The remedie of reason not so comfortable for matter, as compendious for memorie. Wherein the ignorant may gather instruction, the learned confirmation, all men consolation. By Charles Gibbon.

Author: Gibbon, Charles, fl. 1589-1604.1589

The Remedie of Reason: Not so comfortable for matter, as compendious for memorie.

Wherein the ignorant may gather instruction, the learned confirmation, all men consolation.

By Charles Gibbon.

Be readie alwaies to giue an answer to euerie man that asketh you a Reason of the hope that is in you, &c. 1. Peter 3.15, 16.

If any man think that he knoweth any thing, he knoweth nothing yet as he ought to knowe. 1. Cor. 8.2.

Imprinted at London by Thomas Orwin.

1589.

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To the right Worshipfull Sir Robert Iarmin Knight: And to the VVorshipfull Master Henrie Blagge Esquier: perfect fruition of infinite felicitie.

SAlomon, that most renowmed and royal King, waying the wretchednes of this world by the weight of his wonderfull wisedome, could no lesse but redouble his words, and saie: Vanitas vanitatum, Math. 7.33. vanitas vanitatum, & omnia vanitas. Which seeing it is so (Right Worshipfull) it behoueth euery one of vs, not so much to auoid the causes that maie prouoke vs to vanitie, as to practise all the meanes that may procure vs to pietie; and to walke with such foresight in this terrestriall pilgrimage, as wee may haue fruition of felicitie in the coelestiall Paradise; according to the counsell of our Sauiour Christ, who willeth vs first to seeke the kingdome of GOD and his righteousnes;Colos. 3 2. and not dissenting from the saying of the Apostle,Eccle. 1.2. who perswadeth vs to set our affections on things that are aboue, and not on things that are on the earth. Insomuch, as all our knowledge is but vaine that is seduced with vanitie; all our wisedome [Page] is but meere follie that is carried away with earthly cogitations; yea, all our dooings detestable that tend onelie to temporall dispositions: for there is none to be deemed wise indeed, that will not bestowe his talent in the treasure of Gods word, considering it is so precious that it ought more to bee desired than gold, yea than much fine gold;Psal. 19 10. Psalm 119.97. and it is so delectable, that in sweetnes it exceedeth the honie & the honie combe; wherein Dauid did oppose his whole delight. And it is so expedient for vs to profite therein, as he that hath much may yeeld somewhat, sithence he that hath lesse shall not bee excused with nothing. The Lord will looke for tenne talents where he left fiue,Matth. 25.22. and wil punish him that maketh no profite where he bestowed one. Hereof it is I haue proceeded in this enterprise, & bestowed my time to the benefite of others; which although it bee not comparable to any commendable woorke, yet that is not excusable for any to detract his duetie, seeing God will accept a mite of a willing minde; neither ought to be contemptible amongst others though all bee not currant, for the building is furthered by inferiour helpes though it be framed by finer heads. Againe, the world is now growne into his last age, wherein sects, schismes, and errors doo spread, and sinne and iniquitie aboundeth; insomuch as (I feare me) it is with many of vs in England, as it was with the people of Israel, Exod. 16. they loathed Manna that fell from heauen for the sustenance of their bodies, and too too many of vs doo little regard that spiritual Manna (the word of God) that is sent for the succour of our soules. Hereof it is I haue made choice of your good Worships, and presented my labours to your [Page] godlie patronage, assuring my selfe that as you bee fauourers and followers of Gods word, so you will be defenders of the fruites of the same, and rather be preferrers than defacers of a forward action: not doubting but your Worships will well accept of it, as a worke importing and proceeding of good will, by the consideration of that excellent example of the poore widowe, preferring the simplicitie of the giuer before the sufficiencie of the gift; knowing that the imperfection of the present may bee couered by the presumption of the Poet; and I may say in the want of well doing, Est voluisse satis. Thus being loath to be too tedious in my Epistle, hauing obserued breuitie in all the whole booke, I referre the consideration thereof to your graue censures, submitting my selfe to your good curtesies, & committing your Worships to the protection of the Almightie.

Your Worships to command, Charles Gibbon.

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❧ To the Christian and curteous Reader.

HE that doth publish a matter to the iudgment of many, the same requireth to be done, not lightlie but deliberatlie; considering it is subiect to sundrie Censures, and in reading and iudging all are not Candidi Lectores. In regard whereof, (good Christian Reader) I haue published my paines to thy profite, and presented the liking of it to thy looking ouer, hauing (as nigh as I may) not onelie cut off all such occasions, as might cause cauillation; but also ministred such matter as concernes our consolation: and although it bee not polished preciselie for the expectation of the curious, yet it is finished plainlie for the information of the simple. Now it may bee, there bee many that will vse obiections against the triple forme of this treatise; because no Arte hath reduced all things (and rightly) to Dicotomies. True; but wisedome may contriue much compendiously, and yet profitablie: besides although I haue framed it as an easie enterance for the erudition of the ignorant, J haue not excluded what may further be added by the consideration of the learned: and albeit much more might be inserted in many places for prolixitie, yet much lesse I feare me is obserued of the most part for their vtilitie. Some will require a more direct placing of thinges in their order. Certes that is well placed that is well applied; and those that do more respect the manner of placing than the matter it selfe, may be noted in the number of those, who would haue the Psalmes of Dauid to precede, and not to follow the booke of Iob; making a scrupulous question without cause, when wee all knowe they are both included in the Scriptures, & containe comfortable matter for our saluation. Some will not like so many diuers sorts of [Page] sundrie things congest together in one heape, other will require more perspicuitie, some one thing, some another. Insomuch, as he that expecteth to please the opinions of all people, must either refraine from open publication of any thing, or referre himselfe to their generall dispositions in iudgement: and this is the common successe of acceptance; many will commend it, most will mislike it, fewe will followe it. But as my meaning was to profite the simple by the setting foorth of it, so I shall perswade the godlie to a good liking of it: and as for the froward I will not refell their foolish questions in disputation about it, knowing what the Apostle Paule saith, that foolish and vnlearned questions ingender strife. So,2. Tim. 2.23. wishing all to measure others by the met they would receiue themselues, and so to report as they expect in any enterprise, I both submit my self to reprehension, so it be pertinent; and commit euery one to his owne liking, so it bee indifferent. Vale. Bury S. Edmond.

Yours in the Lord, Charles Gibbon.

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O Lord

Aduance thy glorious Gospell heere: Amen.

No papall parts may once appeere. Amen.

Giue peace & plentie alwaies there: Amen.

Let not the foe procure our feare. Amen.

Inlarge her life whereby we stay, Amen.

And make vs thankefull euery day. Amen.

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The remedie of Reason.

