartunconverted.Itisanageofeverlivingindeathandpangs,andyetneverexpiring;acircleofsorrowswhichknowethnoend;an extremity of pain which shall have no period.When thou hast lainunderthoseinconceivabletormentsasmanymillionsofagesastherearecreaturesgreatandsmallinheaven,earth,andthevastocean,thoushaltnotbenearer comingout than the firstmoment thoudidst go in.Nowthouthinkestprayersarelong,sermonsarelong,andSabbathsarelong,anddutiesarelong!buthowlongwiltthouthinketernitytobe!Nowthousayestthepreacherislong-winded;butah!howlong-windedwillhellbe,whenitshallholdtheeever,ever,ever,tofeelthestrokeofinfinitepowerandanger!

Thus,reader,whilethoulivest,thouartacursedcreature,andwhenthoudiest,adamnedsinner.Inlifethouartcursedinallthouhast,inallthou

dost;afterdeaththoushaltknowthevanityoftheworld,theangeroftheLord, the woeful nature and effects of sin, the worth of a Saviour, thepreciousnessoftime,andwhataboundless,bottomlessoceaneternityis.'Considerthis,ye that fearGod, lesthetearyou inpieceswhenthere isnonetodeliveryou,'Ps.50:22.

Butpossiblythou,reader,thoughunregenerate,dostnotfeelthiscurse,norfearthiswrath,thereforethouthinkestallissafe.Butanswermethisquestion,DothnotthewordofGodspeakmoreofthymisery,bothinthisandtheotherworld, thanIhaveorcanspeak?Andcanst thou imaginethatthineunbeliefshallmakeGodaliar?Itelltheethesamescriptureoftruthwhichspeakethofthymisery,speakethofthystupidity,1Thes.5:3,4,thatthouwiltevenmockandscoffwhenthouarttoldofit,2Pet.3:2.Truly thy sottish senselessness is the chain by which hell's jailer holdstheesofast.Thesickpatientthat feelethhispain is inahopefulwayofrecovery,whenhethatissickandsenselessisusuallygivenoverfordead.

Itisobservedofthosethataretakenwiththefrenzy,thediseasebeinggotintothecockloftofreason,thatthemorethediseasedothaffectthem,somuchthemoresecuretheyare,carelessofanything,presumptuousinallthings,fearfulofnothing,ashavinglosttheuseofcommonsense.Soisitwiththee;themoresinful,thelesssensible;themorethedustofsinfliesupintothineeyes,themoreblindthouartnow;butwhendeathcomes,itwillclearupthysight.Plinysaithofthemole,thatthoughshebeblindallthe timeofher life, yetwhenshecometh todie sheopenethhereyes.2Truly,thoughnowthoushuttestthineeyes,andartblindinthesethings,yetwithinafewdaysthoushaltcometodie,andthenthineeyeswillbeopened,andthouwiltseeallthesethings,andverymuchmore,asclearlyasthesunatnoonday.

Therefore, friend, what dost thou say now to this first subject ofconsideration—themiserywhichthouliestunder,andartliabletowhilstthou art unregenerate? Would any man, that were not mad, continuequietinsuchanestateonemoment?Ah,whowouldliveonehourundersuchatorridzoneforaworld?Dostthoubelieve,thatastheywhomGodblessethareblessedindeed,sotheywhomhecursetharecursedindeed?When Christ cursed the fig-tree, how speedy and effectual was it! Thedisciplessay,'Howsoonisthefig-treewitheredaway,'Mat.21:19,20.So

will it be to thee as certain, though not so sudden; like amoth, it willdevourtheesurely,yetitmaybesecretly,thatthoushalttakenonoticeofit. Let conscience speak: Art thou contented to be night and day,whereverthougoest,andwhateverthoudoest,underGod'scurseinthisword?Ifnot, thenacquaint thyselfnowwithGod,andbeatpeace,andgood;ablessing insteadofacurseshall come to thee,Job22:21.But ifthoucanstbearGod'scursesopatientlyhere,notsinkingunderit,beingkeptabovewaterwith the skin-deepbladdersof commonblessings, yetwhat wilt thou do hereafter when all these shall be parted from thee?Canst thou so quietly in the other world hear that voice, and feel theexecutionof thatverse: 'Go, thoucursed, intoeverlasting fire,preparedforthedevilandhisangelsforever'?Mat.25:41.Ifthoucanstnot,'Agreewiththyadversaryquickly,whilethouartinthewaywithhim;lestatanytimetheadversarydelivertheetothejudge,andthejudgedelivertheetotheofficer,andthoubecastintoprison.VerilyIsayuntothee,Thoushaltbynomeanscomeoutthence,tillthouhastpaidtheuttermostfarthing,'Mat.5:25,26.

CHAPTERXII

Thesecondsubjectofconsideration,Thefelicityoftheregenerateinthisworld

Secondly,Consider theunspeakable felicitywhich thoumightst enjoy ifthouwertoneregenerated.Thyhappinesswouldbefargreaterthanmytongue can declare, or thine heart desire. Blessedness is so full awordthat it comprehends all the goodwhich the rational creature canwish;and truly thou shouldst have it in its full weight. As before thou wastabove all expressions cursed, so now thou shouldst be beyond allcomparison blessed. Thy gleanings should be better than the mostprosperouswordling'svintage;theworstestatethatthoushouldsteverbeinwouldbefarmoreeligiblethanthebestestateofthegreatestemperoronearththatwereunregenerate.

EveryblessingwritteninthebookofGodwouldbethybirthrightifthouwertbornofGod;thoushouldbeblessedwiththeblessingsofthethrone

andof the footstool,with all things that belong to life and godliness, 2Pet.1:3.Noevilshouldcometothee: 'Thereshallnoevilhappentothejust,'Prov. 12:21.Nogoodshallbekept fromthee: 'TheLordshallgivegraceandglory,andnogoodthingwillhewithholdfromthemthatwalkuprightly,' Ps. 84:11. If earth can make thee blessed, thou shouldst beblessed:'Blessedarethemeek,fortheyshallinherittheearth,'Mat.5:5.Ifheavencanmake theeblessed, thoushouldstbeblessed: 'Blessedarethe poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven,'Mat. 5:3. If allthingscouldmaketheeblessed,thoushouldstbeblessed:'WhetherPaul,orApollos,orCephas,ortheworld,orlife,ordeath,orthingspresent,orthingstocome;allareyours;andyeareChrist's;andChrist isGod's,'1Cor.3:22,23.

Reader,Ishalldomyutmostsotosetforththefelicityoftheregenerate(whichno pen can fully) that thoumayest admire it:—'How goodly arethy tents,OJacob, and thy tabernacles,O Israel!'Num.25:5;—andnotonly, as Balaam, desire their deaths—'Let me die the death of therighteous, and let my latter end be like his,' Num. 23:10—but alsoendeavourtolivetheirlives,andtohavethyconversionliketheirs.

Whilethoucontinuestinthisworld,thoushouldstbeablessedsoul;andwhen thou enterest into the other world, thou shouldst be a glorioussaint.

In this world thou shouldst be a blessed soul in every condition intowhichthoucouldstcome,ineveryrelationinwhichthoudoststand,atalltimesandinallplaceswhatsoever.

AlltheprovidencesofGodshouldbeprofitabletothee.

IfGod's handwere enlarged inmercy, thy heart should be enlarged induty.IfGodshouldprospertheeintemporals,thestreamsofhisbountyshould lead thee (as the water-course, either upward to the spring, ordownwardtotheocean)tothesourceandfountainofallthyhappiness.Thyheartwouldstillbeinheaven,wherethybestthingswere,eventhenwhenthybodywerebusiedamongearthlygoodthings,1Cor.7:29,30;Phil.3:19.

Some observe of the seed called henbane, that it killeth all birds savesparrows, and to them it is nourishing food; and they give this reason,becausetheirveinsaresonarrowthatthefumesoftheseedscannotpassthrough them to their hearts. Truly thus itwould bewith thee, thoughthousandsofothersarepoisonedwiththeirworldlyportions,becausethefumes thereof penetrate into their vitals; but if riches increase, thoushouldst not set thine heart upon them; nay, thou shouldst getnourishment from them.As Jehoshaphat, themore honour andwealththouhadst, themorethyheartwouldbeliftedupinthewaysofGod,2Chron.17:5,6.

Ifthineestatewerebutlittle,yetitwouldbeperfumedwithlove;andthatlump of sugar in thy cup wouldmake the liquor sweet, be it never sosmall.As thewaterswhich flow fromthehillsof someof the islandsofMolucca taste of the cinnamon and cloveswhich grow there, so shouldthygift,thoughitwerebutwater,tasteofthegood-willandspecialgraceofthegiver.Thylittle,withthefearoftheLord,wouldbebetterthantherichesofmanywickedmen,Ps.37:16.Asa little ringwithaverycostlydiamondinit isfarmoreworththanmanygreatoneswithoutit,sothyestate, though it were but a penny, should be joinedwith the preciousjewel of that love which is better than life, and enjoyed by specialpromise, and thereby be infinitelymoreworth than the thousands andmillionsofothers,bestowedmerely fromcommonbounty,andenjoyedonlybyageneralprovidence.

If the black frost of adversity overtake thee, thou shouldst, as coneys,thrive thebetter; thy soulbeinghale, thouwouldstbecome thereby themorehealthy.Byaffliction thou shouldstbepartakerofGod'sholiness,Heb.12:10.

Thewaterofafflictionshouldwashoutthedirtofthycorruption;andthemore they increased theywould raise thee, as the flood the ark, higherabove the earth, and mount thee nearer to heaven. Torches burn thebetterforbeating;spicessmellthesweeterforpounding;vinesbearthemore for bleeding; and the more thy soul were kept down by thoseweights, likethepalm-tree,themorethoushouldstgrow.Thatscouringandrubbingwhich frettethothers shouldmake thee shine thebrighter,Ps.94:12.Divinecorrectionsshouldmaketheelearnthysacredlessons.

ItissaidoftheLacedæmonians,thatwhenallotherpeoplewereundonebywar,theyonlygrewrich.Trulythus,whenungodlyonesaretheworsefor outward miseries and wants,—like Ahaz, in their distress they sinmoreagainsttheLord,—thoushouldstthrivethebetter,growthericheringraceandgoodworks.Thediminutionof thy temporal shouldbeanaddition to thy spiritual estate, Job 36:9, 10. As spring-water smokethwhenotherwatersaredriedup,becausethatislivingandthesearedead;nay,itisobserved,watersarisingfromdeepspringsarehotterinwinterthan in summer, the outward cold keeping in and doubling the inwardheat;sothewatersofthygracesshouldnotonlycontinue,havingalivingprinciple, when the sun of calamity scorcheth and drieth up the deadponds of unregenerate professors, Mat. 13:21, but also increase inspiritualheat,Job17:8,9;Phil.1:14.

Ifthedevilassaultedtheewithtemptations,theyshouldneverbeforthyperdition,butprobation,Rev.2:20.TheCaptainofthysalvationwouldsostrengthen thysoulwith theshieldof faithandswordof theSpirit thatthou shouldst not only defend thy soul from all deadly wounds, butoffendthineenemy,andbemorethanaconqueroroverprincipalitiesandpowers,throughhimthatloveththee.Itwouldpossiblybegrievousandterribletotheetobetempted;butifGoddidnotseeitneedful,hewouldnotsufferit;nay,ifhecouldnotmakeituseful,hewouldnotsendit:bythose thorns of the flesh hewould prick the vein, and let out the rankblood of thy spirit. It is said of Telephus that he had his imposthumeopenedby thedartofanenemywhich intendedhishurt.Truly,soGodwould make to thee the fiery darts of the devil, though they wereintentionallymortal,tobeeventuallymedicinal,1John5:18.Theeviloneshouldnottouchthee,thatis,withamortalordeadlytouch.Asasoundtree shaken with the wind, thou shouldst not fall, but root thyself thefaster;thoushouldst,likeSamson,fetchmeatoutoftheeater,andoutofthe strong sweetness; thou shouldst get honey even out of this roaringlion; thy regeneration, like pollium, would be a special preservativeagainstthepoisonofthatcrookedserpent.

Nay,whenthoushouldstfallintotheevilofsin,eventhatshouldturntothy good. God,—no thanks to thee,—like the skilful apothecary, wouldmake wholesome treacle of such poisonous drugs. If thy corruption

should at any time get the mastery, and break out in thy life, thoushouldstbesowellpurgedbythephysicianofsoulswiththebitteraloesof repentance, that as those who have had ill-humours of their bodiesgetting head and breaking out in the small-pox, and do well, thoushouldstbethehealthierinthysoulwhilstthoulivest.Asaburntchild,thoushouldsteverdreadthatfire:thybrokenbone,beingoncewellset,wouldbestronger thanbefore; thoushouldst,after thy falls,walkmoredependinglyonChrist,morecompassionatelytowardsothers,andmorewatchfully over thine own heart. Compare 2 Sam. 11:4, and 15, with 1Chron.11:18,19;Mark14:29,withJohn21:15–17.

Whateverthyconditionwere,itshouldtendtothineeternalconsolation.Everywindthatblew,whetherthenippingnorthwindofadversity,orthecherishingsouthwindofprosperity,shouldneitherofthemwrongthee,for Christ would give them a charge concerning thee, as David hiscaptains concerning Absalom, Do this young convert no harm, nodiscourtesy,butdealgentlywithhimformysake;yea,theyshouldbothblow a blessing to thy soul. Though the providences of God might besometimespainfultothineoutward,yettheyshouldbealwaysprofitabletothineinwardman.Infinitelovewouldsendall,infinitewisdomwouldtemperall,and infinitepowerwoulddisposeall for thybenefit: therodwouldeverbeinthehandofalovingFather,andthereforeneverusedtoruinorharmthee,butevertoreformandhealthee.

Asintherevolutionoftheheavens,everyplanetmovethinitsproperorb,theirmotionsarevarious,nay,opposite,yetbythewheelingroundoftheprimummobile,theyareallbroughtabouttoonedeterminatepoint;andasthewheelsofawatch,thoughtheymovecontraryways,yetallservetocarryontheendoftheworkman,totellusthetimeoftheday;sothoughtheprovidencesanddealingsofGodbeneversocrossseemingly,yettheyshouldalltendtothineadvantagereallyandfinally,andtocarryonGod'sdesign,whichisthyspiritualandeternalfelicity.

Inaword,ifafflictionsdidwaituponthee,iftemptationswatchagainstthee, ifmerciesdidflowin,orbyiniquitythoudidstfalldown,whetherthe days of thy pilgrimage were cloudy or clear, shining or showering,whateverweatherthoutravellestintowardsthyFather'shouse;allthingsshouldworktogetherforthygood,ifthoudidstonceloveGod,andwert

calledaccordingtohispurpose,Rom.8:28.

As allGod's providences should be profitable to thee, so also in all thyperformancesthoushouldstbeacceptabletoGod.

When thou shouldst approach the Lord of glory, he would give thee ameeting in the means of grace; he would bid thee welcome into hispresence, and warm thine heart with his spiritual influences; thoumightsthearhimspeaking to thesolaceandwonderof thysoul! 'Omydove,shewmethyface,letmehearthyvoice;forsweetisthyvoice,andthycountenanceiscomely,'Cant.2:14.

TheSpiritofGodwouldassisttheeinallthyperformances,enablingtheetoofferup toGodwhatcame firstGod;andohhowexceedinglywouldtheFatherbetakenwith,anddelightin,hisownchild!ThefruitsoftheSpirit would be pleasant fruits indeed, Rom. 8:26; Cant. 4:16. Thoushouldst ineverysacrificegiveGod thineheart,whichhecouldnotbuttakekindlyatthyhands;thyprayerwouldbehisdelight,Prov.15:8;thysweet breath would abundantly please him; no music could be somelodious to thee as thy prayers to him; thou shouldst never askanythingbuthewouldgrantit,eitherinspecieorpondere,inmoneyormoney-worth. The King of heaven is not he that could do anythingagainstthee,asthatearthlykingsaid,Jer.38:5,'Thyprayershouldcomebeforehimlikeincense,andtheliftingupofthinehandsasmorningandeveningsacrifices,whichhissoulwouldsmellasweetsavourin.'Hiseyeswouldbealwaysopenuponthypersonwithacceptance,andthereforehisearswouldbeopentothyprayerswithaudience,Gen.4:4.

Thou, likeEsther, shouldstbearrayed in thybest raiment, the robesofthySaviour'srighteousness,andsoappearinginthepresenceoftheKing,shouldstfindsuchfavourinhiseyes,thatthypetitionshouldbegranted,andthyrequestperformed,thoughitweretothehalf,tothewhole,ofhiskingdom.

Thydutiesshouldbeperformedwithsuitablegraces.Atasacrament,orinaprayer, thoushouldstdrawnightohimby faith,Heb.10:22.Knowthydistancefromhimbygodlyfear,Heb.12:28;bemadeonewithhimby love, Job 37:13;whichwould enlarge thy heart in desires after him,

andravish thysoulwithdelight inhim,Ps.73:25;Job22:26;and thoushouldstwalkwithhimthroughouttheduty,withonefootofhope,andtheotherofhumility.

Thusgraciously shouldst thou lookup tohim, andhewouldgraciouslylook down upon thee; little dost thou think what powerful loadstonesthesegraceswouldbetodrawforthhislove.Observeandadmire:'Thouhast ravishedmyheart,my sister,my spouse; thouhast ravishedmineheartwithoneofthineeyes,withonechainofthyneck.Howfairisthylove,mysister,myspouse!howmuchbetter is thy love thanwine!andthesmellofthineointmentsthanallspices!'Cant.4:9–11,totheend.

Besides,allthyperformanceswouldbeperfumedbytheMediator.Therewouldindeedstillbeimperfectioninthygraces,whicharepouredbytheSpirit into thy soul, as pure liquor into a foul vessel. Spring-waters, astheypassthroughtheveinsoftheearth,willtasteofthemineralswhichthey there salute; so would thy gracious actions have their faults anddefects,because thouwouldsthavestill anunregeneratepart; thereforeduties,astheycamefromthee,wouldnothaveagoodsavour,butChristthe angel would stand at the altarwith sweet incense, intercepting thysacrifices and prayers in their passage to heaven, purge away theiniquitiesofthyholythingswithhisownblood,perfumethydutieswithhis infinitemerits, and so present them to his Father in his ownnamewithout the least defilement; and then, oh then, how pleasing andacceptablemusttheyneedsbetohim!Rev.8:3,4.

Aswhenaservant iswithamasteruponliking,hedothhisbusinesssocoldlyandcarelessly,andissoindifferentaboutit,thathismastertakeslittlenoticeeitherofhimorhiswork,andallthattimeislost.Butwhenheisoncebound,andthe indenturessealed,andhis fatherengagedforhisfaithfulness,theapprenticefallstohisworkwithanothermannerofspirit;andthemasternowesteemsitasservice,carriethhimselftowardshimasamaster,resolvestoteachhimhistrade,andhistimeeverydaygoes on. So whilst a man is unregenerate, he serveth God so coldly,hypocritically, and carnally, thatGod accepts it not, nay, loathes it; hisperformancestheyareasthecuttingoffofadog'sneck,ortheofferingupof swine's flesh, it is lost service; but when indentures are sealed inregeneration, that the man is bound to God by a hearty dedication of

himselftohisservice,andChristhathgivenaconsiderablesumwithhim,andundertakenforhisfaithfulness,thenthesoulfallstoGod'sbusinesswithhandandheart,andGodesteemsitasservice,andresolvestoteachhim the trade of pleasing God on earth, that hemay be fit to do it inheaven.

All theordinancesofGodshouldbeforthygood.If thouwertbutbornagain,andalivespiritually,thoushouldstfindtheword,prayer,singing,sacraments, Sabbaths, communion of saints, to be both refreshing andnourishingfoodtothysoul,thoughnowthoucanstrelishthemnomorethanthewhiteofanegg,andreceivenomoregoodfromthemthanfroma dry chip; then they would be as pipes to convey the water of life, tocheer and satisfy thy thirsty spirit. If thou wert a child weak in grace,ordinanceswouldbemilktothee;ifastrongman,theywouldbestrongmeat; though thy spiritual strengthwere never so small, thou shouldstfindtheywouldincreaseit.TheFatherofeternitywouldtakecaresotonurseandfeedtheethatthoushouldstthrive,1Pet.2:2.

As the head doth by the organs of sinews or nerves convey the animalspiritsintothewholebody,andwiththembothsenseandmotion,sothyheadChristJesuswould,bythoseorgansofordinances,conveyspirituallife,senseandmotion,totheehismember.

Thoumightsthearthewordwithmuchspiritualhunger,andthatbeingthysauce,wouldmaketheeboth fall toandrelish thy food.WhenthoushouldsthearChristspeakingtothee,andopeningtheScriptures,thineheart would burn within thee, and, as metal melted, be ready for anymouldwhichGodwouldcasttheeinto.

Thepreceptsofthewordwouldbealighttothyfeet,andalanterntothypaths;thouwouldstlovethemfortheirpurity,findthemtobeexceedingpleasant,andturnthyfeetintothosewaysofpeace.Thineheartwouldinpart answer God's holy law, as the counterpart the original deed; andthoushouldstsobeholdthefaceoftheLordintheglassofhisword,thatthoushouldstbechangedintohisimagefromglorytoglory,bytheSpiritoftheLord,2Cor.3:18.

The threatenings of theword, though they portend and speak dreadful

things,asNebuchadnezzar'sdream,yetthosefearfulandfaithfuldreamswouldbelong to thine enemies, and the interpretationof them to themthathatethee.ThosedolefulthreateningsofGod'swrath,thedeliveringupofsoulstogooninsin,andtheeternaltormentsofhell,likedrones,willbuzzaboutthineearstokeeptheewakeful,butcouldnotstingtheetomaketheewoeful;wertthoubutaliveinChrist,thoushouldstbedeadtothelawandallitscurses,Rom.7:4.

Thepromiseswouldbepreciousalsotothee,ifthouwertconverted;thouwouldst have themouth of faith, with which thou shouldst suckmuchwarmheart-cheeringmilk from thosebreastsof consolation, Isa.66:11.To thee the promises would be encouragements to service; thethreatenings,affrightmentsfromsin;theprecepts,directionstosanctity.Ifthyheartweresorrowful,thepromiseswouldenlivenit; ifsecure,thethreatenings would awaken it; if full of doubts, the precepts wouldcounselandadviseit.Ofthepromises,moreinthenexthead.

At a sacrament Christwould sweetly feast thy soul, bring thee into hisbanqueting-house, and cause his banner over thee to be love; whenothersfeedonlyuponelements,thoushouldstfeedonthesacrament,andfindhisfleshtobemeatindeed,andhisbloodtobedrinkindeed;whenothersstoodatthedoor,andareputoffwithsomepoorscraps,asmuchastheycamefor,thoushouldstbecalledin,sitathisowntable,feastedwith the fat things of his own house, drink of the rivers of his ownpleasures, continue under his shadowwith great delight, and knowhisfruit sweet unto thy taste; when thou sawest with the eye of faith theboard spread, and richly furnished with variety of dainties, all thecordials and sweetmeats of the gospel, among the rest, with that lovewhich is better than wine, thou shouldst hear a voice from the Spiritwithin thee, 'Eat, O friend; drink abundantly, O beloved;' which, howravishingitwouldbetothineears,andhowrefreshingtothineheart,notonguecantell.Oreader,hadstthoueverfoundatasacramentwhatitistosupwithChrist,andChristwiththee,thouwouldscornthelifeofanemperorforthelifeofanewcreature.

In prayer, God and thy soul would sweetly converse together. Thypetitionswouldascenduptohim,andhisrighthandkindnesseswoulddescendonthee.Inthisdutythouwouldstcall,turninghispreceptsinto

prayers,andhewouldanswerbyturninghispromisesintoperformances.Many,manyablessingshouldstthouobtainkneeling.Thisvesselwouldnever return (though sometimes itmight seem to tarry long)but richlyladen.ThecropofGod'sanswerwouldbefargreaterthantheseedofthyprayer out of which it grew. The prodigal desired but the liberty of aservant;but the fatherbestowedonhim thedignityof a son: 'Thekingaskedlife,andthougavest ithim,yea, lengthofdaysforeverandever.Hisgloryisgreatinthysalvation;honourandmajestyhastthouputuponhim,'Ps.21:4,5.Asamerchant inamorningwillget fivehundredorathousand pounds by a bargain, truly thou shouldst, by a duty in amorningor evening, get thousands, nay,millions, at a clap, increase ofgrace, a supply of thy spiritual wants, the subduing of thy secretwickedness,peaceofconscience,communionwithGod,joyintheSpirit,whicharemoreworththanthewholeearth.

Inbrief,Christwouldbethyshepherd,feedtheeingreenpastures,leadtheebythestillwaters,andtakecarethatthoubefatandflourishing.Asthe root sendeth up its sap through the bark to all its living branches,whereby they continue living and bring forth fruit, so if thou wert butregenerated,anda livingbranch, thoushouldstderive the sapofgrace,through ordinances, from Christ thy root, whereby thou shouldstpersevereinspirituallife,andglorifyGodbybringingforthmuchfruit.

AllthepromisesofGodshouldbethyportion.

Reader, thouartnotable toconceivetheunsearchablericheswhicharelaidupinthepromises.Wellmaytheapostlecallthem'exceedinggreatand precious promises,' 2 Pet. 1:4. The promises are the great charter,containing all the privileges which were purchased by Christ; like anapothecary's shop, they are full of various salves for every sore, ofprecious remedies for every malady, of choice cordials to enliven theewith spiritual consolation in the saddest condition. One promise is ofunspeakableworth.Aseverypreciousstone,soeveryindividualpromisehathitsvirtueandvalue.Itisthesayingofone,Wehadbetterwantmeat,drink, air, light, all the elements, than that one sweet sentence of ourSaviour,'Comeuntome,allyethatlabourandareheavyladen,andIwillgiveyourest,'Mat.11:28.MrBurroughssaiththatthereismoreofGodinthatoneverse,John3:16,thaninheavenandearthbeside:'Godsoloved

theworldthathegavehisonly-begottenSon,thatwhosoeverbelievethonhimshouldnotperish,buthave everlasting life.'AndMrBaxter, inhisEverlastingBest,Iremember,hathanexpressiontothispurpose,thathewouldnotforalltheworldthatthatverse,John17:24,hadbeenleftoutof theBible, 'Father, Iwillalso, that theywhomthouhastgivenme,bewithmewhereIam;thattheymaybeholdmyglory.'

Onepromisehath revived the saintswhen theyhave been almost deadwith sorrow, and held their heads up, that they have not sunk in deepwaters. Beza was refreshed by that, John 10:27–29; Mr Bilney, thatblessedmartyr,bythat,1Tim.1:15;FatherLatimeratthestakebythat,1Cor. 10:13;MrRobertBolton, that famouspreacherandeminent saint,was comforted under a sad affliction by that, Isa. 26:3. Now if onepromise be so precious, how happy shouldst thou be, wert thou butregenerated, to have an interest in all the promises! That whole bookshouldbethine,whereineveryleafdropsmyrrhandmercy,loveandlife.Thoumightst walk in the garden,where those choice flowers, pleasantfruits,andsweetspicesgrow,andabundantlydelightthysoulwiththeirfragrant smell and luscious taste. 'The promise is to you, and to yourchildren,and to themthatareafaroff,and toasmanyas theLordourGod shall call,' Acts 2:39.Observe the silver thread uponwhich all thejewelsofthepromiseshang,'ToasmanyastheLordourGodshallcall.'When thou art called and born of him, all the promises would be thyportion.Asall theriversmeet in theocean,soall thepromisesmeet inregeneration. I will name two or three promises, that thoumayest seehow well it would be with thee wert thou once in Christ. All thy sinsshouldbepardoned; though theywerenever sogreat andgrievous, yetthebloodofJesusChristwouldcleansetheefromthem.Didstthoubutknowwhatagreatpricewas laiddowntoprocureapardon,Heb.9:22,24, what dreadful punishments sinners undergo in hell for want ofpardon, Jude 7, what sorrows and sighs, broken bones, and wateredcouches,thesaintssuffer,whentheyarebutdoubtfuloftheirpardon,Ps.38:1–4, thou wouldst say, 'O blessed is the man whose iniquity isforgiven, and whose sin is covered; blessed is he to whom the Lordimputethnotsin,'Ps.32:1,2.Nowthoushouldstobtainthisblessedness;Godwouldesteemtheeperfectlyrighteous.Solinusreportsofariver inBœotiawhichmaketh black sheep, if washed therein,white; trulywert

thou never so black a sinner, yet thou shouldst be made white by thebloodoftheLamb,Rev.7:14.

Asallthysinsshouldberemitted,sothypersonshouldbeadopted.Thoushouldst of a child ofwrathbecome the child ofGod, John 1:12.Davidreckoneditagreathonourtobetheson-in-lawofkingSaul.'Seemethit,'saithhetoSaul'sservant, 'a lightthingtoyoutobeaking'sson-in-law,seeing that I amvileand lightlyesteemed?' 1Sam. 18:23.Ohwhat is itthentobethesonofGod,oftheKingofkings,andLordoflords!'Beholdwhatmanner of love hath the Father loved uswith, that we should becalled his children,' 1 John 3:1. The greatest admiration is too little forsuch infinite condescension; yet this privilege should be thine. Theboundless God, who hath millions of glorious angels for his servants,wouldown,feed,clothe,protect,maintain,andportiontheeashisson.

Thoushouldstbe sure topersevere ingrace.Beingonce inChrist, thoushouldstbeeverinChrist.Thoughthewindshouldblow,andthewavesbeat against thee, yet thou shouldst not fall, being built upon the truerock;theverygatesofhellshouldnotprevailagainstthee.Thoughthoumightstfallfoully,yetthoushouldstneverfallfinally,becausetheseedofGodwouldremainwithinthee,1John3:9;Phil.1:6;1Thes.5:23,24.Thylife would be hid in Christ, as the sap in the root; and therefore thoumightsthavethineautumn,yetthoushouldstspringagain.Thystockofgracewouldnotbeinthineown,butinChrist'shands,andforthiscausethoucouldstnotpossiblyprove,asAdam,abankrupt.Thoughtheflameof a zealousprofessionmight be abated, yet therewouldbe fire on thehearthundertheashes,truegraceinthineheart;theloveofGodtothysoulwouldbeeverlastinglove,Jer.31:3.ThekindnessofthyRedeemertothee, everlastingkindness, Isa. 54:8.TheSpirit of gracewouldabide inthee for ever, John 14:16.The covenant intowhich thou shouldst enterwithGodwouldbeaneverlastingcovenant,Heb.13:20;andinthatverycovenantthySaviourwouldundertakeforthee,thatthoushouldstneverdepart away from him, but abide in him for ever, Jer. 31:33, 34, and32:40.Christhimselfwouldbeeverinthee;andChrist,saithone,mayassoondieinheavenathisFather'srighthand,asintheheartofabeliever.

Tosumupallthepromisesinone,GodwouldbethyGod;andhowmuchwealthisinthisgoldenminewouldnonplusthetonguesofallthemenin

theworldtoexpress,andtheunderstandingsofalltheangelsinheaventoconceive.Thisisthegreatnewcovenantpromise,Heb.8:8–10,'Iwillbe to them aGod, and they shall be tome a people.' The author of allpromisesisthematterofthispromise.Surelyitisthemain,theocean,alarge promise indeed, when it contains him whom the heavens, andheaven of heavens, can never contain. The book of promises is as agloriouscrown,butthisisthemostsparklingdiamondinit.

Friend,dost thou considerwhat it is tohaveGod for thyGod?All thatGodiswouldbethine;theFatherthine,toadopttheeforhisownson;theSonthine,topurifyandpresenttheeacceptabletotheFather;theSpiritthine,todwellintheeasawitness,seal,andearnestofthineeverlastinginheritance. All that is in God should be thine; all his attributes andperfectionsshouldbelaidoutforthyprofit;hiswisdomwouldbethinetodirect thee, his power thine to protect thee, his grace thine to pardonthee,hismercythinetopitythee,hisgoodnessthinetocomfortthee,andhis glory thine to crown thee.Thou canstnot imaginewhat a full goodthisGodisinhimself,andwouldbetothee.Hewouldbetotheehealthinsickness,strengthinweakness,lightindarkness,joyinsadness,richesinpoverty,honour in ignominy, freedominslavery,ease inpain,safety indangers, and life in death. This one God would supply all thy need,'accordingtohisrichesinglorybyChristJesus,'Phil.4:19.

Godwouldsubduethycorruptions,enabletheetoovercometemptations,to be a gainer by afflictions, to hold out under desertions, to improveprovidences, to be the better for ordinances, to be filled with holiness,andfittedforhappiness.Hewoulddomorefortheethanthoucouldstaskorthink,Eph.3:20.Wellmightthepsalmistwonderattherichesofhisportion, who had a propriety in God: Ps. 144:15, 'Happy is the people,that is insuchacase;yea,happy is thepeople,whoseGod is theLord.'Ainsworth reads these words by way of admiration, 'Oh happy is thepeoplewhoseGod is theLord!'As if the psalmist, consideringwhat hehad said before, that it was a happiness to enjoy children, cattle, andoutward comforts, did from those streams ascend to the fountain, andgathered by rational arguing, if they are happy that have their sonsgrowing as plants, their daughters as polished stones, their barnsswelling,andtheirflocksthriving,ohhowhappyarethesewhoseGodis

theLord!If theyaresoblessedwhohavethestars,howhappyaretheythat have the sun! For in the presence of this sun all those starsmustvanishanddisappear.Mollerustakesthewordsbywayofcorrection,Yea,rather, blessed is the people whose God is the Lord. As if David hadrecalledhimself,andwithhispengivenadashtoallthathehadsaid:DidIsay that theywerehappywhichaboundedwithrelations,possessions,and outward comforts? I recall myself. Alas! they are not happy incomparison of their happiness who have the Lord for their God; yea,rather,happyisthepeoplewhoseGodistheLord.Bythislatterhecutsofftheneckofhisformerexpression.Sometakethewordsconjunctively,as if David had proclaimed them happy indeed for whom the Lord astheirGod doth so liberally provide. The childrenmust needs be happythathaveaFatherthattakessuchcareofthem,andbestowethsomanyoutwardgoodthingsonthem.Augustinetakesthewordsdisjunctively,asiftheformerpartoftheverse,'Happyisthepeoplethatisinease,'werethevoiceoftheworld;andthelatterpartofit, 'Yea,happyisthepeoplewhose God is the Lord,' were the voice of the saints. And that fatherexplainshimselftothispurpose:Ovainandfoolishspeakers,Ostrangechildren, theyhavecalled thepeoplehappy thatare insuchacase.Butwhatsayestthou,David?Whatsayestthou,ObodyofChrist?Whatsayye,OmembersofChrist?Whatsayye,OchildrenofGod?Becausethosevain speakers and strange children have called them happy that are insuchacase?Whatsayye?'Andthenheanswerethforthem,asthevoiceofall,'HappyisthepeoplewhoseGodistheLord.'2

Thushappy,reader,shouldstthoube,ifthouwertonceregenerated.ThatGod,incomparisonofwhomthewholecreationisasnothing,wouldbethyGod.Ohhoweminently,howinfinitely,shouldstthoubeblessed, inhavingsorich,sovast,soboundlessagoodforthyGod!Thoushouldstbeblessedinthybody,thatshouldbethetempleoftheHolyGhost,andpartofthemysticalbodyoftheSonofGod,andsonearlyandcloselyunitedtohim,thatneitherdeath,grave,nordust,shouldeverbeabletoseparateitfromhim,1Cor.6:19;1Thes.4:14,16.

Thou shouldst be blessed in thy soul, that should be ever fat andflourishing,Ps. 92:13, 14, like awateredgardenabounding in fruit; thesmell of thy soul would be as the smell of a fieldwhich the Lord hath

blessed.

Thou shouldst be blessed in thy estate; that blessing which can turn aprisonintoapalace,acottageintoacourt,povertyintoplenty,wouldbethyportion.Thoushouldstbesureofnecessaries,ofenoughtobearthycharges till thou comest to thy father's house, Ps. 37:25, 26, and34:11.Havingfaith,thoushouldstnotfearafamine,butwouldstbeassuredthathewhofeedsthebirdsoftheair,foddersthebeastofthefields,filleththebellies of his enemies with hidden treasures, would never forget hisfriends, or starve his children. The Lord would be thy shepherd, andtherefore thou couldst not want, Ps. 23:1. As they that are well linedwithin,andhavemuchgoodbloodandspirits,canenduretogo incoldweather with less clothes than others; so thou being inwardlystrengthenedwiththegraceandloveofGod,shouldstbeabletowalkintheworldcomfortablywithalessestatethanothers.Ifthoushouldstbethineowncarver,thouwouldstcutthyfingers.

If thymeansweresmall, thystomachshouldnotbegreat.Asthesheepcanliveuponbarecommons,andthrivethere,wherethefatoxwouldbestarved;sointhemidstofthystraits,thycontentednesswouldgivetheeasufficiency,whenothers,whoarestrangerstograce,inthemidstoftheirsufficiencyare in straits, Job20:22.Truepietyhath trueplenty, and isneverwithoutawell-contentingsufficiency,foritwillgivehimwhohathnothingthepossessionofallthings,1Tim.6:6;Hab.3:16,17;2Cor.6:11.Thy dinner of herbs, with the love and favour of God, would be betterthanastalledoxwithhisangerandfrowns,Prov.15:15,16.