EVerie mans knowledge ought to be
- reasonable
- appliable
  - towards God,
  - to himselfe,
    - 1 That hee presume not to vnderstande aboue that which is meete to vnderstand. Rom. 12.3.
    - That according to his knowledge hee shewe the same in his life and conuersation; or els his great knowledge will cōdemn him: Lu. 12.48.
    - That as hee hath receiued the gift, hee minister the same to others. 1. Peter 4.10.
  - to others,
- profitable
2 He that would attaine to an effectuall knowledge of God, must remember
- his precepts. Luther.
- his promises. Luther.
- his threatnings. Luther.
3 The eternal power of God maie be knowne
- by the reuelation of his word,
- by the creation of the world,
- by the consideration of al his works.
4 The infallible prouidēce of God may appeare vnto vs by the preseruation
- of Daniel in the lyons denne. Dan. 6.16.
- of Ionas in the whales bellie. Ionas. 1.15.
- of the three Children in the fierie ouen.
[Page]5 The prouidence of God is wonderful, for he worketh
- by meanes:
- without means:
  - For meat is a meane to serue his prouidence for the preseruation of health and life here: hee that contemneth to eate, because his prouidence is certaine and infallible, doth contemne his prouidence.
  - For if it were so that meate could not be had, thē should we not tye his prouidēce to this meane; for without meate God can helpe and giue health and life here.
  - For his power and wisedome is infinite, & therfore we should depend vpō his prouidēce, euen when al is cleane against vs.
- against meanes:
6 The exceeding mercie of God is made manifest vnto vs in the Scriptures
- By the miraculous examples of compassion.
- By the manifold words of consolation.
- By the death of his onelie sonne for our propitiation.
[Page]He that mistrusts the mercie of God, denieth him to be
- Loue,
- Truth,
- Power,
  - 7 wherin cō sists all the hope of poore sinners:
    - Because of his great loue hee sent his onlie sonne to suffer death for the remission of our sinnes.
    - Because hee promised for the loue of his sonne, pardon to all poore sinners so oft as they require it in faith, with a cōtrite hart.
    - Because he is as true of his promises, as hee is able to performe them; & as he is of power, so wil he do whatsoeuer pleaseth him.
8 The superabundant loue of God appeareth to vs in this, that he sent his owne Sonne
- for our Redemption.
- for our Iustification.
- for our Sanctification.
9 The ioyes of heauen prepared for those that loue God, are such as
- the eye hath not seene,
- the eare hath not heard,
- the hart cannot cōceiue.
1. Cor. 2.9
[Page]10 Euerie one ought to knowe the difference in beleeuing
- a God,
- of God,
  - Is to beleeue he is the onelie true and almightie God; this faith is Historicall, for so the diuelles beleeue as well as the wicked.
  - Is to beleeue all is true that he saith in the Scriptures of him; and so doo the euill Christians aswell as the good, vnlesse they bee Heretickes.
  - Is to loue him, and to trust in his goodnesse, and in beleeuing to ioyne our selues to him by loue and obedience; this faith is Euangelicall, onely proper to the elect (who liue by faith).
- in God,
11 It is not sufficient for vs to saie, we
- know God,
- loue God,
- feare God,
vnlesse we keep his commandements. 1. Ioh. 2
12 GOD sheweth vppon earth
- mercie,
- iudgement,
  - wherein consists our saluation.
  - wherwith he punisheth the wicked.
  - whereby hee preserueth the godlie.
- iustice,
Iere. 9.24 &c.
[Page]God oftentimes crosseth and punisheth man vpō earth
- for his owne glorie,
- for example to others,
- for triall of his faith,
13 as appeare
- by the blindman. Ioh. 9.3.
- by the Galileans. Luk. 13.3.
- by Iob that patient man.
14 God in times past spake and preached to his people
- by Dreames.
- by Visions.
- by Reuelations.
GOD hath appointed three places for all persons.
- The ioyes of heauen
- The paines of hell
  - 15 for the godlie;
  - for the wicked;
  - for both.
- The vse of the earth
GOD is worthelie said to bee
- rich in mercie,
- mightie in iustice,
- bountiful in grace,
16 in that he
- respecteth the humble freelie.
- iudgeth the wicked iustlie.
- saueth sinners pitifullie. Barnard.
17 GOD requireth no more at our hands but these three things,
- Feare.
- Obedience.
- Loue.
Deut. 10.12.
[Page]18 God ought to be loued of vs,
- with all our hearts,
- with all our soules,
- with al our strength. Deut. 10.12.
All thinges worke for the best to thē that loue GOD. Rom. 8.28.
19 God is loued effectually three manner of waies:
- entirelie,
- orderlie,
- pretiouslie.
  - In hauing a good will to him, reioycing greatlie hee is such a one as he is.
  - In referring ourselues & all that wee haue to him, in such manner & measure as he willeth.
  - In louing him so dearelie that for no cause, wee would loose him or his loue, but wish rather to lose our liuing, life, and the loue of all the world.
20 Loue is the end of the Commandement. 1. Tim. 1.5.
- Loue cannot bee without a good conscience.
- A good conscience cannot bee without faith.
- Faith cannot bee without the word of God.
21 We ought continuallie to bee thankfull to God, because
- of him
- through him
- for him
are all things. Rom. 11.36.
[Page]True thankfulnes consisteth in these three things.
- Comemoration,
- Abiection,
- Narration.
  - 22 Because in recounting Gods exceeding benefits he hath done for vs, wee shall finde the better occasion (if we well cōsider) to be the more thankfull for them, as Dauid did, which made him in feruencie of spirit burst forth with these speaches: What shall I render vnto the Lord for al his benefites bestowed vppon me? Psal 116.12, 13, 14.
  - Because if wee measure the multitude of Gods benefites with our desarts, we shal find our selues not worthie of the least, but in respect of our imperfections we are no better than Abiects, which we should not onelie acknowledge, and saie with the same Prophet, Lord what is man that thou art so mindful of him? Psal. 144.3. But also in regard therof say (with him) I will not die but liue (to this end) to declare the works & goodnes of God he hath done for me. Psal. 118.17.
  - Because it is not enough for vs to receiue Gods benefits & be mindful thereof, but also we are bound to make others to profite thereby and praise God, as the same Psalmograph did. Come (saith he) and hearken all ye that feare God, and I will tell you what he hath done to my soule. Psal. 66.16.
[Page]23 We ought continuallie to haue the feare of God before our eyes;
- because it is the beginning of wisedome. Pro. 9.10.
- because it causeth vs to depart from all euill. Pro. 19.23.
- because his mercie is on such from generation to generation. Luk. 1.50
It was the treasure of Hezekiah. Esai. 33.6.
24 There be three kinde of feares.
- childlie feare,
- seruile feare,
- naturall feare,
  - This appertaineth to the godlie, who feare God onelie for his goodnes, without any sinister respects. Acts 9.31.
  - This is proper to the wicked, who feare God onely for his punishment. 2. King. 17.3.
  - This is common to both, for faith oftentimes faileth the very elect. Matth. 14.26.
25 The feare of God (as S. Barnard saith) is
- The water of wholesome wisedome.
- The Well of life.
- The beginning of knowledge.
He that hath this feare before his eyes,
- his waies are beautifull.
- his pathes are peaceable.
- his footsteps are vnmouable.
26 This may inforce vs to feare God;
- because he is said to be terrible, and a God of reuenge. Exod. 23.
- because his house shalbe soone ouerthrowne that feares him not Eccle. 27.3.
- because he is such a one as is able to cast both bodie and soule into hell fire. Matth. 10.28.
[Page]27 God repented him of three things:
- That he had made man on the earth. Gen. 6.6.
- That he had made Saule King. 1. Sam. 15.11.
- That he had sent euil to the Israelites. 2. Sa. 24
28 God neuer repenteth, although it seemeth so to mans iudgemēt, when any thing goeth contrarie to his temporall election.
- Because his eternal coūsell is immutable. Hose 13.14.
- Because he is not man that he should repent. 1. Sa. 15.
- Because all his workes are exceeding good. Ec. 39.16
GOD ought to be worshipped of vs
- with our hearts
- with our mouthes
- with our workes
  - sincerelie;
  - boldlie;
  - accordinglie;
    - 29 Because with the heart man beleeueth vnto righteousnes. Ro. 10.10.
    - Because with the mouth he confesseth vnto saluation. Rom. 10.10.
    - Because by workes hee sheweth the fruites of his faith and profession. Iam. 2.17.
30 In the true worship of God this is to be considered:
- If we acknowledge him in our hearts, and denie him with our mouthes, or any of our members, he wil denie vs; and this is no better than idolatrie. Luk. 12.9.
- If we drawe nie him with our lips, and are farre from him with our hearts, he will not heare vs; for this is meere hypocrisie. Psal. 18 41.
- If wee doo workes, and they bee done without faith, hee will not accept them, for it is but iniquitie. Ro. 14.23.
[Page]31 Whatsoeuer wee neede, we must require the same of God by praier. Phil. 4.6. For although he knoweth our want before wee aske, yet we must praie:
- Because hee hath commanded we should. Luk. 21.39.
- Because wee continuallie want that grace which hee hath promised to giue.
- Because the diuel is busie. Least wee fall into temptation. Luk. 22.40.
32 Praier is very expediēt and profitable: (considering our whole saluation consisteth in the calling vpon the name of God) for thereby he is whollie present with vs by his
- fatherly prouidence,
- infallible power,
- infinit goodnes,
  - By the which he continually watcheth ouer vs.
  - By the which he sustaineth and succoureth our weakenes, being euery momēt readie to perish.
  - By the which hee receiueth vs into fauour beeing miserablie laden with sin.
33 Our praiers are to bee vsed generallie
- at all times;
- in all places;
- for all persons,
  - Because the Lord hath promised to heare vs at what time soeuer we call vpon him faithfullie. Ezek. 18.19.
  - Because he is euery where, whether shall I goe from thy spirit (saieth Dauid.) Psalm 139.6.
  - Because it is our duetie to pray one for another. Iam. 5.16.
[Page]In our praier we are to consider
- in whose presence we stand,
- to whom we speake,
- what we desire,
  - 34 That seeing wee stand in the presence of God, (to whose Maiestie so innumerable thousands of Angels doo assist and be subiect) wee maie haue a reuerent regard of his maiestie in preparing our selues to praier, least therby we tempt him. Eccl. 18.22.
  - That seeing we intercomō with him that knoweth the secretes of our hearts, (before whō nothing is more odious than hypocrisie) we call vpon him in truth, least he reiect our suites.
  - That seeing praiers at aduēture are vnprofitable (which proceed more of custome frō the lips, than of zeale from the heart) wee aske those thinges which be most to the glory of God, and the cōfort of our consciences, least we aske & eceiue not. Iam. 4.2.
[Page]35 We must offer & cō tinue our praiers
- faithfully without doubting;
- charitablie without wrath;
  - Because the Lord hath not promised to graunt, but onelie to such as beleeue to obtaine: and therefore he saith, Whatsoeuer you desire when you praie, beleeue that you shall haue it and it shall bee done vnto you. Mar. 11.24.
  - Because we cannot bee assured of Gods fauour, vnles we forgiue (which is after the maner of a Sacrament vnto vs) Hereof saith our Sauiour Christ When you pray forgiue that your father maie forgiue you. Mar. 11.25.
  - Because the Lord requireth perseuerance in our praiers, according to that same saying of S. Paule. In due season we shall reape if we faint not. Gala. 6.9.
- incessantlie without fainting,
36 We must not offer our praiers
- to any idoll;
- to any earthlie man;
  - For it is abhomination in the sight of God. Deut. 27.15.
  - For cursed is hee that putteth his trust in man. Ier. 17.5.
  - For Christ is our onelie Mediatour. Iohn 17.3.
- to any heauenlie Sainct;
[Page]Our praiers must be vsed & offered to God by Christ Iesus.
- 37 Because all power is giuen into his hands. Iohn. 5.22.
- Because in him the father is well pleased. Matth. 3 17.
- Because without him wee can doo nothing. Ioh. 15.5.
He that offereth an effectual praier, must haue
- a liuelie feeling faith. Psal. 145
- peace and loue with his neibour. Mat. 6.
- a life answerable to this faith. 1. Ioh 3.
38 lest it be
- hindered. 1. Pet. 3.
- not regarded. Mat. 6.
- turned into sinne. Psal. 109.
39 Our praier hath his perfection from Christ, or els it could not preuaile:
- For he was made sinne for vs, that wee might bee made the righteousnes of God. 2. Cor. 5.21.
- For to him that worketh not, but beleeueth in him that iustifieth the vngodlie, his faith is counted for righteousnes. Rom 4.5.
- For wee being iustified through faith, haue peace towards GOD through him. Rom. 5.1.
40 Christ Iesus maie verie fitlie be called
- our eye;
- our mouth;
  - Because by him wee see the father.
  - Because by him wee speake to the father.
  - Because by him we offer to the father.
- our hand.
[Page]41 The Lord will not alwaies presentlie heare our praiers, or grant our requests;
- Because he will trie our faith and patience. Hereof saith Dauid, I waited patiently for the Lord, and hee inclined vnto me and heard my crie. Psal. 40.1.
- Because they are impertinent: For wee knowe not what to pray as wee ought. Rom. 8.26. And therefore wee aske and haue not, because we aske amisse. Iam. 4.3.
- Because they accord not with his pleasure: For this assurance wee haue, if we aske according to his will he heareth vs. 1. Iohn 5.14.
42 To this end in praier wee should lift vp
- our eyes,
- our handes,
  - That they may not incline or bee carried away with vanitie. Hereof saieth Dauid, Turne awaie mine eyes from regarding vanitie. Psal. 119.37.
  - That wee should remember our selues to be farr off from GOD, vnles wee lift vp our hearts also on hie and therefore saith the same Prophet, To thee haue I lift vp my soule. Psal. 25.1.
  - That therby we should know, if our harts be not farre from terrestriall cogitations, wee shall hardly receiue any celestiall consolations.
- our hearts,
[Page]43 We maie lawfullie in praier aske corporal benefites of God:
- Because wee should thereby knowe that he is the author & giuer thereof, and should not onelie be thankfull to him for it, but thereby to seeke, loue and worship him.
- Because we should be perswaded of his good prouidence towards vs, in that hee hath not onelie promised, he wil neuer faile vs. Ios. 7. but also hath an outstretched hand to helpe them that call vpon him.
- Because our faith of reconciliation and remission of sinnes, should be exercised through the asking of these corporall things.
44 The feruent praier of the righteous much auaileth, not onelie for themselues, but for others:
- At Moses praier the plague ceased. Exod. 8.
- Helias caused great plentie of raine. 1. King. 17.
- Queene Hester deliuered her and her people. Hest. 14.
45 We ought to referre all our praiers, requests and dooings to Gods good pleasure, following the example
- of Christ,
- of Dauid,
  - when he was crucified without cause by the Iewes. Mat. 26.4.
  - when hee was dispossessed of his kingdom by his sonne. 2. Sa. 15.26.
  - when he was afflicted most grieuouslie by Sathan. Iob. 2.7. & 13.
- of Iob,
[Page]46 The meanes wherby we are drawne to saluation, is
- Faith.
- Hope.
- Charitie.
  - The chiefest of these is Loue; because it serueth here and in the world to come. 1. Cor. 13.13
47 The work of a true faith is builded vpon
- things past:
- things present:
  - We beleeue the death of Christ is past.
  - Wee beleeue at this present hee sitteth at the right hand of his father.
  - Wee beleeue that Christ shall come to iudge the quicke and the dead.
- things to come: August.
48 Faith doth grow and increase in vs three manner of waies:
- By the hearing of the word of God preached:
- By the reuerent receiuing of the Sacraments:
  - Because it laieth before our eyes the promises which God in his Gospell hath made vnto vs in his Sonne.
  - Because they being right lie receiued of vs, are as pledges and seales of the promises of GOD, made vnto vs, in his word.
  - Because God hath made an especiall promise to vs thereby, that he will heare vs whatsoeuer wee aske according to his will.
- By praier and inuocation.
[Page]49 A true and liuelie faith must be
- simple
- sound
- constant
  - in beleeuing
  - in defending
  - in following
    - The word of God without inquiring or searching in Gods mystical matters, by humane reasons.
    - The truth thereof without inclining or leaning to the erronious opinions of the aduersaries of the same.
    - The same worde without doubting, for anie reason of mans braine that seemeth contrary, nor to be drawn awaie from it by temptations, promises, or thretnings either of torment or of death.
Such as will know whether they haue an effectuall faith, must consider
- The fruits of it
- The triall of it
- The ende of it
is
- good works:
- affliction
- saluation
  - 50 For faith without workes is dead Iam. 2.17
  - For it is not sufficient for vs to beleue in christ but also to suffer for his sake. Philip. 1.29.
  - For he that continueth to the ende (hath this comfort) shalbe saued. Mat. 24.
[Page]51 A iustifying faith is knowne by these effects:
- It bringeth foorth fruites. Mat. 7.18. Iam. 3.18.
- It worketh by loue. Galat. 5.6.
- It apprehendeth Gods mercie offered in Christ.
52 Faith differeth from Hope, and yet we hope in
- things present:
- things past:
  - As when I hope I am in Gods fauour.
  - As when I hope my sins be forgiuen me.
  - As when I hope to haue eternall life.
- things to come
53 Charitie is a singuler vertue, for without it what is 1. Cor. 13.
- Faith:
- Knowledge:
- Martirdome:
  - It auaileth little though it moue mountaines.
  - It profiteth litle though I speake with tongues of men and Angels.
  - It helpeth little though I offer my bodie to be burned.
54 We ought to liue in Loue and Charitie:
- Because it is the effect and fulfilling of the Commandement or whole Law. 1. Tim. 1.5.
- Because it is a testimonie vnto vs of our translation from death to life, whereby wee are made the children of God and heires in heauen. 1. Ioh. 3.14.
- Because it worketh the cause in vs, that God dwelleth in vs, for God is loue, & he that dwelleth in loue dwelleth in God and God in him. 1. Ioh. 4.8.
[Page]Workes of superarrogation are verie friuolous, for our works are in no wise auailable to saue vs, by reason of
- Their imperfection:
- Gods election:
- Christes passion.
  - 55 Because all our righteousnes is no better than filthie cloutes, (or as some write) menstruous clothes. Esai. 64.6.
  - Because wee shoulde then chose God rather by our workes, than he should elect vs of his mere grace, and then grace were no grace. Rom. 11.6.
  - Because his Sonne should haue suffered in vaine, if wee had anie sufficiencie of our selues.
56 Although workes are not the cause of our saluation, yet partly they are the effects of it, & good workes are very necessarie to be vsed amongst Christians,
- That therby God may be glorified. Matth. 5.16.
- That by their good exāple others may be wonne to the word. 1. Pet. 3.1.
- That by them they maie make their election sure. 2. Pet. 1.10.
57 Dauid numbreth three degrees of our saluation. Psal. 40.10, &c.
- Gods mercie,
- His righteousnes,
  - whereby he fatherlie pitieth vs.
  - whereby he continuallie protecteth vs.
  - wherby appeareth his constant fauour towards vs.
- His trueth,
[Page]58 There bee three causes of our saluation: the
- efficient cause,
- materiall cause,
  - GOD the Father is the beginning of our saluation.
  - Christ Iesus is hee, in whom our righteousnes is resident.
  - Faithe is the meane whereby wee apprehend the same.
- instrumentall cause,
59 S. Paul approueth the formall cause of our saluation to be the free mercie of God: for
- whom he predestinate he callerh,
- whom hee calleth hee iustifieth,
- whom he iustifieth he glorifieth. Rom. 8.30.
By grace ye are saued through faith. Eph. 2.8.
60 Although there be many reasons whereby wee maie assure our selues to bee elected, yet wee may brieflie gather our election
- By the holie Ghost, which testifieth with our spirite that we are the children of GOD. Rom. 8.15.
- By the fruites of the Spirit, in hauing good workes, or will to doo well.
- By remorse of conscience, ioyned with the lothing of sinne, and loue of righteousnes.
61 Election is knowne by these testimonies. Beza. 2. Thess. 2.10.11.
- Faith is gathered by sanctification, and by according to the truth.
- Truth is gathered by calling, through the preaching of the Gospell.
- The Gospell assureth vs of a certaine hope of glorification.
[Page]62 Touching Election & Reprobation, this is to be considered:
- That the onelie will and purpose of God; is the chiefe cause of both.
- That his free mercie in Christ, is an inferiour cause of saluation.
- That the hardning of the heart, is an inferiour cause of damnation.
63 This vndoubted perswasion wee ought generally to haue:
- Euerie one is elected or eiected at the beginning.
- Euerie one is an vnprofitable seruant when he hath done his best.
- Euerie one shal haue reward according to his worke.
We ought not to condemne or iudge any to bee reprobate; (albeit to bee without feare of GOD, and reuerence of man, are signes of reprobation. Psal. 64. vers. 4. &c.)
- 64 Because it is a secret only reserued to God, & therfore he hath said, Iudge not, that ye be not iudged. Matth. 7.1. Iam. 4.12.
- Because the Lord is not so merciful in forgiuing, as he is miraculous in calling; making of a persecutor an Apostle, as he did by Paule. Acts. 9.3.
- Because the very godly haue been greatly ouergone in this matter, as (that great Prophet of the Lord) Elias, in iudging the people of Israel. 1. King. 19.10.
65 These 3. steppes doo leade vs vnto destruction. Barn.
- The dissembling of our weakenes.
- The ignorance of our wretchednes.
- The excusing and perseuering in our wickednes.
[Page]66 The Scriptures are written for vs:
- That we might knowe the will of God and followe it.
- That wee might beleeue that Iesus is Christ the Sonne of God. Ioh. 20.31.
- That in beleeuing wee might haue life through his name. Ioh. 20.31.
67 The whole scriptures are diuided into three parts. Bar.
- Lawe.
- Prophets
- Gospell.
  - The Lawe
  - The Gospel
consist
- in doing.
- in beleeuing.
68 This may perswade vs to beleeue the authoritie of the Scriptures to be true. Bib.
- The secret testimonie of the holie Ghost in our hearts, which causeth vs to consent thereto.
- The incomprehensible Maiestie of God appearing in the simple and sincere doctrine therein.
- The godlie agreement of all parts together, with the orderlie disposition, certaintie, and successe thereof.
69 The Scriptures do set forth vnto vs (amongst many other) three especiall matters which we ought to remember.
- The frailtie of man, and his prone inclination to euill.
- The iustice of God, and his seuere punishment appointed for obstinate transgressors.
- The mercie of God, and his free pardon; promised to penitent sinners.
[Page]Euerie one ought effectually to know and search the holy Scriptures, for
- Knowledge;
- Confirmation;
- Consolation.
  - 70 Because the ignorance of them is the cause of all error.
  - Because wee must beleeue nothing, but that which is approoued by them. Acts. 17.11.
  - Because in them is cō tained eternal life.