Thou shouldst be blessed in thy children: 'The justmanwalketh in hisintegrity, and his children are blessed after him,' Prov. 20:7. Jehu'schildren fared thebetter for their father's godliness, though itwerebutcounterfeit, 2 Kings 10:30. Surely, then, the generation of the uprightshallbeblessed,Ps.112:2.Whenthoudidstleavethem,Godwouldfindthem,andrequitethychildrenforthylovetohim,muchmorefaithfullythanDaviddidMephibosheth for Jonathan's good-will,Gen. 17:8;Acts2:39.

Thy whole house would be the happier for thee: 'God blesseth thehabitationoftherighteous,'Prov.3:33.Nothingcanpossiblybewanting,

but itmay bemade up by thy blessing: 'If thou dost hearken unto thevoice of theLord thyGod, blessed shalt thoube in the city, and in thefield;blessedshallbe the fruitof thybody,and the fruitof thyground,and the fruit of thy cattle; blessed shall be thy basket and thy store;blessed shalt thou be when thou goest out, and blessed shalt thou bewhenthoucomestin,'Deut.28:1–14.

Thouwouldst be a blessing to thy neighbours; as a conduit, yield clearwaterforothers'comfort.Iftheywereprofane,theymightbebroughttomind piety by thy precepts and pattern. If theywere good, theywouldrejoiceatthyconversiontoGod,and,likeAbraham,makeafeastattheweaningofthee,achildofthepromise,fromthebreastsofthecreatures.

Thou shouldst be blessed in thy name: 'The memory of the just isblessed,'Prov.10:7.Thynamewouldbeheirtothy life;assoonaseverthynaturewere religious, thynamewouldbe reverend;andwhen thoudiestthouwouldstgooutofthisworldlikesomesweetperfume,leavingafragrantsavourbehindthee.

O reader, howmany sheets might I write in relating thy felicity. Howhonourable shouldst thou be, having blood-royal running in thy veins,andbeingheir-apparenttoakingdomofglory!Howrich,havingakeytoGod'streasury,andbeinginterestedinthecovenantofgrace,whichhathmore wealth in it than heaven or earth! How comfortable, having thepromises for thy cordials, andbeing garrisonedwith that peace ofGodwhichpassethallunderstanding!Howbeautiful,having the robeof therighteousnessofGodtoadornthee,whichisinfinitelymorecomelythanthe unspotted innocency either of Adam or angels! The infinite Godwould be thy God, blessed angels thy guardians, beautiful saints thycompanions,durablerichesthyportion, thefleshofChrist thyfood,hisown robes thy raiment, and his own mansion-house thine everlastinghome.

Thoucouldstnotcastaneye,butitwouldseematterofmirth;norsendforthathought,butitwouldreturnwithareportofmercy.WhetherthoulookestuptothyFatherinheaven,andhisgloriousattendantsthere,orlookest down to his creatures on earth, and the signs of his manifoldwisdomandmightypowerhere,orwhetherthoulookestintoconscience

or Scriptures, everything, all things,would yield thee cause of comfort,andgivetheeoccasionofinwardexultation.

Inallconditions,betheyneversosad,thysoulwouldbesafe,andthineeverlastingestatesecure.Thevailsareuncertain,butthestandingwagesarecertain.Whatballast is toa ship, that regenerationwouldbe to thyspirit.Ifthevesselbesoundandwellballasted,thoughitmaybetossedandrockedwithwindsandwaves,yet itshallnotberuined;so, ifthineheartwerestablishedwithgrace,thoushouldstbesteadyinthegreateststorm;nay,thoughthouwertnakedindeepwaters,inthemightysea,yetChrist,thinehead,beingeverabovewater,thoucouldstnotpossiblysink.

Whenthoushouldstcometodie,andtothrowthylastcastforeternity,thoumightstwalkinthevalleyoftheshadowofdeath,andfearnoneill,forGodwouldbewiththee,Ps.23.Whenpale-faceddeathknocksatthedoor of thinehouse of clay, by thehandof somemortal sickness, thouneedstnotbedauntedathisgrimlooks,butmightstboldlyopentohim,andbidthatmessengerheartilywelcome,asknowingthathecomesfroma God in covenant, to give thee a passage into fulness of joy andeverlastingpleasures.

ItisreportedofGodfrey,DukeofBouillon,inhisexpeditiontotheHolyLand,thatwhenhisarmycamewithinviewofJerusalem,beholdingthehighturretsandfairfrontswhichweretheskeletonsoffarmoregloriousbodies,theyweresotransportedwithjoythattheygavesuchashoutthatthe very earthwas said to ring again.Howmight thineheart leapwithjoy,whenthouuponthydeath-bedshouldstwiththeeyeoffaithbeholdthestatelyturretsandpearlygatesofthenewandeternalJerusalem!

Thoumightstcontentedly leavethineearthlyhabitationfor thyFather'shouse, and joyfully bid adieu to thy corruptible silver and airyhonoursforanenduringsubstanceandaneternalweightofglory.Howcheerfullymightstthouforsakethymeatanddrink,andallthycarnalcomforts,toeat bread in the kingdomof heaven, and to bathe thy soul in angelicaldelights! With what courage mightst thou bid farewell to thy statelydwelling, dearest wife, most lovely children, and all thy kindred andacquaintance,togoto'mountZion,andtothecityofthelivingGod,theheavenly Jerusalem, and to an innumerable company of angels, to the

general assembly and Church of the first-born which are written inheaven,andtoGodthejudgeofall,andtothespiritsof justmenmadeperfect,toJesusthemediatorofthenewcovenant,'Heb.12:22–24.

Thoushouldstcomfortablythinkofthybody'sbeinglaidinthegrave,tosleep there till themorning of the resurrection; for that bed would besweettothee,beingperfumedwiththepreciousbodyofthySaviourforthee.Andwithwhatjoymightstthouthinkofthedayofjudgment,whenthy body should be awakened out of its sleep, united to thy soul,fashioned likeuntothegloriousbodyofChrist,andbothsoulandbodymadeperfectlyblessedinthefullenjoymentofGodtoalleternity!Ohthefelicityoftheregenerate!HowblessedaretheywhomGodchooseth,andcauseth by regeneration to approach unto him! Friend, friend, can theworlddohalfthisforthee?Why,then,dostthouspendthystrengthforwhatisnotbread,andthylabourforwhatwillnotsatisfy?

Will notGoddo all this andmuchmore for thee?Why thendost thouforsake the fountain of living waters, and hew unto thyself brokencisternsthatcanholdnowaters?Ah,didstthoubutknowthegiftofGod,andwhoitisthatoffereththesethingstothee,thouwouldstaskofhim,andhewouldgivetheelivingwaters,John4:10.Reader,whatsayestthouto these things? Is therenot infinite reasonwhy thou shouldst speedilygive a bill of divorce to thy most beloved lusts, and strike a heartycovenant with the Lord Jesus? Art not thou fully convinced of thematchlessgainofgodliness?Letconsciencespeak.Onewouldthinksuchpowerfulargumentscouldnotbedenied—thatsomanyandsuchcostlyloadstonesshoulddrawtheetowardsheaven,thoughthineheartwereashardasironorsteel.Ifthouartforprofit,man,hereisprofitindeed,andtopurpose.Thus,whilstthoucontinuestinthisworld,thoushouldstbeablessedsoul.

CHAPTERXIII

Thefelicityoftheregenerateintheotherworld

ThoughinwhatIhavealreadyoffered,inthenameoftheblessedGod,Ihaveunspeakablyoutbiddevil,world,andflesh,yettomanifestthyfollyin making and continuing a league with them, to thine extreme andinconceivabledisadvantage,Ishallendeavourtosetbeforethee,thoughbriefly, the far greater felicity which thou shouldst obtain in the otherworld.

Aswhilstthoucontinuestinthisworldthoushouldstbeablessedsoul,sowhenthouenterestintotheotherworldthoushouldstbeaglorioussaint.

Andthis,reader,isthebestwine,whichChristkeepsforhisgueststillthelast, though how good it is none can tell but they that have tasted it.Truly,whatNazianzensaidofBasil,Imaysayofthisglorioussaint,Therewantsnothingbuthisowntonguetocommendhim.Thesubjectislargeandweighty;andsureIamthatitwouldrequirethewords,notonlyofasaint,butanangel,todoitaccordingtoitsworth.Ishallonlygivetheeasay,briefly,ofthatwhichglorifiedsaintsenjoyfully.

First,Thoushouldstknowwhatperfectionofholinessis.Ifthouwertbutnewborn,thisonethoughtwouldfillthysoulwithmarrowandfatness,and cause thy mouth to praise God with joyful lips. One drachm ofholiness infinitelysurpasseth, in theesteemofasaint,all thekingdomsandempiresofthisworld.Howmuchthenisperfectholinessworth!Inheaventhoushouldsthave it. 'Therethoushouldstbebeforethethronewithoutfault,andservehimdayandnightinhistemple,'Rev.14:5.

Whatpricedothasaintsetupon,andwhatpainsdothhetakefor,alittleholiness!Ifthouwouldstknowwhyhehideththewordinhisheart,itisthathemightnotsinagainstGod; thepurgingoutofsinfulhumours istheend forwhichhe takes thatphysic.Whyhe readethandheareth sodiligently,itisthathemightbesanctifiedthroughGod'struth,cleansingisthereasonwhyheuseththatwater.Whyheprayethsofrequentlyandso fervently, it is that hemight have a clean heart created, and a rightspirit renewedwithinhim.Grace is the chief alms forwhichheknocksandbegssohard,atthebeautifulgateofGod'stemple;whyhegoethtothesacrament,itisthathemightgrowinsanctity;hegoethtothedeathof his Saviour, for the death of his sins; and his great design in thatspiritualfeastistofeed,thathemightgetsomemorespiritualstrength.

Nay, how contented can he be under very sad crosses, if theymay butmakehimmore like toChrist!hecanpatientlybear thepainof lancingandcutting,soitmaybutletoutcorruption.Hecantakebitterpillsfortheremovingof inwarddiseases,andthefurtheringofhissoul'shealth,andmorewillinglyspendallhehathforthecureofhisissueofsin,thaneverthewomandidforthecureofherissueofblood.Now,reader,thoushouldsthavethevesselofthysoulfilledwiththiswateroflife,onedropof which is so precious, as thou hast heard, to the regenerate. Thoushouldst have a perfection of degrees, aswell as of parts, and enjoy somuchofthesetrueriches,thatthoushouldstnotdesireonegrainmore.ThoushouldstbeabookwhereintheimageofGodshouldbewritteninafairlargeprint,andthereshouldbenoerratainthee.Sinnowisliketheivy in thewall,cut itneversomuch,yet itwill sproutoutagain;butasgrace mortifieth it here, glory shall nullify it in heaven. Wert thou inChrist, itwould be no small comfort to think the time is comingwhenthoushaltneveroffendGodmore,neverdealunkindlywithChristmore.

ThoushouldstbyblessedexperienceknowthetruthofthoseScriptures:'Whosoever is born ofGod sinneth not, for his seed remaineth in him;andhecannotsin,becauseheisbornofGod,'1John3:9.'ChristlovedhisChurch,andgavehimselfforit,thathemightsanctifyandcleanseitwiththewashingofwaterbytheword.Thathemightpresent it tohimselfagloriousChurch,nothavingspotorwrinkle,oranysuchthing;butthatitshouldbeholyandwithoutblemish,'Eph.5:25–27.

Thebodyofdeathshoulddiewiththedeathofthybody.Thoushouldstnotbetakenawayinthysins,butfromthysins.Itwouldbeimpossiblefortheetosinthere,becauseofthinehappysightofGodthere.Sinisanaversion fromGod, and conversion to the creature.Now thou shouldstenjoysuchsoul-ravishingsweetnessintheblessedGod,andthatsofully,that thou couldst not leave so excellent a good for any creature; thygraces, here in their minority and nonage, would be then in theirmaturity.

If that holinesswhich is but in part on earth,would be so beautiful inthineeyes,thatitwouldravishthineheartmorethanallthegloryofthisworld,whatwouldperfectholinessinheavenbe?

IfthepictureorimageofGodbesocomelyinitsroughdraftherebelow,ah, how lovely a piece will it be in all its perfections, when God'snovissimamanus,hislasthand,shallcomeuponitabove!1John3:2.

Secondly, Thou shouldst know what complete happiness is. Thineholinessandhappiness,liketwins,wouldgrowupandcometotheirfullagetogether;thyperfectpuritytherewouldcauseperfectpeace.Thydayoflightandgladnessinheavencouldneverbeovercastwiththesmallestcloud,becausesins, thatarethevapoursoutofwhichtheybreed,couldnotascendsohigh.Thy freedomfromevilwouldbe full, thy fruitionofgoodwouldbefull,andthereforethyfelicitymustneedsbefull.Thybodytherewouldbefreefromthediseasesanddeformitytowhichitisliable,and with which it is affected here. The errors of the first would becorrectedinitssecondedition.Abodyofvilenessshallbeabodyofglory.

Allthosemiserieswhichfrightandmolesttheenowwouldthenforsakethee.Noevildurstarrest thee,when thoushaltwalk in thepresenceofZion's King. In this thou shouldst be like irrational creatures, that thymiseryshouldendwiththylife;andinthisresembletheblessedangels,thatthoushouldstalwaysbeholdthefaceofthyFather.

Inhispresenceisfulnessofjoy.Whenthesunbeholdeththemoonwithhis full aspect, then the moon is at the full. In heaven the Sun ofrighteousnesswouldever lookupon theewithhis favourable face, insofulladegree,thatthoushouldstbeatthefullofthylightandhappiness.Godisanuniversalgood;thesoulofmanhathakindofinfiniteappetite.Itdesireth thispleasureand that treasure, andwhen ithath them, it islikeadropsicalbody,asthirstyasever;forthosecreatures,havingbutaparticularlimitedgoodness,canneversatisfy;butGodwillsupplyallthesoul'swants,becauseheisaninfiniteanduniversalgood,andanswerethallthings.

Thoushouldsteverbeatthewell-head;andthereforeneedestnotfeartheleastwant.Thineappetite therewouldbeever freshafterGod,and thysatisfactioneverfullinGod.Godwouldbetotheeanything,everything,all things which thy heart could possibly desire. God is so sweet andsatisfyingagoodtohispeopleonearth,thattheyhavefoundthelossofotherthingsabundantlymadeupinhisfavourandlove,Hab.3:16,17;1

Sam.30:6,thoughhecommunicatedhimselfbutinsmalldrops,byslowdegreesuntothem.Oh,then,whatwouldGodbetotheeinheaven,whenhewouldgivehimselfabundantlyandcontinuallyuntothysoul!Ifallthedelightful objects and pleasures which the whole creation here belowaffordethwereunitedintooneandbestoweduponthee,andthouwerttoliveathousandyearsintheenjoymentofit,thiswerenotworthonedayin God's courts in this world; much less an hour, or one moment'senjoyinghimintheotherworld.'Inhispresenceisfulnessofjoy,andathisrighthandarepleasuresforevermore,'Ps.16:11.Thoughallwordsaretooweak toutter thesaint'shappiness there,yetDavidspeaksmuch inthisverse.Forqualitythereisjoy,thereispleasure.Whatcanstthouwishwhichisnotcontainedinthosetwowords?Hopeoffuturejoymadetheman of sorrows contented under his shameful and bloody cross; howcomfortablewiltthoubewhenthoushalthaveitinhand.

Forquantity,fulnessofjoy,oratorrent,ofwhichthoushouldstdrinkfulldraughts without interruption or intermission. Thy joy would be purewithoutmixture, andperfectwithoutmeasure.TheMaster's joy, or thejoyofthyLord:inhispresence;thefruitionofGodisthefairestflowerinthegarlandofhonour,andthatalonewhichgivescompletesatisfactiontothesoul:heistheheavenofheaven,andotherthingsarebutaccessorytothisprincipal; yet other things therewouldafford comfort, through theGodofconsolation.

The sights therewould please thine eyes; for thou shouldst behold notonly perfect saints, but the peerless Saviour; thine eyes should see theKinginhisglory:thereisagreatdifferencebetweenseeingakinginhisordinary attire, and on his throne with his robes and all his signs ofmajesty. The sight of the saints wouldmuch delight thee, to see thoseheirs in the possession of their inheritances. When Cyneas, theambassador of Pyrrhus, had beheld the state and magnificence of theRomansenatorsandpeople,hewassoexceedinglytakenwithit,thatathisreturnfromthatcityofRome,beingaskedhowhelikedit,andwhathethoughtofthatstate,heanswered,thathesawasmanyemperorsassenators,and that itwasacommonwealthofkings.Suchwouldheavenbetothineeyes,—acommonwealthofemperorsandkings,whereineverysaint would have a robe of honour, a sceptre of power, a throne of

majesty, and crown of glory. Surely, such sights would fill thee withwonderandjoy,tobeholdallthechildrenintheirFather'shousesorichlyclad, sodaintily feasted, and sohighly advanced as they shall be there.ButohthejoywhichwillpossesstheeatthesightoftheLordJesus,who,astheSun,willshinegloriouslyindeedinthemidstofthosestars;andasa judge, be knownbyhis robes fromall the justices on thebench. If itweresogoodtobeholdhimhereinhisestateofhumiliation,andinhismourningweeds,whatwillitbetobeholdhiminhisestateofexaltation,andinhisbright,sparkling,andgloriousrobes?Truly,that lightwillbesweet,anditwillbepleasanttobeholdthatSun.

As the sights there would please thine eyes, so the sounds there willpleasethineears.Ihavereadofadivine,thatwhenheheardraremusicon earth, he was much taken with it, presently cried out, Oh, theravishingmusicwhich is in heaven!Howwill thy spirit be takenwhenthoushalthearthenewsong,thesongoftheLamb,sungbythepleasantvoices, and played upon the harps of the thousand thousands that arebefore the throneofGod,whorestnotdaynornight,butsayandsing,'Holy,holy,holy,LordGodAlmighty,whichwas,andis,andistocome!Thou artworthy,O Lord, to receive glory, and honour, and power: forthou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and werecreated,'Rev.4:8,11.

O how much might I expatiate here, and show thee that whatever isrequisite tohappinesswouldbe enjoyedby thee there! If honour couldmake thee happy, thou shouldst there have an eternal weight of glory,suchaweight, that if thouwertnotupheldby thepowerofGod,wouldpresstheedown.Ifpleasurescanmaketheehappy,thoushouldstdrinkoftheriversofpleasureswhichflowfromtheblessedGodforever:suchpleasuresasthineeyesneversaw,thineearsneverheard,andthineheartcan never conceive. If a gallant glorious feast could make thee happy,thoushouldstbehappy;thoushouldstdwellinacitywhosebuilderandmakerisGod,itsgatesareofpearl,anditspavementofpuregold,Rev.21:19,20.Thehousewhich thou shouldst live in, is theFather'shouse,thathousewhichthemightypossessorofheavenandearthhatherectedwithhisownhands, tobe theplacewhereinhewill shewallhis riches,magnificence,grace,goodness,andglory.Ifrestcouldmaketheehappy,

thou shouldst rest fromall thy labours, enjoy an eternal sabbath: therethespiritualoppressorsceasefromtroubling,therethewearyareatrest.Ifgoodcompanycouldmaketheehappy,thoushouldsthavethesocietyofallthesaints,sitdownwithAbraham,Isaac,andJacob,theprophets,apostles, and all the children of God in the kingdom of heaven; thoushouldst enjoy themanymillionsofholyangels, thedearestJesus, andtheeverblessedGod.Iffoodcanmaketheehappy,thoushouldsteatofthehiddenmanna, of the breadwhich camedown fromheaven, of thetree of life, which groweth in Paradise, and drink of the water of life,whichisclearascrystal,proceedingoutofthethroneofGodandoftheLamb. If life canmake thee happy, thou shouldst have that eternal lifewhich is from God, in God, and with God. In a word, whatever wereneedfulforthee,orcouldbejoyfultothee,ordesiredbythee,inordertothyhappiness,thoushouldsthaveit.

Thirdly, thoushouldstknowthevirtueandpreciousnessof thebloodofChrist:theapostledothnotwithoutcause,whenhecomparesthebloodofChristwithsilverandgold,infinitelypreferitbeforethem,andcallitpreciousblood,1Pet.1:19.Indeed,itisthatwhichisthediamondtothering, addeth worth and value to whatever it is joined to. The twotestamentsareprecious,becausetheyarebothsprinkledwiththeblood,and confirmed by the death of the testator, Heb. 9:16–19. The Lord'sSupperisprecious,becauseitshewethforththeLord'sbloodanddeath,1Cor.11:26.Pardonofsin,peaceofconscience,theaffectionoftheFather,thesanctificationoftheSpirit,areallprecious,becausetheyarethefruitsandeffectsofthispreciousblood,1John1:7;Rom.5:1;Heb.9:14;Eph.2:13. All our comforts run in this channel; the blood of Christ is thestreamwhichbears themup, andbrings them tous; yea,heaven itself,andthecrownofglory,haveweightandworthfromthissparklingstone.Heaven is a purchased possession, Eph. 1:14. It is the blood of Jesuswhich giveth boldness to enter into that holy place, Heb. 10:19. Thepreciouspricepaidforit,willspeakit,andmakeit,agloriousplace.

Ifthouwertonceregenerated,Christwouldbesoprecioustotheeatthisday, that all things would be dung and dross in comparison of theexcellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus thy Lord: 'to them thatbelieve,Christisprecious,'1Pet.2:7.OhthepricewhichtrueChristians

setuponChrist!Thewisemerchantsoldallforthispearl.IhavereadthattheDukeofBurgundyhadajewelwhichwasafterwardssoldfortwentythousand ducats. But Christ to a saint is better than silver, and moredesirable than choice gold,—more precious than rubies, yea, thanmillionsofworlds.

WhentheAthenianladieswereboastingtoPhocion'swifeoftheirjewels,shetoldthem,MyjewelsaremyhusbandPhocion.WhenAlexanderwasasked where his treasure was, he shewed them his friends. Such atreasureisJesusChristintheesteemofhisspouse,hisfriends;Christisallinall.

Thepious soul isof the samemindwithJohnofAlexandria, surnamedtheAlmoner;whenat theyear'sendhehadgivenallhehad left to thepoor, and made even with his revenues, he looks up to heaven, andthanked God that he had nothing left but his Lord and Master JesusChrist,towhomhelongedtoflywithunlimedanduntangledwings.Thefaceofnoneissocomelytothesaint'seye,thevoiceofnoneissolovelytohisears,thetasteofnothingsopleasantinhismouth,asJesusChrist.

But the Christian hath a choice room in his soul for the blood of hisSaviour:heprizeththeshamefulcrossofChristabovethemostgloriouscrownofthegreatestearthlypotentate,Gal.6:14.Thus,friend, itwouldbe with thee here, if thou wert converted, thou wouldst determine toknow nothing but Jesus Christ and him crucified. Oh the honeywhichthouwouldstsuckoutofthecarcase,thedeathofthisLionofthetribeofJudah!

WhenthoushouldstconsiderthatthisbloodofJesusChrististhatalonewhichhathsatisfiedGod'sjustice,Rom.3:25,and5:9;pacifiedhisanger,Col. 1:20; Heb. 9:14; Rev. 1:5, 6; justified thy person, sanctified thynature,removedthecurseofthelawfromthee,andtheefromtheeternalwrath of God, and unquenchable torments of hell, would it not bepreciousbloodinthineesteem?Thinkofit,whatapricethouwouldstsetupon it. But when thou shouldst for ever behold the blessed body ofChrist shining with incomprehensible beauty, far above the brightestcherub; and consider that every vein in that bodybled to bring thee toglory;when thoushouldst see thousandsandmillions inmatchlessand

endlessburnings, fromwhich thouwertdelivered,andbehold thybodymadefarmoregloriousthanthesuninhishighnoonattire,andthysoulfilledbrimfulwithunspeakablejoy;nay,everypartofthybodyandsoulenlargedtotheutmost,andfullysatisfiedwithinconceivabledelight,andthoushouldstbeconfidentandassuredtoenjoythisforever,andknowclearlyallthistobethetravailofChrist'ssoul,andthefruitofhisblood:friend, friend, what thoughts wilt thou have of the blood of Christ?Surely,itwillbepreciousbloodindeed;thouwouldsthaveothermannerof thoughts of him that camebywater andblood than thou everhadstherebelow.

Theworkofourredemptionwillbethematterofthesaints'communion,andthegreatsubjectoftheireternaladmiration.Theirdeliveryfromsin,Satan,wrath,andhell,intoastateofliberty,love,grace,andsalvation,bythebloodofJesus,will fill theireyesandheartswithwonder, love,andjoyforever.

Allthevoicesthereshallsingthissong,andalltheviolsthereshallbesetto this tune: 'Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the sealsthereof; for thou hast redeemed us to God by thy blood, out of everykindred,and tongue,andnation,andhastmadeusuntoourGodkingsand priests. And I beheld, and I heard the voice ofmany angels roundaboutthethrone,andthebeasts,andtheelders;andthenumberofthemwas ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands;sayingwith a loud voice,Worthy is theLamb thatwas slain, to receivepower,andriches,andwisdom,andglory,andblessing,'Rev.5:9–12.

IfthequeenofSheba,whenshebeheldthewisdomandmagnificenceofSolomon,wassotransportedthatthereremainednomorespirit inher,howwillthineheartbetransportedtoseetheloveandgloryofthetrueSolomon, who wept, and bled, and lived, and died to bring thee toheaven!

Fourthly,Thou shouldst knowwhatGod is; and truly thiswouldbenosmall part of thy felicity. Knowledge is the excellency of a man, anddifferenceth him from a brute. Divine knowledge is the excellency of aChristian,anddifferencethhimfromaheathen.Theknowledgeofhumanthings hath been so highly esteemed by some of the heathen that they

haveprofessed theywouldgive theirwholeestates toenjoy theirbookswithoutinterruption.Whatthenistheknowledgeofdivinethingsworth?Aristotle saith that a little knowledge of heavenly things, though butconjectural,isbetterthanmuchcertainknowledgeofearthlythings:whatthenistheknowledgeoftheGodofheavenworth?Theexcellencyoftheobjectdothmuchdignifytheact.

Inthisworldthoucanstseebutalittleofhim,thysightissoweak;buttherethoushouldstseehimasheis,1John3:3.NowtheChristianratherseethandknowethGodashe isnot thanashe is:wedescribehim(forindeedhe is infinitelyabovealldefinitions)bywayofnegation, tobeaspirit,infinite,unchangeable,andthelike,whichparticularstelluswhatGodisnot.Heisaspirit,thatis,abeingwithoutabody;forGodisnotaspirit as the souls of men and as angels are; I mean, not of such asubstance.TheSpiritofGodinthatexpression,'Godisaspirit,'John4,condescendeth toourcapacities,becausewearenotable toconceiveofthenatureoftheblessedGodasheisinhimself:thereforetheHolyGhostdothspeakofGodbythemostexcellentbeingswhichourunderstandingsreach,asspiritsare;forGodisquestionlesssuchaspiritualbeingasisfarabove themostenlargedunderstanding.Besides,wearesocloggedandpinionedwith flesh thatwe know but little, yea, very little, of our ownspirits, much less what a spirit God is. But there thou shouldst, ifconverted, know him fully, thy understanding should be enlarged andsatisfied.

Thosescaleswhichnowhangaboutthineintellectualeyeshouldthenfalloff,andthouthatdidstbeholdhimuponearthintheglassofhisgospel,shouldst then see him face to face; as the sun doth by his beams andbrightnesssoenlightentheeyeandairthatweseetherebynotonlyothercreatures,but itsownmostgloriousbody; soGodwould,by thebeamsandbeautyofhismajesty,so irradiate thymind, that thoushouldstseeboththecomelinessofhiscreaturesandthebrightnessofhisownbeing.

Thou shouldst know the great mystery of the Trinity, the love of theFather, thewisdomof theSon, the sweet fellowshipof theHolyGhost.That riddle which now puzzleth thee should there be unfolded; thoushouldstknowhow theFatherbegat theSon,how theSpiritproceededfromFather andSon, and thedifferencebetween the generationof the

SonandprocessionoftheSpirit.

ThoushouldstknowGodintheunityofhisnature.Nowthesaintsknowhimmost by his attributes, which indeed differ not all from his being;they are but different manifestations of one undivided essence, anddistinguishedbyusforourbetterunderstandingofthedivinenature;buttheyareallthesameinhimandinthemselves,andthenweshallknowso.

Thoushouldstknowthehypostaticalunion,John14:20;howtheSonofGodbecame theSonofman; thatwonderofwonders,Emmanuel,Godwith us, God andman in one person, would be clearly seen; all thoseknotswouldbeuntied;thoushouldstthenploughwithGod'sheifers,andunderstandallhisriddles;thoushouldstknowallthingsinGodthatwereto be known, in a full manner, in a large measure, to thine infinitecomfortandcontent.Thoushouldstknowall this,andfarmore, forthygood.

IfalittleknowledgeofGodherebesopleasanttothesoul,thoughitbebutaglimpseofhiminthedawningofthemorning,whatsatisfactionwillthe complete knowledge of him yield, to see that sun at noonday! Ps.19:10.IfitbelifeeternaltoknowGodandJesusChristimperfectly,whatwill itbe toknow themperfectly, and soas to enjoy them fully?Surelysuch instruction will be better than silver, and such knowledge thanchoice gold; this wisdom is better than rubies, and all that thou canstdesireisnottobecomparedtoit.

Howmuchhavemanywastedtheirwealth,driedtheirbrains, laceratedtheirbodies,foralittleknowledgeofnature,which,whentheyhadgoneto theirutmost,couldnotsatisfy them?Theymightassoonhavebroketheir necks as their fasts by such knowledge. But of what inestimablevalueistheknowledgeoftheGodofnature, istheknowledgeofhiminChristhere?andoh,ofwhatincomparableworthwillitbetoknowofhimaswe are known of him, to see him face to face? This will be withoutquestionthebeatificalvision.

Fifthly,Thou shouldst know the extent and truthof all thepromises intheword,whichconcernthywelfareintheotherworld.Howvariousand

howpreciousarethepromiseswhichrelatetoheaven!Godpromisethhischildren,suchasarebornofhim,largeportionswhentheyshallcometoage, unto themeasure of the stature of the fulness of Christ; and thoushouldst then find that God will make good his word to a tittle. Hepromiseth that 'theyshall rest fromtheir labours,and theirworks shallfollowthem';thattheyshallbe'beforethethrone,andservehimdayandnightinhistemple,andhethatsittethonthethroneshalldwellamongthem;thattheyshallhungernomore,northirstanymore,neithershallthesunlightonthem,noranyheat;fortheLamb,whichisinthemidstofthethrone,shallfeedthem,andshallleadthemuntolivingfountainsofwaters,andGodshallwipeawayall tears from their eyes,'Rev.7:3–17.Hepromiseththat 'theyshallbewithChristwhereheis,andbeholdhisglory,'John17:24.That theyshallbeclothed inwhite raiment,andnotblotted out of the book of life, but confessedbefore theFather and theholyangels,Rev.2:7,11,and3:5.Christpromiseth,'HimthatovercomethwillImakeapillarinthetempleofmyGod,andheshallgonomoreout;andIwillwriteuponhimthenameofmyGod,andthenameofthecityofmyGod,whichisNewJerusalem;andIwillwriteuponhimmynewname,'Rev.3:12.Thattheywhich'overcomeshallsitdownwithhimonhisthrone,evenashehathovercome,andissetdownwithhisFatheronhisthrone,'Rev.3:21; lookPs.16:11,and17:15;Rom.8:18;2Cor.5:1;1Cor.13:12;Mat.18:11;1Pet. 1:4;Phil.3:21;1Thes.4:2,18;1John3:2;Eph.5:25,26.

All these promises, andmanymore, shall be fully accomplished. Thereshallnotonegoodthingofall that theLordhathspokenbeunfulfilled.TheexpectationofthepromiseshathfilledseveralofGod'schildrenwithecstaciesandravishmentsofspirit;what joy thenwill thepossessionofthem bring? The very thought of a promise hath made them, likeLeviathan, to laughat the shakingof spears, at the threateningof theiradversaries, nay, to kiss stakes, and smile at fire and faggots. Oh thenwhatwilltheperformancebe?Thepromisesarelarge,butourstraitenedmindscannotunderstandtheirbreadth;butthenhappyexperienceshallteach us their full latitude; they are now like bones which have thesweetestmeatuponthem,andthesweetestmarrowinthem;butwearenot able here to pick them clean, nor to suck out half themarrow; butthenweshall tasteandenjoyeverythinginthem.Nowwhenwereadof

drinking of the rivers ofGod's pleasures, of dwelling in his house, of akingdom,andthrones,andsceptres,andpalms,andcrownsofglory,andreigningwithChrist for ever and ever, ourhearts are ready to faint, asJacobatthenewsofhisson'shonourinEgypt,andasthequeenofShebaatthenewsofSolomon'swisdom,believeditnot,sowe.What,Godlookupon such sinksof sin, such clodsof clayasweare, andmakeourvilebodieslikeuntothegloriousbodyofhisSon,andoursoulslikeuntohisblessedmajesty, in holiness, beauty, and delight! Ohwhat arewe, andwhatourfather'shouses,thatGodshoulddoanythingforus?AsPerillus,when Alexander promised his daughter fifty talents for her portion,crieth,itwastoomuch,tenweresufficient;andwhenDavidsenttotakeAbigailtowife,shewonderedatit,shecounteditanhonourtowashthefeetofhisservants,itwastoomuchtobehiswife;sowecannotbutcountit a favour towait upon his servants, to be his doorkeepers, and standwithout;itistoomuch,wethink,tobemarriedtoChrist,theeternalSonofGod,andtodwellinthehouseoftheLordforever.Wecanhardlybepersuaded that God will thus dignify such worthless worms; but thenseeing and enjoying will be believing. Then we shall say, it was a truereport which I heard in the lower world what God would do for poorcreatures in heaven; howbeit I believed not till I came, andmine eyeshave seen it, and behold the half was not told me; my glory and joyexceedeththefamewhichIheard.

Sixthly,Thoushouldstenjoyalltheforementionedgoodthings,andmorethan I can speakor thou think,without intermission, interruption, andfor ever.Thegood thingsof this life are intermitted,partlyby contraryandevilthings,asourhealthlostbysickness,ourwealthbywant;partlybynecessarydiversions:thebodymusthavesleep,andthenwelosethecomfort of the creatures: but there thy day of comfort should never beovercast, for all tearswill bewiped from thineeyes, and thy fruitionofGod should be without intermission; thou shouldst ever stand in hispresenceandbeholdhisface;thoushouldsteverbewiththeLord,1Thes.4:16.Hadstthouhereaconfluenceofallcomforts,yet,becausethylifeisshort, thy joycouldnotbe long;but therethy lifewillbeaneverlastinglife,andthyjoythereforeeverlastingjoy. 'Iwillseeyouagain,andyourhearts shall rejoice, and your joy shall no man take from you,' saithChrist,John16.

Eternity will perfect thy felicity indeed. It is a boundless duration,without intermission and end. Suppose that all the vast space betweenheaven and earth were filled with sand, and once every ten thousandyearsabirdcameandcarriedawayacrumbinherbill,whatalongwhileit would be before this vast heap would be carried quite away. Butsupposeafterthebirdhaddonethat,itwastocomeeverytenthousandyears,andtakeonedropofwateroutofthesea,whatawhilewoulditbebeforeitcouldemptytheocean!Butafterall thisthoushouldsthaveaslong to continue in thy joy and delights, as at thy first entering intoheaven.

IfthoushouldsthavebutoneglimpseofGodashewaspassingbythee,asMoses had, it were a happiness beyond all that this world can givethee; but thou shalt there not have a transient view, but a permanentvision of God. Thy God would not pass by, but stand still, that thoushouldstneverlosethesightofhim.Whentheobjectwouldbesolovely,andtheactsolasting,wouldnotthyspiritbecheerfulandlively?Asthedamned shall bewithout all hope ever to be released of their pains, sothoushouldstbewithoutallfearevertobedeprivedofthypleasures.Ohwho would not serve such a Master, that giveth, after poor imperfectworksdone forhim,such infiniteeternalrewards?It isbottomless loveindeedwhichgivethsuchaboundlesslife.

Thus, reader, I have given thee a taste of that of which thou, ifregenerated, should have a full draught.Whilst thou continuest in thisworld,thoushouldstbeablessedsoul—blessedinthybody,inthysoul,inthycalling,estate,relations,children,andname.AlltheprovidencesofGodshouldbeprofitabletothee;inallthyperformancesthoushouldstbeacceptabletoGod,andalltheordinancesofGodshouldfurtherthygood;thepreciouspromises—oneofwhichexcels thewholeworld—shouldallbethyportion.Whenthouenterestintotheotherworld,thoushouldstbeaglorious saint; thou shouldstbeperfectlyholy and infinitelyhappy intheknowledgeof theblessedGod, in finding the incomparable fruitsofChrist's blood, and in experiencing the extent and certainty of God'spromises;andthoushouldstenjoyallthis,notforayear,oranage,orforamillon of ages, but for ever, ever, ever.Nowwhat sayest thou to thissubjectofconsideration?Hastthounotunspeakablecause,byanhearty

marriage,toclosewiththeSonofGod,andaccepthimforthyLordandhusband, when he offereth such matchless privileges here, and such aheavenlyjointurehereafter?GoodLord,isitpossibleformantobesuchan enemy to his soul as to neglect such great salvation?What a hardstoneistheheartofman,thatneithermiserynormercycanmoveit.Ahfriend, thou art bewitched indeed, if neither the wonderful woe of theunregenerate,northeunheard-ofwealoftheregenerate,canprevailwiththee.

But before thou readest farther, make a pause, and consider what isincludedinthesetwosubjectsofconsideration.Theheathentellusthatsuch as cannot be persuaded by profit or disprofit are unpersuadable.Thinkofit:hereisthegreatestadvantageimaginable,ifthouwiltturntoChrist; here is the greatest damage conceivable, if thou continuest inthineungodlycourse.Surelythouartresolveduponthineeternalruin,orsuchreasonsasthesearewillreformthee.

Ponderthisseriously.IfthourefusesttheLordJesusasthySaviourandSovereign,thouartacursed,damnedsinner;ifthouacceptesthim,thouartablessed, savedcreature. In theonescale there ishell, in theotherscale there is heaven; upon the turning of either is the turning of thyprecious soul, itsmaking ormarring for ever. If thouwilt not embraceChristuponhisownconditions,thysoulislost.Ohthelossofasoul!ThyGod, thy heaven is lost.Oh the loss of aGod!No eye ever saw greaterlosses;allotherlossesarenothingtothese.Ifthoudost,thysoulissaved.Howsweetisthatword,saved!ThyGod,thyheavenisgained.Othegainof a God! How savoury is that sentence! Read it again. If thou takestChrist,thyGodisgained.Dostthouknowwhatisincludedinthegainofa God? No, nor all the men on earth, nor all the saints and angels inheaven.Thereneverwassuchagainbeforeit,norevershallbeafter it.Ah,whowouldnotwade through thickand thin for suchagain?Whatsayestthou?Shallnotthingsofsuchconcernmentasthesearestirthee?

ItisreportedofAdrianus,anofficerunderMaximianusthetyrant,that,beholdingtheconstancyof themartyrs,hewasearnest toknowwhat itwaswhich carried them throughwith somuch courage.One of them—therebeing twoand twentyat that timeunder the tormentor'shands—answered,'Eyehathnotseen,earhathnotheard,neitherhathitentered

intotheheartofmantoconceivewhatGodhathpreparedforthemthatlove him,' 1 Cor. 2:9; upon the hearing of which words Adrian wasconverted, and sealed the truth with his blood. Thou hast heardmuchmoreconcerningthehappinessofthesaintsintheotherworldthanoneverseofScripture.Howartthoutakenwithit?Doththejoytherenothingaffect thine heart, nor enlarge it in sallies out after it. O that joy, thatglory,thathouse,thateternalheavenweremine!Dothitnothingresolvetheeagainstsin,andforChrist?AnswerGodinthyconscience.

Somewritethatforty-oneofAlexander'sfriendsdrunkthemselvesdeadforacrownofgoldofonehundredandeightypoundsweight,whichthekingprovidedforthemwhichdrankmost.Godoffereththeeacrownofglory, not corruptible, as silver and gold are, but eternal. Art thou notashamedthatthoseswaggerersshouldcursedlylosetheirlivesandsoulsfor a fading crown,when thouwilt not leave thy lusts, thy sins, for anever-flourishingcrownofglory?

O man, bethink thyself whilst thou hast time, and do not, as profaneEsau,preferthymessofpottagebeforethesespiritualprivilegesandtheeternal purchase. Cleopatra, the Egyptian princess, told MarcusAntonius,whenshesawhimspendinghistimevainlyandmeanly,muchbelow the quality of a prince, It is not for you to fish for gudgeons ortrouts,but for towns,andcities,andcastles,andkingdoms.Sosay I tothee,Itisnotfortheetoliespendingthytimeandstrength,andbeatingthineheadandheart,foranhoardofdustoranheapofearth,whichshallshortly take its leave of thee, but for the spiritual riches, for durablerichesandrighteousness.Itisnotfortheetobusythyselfabouttoysandtrifles,butabout the imageofGod, thebloodofChrist, thecovenantofgrace, thekingdomofheaven, theeternalweightof glory.Oh theseareworthy of all thoughts, and words, and actions, of all thy time, andstrength,andhealth—ofallthynameandestate,andinterestwhatsoever.

If thou art a rational creature, let reason prevail with thee, and shewthyselfamanofunderstanding.ItwasthecustomformerlyinEnglandtotryonethatwasbeggedforafool,inthismanner:Anappleoracounter,with a piece of gold, was set before him. If he take the apple or thecounter, he is cast for a fool in the judgment of the court, as one thatknowethnotthetruevalueofthings,orhowtomakechoiceofwhatwas

best for him. Truly thus it is with thee. God setteth before thee thecountersandcarnalcomfortsofthisworld,thetruegoldandunutterablehappinessoftheotherworld;nay,helayethbeforetheetheeternalpainsofhell,andtheeternalpleasuresofheaven, to trywhichthouwilt take.Now, if thou wilt take a poor portion below, and leave the purchasedpossession above; if thouwilt, to abide in thy sensual lusts, choose thetormentsofhell,andrefuse,bynotsubmittingtotheruleofChrist, thejoysofheaven,artthounotafoolingrain?Surelythedevilwillbegtheeforafoolforever;thereforeshewthyselfwise,bychoosingthatwhichisofgreatestworth.'Icallheavenandearthtorecordthisdayagainstthee,thatIhavesetbeforetheelifeanddeath,blessingandcursing;thereforechooselife,thatboththouandthyseedmaylive,'Deut.30:19.

CHAPTERXIV

Thethirdsubjectofconsideration,theexcellencyofregeneration

Thirdly,ConsidertheexcellencyofthatwhichtheLordrequirethoftheefortheavoidingofthateaseless,endlessmiseryofthedamned,andtheattainingtheunspeakableandunchangeablefelicityofthesaved.

Reader,IpraytheespeaktoGodinthineheart,andtellhimwhatisthereasonthouartsowillingtogotohell,andsounwillingtogotoheaven.Sure I am, as thou art a living creature,muchmore as a rationalman,thou hast a natural inclination and propensity toward thine own goodand felicity, and therefore thou canst not love hell directly, as it istorturing and racking of thy soul and body, though thou dost love iteventually, as it is the end of thy fleshly, ungodly life. Well, I willundertake for once to dive into thine heart, and tell the reason of thybackwardnesstowardsheaven,andthyforwardnessforhell.Thereasonisthis,thoulookestonthepowerofgodlinessasdistastefultothyflesh,ordisgracefultothyname;theyokeofChrististoostrict.Itisnottheendthat displeaseth thee—thou couldst contentedly be happy—but it is thenarrownessoftheway,andthestraitnessofthegate,withwhichthouartdissatisfied;itwillnotaffordtheeroomenoughforthybelovedlusts.Isit

not so?Let conscience speak.Well, I hopeby thehelp ofGod tomaketheeofanothermind,whenthouhastthoroughlyreadthisheadwhichIamnowwritingof.

ItisthesayingofPlato,thatifmoralphilosophycouldbeseenwithmoraleyes, it would draw all men's hearts after it. Sure, sure I am, that ifregeneration,or thedivinenature,were seenwithdivineeyes, itwoulddrawmen'shearts,andheads,andhands,andall,after it.All thateverstruckatitdiditinthedark.'Theyspakeevilofthingswhichtheyknewnot.'

Reader,what is thatwhichGodrequirethof thee? Is itnot to leave thyslaverytoSatan,thybondagetosin,andtoacceptandenjoythegloriouslibertyofthesonsofGod?Isitnotthatthoushouldstbedivorcedfromsin, that misshapenmonster, and spawn of the devil, whose person isdeformed,whosecompany isdefiling,andwhoseportion isdamnation;and that thou shouldst be married to Jesus Christ, the fairest of tenthousand,theheirofallthings,whowouldadorntheewiththejewelsofhisgraces,beautifytheewiththeembroideryofhisSpirit,washtheewithhisownblood,arraytheewithhisownrighteousness,andpresenttheetohisFatherwithoutspot,tobeblessedinhisfullimmediateenjoymentforever?Is itnot that thoushouldstceasethydrudgerytohell's jailor, liveabove the perishing profits, brutish pleasures, empty honours of theworldand flesh,and that thoushouldstwalkafter theSpirit,walkwithGod,warmthineheartattheflameofhislove,bathethysoulinangelicaldelights,havethyconversationinheavenhere,andthyhabitationtherehereafter? Is not this, man, the sum and substance of what the Lordrequirethofthee?andartthounotshrewdlyhurt?wouldnotthesethingsexceedinglyinjurethee?IsnotGodahardmastertodesiresuchthingsofthee?Ah,didstthoubutknowtheworthofthem,hadstthoueverbeheldtheir excellency, or tasted the comfort which is in them, thou wouldstscorn this lowerworld,with all its pomp, andpride, andpleasures, forthem,andbefoolthyselftopurposeforeverrefusingorneglectingthem.

I shall endeavour, in some fewparticulars, to shew thee theworth andexcellencyofthattowhichthouartsounwilling,andpossiblythoumaysttherebybeconvincedof thymadnessand folly instickingat thatwhichwould be thine honour and felicity. Pliny saith, that an exact face can

never be drawn but with much disadvantage. Without doubt,regeneration,orthenewcreation,canneitherbeadmirednordeclaredbyany, no, nor by all the saints on earth, according to itsworth. It is thebeauty,glory,andwonderofsaintsandangelsinheaven.

First, Regeneration is the image of God, who is an infinite and mostperfectgood.Here,friend,atfirstflightIsoarhigh.Onewouldthink,ifIshould speak nomore in commendation of it, here is enough to ravishthine heart with admiring it for ever; it is the picture of God's ownperfections. 'Put on the new man, which after God is created inrighteousness and trueholiness,'Eph.4:24.As it is the same light thatshinethforthinthemorningwhichshinethforthinthebodyofthesuninitsmeridian,so it isthesameholinessthatshinethinitsdegreesintheChristian, which shineth in perfection in God, Heb. 1:3; Rom. 8.Regenerationwouldmaketheepure,asGodispure;God'swillistherule,andhisnaturethepatternofthesaints'holiness.Thecoinhaththeimageand impression of the king; Christ is the express image of his Father'sperson, and the saints are conformable to the image of his Son. ThechurchisChristunfolded,Christisnotamonster;theheadandmembersarehomogeneal,liketoeachother.

Byreasonmanexcellethbeasts,byholinessheexcellethhimself,inferioronly to the angels in degree, andmade like unto the Lord, as far as acreaturemaybetohisCreator.

Now, how excellent is the image of God! The picture of a king isesteemed, and valued at a high rate; butwhat is the picture of aGod?Some say that the naked body ofman was so glorious in his estate ofinnocency that all thebeastsof the field admired it, and thereupondidhomage to him. O how beautiful and glorious is his soul become byregeneration,theimageofGod,thatbothsaints,angels,andJesusChrist,are taken with it, and wonder at it! He that would not hear when thedisciples were speaking and wondering at the building of the materialtemple,butcontemnedit,didbothhear,see,andadmire,atonepieceofthis spiritual temple; when Jesus heard the centurion's words, 'hemarvelled,andsaidtothemthatfollowedhim,Ihavenotfoundsogreatfaith,no,notinIsrael,'Matt.8:10,15,28.Nay,Christissotakenwithitthathisheart is ravishedand lostwith it;he isbeheartedwith it,Cant.

4:9,10.

It is observable that the blessed God, after every day's work in thecreationof theworld, takesaviewofwhathehadmade,he saw itwasgood, Gen. 1; but when he hadmademan the sixth day after his ownimage,andthentookareviewofhisworks,andsaweverything thathehad made, behold it was very good, or extreme good; so good that itcaused delight and complacency in God, and called for wonder andcontemplation fromman. 'Behold it was very good.' No doubt but themakingofmansonobleandholydid,aboveall thevisiblecreatures,soaffecttheheartofGod,thathelikedthehousemuchthebetterbecauseofsorareaninhabitantwhichhehadmadetodwellinit.Thereforewhenhehadmademan,hemadenomore,manbeingsofairapiece,suchcuriousworkmanship,thattheinfiniteGodresolvedtorestanddelightinhim.Sowhenhecreatethasoul inChristJesusuntogoodworks,Eph.2:20,herejoiceth over his newworkmanshipwith exceeding joy, and resteth inhislove,Zeph.3:17.Butwhenheshallfinishhisnewcreation—forhewillprint man's holiness in the second edition in a larger letter and fairercharacterthanitwasatfirst—andbringitforthintheotherworld,itwillinfinitelysurpassthestatelyfabricofheavenandearth.Andohhow,howwillittake,notonlyperfectspirits,buteventheGodofthespiritsofallflesh!Friend,canthatbe less thaneminentlyexcellentwhichdoththusravishtheheartofGodhimselfwithadmirationatit,andaffectiontoit?Wouldthistendtothydishonourordisadvantage,tobemadelikeuntohimwhoisthefoundationandoceanofallexcellenciesandperfections?

Secondly, Regeneration is the destruction of sin, the greatest evil,therefore it must needs be excellent. Contraries put together willillustrate one another; the baseness and loathsomeness of sinwill be agoodfoiltosetoffthebeautyandlovelinessofgrace.ForwhichcauseIshallspeakthemoretothefilthinessofsin;forasthebetteranygoodis,themoreexcellentitistobefullofit;sotheworseanyevilis,themoreexcellentitistobefreefromit.Besides,dyingtosinbeingoneessentialpartofregeneration,Ishallnotatalldigress.

Now,sinisthegreatestevilintheworld;therewasnonelikeitbeforeit,norevershallbeafterit.Thisbratofthedevilissovileandabominablethat it isveryhardto findoutanamesuitable to itsuglynature.Those

termsbywhich it is called, of leprosy, spot, plague, vomit,mire, scum,ulcers, issues, dead carcase, exhalation from a grave, the vessel intowhich nature emptieth itself, filthiness, superfluity of naughtiness, thepollutionofanew-borninfant,andmanymore;theseallcomefarshortofshewingthepoisonousevilwhichisinsin.Thereforetheapostle,whenhechristensthischildofdisobedience,callsitbyitssirname,'thatsinbythe commandment might appear exceeding sinful,' Rom. 7:13. Theapostle theredothdischarge the law, and charge all uponhis own lust,which by the commandment takes occasion, as water at a bridge thatstops and hinders it, to rage themore; or possibly, as a foul face by aglass,sosinbythecommandmentappearedtobeexceedingsinful.Mark,theapostledothnot say that sinby theglassof the lawappeared tobeexceedingfoulandfilthy,orexceedingdeformedandugly,orexceedinghellishordevilish,butexceedingsinful;thisincludesallthem,andmuchmore.Had he studied a thousand years for a name, he could not havecalleditbyaworsenamethanitsown,sinfulsin.

Luther saith that could aman but see perfectly the evil of his sins onearth,itwouldbeahelltohim,suchafrightfuluglymonsterissin.

Look on sinwhichway thouwilt, and it is exceeding sinful, the evil ofevils.

Take it in itsnature, it isadeviationfromGod's law,awanderingfromhis word, a casting his law behind the back; the law is straight, sin iscrookedness, Ps. 125:5. The law is holy, sin is defilement,Rom. 7:12; 2Cor. 7:1. The law is just, sin is unrighteousness, 1 John 1:7. The law isliberty, sin is bondage, James2:8, 12; 2Tim.2:26. Sin is a defacingofGod's image; it blots andblurs that fair andbeautifulwriting, not onlymeritoriously,asitprovokesGodtowithdrawhisgrace,butphysically,asone contrary expels another. Hereby it dishonours God's name, andreproachethhismajesty,Num.15:30;Rom.2:23,24;2Sam.12:12;Lev.12:2;Zech.11:8;Rom.8:7;Rom.1:30;1Sam.15:23;Isa.1:2;Rom.6:16;Ps.14:1;forwhatgreaterdisgracecanbedonetoaprincethantotreadhisordersunderfoot,andtear,andscratch,anddefacehispicture?

Nay,itisadefyingandfightingagainstGod,awalkingcontrarytohim,adaring of him; it is enmity against him, loathing him, hatred of him,

contrariety to him; it is against his sovereignty, and so is rebellion;against his mercy, and so is unkindness; against his justice, and so isunrighteousness;againsthiswisdom,andsoisfolly;againsthiswill,andsoisstubbornness.Wereitstrongenough,itwouldungodhim;werethesinner'spoweraccordingtohiscorruptheart,hewouldpluckGodoutofheaven. IwouldIwereaboveGod,saithSpira.Whenthebodyofsin isnailedasathiefonthecross,yeteventhenitwillrage,ashe,andspitoutpoisonagainstheaven.

Reader,canstthoufindinthinehearttohugandembracesuchatraitoragainstthegraciousandblessedGod?'TostretchoutthinehandagainstGod,'aseverysinnerdoth,'andstrengthenthyselfagainsttheAlmighty?'Job15:25.StretchoutthinehandagainstGod?NomanshouldliftupawordagainstGod;ourmouthsshouldshewforthhispraise.StretchoutthinehandagainstGod?nomanshouldliftupathoughtagainstGod;ourmeditations of him should be for him. Stretch out thine hand againstGod? every man should bow down and worship before God, and besatisfied inwhatever he saith and doth. Stretch out thine hand againstGod?thouartboundtostretchoutthineheart,andhand,andtongue,tothink,andspeak,andact,andallforGod;andalllittleenough.

Takesin in itseffect,andwhatevil is like it? It is thecauseofallotherevils. Dost thou consider the emptiness, vanity, and vexation in thecreatures? Eccles. 1:3; the heavens fighting against man, the earthbearing thorns and briers; the diseases in men's bodies, the burningfever,waterydropsy, aching teeth, running gout, racking stone, rentingcolic,thequiveringlips,tremblingloins,ghastlylooksofdyingmen;thehorrorsofconscience,flashesoftheinternalfire,cursesofthelaw,wrathofGod,tormentsofhell;allthesearethefruitsofsin.Allmiserycallethsin mother; this is the root of bitterness upon which they grow: 'Thewages of sin is death,' Rom. 6:21, 23, and 5:12. That big-bellied worddeath hath all thesewoeful brats in its belly, and sin is the father thatbegatthem.SinturnedAdamoutofparadise,angelsintodevils,Sodomand Gomorrah into ashes, flourishing families, cities, kingdoms, intoruinousheaps;sinshutsheavenagainstman,laidthefoundationofthatdarkvaultofhell; sinkindled the fireofhell; sin feeds itwith fuel,andwillkeepitburningforever.Ohwhatanevilissin!whowouldnothateit

morethanhell!

Isitgoodtoplaywithsuchfireassinis?Didstthoubelievesintobethecauseofallthis,thouwouldstneveropenthyheartormouthmoreforit.Dost thouknow thataswhere theeffect is good, the cause isbetter; sowhere the effect is bad, the cause isworse? Can there beworse effectsthaneternalseparationfromGod,andsufferingthevengeanceofeternalfire?Howbadissin,then,whichisthecauseofthem!

Take sin as a punishment, and it is the evil, the only evil there is nosufferingliketothis,tobegivenuptoacourseofsinning.Reader,takeheedofcontinuinganhour longer in thineungodlypractices; itmaybethouhastbeenreadytothinkitagreathappinesstosinwithoutcontrol,to run in the road of the flesh, and to meet with no rubs, to prosperthough thouartwicked. I tell thee,and thinkof it the longestday thoulivest, for it highly concerneth thee, that the infiniteGod never claps amoredreadfulcurseonanymanorwoman,onthissidehell,thantogivethemup to sin. IfGod should give thee up to the sword, famine,mostpainfuldiseases,tothymostcruel,potent,andmaliciousenemies,toberackedbythematpleasure,thesewerenothingtothis,tobegivenuptoonesin.WhenGodhathusedhisrods,scourgingmen,andtheywillnotreform,thenhetakesthisaxe,andpresentlyexecutionfolloweth.TobedelivereduptothepowerofmenmaybethelotofGod'ssons,buttobedelivereduptothepowerofsinistheportionofrebelsandreprobates.

ThisisthestingingwhipwithwhichGodpunishethEphraim.Ephraimisjoinedtoidols,thereishisimpiety,2Tim.3:13;2Thes.2:10,11.Butwhatgrievouspunishment shallhehave forhisGod-provoking idolatry? 'Lethimalone,'Hosea4:17.Itisnot,Iwillsendtheragingpestilence,orcruelfamine,orbloodysword,butheisjoinedtoidols,lethimalone;Iwillnothave him disturbed or molested, but he shall have his will, though itprovehiseverlastingwoe,Rom.1:21,22;Ps.81:11,12;Hosea8:11.

ItisawoewithawitnessforGodtoletthylusts,likesomanyravenouslions,looseuponthee,andtolaythereinsofthysinsuponthyownneck.WereadofonedelivereduptoSatan,yethewassaved,1Cor.5comparedwith2Cor.7;butneverofanydelivereduptotheirsins,but theyweredamned.

It was a sad sight which Abraham saw, when he beheld flakes of firerained fromheavenupon theSodomites;but itwasa sadderwhichLotbeheldwhenhesawthefireofhellburningintheirhearts,andbreakingoutintheirlives,andhisrighteoussoulwasvexedtherewith.

Reader,haveacarethatthouneverinthyheartpleadmoreforsin;whowouldopenhismouthforsuchamonster,whenthere isnoevil like it?Doth God offer thee anything to thy hurt, when he would make aseparationbetweenthysoulandthysins?dothhedesireanythingtothydisadvantagewhenhedesireththeetogiveabillofdivorcetosin,whichisthesourceofallsorrows, theonlyenemyofthybest friend;theever-blessed God, and to be given up to which is the greatest plague andpunishment on this side hell? Tell me, is not regeneration excellent,which killeth such venomous serpents, which executeth such traitors,which mortifieth these earthly members, and dasheth these brats ofBabylonagainstthewall!

Thirdly, The price paid for this pearl doth loudly speak its excellency.Reader,littledostthouthinkwhatregenerationcost.Itellthee,andthoumayestwellwonderatit,theSonofGodcamefromheaven,sufferedtheboundlessrageofdevils,andinfinitewrathofGod,inman'snature,uponthis very errand, to purchase regeneration and sanctification for poorsinners. Read and admire: 'Forasmuch as ye know that ye were notredeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vainconversation;butwiththepreciousbloodofChrist,asofalambwithoutblemishandwithoutspot,'1Pet.1:18,19.Seetheworthof thiswarebythatwhich it cost, thepreciousbloodofChrist; surely itwas a jewel ofinestimable value which the Son of God thought worth his preciousblood.

As lightly as thou thinkest of the death of sin, and the life ofrighteousness,theLordJesusunderwentmorethananyoneinhellfeels,tobuythemofhisFatherforthesonsofmen.Ah,noneknowethbutGodandChristwhatitcosttobuyoffman'sdebtsandguilt,andtoprocureanewstockofholinessforhispoorbankruptcreaturetosetupwithagain.'Who his own self bare our sins in his body on the tree, thatwe beingdeadtosinmightliveuntorighteousness,'1Pet.2:24.Hadmankepthisoriginal purity, the Lord Jesus might have spared all his pains. The

secondAdamcametorestorethatjeweltoman,ofwhichthefirstAdamrobbedhim,Tit.2:14;John10:10.Thisrarejewel,thischoicemercy,wasregenerationandholiness,andthisChrist looksuponasthefullrewardofhissufferings.'Heshallseethetravailofhissoul,andbesatisfied,'Isa.53:11.Thetruthis,Christhadexceedinghardlabour—theGreekfatherscall it unknown sufferings; he had many a bitter pang, many a sharpthroe;but for joy thatchildrenarebornofGod, that those throesbringforthanumerousissueofnewcreatures,heforgetshissorrows.'Heshallseethetravailofhissoul,andbesatisfied.'

Consider,friend,didChristesteemregenerationworthhisbloodtomeritit,and is itnotworth thyprayers,and tears,andutmostendeavours toobtainit?DidChristcometodestroytheworksofthedevil,whichissin,1 John 3:8, andwilt thou build them up?Did the Lord Jesus come tobuildup the templeofholiness, andwilt thoupull it down?DidChristthinkitworththewhiletobereproached,condemned,crucified,andalltomaketheeholy,andwiltthoubesuchanenemytothecrossofChrist,asbycontinuinginsintodeprivehimofthatwhichheearnedsodearly?WhywiltthoubindthyselftobeaslavetoSatan,whenheredeemedtheewithsuchavastsum?

DidthemercifulGodsendhisSonintotheworldtoblessthee,inturningtheefromthineiniquity,andcanstthoulookuponthatgreatblessingasthybondage?Acts3:26.Believeit,Godhadservantsenough,evenangelsthatareeverreadytodohiswill,tosendordinarygiftsby;surelythenitwas some extraordinary present that he thought noneworthy to carry,andwouldtrustnonewithbuthisonlySon.God'senthimtoblessyouinturningeveryoneofyou fromyour iniquities.' Ihope, reader, thouwilthavehigherthoughtsofholiness,andworsethoughtsofsinallthydays.SurelytheSonofGodwasnotsoprodigalofhismostpreciousblood,astopouritoutforanythingthatwasnotsuperlativelyexcellent.

Fourthly, Regeneration, and the renewing of man, will appear to beexcellent,inthatitisthegreatendofGodinhisworks.Themorenobleanybeingis,themoreexcellentendsitpropoundstoitselfinitsworking.Thenceitisthatamanhathhigherendsthanabeast;theendsofabeastare only to please sense, but the ends of a man are to satisfy hisunderstanding.Hence, also, the ends of a Christian aremore excellent

thantheendsofothermen;hisbeingismorenoble,andsoarehisends—to please, glorify, and enjoyGod.How excellent then is thatwhich theinfinitely perfect God makes his end! Surely the Most High cannotpropoundany lowends inhis operations.He that is theonlywiseGodmusthaveeminentdesignsandends.

NowunclaspthesecretbookofGod'sdecree,andlookintoitasfarasthewordwillwarrantthee,andthoushaltfindthatinthatinternalworkofelectionGodhadtherenewingofmanafterhisimageinhiseye,andtobehisend:'Accordingashehathchosenusinhim,beforethefoundationoftheworld,thatweshouldbeholy,andwithoutblamebeforehiminlove,'Eph. 1:4.As an artificer or statuary, that hathmanypieces of stone allalike,hewnoutofthesamequarry,inhisyard,setssomeapartfromtherest in his own thoughts, intending tomake some choice statue, somespecialpieceofthem.

SowhenallmankindwasbeforeGod,hedid,inhiseternalthoughts,setsomeaparttobechosenpieces,tobeholyandwithoutblame.

Go fromGod's decree to its execution, fromhis inward to his outwardactions,andthoushaltfindthyrenewingafterhisimagetobefullinhiseye,Prov.16:4;Ps.100:4,5;Rev.4:11.Inthycreationhethoughtofthyregeneration; hemade thee, that hemight newmake thee. Thou art aman, that thoumightst become a Christian. Godmade thee a rationalcreature, that thoumightst bemade a new creature. He gave thee thematter, in giving thee a body and a rational soul, that thereby thoumightstbecapableoftheform,whichistheimpressionofhisimageonboth.Theremustbeatreebeforeitcanbehewedandsquaredforsomecuriousbuilding.Goddidnotmaketheetoeat,anddrink,andsleep,andtoil in thycalling,but tohonourhim,and to live tohim,whichare theactionsofthenewcreature.

Trace God further, from creation to providence, and therein also thoumayestobservethistobehisend.Whydothhesendthewarmsummerofprosperity,andrefreshtheewithhischeeringbeamsandinfluences,butto cause thee to blossom, and bud, and ripen in the fruits of holiness?'There ismercywith thee, that thoumayest be feared,' Ps. 130:4.Whydothhesendthenippingwinterofadversity,buttokillthehurtfulweeds

ofthylusts?Thisishisendinafflicting,eventhetakingawayofsin,Isa.27:9.Heuseththeflailthatthehusksmayfalloff;whenonekeywillnotopenthedoorofthyheart,hewilltryanother.Whydothheinterweavemercyandaffliction,thathisprovidencestowardsthechildrenofmenarechequer-work, white and black, black and white, mercy and affliction,affliction and mercy, but because his infinite wisdom seeth that thismixture will suit best with his ends, the purifying and renewing hiscreature?Ifalltheyearweresummer,thesapofthetreeswouldbequiteexhausted; if all were winter, it would be quite buried. If thou hadstnothing in thybodybutnaturalheat, itwouldburn theeup; ifnothingbutmoisture,itwoulddrownthee;thereforethyradicalmoistureallayeththy natural heat, and thy natural heat giveth bounds to thy radicalmoisture; and each, well tempered, make an excellent constitution ofbody. If thou hadst nothing but mercy, thou wouldst be wanton andconceited; if nothing but misery, thou wouldst be too much dejected;thereforeGodsendethmercytomaketheecheerful,andmiserytokeeptheeawful.Thegoodphysiciantemperethhisdrugswisely,andweigheththemexactly,andsoprescribesandgivesthemastheymaybestconducetothecarryingonofhisownend,thespiritualhealthofhispatients.

Fifthly,Regenerationwillappeartobeexcellent, in that it is thespecialworkofGodhimself.

Grace is the immediate creature of God;man can ruin, but not renewhimself.'Whichwereborn,notofblood,norofthewilloftheflesh,norofthewillofman,butofGod,'John1:13.Manmaylaysomeclaim(thoughthere alsoGod is theprincipal) to the fatherhoodof our fleshlybeings,but God alone can lay claim to the fatherhood of our spiritual beings.Holiness is a beam of light darted forth from none but the Sun ofrighteousness. 'We are his workmanship,' Eph. 2:10; his workmanshipbothbywayofefficiencyandexcellency.

Howbeautiful is that structurewhichhath such abuilder!What a rareworkmust thatbewhichhath suchaworkman?Surely that is a choiceplantwhichisofGod'sownplanting.OhwhowouldnotbeinlovewithsofairachildfortheFather'ssake?

Thecreationofouroutwardbeings,aswearemen, is theworkofGod.

'Thy hands have made me and fashioned me,' Ps. 119:73. God makesevery man as well as the first man, Job 10:8–10. Nature and naturalcausesarenothingbuttheorderinwhich,andthetoolswithwhich,heispleasedtowork.

Now this work of God is excellent; it is the masterpiece of the visiblecreation. Man is the fair workmanship of a wise artificer, saith oneheathen; the bold attempt of daring nature, saith another. One of theancientscallethmanthemiracleofmiracles;another,themeasureofallthings;athird,theworld'sepitome—theworldinasmallvolume.

The body, which is the worst half of man, is curiously wrought in thelowestpartsoftheearth,andmadeinsecret,ascuriousworkmen,whentheyhavesomechoicepieceinhand,theyperfectitinprivate,andthenbring it forth to the light formen to gaze on. 'In thy bookwere allmymemberswritten,'Ps.139:16.

A skilful architect, who is to set up some stately building, will draw amodelofitinhisbook,oruponatable,beforehewilladventuretosetitup,tobesurethatitshallbedoneexactly.So,toshewwhatanexactpiecethebodyofmanis,Godissaidtoworkitbythebook.Butthesoul,whichisGod'swork too, isamoreexquisitepiece; thebody is,as itwere, thesheath, Dan. 7:15, the soul is the glittering sword; the body is but thecabinet, this is the jewel; it isby this thatmanclaimskindredwith theangelsinheaven,andsurpassethallcreaturesonearth.

Consider then, if this work of God's hands, this visible creation, be soexcellent, how excellent is the invisible creation, the creating man inChrist unto good works? Surely that is curious work, workmanshipindeed.

Thetablesofstone,hewedimmediatelybythehandofGod,andonwhichhehadwithhisownfingerswrittenthelaw,wassuchapiecethatmortaleyes couldnot behold itwithout astonishment and admiration.What araremanuscriptwasthat,wherethebook,thematter, thewriting,wereall of God's own making and doing! But the writing of the law in thefleshlytablesoftheheartbytheSpiritofGodismuchmoreglorious.

I am very willing, friend, to convince thee of the excellency ofregeneration,andthereforewouldspeakmoretothishead.Thinkofwhatthoupleasest,which thineunderstanding can judge excellent, and thoushaltfindtheimageofGodfarmoreexcellent.

Iswealthexcellent?Luke16:1.This isthetrueriches,1Tim.6:7;othersarebuttheshadow,thisisthesubstance,Mat.6:19,20;otherrichesarebutforashorttime,theseareforever,durablerichesandrighteousness,Prov. 8:18. Other riches will go only, as brass farthings, in someparticularplaces,inthisbeggarlylowworldofearth,butthese,likegoldandsilver,goinallcountries,arecurrentcoineveninthehigherworldofheaven.

Is wisdom excellent? This is wisdom: 'The fear of the Lord is thebeginning (the word signifieth the apex, the top, the perfection) ofwisdom,'Prov.1:7;Job28:2.Thepiousmanistheprudentman;healonecan judge rightly of things, set a due price upon things, propound tohimselfthenoblestends,andusethebestmeans;thereforeheiscalledbyway of eminency a man of wisdom, Micah 6:9. The knowing subtlepharisees,forwantofthis,werebutlearnedfools,Mat.23:17.Sinnerandfool are synonymous in Scripture: the English word fool is thought tocomefromtheGreekφᾶυλος,whichsignifiethwicked.

Isbeautyexcellent?Graceisthegreatestbeauty;thebeautyofholiness,Ps.110:5.Ohhowcomelyisthenewcreature!neveranysawitbutfellinlovewithit.ThespouseofChrististhefairestamongwomen:'Thouartall fair,my love, thouartall fair,'Cant.4:1.Godliness is suchabeauty,that,as Ihavesaidbefore,Godhimself is takenwith it.Sin isaspot,adefilement;thisbeautyisinward,itsitsuponthefaceofthemostnoblepartofman, the soul, and thereby is themorecomely; it is lasting,notliable to the rage of a disease or wrinkles of old age, but alwaysincreasing,whilsthere,toagreaterperfection.

Ispleasureexcellent?Godlinessispleasant.Regenerationbringsthesoulto its centre, inwhich itmust needs rest, Prov. 3:17. The verywork ofservingGodisarewardinitself:'Inthekeepingofthem(meaningGod'scommandments)thereisgreatreward,'Ps.19:11.Observe,inkeepingofthem. The service of God affords men such satisfaction that God's

servantswouldnotleaveitforallthisworld,thoughtheyweretoreceivenorecompenseintheotherworld.ThepreceptsofGodaresweeterthanthehoney;howsweetthenarehispromises!

Is lifeexcellent?This isthetruelife.Eternal life,saithAugustine, isthetrue life. This is the seed, the beginning of eternal life, John 17:3. Allunregeneratemenaredead,arebutwalkingghosts,ormovingcarcases;theirsoulsarebut likesalt, tokeeptheirbodies fromputrefactionforaseason.Theheathensaidofaviciousmanthatlivedtobeold,alludingtomariners,Hewasmuchtossedupanddown,butsailednotatall.Allthetimeof thynatural life till thouart converted is lost.Pauldateshis lifefromhisregeneration.Wecountnotatreelivingforstandinginagardenifitbringnotforthfruit.

Is honour excellent? Holiness is honourable: 'Holiness becometh thyhouse,OLordofhosts,'Ps.93:5. It ismorehonour tobeamemberofChrist thantobemonarchofChristendom.Godliness is thehonourablelivery which Christ purchased for and bestowed on the society ofChristians.He gave himself for his church, 'that hemight present it tohimselfagloriouschurch,withoutspotorwrinkle,'Eph.5:27.

In aword,holiness is thehonour and excellencyofGodhimself,Exod.15:11.Heissaidtobegloriousinholiness;heiscalledrichinmercy,Eph.2:3,butgloriousinholiness.Hismercyishistreasure,buthisholinessishishonour.Heswearethbyhisholiness:Ps.89:35,'OncehaveIswornbymyholinessthatIwillnotlieuntoDavid.'Greatpersons,thoughsinfully,willswearbytheirtitles,bytheirhonours,bythatwhichtheyglorymostin;thesearetheiroathsthataremostbindingwiththem.ThegreatGod,inwhomisnoiniquity,swearethbyhisholiness,ashiscrown-glory,hisgreatexcellency.He isabove thirty timescalled theHolyOneof Israel.This is the excellency which angels and perfect spirits in heaven, andsaintsonearth,dosomuchadmirehimfor,Isa.6:3;Rev.4:8.

Nay,asgold,becauseitisthemostexcellentmetal,islaidnotonlyoverpewter and brass, but also over silver itself; so because holiness is theexcellency,theperfectionofGod,itislaidnotonlyoverhisservants,hissanctuary,hisservices,hisword,hisworks,hisSabbath,histemple,andeverythingthatbelongstohim,Exod.24:8,and28:35;Rev.16:13;Exod.

16:23;Ps.105:42,butalsooverallhisotherchoiceattributes,Isa.55:10.His power is holy power, his mercy is holy mercy, his wisdom is holywisdom; holiness is the perfection of all his excellent attributes, Ps.145:17;forwereitpossible,whichishighblasphemyforanytoimagine,for those attributes to be separated from his holiness, they woulddegenerate,hiswisdomintocraft,hisjusticeintocruelty,hismercyintofoolish pity, and his sovereignty into tyranny. It is the holiness of Godwhich poiseth every one. Oh the excellency, the excellency of holiness!whoknowethitsworth!