We may gather knowledge in the Scriptures three manner of waies.
- 71 By attendant hearing of the same well preached.
- By diligent reading of the same with vnderstanding.
- By continuall conference with such as can open thē. Act. 8.30.
72 The word of GOD then draweth vs vnto him, Bib.
- When it is so preached and heard, as we vnderstand and learne what is taught thereby.
- When we receiue thankfullie that which is giuen, promised, and assured therein.
- When we bee moued with desire and diligence, to do that which it commandeth.
73 The word of God then hath his perfect worke, when it is
- Preached truelie.
- Beleeued faithfullie.
- Followed effectuallie.
[Page]74 Such as will not beleeue the word of God what followeth.
- If the righteous scarcelie bee saued, where shall the vngodlie and sinner appeare? 1. Pet. 4.8.
- Euerie vnfaithfull shall die in his vnfaithfulnes, saith Esdras. 2. Esdr. 15.4.
- Euerie vnbeleeuer is condemned alreadie. Iohn 3.18. and shall be punished with euerlasting perdition. 2. Thes. 1.
75 Ignorance can no way be excusable:
- For that which maie bee knowne of God is made manifest vnto vs. Rom. 1.19.
- For those that knowe not the lawe shall perish without the lawe. Rom. 2.12.
- For the offering for ignorant sinnes in the Leueticall law, argueth no excuse to be admitted. Leuit. 4.2.
76 Our Sauiour Christ describeth by the parable of the Sower three vnprofitable hearers of his word. Matth. 13.
- Such a one as heareth it and vnderstādeth it not, by reason the euill one commeth and catcheth it away out of his heart.
- Such a one as heareth it and receiueth it presently with great ioye, but when persecution or tribulation commeth, by reason of the word hee is offended.
- Such a one as heareth it, but the cares of this world and the deceiptfulnes of riches choake it, and the same is made vnfruitfull.
[Page]We ought to resort to the Church of God,
- 77 Because his holie mysteries are there laid open, which are hid & obscure to manie.
- Because we may bee vnited and coupled together by receiuing the Sacraments.
- Because if the Lord hath promised to grant our requestes, where two or three bee gathered together in his name, how much more will he bee mindfull of a multitude that so assemble themselues.
78 The Church of God hath three ancient and excellent ornaments.
- Preaching.
- Praier.
- Sacraments.
  - Preaching ingēdreth faith.
  - Praier increaseth it.
  - Sacraments confirme it.
The Church or Congregatiō ought to pray for all men, without anie difference of Nation, kind, age, or order: Beza. 1. Tim. 2.3, 4.
- 79 Because the Lord by calling of all sorts, yea, sometimes those that are the greatest enemies to the Gospel, wil haue his Church gathered together after this sort, & therfore praiers to be made for all.
- Because God should not els bee manifested to be the onlie God of all mē, vnles he should shew his goodnes in sauing of al sorts of men.
- Because his Sonne Christ Iesus should not be seen to be the onelie Mediator between God and of all sorts of men, by hauing taken vpō him that nature of man, which is common to al men, vnlesse he had satisfied for all sortes of men, and made intercession for all.
[Page]80 Sacramēts are
- Signes or badges of christianitie:
- Seales or pledges of our faith:
- Assurances of our saluation.
whereof there be 2.
- Baptisme.
- The Lords Supper.
81 The Sacrament of Baptisme, Bib.
- Teacheth vs to put on Christ, that his righteousnes may couer our sinfulnes. Galat. 3.27.
- Assureth vs wee are so grafted into Christ, that all our corruption is cleane washed away. Ephes. 5.26.27.
- Chargeth vs to mortifie, and die to sinne, that wee may become his seruants, and liue in mutuall amitie.
82 The Sacrament of the Lords Supper, Bib.
- Sheweth vs, that the bodie and bloud of Christ crucified, is the onelie foode for the regenerate.
- Assureth vs, that Christ is whollie ours, and that by faith our soules are fed and nourished in him vnto life euerlasting.
- Requireth a thankfull remembrance of his death, with vnitie amongst brethrē.
83 The Sacrament of the Lords Supper is vnworthelie receiued,
- when we receiue it onelie by the visible signe, without regard of the inuisible grace.
- when wee receiue it more of custome than good consideration, or more for feare than good affection.
- when we receiue it disorderlie, (beeing dronken) or with a corrupted conscience (cōtinuing in malice or enmitie).
84 The Sacrament of the Lords Supper must be
- receiued reuerentlie:
- eaten effectuallie:
- digested thankfullie.
therefore let euerie one trie and examine
- his knowledge.
- his faith.
- his repentance.
[Page]85 Good Ministers are most fit to minister the holie Sacraments, yet we may receiue them by the euill. Articl. Religio. 26.
- Because they do it in Christ his name, and not in their owne.
- Because their wickednes cannot take away the effect of the ordinance.
- Because of Christs institution & promise, so it be receiued rightly by faith
These three things are to to bee noted (whereof heretofore there hath arrise some question) concerning the Sacrament of the Lords Supper.
- By whom we receiue it.
- with whō we receiue it.
- How oft wee receiue it.
  - 86 we ought rather to receiue it at the hāds of the good Minister, if it be possible, yet we must not reiect the ministerie thereof by the wicked; so it be done formallie. Artic. pe.
  - we maie cōmunicate with euerie one, so they be not such as are notoriouslie knowne to be dronkards, adulterers, and such like: for that is prohibited. 1. Cor. 5.11.
  - we may receiue at al times, so our faith and conformitie bee fit for the same; otherwise it will turne to our condemnation (saith Paule.) 1. Cor. 11.27.
It is a pitifull, nay rather a pestiferous thing, to see such placed in the Ministerie, as be
- Ignorant
- Negligent
- Impudent
  - in learning:
  - in their calling:
  - in their liuing:
    - 87 For where there is no vision the people perish. Prouer. 29.18.
    - For they are accursed that doo the worke of GOD negligentlie. Ier. 48.10.
    - For their lewdnes maketh the word of God worse liked of 1. Sam. 2.17.
[Page]88 Idle Ministers, vnpreaching Pastors, and such like, are called nothing els but
- blind watchmen. Esa. 56.9.
- domme dogges. Esa. 56.10.
- subtile foxes. Eze. 13.4.
who destroy Gods vine for their own aduantage.
89 Godlie Preachers and Pastors will be verie carefull
- of the sinceritie of their doctrine,
- of the integritie of their liues,
- of all their whole actions,
that
- it bee agreeable to the word of God.
- they be cōformable to the same word.
- they bee profitable to the example of others.
90 These sayings may moue preachers, and such like to be verie
- carefull;
- watchfull;
- fearefull;
  - Because they must one daie yeeld an account of their stewardship.
  - Because his bloud shall be required at their hāds that dies in his iniquity thorow their negligence. Ezek. 33.6.
  - Because an hard iudgement shall trie him that beareth rule. Wisd. 6.5.
91 Godlie Preachers & Pastors are greatlie to be
- accepted
- loued
- obeyed
  - for their office sake,
  - for their workes sake,
  - for commandement sake,
    - Because they represent the person of God. Luk. 9.41. Mar. 10.41.
    - Because they dispose his secretes & mysteries. 1. Thes. 5.13.
    - Because they are appoynted ouerseers and watchers for our soules, as those that must yeeld accompt for them. Heb. 13.17.
[Page]92 S. Peter willeth preachets, pastors, & such like, to feed their flock, caring for it: 1. Peter 5.2.
- Not by constraint, but willinglie.
- Not for filthie lucre, but of a readie mind.
- Not as though they were lords ouer Gods heritage, but as examples to them.
S. Paul shewed a most worthie example to preachers and such like, by his
- duetifulnes
- painfulnes
- contentment
  - in preaching:
  - in labouring:
  - in liuing:
    - 93 For he ceased not by the space of three yeares to preach and warne euerie one both night and day with teares. Acts 20.31.
    - For he wrought with his own handes to minister to his necessities, not onelie because he would bee chargeable to none, but also to helpe to releeue others. 1. Cor. 4.12.
    - For although his liuing was little, yet he well accepted of all estates, without coueting any mans siluer, gold, or apparell Acts 20.33.
Preachers must teach the word of God, whether the people regard it, or no:
- 94 Because it may be a testimonie against the vnbeleeuers or neglecters of the same at the latter day. Deut. 18.19.
- Because the Lord will vse the means of his seruāts to make the wicked more faultie to proue his. Iere. 7.27, &c.
- Because it is their duetie to bee instant in season and out of season. 2. Tim. 4.2.
95 The spirit of prophecying or preaching is sometime giuen to the wicked aswell as the godlie; as appeared by
- Caiphas Iohn 11.51.
- Saule. 1. Sam. 10.10.
- Iudas the Apostle.
therefore wee must trie the spirits whether they be of God. 1. Ioh. 4 1.
[Page]96 The word of God ought not to be exempted from any estate, neither ought to be cōtemned in any person, in respect of his condition, calling, or vnworthines, professing the same profitable, considering God hath called
- Plowmen from the fields to be Prophets. 1. King. 19.19, 20.
- Shepherds from the folds to be zealous professors. Psal. 78.7.
- Fishermē from their nets to be followers of him. Mat. 4.18.
97 We must not condemne, or contemne the Ministers of God, if by infirmitie they fall into horrible offences, for Sathan hath beguiled the most godlie professors: as
- Lot that ancient Patriarke, became incestuous. Gen. 19.30.
- Dauid that excellent Prophet, committed homicid. 2. Sam. 11.25, 26
- Peter that good Apostle, prooued periured. Iohn 18.27.
98 It is verie dangerous to despise, persecute, or conspire the death of the ministers of GOD; as may appere by these three examples.
- Iezabel did threaten the death of Eliah; yet hee liued and was taken vp into heauen, when she died, & was eaten of dogges. 2. King. 19.35, 36.
- Saul intended the death of Dauid; yet hee escaped and became King, but Saul procured his owne death most desperatlie. 1. Sa. 31.4. 2. Sa. 1.9, 15.
- Herod put to death Iohn Baptist; but as his deedes were detestable before God, so his end was ignominious to the world, for he was eaten to death with wormes. Acts 12.13.
99 Preachers, Pastors, & such like, of all others, are most of all subiect to contempt and enmitie.
- Because Sathan by policie, procureth many to a disdaine of their persons, as a meane to induce them to a disliking of their doctrine.
- Because the Spirits of error are now spread abroad which wil deceiue the harts of many, and cause them to become cursed speakers, (especially against Gods ministers. 2. Tim. 3.2
- Because these are those perilous daies wherin it was long sithence prophecied, that manie should be despisers of thē which are good. 2 Tim. 3
[Page]100 Peter was three times commanded to feede his flocke: which is expounded 3. waies.
- with sound doctrine.
- with honest life.
- with good hospitalitie.
Bar. Ich. 21.
This worde (behold) doth commonlie import some great admiration vnto vs, as it is vsed concerning Christ at his
- Natiuitie:
- Passion:
- Second comming:
  - 101 Behold, (saith the Angel to the Shepheards) I bring you glad tidings, that vnto you is borne this day a Sauiour, which is Christ the Lord. Luk. 2.10.
  - Behold, (at his yeelding vp of the ghost) the vaile of the Temple was rent in twaine, the earth shaked, stones were clouen, the graues opened, &c. Math. 27.51.
  - Behold, (saith our Sauiour Christ) I come shortlie, & my reward is with me to giue to euerie man as his worke shall be. Apoc. 22.12.
102 Christ Iesus came into the world:
- Not as a Iudge, but as a Phisition.
- Not as a destroyer, but as a Sauiour.