Reader,whatdost thou thinkof this third subject of consideration, theexcellencyofregenerationandholiness,whichGodrequirethoftheefortheavoidingofhellandattainingofheaven?Tellme,dothGodrequireanythingtothywrong?IfGodrequiredoftheetoliveathousandyearsonearth, and to spend all thy time in hunger, cold, nakedness, disgrace,pains, and imprisonment, or otherwise thou shouldst not escapeunquenchableburnings,andenjoyeternallife,thouwertworsethanmadif thoudidstnot accept of andobey such a command.Howhearty andthankfulthenshouldthyacceptancebeofJesusChristtobethyLordandSaviour, of dying to sin, and living to, and delighting thyself in, hisblessedMajesty,whichisallhedesirethofthee?Ohdonotrefusewhenthouartsowelloffered!Isitpossiblethatthoucanstreadsomuchoftheexcellency of regeneration, how it is the image of the gloriousGod, thedestructionoftheevilofevils,thefruitofthedeathofJesusChrist,theend which infinite wisdom propounds in his workings, the specialworkmanshipofGod'sownhands,thehighhonourandperfectionofthemightypossessorofheavenandearth,andthysoulnotbeinlovewithit,nor breathe after it, oh that I were regenerated? Oh thatmy soul hadthosetruetreasures,thosespiritualpleasures,thatwisdom,thatlife,thathonour, that beauty, that excellency, which no tongue can commendsufficiently!Oh that the pure image ofGodwere imprinted onme!OhthatChristmightseethetravailofhissouluponme,andbesatisfied!

I have read that when Zeuxis, the famous painter, had drawn hismasterpiece, the picture of Helena, Nicostratus, the Athenian painter,beholdingit,stoodamazedatitsrareness,andadmiredtheexquisitenessofit.Therestandsbyarichignorantwretch,whowouldneedsknowwhat

Nicostratusdiscoveredinitworthyofsomuchwonder.Ofriend,saithhe,hadst thou my eyes thou wouldst not ask such a question, but ratheradmireitasIdo.Itmaybe,reader,whenthouseestthesaintsadmiringthe beauty of holiness, ravishedwith the excellency of God's image, soextremely taken with it that they read, hear, watch, fast, pray,mourn,weep, suffer anything, all things, to enjoymore of it, thou art ready towonder what they see in holiness worthy of such admiration and suchdiligent endeavours; but I tell thee, hadst thou their eyes, instead ofwonderingat them, thouwouldstwonderwith them,ay,andworkwiththemtoo,andthathard,forholiness.

CHAPTERXV

Thefourthsubjectofconsideration,Thenecessityofregeneration

Fourthly,Considertheabsolutenecessityofregeneration;ifitwerenotsoexcellent,yetitisathingofabsolutenecessity,andthereforemustnotbeneglected.Itisnotaworkofindifferency,whichmaybedoneormaynotbedone,butaworkof indispensablenecessity,whichmustbedone,orthouartundoneforever.Reader,hereisanargumentwhichneitherthefleshnorworldnordevilcananswer,andthereforeitmustnotbedenied.It is indeedso fruitfulablessing that if thouhast this, thouneedestnomore; everything that is worth aught is in the womb of it; but it is soneedful that if thou hast not this, thou hast nothing; the whole worldcannotmakeupthewantofthis.

There aremany things aboutwhichpossibly thou spendestmuch time,andtakestmuchpains,whicharenothingatallnecessaryincomparisonofthis.

Riches arenotnecessary; thewantof temporalmaybe suppliedby thefruitionofspiritualriches.Thoumayestbepoorintheworld,andyetrichin faith, andheir of a kingdom, James 2:5.Nay, riches are so far frombeingabsolutelyneedful,thattheymaybehurtfultothee.Thoumightst,astheReubenites,shouldstthouhavegoodlandhere,takeupshortofthelandofpromise.Christcallethrichesthorns,Mat.13:22;andsurelyitishardtotouchthemandnottoprickthyfingers.Howhardlyshallarichmanenterintothekingdomofheaven?

Pleasuresarenotnecessary.Hethathathlittlebutmiseryheremayfindmercyhereafter.ThoughJobhadhissoresandpains,yethehadarightto the pleasures at God's right hand for evermore. He that enduredhunger,cold,thirst,nakedness,watching,fasting,weariness,painfulness,thatwasscourged,imprisoned,stoned,yetwasachosenvesseluntoGod,andheirtoacrownofrighteousness,2Cor.11:23–29;Acts9:15;2Tim.4:6. Besides, pleasures may be hurtful to thee; those bees have theirstings as well as their honey, and many feed so plentifully on such

luscious food that theysurfeit themselves.Aristotle speaksofapieceofground in Sicily which sendeth forth such a strong smell of fragrantflowerstoallthefieldsthereabout,thatdogscannothuntthere,thescentissoconfoundedwiththesmellofthoseflowers.Earthlypleasuresdonotseldomhinderourscentandsenseofspiritualdelights.

Honours are not necessary. A man may be condemned and lightlyesteemedbymen,andyetbecommendedandhighlyesteemedbyGod.Disgracemaybe theway toglory. Josephwent throughaprison intoapalace, and Jesus from a shameful cross to a glorious crown.Honoursalsomay be hurtful to thee. Some climb so high that they break theirnecks.Thosethatareinhighplacesareapttohavetheirheadsgiddy,andtherebyareingreatdangeroffalling.Haman'sheightandglorybroughthimtobehighatlastonthegallows.

Friends and relations are not necessary. He that is friendless on earthmaybeafavouriteofheaven;whennomanstoodbyPaul,theLordwaswithhimandstrengthenedhim;whenDavid'sfatherandmotherforsookhim,Godtookthecareofhim.Whenthosestarsvanished,thesunarose.These also may be hurtful to thee; thou mayest catch their diseases.Amnon was the worse for Jonadab, and Ahab the more wicked forJezebel.

Health is not necessary. A distempered bodymay have a healthy soul.Whentheoutwardmandecayeth, the inwardmanmaybereneweddaybyday.Nodisease,soitbenotspiritual,cankeepthephysicianofsoulsfrom visiting his patients: sanctified sickness is far better thanunsanctifiedsoundness.

Nay,lifeitself,whichisfarmoreworththanalltheforesaidparticulars,isnot necessary but in order to this spiritual life of regeneration; if thatworkbedone,amanbylosinghislifemaybeagainer.Somebyyieldingup their leases, which were but for a term of years, have got the fee-simple,theinheritance,forever;bypartingwiththeirnatural livestheyhavegotpossessionofeternallife.But,friend,regenerationisabsolutelynecessary.Theemperortoldthemariner,whenhewouldhavedissuadedhim from going to sea because the waters were rough, and it mightendangerhislife,ItismorenecessarythatIgothanthatIlive.Itellthee,

itismorenecessarythatthoulivespirituallythanthatthoulivenaturally:thyriches,honours,pleasures,health,friends,arebuttoysandtriflestoregeneration;andtrulylifeitselfislittleornothingworth,butasitmakestheecapableofgettingandenjoyingthis.OhwhatapooremptyshadowisthelifeofthegreatestprincethatisastrangertofellowshipwithGod,whichregenerationbringeththesoulto!

The reasonwhy these forementioned thingsarenotnecessary, ispartlybecausethewantofallthesethingsmaybemadeupintheenjoymentofGod. 'Verily I say unto you, that ye who have followed me, in theregeneration,whentheSonofmanshallsituponhisthrone,shallalsositupon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel,' Mat. 19:28.'Thereisnomanthathathlefthouse,orbrethren,orsisters,orfather,ormother,orwife,orchildren,orlands,formysakeandthegospel's,butheshall receiveanhundredfold in time,houses, andbrethren, and sisters,andmothers,andchildren,andland,withpersecution;andintheworldtocomelifeeverlasting,'Mark10:29,30.Theregenerate,thoughneversopoor,naked,disgraced,sickly,yet in thesuntheyhaveall thosebeams,and much, much more. As Alexander told Parmenio, when in thebeginning of a battle he was earnest with him to send some forces toregaintheirweaponsandbaggagethennewlylost,Letussecurethemainbattle, for if the field be won, we shall recover all our baggage withadvantage. So if the soul be safe, being by regeneration grafted intoChrist; if thouwinnest themainbattle against sin andSatan, thouwiltrecover those with advantage. Those things are not necessary, partlybecausethewantofthemwillnotundoamanforever;aman'seternalestatemaybesecured,thoughthesethingsberemoved;butregenerationisindispensablynecessary,becausenothingcanmakeupthewantofit;not all the goldenmines in India, nor the sweetest paradise of earthlypleasures, nor the highest chair of state, nor friends, nor kindred, norhealth, nor strength, nor life, canmake up the want of this. If this bewanting, thy God is wanting, thy Christ is wanting, thy heaven, thyhappiness,thyalliswanting.Thewantofthiswillundotheeforever;itwillmaketheemiscarryintheocean;thisleakwillsinktheeeternally.Itis a standing lawofheaven, that exceptamanbeconverted,he cannotenterintothekingdomofheaven,Mat.18:3.

There is, in regard of the ordination of God, as great a necessity ofregenerationasofJesusChrist;forwhatadvantagecanstthouhavebyallthe riches and revenues of the SonofGod till by regeneration thou artmarried tohimandmadeonewithhim?Observe, reader, this fourfoldnecessityofregeneration.

It isnecessary inregardofGod'sprecept, 'Turnye, turnye,whywillyedie?' Ezek. 33:11, 31, 32; Isa. 1:16, 17; Jer. 3:1; Hosea 14:1; James 4:9.There isanecessityeitherofhearingGod'svoiceor feelingGod'shand;either the commandments of God must be obeyed by thee, or thejudgmentsofGodmustbe inflictedonthee.It isagospelprecept,Eph.4:23,24;nowgospelpreceptsmustbemindedbyallthatwouldpartakeofgospelprivileges.

It is necessary in regard of the purpose ofGod. 'Elect according to theforeknowledge of God, through sanctification of the Spirit, untoobedience,andsprinklingofthebloodofJesusChrist,'1Pet.1:2.ThoughGoddidnotchoosemenbecausetheywereholy,yethechosementobeholy;thoughheappointednotmentobesavedbecausetheyweresaints,yetheappointedmentobesaints,andthentobesaved.

ItisnecessaryinregardofthepassionofChrist.Hediedforsinthatmenmightdietosin;helaiddownhislifethatmenmightlaydowntheirlusts;his passion is a city of refuge to the penitent, not a sanctuary to thepresumptuous.Godintendedittohelpmenoutof,nottoholdthemin,themireof sin. 'He is theauthorofeternal salvation to themthatobeyhim,'Heb.5:9.Hediedbecausemenweresinners,buthediedthatmenmightbesaints:'Hesuffered,thejustfortheunjust,tobringustoGod,'1Pet.3:18.NowmanandGodcanneverbebroughttogethertilltheenmitywhichis intheheartofmanagainstGodberemoved.IfeverthouhaveChrist for thypriest, to satisfyGod's justice for thysins, it isabsolutelynecessary that thou accept him for thy prince, to subdue thee to hisservice.HadChristcometoprocuremanapardon,andnottorestorehislostholiness,hehadbeenaministerofsin;andinsteadofbringingglorytoGod,hehadsetsin inthethrone,andonlyobtaineda liberty for thecreature to dishonour God without control. Again, saith the sameaccuratewriter,invaindomenthinktoshroudthemselvesunderChrist'swings from the hue and cry of their accusing consciences, while

wickedness findsasanctuary inthem.Christwassent fromGod,not tosecuremenin,buttosavemenfrom,theirsins.

It isnecessaryinregardofthepromisesofGod. 'ThussaiththeLordofhosts;Turntome,saiththeLordofhosts,andIwillturntoyou,saiththeLordofhosts;Zech.1:3.'DrawnightoGod,andhewilldrawnightoyou,'James4:8.IfeverGoddrawnightotheeinmercy,thoumustdrawnighto him in duty. He that shall have the rewardmust do the work. ThepreceptsofGodmustbewrittenonthyheart,otherwisethepromisesofGodshallnever falldownonthinehead,Isa.1:16,17,and55:7;1Kings8:35;Prov.28:13.

'Blessedarethepureinspirit,fortheyshallseeGod,'Mat.5:8.It isthepureheartalonethathaththeassuranceofthepureheaven.

Thou seest now, I hope, clearly the absolute necessity of regeneration;whatthereforecanstthouthinktodowithit?Ohponderthisagainandagain,thatthereisnoescape,noevasion;Godwillnotvaryfromhislaw.

Thydyingtosinisnecessary;sinmustdie,orthysoulcannotlive.'Ifyeliveaftertheflesh,yeshalldie;butifyethroughtheSpiritdomortifythedeedsofthebody,yeshalllive,'Rom.8:13;Gal.6:6,7.Surelythoucanstnot think thatheavenwillbea sty for swine,orakennel fordogs, thatfeedonfilthandcarrion.Believeit,ifanyiniquitybeletgo,thylifemustgoforitslife.ThejailerspaiddearforlettingPeterescape,Acts12;Herodcommandedthemtobeputtodeath.Truly,sodearthoumustpayfortheescape of sin; it will bring the second death, even eternal death, uponthee.BethysinasnearandasdearasIsaac, itmustbesacrificed;beitneversosmall,itmustnotbespared.Cæsarwasstabbedwithbodkins.Ihavesomewherereadthatamanandcrocodilenevermeetbutonedieth.Itiscertainsinandthesoulnevermeetbutonedieth;ifsinlive,thesouldieth; if sindie, thesoul liveth; there isnopartingstakes,or retreatinguponequalterms.MauriceofNewporttoldhissoldiers,whenhehadsentawayhisboats,thattherewasnoflying,theSpaniardsbeingbeforethem,and the sea behind them; either ye must eat up and destroy thoseSpaniards, or drinkup this ocean.Friend, such is thy case; either thoumust destroy thy sins, or drink up the bottomless ocean of the Lord'swrath.

Answermeseriously:thouwiltsaythoudostnotlovesuchamansowellastobehangedforhim.Dostthoulovesinsowellastobedamnedforit?Dost thou love thy drunkenness, and swearing, and uncleanness, andscoffingatgodliness,sowellas toburneternally inhell for them?Dostthou love thypride,andworldliness,and lustful thoughts,andatheism,and carnal-mindedness, so well as to be tormented, day and night, foreverandever,forthem?Averycowardwillfightwhenhemusteitherkillorbekilled.Wilt thounot fightmanfullywhensinwillkill thee, if itbenotkilledbythee?Ahab,outoffoolishpity,gaveBenhadadhislifewhenheoughttohaveslainhim;buttherequitalwhichBenhadadmadewastokill Ahab, 1 Kings 22:31, 34; such a requital sinwillmake thee if thoufavourit.

'Follow after peace and holiness, without which no man shall see theLord,' Heb. 12:14. Observe how peremptory God is in that place, thatwithoutholinessnomanshallseeGod.ItisnotsaidthatwithoutpeacenomanshallseeGod,butwithoutholinessnomanshallseeGod.Peacemaybebrokeninthequarreloftruthandholiness,yetforallthatamanmayseeGod.Jeremiahwasamanofcontention,andyetamanforthebeatifical vision; but they that arenotholy cannot seeGod.Apure eyeonlycanseeapureGod.Astheeyewhichhathdustinitwithout,orthickvapours stopping the nerves within, cannot see, except it be cleansedfromtheoneandpurgedfromtheother,soaman,theeyeofwhosemindiscloudedwiththemistofsin,cannotbeholdGodtillhebecleansed.TheChristian'shappinessinheavenconsistethinsuchavisionofGodasshallmake him likeGod, 1 John 3:2; but a dusky glass cannot represent animage.When the Sun of righteousness shall shine upon a pure crystalglass,acleanunspottedsoul,itwillcauseagloriousreflectionindeed.

To wind up this fourth subject of consideration. Reader, affairs ofabsolute, indispensable necessity should, like weighty things, make adeepimpressionuponthyspirit.Urgethysouloftenwiththis,thatofallthings in the world regeneration is the one thing necessary. Letconsciencepress iton thee, Imustbeconvertedorcondemned;here isthewordofthelivingGodforit,andsuchawordascannotpossiblygounfulfilled. Oh my soul, what sayest thou to it? Except thou art bornagain,thoucanstnotseethekingdomofGod.Thereisanecessityofthy

turningintime,orburningeternally.Howwiltthouanswerthistext,andmanymore,intheotherworld?CanstthouthinktomaketheinfiniteGoda liar, and in despite of him and his word to escape hell? Oh do notdeceivethyself!Godwillbetrue,thougheverymanbealiar;thereforesetabout this work, that is thus absolutely needful, before thou artirrecoverablywoeful.

Friend,Iwouldadvisetheetodoasthepatriarchsdid.Josephhadtoldthem,that 'exceptyouryoungerbrothercomewithyon,yeshallnotseemy face,' Gen. 43:3–5. Jacob their father would have them,notwithstandingthisexpressassertion,toventureintoJoseph'spresencewithout their brother. But what said Judah? 'The man did solemnlyprotestuntous,saying,Yeshallnotseemyfaceexceptyourbrotherbewithyou. If thouwilt sendourbrotherwithus,wewillgodown;but ifthouwiltnotsendhim,wewillnotgodown;forthemansaiduntous,Yeshall not see my face except your brother be with you.' So do thouconsider,and lay ithome to thysoul, that thegreatGodofheavenandearthhath said, that except regenerationbewith thee, be in thee, thoushaltnotseehisfacewithcomfort;andthoughthydeceitfulheartandthedevil may wish thee to venture into his presence in the other worldwithout it, yet do thou reply, The almighty and faithful God hathsolemnlyprotesteduntome,thatexceptregenerationbewithme,Ishallnotseehimfacetoface,andenjoythebeatificalvision.ThereforeifIberegenerated, Iwillgoand lookdeath, judgment,God,andChrist in thefacewithcourageandcomfort;butifIbenotregenerated,Imaynotgo,lestIdie,lestIbedamnedeternally;forGodhathsaiduntome,'Followafterholiness,withoutwhichnomanshallseetheLord.'

CHAPTERXVI

Thefifthsubjectofconsideration,Theequityofregeneration,orlivingtoGod

Fifthly, Consider the equity and reasonableness of that which God

requireth of thee. I shall now appeal to thine own conscience whethertherebenotallthereasonintheworldthatthymainworknightanddayshouldbetopleaseandglorifytheLord;ifallcomefromhim,shouldnotthehonourofallbegiventohim?Ifhebeinfiniteinwisdom,shouldhenotinallhisprovidencesbeadored?Ifhebeinfinitelyfaithful,shouldhenotinallhispromisesbebelieved?Ifhebethefirstcause,shouldhenotinallhispreceptsbeobeyed?Ifhebeinfinitelyholy,shouldhenotinallour approaches to him be reverenced? If he be infinitely just andpowerful, should he not in all his threatenings be feared? If he beinfinitelygraciousandperfect,shouldhenotbeheartilyloved?

Religion is thehighestreason, thereforeconversion iscalledconviction,John16:10.Whenaman'smouthisstopped,andhismindfullysatisfiedof thereasonof living toGod, thathehathnothing toobjectagainst it,thenheisconvinced.TheofferingupofthysoulandbodyuntoGodasalivingsacrificeiscalledrationalorreasonableservice,Rom.12:1.

I shall offer thee three or four questions, and I do verily believe that ifthouseriouslyconsiderthem,thoucanstnotbutbeconvincedthatthereisall thereasonintheworldthatthoushouldstpresentlyturnfromsinuntoGod.

First,Istherenotallthereasonintheworldthattheworkshouldbefortheserviceandhonouroftheworkman?thathewhoplantedthevineyardshouldeatofthefruitofit?thathewhomadetheeshouldbeservedbythee?Hewho owneth the ground and buildeth a housemay rationallyexpect the benefit and use of it.May not God, thy landlord, who hathreared and set up thine earthly tabernacle, appointwhat conditions hepleasethintheleasewhichhegranteththee,howhisownhouseshouldbeemployed,nottosuchandsuchsordidsinfuluses,buttotheserviceand glory of his Majesty? Is it rational that God's house should beemployedtothedevil'suse?

Thycreation is sucha tie to subjection that thoucanstneveranswer it.'Serve theLordwithgladness;hehathmadeus, andnotweourselves.'David's prayer is to this purpose, 'Thine hands have made me andfashioned me, O give me understanding that I may keep thycommandments,' Ps. 119:73, and 95:6; Isa. 43:7. Let thy conscience be

judge;wouldstnotthouesteemitinjusticeforanothertohavethehonouranduseofthyworks,orofthineownhouse?Thelaw,whichisbuiltuponreason,givestheetheserviceofthineowngoods,houses,andlands;andwhyshallnotGodhavethyservice?Withwhatfacecanstthoudenyhimthatsowedlibertytoreap?

Secondly,Istherenotallthereasonintheworld,thathewholiveswhollyatanother'scostandcharge,thatisfed,clothed,preservednightandday,protectedathomeandabroad,suppliedwithallnecessaries,relieved inallhisexigencies,deliveredinallhisextremitiesbyanother,shouldlivewhollytohim,anddohimservice?

Dost thounotknowthat thybeingandall thycomfortsdependonGodeverymoment? thateverybitofbread,everybreathofair,everyhour'ssleep,nay,everyminute'sabodeonthissidehell, isaltogether fromhisbountyandmercy?thatthoucanstnotspeakaword,northinkathought,norliftahand,norstirafoot,noropenthineeyestosee,orthymouthtoeat ordrink,withouthim? It ishis visitation thatpreserveth thy spirit,Job10:12.Inhimthoulivest,movest,andhastthybeing.Heisthyshieldto defend thee from evil;manymischiefs would daily befall thee;menwould kill thee, devils would drag thee to hell;—oh, how they long forthee, andhow ready are they to seize thee,—didnot theLord curb andrestrainthem.Alexandertoldhissoldiers,Iwakethatyemaysleep.SureIam,hethatpreserveththeeneverslumberethnorsleepeth.TheLordisthecaptainofthylife-guardtoprotectthee,andthysuntorefreshthee,and, therefore,dost thounotowehim thegloryof thosemercieswhichhis free grace bestoweth on thee! Thou dost a little under God for thefeedingandclothingofthychildrenandservants,andthereforethinkestthatnoduty,no service, is great enough for thee.Ohhow infinitelyartthouboundtoGodforallthytime,health,strength,food,raiment,house,friend,andeverygoodthingthatthouenjoyest!andyetmaynotGodlookthatthoushouldstmakeitthybusinesstoserve,please,andglorifyhim!ItwasagoodvowofholyJacob,'IftheLordwillbewithme,andkeepmeinthewaythatIgo,andwillgivemebreadtoeat,andraimenttoputon,sothatIcomeagaintomyfather'shouseinpeace,thenshalltheLordbemyGod,'Gen.28:20,21.Trulydothousay,ashedid,SincetheLordistheGodthatkeepethmeinallmyways,thatgivesmebreadtoeat,and

raimenttoputon,heshallbemyGod.Ohdonotgivehimevercausetocomplain: 'Hear,Oheaven,andgiveear,Oearth,Ihavenourishedandbroughtupachild,andhehathrebelledagainstme,'Isa.1:2.

Thirdly,Istherenotallthereasonintheworld,thatwares,orhouses,oranyotherthing,shouldbefortheuseandserviceofhimthatpaidadearpriceforthem?Ifthoushouldstbuyabeastatahighrate,thouwouldstthinkthoucouldstneverhaveserviceenoughofhim.Friend,thoudidstcostthebloodoftheSonofGod.JesusChristboughtthyserviceatadearrate. Thou art not thine own, thou art bought with a price; thereforeglorify God in thy body and spirit, for they are his, 1 Cor. 6:20. Thouneedest not grudge the Lord Jesus thy time, and talents, thy thoughts,andwords,andestate,andtheutmostwhichthouartabletodo.Alas!hepaiddearlyforit.Hediedthathemightbelordofdeadandliving;thatwhetherwelive,weshouldliveuntotheLord;ordie,weshoulddieuntohim,Rom.14:7,8.Oh,howlittleisthyserviceworth,thatChristshouldpurchaseitwithsuchaninfinitesum!

Wesayofsomechildren,theyhadneedtobedutifulchildren;theycosttheirmothers dear,many sharp throes, and great danger of death.Oh,how dutiful hadst thou need to be, who didst cost Christ such hardlabour,suchthroesfromGodandmen,deathanddevils!ThouartneverabletoconceivewhatapricethyRedeemerpaid,whatpainhesuffered,to procure thy service; and wilt thou deny the Lord that bought thee?Pliny saith that blood will quench fire; should not the blood of JesusChrist quench the fire of thy lusts? In all countries the ransomer of abondmanistobehislord.Noslaverysogreatasthinewas,nopriceeverpaidsogreatforliberty;thereforenoservicesogreatasthatwhichthouowest.Ifthouhadstdoneallthathecommandeththee,thouhadstdonebutthyduty,andmightstsaythouwertanunprofitableservant;whatartthouthenthatneverdidstanything?Ohthinkofitseriously!RedemptionbythebloodoftheSaviourisabloodyobligationtoservice,andifthoucontinuest a rebel it will be a bloody aggravation of thy sin.What evilhathChristdonetothee,thatthouwalkestcontrarytohim?Ah,friend,torendergoodforevilisdivine;buttorenderevilforgoodisdevilish.

Fourthly,Istherenotallthereasonintheworld,thathewhohathboundhimself apprentice to a master, promised solemnly to be his faithful

servant, sealed indentures before witness, engaged himself by vows,covenants, protestations, and oaths, should perform his promises, andwalk in everything answerable to his bonds and obligations?Wast notthou in baptism solemnly dedicated to the service ofGod?Did not thyparentssealtheindentureonthypartbeforetheLord,angels,andmen,that thou shouldst live according to the laws, and for the glory of theFather, Son, and Holy Ghost? Hast not thou listed thyself under thecoloursofChrist,thecaptainofthysalvation,andsacredlytiedthyselftoobey his commands, and to fight under his banner against the devil,world,and flesh?andwilt thourun fromthycolours,and turn to thineenemies,andconspireandfightagainstJesusChrist?Itwasacustomintheprimitivetimes,thatsuchaswerebaptizeddidwearawhitestole,aceremony signifying the purity of life which the baptized were to lead.Now there was one Elpidophorus, who after his baptism turned apersecutor. Muritta, the minister who baptized him, brought forth inpublicthewhitestolewhichElpidophorushadwornathisbaptism,andcrieduntohim,OElpidophorus!thisstoledoIkeepagainstthycomingto judgment to testify thyapostasy fromChrist.Sobe thouassured thewaterwithwhich, theministerbywhom,thepeoplebeforewhom,thouwastbaptized,willriseupagainsttheeinjudgmentifthoudostnotwalkinnewnessoflife.Lutherspeaksofonethat,whentemptedbythedevilto sin, answered that she was baptized, and could not yield to him.Remember that thou hast received thy Saviour's press-money, andthereforemayest not fight Satan's battles.Wast thou never partaker oftheLord's supper?Didst thounot thenwithJohnstandby thecrossofJesusChrist,andbeholdhisblessedbodybleedingundertheknifeofhisFather'swrath?how itwaswounded for thy transgressions,bruised forthine iniquities; when thou didst take a sacred oath to be the death ofthose sinswhichwere thedeathofourSaviour, and to live tohim thatdiedforthee;whenthoudidstespouseChristandhisquarreltothyself,andengagetoliveanddiewithhim;andcanstthou,likeadishonestwife,runa-whoringafterthyheart-idols,andforgetthecovenantofthyGod?

Was therenota timewhen thoudidst lieuponasick-bed,and in thineownapprehensionwastnighthegateofdeath,whenthysinfulfleshlylifebegantoflyinthyface?andohthethoughtswhichthouhadstconcerningthineappearancebeforeGodintheotherworld,andthineendlessestate

there,whenthoudidstprayhard,Ohsparemealittle,Lord,sparemealittle, that I may get some grace, some spiritual strength, before I gohenceandbenomoreseen!whenthoudidstpromise,oh ifGodwouldthenhearthee,andtrytheealittlelongerinthisworld,thouwouldstturnoveranewleaf, leadanewlife, forbearthy formercorruptionsandevilcompanions,mind the service and glory of the infinite God, and thineowneternalgood?Andisallthisnothing,nowGodhathheardtheeanddeliveredthee?Shouldstnotthounowhearhimandobeyhim?Didthysick-bed promises die when thou didst recover? Oh, follow David'spractice,'Iwillgointothyhousewithburnt-offerings;Iwillpaytheemyvows,whichmylipshaveuttered,andmymouthhathspokenwhenIwasindistress,'Ps.66:13,14,and116:3,4,9.

Theodoricus, archbishop of Colen, when the Emperor Sigismunddemandedofhimthemostcompendiouswaytohappiness,madeanswerinbrief,thus:Performwhenthouartwellwhatthoudidstpromisewhenthouwastsick.Friend,lookbackuponthetimewhentheguiltofthysinsperplexed thee, the fear of death surprised thee, and the horror of hellbegantolayholdonthee,andrememberthepromiseswhichthenthoudidstmake;andaseverthouwouldsthaveGodtrusttheeagain,betruetothyword;benotasthemarble,wateryandmoist instormyweather,andyetstillretainthyhardness.

Theseare,Isuppose,rationalquestions,andsurelythoucanstnotbutbesatisfiedoftheequityinthem.Well,artthouresolvedtoobeythecounselofGod,andtolivelikearationalcreature?Surelyhereisathreefold,nay,afourfoldcord,whichisnoteasilybroken.Canstthouslipthoseoathsaseasilyasmonkeysdotheircollars?andbreak thesebands insunder,asSamsondidhiscords?Ohconsider,thatmanwaspossessedwithadevil,whomno cords couldhold! andwithout question thou art also, if suchbonds,oaths,obligationsasthesearecannotholdthee,donotdrawtheetotheLord,andbindtheetohiscommandments.

Toendthisfirsthelptoholiness,whichisseriousconsideration,Imustrequest thee to read it again, and weigh the particulars which I haveofferedtothee.Ifthouwilteverbetaken,Ishouldthinkthatoneofthesebaits shouldcatch thee:either that thenecessityof regenerationshoulddrivethee,orthefelicityoftheregeneratedrawthee,orthemiseryofthe

unregenerate affright thee, or the equity of regenerationpersuade thee,untoholiness.

Hereareallsortsofargumentsimaginable.Ifthouartingenuous,hereislove andmercy tomelt thee; if thou art stubborn, here is endless andeaseless misery to move thee; if thou art for the best things, here isexcellency for to allure thee; if thou art for rational, here is equity toprevailwiththee.

Friend, what shall I say to thee? or wherewith shall I overcome thee?Hath not theworld conquered theewith argumentswhich had not thethousandthpartof thatweightwhich the leastof thesehath?Andshallnot thymaker,preserver, redeemer,prevailwith thee,bysettingbeforetheethehorrorofhell,thehappinessofheaven,thebeautyofhisimage,thereasonablenessofhisservice,andthe indispensablenecessityof thybeinghisservant?Is itpossible that thysoul, socloselybesiegedroundaboutwithfear,andfury,andfire,ontheoneside;withfavour,andlove,and life, on the other side, should not surrender unto Christ? Whatobjectioncanst thouhavewhichhere isnotanswered?whatgoodcanstthoudesirewhichhereisnotoffered?andwhywiltthounotyield?

It is thyprivilege that thouarta subject capableofGod's image; itwasman'sprimitivepurity,thathewasadornedwiththeimageofhismaker.Ah, what a glorious shining piece was he when he came newly out ofGod'smint!Gen.1:26;John3:6;Gen.6:9;Col.3:10;Ps.17:15.Itisman'sunspeakable misery that he hath lost God's image; his recovery hereconsisteth in having God's image imprinted on him in part; and hisfelicity and perfection hereafter, in having this image stamped on himfullyandcompletely.Andcanst thou thenbeunwilling tobemade likeunto the blessed God? Surely sin hath bound thee strongly, and Satanpossessedtheestrangely, ifnoneof thesethingsovercomethee.Friend,artthounotdesiroustofarewellintheotherworld?Thenponderthesesubjectsofconsiderationseriouslyandfrequentlywhenthouliestdown,andwhenthourisestup;whenthougoestout,andwhenthoucomestin;thou little thinkest what such serious frequent thoughts may produce.WhilstDavidwasmusingafirewaskindledwithinhim,Ps.39.ConsiderwhatIhavesaid,andtheLordgivetheeunderstandinginallthings.

CHAPTERXVII

Thesecondhelptoregeneration:

AnobservationorknowledgeofthoseseveralstepswherebytheSpiritofGod reneweth other souls, and a pliable carriage and submission to itsworkingsandmotions

I comenow to the secondhelpwhich Ipromised towardsholiness andregeneration,andthatwillbranchitselfforthintothesetwoparticulars:

First, An observation or knowledge of those several steps,whereby theSpiritbringethhomewanderingsheepintothefoldofChrist.

Secondly,ApliablesubmissiontotheworkingsandmotionsoftheHolyGhost,asatanytimehemakethhisaddressesuntothee.

For the first of these, thou art to understand that conversion is notwroughtalltogetherandatonce,butbydegrees.Asinthegenerationofachild, first thebrain,heart,andliver, is framed,nextthebones,sinews,nerves,andarteries,thenthefleshisadded.Soinregeneration,firstthesinnerhaththeseedofrepentanceandfaithinthesenseofhissinsandmisery, and the sight of themercy ofGod inChrist, then somedesiresafter Christ, next some affiance on Christ, and after these a heartyacceptanceofChristasLordandSaviour.

ThematchbetweenChristandthesoulisnothuddledupinhaste.Christfirstgoetha-wooing.TheFatherofferethalargeportionwithhisSon.Thecreature considereth his terms: how lovely his person is, what hispreceptswillbe,whatadvantageheshallhavebythemarriage;andbyadeep and powerful energy of the Spirit, consenteth to take him for hislordandhusband.

First, The first step is illumination. The Spirit of God doth in the firstplaceopentheeyesof theblind,andturnmenfromdarknessto light—here is illumination;and then from thepowerofSatan toGod—here isregeneration,Acts26:18.BeforetheSunofrighteousnessarisethonthe

soul, there isdaybreakof light in theunderstanding.JohnBaptist,whowastheforerunnerofChrist,andsenttopreparehiswaybeforehim,diditbygivingknowledgeofsalvation,Luke1:76,77.

Itisobservable,thatinthecovenantofgracethemindisstillspokenoftobe renewed before the heart, Heb. 10:8, 9; Jer. 31:33. For it is by theunderstandingthatgraceslipsdownintotheaffections.

Satanindeed,thatcrueljailer,secureshiscaptivesinthedarkdungeonofignorance.Theyare 'strangers to the lifeofGod, through the ignorancethat is in them,' Eph. 4:18. When that uncircumcised Philistine hathtakenawaySamsonprisoner,thefirstthinghedothistoputouthiseyes;when this is done he canmake sport enough with him. The evil spiritstrikesmenblind,as theSyrianswere,and then leads themwhitherhepleases;butthegoodSpiritopenstheireyes,andsheweththemthattheyare in their enemy's hands, liable every moment to be murdered, andthensetsbreadandwaterbeforethem.Conversioniscalledatranslationoutofdarknessintomarvellouslight,1Pet.2:3.

The sinner travelleth in the dark night of his natural estate, andmistakethhisway,he losethhimself inthemistof ignorance;butwhenthemorning cometh theman seeth thathehathgone in awrongpath,thenhebefools,andisdispleasedwithhimself,andturnethabout.Allthewhile the creature hath his understanding darkened he walketh in thewayofthefleshandtheworld,andbelieveththattobetherightwaytohappiness; butwhen the Spirit ofGod enlighteneth themind, themanseeththathewasexceedinglymistaken,beginstowonderathisownfollyandwickedness,toabhorhimselfandchangehiscourse.'Iwillbringtheblindbyawaywhichtheyknewnot;Iwill leadtheminpathsthattheyhave not known; I will make darkness light before them;' then whatfolloweth?'theyshallbeturnedback,theyshallbegreatlyashamed,'Isa.42:16,17.

Till the understanding of aman be enlightened to see the deformity ofsin,andthebeautyofholiness,hewillneverheartilyloatheandgrieveforthe former, love and long for the latter. As it is in some hot climates,thoughthesunshineveryhotthere,yetwhenthereisnoentranceforitintomen'shouses, itwillnot scorchorheat the inhabitants.Sin isof a

scorchingnature;butwhentheunderstanding,whichisthewindowintothe house, is kept shut, that it can have no entrance into the heart, nowonderifthesinnerfeelnopain.

Godhathmade the sameorgan for seeingandweeping. It is theeyeofknowledgewhichaffects theheart.They shall seehimwhom theyhavepierced,andmourn,Zech.12:10.Sightofsindothprecedesorrowforsin.Assoonasevertheinfantcomethintothelight,itcrieth;thoughallthetimeitwasinthedarkprisonofthemother'swomb,itwasquiet.

Secondly,ThesecondstepwhichtheSpirittakesisconvictiontoconvincethesinner,John16:9,10.Thesun,whichbeforedidenlightenhismind,doth now slide down with its heating and scorching beams into theconscience.Thatknowledgewhichthesinnerhadofhissinsbeforewasspeculative, but now become practical, making sin like a lump of leadupon tender flesh, that the conscience is exceedingly pressed andoppressedwithit.

Convictionistheapplicationofthenatureofsin,anddangerofsinners,tohimself inparticular,whichbeforeheknew in thegeneral.As in thetwilight,beforethesunariseth,amanmayseeabroad,buthecannotseeinhisownhouse;butwhenthesunarisethamanmayseebothabroadandathomewithinhisowndoors;sobeforetheSpiritapproacheththesoulinawayofconviction,thesinnercouldseeabroad;heknewthatthesoul that sinneth must die; that they which do such and such thingscannotinheritthekingdomofGod.Heknewthesethingsinthegeneral,buthecouldnotseeinhisownhouse,inhisownheart,thathehimselfwasagreatsinner,adead,adamnedcreature;forthoughhewouldinhisprayersacknowledgethathehadbrokenthelaw,andwastherebyliabletothewrathoftheLord,yethediditbutcustomarilyandformally,notbelievingwhat he spake; for should anotherman come to him and tellhim,O friend, youdaily provokeGod, and are every hour in danger ofhell, he would fly in his face and tell others that he was a veryuncharitableman, and all because the sinner could not see in his ownhouse. But when the Sun of righteousness ariseth, the sinner can seewithinaswellaswithoutdoors;heseeth theheinousnatureofhisownsins,andthegrievousdangerofhisownsoul.

TheSpiritofGodconvinceththesinneroffourthings.

First, The Spirit convinceth him of his great and innumerablecorruptions.Themanbeforeknewinthegeneralthatallhavesinned,andcome short of the glory of God, and would confess himself a sinnerformally and slightly; but now he feels himself a sinner, and findsexperimentallythatheisapolluted,poisonedcreature.TheSpiritofGodholdeththeglassof the lawbeforetheeyesofhissoul,andmakeshim,whether hewill or no, seewhat dirt anddeformity is in the face of hisheartandlife.Withoutthelawthereisnotransgression,andwithouttheknowledge of the law there will be no conviction. As one of thepersecutors in the days of Queen Mary, searching a house for aprotestant,askedanoldwomaninthehouse,Whereistheheretic?Shepointstoachestoflinen,uponwhichstoodalooking-glass,andbidhimlookthereandheshouldseehim.Helookedthere,andstillasked,Whereis he? She meant that he himself was the heretic, and in the glass hemightseehimself.SobeforetheHolyGhostcametoconvincethissinner,if theministeratanytimehadpreachedagainstpride,unbelief,carnal-mindedness,hypocrisy,andthelike,hisvoicewas,Wherearethesemen?Surelytheministermeetswithsuchandsuchinhissermon!ButnowtheSpiritinhisconsciencespeakethtohim,whatNathandidtoDavid,Thouart the man. Thou art the proud, carnal, hypocritical, cursed sinner,whichthewordofGodmeaneth,andthemancannotdenyit.TheHolyGhostpullsoffhisragsandplasters,andmakeshimseeallhisnakednessandsores; it lancethhiswoundsbeforehiseyes,andnowhebeholdeththe venomous matter and corruptions which is in them, that he littlethoughtofbefore.

Formerlyheesteemedhimselftobesound,comparinghimselfwiththemthatwereworse, ornotminding the inwardmeaning and extent of thelawofGod;butnowbythelawtheSpiritbringshimtotheknowledgeofsin,Rom.6:7.Itshewethhimthedepravationofhisnature,howfullitisofpollution,evenasfullasevertoadwasofpoison;howemptyitisofallgood;nay,whatanenemyitistoGodandgodliness.Itshewethhimtheabominations of his heart, how the imaginations and thoughts of hishearthavebeenevil,onlyevil,andthatcontinually;theprovocationsofhislife,howfullthathathbeenoflustsandsins,evenasthefirmamentof

stars.Itshewethhimtheevilofhisthoughts,ofhiswords,ofhisdeeds;his omissions in his closet, in his family; his commissions abroad, athome.Itshewethhimhisidolatry,insettingupselfashisGod,inbowingdowntoit,andworshippingit;hisadulteryingoinga-whoringafterthecreatures,loving,fearing,andtrustingthemmorethantheCreator,whoisblessedforever.ItshewethhimhowhehathdishonouredthenameofGod, grieved the Spirit of God, undervalued the Son of God, violatedeverycommandofGod;howhehathsinnedagainstthefirstcommand,in notworshipping and glorifyingGod as the only trueGod and as hisGod, and in giving that honour to others which is due to him alone;against the second, innotworshippingGod according to theword, butaccording to the traditionsofothers,orhisown inventions;against thethird,innotreverencingthename,word,andworksofGod;againstthefourth, innotsanctifyingtheSabbathtoGod'sservice,butprofaning it,either by idleness, or worldly labours, or omission of duties andordinances;againstthefifth,innotcarryinghimselfaccordingtohisdutytowardsthemthatareabovehim,equaltohim,orbelowhim;againstthesixth, seventh, eighth, ninth, and tenth, in wronging his neighbours,eitherinregardoflife,chastity,goods,name,relations,eitherinthought,words,oractions.

It sheweth him the darkness of his understanding, the stubbornness ofhiswill, the disorderedness of his affections, the hardness of his heart,the searedness of his conscience, the misimprovement of his outwardparts;howhiseyeshavebeheldvanity,hisearsbeenopentoiniquity,allhis senses been thoroughfares to sin, all the members of his bodyinstrumentsofunrighteousness;howfromthecrownof theheadtothesoles of his feet there is no sound part in him, nothing but wounds,bruises,andputrifiedsores.

It isnotoneor two sins that trouble this sinner,but innumerable evilscompasshimabout;wholeswarmsofthesebeesflyinhisfaceandstinghisconscience.Itmaybeonesindidfirstsetuponhim,somesinagainstthelightwhichGodhadgivenhim,andnowthatcreditorhathcasthimintoprison,alltherestcomeandclaptheiractionsuponhimtokeephimthere; his sins in his dealings withmen, in his duties to God; his sinsagainst seasonable corrections, againstmerciful dispensations; his sins

against the motions of God's Spirit, against the conviction of his ownspirit,againstlight,love,purposes,promises;theyallcompassthesinnerroundthathecannotescape.Nowheseestheuglyloathsomenessofhislusts, how they are against an infinite God, against a righteous law,againstaprecioussoul;howbyreasonofthemheiswhollyunlikeGod,and become the very picture of the devil; and truly nowhe is far fromhaving those flattering thoughts of himself, and favourable thoughts ofhissins,whichformerlyhehad.Forsin'spart,itisabounding,polluting,poisonous, sinful sin.He seeth thewrinklesof thisJezebel's faceunderherpaint;andohhowuglyissheinhiseyes!Andforhimself,heismoreoutoflovethaneverhewasinlovewithhimself.Somesayaftertheyhavehadthesmall-pox,thattheycometoseethemselvesinaglass,theylookso ugly by reason of their spots that they cannot endure to seethemselves.Trulythispoorsinner,beholdinghimself intheglassofthelaw,andviewingthosehellishspotsofsinalloverhissoulandbody,heabhorrethhimselfindustandashes.

This is the first thing the Spirit convinceth the soul of, and that is sin:'When he is come, he shall convince the world of sin,' John 16:8. Godnevercuredaspiritualleperbuthecausedhimtofalldownfirstandcryout,Unclean,unclean.

Secondly, The Spirit convinceth him of his miserable and dreadfulcondition.NowthecommandmentsofGodcometothesoul,sinreviveth,andthesinnerdieth.Hethoughtbeforethathewaswhole,asoundman,to have little need of a physician; but nowhe both seeth his sores andfeelethhiswounds.

Ministers before had frequently told him of his dangerous, damnableestate,buthehadashieldtokeepoffalltheirdarts.Hewasnotsobadasthey took him to be; somewhat they must say for their money. Andbesides, though he were as bad as such precise, censorious preacherswouldmakehimtobe,yetGodwasamercifulGod,andJesusChristdiedforsinners,andhehopedtobesavedaswellasthebestofthem.ButnowGodcomestohimashedidtoAdamafterhisfall,'Adam,whereartthou?HastthoueatenofthetreeofwhichIsaiduntotheethoushaltnoteat?'Sinner,whereartthou?Dostthouknowwhatthouartdoing,andwhitherthouartgoing?Howdarest thouprofanemyday,blasphememyname,

scoff atmy people, neglectmyworship, castmy laws behind thy back,and hate to be reformed? Darest thou provoke the Lord to anger? Artthou stronger thanhe?Howwill thineheart endure, or thinehandsbestrong, in the day that I shall dealwith thee?Dost not know, poor drystubble, that it is a fearful thing to fall into my hands? for I am aconsuming fire.Nowthesinnerheareth thevoiceofGod,and isafraid.Alas, alas! thinkshe, I amadead, adamnedman; the almightyGod isangry;theweightofmysinsatpresentisheavy;butthesufferingswhichI ameverymoment liable to, are infinite and eternal.Oh that I shouldeverbeborntodoasIhavedone!Nowthelightningsofdivinefuryflashinhis eyes, and the cannonsof the law's curses thunder inhis ears;heseethasharpswordofpurewrathhangingbyaslenderthreadoflifeoverhishead;he feeleth thestingingsofhissins, those fieryserpents,athisheart.ThereisnorestinhisfleshbecauseofGod'sanger,norquietnessinhisbonesbecauseofhis sins.Thearrowsof theAlmightyarewithinhim,andthepoisonthereofdrinksuphisspirit;thewavesandbillowsofGodgooverhissoul,andhesinketh indeepwaters;Godwritethbitterthingsagainsthim,andmakeshimtopossessthesinsofhisyouth.Nowthemaniscalmed,hewillhearwhatGodspeaketh:before,thoughGodhimselfhadtoldhimoutofhiswordwhatawickedwretchedmanhewas,hewould notmind it, but storm and rage at it; hewas like a wild asssnuffingupthewind,andasanuntamedheiferimpatientoftheyoke;hewouldkickandflinglikeamadman.What!hegivecredittothedoctrine,andsubmittotheseveredisciplineofafewwhimsicalpuritans,thatmustbewiserthanall theirneighbours!No,nothe, thoughtheyshewedhimtheveryhandofGod inScripture to thosewarrantswhich theydesiredhimtoobey.Butnowheisofanothermind,forthelawhathshuthimupundersinandguilt,Gal.3:22.Thelawhathpenthiminandshuthimupthathecannotpossiblygetout.Aslions,bears,andwildbeastsaretamedbybeingshutupandkeptin,sothelawcausethwrath,Rom.4:15,shutsthesinnerupunder it,andkeepshim in, thathis formerstarting-holescannothelphim;andtherebytameshim.

Whilehewasconvincedofhissinsandmisery,hisconsciencewasseared,not troubledatall the threateningswhichweredenouncedagainsthim;butnowhisconscienceissore,touchitwhichwayyouwill,youputhimtopain;tellhimunderthisconvictionofhisdrunkenness,orswearing,or

atheism,oreagernessafterthisworld,andheartlessnessaboutthethingsof the otherworld, his neglectingGod in secret, of not instructing andprayingwithhis family; tellhimhowcoldandcustomaryhewas inhisdevotion,sayingtoothersthattheytookmorepainsforheaventhantheyneeded todo; ofhis justifyinghimself inhis transgressions, and takingpartwithSatanagainsthisownsoul;hecrieth,guilty,guilty,whensuchbillsofindictmentarereadagainsthim;buteverywordinthemisadeepwound to him; the wolf in the breast, and worms in the belly, do notcause half that pain which his wickedness doth by gnawing in hisconscience. Tell him of the gospel, how infinitelymerciful God is, andhowinconceivablymeritoriousChrist is,andhowfreelythegladtidingsof the gospel are offered to all.Oh, this touchethhim to thequick! theswordofthegospelcutshimmoretotheheartthantheswordofthelaw.Oh, saith he, this, this ismy death; were it not for this, I should havesome hopes of life; but, alas! I have abused mercy, which is the onlyfriend I have left; I have despised Christ, and neglected the greatsalvationwhichwastenderedtomeinthegospel.VilecreaturethatIam!mercy, love, and grace came many a time wooing me. How did JesusChristhimselfwithpardonandlifecomebeseechingme,beggingofmetoopenmyheartandlethimin;andyet,cursedwretchthatIwas,Ideniedhim!Whentheworldcouldliewarminmybosomallnight,andsingetagood room inmy soul, yetmySaviourmust standwithout, andnot bethoughtworthytobelet in!Ihavemostunworthilyspurnedagainsthisbowels of compassion, scorned his sweetest and most affectionatepersuasions, most desperately refused the only means of my recovery;andthereforeI,whatshallIdo?whithershallIgo?Ifonemansinagainstanother,thejudgeshalljudgehim;butifamansinagainsttheLord,whoshall entreat for him? 1 Sam. 2:25. If I had sinned only against myCreator, my Redeemer might have satisfied for me; but I, wretched I,have sinned againstmyRedeemer, and thereforewho shall entreat forme?Ohthefrights,andfears,andhorrors,andterrors,whichthispoorcreaturesufferethunderthesightandsenseofhissinsandguilt!buttheforethoughtsofaneverlastingmiscarriage in theotherworld sinkshimquite down, that he is able to hold up no longer. Thus the Spirit firstploughethupthefallow-groundoftheheart,beforehecastethintoittheseed of grace. He first captivates the sinner, and brings him into aspiritual dungeon, under chains of guilt andhorror, that the very irons

enter intohissoul,beforeheproclaimeth liberty to thecaptive,andtheopeningof theprisontothemthatarebound,Isa.61:1,2.Someindeedarebroughtlowerthanotherswithlegalterror;butsurelynotafewhavesailedtoheavenbytheverygatesofhell.Godisresolvedthatmenshallfeelsineitherhereorhereafter.

Thirdly,TheSpiritconvincethhimoftheimpotencyandweaknessofallthe things in theworld tohelphim, that in thewholegardenofnaturethere is never an herb which can make a salve to heal his woundedconscience.NowthesinnerisscorchedwiththeheatofGod'swrath;heislikeamaninaburningfever, fullofpain,andhetumblethandtossethfromonesideofthebedtotheother,tryingandhopingforease;hegoethtothiscarnalcomfort,orthathumanhelp,tohavehispainabated,andhis sores cured; but none of themwill do; as fast as he claps on thosecarnalplasters,theSpiritcausethhisconsciencetorubthemoff.

It may be first the man useth foreign drugs; he being troubled inconscience, goeth with Cain to the building of cities, to earthlyemployments, that the noise of the hammersmight drown the voice ofconscience; that hismind and body being occupied about other things,consciencemight have no time nor leisure to proceed in preaching itscutting lectures; or else, like Saul, he runneth to his music, to carnalcontentments, tomerrymeetings, jovial companions,hisprefermentorpleasuresintheworld,orsomecarnaldiversion,ifitbepossibletoturnthewaterofhisthoughtsintoanotherchannel,andsokeepthatmillfromgoing which makes such a clacking dreadful noise in his ears, andthreatenethtogrindhimtopowder.Thussinfullyfoolishisman;assoonas ever a fire is kindled in his soul, which would aspire to heaven, herunnethwithhisbucketstoearthlysprings,andfetchethwaterthencetoquenchit;thethroesofthenewbirthdonosoonercomeuponhim,buthe,likesomesimplewoman,takescoolingthings,whichcausehislabourtogobackagain.But theHolyGhost (for I amnowspeakingofone inwhom the Spirit goeth through with the work) makes all these thingsemptytohim;thevirtueofthosepoorcordialsissoonspent,andnowtheman is as sick as before. Conscience, for all these interruptions, stillfollows him with this hue and cry by a warrant from heaven, for thebreach of God's statutes, that the sinner can house nowhere in any of

theseworldly comforts, but conscience is at his heels, raising the townuponhim,andgivethhimnorest;themanfindsthisphysicbutlikehotwatertooneinacoldfitofanague,whichwarmsalittleatpresent,butmakeshishotfitthemoreviolent.

Whenthesinnerfindsthathisexoticaldrugswillnotcurehim,hewilltryin the next place kitchen physic; he will be his own both doctor andapothecary; he hopeth that his praying, and grieving, and trouble ofmind,andresolutiontobebetter,willsatisfyGod'sjustice,andpacifyhisownconscience,andhealitthoroughly.Oh,howthemanendeavourstolickhimselfwhole!Manisaproudcreature,unwillingtobegorborrowofhisneighbours,verysolicitousrather tomakeapoorshiftwithwhathehathofhisown.Themarinerswillrowhardinastormtogettoshorebytheirownpower,beforetheywillawakeJesuswithSaveus,Master,orweperish.

ButtheSpiritconvincethhimofthe insufficiencyofallhisprayers,andtears, and duties to appeaseGod, or satisfy his law; the Spirit shewethhim the narrowness and shortness of all his rags, how they cannotpossibly cover his nakedness; conscience telleth him that, by his veryduties,heissofarfrompayinghisoldscore,thatherunnethfurtherindebt.Alas!saithconscience,thyverydutiesmaydamnthee;hewhoisofpurereyesthantobeholdiniquityseethathousandholesinthybestcoat;theholyGodseethsinsenoughinthemtosendtheeintohell forthem.Canst thou,poorbeggar,with thy counterfeit farthings, think topayaninfinitesum?Canthypoorfiniteperformancessatisfyinfinitejusticefortheviolationofhisrighteousprecepts?Andforthyresolutionsofbetterobedience,canstthouthinkthat futureobediencecansatisfy for formerdisobedience?No,thoughthoucouldstofferthousandsoframs,andtenthousandsofriversofoil,nay,thoughthefirst-bornofthybody,allthesecouldnotbeapropitiationforoneoftheleastsinsofthysoul.No,no,theredemptionofasoulismoreprecious;foralltheseitmustceaseforever.

ThusGodferretsthesinneroutofallhisburrows,andcauseththepoorprodigal,whileheiswanderingfromhisfather,tofindafamineinallthecreatures.Asageneralthatbesiegethacity,dothnotonlyplayinuponitwith his cannons and grenadoes, but also secure the several passages,stopallprovision,thatnoreliefcancometoit,thentheywillyieldupon

his terms; sowhen the Spirit besiegeth the soul, it often plieth it hardwiththebatteriesofthelaw,andalwaysstoppethrelieffromcomingin,eitherfromtheworldoraman'sownrighteousness;andthen,andnottillthen,willthecreatureyielduponthetermsofthegospel.

Fourth, The Spirit convinceth him of thewillingness, suitableness, andall-sufficiencyofJesusChristtohelpandhealhim.

The sinner now in his burning fit is very thirsty; like Hagar, he sitsweeping, forhisbottlesareempty,andhis creature-comfortsare foundbyexperiencetobebrokencisternswhichcanholdnowater;heknowethnotwhattodo;howcanIseethedeathofmysoul?thinkshe.Whenthesinnerisbroughttothisstrait,theSpiritofGodopenethhiseyestoseeawellofsalvation,evenJesus,whodeliverethfromthewrathtocome.

TheSpiritdiscoverethtothesinner,thatthoughhiswoundbedangerous,because theGodwhomhehathprovoked is resolved either tohavehislawsatisfied,orhiseternalwrathendured,yetthatitisnotdesperate,forthereisbalminGilead,andaphysicianinIsrael,thatcanhealhissoul.

It convinceth him that Christ is a suitable help—bread to the hungry,water to the thirsty, rest to theweary and heavy-laden; that he hath aprecious salve made of his own blood, which is a proper and peculiarremedyforhissores.

ItconvincethhimthatChristisanall-sufficienthelp;thathecansupplyall the soul's wants, be they never so many, and bear all the soul'siniquities, be they never so weighty; that he is able to save to theuttermostthosethatcomeuntoGodbyhim,Heb.7:25.Itpresentethtothesoulhis fitnessandfulness inregardofhisnaturesandoffices,andtheimpossibilityofhisbeingunfaithfultothisgreatworkofsavingpoorsinners, for which he came into the world. It sheweth the sinner theinfinitenessofChrist'smerits,andhisomnipotencytohelp,becauseheisGod;theexamplesofotherwoundeddiseasedpersons,whosurrenderedthemselvestothecareofthisphysicianandwerecured.Heshallconvincetheworldofrighteousness,'becauseIgototheFather,andyeseemenomore,' John 16:10; that is, the world shall be convinced that there isrighteousnessenoughinmetosatisfyboththelawandlawgiver,inthatI

shallappearinmyFather'spresence,andthatwithacceptance.Hewouldnot send an angel as his officer to roll away the stone, and release thesurety out of prison, the grave, andbringhimbefore the judgewith somuchcreditandcountenance, if thelawwerenotsatisfiedandthedebtfullydischarged.Heavencouldneverhaveheldme;yewouldhaveseenme upon earth again, if I had not done that work perfectly which theFather gave me to do. 'He shall convince the world of righteousness,becauseIgototheFather.'

It convinceth him that Jesus Christ is exceeding willing to save poorsinners;thatheisjoyfulthatanywillaccepthimfortheirSaviour;thathecamefromheaventoearth,wasbornmeanly, livedmiserably,anddiedshamefully,merelyupon thiserrand, thathemightseekandsave themthatarelost;thatheinvitethhimtocometohim,andpromiseththatheshallbewelcome;thathecalleththemthatgofromhim,butcastethawaynonethatcometohim.

Thuswhen the prodigal is in a far country, and cannot fill his belly somuchaswithhusks, thathe isreadytoperishforhunger,he isshewedandconvincedthatthereisbreadenoughinhisfather'shouse.Whenthesinner is, like the Israelite in thewilderness,beholding thecurseof thelawliketheEgyptianbehindhim,andpursuinghimhard,theredseaofdivine wrath before him, into which he is hastening, his crimson andbloody sins like mountains on each side of him, encompassing himround,thatheknowethnotwhattodo,thentheSpiritbiddethhimlookuptoJesus,andheshallseethesalvationofGod.

ThethirdstepwhichtheSpirittakesisanhelation,tocausethesouloftheconvincedsinnertobreatheandpantafterJesusChrist.Breathisthefirsteffectoflife.Convictionhathemptiedhisstomachofcreatureconfidence,andself-righteousnessmadehimpoorinspirit,andohhowhungryheisaftertherighteousnessofJesusChrist,thebreadwhichcamedownfromheaven! As the thirsty ground cleaves and opens for drops, as the hartpanteth after the water-brooks, so panteth his soul after Jesus Christ,Godblessedforever:thinkshe,OhwhenshallIcomeandappearbeforehim!Hisvoiceis,likeRachel,GivemechildrenorIdie;givemetheholychildJesusorIdie;orlikeAbraham,Lord,whatwiltthougivemeifIgochildless?OhwhatwiltthougivemeifIgoChristless!orliketheJewsto

Philip, Sir, we would fain see Jesus. If the angel shouldmeet him, hemightbespeakthesoulashedidthewoman,'Iknowwhatthouseekest,thou seekest Jesus which was crucified.' Oh the ardent desires, thevehementlongings,theunutterablegroans,whichthispoorcreaturehathafterhisSaviour!asDavid,hecriethout,WhowillgivemetodrinkofthewaterofthewellofBethlehem!Whereisthatblessedguidethatcanleadme,andhelpmetodrinkofthewateroflife!

Methinks I see how Jesus Christ presents himself to the eye of thedejected soul's understanding, in all his glory and gallantry, in hissuitableness unto the sinner's indigencies, and sufficiency for all hisnecessities,withthefreenessofhismercy, thefulnessofhismerits, thesweetnessofhislove;howheappearsbeforethesoulwithhisretinueandtrainofgraces,comforts,hisblood,hisSpirit,thefavourofGod,freedomfrom sin,wrath, hell.On the onehand of him there standhis graciouspromisesofpardon,peace,adoption,sanctification,heart-cheeringlove,andeverlasting life;on theotherhandofhimtherestandshispreciousprecepts of self-denial, crucifying the flesh, walking after the Spirit,despising the sensualpleasures,honours,andprofitsof thisworld,anddelightinginGod,walkingwithhim,havingtheconversationinheaven,andrejoicinginhopeofglory.Inthemiddletherestandsthefairestoftenthousands, adorned as a bridegroom with his richest attire, glisteringwiththejewelsofthosegraceswithwhichhishumanityisadorned,inagreater degree than the heavens could, though every star in it were aglorioussun;butohhowthediamondofhisdeitysparklethinthesoul'saccount,thatmillionsofworldswouldbebutamuck-heaptoit!Ahhowlovelyisheinthesinner'seye!Howinfinitelyravishingtohisheart!Howblessedare those souls, thinks this sinner, that are interested in suchaSaviour! Inconceivablyhappy is that spousewhichhathsobeautiful, soaccomplished,so lovely,so lovingahusband;Godishers,earthishers,heaven is hers, all is hers; holiness is her nature, and happiness is herjointure.Oh that I, oh that Imightbe soblessed as tobe called to themarriage-supper of the Lamb!Who can express the vehement, violentlongingsofthismanafterChrist,astheloadstoneofhisaffections,astheonlycentreofhissoul,theproperremedyforallhismaladies;hadhethebeautyofAbsalom,therenownofSolomon,thewealth,theworthofthewholeworld,likethewisemerchant,hewouldsellalltobuythispearlof

price,andthinkitthebestbargainthateverhemade;nothingissodeartohimbuthewillgiveit;nothingissodifficultbuthewilldoorsufferforChrist;heisofthesamemindwiththemartyr,NonebutChrist,nonebutChrist.Itisreportedofawomanthatwasinthesethroes,thatsheshouldsay, I have brought nine children into theworldwith asmuch pain asmostwomen,yetIwouldbearthemalloveragain,andbearthemallmydaysforChrist.

There ismentionmadeofabird inEgypt,nearNilus,calledthebirdofparadise,whichtheysay,ifitbeonceensnared,isunquietandmournfultill she be delivered: so is this convinced sinner, now he feels himselfentangledinthebondofiniquityandsnaresofthedevil,heisunquiettillhebedelivered.Talktothismanofhisrespect,andfriends,andrichesinthe world, they are as the white of an egg, or a dry chip, without anysavour, relish, or nourishment to him; but tell him of Jesus Christ, anablesuretytodischargeallhisdebts,ohthat isthesavourymeatwhichhissoulloveth.Asamanthatissickandextremelypained,whenyoutalktohimofhiscallingorestate,hehearethnot,heregardethnot;buttellhimofonethatcancurehimofhisdisease,andeasehimofhispain,thenhe will hearken to you; thus it is with this sinner; all his delight is inhearingofChrist,allhislongingistohearfromChrist.Thepoorprisonerthatiscondemnedtobehanged,andhathsentamessengertosueforapardon, never longed so much for his return with joyful news, as thispoorcreatureforaninterestintheMediator.

ThustheSpirithavingconvincedthesoulof itsbeggaryandnakedness,bondage, and misery, causeth it to breathe and long after the riches,liberty,andrighteousnesswhichisinChrist.

Thefourthstepislamentation.ThesoulthatbreathethafteraSaviouristruly broken for his sins; his groans after liberty are accompaniedwithgriefforhisslavery.Nowthecloudsgatherandthickenoverthesoul,andfall down in tears; his sorrow under the conviction of his misery waslegal,butnowit is forhisabuseofmercy,andsoevangelical.Hisheartbefore was as a cloud broken by a thunderbolt, being torn in piecesviolently,andmakingamightynoise;butnow,likethecloudmeltedbythe shining of the sun upon it, it dissolves down sweetly into a fruitfulshower.Helookedonsinbeforeasitwasdamning,asthatwhichwould

casthissoulandbodyintohell;butnowhelooksonsinasitisdefiling,as that whichmakes him unlike to God, and as that bywhich he hathabusedloveandmercy;andtheconsiderationofthiswarmethhisheart,andkindlythawethit.Themanhathnowsomesmallhopeofmercy,andthat,likethenearerapproachofthesun,softeneththatearthwhichwashardenedunderthefrostoflegalterror.

The pump of the sinner's heart was dry, till the water of gospel-grace,apprehended and hoped for, was poured in, and then it sendeth forthabundantly. He returneth now to God with supplication, weeping, andmourning; as Joseph, so this sinner seeketh for a place toweep in; hegoeth into his chamber, falleth down before God, and poureth out hisheart at his eyes and tongue; he accuseth, shameth, condemneth,abhorrethhimself becauseofhis sins.Hedothnotdissemblehisbirth,butacknowledgeththepollutionofhisconception:'BeholdIwasshapenininiquity,andinsindidmymotherconceiveme,'Ps.51:5;heconfesseththetransgressionsofhislife,thathehathgoneastrayfromthewomb,Ps.58:3,thateversincehewasabletogo,hewentastray;heacknowledgethhis transgressions, and is sorry for his sins; with Ephraim, he smitesuponhisthigh,saying,WhathaveIdone?withthepublicanhebeatsonhis breast, crying out, 'God be merciful unto me a sinner;' with theprodigal,heisashamedto lookuptoGod,yetsighsout, 'Father,Ihavesinnedagainstheavenandbeforethee,andamunworthytobecalledthychild.'HethrowethhimselfdownatGod'sfeet,bemoaninghimselfthus:Lord,Iamthegreatestofsinners,lessthantheleastofallthymercies;Ihavedefaced thine image,broken thy laws, sinnedagainst thymajesty;againstthee,theeIhavesinned,anddoneevil inthysight;IhavedonetheworkofSatanthineenemy,andmywagesisnothingbutdeath;howthoupleasesttodealwiththyworthlesscreatureIknownot;buthoweverthou deal with me, thou art righteous, and I will lay my hand on mymouth;ifthousaythouhastnopleasureinme,lo,hereIam,dowithmewhatseemethgoodinthysight;yetohsavemysoul!Tenthousandhellsaremyportion;but ifoutof thybottomlessmercy thoushaltpluckmyfeetoutofthisbottomlessmisery,mysoulshalladmirethyfreegrace,mytongue shall sing aloud of thy richmercy; and oh the obligationwhichthisvilewretchshallhavetobefaithfullyanduprightlyserviceabletothyMajesty!

His contrition runneth all along parallel with his confession; his heartworkethmorethanhislipsandhands;hisaffectionsaremuchmoreself-abasingandhumblingthanhisexpressions.Heseethhimwhomhehathpierced,andmourneth;CalvaryisaBochim,aplaceofweepingtohim;his eyes are so full, that though Christ be nigh him, yet, likeMary, hecannot see him for tears. Never fountain sent forth water more freelythan this sinner doth godly sorrow;when he considerethwhat he hathdone,howhehathsinned,whataGodhehathgrieved,sorrowandgriefoverwhelmhisspirit.

ThefifthstepisimplantationintoChrist;theSpiritnowleadeththechildby the hand unto Christ, nay, grafteth him into Christ. The soul beingconvinced of the necessity it stands in of Christ, of the endlessmiserywhich it must undergo without Christ, of the all-sufficiency that is inChrist,howwilling,howablehe is tobindup thebrokenheart, and tosavethesinfulsoul,dothbythehelpoftheHolyGhostventureitself,anditseverlastingestate,uponJesusChrist,resolvingtostandorfall,liveordie,athisfeet.

Thesinnerisnowbetweenhopeandfear,notknowinghowheshallfare.AsthefourlepersthatwereshutoutofthecityinthefamineofSamaria,consideredwiththemselves,'Ifweenterintothecity,thefamineisinthecity,andwediethere:andifwesitstillhere,wediealso.Nowthereforecome,andletusfallintothehostoftheSyrians:iftheysaveusalive,weshall live; and if they kill us, we shall but die,' 2 Kings 7:3, 4; andaccordinglytheywenttotheSyrians'camp,foundfoodthere,andlived;so the sinner pondereth in his heart: If I go to the world, and lyingvanities thereof, I perish; vanity of vanities is written upon all itsenjoyments;thefamineisthere,thereisnothingthatisbread;itswholeshopcannotaffordaplasterwhichcanhealmywoundedconscience;ifIsit still in this condition, under theweight ofmine iniquities, I perish;theywillunquestionablysinkmeintohell.NowthereforeIwill fall intothehandsoftheLordJesus;ifhesavemysoulIshalllive;ifhedenytoreceivesuchanunworthywretchasIam,Ishallbutdie,Icanbutperish:I will therefore venture. And accordingly the soul goeth to him, andfindeth life in him. I have sometimes thought that when the sinner iscomethusfar,hecarriethhimselfmuchlikeEsther.Whenthekinghad

made an irrevocable decree for the destruction of herself and people,what doth she do? she fasteth and prayeth, and sendeth word toMordecai, 'Iwillgo inunto theking,which isnotaccording to the law;and if I perish, I perish,' Esther 4:16. Thus the poor broken-heartedsinner,perceivingthattheKingofkingshathmadeadecreethatthesoulthatsinnethshalldieeternally,andheisagrievoussinner,hefasteth,hemourneth, he prayeth, and at last resolveth,Well, Iwill go in unto theKing,thoughitbenotaccordingtothelaw,whichshuttethmeupunderguiltandwrath:ifIperish,Iperish;possiblyhemayholdoutthegoldensceptreofgrace,andImayliveinhissight.Thusthepoorcreaturegoeth,makethsupplicationsbelievingly,andprevaileth.

Thedevilnow layeth all theblockshe canpossibly in the soul'sway tohinderitsjourneytoChrist.Aswhenthewomantalkedtoherhusbandofgoing to the prophet for the enlivening of her dead child, he presentlyendeavoureth todissuadeher, that itwouldbe tonopurpose.Whywiltthougo?itisneithernewmoonnorSabbath.Butyetshewent,andhadher child restored to life. Thus to what purpose shouldst thou go toChrist? saith the devil to the penitent sinner. Canst thou think that soholy and righteous aGodwill have the least respect for such awicked,notorious,hellhoundasthouart?Itellthee,hehathsentthousands,thatnever sinned as thou hast done, into hell; and canst thou have anythoughts of heaven? Thou hast done my work all thy days, and nowlookest for a reward from God. No, no, I will pay thee thy wages inblackness of darkness for ever. If thou hadst intended for life, thoushouldsthavemindeditsooner;thouhastdayswithoutnumberbrokenthelaw,andmanyatimerejectedthegospel,andnowitistoolate.Godcalled,andthouwouldstnothear;nowthoumayestcalllongenough,forhewillnothear thee.He tells theeasmuchwithhisownmouth,Prov.1:25–32.Thereforethoumayestsparethypainsandprayers, forallwillbe to no purpose. Surely thou hast an impudent face and a brazenforehead to expect such choice blessings as pardon and life from thatChrist whom thou hast persecuted in his people, rejected in his laws,preferringtheworldandthefleshbeforehim,anddaringhimtohisveryface. Thus he that was the sinner's tempter to those sins, turns histormentorforthem;andhethat,whenthesoulwaspostingtohell,badeitnotdoubtofheaven,doth,nowthecreatureiscreepingtowardseternal

life, persuade him that it is impossible to escape eternal death. Butnotwithstanding these discouragements, the sinner will go to the greatProphetofthechurchforthelifeofhisdeadsoul.Hethinks,itistrueIam a grievous sinner, but I know that he is a gracious Saviour. I seenothingbutmiseryandhellinme,butIseemercyandheaveninhim;formywarrantIhavehisprecept,'Comeuntomeallyethatlabourandareheavyladen,'Mat.11:28;formyencouragementIhavehispromise,'Iwillgiveyourest.''Himthatcomethuntome,Iwillinnowisecastout,'John6:37.Iwillthereforego,whatevercomeofit,andlaymyselfathisfeet;ifhecondemnme,andspurnmeintohell,Iwilljustifyhim;peradventurehemay lendmehishand,andraisemeupwithhopeofheaven;othershavegonetohim,andhehathbidthemwelcome.Ohtheringsandrobes,the kisses and embraces, which many returning prodigals have had ofhim!Who knoweth but hemay be gracious tome? If he had not beenwilling thatpoor sinners should live,hewouldnothavedied; ifhehadbeenunwillingthatIshouldcome,whydothhecallme?Well,whatevercomeofit,Iwillgo;itmaybeImaybehidinthedayoftheLord'swrath.Thusfaithatfirststandethbutononeweakfoot.

IsupposethatwhenthesinnerisinthisconditiontheverycommandofGod, enjoining him to believe in the name of his Son, is a specialinstrument in the hand of the Spirit to draw him unto Christ. LikeAbraham,hebeingcalledofGod,obeyed,notknowingwhitherhewent;he being called of God to cast himself on Jesus Christ, obeyeth, notknowinghowheshallspeed.

The disciples,when they hearChrist speaking to them in themorning,'Castontheothersideoftheshipandyeshallfind,'answerhim,'Wehavefishedallnightandcaughtnothing;neverthelessatthycommandwewillletdownthenet.'Sothepenitentmanhavingtriedthisandthatmeans,and found nowater, nomeat, no solid food for his hungry and thirstysoul, heareth at last Christ calling to him, 'Ho every one that thirsteth,cometothewaters,buywineandmilkwithoutmoneyandwithoutprice.'Castthysins,thysoul,onme,andthoushaltfindrest.Lord,thinkshe,Ihave tried creatures, and they cannothelpme; I have triedduties, andtheycannoteaseme;Ihavetakenmuchpains,andcaughtnothing;andshouldIcometothee,wouldstthouopenthineeyeuponsuchawretch?