- Not to call the iust, but sinners to repentance.
103 Christ Iesus descended & came (as was promised)
- Of the seede of Abraham.
- Of the tribe of Iuda.
- Of the stock of Dauid.
  - Beth-lehem brought him forth.
  - Nazareth brought him vp.
  - Capernaum was his dwelling place.
Theoph.
[Page]104 Christ Iesus
- was transfigured vpon Mount Thabor. Matth. 17.1.
- was crucified at Ierusalem. Heb. 13.12.
- was taken into heauen at Bethania. Luk. 24.50.
He liues vpon the earth
- before his passion 33. yeres.
- after his resurrection. 40. daies Acts 1.8.
105 Christ Iesus consisteth of three parts.
- Godhead,
- Soule,
- Bodie,
who
- as touching his humanitie had no father.
- as concerning his diuinitie had no mother.
106 It was necessarie that Christ should die.
- That the Scriptures might be fulfilled. Matth. 26.56.
- That hee might bruse the Serpents head. Gen. 3.15.
- That wee might haue life through him. 1. Ioh. 4.9.
107 Christ is said to die
- generallie,
- speciallie,
- valiantlie,
  - for all the world. 1. Tim. 2.6.
  - for those that beleeue. Heb. 9.12.
  - for that he ouercame death.
108 Christ had small cōfort of his Apostles when hee was taken prisoner, for
- Iudas betraied him,
- Peter forsware him.
- Al the rest forsook him.
And a great multitude followed him to his death:
- Some to hurt him.
- Manie to mock him.
- All to see the end of him.
109 The benefite wee reape by the death of Christ is great.
- He reconciled vs to his father. Colo. 1.20. 1. Ioh. 2.2.
- He redeemed vs from the curse of the lawe. Gal. 3.13.
- He shewed vs an easier way to heauen. Matth. 11.30.
110 Christ by his death became for man
- Curse,
- Sinne,
- Seruile,
considering
- The qualitie of his death Deut. 21.23.
- The integritie of his life. Esau. 53.9.
- The equalitie of his estate. Phi. 2
[Page]111 It was requisite that Christ should rise againe after death.
- Because he foreshewed it to his Apostle. Matth. 17.9.
- Because his flesh might not see corruption. Acts 2.31.
- Because we might bee iustified thorow him. Rom. 4.25.
112 It was necessarie that Christ should ascend after he was risen.
- That he might be fullie glorified. Ioh. 7.39.
- That hee might send downe the Comforter. Ioh. 16.7.
- That he might become our Mediatour. Ioh. 17.3.
113 Christ said that the Comforter at his comming should reprooue the world of
- Sinne.
- Righteousnes:
  - Because they beleeue not in him. Iohn 16.8.
  - Because he is gone to his father, &c. vers. 9.
  - Because the prince of this world is iudged. 10.
- Iudgement.
Christ hath shewen vs a worthie and wonderfull good example, of
- Patience:
- Humilitie:
  - 114 Because being oppressed and afflicted, hee did not open his mouth, but was like a sheepe dumme before the shearer. Esa. 53.7.
  - Because he tooke vpon him the shape of a seruant being equall with his father. Phil. 2.7.
  - Because he laid downe his own life for vs, than this what loue can be greater?
- Loue:
115 Christ is verie fitlie called, a
- Priest:
- King:
  - Because by his onelie sacrifice hee appeased his fathers wrath.
  - Because he raigneth ouer all. Ioh. 5.22.
  - Because he declared his fathers will. Acts. 7.37.
- Prophet:
[Page]116 There be 3. things that beare record of Christ in heauen:
- the Father,
- the Word,
  - who sent his Sonne.
  - which became flesh.
  - which proceedes frō both.
- the Holie Ghost,
2. Ioh. 57.
117 There be three things that beare witnes of Christ vpon earth.
- Spirit.
- Water.
- Bloud.
This assureth vs of our
- Adoption Rom. 8.16.
- Regeneration. Iohn 3.5.
- Redemption. Ephes. 1.7.
118 Those that loue Christ, must
- followe after him:
- passe through him:
- drawe neere him.
  - because he is the truth.
  - because he is the way.
  - because he is the life.
119 Christ being
- the truth,
- the way,
- the life,
manifesteth to vs his Beza.
- Nature:
- Will:
- Office:
So that in him we must
- begin.
- continue.
- ende.
120 He that will come after Christ must
- denie himselfe.
- take vp his Crosse.
- followe him.
wherin is laid before vs,
- Bondage,
- Basenes,
  - In denying himselfe.
  - In taking vp the Crosse.
  - In following Christ.
- Hardnes,
Barn.
121 Christ amased and appeased his enemies three manner of waies.
- By his sound doctrine.
- By his strange miracles.
- By his mild answers.
122 Christ descended into hell, as may appeare by these places. Articl. Relig. 3.
- Psal. 16.10.
- Iohn 20.17.
- Ephe. 4 9.
For so wee cōfesse in the Creede of
- Nicene.
- Athanasius.
- The Apostles.
123 Many produce these directions, to approue that the power, and not the soule of Christ descended.
- His speach to the theefe vpon the Crosse, this daie shalt thou be with me in Paradise.
- His yeelding vp the ghost when he said, It is finished. Luke 23.43.
- His agonie in the garden, in sweting drops of bloud & water.
For in hell is no redemption Luke 26.26.
[Page]124 Christ spake most by parables to the multitude:
- Because by seeing, they should see and not perceiue.
- Because by hearing, they should heare and not vnderstand.
- Because it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the Prophet Matth. 13.35.
Mat. 13.13.
125 The great miracles and wonders Christ wrought in this world, were done partlie to this end:
- To shewe the great power, glorie, and goodnes of his father. Matth. 15.31.
- To approue himselfe the sonne of God. Acts 2.22. And that he was sent of him. Ioh. 11.42.
- To confirme the authoritie and excellence of his doctrine, to winne the vnbeleeuers to it. Iohn 2.23.
126 Miracles are often called in the Scriptures, Beza. Hebr. 2.4.
- Signes:
- Wonders:
  - Signes, because they appeare one thing, and represent another.
  - Wonders, because they import some strange & vnaccustomable thing.
  - Vertues, because they giue vs a glimse of Gods power.
- Vertues.
127 Three singuler benefites shewen to man by
- the Father,
- the Sonne,
- the Holie Ghost,
  - He sent his sonne for our reconciliation.
  - His righteousnes is ours by imputation.
  - This proceedeth frō both, for our sanctification.
yet all one vnion.
[Page]127 It is a singuler comfort vnto vs to consider the exceeding loue of Christ towards vs, by that
- he hath done:
- he still doth:
  - Because he did not onelie sacrifice himselfe vpon the crosse for our sakes, but also satisfied his fathers wrath for our sins.
  - Because he did not onelie suffer for vs, but became also a continuall intercessor for vs.
  - Because he hath not onlie saued vs, but shall also come to iudge vs.
- he will doo:
128 Such as will presume of the time that Christ shall come to iudgement, may be reproued by these places.
- Math. 24.36.
- Mark. 13.32.
- 1. Thess. 5, 1.
For it is not for vs to knowe the times and the seasons the Father hath put in his owne power. Acts 1.12.
129 The comming of Christ is of 3. sorts.
- Vnto men.
- Into men.
  - Vnto men, in the flesh. Ioh. 1.14.
  - Into men, by his spirit. Ioh 14.18.
  - Against men, in iudgement. Apoc. 22.12.
- Against men.
130 It stands vs not vpon so much to vse disputation of the time of Christes comming to iudgement, as to be in a daylie preparation and reformation of our liues, considering
- Euerie mans end is imminent and vncertaine. Iam. 4.14.
- Euerie mans death is his latter daie. Hebr. 9.27.
- Euerie man as he dieth shal be iudged. Eccle: 11.3.
131 The comming of Christ to iudgement will be
- fearefull
- ioyfull
  - to the wicked;
  - to the godlie;
    - Because that daie is to them the beginning of their woe.
    - Because it is to them the full fruition of their felicitie.
    - Because of the sodaine alteration of all things.
  - to both;
- wonderfull
[Page]132 These; things doo argue the world to drawe to an end.
- the Figtree:
- charitie:
  - Because it florisheth. Mat. 24.33.
  - Because it waxeth cold. Ma. 24
  - Because it aboundeth. Ma. 24
- iniquitie:
133 The comming of Christ to iudgement will be of a sodaine,
- As a woman trauailing with child.
- As lightning from the East.
- In the houre we thinke not.
Be sober and watch: for happie are those seruants, which the Lord when he commeth shal find waking. Luk 12.37
134 Although it was said fifteene hundred, yeres & more since, The day of the Lord is at hand, and yet the world indure: we must not suppose those words to be friuolous or frustrate: for thereby the Lord doth make manifest vnto vs
- his infinite wisdome
- his exceeding mercie
  - in computation of yeares:
  - in delaying of the day.
    - Because he doth not reckō or record the time according to our knowledge or reason: for one day is with him as a thousand yeres, and a thousand yeres as one day. Psal 90.4.
    - Because hee would not haue vs perish, but would all men to come to repentance. 2. Pet. 3.9.
    - Because we doo not vse the bountifulnes of his patience & long sufferance accordingly Ro. 2.4
  - in cōsideration thereof.
- our impendent miserie
135 We must yeeld accompt at the latter day of all our sinnes committed in
- cogitation.
- communication:
- action.
  - Our thoughts shall either accuse or excuse vs. Rom. 2.15.
  - Our words shall either iustifie or condemne vs. Matth. 12.37.
  - Our workes shall then haue their due reward. Hebr. 9.27.
[Page]136 Our great accusers at the yeelding vp of our last account shall be
- the lawe:
- the diuell:
- our conscience:
besides that
- We shall stand belples before so manie Iudges, as haue excelled vs in good works.
- We shal be cast by so many euidences, as haue giuen vs example of good life.
- We shall bee conuinced with [...] witnesses, as haue admonished vs with wholsome counsell, and by their vertuous deedes, haue been patternes for vs to imitate.
137 The Pope doth rather prefer, than make himselfe equall, with the excellencie of our Sauiour Christ.
- He will bee the supreame of all the world, exempting himselfe from al obedience to any earthly prince, or reuerence to any people when Christ was content to acknowledge the authoritie of the Magistrate in paying toll, yea, euen to such as were enemies to Religion. Matth. 17.27.
- He giueth out his feete to bee kissed of men, euen of Kings and Emperours, when Christ did neuer so lay foorth his feete, but that hee washed and wiped his poore Disciples feete; and that because they should doo, as he had done to them. Ioh. 13.5, 15.
- He doth of pitie free one, or other, euerie daie from the parties of Purgatorie, when our Sauiour Christ did free none at all from those hellish paines.
[Page]138 The soule of man doth after death goe either to ioy or paine immediatlie, whereof there bee three examples (besides manifest proofes) that may flatlie refell the erronious opinions of such as falslie affirme there is a Purgatorie.
- The soule of Lazarus receiued into Abrahams bosome. Luke. 16.22.
- The soule of the theefe ascending into Paradise. Lu. 23.33.
- The soule of the rich man descending into hel. Luke. 16.23.
139 These three things are worthie to be continuallie noted;
- The secrets of God are vnsearchable.
- The ioyes of heauen are vnspeakable.
- The paines of hell are intollerable.
140 A vertuous man disposeth his waie in this world
- Prudentlie,
- Penitentlie,
- Prouidentlie,
  - To dispose and order things present.
  - To consider his misdeedes past.
  - To prouide and forsee for things to come.
S Paul diuideth man into; parts.
- Spirit.
- Soule.
- Bodie.
for then is man fullie sanctified,
- when his minde thinketh nothing
- when his will couets nothing.
- when his bodie executes nothing.
contrarie to the will of GOD. Thes. 5.23.
141 A godlie Christian ought to liue in this world Barnard.
- Soberlie.
- Iustlie.
- Godlie.
  - concerning himselfe,
  - concerning his neighbour.
  - concerning God.
    - 142 That he keep his bodie temperatly without abusing the gifts of God wantonlie or wastfullie.