My unworthiness makes me mistrust the success; nevertheless at thycommand Iwill do it.Andnowhe cometh inhis sinking estate to takeholdonthearmoftheLordwhichthegospelstretchethouttohim,andtherebyheissaved.

Thelaststepisaresolutionofthesinnertogiveuphimselftoallthelawsof Christ, or a hearty acceptation of the Redeemer as Saviour andsovereign.Theheartofthemanissomeltedbyevangelicalsorrowforsin,and the heat of God's love to his soul, that he is like soft wax for anyimpression;Godmaycommandhimwhathepleaseth;hecleavethtothelawwithfullpurposeofheart.Before,hewasliketheprodigal,hemustgoas farashecouldfromhisFather'shouse;theordersthereweretoopure, the laws there too strict, the discipline there too severe; hetravelleththereforeintoafarcountry.Butnowthemanishungry;hewillsubmittothedutyofason,sohemaybuthavethechildren'sbreadanddiet.Nay,nowhe iscometohimself; it ishismeatanddrink todo thewillofGod:heseethsuchequityinGod'swill,suchbeautyinhisworship,such excellency and comfort in his ways, that hewould not part JesusChrist and his holy precepts, which he now savoureth, for all earthlypleasures:he is tiedso firmly tohismasterwith thebondofunfeignedlove,thatSatanhimselfwillbutworkatthelabour-in-vainwhenhegoethabouttoseparatehimandhisservice.

He writes holiness to the Lord upon his body, soul, estate, family,relations,andallthathehath,thankfullyacknowledgingGod'sproprietyin all, and his own felicity to consist in improving all for God. HeconsiderethhowinfinitehisobligationstoGodare,whatahellofendlesshorrorhe is redeemed from,whataheavenof loveandhappinesshe iscalledto,andwisheththathehadorcoulddosomethingworthyofsuchaGod. And because he hath nothingmore or better, he gives himself toGod: as Æschines, when he saw his fellow-scholars give their master,Socrates,largepresents,beingpoor,andhavingnothingtogive,wentandgave himself to his master, acknowledging that he was his devotedservant.

The sinner before was unbroken, and so as unfit for subjection as theunbrokencoltforthesaddle;butnowtheheartbeinghumbled,theearisheedy towhateverGodspeaketh, 'Lord,whatwilt thouhaveme todo?'

Acts9:6.

It is with a humbled and unhumbled sinner as with twomen that aregoing to market, whereof the one hath need, he and his family are inextremewant,readytoperishforbread.Nowthismanwillgo,whateverweather come; if it rainnever so fast,hewill go;whenhecomes there,whatever the price be, hewill buy; though he pawn his clothes hewillhavebread.Why?heisliketofamishforwantofit;breadhecomesfor,andbreadhemusthave.Theotherhathnogreatneed; therefore, ifheliketheweather,hewillgo;ifnot,hewillstayathome:ifhegoeth,whenhe comes to the market he will buy or forbear as the price of thingspleaseth him; he is indifferent whether he lay out hismoney or no; ifcommodities are held at a high rate, he will go as he came, and buynothing;andallbecausehehathnoneed,hecandowellenoughwithoutthem. Thus a humbled sinner seeth, nay, feeleth his extreme need ofChrist,thathemustperisheverlastinglywithoutaninterestinhim;andtherefore,whateveritcosthim,hewillhaveChrist:heisresolvedtodenyhimself,tocrucifytheflesh,tohatefather,mother,house,name,land,allforChrist.LetGodholdthepriceofhisSonneversodear,hewillsellall,buthewillbuythispearl.Andwhatisthereason?Trulybecausethismanhath need; he knoweth the absolute necessity which he standeth in ofChrist;thatnonebutChristcandeliverhimfromtheweightofhissins,theAlmightyGod's fury,and thevengeanceofeternal fire; thereforehecomes for, and a Saviour he will have, whatever commands orprohibitionsarejoinedwithhim.Butanunhumbledsinnerseethnothisextreme need of Christ; and therefore, though when he heareth of theinfinite perfections in Christ, and the unspeakable privilegeswhich theregeneratehavebyChrist,hewillacknowledgethatthewaresaregood,hehathnothingtosayagainstthem,butthepriceistoodear,hewillnotcomeuptoit.Andwhy?TrulybecauseheseethnothisneedofChrist;hethinkshecandowellenoughwithoutChrist.IfGodwouldlethimserveChrist,andtheworldandfleshwithhim,hewouldnotcaremuch ifhedidbuy;butifhecannothaveChristathisownprice,farewellChrist,andpardon,andmercy,andGod,andeternal life, farewell forever forhim,andallbecausethemanisawholeman,unbroken,unhumbled.Butyouhavereadintheformerstepsthatthesinner,beforehecomesthusfar,isthoroughlymelted,andthereforehe is foranymouldwhichGodthinks

good,Mat.9:12.

YetIbelievethatamanorwoman,whomtheSpiritofGodhathbroughtover to JesusChrist, dothby thenewnaturebestowedon them,or thelaw of God written within them, resolve upon all known duties, andagainstallknowniniquities,moreoutof lovetoGodandholiness,thanoutofanyslavish fearofwrathandhell.Themanseethby the law thecontrarietyofsintotheimageofGod,andconsequentlytohisownrealand spiritual good, whereby there ariseth within him not only anestrangednessfrom,butanenmityagainst,sin;thoughitweretheobjectof his affections before, yet it is the object of his passions now. So forduties,thesoulisbrought,throughworkingoftheSpirit,toapproveanddelight in thegoodandperfectandacceptablewillofGod.Communionwith God, and conformity to God, are the utmost of his desires andendeavours.Oh,howwillinglydoththisChristiantakeuponhimtheyokeofChrist,notcomplainingofitsuneasiness,butofhisownunholiness!

Themanformerlywasasavirgin:beforemarriageshestandethuponherterms,shewillindentwithhersweetheartwhatshallbesettleduponher,andhowhe shalldealwithher, or else shewillnothavehim;butnowChristbyhisSpirithathprevailedwiththesoul,anditisheartilywillingtotakehimforbetterforworse,toresignupalltoChrist,topartwithallfor Christ, to take all fromChrist, to be disposed in all by Christ; in aword, it promiseth with the whole heart to be a loving, faithful, andobedientwife;andnowthematchismade,nay,theSaviourandthesoulareactuallymarriedtogether,andohwhatahappy,joyfuldayisthis!IfAaron,whenhemetMoses,wasgladathisheart,howgladis thispoorsoulnowhemeetswiththeMessias!TheFatheracceptshimforhischild,theSonacceptshimforhisspouse,theSpirithathgivenearnestalreadytohave theChristian'sheart forhiseverlastinghabitation; thedevils inhellarevexing,theangelsinheavenaresinging,thesaintsonearthareshouting,foritismeetthattheyshouldbemerry,forthissonwasdead,andisalive,waslost,andisfound,wasacursedsinner,andisbecomeablessedsaint.

SoIhavedespatchedthefirstbranchofthissecondhelptoregeneration,namely, an observation of those several steps whereby the wanderingsheep is brought home. I come now to the second branch of this help,

whichisapliablesubmissiontotheworkingsandmotionsoftheSpirit,whentheSpiritatanytimemakethhisaddressestothysoul.

Reader,Imustearnestlybeseechthee,ifthouhasttheleastsparkoflovetothysoul,andendlessgoodintheotherworld,thatthoubemoretenderofthemotionsoftheSpiritthanoftheappleofthineeye.WhentheHolyGhostcomethtothysoulbyitsmotionstogood,thykindentertainmentof itmaybeasmuchas thineeternalhappiness isworth,andprobablyinvitetheSpirittostaywiththee,perfectthework,andabideintheeforever;whereasifthoushouldstgrieveorquenchtheSpirit,andaffrontthisambassadorwhichissenttotreatwiththeeabouttermsofpeacebetweenGod and thy soul, hemay be calledhome, and thounever hear of himmore.

We read inGen. 1:2 that the Spirit ofGodmovedupon the face of thewaters.Severalreadthewords,TheSpiritofGodwassittingorhatchinguponthewaters.Itisametaphortakenfrombirdsorhens;theysitandmove upon their eggs to hatch them, and bring them forth, and whentheyarehatched,theystillsitandmoveuponthemtocherishandbringthemtoperfection.So theSpiritofGodsatormovedupon that faceofthedeep,thatbyhismotionorincubationhemighthatchandbringforthout of that vast chaos the several kinds of creatures. Thus the Spiritmovethuponthyheart,hesittethupon,hebroodethonthee,thathemayhatchandbringtheeforthanewcreature.Thereforeconsiderwhatthoudost,andhowthoucarriestthyselftowardshim.Fowls,whentheyhavebeenmuchdisturbed,havelefttheireggsandneverhatchedthem,theyhavecometonothing;shouldthouresisttheSpirit inhisoperations,orquenchhiminhismotionswhenheisbroodingonthysoul,hemaytakehiseternalflightfromthee.

WhentheSpiritcomethtothysoulbyitsmotions,dissuadingtheefromsin,orstirringtheeuptoholiness,JesusChristthenknocksatthedoorofthy heart; every motion is a knock from the hand of Christ; if thouhearkenest and openest, he will come in and sup with thee; but if,notwithstandinghisknocking,thouwiltnothear,thoughhecomethuponan errand so infinitely for thine advantage, he will depart away in adistaste,asneighbourswhentheyaresouncivillyused,andthoumayestneverhearofhimmore.

Thouartapttocomplainthatthouwantesthelptoturnfromsin,andtoturn untoGod. I tell thee,when the Spiritmoveth andworkethwithinthee tomindthysoulandthineeternalestate,heoffereth theehishelpandassistance,andifthouhearkenestto,andobeyesthismotions,thoushalthavehishelp.Ashewasteaching,thepowerofGodwaspresenttohealthem,Luke5:17.WhilsttheSonofmanwasteaching,atthatnickoftime the power of Godwas present to healmen's bodies. Sowhen theSpiritismoving,atthatverytimethepowerofGodispresenttohelpthysoul:now,ifthoutakestthattime,thoumayestbeahappymanforever.Ifwhenthewindsblowfairlyformen'svoyage,theythenhoistuptheirsails and be going, theymay, through the help of thewind, be at theirhaveninconvenienttime;butiftheyneglecttheopportunity,andwillnotlaunchoutwhilethewindofferethitshelp,theymaybedeadbeforetheyhaveanotherwind,andsonevergothatvoyage.Thusifwhenthegalesofthe Spirit blow, and offer thee their assistance for regeneration andsalvation, thou then presently launchest out, and compliest with itsmotions,throughitshelpthoushouldstbeseasonablyandsafelylandedin Christ, and at the haven of heaven; but if thou then liest still andneglectestthisopportunity,GodknowethbutthoumayestbedeadbeforetheSpiritblowsofavourablyfortheeagain.

Solomontellethus that there isa timeforeverypurposeunderheaven,andatimetobeborn,Eccles.3:1,2.Thereistimeforeverypurpose,thatis, an opportunity when the work may be done best, and with mostadvantage; yea,when itmustbedone, or shallnotbedoneat all.Nowsucha time, suchanopportunity there is for thenewbirth; there is anacceptedtime,atimewhenGodmaybefound,whenheisnear,adayofsalvation,2Cor.7:2;Ps.30:6,and55:6.This iswhentheSpiritmovethandstirreth,andoffereththeehishelp;ifthoupassestbythattime,anddost not then strike in, thou mayest come, as Esau, too late for theblessing;thoumayest,assomeidlepersonsthataretipplinganddrinkingin an ale-house when they should be in the market, let slip thyopportunity,andfindittoolatetobuythewineandmilkinthegospel.

It isonegreatmiseryofmenandwomenthattheyobservenot,neitherimprovetheiropportunities.Theturtle,andthestork,andthecrane,andtheswallow,theyallknowtheiropportunityandtheirtime,Jer.8:7;but

thegenerationofmankindneglect theirs. 'Ohthat thouhadstknown inthis thy day, the things which concern thy peace'! Opportunity is atransientthing,itisquicklygone,butitbringethalastingtreasurealongwithit,whichifneglectedcanneverberecovered.Timeisallthewhileamanlivethontheearth;butopportunityisonlywhentheSpiritmoveth:'Meyehavenotalways,'saithChrist.

Friend, thou wilt make hay while the sun shineth; I mean improveopportunities for the good of thine outward estate; when the heavensoffertheetheirhelp,thenthouwiltcutthycornorhay,makeit,andcarryitin.Forthysoul'ssakedonotneglecttheSpirit,whenheoffereththeehis help for a spiritual harvest; when the Holy Ghostmoveth, like theangeluponthewaters, thenat thatnickof time, if thousteppestdown,artpliabletoitsmotions,thoumayestbehealed.

TheSpiritofGodisatenderthing,saithone;grieveitonceandyoumaydriveitawayforever:'GrievenottheSpirit,'Eph.4:30,muchlessquenchit, least of all resist it.Masters of a callingwill not be checked, 1 Thes.5:19;Acts7:51.

The client, by losing a term, hath lost his suit; Saul, by losing hisopportunity,lostakingdom,1Sam.10:9,13.Reader,thewaytolosethekingdomofheavenistoneglectandslightthemotionsoftheSpirit,theonlyopportunityforthysalvation.

For thinehelphereinIshalldirect theehowtodemeanthyself towardsthe Spirit when he maketh his addresses unto thy soul for thyregenerationandquickening; inwhich I shall take thee,as indeed thouartinthineunregenerateestate,forapatientdangerouslysick,yea,untodeatheternal,thoughthouthinkestthyselfwhole,andtheSpiritofGod,asheis,foraskilful,able,andcompassionatephysician.

First, I suppose that this tender physician, beholding thee very sick,notwithstanding thy conceit that thou art well enough, and dailyincreasingthydistemper,dothcometotheeandacquainttheethatthouartadiseasedperson,andthatunlessthouforbearestsuchandsuchsins,such and such things, which feed thy disease, thou wilt make thycondition,which is alreadydangerous, to be desperate and incurable. I

mean theHolyGhost enlighteneth thymind to see, and convinceth thyconscienceof thy sins andmisery, thatwhereasbefore thou thoughtestthatthouwastrich,andincreasedwithgoods,andhadstneedofnothing,Rev.3:11,yetnowthouseestthatthouartwretched,andmiserable,andpoor,andblind,andnaked,andthatsuchandsuchcourseswhichthoutakest will unavoidably tend to thy ruin. Possibly thou art oneaccustomedtowickedcompany,totheale-house,todealunrighteouslyinthyparticularcalling,tolayasidepraying,hearing,reading,andthelikeduties.NowtheSpiritofGodinthyconsciencemoveththeetolaydownthese ungodly customswhich thouhast taken up, and to take up thesedutiesandperformanceswhichthouhastlaiddown,andconvinceththeebythewordthat this is thewillofGod.Ohnow, friend, lookto thyself,thatthoudostnotsinagainstthislight,norplaybythatcandlewhichtheSpirit ofGod sets up for thee towork by! If thou hadst a guest of anyquality in thine house, and shouldst burn things of an ill savour in hischamber,whichthouknewesthehated,orshouldstfilltheroomwhereinhe lodgethwithfilthanduncleanness,wouldstthounotprovokehimtospeed away in a distaste, and to resolve against ever coming at thinehouseagain!Imusttelltheethatshouldstthougooninthecommissionof those iniquities, and neglect of those duties, which the Spiritconvinceththeeof, itwouldbefarmoredistastefultotheSpiritofGod,than all the forementioned uncivil usage could be to an emperor. TheHolyGhostiscomparedtofire,Acts2,asthewordquenchingimplieth.Now,howisfirequenchedandputout?bothbythrowingwateronit,andby taking away the wood from it. Shouldst thou, notwithstanding itschecks and convictions, continue in any way of open wickedness, thouthrowestwaterupon it; and shouldst thouomit thoseholyduties, thouwithdrawest fuel from it; and therefore be confident the fire will bequenchedandgoout.

Bysinningagainsttheseconvictionsandlightthouartaprofesseddefieranddarerofhim,andmayestconfidentlyexpectthatheshouldgivetheeup to judiciary inward darkness, which is but the forerunner of utterdarkness,Rom.1:20–22;James3:18;Prov.5:11–13;John9:41.

Ifthouimprovestthatlittlestockofhelp,whichtheHolyGhostaffordeththee,well,thoumayhopethatthymasterwilltrusttheewithmore.Every

act of obedience fitteth for greater obedience. But if thou squanderestthatawayprodigallybysinningagainstit,thoumayestlookfornomore.

Dearfriend,betenderofthefirstmotionsoftheSpirit.Thousittestcoldandfrozeninthynaturalestate.Now,aseverthouwouldsthaveagoodfire to melt thee kindly, to thaw thee thoroughly, to warm thy hearteternally,makemuchofthosesparks.Asthoudesirestaspiritualflame,whichmayascendtoheaven,takeheedlest,bypresumptuoussins,thoublowestoutthosesparks.Asthebestwaytoquenchthefierydartsofthedevil, that evil spirit, is to reject them, to disobey them in the firstmotions,whenthedevil firstkindleth them, thenthrowwateron them,thendetest them,and that fireofhellwillbequenched; so thereadiestway to quench the fiery darts of the good Spirit is to slight the firstmotions of it. If thou strive against these firstmotions of him, hemayneverstrivewiththeemore,Gen.6:3.

It may be thou art a drunken wretch, an unclean person, a scoffer atgodliness,aswearer,aliar,acheaterbyfalseweights,ormeasures,orthelike, and the Spirit of God whispereth thee in the ear,Man, dost thouknowwhatthoudost?thouartinalostestate,inadamnablecondition.Turnatmyreproof,saithGod,andIwillpourmySpirituponthee,Prov.1:24.Forbearsuchsins,andIwillassisttheefortherecoveryofthysoul.Ohnowlooktothyself,venturebynomeansupontheforbiddenfruit.Ihavereadofone,thatbeingtroubledwithsoreeyes,askedaphysician'sadvice. The physician told him, that if he did not forbear his drunken,intemperatecourses,hewouldlosehissight.Hemakesnomoreofit,butpresently crieth out, Farewell sweet sight, farewell sweet sight.Hewasresolvedtolosehissightratherthanleavehissin.Thouartdiseased,thetenderphysiciancomethtotheewithoutsendingfor,andgiveththeehisblessedcounselwithoutasking,anditisthis,thatthoumustforbearthylewd, sinfulways, or else thouwilt lose thy soul, thy Saviour, thyGod,thinehappinessforever.Now,wiltthou,bycontinuinginsuchcourses,and rejecting his first counsel, say, Farewell precious soul, farewelldearest Saviour, farewell blessedGod, farewell glorious angels, farewellperfectspirits,farewellfulnessofjoy,riversofpleasures,farewelltoyouall, ay, and farewell for ever.Takeheedwhat thoudostwith these firstmotions of the Spirit, lest he take of thee his last leave, and bid thee

farewellforever.

When a noble person should come to thine house, one by whom thouexpectesttobepromotedhighlyandenrichedgreatly,oronewhoseheirthou lookest to be, how welcome wouldst thou make such a man,especiallythefirsttimethathecomethtovisitthee!anduponthoseveryaccounts,Imeanforthyadvantage,hemusthavethebestroom,thebestfare,themostpleasinglanguage,themostrespectfulcarriage;allthingsmust be done, asmuch as possibly can be, according to hismind, andnothingmustbedonewhichisknowntobeoffensivetohim;andall,lestheshouldbeprovokedtoforsakethee,tocasttheeoff,andtodonothingatallforthee.Reader,istherenotfarmorereasonthatwhentheinfiniteSpirit of the blessed God cometh to thine heart, who only is able topromotetheetobecomethechildofGod,anheirofheaven,andtoenrichtheewiththeimageofGodinregeneration;thatwhenhecomethfirsttothee, and for these very ends, thou shouldst give him all the respectsimaginable, that thou shouldst follow his counsel, forbear what thouknowest grieves him, do what thou knowest will please him, lest hedepart away from thee, and do none of these things for thee? Saul, bydisobeyingthecounselofSamuelfromGod,concerningtheslaughteroftheAmalekites,didsogrievehisSpirit,thatSamueltellshimplainly,thatGodhadrejectedhimfrombeingking.Andthetextsaithexpressly,that'Samuel came nomore to see Saul until the day of his death,' (that is,never,) 'neverthelessSamuelmourned forSaul.'Trulynow theSpiritofGod delivereth thee counsel, to destroy those notorious sins, which ifthouwilt, thoucanst forbear; shouldst thouspare those fat, thoseking-corruptions, though the Spirit of God may mourn for thee, that thoushouldst be such awilful soul-murderer, and reject the counsel ofGodagainstthyself,yethemayutterlyrejecttheefrombeinganyoftheheirsoftheheavenlykingdom,andthoumayestseehimnomoretothedayofthydeath.

If thou livest under the gospel, I question not but theHoly Spirit dothmovetheetoforsakethineungodlycomrades,thyscandalouscrimes,andtosetuponprayerinsecret,inprivate,Scriptureandmeditation,whichImusttelltheethatifthouhastwillathome,aswesay,thouhastpowerenoughinthinehandstodo;againandagainIpraytheetocherishand

obeysuchmotions,(theSpiritmakesshortworkwithsome,)lesthebidtheeadieu,andclapsuchacurseuponthee,thatthouneverclawestoffwhilethoulivest,no,notwhilstthouhastabeing.

Itmaybethisskilfulphysicianproceedethfurther;hedothnotonlyshewtheethydisease,andtelltheewhatthingsarebad,whatthingsaregoodforit,butalsogivestheephysic,inordertothycure,andsuchphysicasworkstopurpose,andmakestheeheart-sickindeed.Imean,theSpiritofGod proceedeth from illumination to humiliation; it doth not onlyconvince thee of thy wounds and putrified sores, but also lanceth andcutteththem,appliethastingingcorrosivetoeatupthyproudflesh,andputteththeetogreatpain;theSpiritsheweththeesinandwrathintheircolours,makingtheeseetheformermorefrightfulthanadevil,andfeelthelattermorepainfulatthyheartthanadagger;possiblyhetakestheeandholds thee,as itwere,overhell,making theesee thesmokeof thatbottomless pit, smell the brimstone, and feel the scorchings of thateternal fire, that thou beginnest to sink under the weight of thywickedness,andtocryout, 'Mineiniquitiesaregoneovermyhead,andtheyareaburdentooheavy formetobear,'Ps.38:4.Thosesinswhichwereassweetashoneyinthymouth,arenowtakendownintothybelly,andtheyaretheremorebitterthangall.Thelawchargeththeehomewithitsgreatguns,thatthoufearestandtremblest,andknowestnotwhithertoflyforsuccour.

Ifthouartcomethusmuchofthyjourney,Iwouldbidtheewelcomesofar, and would tell thee, for thy encouragement, that these pangs andthroesseemto foretell thenewbirthtobecoming.If thousufferestnotthe devil and thy corrupt heart to be at thy labour, to try theirexperiments,andtamperaboutthee,forquestionlesstheywoulddestroyboththeeandthebabeofgrace inthywomb,butsufferest theSpiritofGod tobe thymidwife,and followesthisdirections, Idurstbe themanthat shouldprophesy ahappy and safedelivery.But thouknowest thatthe condition of one in travail is very ticklish; a littlemiscarriagemaythenundobothmotherandchild; therefore itbehoveth theenow tobeextraordinarycarefulwhatthoudost,andhowthoucarriestthyself;itisasmuchasthylifeisworth.ForthydirectionIshalltelltheewhatthoushouldstnotdo,andwhatthoushouldstdo.

Be sure that thou do not run to creatures for comfort. Foolish people,when sometimes an able chirurgeon hath laid some sharpmedicine totheirfesteredwounds,whichputsthemtomuchpain,though,unlessbysuchmeans the rottenness of them be eaten up, and the corruption inthem forced out, they can never be cured, yet they are ordinarily soimpatient,thattheywillnotendureit,butaskthisgoodwoman,andthatneighbour,iftheydonotknowamildermedicineforsuchasore.Surely,say they, thismedicinewhich thedoctorusethwillneverdo it;we findthememberorpartveryangry,andextremelyraging.Andthensomeoneor other acquainteth them with gentler means, which they presentlyapply, and thereby skin over their sores before they are half searched,that afterwards the wound either breaks out again, and puts them tomorepain if ever they behealed, or else keeps still in, overspreads thebody,andkillsthem.Thusdotoomanywiththephysicianoftheirsouls,and thereby do often undo themselves. The Spirit of God applieth theterrorsandconsternationsofthelaw,tomakewayandpreparethemforthedaintiesandconsolationsofthegospel;thegoodSamaritanpourethwine into thewound to search it, before he poureth oil to heal it.Nowfoolish men are impatient, not able to bear such sad, melancholythoughts,astheycallthem,andthereforetheyoftenbreakawayfromtheSpirit of God before they are thoroughly humbled, and run to theirearthly enjoyments, whereby they get some present ease, but here orhereafterfargreaterpain.

ItisreportedoftheItalians,thatinagreatthundertheyringtheirbells,andshootofftheircannons,thatthenoiseofthemmightdrownthevoiceof the thunder. Thus do some with the voice of their awakened andterrified consciences, they seek to drown it by the noise of worldlybusinesses, recreations, or it may be ungodly delights; but surelydamningasoulisnotthewaytosaveasoul.

Reader,didstthouneverknowofanythatwereinajourney,andcomingtosomedeep,dirty,potchylane,theythoughttoavoidit,andbrokeoverthehedgeintothefield?butwhentheyhadroderoundandround,theycouldfindnowayout,butwereforcedtogooutwheretheygot in;andthen,notwithstandingtheirunwillingness,togothroughthatmirylane,orelsenotgothatjourney.Trulysoitisinthyjourneytoheaven;thouart

nowcometothisdeeplaneofhumiliation,throughwhichallmustgothatwill reach that city, 'whose builder andmaker isGod.'Do not think toavoidit,no,nottheleastpartofit;forthisisthenarrowwayandstraitgate that leadeth to life. Suppose thou shouldst run to the world, oranythingherebelow,now thoubeginnest to be sensible of thy sicknessandpain,andsoinahopefulwayofrecovery;first,Itisimpossiblethatanyofthosethingscancurethee,—miserablecomfortersaretheyall,andphysicians of no value. Can a silver slipper cure the gout? or a goldencrowntheheadache?orthegreatestempireintheworldthepainoftheteeth?Much less can these things cure the diseases of thy soul.All thewrappingofthyfoot,thathathathorninit,thoughwithneversomuchfinescarletcloth,willbealtogetherineffectualtoeasetheeofthypain,forthe thorn must be pulled out; so must sin be plucked out, its guiltremoved, before thou canst possibly be eased. Butmy great reason is,which I desire thee to consider seriously, shouldst thou throw off thismedicineofthyspiritualphysicianbecauseitissomewhatsharp,andrunto the empirics and mountebanks of the world, thou wilt provoke thytender, able physician to leave thee; (for what man will bear suchaffronts?) andwhere art thou then?whatwill becomeof thee for ever?Thosethatworkincoalminesfindbyexperiencethattheearthsendethup damps which quench and put out their candles; and what thenbecomesof themen thatare there? theyareoftenslain.Shouldst thou,like Jonah, run from the presence of the Lord, to more pleasingemploymentsthantheworkofathoroughhumiliation,hewillbringtheebackagainto thesamebusiness,eitherbystormsandtempests,orelsesuch damps will arise from thine earthly interruptions, as will quenchGod'sSpirit,andeternallyruinthyspirit.

Theevilspirit,Iknow,willbebusytopersuadetheetosmotherandputoutthesparkswhichthegoodSpirithathkindledwithinthee,byheapsofworldlyrubbishanddirt;buttakeheedwhatthoudost,forthysoulisatstake.Ifthosesparksshoulddie,thouartliketoliveinhell-fireforever.Observe how it fared with unhappy Felix. He was a prisoner to hisprisoner, and in a readyway tohavebeenone ofChrist's freemen, butnowhell'sjailerwasliketoloseoneofhiscaptives,forIquestionnotbutSatan, for fear of losing him, trembledmore than he; what, therefore,throughthedevil'sadvicemustFelixdo?Hemustneedscurehimselfof

hisconvulsionbyanabruptdiversion.WhentheSpiritstruckinwiththeword, and caused him to tremble, he sendeth Paul away till anotherseason,andweneverreadwhenthattimecame.HadFelixstruckinwiththeSpirit,whentheironofhisheartwashot,hemighthavebeenhappyindeed;buthequencheththosemotionswhichweresolikelytorecoverhissoul,andthereby,inallprobability,missethsalvation.

SomesaythatSamson'smotherwasforbiddenwineandstrongdrinkallthewhileshewaswithchildofhim,partlybecausethatwineandstrongdrink arenaught for the child in thewomb. I am confident that carnaldiversions, that toputback thypangsbyearthlyaffairs,muchmorebywineandstrongdrink, is infinitelyprejudicial to thebabeofgrace,andmanytoonebutitmaycausethineeternalmiscarriage.

Friend, that which in this case I would advise thee to do, is to betakethyselftothycloset,orchamber,andtheretofalldownbeforethemosthighGod,and toaccuse, indict,andcondemnthyself for thysins;pourout thy soul before the Lord in acknowledging the pollutions of thynature, the transgressionsof thy life,withall theirbloodyaggravations,confessingtherighteousnessofthelaw,andthyobnoxiousnesstherebytotheinfiniteandeternalwrathoftheLord.Ohnowisthetimetorepent,with that repentance which is never to be repented of; if ever thouwouldstdrawwater,andpouritoutbeforetheLord,itmustbenowtheSpirithath thawed the tap;neglect this season, and itmay freezeagainspeedily.WhenNathancame fromGod toDavidafterhis fall,whenhehadlaininhisimpenitencymanymonths,andtoldhimofhissins,andconvincedhimthathewasworthy todie,whatdothDaviddo?dothheruntohiscrown,orhonour,orpowerintheworld?No.Dothhehastilysnatchatthepromises?No;buthegoethtoGod,asappearsbythetitleand body of the 51st Psalm, bewaileth his original and actual sins,condemnethhimself,justifiethGod,offerethupthesacrificeofabrokenheart, beggeth hard for pardon and holiness. Oh do thou follow thisblessedpattern!Ifthybodyweresickofaviolentfever,andnaturewereso far thy friend, aswhen thouwast in thy bed to put thee into a finesweat, and therebygive theehopeof evacuating the ill-humours,whichcausethydisease,throughthepores,whatwouldstthoudointhiscase?Wouldst thourisepresently,andrun into thecoldair?orwouldst thou

notratherabidestillinthybed,and,ifneedwere,callformoreclothestoincreasethysweat,wherebythybodymightbeperfectlycured?Thusitisinthestateof thysoul: thouartsickuntodeath; theSpiritofGodissomuchthyfriendastohelptheetosweatoutthydistemperbyhumiliationandgodlysorrow;itwereamadnessintheenowtoruntotheopenairoftheworld,ortodoanythingwhichmighthinderthissweating;thyonlywayis toencourageandincrease it,bybetakingthyself tothychamber,andtheretolookintothyheart,andconsiderhowfullitisofunholiness;tolookbackuponthylife,andconsiderhowcontraryithathbeentothedivine law; to look up to God, and consider themajesty, holiness, andmercy, which are in himwhom thou hast provoked; this is the way tocontinue and increase thy humiliation, and thereby (for the Spiritdelightethtoproceedinassistingthosethatthuscherishhismotions)tobeperfectlyhealed.DutiesnowaretheSpirit'spleasantgarden,inwhichhe will delight to walk with thee; they are like bellows to blow up theheavenly fire intoa flame,or asoil to the lamps,whichwill keep themever burning. Philosophers tell us, that elementary fire wants no fuel,though culinary doth. Divines tell us, that the Spirit of God needs notordinances,forheisinfiniteinpower;butthathewillnotworkwithoutthem,whereheaffordsthem,ismanifestlyhispleasure.

Reader, if thou art humbled, as I have before spoken, thou lookest onthyself as a vile creature, even as a dog; I would have thee now verycareful, that thou wait patiently, for the bountiful housekeeper of theworldispreparingsomegoodfoodforthee,anddonotcatchtoohastilyatthechildren'sbread,thepromises,lestitbetakenfromthee,andthoumeetwithablow.Whenawoundisdeep,thereismuchwisdomrequiredtokeepitsometimeopenwithatent,andnottohealituptoosoon,lestits cure be imperfect. Do thou wait God's leisure, bemoaning thy sins,abhorring thyself, praying fervently for thy soul; and be confident thatJesusChrist,whoisalreadyuponhisway,willariseupontheespeedily,withhealingunderhiswings.

Itmaybethatthistender,ablephysiciancomethnearertothee;hedothnotonlyshewtheethenatureanddangerofthydisease,andmakethee,whowerebeforesenseless,apprehensiveofitbyfeelingthysickness,butdoth also discover to thee an excellent and costly remedy, which hath

curedmanyofthyverydisease,andwillunquestionablyhealthee,ifthouwilt but accept it thankfully, and apply it prudently; Imean the Spiritpresenteth to thee,when thou art full of anguish and sorrow, that raresalveof thebloodofJesusChrist,which,spreaduponapromise, is theonlyhealingplasterforawoundedconscience.Heacquainteththeewiththeall-sufficiencyofJesusChristtosavesinners;thatheisaSaviourofGod'sownappointing,oneinwhomGodhathgivenunderhishandthatheiswellpleased;aRedeemerthathathinhiminfinitemeritoriousness,becauseheistheonlybegottenoftheFather.Hesheweththeelongbillsof others' debtswhich have been cancelled by the blood of Christ, andassureththeethatheisnotonlyable,buttrulywilling,tosavethee;thathewaswoundedforthytransgressions,andbruisedforthineiniquities,andbyhisstripesthoumayestbehealed.TheHolyGhostpossiblysetteththe King of saints before thee in all his robes, and riches, andrighteousness, as itwere, thus bespeaking thee: Comepoor sinner thatliestwelteringinthyblood,hearkentome,andthoushaltseewhatIcan,andwilldoforthee;thoughbythywilfulbreachofthelawthouartliabletosuchendless,boundless furyasthoucouldstneitherabidenoravoid,yet I will be a screen between thee and the unquenchable fire. I willsatisfythelaw,andpacifymyFather;IwillnotonlydelivertheefromsinandSatan,wrath, anddeath, anddamnation, but adopt thee for a son,interest thee in that inestimable treasure, the covenant of grace, andmake theeanheirof theeternalweightofglory;andall this thoushalthavefreelyandsurely,ifthouwiltbutacceptmethankfullyandheartilyfor thySaviourandLord; at thehearingofwhich loving language thouprobably art amazed, and ready to say, as Mephibosheth, when Davidtold him that he should eat bread at his table continually, 'What is thyservant, that thou shouldst look upon such a dead dog as I am?' Thouadmirest the freeness of hismercy, and thehappiness of hismembers;thy soul begins to be exceedingly in love with him, and affectionatelylonging after him; Oh, thinkest thou, had I but Christ for my portion,thoughIwereneversopoorintemporals,Icouldbeheartilycontented!Now,Christian,thekingdomofGodiscomenighuntothee;thouartnowupon thyquickening, be but careful here and thou artmade for ever. IknowthatthybrokenheartiswillingtogotoJesusChrist,buthaveacarethat thou carry nothing to him, that thou keep nothing from him; thymiscarriage in either of these may quite break off the bargain betwixt

Christandthysoul,asnearasitisdriven.

I say, carrynothing toChrist.Thynext stepmustbequite out of thineown doors. The devil knoweth how to slay thee as well by thyrighteousness, thy mournful contrition for sin, as by thineunrighteousness, thy wilful commission of sin; which made Augustinesay,thatrepentancedamnethmorethansin;nay,thytrustinguponthyprayers,ortears,oranygoodinthee,dothalterthenatureofthem,andturnthemintosin.Inthismanystick; theyarehardlybroughtoff fromtheirownbottoms.Whenmen'shousesareonfire,theircovetousnesstosavetheirgoodshathoftenlostthemtheirlives;whenmen'ssoulsareinaflame,theirpridetocarryoutwiththemtheirgoodprayers,andgooddesires, and good resolutions, hath lost them eternal life: theywill paysomeof theirbrass farthings towards the reckoning, andGod thereforemakesthempaythewholeshot.

OhhowunwillingisthecreaturetobebeholdentoChrist,hissurety,forthepaymentofallhisdebts!Thoughhebeamerebankrupt,yethehopeshe may compound with his creditor, and pay something towards hissatisfaction; and this ariseth partly from his ignorance of thatrighteousness which alone can satisfy the law, or pacify the Lord: 'FortheybeingignorantofGod'srighteousness,andgoingabouttoestablishtheir own righteousness,' Rom. 10:3. They were ignorant, first, howperfect that righteousnessmust be for which God will justify a sinner;and if there be the least spot in it, his pure eyes cannot accept it.Secondly,Theywereignoranthowcompletethatrighteousnessiswhichthe law requireth; how the law reacheth to the inward as well as theoutward man; how it damneth for the smallest idle word, wanderingthought, or complyingmotionof theheartwith sin.Did theybutknowthat the righteousness which pleaseth God for their justification mustanswerthelawinitsfull latitudeandall itsdimensions,theywouldnotoffer their drossy duties, no, nor their golden graces, for current coin,which being weighed in that balance of the sanctuary, must needs befoundinfinitelytoolight.Partlyfromhispride:'Forthey,beingignorantof the righteousness of God, and going about to establish their ownrighteousness, have not submitted themselves to the righteousness ofGod,' Rom. 10:3. Mark, they have not submitted themselves to the

righteousness of God. Proud man esteems it submission, acondescension, to be beholden to Jesus Christ for remission andsalvation; he hath, though a beggar's purse, yet a proud heart, and isloathtotroubleJesusChristsomuch,andtotakeallhismerciesasalmsoutofthebasketoftheRedeemer'smerits.

Reader, now thou art in a storm, if thou lovest thy soul do not run toshelter thyself under the rotten house of thy own righteousness, for beconfidentitwillfallaboutthineears,andthou,likeZimri,willperishinit.The lawofmandeniethallowancefromtheparishtothemthathaveanything of their own to subsist by; and the gospel of God deniethallowancefromtherighteousnessofChristtoallthemthathaveoftheirownfortheirmaintenance.

Donot think to piece thy rags upwithChrist's robes, for itwill not beallowed; go to Jesus Christ stark naked for his glorious raiment,altogetherpoorforhispreciousriches;thereisanecessityofbeingfoundwhollyinhim,orwhollyoutofhim;thereisnomedium.Theharewhich,being pursued, trusteth to her own legs, is torn in pieces by the dogs;when theconey, that runneth to theholesof the rock, is safe.Themanthat,pursuedbythelaw,leanethonhisownsanctity,losethhisownsoul,whenhethatfleethtothewoundsofacrucifiedChristissuretobesaved.'Behold,saithGod,IlayinZionforafoundationastone,atriedstone,apreciouscorner-stone,asurefoundation:hethatbelievethonhimshallnotbeconfounded,'Isa.28:16;1Pet.2:6.

AsIwouldhavetheecarefulthatthoucarrynothingtoChrist,soalsothatthoukeepnothing fromChrist.When IsraelwentoutofEgypt to serveGod,therewasnotahooftobeleftbehind.Theremustbenoreservation,no exception, but an absolute hearty dedication of thyself, and all thouhast,untoJesusChrist;ifthouhalvestorhaltestnow,thouartanundoneman. As Samuel asked Jesse, Are all thy sons here? and denied to sitdownandfeastwithhimtillallwerepresent;sotrulyChristwilldenytoclosewiththysoul,tositdownandsupwiththee,unlessallthouhastbepresent,andunfeignedlydevotedtohisservice.

ButinaspecialmannerbecarefulthatnosinbekeptfromthestrokeofChrist.AswhenPaulcametoEphesusthewholecitywasinanuproar,so

now the Lord Jesus is coming into thine heart, there will be old stiramong thy corruptions; how strongly will they plead, if not for theirformeropenallowance,yetatleastforasecretinwardconnivance!LittledostthouthinkhowbusySatanwillbeforawritofpartition,thatsincehecannotprevailforallthyheart,thatyethemaybeadmittedanequalsharerwithChrist:hewilltellthee,butrememberthathewasaliarfromthebeginning, that thoumayestkeep thysinsand thySaviour too; thatChrist is not so strict, but that for a fair agreement he will allowsomewhattotheflesh.ButIbeseechtheenottothinkofanyleaguewiththe least of thy lusts. Surely if thou seest any loveliness inChrist, thoucanstnotbutjudgeeverysinloathsome;besides,hewereapoorSaviourif he could not make thee amends for thy parting with the mostpleasurable or profitable sin. Who would think that thou, like David,shouldstpleadforAbsalom,forsin,whenitseekstobereavetheeofthycrown and life? Truly shouldst thou gratify Satan so far as to hide anywedgeofgoldorBabylonishgarment,anyonelust,Imusttelltheethatone, be it never so small, would, like a little boy put in at a casement,openthedoorofthineheartformanythievishlusts,andgreatonestoo,toenter in. If thouallow theold serpentbut room forhishead,hewillquicklywindinhiswholebody.SirFrancisDrake,beinginadangerousstormupontheThames,washeardtosay,MustI,whohaveescapedtherage of the ocean, be drowned in a ditch? Surely thou mayest so farcomplywithChrist as to take thy leaveof scandalous enormities; yet ifthou reservest favourable thoughts towards any secret iniquity, thoudestroyestthyself.Anditwillbeallonewhetherthouartslainbyasmallpistolorbyagreatcannon.

Corruptionmayclosewithreligionagreatway,saithadivine,andheargladlyanddomanythings;butthereisaparticularpointofstrictnessinevery unregenerate man's case, which, when it is set on close to him,causethhimtobeoffendedandstumble,asintheyoungmanandHerod.This is thedifferencebetweenhypocritical and sincere conversion: thatgoeth far, and parts with much, and proceeds to almost; but when itcomes to the turning-point, and ultimate act of regeneration, he thenplays the part of an unwise son, and stays in the place of the breakingforth of children, as a foolish merchant, that in a rich bargain of athousandpoundbreaksoffuponadifferenceoftwentyshillings;butthe

otheriscontenttopartwithall,andtosufferthelossofall, tocarryonthe treaty to a full and final conclusion, to have all the armour of thestrongmantakenfromhim,thatChristmaydividethespoils.

Reader, thouknowestuponwhat terms thoumayest contract abargainwithChrist for the savingof thy soul; that thoumustnot think tohavehim for thy Saviour, unless thou wilt accept him for thy Lord also. AsBoaz told his kinsman, that if he would enjoy the inheritance ofAbimelech,hemusthaveRuth theMoabitess tobehiswife; sosay I tothee, if thouwilthave the inheritance, theportionofJesusChrist, thoumusthavehispersonforthyhusband,andresignthyself toberuledbyhisprecepts.TheJewsthatstayedthemselvesupontheGodofIsrael,andyetcontinuedrebellious,weremoreboldthanwelcome,Isa.48:1,2.Nowthouartcomethusfar,donotgoback,andtosaveapin,loseakingdom.Thou mayest be confident, that nothing can ever be enjoined thee byChrist but what is reasonable and honourable, tending to thy real andeternalgood,aswellashisownglory;thereforenowthemasteriscomeandcallethforthee,dothouanswer,'Lo,Icometodothywill,OmyGod;thylawisinthemidstofmyheart.'

Friend,iftheSpiritofGodhathbeensofavourabletothee,astokindlesuchmotionsasIhavementionedwithinthee,fortheLord'ssakecherishthem, obey them, lest thy quenching the Spirit bring thee to that firewhichcanneverbequenched.'To-dayifthouwilthearhisvoice,hardennotthineheart,lestheswearinhiswraththatthoushaltneverenterintohisrest.'

Thethirdhelptoregeneration

A serious constant use of all the means of grace which God hathappointed for the renewing of souls, with an expectation of a blessingfromGod.

Thirdly, If thouwouldst be regenerated, be serious and constant in theuseofallthemeansofgracewhichGodhathappointedforthebegettingsoulsuntoChrist,withlookinguntoGodforablessing.

Reader,observefiveparticularsinthisthirdhelptoregeneration.

First,Useandattendonthemeansofgrace.TheordinancesofGodarethemartsandfairswhereatChristiansmusttradeforgrace.Atthemthoumayestbuyspiritualcommoditieswithoutmoney,andwithoutprice.Theever blessed God hath upon a twofold account enjoined the use of hisordinances: partly out of sovereignty over us, that we might therebyacknowledgethathomageandfealtywhichweowetohismajesty;partlyoutofmercytous,thatwemightthereinreceiveofhisSpiritandgrace.Byourattendanceonordinances,asbyapepper-corn,forallthatwecandoisverylittle,weacknowledgeofwhomwehold,andtowhomwearebound;andalsotheyarethedooratwhichGodgivethhisgraciousdoles.ThemannaoftheSpiritdothusuallyfalldowninthedewsofordinances.ThouhastGod'scommandforthywarrant,Mat.7:7,8;Isa.55:1–5;andhispromiseforthymotive,'InallplaceswhereIrecordmyname,thereIwill come, andwill bless thee,' Exod. 20:24.And if thouwouldst knowwhat blessing, what alms, God giveth at those places, 'There the Lordcommandethhisblessing,even life forevermore,'Ps. 133:3.Godgivethnotsuchblessingsanywhereasthere;therearethemerciesofthethrone—pardon, love, peace, conversion, increase of grace, joy in the HolyGhost,thekidneysofthewheat,thefinestoftheflour,andthehoneyoutoftherockofmercy.ItissaidofConstantine,thatheimpoverishedallhisempire to enrich Constantinople. God doth pass by other parts of theworldaswasteground,orasawilderness,buttheplacewhereherecordshisname, ishisgarden; thathewilldung,anddig,anddress,and takecarethat itbringforthgoodfruit; therehecommandshisblessing.It isanallusionpossiblytogreatpersons,toageneral,oranemperor:'Wheretheword of a king is, there is power.' The centurion said, 'I say to onesoldier,Go,andhegoeth; toanother,Come,andhecometh; toa third,Do this, and he doeth it.' So God commandeth one ordinance, Go andbuildupsuchasaint,anditgoeth;hesaithtoanotherordinance,Comeand call home such a sinner, and it doeth it; God's word andwork gotogether.Men cannot enable others, or give thempower to obey them;theymaybidalamemanwalk,orablindmansee,buttheycannotenablethem towalkor see.Godwithhiswordgiveth strength todo the thingcommanded;as intheold,so inthenewcreation, 'Hespakeand itwasdone; he commanded, and it stood fast,' Ps. 33:9. But there the Lordcommands his blessing, even life for evermore; the stream ofregeneration, or a spiritual life, which shall never cease, but still go

forwardandincrease,tillitswellto,andbeswallowedupin,theoceanofeternallife,evenlifeforevermore.

Thou hearest, reader, where thy wantsmay be supplied, through whatpipesthewateroflifeisconveyed;dothou,liketheimpotentman,waitatthe porch of Solomon's temple, begging and expecting some alms;Godmaydomoreforthee(asforhim,Acts3:2,8)thanthoudostaskorthink.

ItwasaseasyforBoaz(anditmighthavebeendonewithaslittlecharge)tohavegivenRuthasmuchcornatfirstaswouldhaveyieldedanephahofbarley,andsohavesentherawaywithoutanymoreado;buthewillhave her glean it, and then break it. So God could infuse graceimmediately; but he will have men hear, read, and pray, attend onordinances, though not as masters, yet as means of grace. He givethearthlyrichestothemthatarediligentintheirparticularcallings;sohegiveth heavenly riches to them that are diligent about their generalcalling.

Secondly, Observe in this third help a serious constant use of all themeansof grace appointed for this end.David inmeditation findeth theSpiritkindlingthatfirewhichatlastbrokeoutintoaholyflame:Ps.39:3,'WhileIwasmusing,thefireburned.'

ThetwodisciplesatgodlyconferencefoundJesusChristtomakeathird;whiletheywerediscoursingofhim,hepresentshimselftothem,causingtheir hearts to burnwithin them, and openeth their eyes to knowhim.Deadcoalsarekindledbyliveones.Ohitisgoodfortheetobeamongthesaints! Thomas, bymissing onemeeting, did his soul unspeakable dis-service.

Cornelius,atprayerinhishouse,hadamessengerfromheaven,directinghimwhithertosendforonetoinstructhiminthewayofsalvation,Acts10. initio. Prayer hath been a prevalent orator at the throne of grace;manythathavegonethitherwithprayersandpetitions,havecomeawaywithpraisesandthanksgivings.

Jacobaddedtearstohisprayers,andasaprinceprevailedwithGod:'Heweptandmadesupplication,andprevailed,'Hosea. 12:4.Music sounds

bestuponthewaters;suchwaterofasinner,mingledwiththebloodofaSaviour, hath melted the very heart of God: 'A broken and a contriteheart,OGod,thouwiltnotdespise,'Ps.51:17.

WhenDanielwasfastinghisbody,anangelissenttofeasthissoul,Dan.9:21. While some have been casting themselves down, God hath beenraisingthemup.Papistsontheirfastingdaysdenythemselvesflesh,buthave dainty fare, costly sweetmeats. Thou mayest, reader, if thouhumblestthyselfunderthemightyhandofGod,expectthatheshouldinhisowntimelifttheeup:thesedutieshavehelpedtoincrease,andalsotobegetholiness.

TheeunuchwasreadingtheScripture,whenPhilipwascommanded,bycommission from theHolyGhost, to joinhimself tohis chariot, and toinstruct him in the knowledge of Christ, Acts 8:33. Junius, by readingJohn 1, Augustine by reading Rom. 13, were converted. The threethousand, Acts 3, by hearing, came to love; and trulymany thousandshave found the gospel of Christ preached to become the power of Godunto salvation. Cyprian confesseth that hewas converted from idolatryand necromancy by hearing the history of the prophet Jonah read andexpoundedbyCecilius,whomthereforehecalleth the fatherofhisnewlife.Faithandrepentancearebothwroughtbyhearing,Rom.10:14;Acts3:15.ThewanderingsinnerismostfrequentlyreducedbytheScripture,eitherreadorheard;Godcallstohimwhenheisrunningaway,saying,'Return, return, O Shulamite; return, return.' In all God's great worksthereisordinarilyawordaccompanyingit:asinthecreation,'Godsaid,Let there be light;' when Christ raised Lazarus, 'Lazarus come forth;'when he converted Paul, 'Saul, Saul, why persecutest thoume?' at thegreatday,'Ariseyedead,andcometojudgment.'Thedevilgotinatfirstinto man's heart by his ear. The dragon bites the elephant's ear, andthencesuckshisblood,knowingthattobetheonlyplacewhichhecannotreachwithhistrunktodefend.TheSpiritofGodcomesinwiththeword,2Cor.3:8;Rom.1:12;Gal.3:2.

AsthatwordofGodtoAbraham,'Sarahthywifeshallhaveason,'Gen.18:19;thatword,Isay,gavebirthandbeingtoIsaac,whentherewasnolikelihoodorpossibilityofhisbeingfromhisparents;sothewordofGodgives a spiritual birth and being tomen andwomen, when there is no

likelihood or possibility in nature, yea, when their natures are in flatoppositionandcontrarietytoit.

Theworddiscoverethourdiseases,Rom.7:7;James2:9:makesus feelour sickness,Rom. 7:9; applieth themedicine for our cure,Mat. 11:28;Isa.55:1;Rom.10:14.

Thewordkillethsin,castethdownSatan,enliveneththesoul;Eph.6:15;Jer.23:29;Rev.12:11;John5:24,and17:17;Isa.11:6–9;Rom.1:16;1Cor.1:18;James1:18.

Thus thou seest that the physician of souls hath severalmeans for thecureofthymalady;donotthouneglectany,neitherreadingnorhearing,neither fasting nor praying, neither meditation nor godly conference,neithersecret,norprivate,norpublicduties,forthouknowestnotwhichmaydo thedeed.Christmaywaitat thatverydoorwhich thoukeepestshut,atthatordinancewhichthouomittesttoenterintothysoul.Ifthoudesirestthatheshouldmeettheeinanyduty,dothoumeethimineveryduty.Howfoolishart thoutotakeanyonehorseoutof theteam,whentheloadissoweighty,eventhineendlesswelfare,andalllittleenough,todrawthineuntowardhearttowardsheaven.Thehusbandmanthathathapieceof groundwhich lieth at the endofhis fallow, still balkedbefore,willbesuretoploughup,andexpectethabettercropoutofthatthanoutof any suchquantityof ground in the field.Reader, if thouhastbalkedanyoftheforementionedduties,forthysoul'ssakesetuponitspeedily,for undoubtedly thou mayest reap a greater harvest by it than thouimaginest.

Friend, have a care of secret, private, public duties; for all must beminded by them that would be new-moulded. How many thousandsamong us do wilfullymurder their souls! Some poison them by cryingenormities,othersstarvethembytheomissionofduties.Itwasapitifulequivocation of the Duke d'Alva, before Haarlem, that promised thesoldierstheirlives,andafterwardskilledthemwithhunger,saying,thatthough he promised them their lives, yet he did not promise that theyshould have food. Art not thou a cheater andmurderer of thy soul, inpromisingitspirituallife,whenthoudeniestitthemeansoflife?Aseverthou wouldst have a harvest of grace, do thou plough up and sow the

ground of thine heartwith all themeanswhichGod hath ordained forthatend.

Thirdly,BethouseriousinthineattendanceontheordinancesofGod.Bein earnest when thou art about soul affairs; consider, when thou artpraying,orhearing,orreading,orconferringwithChristians,itisforthylife,itisforthysoul,itisforeternity;anddowhatsoevertheLordcalleththeetodo,forthequickeningthydyingsoul,withallthineheart,withallthymight,forthereisnodoingitinthegravewhitherthouarthastening.WhenSamsonwoulddestroytheenemiesofGod,hebowedhimselfwithallhismight,Judges16:30;whenDavidwaswaitinguponthearkofGod,hedancedbeforetheLordwithallhismight,2Sam.6:14;sowhenthouhearest for thedeathof thysins, thoushouldsthearwithall thymight,Ezek.40:4.Whenthouprayestforthelifeofthysoul,thoushouldstpraywithallthymight,1Thes.5:17;ah,howshouldtheyhear,andread,andprayforregeneration,thathavebutafewdays,nay,hourspossibly,todoitin,betweenwhomandeternalburningsthereisbutalittleairybreath,andif theybenotregeneratedbeforetheydie,theyareruined,theyaredamnedforever!

Achildmayhandlethemother'sbreast,andplaywithit,andkissit,butallthiswhilehegetsnogood,tillatlasthelayethhismouthtothebreast,gets the nipple fast, sucks with his might and strength, and then hedraweth nourishment. Reader, it may be thou hastminded duties andfrequentedordinances,yetpossiblyhastgotnogoodbythem;itislikelythenthatthoudostbutplaywiththem,dallyaboutthem,doingthemasifthou didst them not; if ever therefore thou wouldst get good by them,thoumust be serious and in earnest about them, do themwith all thysoul,withall thy strength,knowing that theyareof infiniteweightandendless concernment to thee, considering that if God do not now hearthee,inthydayofgrace,hewillnever,neverhearthee;andifthoudonotnowhearhim,thoushaltshortlynever,nevermorehavesuchanoffer.

Idoubtnot,friend,butthouartseriousabouttoysandtrifles;thoucanstriseearly,andgotobedlate,andworkhardallday,andhavethymindsteadfastlyoccupiedabout those foolish thingsof theworld fromwhichwithinashorttimethoushaltbepartedforever.Howbusyarevainmen,likeacompanyofants,toincreasetheirheapofearth!Ohthinkofit,isit

notpitysuchaplantshouldgrowinEgypt,whichwouldthrivesowellinCanaan?Howfitly,howfinelywouldthatseriousnessandfervencywhichthou usest about earth become and suit with heaven! Ah, it would beworththewhiletobemostcovetousandsedulousaboutthethingsofGodandChrist,thysoulandeternity.

Fourthly, Be constant in the use of themeans of grace; pray andwait,hear andwait, read andwait,watch andwait: 'In themorning sow thyseed, in the evening withhold not thine hand; for thou knowest notwhethershallprosper,eitherthis,orthat,orwhethertheybothshallbealike good,' Eccles. 11:6. In every morning sow thy seed, pray, read,meditate;intheeveningwithholdnotthinehand,dothesame;forthouknowestnotwhichshallprosper,atwhichtheSpiritofGodwillgivetheeagraciouseffectualmeeting for thyconversionor salvation,orwhetherbothshallconduceequallytothyspiritualandeternaladvantage.Donotexpect, like the Hyperboreans, to sow and reap in a day; allow somedistance between seed-time and harvest. Physic doth not workimmediatelywhenitistakenintothebody;beconfidentthoushaltreapintime,ifthoudostnotfaint.

Supposethouwertsickofsomemortalpainfuldisease,adeadmaninthyownandothers'thoughts,andanablefaithfulphysicianshouldwarrantthycureintime,uponconditionthatthouwouldstfollowhisadvice,anddietthyselfallthewhile,wouldstthounotuseallthatheprescribed,andwait,andlongtoberecovered!Thouwastwoundedinamoment,butartnotsosoonrecovered;itisgoodtowaitGod'sleisure.WhatChristsaidinregardofhiscominginjudgment,Isayinregardofhiscominginmercy,Watch therefore, for thouknowestnotwhen theSonofmanwill come,whether this day, to-morrow, or next week; lose no time, neglect noopportunity.TheheathenTituscouldbewailthelossofthatdaywhereinhehaddonenogood:Friends, I have lost aday; andwilt thouwilfullylose half a day, when every moment is of more worth to thee than akingdom? Naaman the Syrian washed seven times in Jordan; the sixtimeswashingcouldnotdoit,itwasupontheseventhtimewashingthathewascuredofhis leprosy,andhis fleshcameagain like the fleshofachild.Dothouoftenbathethysoulinthewatersofthesanctuary;atonetimeorother, if thou faithfullypractisest thishelp, thouwilt find them

healing waters. Observe what Saul lost by not waiting God's leisure;SamuelhadtoldSaul,1Sam.10:8,'AndthoushaltgodownbeforemetoGilgal,…sevendaysshalt thou tarry, till Icometo thee,andshewtheewhat thou shalt do.' This precept was enjoined Saul, I suppose, notbecauseSamuelmightbehinderedbysomenecessaryoccasionstillsevendays were come, which reason some give, but for the trial of Saul'sobedience toGod inwaitinghisappointed time.NowSaul, 1Sam. 13:8and13,waitedsixdays,nay,towardsthelatterendoftheseventhdayforSamuel;butbecausehewaitednot fullsevendayshe lost thekingdom:'Thouhastdone foolishly; thouhastnot kept the commandmentof theLord thy God,' saith Samuel to Saul; 'for now would the Lord haveestablished thy kingdom for ever; but now thy kingdom shall notcontinue,fortheLordhathsoughthimamanafterhisownheart.'

Ohhow sadwas it that Saul should lose a kingdom forwant of two orthree hours' patience! had he tarried a little longer, he had had thekingdom for ever; but is it not sadder if thou shouldst lose the eternalkingdomofheavenbynottarryingGod'stime,bynotwaitinghisleisure!

Reader, lieat thepool,andgivenotover till theangeldothmoveuponthewaters.Whenoneofthefathershaditsuggestedtohimbythedevil,that it was in vain for him to mind God, for he should never get toheaven; then, saithhe, Iwill followhardafterGod, that Imayenjoyasmuchofhimasispossibleonearth.WhenblindBartimeuswasrebukedbythedisciples forcallingafterChrist forhisbodilysight,hecrieththemore earnestly, 'Jesus, thou Son of David, have mercy on me,' Mark10:15.WhateverdiscouragementsthoumeetestwithinthineattendanceonGodinordinances,beliketheEnglishjetfiredbywater,andnotlikeour ordinary fires, quenched by it; let them add to, not diminish, thyresolutionandcourage;letnotonerepulsebeattheeoff;beviolent,giveasecond storm to the kingdom of heaven. Parents sometimes hidethemselvestomaketheirchildrencontinueseeking.Hethatwouldnotatfirstopenhismouth,norvouchsafethewomanofCanaanaword,doth,uponhercontinuedandferventpetitions,atlastopenhishandandgiveherwhateversheask:'Owoman,beituntotheeasthouwilt.'Continuedimportunityisundeniableoratory.

Andtruly,ifafterallthypainsthoufindestJesusChrist,willitnotmake

amendsforthylongpatience?Menthatventureoftenatalottery,thoughtheytakeblankstwentytimes,ifafterwardstheygetagoldenbasonandewer it will make them abundant satisfaction. Suppose thou shouldstcontinueknockingtwenty,nay,fortyyears,yetifatlast,thoughbutonehourbeforethoudiest,thyheartbeopenedtoChrist,andhebereceivedintothysoul,andwhenthoudiestheavenbeopenedtothee,andthysoulreceived into it;will it not infinitely requite thee for all thy labour!Ohthinkofit,andresolvenevertobedumbwhileGodisdeaf,nevertoleaveoffprayer tillGodreturnagraciousanswer.And for thycomfortknow,thathewhobeganhispsalmwith,'Howlongwiltthouforgetme,OLord?forever?howlongwiltthouhidethyfacefromme?'comestoconcludeitwith,'IwillsinguntotheLord,forhehathdealtbountifullywithme,'Ps.13:1,6.

Fifthly,BeseriousandconstantintheuseofallthemeansofgracewhichGod hath appointed for the renewing of souls, but expect the blessingonlyfromGod.Elijah,whenhehadfilledthetrencheswithwater,putthewoodinorder,laidthesacrificeonthealtar,thenhelooksuptoheavenfor a blessing, and then fire came down from heaven, whereby Godmanifestethhisacceptance,1Kings18:36.Sodothouhearasforheaven,sigh as for thy soul, perform every duty as for eternity, attend onordinanceswithsuchseriousnessasonethatbelievethhisunchangeableestateisatstakeinthem;butwhenthouartdoingthem,andwhenthouhast set all inorder, then let thineheart lookup toheaven for success,expect the fire of the Holy Ghost to come down from heaven. Be asdiligentaboutdutiesandordinancesasiftheycouldregeneratethee,anddoallthings,butdependonGod,asonethatknoweththatwithouthimtheycandonothing.'Offerthesacrificeofrighteousness,andtrustintheLord.' 'Trust in the Lord, and do good,' Ps. 4:5, and 37:3. Look onordinancesonlyas,forindeedtheyarenomorethan,theorderinwhich,andtheinstrumentwithwhich,heispleasedtowork.Trust inGodwillnotconsisteitherwiththeneglectof,orwithtrustin,means.

Bethoubutfaithfulinfollowingthesedirections,anddoubtnotofGod'sbenediction;expectthathewhocommandeththeetoseek,shouldenabletheetofind.Donotasunwisearchers,thatshoottheirarrowsatrandom,neverlookingtoseethemagain;butasJonathan,who,whenhehadshot

hisarrows,hadonereadytofetchthemagain.Expecttoreapthefruitofthosedutieswhichthousowest.GotoGod'shouseinthemultitudeofhismercies,Ps.5:7,lookingthatmercyshouldgivetheeameeting,andgranttheeablessing.'Iwilldirectmyprayertothee,andwilllookup,'Ps.5:3,thatis,Iwilltrade,Iwillsendoutmyspiritualcommodities,andexpectagainful return; Iwillmakemy prayers, and not give them for lost, butlookupforananswer.Godwillbringmanhomebyawaycontrarytothatby which he wandered from him. Man fell from God by distrust, byhaving God in suspicion; God will bring him back by trust, by havinggoodthoughtsofhim.Oh,howrichlyladenmightthevesselwhichthousendestoutcomehomewouldstthoubutlongandlookforitsreturn!

I come now to remove some hindrances, or answer some objectionswhichariseinmen'sheartsagainstthetruthsdelivered.

CHAPTERXVIII

Ananswertothreeobjections

The first objection answered—namely,Man's weakness and inability toturnuntoGod.

Secondly,Thatunregeneratemensininperformingduties,andattendingonordinances.

Thirdly and lastly, If I be elected I shall be saved, letme live never sowickedly,andneglectthemeansprescribedformyrecovery.

Obj. 1. Thou mayest probably object against this exhortation to mindregeneration,thatthouhastnopowertoleaveandloathesin,tobelievein, and submit to, Jesus Christ. Therefore, why do I call upon thee soearnestly? towhatpurposedo Ibid theemake theeanewheart, andanewspirit,turnuntoGod,andembracehisonlySonasthyLord?

Tothis,andtheothersubsequentobjectionsconcerningelection,andthy

sinfulness in performing duties, I might answer only with the apostle,'Who art thou that repliest against God?' Rom. 9:20; or with Eliphaz,'ShallmortalmanbemorejustthanGod?shallamanbemorepurethanhisMaker?'Job4:17.ButIwillanswerwithElihu,'Suffermealittle,andI will shew thee what I have to speak on God's behalf. I will fetchmyknowledge from afar, and will ascribe righteousness tomyMaker. Fortrulymywordsshallnotbefalse;hethatisperfectinknowledgeiswithme,'Job36:2–4.

First, I confess that thouartunable either to loathe sinor loveGodbythineownstrength.Thepreceptsofthewordspeakman'sduty,butGod'spower;theyteachusnotwhatwecando,butwhatweshoulddo.Becauseamanoughttopayhisdebts,thereforeitdothnotfollowthatheisabletopaythem.Divinecommandsaretoconvincemenoftheirweakness,notto shew their strength. I acknowledge that by nature thou art dead intrespassesandsins,andcanstneithersee,norhear,norsavourspiritualthings,Eph.2:1.Thouartwithoutstrength,Rom.5:6,notabletothinkagoodthought,2Cor.3:5,nortospeakagoodword,Mat.12:34;nay,thoucanst do nothing that is acceptable to God, John 15:3, or profitable tothyself.

NonecanbeaforehandwithGod.Wecannotseekhimtillwehavefoundhim;hewillbesoughtthathemaybefound,andfoundthathemaybesought,saithBernard.

Secondly,Ianswer,thatthecauseofman'sweaknessisfromhimself,thefaultisnotinGod:'Godmademanupright,buthehathfoundoutmanyinventions,' Eccles. 7:29. What was there wanting on God's part? Hecreatedmanafterhisownimage,inknowledge,righteousness,andtrueholiness;hegiveshima lawtodirecthim,athreateningtowarnhim,apromisetoencouragehim,abilityandpowertocarryhimselfuprightly.ManhearkenethtoSatan,distrustethGod,despiseththelaw,triethnewinventions,wherebyheundoethhimself.IsGodtobeblamed?Surelyno.'The foolishness ofman perverteth hisway, and then his heart frettethagainsttheLord,'Prov.19:3.

Ifthouurgesttheobjectionfurther,thatonemansinned,andthewholegenerationofmensuffer,thatthyweaknessproceedethnotfromthyfall,

butAdam's;Ianswer,thatachildmayaswellcomplainthathisprinceisunjust,becauseheisbornthesonofabeggar,oratraitor;indeeditisanunhappinesstotheethatthouartsodescended,butnotunrighteousnessinGod.IfGodgavethyfatheranearthlyestateofathousandpoundperannum,andheproveaprodigal,andleavetheenotathousandfarthings,wilt thou blameGod? Is he to be charged for thy father's riotousness?Trulythusitisinspirituals;GodgaveAdamasufficientstock,hewasteditbywilfuldisobeyingthecommandgivenhim,andtherebyleavesallhischildrenpoorandbeggarly; isGodnowinthe least fault?Becausethouhast lost thy power of obeying, should God therefore lose his right ofcommanding?Aservantthatmakeshimselfdrunk,andtherebyunabletodo his master's work, is not therefore disobliged from his service. Aprodigaldebtor, thoughhehathspenthisestate indrinkinganddicing,mayjustlybecalledupon,andsuedforhisdebts.

Butthoumayestsay,thoudidstnotconsenttotrustthystockinAdam'shand.Ireply,Hathnotafatherpowertoobligeandbindhisson?Adamwas the father of all, and did bear without question an extraordinarynatural affection to his children; his own interest was involved withtheirs; he and they lived and died, stood and fell together; he had fullpoweroverhisownwill;Satancouldnotforcehimtosin;hisobedienceforallwasnolesseasythanforhimself.Therewasnothingcommandedhimbutwhatwasequalandjust,andwhathewasthoroughlyenabledtodo. IfAdamhadstood, thouhadst shared inhisgains,whichhadbeenunspeakablygreat;thereforeit isbutrighteousthatthoushouldstshareinhislosses.

Besides, though thou didst notmake any particular choice of Adam tostand or fall for thee, yetGodmade choice of him for thee;who beinggoodness itself, bears more goodwill to thee than thou to thyself; andbeingwisdomitself,madethewisestchoice,andtookthewisestcourse,forthegoodofman.Thiswaymademostforman'ssafetyandquiet.Forif he had stood, all fear of losing our happiness had quite vanished,whereas if everyman had been left to stand or fall for himself, amanwouldeverhavebeeninfearoffalling.Andagain,thiswasthesurestwayto have all our estates preserved; for Adam having the charge of theestatesofallthementhatevershouldbeintheworld,hewasthemore

pressedtolookabouthim,lestheshouldberobbed,andundosomanythousands. Adam was the head of all mankind, and all mankind aremembersofthathead.Now,iftheheadplotandacttreasonagainsttheking,thewholebodyisfoundguilty,andthewholebodymustsuffer.Ifthesethingssatisfynot,Godhathadaycoming,whereinhewilldeclarehisownrighteousproceedingsbeforeangelsandmen,Rom.2:4.

Reader, take heed of darkening counsel by words or thoughts withoutknowledge, for we are sure that the judgment of God is according totruth,Job38:2;Rom.2:2.

Thirdly, I answer, that thine impotency lieth in thine obstinacy. Thoupretendestthatthoucanstnot,butthetruthisthouwiltnot,Luke19:41;John 5:40. Thou art resolvedly evil, and then fliest out against Godhimself,thatthoucanstnotdogood,Eccles.8:11;Jer.44:16.

Thydiseaseisdeadlyanddangerous;thephysicianofsoulsoffereththeehishelp,andheisbothwillingandabletocurethee.Nowthouwilfullythrowest away his physic, feedest on such things which thou canstforbear,andknowestwillincreasethydisease;andthentellesttheworldthatthouartnotabletocurethyself.Isthishonestorrationaldealing?

If anakedmanbeoffered clothing, or aman ready to starve food, andtheythrowitawayfromthem,andflatlydenytoacceptofthem,whoistoblameiftheseperishwithnakednessandhunger?

Thouhadstapoisonouseggfromthyfather;buttheserpentthatstingsthee to death is from thywarming and hatching that egg in thine ownbreast.All themenonearth, andall thedevils inhell, couldnotdamnthee,wereitnotforthywilfulnessinsin;andcanstthouexpectthatJesusChristshouldsavetheeagainstthineownwill?thatheshouldcarrytheetoheavenwhetherthouwiltorno?Believeit,astateofsinandwrathisthe matter of thine own choice. The door which shuts thee out of theFather'shouseisboltedagainsttheebythineownhands.

Answer me this question, or else never more make this objection: ArtthouwillingtoturnfromsinuntoGod?ArtthouwillingtotaketheSonofGod for thy Saviour and Lord? If thou art willing, I am sure God is

willing; he hath confirmed it with an oath, Ezek. 33:11. Jesus Christ iswilling that sinners should live, or hewould not sowillingly have diedsuchadeath;hehathpaid thepriceof thy ransom,andoffereth theeahappierestatethanthatofwhichAdamdeprivedthee.Ifthouartwillingto accept of thy freedom thoumayest have it: 'If anymanwill, let himdrinkofthewateroflifefreely,'Rev.22;andifthouartnotwilling,whydostthoucomplain?

Fourthly,Ianswer,thefaultisclearlyinthyself,becausethouneglectesttodowhatthouhastpowertodo;thouhastpower,withoutanyspecialgrace,toperformduties,toheartheword,toprayinsecretandwiththyfamily, to forbear thy wicked company, by swearing, lying, drinking,scoffingatgodliness,andyetdostnotmindthosedutiesconstantly,norforbearthosesins.Shallaservant,(friend,bethineownjudge,)whichistrustedwithfivepoundstoemployforhismaster'shonour,spendthisinwhoringandgaming,andthenblamehismasterfornottrustinghimwiththousands?Whenmanbrokebyhisfall,therewassomestockleftinhishands,—not enough to set him up again, but that whichmight do himsomegood;nowtheyspendthisprofusely,theythrowawaythosechecksofconsciencewhichescapedtheruinsofthefall;theycorruptthemselvesinwhattheyknow,andwickedlyrefusetodowhattheycan,andyetaresoimpudentastoflyinthefaceoftheeverblessedGod,thathedothnotgivethempowertodomore.

Fifthly, Thy weakness and impotency should drive thee to Christ forstrength; thy misery by the first Adam should cause thee to mind thyrecovery by the secondAdam. Theword ofGod discovered to thee thenecessityofregeneration,thineowninabilitytodoit,thatthoumightestply the throneofgrace, fly toJesusChrist forhelpandsuccour.Amanthatisliftingapieceoftimber,andfindsittooheavyforhim,willcallinhelp; thus the law isa schoolmaster todrive thee toChrist.When thouconsiderestwiththyself,thatthoumustberegeneratedordamnedinhellforever,andthatthouartaltogetherunabletorenewandsanctifythyself,how diligent should itmake thee in attendance on Jesus Christ for hisSpirit and grace! how shouldst thouwait on thyRedeemer, in reading,hearing, praying, meditating, using all those means which he hathappointedfortheconversionofthysoul!

Obj.2.Secondly,Itmaybethouwiltsay,Youpressmemuchtopray,andhear, and frequent themeans of grace; but I sin in doing so,—I sin inpraying,Isininhearingandsinging,andwouldyouhavemesin?

I answer, first, Thou sinnest in eating and drinking, and following thycalling, in not doing these things upon right principles, and for rightends,andwiltthouthereforeforbearthem?Thouwiltpamperandpleasethybody,rightorwrong,notonlyintheuse,butevenintheabuse,ofthecreature;buthowordinaryanexcusewillmaketheeneglectthysoul!

Secondly, Regenerate men themselves sin in all their performances,thoughnot insuchamannerasunregeneratemendo,andshould theythereforelaythemdown?