    - That he deale plainly, vprightly, and charitablie, without dissimulation.
    - That he presume not too much of himselfe, but referre all to Gods good pleasure & prouidence.
[Page]143 A man should not doo amisse, saith Augustine:
- If forgetfulnes confound not his memorie.
- If error obscure not his vnderstanding.
- If iniquitie depraue not his will.
144 The state of man is three waies to bee considered.
- by creation
- by fall and sinne
- by regeneration
  - he was made like to the image of God, which image is expounded here Ephes. 4.24.
  - he became slaue vnto Sathan, & so procured the same thraldome to al posterities.
  - he is ingrafted into christ by faith, and in him hath recouered his former right.
145 A man is happie in this world that can
- Reioyce in aduersitie.
- Beare all crosses patientlie.
- Lament his sinne sorowfullie.
following the example of
- Paul. 2. Cor. 11.30.
- Iob. 1. verse 1.
- Peter. Luke. 22.62.
146 Euerie man should alwaies bee mindfull of his
- Creation:
- Conuersation:
- Dissolution:
  - Because he is dust, & to dust he shall returne. Gen. 3.
  - Because hee must one daie yeeld accompt of his liuing. Eccle. 12.24.
  - Because his end is vncertain; and as he falles, such iudgement followes. Eccl. 11.3.
[Page]147 Herein consists the whole duetie of man towards God.
- To feare him
- To loue him
- To keepe his commandements
  - for his iustice:
  - for his goodnes:
  - to confirme it.
    - Because it is horrible to fall into his hāds. Heb. 10.31.
    - Because hee loued vs first. 1. Ioh 4.19.
    - Because those that loue him will keepe his cōmandements. 2. Ioh. 5.3.
148 S. Iames willeth euerie man to be
- Swift to heare.
- Slowe to speake.
- Slowe to wrath.
Iames. 1.19.
149 No man hath cause to glorie in himself, if hee consider what he is, of himselfe,
- By Substance,
- By Nature,
- By Knowledge,
  - he was made of the dust. Gen. 3.7.
  - he is the childe of wrath. Ephe. 2.3.
  - he is but a beast. Ier. 10.14.
150 For a man to glorie or attribute anie praise to himselfe in anie good attempts it is
- Vanitie:
- Arrogancie:
- Iniquitie:
  - Because of himselfe he cannot think a good thought, much lesse doo a good deed, 2. Cor. 3.5.
  - Because he attributeth that to himselfe which is proper to GOD: for euerie good and perfect gift commeth from aboue. Iam. 1.17.
  - Because he doth not acknowledge the giuer thankfullie: for all praise and glorie is to be giuen to God. Colos. 3.17. Herod by abridging God of his glory came to a most miserable end. Acts. 12.23.
[Page]151 This may abate the hie aspiring mind of man.
- His birth being sinfull. Eccl. 10.9
- His life being miserable. Eccl. 10.9
- His body being worms meat. Eccl. 10.9
152 Euerie man must haue a godlie care to liue in this world.
- Because GOD hath commanded he should labour sixe daies. Exo. 20.9.
- Because he is worse than an infidell that prouideth not for his houshold. 1. Tim. 5.8.
- Because he may auoid the inconuenience of idlenes. 2. Thessa. 3.10. which bringeth much euill. Prouer. 12.11.
153 A good Christian ought to be
- Wise.
- Simple.
- Foolish.
  - wise, vnto that which is good. Rom. 16.19.
  - simple, concerning euill. Rom. 16.19.
  - foolish, in respect of this world. 1. Cor. 1.20.
154 Heretickes and erronious persons are verie dangerous to be permitted amongst godlie christians, considering
- Their condition:
- Their corruptiō:
- The season:
  - Because they thinke it not enough to erre and doo euill themselues, except they drawe others with them, as appeareth in Esa. 30.10. Wisd. 14.21.
  - Because by cōtinuance they will defile manie. Hebr. 12.15. For a little leauen leaueneth the whole lūpe. 1. Cor. 5.7.
  - Because in these latter times many shall giue heede to Spirits of errour, and doctrine of diuels. 1. Tim. 4.1.
[Page]155 Wicked men are verie fitlie compared in the Scriptures
- to thornes;
- to chaffe;
- to tares;
  - Because they be as prickes to procure hurt to the godlie.
  - Because as the winde doth scatter the chaffe, so shall they be soone cut off from the face of the earth.
  - Because as tares are to bee bound in bundels & burnt, so shall they be in hell fire.
156 Wicked men are called by sundrie names, and compared in the Scriptures
- to Foxes;
- to Dogges;
- to beastes;
  - Because they are subtill in vndermining, & doing of mischiefe: in so much as the Church requireth to haue the foxes takē awaie. Cant. 2.15.
  - Because they are currish in controlling, and barking against all goodnes. Hereof Paule willeth the Phillip. to beware of dogges. Phil. 3.2
  - Because they are prophane in their liues, and degenerate frō their kinde worse than beasts. So Paule complaineth that hee fought with beastes at Ephesus after the manner of men. 1. Cor. 15.32.
157 The wicked and vngodlie are not to be
- Supported purposelie:
- Accompanied willinglie:
- Condemned vtterlie:
  - Because it is abomination before God to iustifie the wicked. Prouer. 17.15.
  - Because it is dangerous, for hee that toucheth pitch shall be defiled. Eccle. 13.1.
  - Because the Lord wil haue mercie on whom he will, and when he please. Rom 9.15.
[Page]158 These sayings maie terrifie such as attempt any euill.
- The face of the Lord is against him. 2. Pet. 3.12.
- Tribulation and anguish shall be vppon his soule. Rom. 2.9.
- There shall be no ende of plagues to him. Prouer. 24.20.
159 God tempteth no man to euill, but we are drawne to it
- By the diuell, who watcheth to worke our ouerthrowe.
- By our owne concupiscence to consent to his suggestions.
- By vicious companie and ill perswasions of others when we be seduced.
160 The Diuell will vndermine vs in our musings, if we take not great heed, for in them Barn.
- He talketh with vs wittilie.
- He eggeth vs cunninglie.
- Hee deceiueth vs craftelie.
whom if we resist by faith, the Lord will
- Ouerlook vs fighting.
- Succour vs fainting.
- Crowne vs ouercomming.
161 The Diuells haue knowledge after a sort: for
- They beleeue there is a God, and feare and tremble. Iam. 2.19.
- They can pleade Scripture for their owne purpose. Matth. 4.6.
- They acknowledge Christes comming to iudgement. Matth. 8.29.
162 The Diuell hath three euill properties, he is
- Subtill
- Strong
- Cruell
  - as a Serpent:
  - as a Lyon:
  - as a Tiger:
    - For hee can transforme himselfe into many shapes (yea into an Angell of light) and vse manie shifts to deceiue withall.
    - For hee is not so busie in seeking daylie for his pray, as he is forcible to resist where he assaulteth.
    - For where hee hath any enterance at all, he will neuer rest vntill he bringeth to confusion.
[Page]163 The Diuell vsed three pollicies to tempt Christ in the wildernes, perswading him
- To distrust in God.
- To the desire of riches and honor.
- To a vain cōfidence of himselfe.
Beza. Mat. 20.
Wee haue 3. cruell foes that fight against the spirit in this life, the
- Flesh.
- World.
- Diuell.
164 The fiercest foe in this fight is the Diuell: whō wee may expell with these three weapons.
- Faith.
- Praier.
- the word of God.
165 We ought not to followe the lustes of the flesh, but leade our liues holilie. Beza. 1. Pet. 2.11.
- Because those lusts although they flatter vs, yet they cease not to fight against our saluation. 2. Cor. 10.3.
- Because we are citizens in heauen, and therefore ought to leade our liues thereafter, although we be strangers here.
- Because the glorie of God is greatlie set foorth by that meanes, whilest by example of our honest life, euen the most prophane men are brought vnto God, and submit themselues vnto him.
166 There are many walk in this world, (saith Paul.) Phil 3.19.
- Whose God is their bellie.
- Whose glorie is their shame.
- Whose end is damnation.
The whole world lieth in wickednes 2. Ioh. 5.19.
The wretchednes of this world, made
- Salomon say
- Iob say
- Paule say
  - 167 The day of death is better than the day one is borne. Eccle. 7 3.
  - My soule is cut off though I liue. Iob. 10.1.
  - I desire to bee loosed from this life. Phil. 1.23.
[Page]168 What should we so accompt of this world, seeing
- The fashion of it goes awaie. 1. Cor. 7.31.
- The wisedome of it is mere foolishnes. Iob. 37
- The amitie of it is enmitie with God. Ia. 4.4
Vse this world as though you vsed it not, saith Paule? 1. Cor. 7.
169 These 3 things may withdrawe a man from desiring long life in this world.
- The wretchednes of his life.
- The grieuousnes of his sinnes.
- The greatnes of his accompt.
  - because it is but a continual temptation and full of miserie.
  - because they will more increase by cōtinuance.
  - because it wilbe the more fearefull at the yeelding vp.
170 The godlie desire to be out of this world:
- Because it is variable and nothing but vanitie.
- Because of the innumerable euills they are subiect to.
- Because they long to be cloathed with the heauenlie habit.
171 Life is verie sweete, and so sweete, that it hath prouoked the godlie to prolong the safetie of it, by shifts.
- Dauid doubting of euill dealing, fained himselfe mad to saue his life. 1. Sam. 21.13.14.
- Paule perceiuing their crueltie that would kill him, had rather in the night bee let downe in a basket, than abide. Acts 9.25.
- Peter fearing death, did forsweare his master. Iohn. 18.27.
172 The faithfull and godlie in this world doo dailie
- Fight,
- Faint,
- Fall,
by reason of their
- Aduersarie.
- Infidelitie.
- Infirmitie.
Yet they shall not be cast away. Psal. 37.24.
173 These 3. things are worthie to be considered.
- He that liueth best doth dailie sinne.
- He is happie that hath grace to repent.
- He is blessed to whom God imputeth no sin.
[Page]174 Although euery man is a sinner, yet euerie sinne is not of like consideration: for some sinne
- of Ignorance,
- of Infirmitie,
- of Malice,
  - as Paule did. 1. Tim. 1.13.
  - as Dauid did. 2. Sam. 11.2. &c.
  - as Nebuchad-nezzer did. Dan. 3.1.
Euerie sinner must beware of these three things, of
- procrastination,
- presumption,
- prouocation,
  - 175 In delaying the time of repentance. Matth. 24.50
  - In sinning still vpon hope. Rom. 6.1.
  - In sinning obstinatlie against the holie Ghost.
Sinne is nothing els, but
- A sweet poyson.
- A flattering death.
- A destructiō of the soule.
176 wherof there be two sorts.
- Original.
- Actuall.
Adam did further his fall, and increase his sinne in the garden three waies.
- By ambition,
- By hypocrisie,
- By impenitencie,
  - 177 because he thought to be as God knowing good from euill Gen. 3.6.
  - because hee hid the cause of his nakednes, which was the breach of Gods commandements. Gen. 3.10.
  - because hee was so farre from acknowledging his transgression, that he burdened God with his fault, in that hee had giuen him a wife. Gen. 3.12.
It appeareth by this that sinne is
- Excerable,
- Detestable,
- Intollerable,
  - 178 because it repented the Lord that he had made man on the earth. Gen. 6.6.
  - because hee destroyeth dumme creatures for our cause. Zephan. 1. vers. 3.
  - because hee would not spare his onelie sonne for our sinnes.
[Page]179 It is an exceeding comfort to a Sinner, to consider
- That God is as well a father as a Lord.
- That Christ is as well a Sauiour as a Iudge
- That the Scripture include as well a Gospell as a Law.
180 Sinners should not dispaire of Gods mercie, if they did but perceiue his goodnes which apeareth vnto them
- By his readines in calling,
- By his worthines in sparing,
- By his vnwillingnes in striking,
  - before they crie (saith the Lord) I will answere, and whilest they are yet thinking what to speake I will heare. Esa. 65.24.
  - he maketh as though he sawe not the sins of men, because they should amend. Wisd. 11.20.
  - he taketh no pleasure in the destruction, but in the cōuersion of sinners. Ezek. 18.23.
181 What greater comfort can sinners haue, sith Christ himselfe saith,
- Aske and ye shall haue.
- Seeke and ye shall finde.
- Knock & it shalbe opened vnto you.
I stande at the dore & knock, &c. Apoc. 3.20.
182 He that wil obtaine mercie by true repentance,
- Must acknowledge his sinnes sorowfullie with the prodigall sonne.
- Must shewe a heartie contrition for the same, and loath them.
- Must do good workes worthie amendment afterward. Asts. 26.20.
[Page]He that is fullie perswaded of the forgiuenes of his sinnes, it behoueth him to remember these three things.
- the mercie of God.
- the subtiltie of Sathan.
- the frailtie of himselfe.
  - 183 That he be thankfull vnto him, for his gratious goodnesse shewen vnto him, by remitting his offences, & receiuing him into his fauor.
  - That hee watch and praie continuallie, for the diuell goeth about like a roaring Lyon seeking whō hee maie deuoure. 1. Pet. 5.8.
  - That seeing his own infirmities hee may the rather depende vpon God, & craue his mercie to increase his faith and strengthē his weaknes, or els he shal not be able to withstād the opposite euills, he is subiect to.
God sheweth himselfe to all his people.
- Merciful
- Good
- Iust
  - to the elect,
  - to the reprobat,
  - to both of them
    - 184 In pardoning their sinnes.
    - Albeit they cannot feele the sweete comfort of the same.
    - In giuing iudgement.
[Page]185 The Lord wil not reiect the suite of a Sinner, neither accept of it, vnlesse in asking, hee hath a special regard of these three things.
- Of the time.
- Of the manner.
- Of the end.
  - For the Lord will not bee found at all times, but requireth oportunitie. Hereof faith the Prophet Esai, seeke the Lord while hee may be found, & cal vpon him while he is nere Esai. 55.6. The fiue foolish virgins cōming too late were excluded. Matth. 25.12.
  - For the Lord will not onlie haue such as call vpō him depart from iniquitie, but wil also haue their praiers proceed frō the verie hart. Then shalt thou call (saith the same Prophet to the hypocrites) and the Lord shall answere, thou shalt crie and he shall say, here I am. Esai. 58.9.
  - For God requireth not only importunitie of vs in asking; as appeareth by the woman of Canaan. Matth. 15.28. but also respecteth the end of our requestes, in asking according to his will, otherwise wee maie aske and receiue not, because wee aske amisse to consume it on our lustes. Iam. 4.3.
[Page]186 Hee that will reclaime a sinner must obserue three things in handling of him, which the Apostle S. Peter practised with the Iewes. Acts. 3.13, 14, 15, 17, 29.
- Demonstration of the matter.
- Reprehension of the offence.
- Exhortation to the sinner.
  - In shewing him (by the word of God) it is a sinne, that it may so appeare vnto him: whereby he may the better acknowledge it before God.
  - In reproouing him (by the iudgements of GOD pronounced against the same) that hee may both heare the punishment he hath worthelie deserued, and also thereby be the more terrified from attempting euill.
  - In perswading him (by the promises of Gods mercie) that he may not onelie bee driuen from dispaire, but also by that meanes bee drawne to amendement.
187 The same notable example of Manasses in his conuersion, doth minister singuler matter to euerie Sinner, wherein he may note three speciall causes for his comfort.
- 1. That GOD will punish the wicked that he intendeth to saue: that by this meanes they may seeke him by repentance, according to that same saying of the Psalmist. When he slew them, they sought him, and returned and sought God earlie. Psal. 78.34.
- 2. That the mercie of GOD is verie great, who although he will not suffer sinne to passe vnpunished, yet hee is readie to forgiue, though it be verie grieuous, as he hath promised by the Prophet Esaias to such as heartilie repent. Esai. 5.7, 8, 9.
- 3. That those whom GOD hath thus called, are not to returne to their sinnes, as the dogge to his vomite, but as becommeth newe borne children, to liue in holines and righteousnes all the daies of their life. Luke. 1.75.
[Page]188 The manifold examples in the Scriptures of the falling and rising of the godlie, were done of God (amongst other considerations) to this end,
- For the glorie of himselfe:
- For the good of them:
- For the profite of others:
  - Because he will haue his power knowne to preuaile aboue his Creatures, that it is hee that can make them rise and fall at his good pleasure.
  - Because he wil haue their owne imperfections & infirmities appeare vnto them, what they are of them-selues, if hee doth faile them but a little, to the ende they should not presume of themselues, but altogether depend vppon his prouidence and mercie.
  - Because such as bee almost drowned in the deapth of their sinnes, should not fall into desperation, cōsidering the verie elect haue offended most horriblie, but that they should bee incouraged therby to call for grace: seeing his hād is not yet shortned, but that he can helpe others as hee did those. Esai. 59.1.
[Page]189 Euerie particuler example is not sufficient to prooue or establish a generall doctrine, for then wee might beleeue 3. things lawfull, which are not to be allowed.
- That women might minister the Sacramēts, because Zipporah did circumcise her sonne Exod. 4 25.
- That wee ought to praie for the dead, because Iudas did so 2. Mac. 12.44.
- That wee may desperatlie kill our selues, because Razis did so (whō the author of the Maccha. much commendeth.) 2. Maccha. 14.41.
190 God sometimes suffereth his seruants, yea the most godlie, to bee vexed with Sathan.
- That they should not be puffed vp with any presumption of themselues.
- That they may be made perfect by that continuall exercise. 1. Cor 12.9.
- That they ought the more earnestlie to be instant in praier.
191 God trieth his children many waies in this world, sometimes
- By prosperitie,
- By pouertie,
- By persecution
  - To see if they will repose more felicitie in their goodes, than in him that gaue them, as he did by Abrahā in offering his sonne. Gen. 22.1.2.
  - To see if they wil not as patientlie depart from their goods, as he was willing to bestow them: as he did by Iob, by taking away all he had. Iob. 1.
  - To see if they will rather denie him, than die in his defence: as hee did by manie Prophets, Apostles, and godlie Martirs.
[Page]192 God keepeth his children commonlie in this world sparinglie.
- That they may not be too proud with prosperitie.
- That by this meanes they may the better fee their owne miserie.
- That thereby they may the rather depend on his mercie.
193 The godlie think that day ill spent, wherein they
- Do nothing
- Say nothing
- Think nothing
that may make
- To the glorie of God.
- To the comfort of themselues.
- To the edifying of others.
194 Tribulations & afflictions are to the godlie and faithfull
- a Confirmation of Gods loue.
- a Probatiō of their faith & patience.
- a Purgatiō of their liues:
  - Because he will not suffer them to bee condemned with the world, and therfore hee chastiseth those he loueth. Hebr. 12.6. Iob. 5.17.
  - Because he will see if they will stand as strict to him now, as they promised in prosperitie; not that God is ignorant of the issue, but because hee would haue it appeare to others, that he doth crown such with his glorie as continue constant. Mat. 24.13.
  - Because hee vseth these crosses to make them remēber their miserable estate, that by these meanes they may bee made perfect against the daie of restauration.
[Page]195 The godlie do reioyce in tribulations, knowing that, Rom. 5.3.
- Tribulation bringeth forth patience.
- Patience, experience:
- Experience, hope:
and hope maketh not ashamed.
196 The afflictions of the godlie differ from the wicked: Beza. 1. Pet. 4
- Because the godlie communicate with Christ in their afflictions, and therfore shall in time also be partakers of his glorie.
- Because in suffering these crosses, their adoption is sealed in them by the spirit of GOD, although the infidels thinke farre otherwise, who in afflicting the godlie blaspheme God.
- Because they are not afflicted for their euill doings, but for righteousnes sake, which ministreth vnspeakable ioye to them.
197 The faithfull in their afflictions haue this confidence in God.
- That hee will lay no more vppon them than he will make them able to beare. 1. Cor. 10.13.
- That hee will deliuer them out of their troubles in a good time.
- That hee will giue them a Crowne of life in the end. Apoc. 2.10.
198 Such as suffer affliction may take comfort by the consideration of these sayings.
- Wee must by manie afflictions enter the kingdome of heauen. Acts. 14.22.
- All that liue godlie in Christ shall suffer persecution. 2. Tim. 3.
- All the afflictions in this life are not counted worthie the glorie of the life to come. Rom. 8.18.
[Page]199 Afflictions are verie necessarie for the godlie, Beza. Iam. 1.3.4
- Because their faith is tried through afflictions, which ought to be most pure, for so it is behouable for them. Psal. [...]
- Because patience a farre passing & more excellent vertue is by this meanes ingendred in them.
- Because the Crosse is as it were the instrument wherwith God doth polish and fine them: therefore the worke and effect of afflictions, is the perfecting of them in Christ.
200 Patience is very expedient for Christians:
- That by it their faith may bee confirmed. Phil. 4.5.
- That thereby they may be made perfect and entire. Iam. 1.4.
- That after they haue done the will of God, they might receiue the promise. Heb. 10.36
201 There be three worthie examples of patience set forth vnto vs. The example
- of Christ himselfe, the onelie patterne of patience.
- of Iob, whose patience yee haue heard of. Ia [...]. 5 10.
- of the Prophets, whose patient examples appeare vnto vs.
202 These 3. points are required of the faithfull.
- That their talke be godlie.
- That Gods law be in their hart.
- That their life be vpright.
Psal. 37.30.31. &c.
203 There be three things very dangerous for the godlie.
- Prosperitie
  - of themselues:
  - of the wicked:
- Extremitie of affliction:
  - Because it maketh them to forget God. Hereof, saith Dauid, I said in my prosperitie I should not bee moued. Psal. 30.6.
  - Because it maketh thē dispute with God, thinking he doth not rightlie consider of them: as the same Prophet did. Psal. 73.13.
  - Because it maketh them dispaire of God, thinking bee would destroye them vtterlie. In so much as the same Psalmist burst foorth with these sayings. Stay thine anger frō me, that I may recouer my strēgth before I goe hence, and bee not. Psal. 39.13.
[Page]Cornelius was called a deuout man in 3. respects. Act. 10.2
- He feared God, with al his houshold.
- He gaue much almes to the people
- He praied to God continuallie.
204 And Iob a iust man likewise in 3. respects.
- He feared God. Iob. 1.
- He eschewed euil Iob. 1.
- Hee did good workes. Iob. 31.16.
205 He that will be acceptable to God, must be
- Iust in word.
- Vpright in deed.
- Vndefiled in thought.
Barnard.
206 The iust do reioyce at the punishment of the wicked:
- Because therby God sheweth himselfe Iudge of the world, and by this meanes continueth his honor and glorie. Psal. 94.2.
- Because hereby he sheweth he hath care ouer his children, in that hee punisheth their enemies. Psal. 41.11.
- Because by their example others may feare, and be reformed, in some measure. Deut. 17.13.2. Thes. 3.14.
207 We ought to loue and do good, to our enemies.
- Because Christ himselfe did so; whose example we ought to imitate. Luk. 3.24.
- Because it is not praise worthie, to loue where we are beloued; for so doo the hypocrites and publicans. Matth. 5.46.
- Because it is our duetie not onelie to suffer iniurie, but also to do good Rom. 12.17.20.
208 Such as continue in malice and hatred, should consider