Thirdly, No pretence whatsoever can excuse from obedience to clearprecepts; rememberalso that thecommandsofGoddonot interfereorcontradicteachother.NowGodexpresslycommandeththee,thoughthouartinanaturalestate,toperformduties.Peter,whenhehadtoldSimonMagusthathewas inthegallofbitterness,andbondof iniquity,yethebidshimpraytotheLord,Acts8:22,ifperadventurethethoughtsofhisheartmightbeforgivenhim.OursinningindutiescannotabrogatethatlawofGodwhichenjoinsduties;asGod'spreceptsarenotmeasuresofour strength, so they are not lessened by ourweakness. TheNinevites,though unregenerate, as some think, yet when threatened withdestruction, did both pray and fast, and found that it was not in vain,Jonah4:3.

Fourthly,Thousinnestlessinperformingdutiesthaninneglectingthem.Ifthouartresolvedtogooninacourseofsinning,anddamningthysoul,Iknownotwhat tosay to thee; theLordpity thee;but if thouhastanydesireofsalvationinagospelway, thouoffendest far less inwaitingonGod in his ordinances, than those do that refuse them. In performingduties without suitable grace thou failest in the manner of divineworship; others that omit duties, fail both in the matter and manner.ThouowestGodoutwardaswellasinwardservice—theconfessionofthymonth,aswellastheconversionofthineheart;surelythen,ifthougivestGodtheformer,thoughwithoutthelatter,thoudostnotsinsomuchastheythatgivehimneither.

Fifthly,Shouldstthouneglectthemeansofgrace,thouwouldstmakethycondition,which is already dreadful, to be desperate. If everGodmeetthee, itmustbe inhisownway,Rom. 10:15, 17;Prov.8. Ibelieve thouscarceeverheardestofanymanconvertedwhilehecastbythemeansofgracewhichGodaffordedhim.

Sixthly,Ifthyconditionbesosadthatthousinnestinallthoudost,thouhastthemoreneedtohastenoutofit.Ah,whowouldbequietonehourinsuchanestatewhereinwhateverhedothisabominabletoGod?Menthatareweakandsicklydonotthereforeforbearfood,becausetheyarenotabletodigestitwell,anditmaypossiblyyieldsomenourishmenttotheir disease, but do therefore eat that they may get strength, and beenabledtoovercometheirdistempers.

Seventhly,Godmaymeetwiththeeinthemeansofgrace.TheordinancesofGodarethegoldenpipesthroughwhichheconveyeththeoilofgracefromChrist, theolive-tree.Goddothnotbid thee towaituponhim fornothing;thousandshavefoundbyhappyexperiencethattheyareblessedwhichwatchatwisdom'sgate,whichwaitatthepostsofherdoors,Prov.8.latterend.TheNinevites,whenJonahhadforetoldtheirruin,fastandpray, saying, 'Who can tell if God will repent and turn from his fierceanger, thatweperishnot?' Jonah3:9.SonowGodhath foretold inhiswordtheeternaldestructionofallinthycondition;dothoufastandpray,readandmeditate;whocantellbutGodmayturnandhavemercyuponthee,pourdownhisSpiritandholiness into thee, that thouperishnot?Thoumayesthear and readof the successof others: othershave foundhiminhishouseofprayer,andwhynotthou?Themarinercannotmakeeitherwindortide,yetheliethreadyuponthewatersandwaitsforthem.The husbandman cannot cause a harvest, yet he ploughs and soweth,hopingthattheheavenswillhelphim.Thoucanstnothealthyself;waittherefore at themeans.Christmay comewhen thou little thinkest of itandcurethee.Goddelightstoblessman'sindustry;hisusualcourseistomeet themthatmeethim:hehathbeenfoundof themthatsoughthimnot,andwillhehidehimself fromtheewhenthouseekesthis face?Forthineencouragementthouhasthisword,whichistruthitself,thatifthouseekhimearlythoushaltfindhim,Prov.8:17.Whilstthereislifethereishope;thoulivestunderthemeans,ohresolvetogiveGodnoresttillhe

givestheeregeneration.

Obj. 3. Thirdly, It is possible thou mayest object, that if thou artpredestinatedtolife,thoushaltbesaved,thoughthouneglectestallthesemeansofsalvation;andifthouartnotelected,thesewilldotheenogood.

I answer, first, That this looks like the language of one already in hell,thoughitbefoundtootooofteninthemouthsofswaggerersuponearth.In evil things the devil would make thee separate the end from themeans;—thinknotofhell,butgooninsin,saithhe;—ingoodthingsthemeansfromtheend;—nevertroublethyselfwithholiness,yetdoubtnotofheaven.

Secondly, Suppose that thou shouldst live and die in this desperateconclusion, wouldst not thou certainly be damned? Without allcontroversy, in theotherworld thouwouldst findwhata fine cheat thedevilhadputupontheebybringingtheeintoanopinionwhichwillbringthee inevitably intodestruction.Believe it, thoushaltknowin theotherworld who shall have the worst of such cursed conclusions, God orthyself.

Thirdly, The decree of God is a sealed book, and the names in it aresecret; therefore thy part is to look to God's revealed will—namely, tomakethineelectionsure,bymakingthyregenerationsure.DostthounotknowthatsecretthingsbelongtoGod,butrevealedthingstousandourchildren?Oh,itisdangeroustomeddlewiththesecretsofprinces!

Fourthly,Thisopinionisnotbelievedbythee,butisonlypretendedasacloakforthywickednessandidleness;forifthoudostbelievethatifGodhath elected, he will save thee, however thou livest; why are not thypractices answerable to such principles? Why dost thou not leave thyground unsowed, and thy calling unfollowed, and say, If God hathdecreedmeacropofcorn,Ishallhaveit,whetherIsowmygroundorno;andifGodhathdecreedmeanestate,Ishallhaveit,thoughInevermindmycalling?Whydost thounotneglectand refuseeating, anddrinking,andsleeping,andsay,IfGodhavedecreedthatIshalllivelonger,Ishalldoit,thoughInevereat,ordrink,orsleep?ForGodhathdecreedthesethings concerning thy ground, estate, and natural life, as well as

concerning thine eternal condition in the otherworld.When I see thatthouthrowestoffallcareandmeansofpreservingthylifeonearth,andexpectestnotwithstanding tocontinuealive, thenImaybelieve that thyforementioned thoughtsare really such in regardof eternal life;but tillthenIshallbeconfidentthatthisconclusionisonlyafeignedpleainthebehalfofthedevilandthycarnalcorruptions.

Fifthly,ThewordofGod,whichmustshortlytrytheeforthineeverlastinglife or death, doth declare to thee fully and clearly that Godpredestinateth to the means as well as the end. Where then wilt thouappear that neglectest themeans? That themeans and end are joinedtogetherinGod'sdecreeisfullyprovedtotheeinthepreviouspartofthisbook; therefore let not Satan so far delude thee as to make thee partthem. I shall conclude my answer to this objection (for truly it is soirrational thatIdonot think itworthyofsix lines)withastorywhichIhave sometime read. Ludovicus, a learned man of Italy, by sinfulbeginnings cameat last to this conclusion, Itmattersnotwhat Ido, orhowIlive;ifIbepredestinatedtolife,Iamsuretobesaved;ifotherwise,Icannothelpit.Thuswiththisdesperateopinionhelivedalongtime,tillatlasthefelldangerouslysick,andsentforaskilfulphysician,earnestlydesiring his advice. The physician, beforehand acquainted with hisopinion, told him, Surely itwill be needless to use anymeans for yourrecovery; for if the timeof yourdeathbe come, itwillbe impossible toavoidit.Ludovicusuponthisbegantoconsiderofhisownmadnessandfolly in neglecting the means for his soul, bemoaned his sin sincerely,tookphysic,andwasthroughtheblessingofGodrecoveredbothinsoulandbody.OhthatwhatIhavewrittenmightworksuchaneffectuponthyspirit!Consider,friend,if,notwithstandingGod'sdecree,meansmustbeusedforthytemporalestate,shouldtheynotalsoforthineeternalestate?'Benotwise in thineowneyes,but fear theLordanddepart fromevil.''Labourtocleansethywaysbytakingheedtheretoaccordingtohisword,'Prov.7;Ps.119:9.

Reader, I have now finished this weighty exhortation, which doth sonearly concern thy precious soul, and unchangeable condition in theotherworld.ThouseesthowlargeanepistleIhavewrittentotheewithmineownhand;manyanhour'ssleephaveI losttoawakentheeoutof

thycarnal security:but Iam ignorantwhether theworkbedoneorno,whichisofsuchunspeakableweight;orwhetherthouartresolvedtosetuponit,throughthestrengthofChrist,ingoodearnest.Ipreachtothee,Iprayforthee,Idesireandendeavoursotoliveastosettheeapattern.Ohthat I knew what to do that might be more effectual for thy recovery.Friend, ponder seriously the truth and concernment of the particularsdelivered. Is there not infinite reason why thou shouldst speedily andheartilysubmit to thecounselof thealmightyGodfor theenliveningofthydyingsoul?Whatmoreweightybusinesshastthoutodothantosetupon these things whereby thoumayest avoid unquenchable burnings,andarriveatfulnessofjoyandpleasuresforevermore?Isthyploughingor sowing, thy buying or selling, nay, thine eating or drinking, half sonecessaryas theregenerationof thysoul,withoutwhich theeverlastingGodhath told theeoverandover that thoushaltnotbesaved?Ohthatthoudidstbelievewhatitistobeinheavenorhellforever,ever,ever!

Ihave readof awoman, thatwhenherhousewason fire shewas verybusy,andwroughthardincarryingouthergoods,butatlastbethoughtherself of her only child, which she neverminded before for eagernessabouthergoods,buthadleftitburningintheflames,andthen,whenitwas too late, she criethand roarethout sadly,Omy child!Ahmypoorchild!Trulythouartindanger,thineeverlastingestateiseverymomentin jeopardy, if thounowbusiest thyselfwholly inscraping,andcarking,andcaringforthybody,forgettingthypoorsoul, leavingthattothefirethatshallnevergoout.Considerthereisatime,Iwouldsayaneternity,coming,when thouwilt think of it, though then itwill be too late; andthen,ohthen,howsadly,howsorrowfully,wilt thousighandsob,howlandroar,andscreechout,Omysoul,ahmypoorsoul,howwretchedlyhaveIforgotmyprecioussoul!Itisaninconceivablemercythatyetthouhastadayofgracewhereinthoumayestthinkofandendeavourthegoodofthysoul.Forthysoul'ssake,fortheLord'ssake,Odearfriend,minditspeedily;hearGodhowhecalleth,orthen,thoughthoucallestloudandlong, hewill never, never hear thee.When themother of Thales urgedhimtomarry,hetoldheritwastoosoon;shestill importuninghim,hetold her afterwards that it was too late. Regeneration is thine espousalunto Jesus Christ. The Father of eternity calleth upon thee, wooeth,beseeching,commandeththee,nowwhileitiscalledto-day,toacceptof

hisownSon for thyLordandhusband;donot,ohdonot say, It is toosoon, I will do it hereafter. I assure thee, before to-morrow night Godmaysayitistoolate,andthenthouartlostforever. 'Hearcounsel,andreceive instruction, that thoumayestbewise inthy latterend, lest thoumournatlast,whenthyfleshandthybodyareconsumed,(whenthysoulis in hell tormented,) and say, How have I hated instruction, and myheartdespisedreproof;andhavenotobeyedthevoiceofmyteachers,norinclinedmineeartothemthatinstructedme!'Prov.19:20,and5:11–13.

CHAPTERXIX

Anexhortationtotheregenerate

First,TogiveGodthegloryofthatgoodworkwhichiswroughtinthem.

Icomenow,inthelastplace,toawordofexhortationtotheregenerate.If without regeneration none can attain salvation, then, O new-borncreature, it highly concerneth thee to be thankful to God, and to befaithfultomen.

First,BethouthankfultoGod.WhatwiltthourendertotheLordforthisgreatinestimablebenefit?Isnotthineheartravishedintheconsiderationof that good-willwhich took suchnotice of thee a poorworm? 'Praise,'saiththepsalmist,'waitethfortheeinSion,'Ps.65:1;andwellitmay,forofSionitmaybesaid,thisandthatmanwasborninher,Ps.87:5,6.Aheathenhad three reasons forwhichheblessedGod.Oneof themwas,that he hadmade him aman, a rational creature. I am sure thou hastmore cause toblessGod thathehathmade theenotonlyaman,but aChristian;notonlyarational,butanewcreature.Theythatarenew-bornin Sion have infinite reason to honour God with the songs of Sion. IfDavid praised God because he was wonderfully made in regard of theframeofhisbody,Ps.139:14,15,whatcausehastthoutopraisehimforthecuriousworkmanshipofgraceinthysoul!Thoucanstnevergivetoogreatthanks,forwhomGodhathwroughtsuchgreatthings.Dothousay,'TheLordhathdonegreat things forme;whereof Iamglad,'Ps. 126:3.Whatjoyisthereatthebirthofagreatheiroraprince!Whatringingof

bells, and discharging of guns, and making of bonfires, when thoseinfants are born to many crosses as well as to crowns, nay, and theirsceptreswitherandcrownsmoulderaway?OhthejoywhichthoumayesthaveinGod,whoartbornachildofGod,anheirofheaven,ofakingdomwhichcanneverbeshaken!Dowickedmenkeepthedayoftheirnaturalbirthwithsomuchpleasureanddelight,whentheywerethereinborninsinandbroughtforthininiquity;whenbyreasonofthosebirthstheyareobnoxious to eternal death? and wilt thou not keep the day of thyspiritual birth with joy, whereby thou art purified from thy naturalpollution,andassuredofentranceintothepurchasedpossession,wherethoushaltbeperfectlypurified?

ItwasthespeechofJonadabtoAmnon, 'Whyartthouleanfromdaytoday, being the king's son?' So say I to thee,Why art thou sad,who artGod'sson?Rejoice,OChristian! thynameiswritten inthebookof life,thysoulhaththeinfallibletokenofspecialandeternallove.ItwasmatterofgreatjoythatChristwasbornatBethlehem.'Behold,Ibringyougoodtidings of great joy. For to you is born this day in the city of David aSaviour,whichisChristtheLord,'Luke2:10,11.ButItellthee,itmaybematter of greater joy to thee that Christ is born in thine heart. FornotwithstandingthebirthofChristinBethlehem,thousandsandmillionsgotohell;butChristwasneverformedinanyone'sheart,butthatmanwenttoheaven.

ItisreportedofAnnello,wholatelymadeaninsurrectionatNaples,thatconsidering how mean he was before, and to what greatness he wasraised,hewassotransportedthathecouldnotsleep.Oh,howshouldstthoubetransportedwiththethoughtsofthatinfinitehappinessofwhichthouartanheir!'ServetheLordwithgladness:comebeforehispresencewithsinging;foritishethathath(new)madeus,andnotweourselves.Enterintohisgateswiththanksgiving,andintohiscourtswithpraise:bethankfuluntohim,andblesshisname,'Ps.100.pertot.

GivethankstoGodinthineheartbyahumbleadmiration,andinthylifebyaholyconversation.

First,GivethanksuntoGodinthineheartbyahumbleadmirationofhisbottomlessmercy.

IfDavid,whenheconsideredthegloriousheavenswhichGodhadmadeforman,criethoutsoaffectionately,'Whatisman,thatthouartmindfulofhim?andthesonofman,thatthoudostthusvisithim?'Ps.8;—surelythou,when thou considerest theworkof graceandholinesswhichGodhathwroughtwithinthee,andtheplaceofgloryandhappinesswhichhehathpreparedforthee,mayestwellfalldownonthyknees,andlookingup to heaven, say,What isman, that thou art somindful of him? andwhatam I, apoor sonofman, that thoudost thusvisitme?Thouhastmademe but a little lower than the angels, and hast crownedmewithgloryandhonour,withgraceandholiness.'WhoamI,OLord?andwhatismyhouse,thatthouhastbroughtmehitherto?Andthiswasyetasmallthing in thy sight, O Lord God; but thou hast spoken of thy servant'shouseforagreatwhiletocome.Andisthisthemannerofmen,OLordGod?'2Sam.7:18,19.

Friend,letfreegracehavethehonourandgloryofallthegoodbestowedonthee,orexpectedbythee.Alas!whomadetheetodifferfromothers?wastnotthouinthesamelumpofclaywiththemthatperish?nowthatthepottershouldmaketheeavesselofhonour, tobesetuponthehighshelf of heaven, as the martyr's phrase is, when others are vessels ofdishonour, and firebrands of hell, hast not thou unspeakable cause towonderathismercyandgood-willtowardsthee?Thatthypersonshouldbejustified,whenothersareundertheguiltofalltheirtransgressions,ismerelyfrommercy,Rom.3:24,and5:18,19.'Thefreegiftcameuponalltojustificationoflife.'Thatthynatureshouldbesanctified,whenothersare left in their filth and pollution, is altogether from his grace andfavour. 'Among whomwe all had our conversation in time past in thelustsofourflesh, fulfillingthedesiresofthefleshandofthemind;andwerebynaturethechildrenofwrath,evenasothers.ButGod,whoisrichinmercy, forhis great lovewherewithhe lovedus, evenwhenweweredeadinsins,hathquickenedustogetherwithChrist:thatintheagestocome hemight shew the exceeding riches of his grace, in his kindnesstowardsusinChristJesus,'Eph.2:1–10.Thatthoushaltbesavedwithagreat and glorious salvation, when others shall be damned with agrievous and endless destruction: that thou shalt enjoy rivers ofpleasures,whenothersmustbetormenteddayandnightwithintolerablepain, is only from God's good pleasure, Titus 3:3, 4. The jewel which

enricheththee isagift,John4:10.Thehandwhichreceiveth it isagift,Phil. 1:29. It is worthy thy observation how full the Spirit of God is inexcludingtheeandeverythingintheefromhavinganyhandinmeritingthineacceptancehere,orinheritancehereafter;notbyworks,Rom.9:11;not of works, Rom. 11:6; not according to works, 2 Tim. 1:9; withoutworks,Rom.4:6.Nowifmercydothallforthee,shouldnotmercyhavethe honour of all from thee? What did God see in thee more than inothers,thathechosetheetoglory?Whatdidheforeseeintheemorethaninothers,thathecalledtheebyhisgrace?Thouwastnotonlyemptyof,butcontrary to,all savinggood;manyamotionof theSpiritdidst thouneglect,manyan invitation fromChristdidst thoureject.How longdidhestrivewiththineuntowardheart,beforeheconqueredit!howmanyatimedidhecallwhenthouwouldstnothear!andknockwhenthouwastso far fromopening, that thoudidstboltandbar thedooragainsthim!How justlymight he have sent thee, aswell as thousands of others, tohell! what mercies didst thou abuse, what means of grace didst thoumisimprove!Yethowdidhewaitupon theebyhisunweariedpatience,woo thee bymany a good providence, and at last win thee to himself,notwithstandingallthyresistance!Itellthee,'Itisnotinhimthatwilleth,norinhimthatrunneth,butinGodthatshewethmercy,'Rom.9:16.Ohthereforeadmiremercy!say inthineheart,Iwasablasphemer,Iwasapersecutor, and injurious, but I obtained mercy, I thank God throughJesus Christmy Lord.Now to theKing immortal, invisible, eternal, behonourandglory;blessedbeGodwhohathbegottenmeagaintoalivelyhopeofan inheritance that fadesnotaway, 1Pet. 1:3.WonderatGod'sdistinguishingmercy: 'Lord, how is it that thou revealest thyself to us,andnot to theworld?' said the disciple, John 14:22. Shouldst not thouthink,Lord,howis itthatI,unworthyI,shouldbechosen,whenothersare rejected? that I should be calledwhen others are neglected, that I,whocameintotheworldwiththesamerageagainstGodandgodliness,and didmany a day runwith others to the same excess of riot, shouldturn about, be in love with holiness, and run the ways of thycommandments,whenmanyothersstillwallowintheirwickedness,andareeveryhourhasteninguntohell?Lord,howisitthatthouhastrevealedthyselftome,andnottotheworld?

Plutarchwondershowthe fig-tree,having thatextremebitterness in its

leaves,branches,andstock,shouldyetbringforthsweetfruit.Hastthounotmorecausetowonder,howthou,soextremelypolluted,beingintheverygallofbitternessbynature,andhavingafountainofpoisoninthee,shouldstevercometobeargoodfruit,andsendforthpleasantstreams;trulythoumayesthavethesamemottowiththeolive,whichgrowethinthecraggycleftswithoutmoistureorrooting,acœlo,fromheaven;thoucouldstneverdoitunlessitweregivetheefromabove;therefore,asthypietycamedownfromheaven,soletthypraisegouptoheaven.ElisabethwonderedthatthemotheroftheLordshouldcomeuntoherhouse;ohdothou stand amazed that the Lord of thatmother should come into thyheart!'GivethanksnightanddaytotheFather,whohathmadetheemeettobepartakeroftheinheritanceofthesaintsinlight,'Col.1:12,13.

Secondly,GivethankstoGodinthylifebyaholyconversation.Asthoushouldstseethydignityandtakecomfortinit,soalsoconsiderthyduty,and take care about it. God hath done singular things for thee; whatsingularthingswiltthoudoforhim?Thelifeofthankfulnessconsistethin the thankfulnessof thy life.Oh thebonds, the infiniteobligationsbywhich thou art tied to thy Saviour! Great things are bestowed on thee,andgreatthingsareexpectedfromthee.Thylifeshouldbeanswerabletothybirthandbreeding;thouartbornofGod,hastblood-royalrunninginthyveins,artbroughtupinthenurtureandadmonitionoftheLord,donotthereforestainthehouseofwhichthoudescendest,nordisgracethefamilyoffaithtowhichthoubelongest.'ShouldsuchamanasIfly?'saidNehemiah:thinkwiththyself,ShouldsuchamanasI,thatamenrolledinthebookoflife,regeneratedbytheSpiritofGod,redeemedfrommyvainconversationwith thepreciousbloodofChrist; should suchamanas IdishonourmyFather,grievemyComforterbyfrothylanguage,unseemlycarriage,orbeingguiltyofanythinginmypracticesthatisunsuitabletomygreatandhonourableprivilege?TheFatherhathchosenme tobeavesselofhonour,shallIdefilemyselfwiththefilthofsin?TheSonhathbought me with a vast sum, shall not I yield myself up wholly to hisservice?TheSpirithathmademyheartitshabitation,andshallIsufferinittheleastunholiness!IcanneverpayGodforhisboundlesslove,butIwillendeavourtopraisehimbyaspotlesslife.

Ofriend,walkworthyofthecallingwherewiththouartcalled,Eph.4:1.

Thereisacomelinesspeculiartothineeffectualcalling.Ifascholarhathanothermannerofcarriagethanascullion,andacourtierthanacarter,surelyaChristianmust leadadifferent life from them that aredead insinsandtrespasses.

Thycallingishigh,Phil.3:14,andthereforethoushouldstwalkabovethemenoftheworld.Menthatarecalledtohighofficeswillcarrythemselvesanswerable to their places; princes do not live like peasants. Thou artcalledtobeasonofGod,acoheirwithChrist,acitizenofSion;thesonofakingmust, likeAbsalom,bewithoutblemishfromtoptotoe: 'Thatyemaybe blameless andharmless, the sons ofGodwithout rebuke,' Phil.2:15.Adoption isa translationoutofone family intoanother,anddothdisoblige thee fromthe lawsofSatanandhis family,andoblige thee totherulesandordersofChristandhishouse, intowhichthouart taken.Thouartcalledtobeaking,Rev.1:5.'Itisnotforkingstodrinkwine,norprincesstrongdrink,'Prov.31, that is, immoderately; suchasin isverybad in a subject, butmuchworse in a sovereign, as a spot in scarlet isworse than in sackcloth. The transgressions of others have muchrebellion and obstinacy in them; but thy sins havemore of unkindnessandtreachery,asbeingagainstthecovenant:thouartcalledtoreignwithChrist inheaven,Ohwalkworthyofhim thathathcalled theeuntohiskingdomandglory,1Thes.2:12.ThouthathasthopestobelikeChristinglory, shouldst labour, as for life, to be like him in grace, 1 John 3:3.Cæsar, when he heard that Brutus conspired against him, would notbelieveit,butsaid,Helooksforthisskin,meaning,heexpectethtobemyheir, to succeed me in the empire, and therefore he will not be sounworthy as to plot againstme.Reader, hathnotChristmore cause toexpect that thy present deportment should be answerable to thy futurepreferment!

Thycallingisholy,2Tim.1:9,andthereforethycarriageshouldbeholy;othercallingsmayputgloryuponaman,butcannotinfusegraceintoaman;othercallingsmaychangethycondition,butthishathchangedthydisposition.Thouartcalledtobeasaint,shouldstthounotthenlivelikeasaint? 1 Cor. 1:2. Alexander would often bid a captain of his name,RememberthatthouartcalledAlexander;thatthecaptain,rememberinghis name, might do nothing unworthy of it. Truly so say I to thee,

Rememberthatthouartcalledtobeasaint,tobeaChristian,anddonotbytheunexemplarinessofthylifecausethatworthynamebywhichthouartcalledtobeblasphemed.

Thycalling isheavenly,Heb.3:1,andtherefore thyconversationshouldbeinheaven;itisfromGod,andthereforemustleadtheetoGod.Ohhowstately is the deportment of worldlings, when they are called to highemployments!How littleshouldall the thingsonearthbe in thineeyeswhoartfixedinheaven!Themistocleswalkingwithonebythesea-side,andseeingaprecious treasureon theearth, said tohis fellow-traveller,Dothoutakeitup,forthouartnotThemistocles.Ifthemenoftheworld,whoseportionsareinthislife,havetheiraffectionssetonthingsbelow,and their conversations on earth, remember that thy treasure is inheaven, and thine heartmust be there also; live as one that belongs toanothercountry.Inaword,study,strive,labour,endeavour,watch,pray,hear, read, meditate, that thou mayest in private, in public, upon alloccasions,inallcompanies,inallmannerofconversation,'shewforththepraisesofhimwhohathcalledtheeoutofdarkness intohismarvellouslight,'1Pet.2:9,10.

CHAPTERXX

Asecondexhortationtotheregenerate,todowhattheycanfortheconversionofothers

Secondly,As thou shouldstbe thankful toGod, so also faithful tomen.Thouartconvertedthyself,dothineutmosttoconvertothers.Theleperscoming into the Syrian camp, and finding food enough to relievethemselves, and many others ready to perish with hunger, they firstfeastedthemselves,andafterwardssayonetoanother, 'Wedonotwell;thisdayisadayofgoodtidings,andweholdourpeace;ifwetarrytillthemorninglight,somemischiefwillbefallus:nowthereforecome,thatwemay go and tell the king's household,' 2Kings 7:9.The timewaswhenthou,likethelepers,wasfamishingthysoulwiththehusksoftheworld;nowGodhathfedtheewiththefatthingsofhishouse,dostthouwelltohold thy peace? Consider them that are pinched with hunger, and call

themtoGod'scourts;tellthemwhatlargeprovisionhemaketh,howthetable is spread, his oxen, his fatlings are killed, all things ready; hewanteth only comers and company. Thou dost well to take hold forthyself;butthoudostillifthouwithholdestfromothers.

Israel was commanded to pity strangers, because they were oncestrangers in the land of Egypt. Shouldst not thou compassionate themthat are strangers from the covenant of promise, aliens from thecommonwealth of Israel, carried captive by the devil at his will,consideringthatthouwastinthathouseofbondage,inasgreatslaverytoSatan,andsubjectiontosin,asothers;anditwasnothingbutgraceandmercy that redeemed thee. 'Put them inmind,' saith the apostle, 'to begentle, shewing all meekness unto all men.' Why, upon whatconsideration? 'For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish,disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts andpleasures; but after thatthekindnessandloveofGodourSaviourtowardsmanappeared,notbyworksofrighteousnesswhichwehavedone,butaccordingtohismercyhe saved us by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of theHolyGhost,'Tit.3:1–5.

Wickedmenarelikethosethataredrowning,theycatchholdonothers,andifitbepossible,makethemsinkwiththemselves;godlymenmustbelikecandles,whichbeinglighted,kindleothers.

Grace iscomparedtooil,whichisofadiffusive,spreadingnature,Mat.25:4;and itdoth, like theoil in thewidow'sbarrel, increasebypouringout;theoilneverceasedrunning,tillsheceasedpouring.Themorethouimprovest thy little stock of grace, themore thymaster will trust theewith.PeterMartyrspeakethofsomemountainsofsaltinCumana,which,whilst they lay common for the good of many, never wasted, thoughmerchants carried away in abundance; but when they were onceengrossedtooneman'suse,theyconsumedaway.HethathathgreatestlayingsoutforGod,shallhavegreatestcomingsinfromGod.Theloavesincreasednotwhilsttheywerewholeinthebasket,butwhilsttheywerebreaking and distributing to others. Women's milk increaseth bydrawing; if the breast be not drawn, it will dry up. He that sowethliberally,shallreapliberally.Believeit,friend,theonlywaytomakethyonepoundtenpounds,isbytradingwithit.Ispeaknotofthyintruding

into theminister'scalling,butofdealing faithfullywith thesoulsof thyfriendsandrelationsinthyplaceandcalling.

Truly one would think that every time thou considerest the dreadfuldanger of poor sinners, thine heart should almost bleed within thee!JesusChristgroanedandweptfordeadLazarus.HowdidDavidmournfordeadAbsalom!Atafuneral,thoughtherebemuchcost,yetthereisnocheer, because one is dead. What bowels of pity shouldst thou havetowards them that are dead spiritually, nay, dying eternally!Dost thounot remember, there was a time when no eye pitied thee, when Godpassedbythee,andsawtheepollutedinthineownblood!yea,whenthouwastinthyblood,hesaiduntothee,live;behold,thattimewasthetimeof love to thy soul. Canst thou now behold others wallowing in theirpollutions,weltering in their soulblood,and thineeyesnotaffect thineheart with pity to them? Especially we that are parents should use allmeansfortheregenerationofourchildrenandrelations:'Wehavealittlesisterthathathnobreasts,whatshallwedoforher?saidtheJews,Cant.8:8.Havenotwe littlechildrenthathavenoChrist,nohope,nograce?Ohwhat shallwedo for them in theday that they shallbe spoken for?WhenSamsonhadfoundhoneyinthecarcaseofthelion,hedidnotonlyeathimself,butcarriedsometohis fatherandmother; thouhast foundhoneyandsweetnessinthecarcaseofthelionofthetribeofJudah,inacrucified Christ, wilt thou not endeavour that thy relations and friendsmaysharewiththee?

Friend, canst thou think, without trembling, on the unnaturalness ofmostfathersandmotherstowardstheirchildren?Alltheircareistogetearthenoughforthem,butnevermindtheinstatingtheminheaven;theostrichleaveshereggsintheearth,andwarmeththeminthedust,wherethe foot crusheth them, and thewild beast breaks them, Job 39:14, 15.Thusworldlymenwarmthefruitoftheirbodiesintheearth,arediligentto leave themdust enough,but considernot that the footofGod's furywill crush them, and the roaring lion devour them, if they be notregenerated.Ohthemanysoulmurderswhichworldlyparentscommit!Butif'thouartbornagain,Iampersuaded,nay,Iamconfident,ofbetterthingsofthee;thoudarestnotbutteachthysonsGod'sways,andlabourthat thy servants may be converted to him. Christianity doth not

diminish, but rectify thy natural affection; it causeth thee to love thyrelations,notless,butbetterthanthoudidstbefore.Gracemakesthyloveto runout towards their souls, and their spiritualandeternalgood.Ohwhatanhonourandprivilegeisit,thatthoumayestbeinstrumentalforthesavingofsouls,James5:2,20,whichthatthoumayestbe,takethesethreewordsforthinehelp.

First,Besurethatthousetthemagoodpattern.Letthylifebesoexact,thatothersmaywriteafterthycopywithcredit.Lookonthyselfasnewborn for this end, that thou mightest adorn the doctrine of God thySaviour. Parents and masters are often authentic patterns to all theirinferiors;theirzealwillprovokemany,andiftheyfall,astallcedarstheybeatdownmanyshrubs.Oh,therefore,donothingofwhichthoumayestnotsaytothyfamilyandneighbours,asGideontohissoldiers,'Lookonme,anddo likewise,'Judges7:17. It is reportedof theharesofScythia,thattheyteachtheiryoungonestoleapfrombanktobank,fromrocktorock, by leaping before them,which otherwise theywould never learn;andbythismeans,whentheyarehunted,nobeastcanovertakethem.Dothou set others a pattern, in the performance of duties, and in theexerciseofgraces,thatotherslearningbythineexample,maytherebybesecuredfromSatan,thegreatdestroyer.

The moral is good of the fable. The old crab bid the young one goforwards. Shew me the way, saith the young crab; the mother goethbackwardandsideling,thedaughterfollowethher,saying,Lo,Igojustasyou do. Truly thus thy little ones will quickly imitate thy doings. Becareful,therefore,howthoulivest;walkcircumspectly,considerofeveryexpressionandaction,notonlywhetheritbelawful,butalsowhetheritbeexpedientandexemplary.

Thy religiouspatternmaydomore good than theminister's preaching;they preach with their lips one day in a week, but thou by thy lifepreachest all the week long, 1 Pet. 2:12. Have thy conversation honestamongothers, that theymayglorifyGodinthedayof theirvisitation,1Pet.2:12.

Secondly,Letthyprayersbeconstantandinstantfortheirregeneration.HowcanIseethedeathofmychild?saidHagar.Alas!howcanstthousee

theeternaldeathofthydearchildren?Whenthoukneelesttoprayerwiththywife, children, and servants, and considerest thatdeathwill shortlybreakup thyhouse, and thenheaven andhellwill claim their due; theregenerate shall go to heaven, the unregenerate to hell; thou and they,who live together, are likely to be parted asunder for ever; good Lord,how shouldst thou pray for them! with what fervency, with whatimportunity!Thouartnewborn,andknowestthathellandheavenarenojesting matters; doth not thine heart ache to think that any of thineshoulddwellineverlastingburnings?ohgotoChrist,asthecenturionforhissickchild, 'Sir,comedowneremychilddie,'John4:49.Lord,comedowneremypoor childrendie for ever.Andas thewomanofCanaan,'Havemercyonme,OLord,thouSonofDavid,mydaughterisgrievouslyvexedwithadevil;Lord,helpme. If thoucanstdoany thing,helpme.'Lord,pitypoorchildren,andformthydearSoninthem.ThuscarrythylittlechildrentoJesusChrist,andentreathimtoputhishandsonthem,andblessthem.HannahbyprayerobtainedaSamuel;ohletusprayhardthatalloursonsmaybeasgraciousasSamuel,andallourdaughtersasfullofgoodworksasDorcas.Xenophonsaidheneverprayedthathissonmightlivelong,butthathemightlivewell.Augustinewasachildofmanyprayers,anddidnotperish.

Thirdly,Do thineendeavour toregenerate them,by instructing theminthe precepts of God. David and Bathsheba were often droppinginstruction into their son Solomon, 1 Chron. 28:9; Prov. 4:3–10. Piouseducationhathmadeahappyrenovationinseveralsouls: 'Teachachildthe trade inhis youth, andhe shall not depart from itwhenhe is old,'Prov.22:6.Othersteachtheirchildrentolieandsteal,andtocurseandswear. I have read a story of a wicked mother, that persuaded herdaughtertoyieldtothelustofarichman,inhopethathewouldmarryher; the daughter did yield, but quickly after fell sick and died; themother hereupon fell distracted, and cried out often, Omy daughter'ssoul,Omydaughter'ssoul!Ihavemurderedmydaughter'ssoul.Ifothersentice their relations to uncleanness, shall not we encourage ours toholiness! Whilst this world lasteth the devil will have servants; many,many fathers bring up their children to his hand. Oh wilt not thouendeavourthat,whenthouartdead,thylittleonesmaybeagenerationarisingtopraiseGod!TrulythylovetoGodmustneedsobligetheetodo

thine utmost, that his vast perfections and infinite excellenciesmay bedeclaredandadmiredthroughoutallgenerations.

Melanchthon,onadayofprayer,wentoutalittlefromhiscompanyverysorrowful, and returned in a short time to them very joyful; of whichLuther asking him the reason, he gave this account, That there wereyoungcaptainstrainingup,forhehadheardmanychildrenlearningandrepeatingtheirsoundcatechism,whichwoulddefendthecauseofChrist.Thegoodmanwasextremelycheered,thatthoughthepopeandemperorsoughttounderminethetruereligion,yetyoungchildrenwerelearningtodefendit.SureIam,thouwiltdiewiththemorecomfort,ifthoucansthavehopes that after thydecease theblessedGodshallbeexalted, andhisgospelpropagatedintheplacewherethoudostdwell.Andohwhatagloriousheavenuponearthwillthyhousebe,ifthegraciousGodshallsoprosperthypattern,prayers,andprecepts,that,asthou,likethesun,sothywifelikethemoon,andthychildrenandservantslikethestars,mayallshineandsparklewiththelightandheatofrealholiness!

Toendall,lookonthychildren,servants,andneighboursaspassengersinaboat,anddothouwiththyfellow-convertsrowhard,makeuseofallwinds,improveeveryopportunitytolandthemallsafelyatthehavenofheaven.

SoliDeoGloria.

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