- Their praiers are vnprofitable, if they aske mercie and forgiue not Mark. 11.25.
- The Lords Supper is prophaned, if they receiue it vnworthelie. 1. Cor. 11.27.
- They themselues are but manslaiers, if they liue not in charitie. 1. Iohn 3.13, 15.
209 These three things (saith the sonne of Syracke) my soule loueth.
- Vnitie of brethren.
- Loue of neighbours.
- Agreement of man and wife.
Eccle 25.1.
[Page]210 Euerie one ought to knowe how farre, and in what manner he ought to loue
- A mutual friend,
- A malitious foe,
- A manifest sinner,
  - in God:
  - for the loue of God:
  - for humanitie sake.
    - because in louing otherwise he shall offend GOD: for hee that loueth father or mother, (much lesse a cōmon friend) more than me (saith our Sauiour Christ) is not worthie of me. Matth 10.37.
    - because hee cannot loue God whom he hath not seene, if hee loueth not his brother that he hath seene. 2. Iohn. 4.20.
    - because wee ought to haue a consideration of his soule, though wee haue a detestation of his sinnes: according to the counsell of the Apostle, who willeth vs to count such a one, not as an enemie, but admonish him as a brother. 2. Thess. 3.15.
211 There be three things prohibited, which ought not to be vsed of anie, to their verie enemies.
- To enuie their estate:
- To reioyce at their fall:
- To render euill for euill:
  - because enuie turneth to a mans owne euill in the ende, according as it is written, no enuious persons or such like shall enter heauen. Gala. 5.21.
  - because it is dangerous, lest the Lord see it (as Salomon saith) & it displease him, and hee turne his wrath from him, to be auenged on thee. Prouer 24.18.
  - because it is the part of a good Christian, not to vse the meanes to further a mischiefe, but to ouercome euil with good. Ro. 12.20.
[Page]212 Dauid being both a Prince and a Prophet, sheweth wherein a Kings charge stādeth.
- To prouide faithfullie for his people.
- To guide them by counsell.
- To defend them by power.
Psal. 78.72. &c.
213 Such as are called to be Rulers and Magistrates ought to be
- Men of courage, fearing God. Exod. 18.21.
- Men dealing truelie, hating couetousnes. Exod. 18.21.
- Men of wisedome, and vnderstanding Deuteronomie 1.13.
214 Such as intend euill attempts, or vse any rebellious meanes or mischief against Gods annointed, Kings and Princes; should remē ber the end of these 3. examples.
- Dauid hauing but priuily cut off the lappe of King Sauls garment, was touched vehementlie in heart for it 1. Sam. 24.5, 6.
- Absalom hauing betraied King Dauid his father, came to an vntimely death, for he was hanged by the haire of his head vpon an Oke. 2. Sam. 18.14.
- Achitophel being a Coadiutor, in preferring the lewd practises of Absalom against his father; when hee perceiued his counsell preuailed not, he went desperatlie and hong himselfe. 2. Sam. 17.23.
215 He that will vse reuerent obedience to his Prince, must be verie carefull to consider, how dangerous it is to offend
- in thinking euill:
- in vttering euill:
- in committing euill:
  - for the soule of the heauē shal carrie the voyce, and that which hath winges shall declare the matter. Eccle. 10.20.
  - for it is written, Thou shalt not speake euill of the Ruler of thy people. Exod. 22.28.
  - for if the Lord doth detest the euill intent, and forbid filthie speaches, how much more doth he abhorre the act of euill, and wil punish the malefactors.
[Page]216 There be 3. points commendable and necessarie for him that is in authoritie.
- To haue the fauour of the people.
- To procure their wealth.
- To bee gentle and louing toward them.
Ester. 10.3. &c
217 Good and godlie Magistrates ought to be obeyed in respect of
- Conscience:
- Feare:
- Necessitie:
  - Because they are ordained of GOD: whose will is, they should be obeyed. Rom. 13.5.
  - Because they are his ministers, to take vengeance on all that do euill. Rom. 13 4.
  - Because where no rule is, all things goe to ruine Iudg. 16.6.
218 Herein consists the whole duetie of Magistrates.
- To defend and preserue the godlie. 1. Pet. 2.14.
- To bridle and punish the wicked. 1. Pet. 2.14.
- To iudge righteouslie betweene both. Deut. 16.18.
219 Magistrates ought continuallie to remember,
- That the higher they are placed, the sorer is their triall. Wisd. 6.8.
- That their negligence in suffering euill is their iniquitie.
- That the ill example of themselues is a double sinne.
220 There be three things not tollerable in anie Magistrate.
- Partialitie
- Crueltie
- Briberie
  - in respecting persons:
  - in ministring iustice:
  - in detayning right:
    - for that is abomination in the sight of GOD. Leu. 19.15. Deut. 1.17.
    - for such measure as they mete, shalbe met to thē againe. Matth. 4.24.
    - for fire shall consume the houses of bribes Iob. 15.
221 Hee that will bee master ouer a godlie houshold, must knowe his owne duetie to his familie, as
- Wife.
- Children.
- Seruants
and how to vse them being
- well disposed.
- euill inclined.
[Page]222 The duetie of the housholder, is
- To knowe the state of his flocke. Pro. 27.23.
- To instruct them in the feare of God. Psal. 78.5.
- To prouide carefullie for his familie. 1. Tim. 5.8.
223 The husband ought to haue a speciall honest care and loue to his wife in 3. respects:
- Because she commeth of his owne flesh: and therefore, who will bee bitter to his owne bodie.
- Because they are the weaker vessels, and therefore who will not beare with their infirmities.
- Because she was made as a comforter to man. & therfore he is worse than a beast that wilbe cruel to her.
224 There be three causes should mooue and make the wife obey, honor, and submit herselfe to her husband.
- The prioritie of mans creation.
- The superioritie of his placing.
- The iniquitie, of the womans procuring.
  - because Adam was first formed, then Eue afterwarde for his sake. 1. Tim. 2.13.
  - because man was made to beare rule: whereunto Paule verie well alludeth and saith: that as Christ is the head of the Church, so is the man of the woman. Ephes. 5.23.
  - because the man was deceiued by the womā, wherevpon God enioyned her, (amongst other) this punishment of subiection. 1 Tim. 2.14. Gen. 3.16.
225 Parents must euer haue a great regard of their children, in obseruing three things.
- That they bring them vp carefullie in the information of God, least they growe graceles. Ephe. 6.4.
- That they bridle them discretly, while they are yong, least they grieue them when they are old. Prouer. 22.6.
- That they prouoke thē not too rigorously at anie time, least they discourage them. Col. 3.21.
[Page]226 Such children as are obedient to their parents, shall haue this benefite:
- They shall liue long vpon the earth. Ephe. 6.1, 2, 3.
- They shall prosper in all their proceedings. Ephe. 6.1, 2, 3.
- They shall haue ioye of their owne children. Eccle. 3.6.
227 Children ought to obey their parents,
- by the law of God.
- by the course of Nature
- by the rule of Reason.
So it bee in the Lord. Mat. 10. [...]7.
Masters should continuallie remember,
- 228 That they haue a master aboue that seeth all.
- That they shal receiue for the wrong they offer, of him who respecteth no persons.
- That they bee as carefull to redresse their owne faults, as readie to reproue their seruants escapes.
229 Herein consists the duetie of Seruants,
- To obey their masters in the Lord, without murmuring.
- To doo their duetie in singlenes of heart, without eye seruice. Ephe. 6.6.
- To suffer patientlie rebukes and chastisements, without resisting.
230 Riches oftentimes be the meanes to cause
- Impietie:
- Securitie:
- Miserie.
As appeares by the parable of
- The yong man. Mar. 10.22
- The rich man. Luke. 12.
- Diues and Lazarus. Luk. 16
231 Wicked wealthie worldlings should do well to consider continuallie of these places.
- Amos. 6. vers. 1.
- Esai. 65. vers. 13.
- Iam. 5. vers. 1.
A rich man shall hardlie enter the kingdome of heauen. Matth. 20.
[Page]232 Such as gather their goods by vsurie, briberie, extortion, or such like vnlawfull meanes, what followeth.
- They gather them for such (as Salomon saith) as will be good to the poore. Prouer. 28.8.
- The rust of their gold & siluer (as Iames faith) shall be a witnes against them, and eate their flesh as it were fire. Iam. 5.3.
- They lie in graue like sheepe (as Dauid saith) & death gnaweth vpon them. Psal. 49.14.
233 Although worldlings do make their God of their goods, yet the iust man doth but esteeme
- Gold and siluer to be coloured earth; yea but dung. Phil. 3.8.
- Worldlie wealth and voluptuous feeding, to be filth and famine.
- Dignitie & delight, to be smoake which the ayre consumeth sodainlie.
234 Riches are good in this respect.
- If wee can vse and bestowe them to that end they are giuen vs.
- If we can as willinglie leaue them, as receiue them.
- If we set not our hearts on them, as they increase. Psal. 62.10.
It is a vaine thing for a man to hunt so greedilie after worldlie goods, or take such great delight in gathering:
- 235 Because hee shall beare nothing with him when he dieth. Psal. 49.17.
- Because hee cannot prolong his life with them, though he hath abundance. Luk. 12.15.
- Because they will not auaile him in the daie of wrath. Prouer. 11.4.
236 Couetousnes is contemptible in any, especiallie in such, who God hath sent plentie vnto:
- Because it is a plague to a rich man to want a liberall heart. Eccle. 6.2, &c.
- Because it is the root of al euil. 1. Tim. 6.10.
- Because it will bee their owne destruction in the end. Ephe. 5.5.
237 Riches should not make a mā high minded, if he did think vpō god,
- Because he is but his steward ouer thē for a time.
- Because hee can impouerish him as hee did Iob. 1.12.
- Because hee can punish him, as hee did Herod. Acts 12.23.
[Page]238 God hath chosen in this world
- Foolish things to confound the wise. 1. Cor. 1.27.
- Weake thinges to confound the mightie. 1. Cor. 1.27.
- Vile things, & things which are not, to bring to naught things that are. 1. Cor. 1.27.
239 Although begging be a miserable life, yet we must not despise the poore:
- For hee that despiseth them, despiseth him that made them. Pro. 17.5.
- For God hath made them as his instruments for the triall of our hearts and charitie. Deut. 25.21.
- For God hath chosen the poore in this world, that they should bee rich in faith & heires of his kingdom. Ia. 2.5
240 Aduersitie and pouertie, is oftentimes sent of God.
- For triall of our faith,
- For amendmēt of our liues,
- For neglect of our vocation
it appear.
- by Iob, whose satietie of substance was taken awaie. Iob. 1.
- by the prodigal sonne, who by these crosses was reclaimed.
- by Salomons saying: Loue not sleepe, lest thou come vnto pouertie. Pro. 20 13.
241 We ought to giue to the poore
- For the glorie & honor of God Prouer. 8.9.
- For good example to others, Matth. 5.16.
- For a signe of the sinceritie of our profession. Iam. 2.18.
Giue for
- Commandement sake.
- Necessitie sake.
- Nature sake.
242 It may appeare vnto vs by way of comparison we ought to giue to the poore, for
- If a good man will haue pitie on his beast, how much more ought wee to respect a Christian. Prouer. 12.10.
- If wee ought to lay downe our liues for our brethrē, how much more ought we to relieue the with our goods 1. Ioh. 3.16.
- If a factor ought to dispose his goodes where his temporall master pleaseth, how much more ought we to distribute thē where our eternal master appointeth.
[Page]243 He that giueth to the poore, must bestowe his beneuolence
- Secretlie,
- Liberallie,
- Cheerefully,
  - without ostentation. Mat. 6.2.
  - according to his abilitie. Ro. 12.8
  - without grudging. Eccle. 35.10.
244 This assurance hath he that giueth to the poore,
- He lendeth to the Lord. Prouer. 19.17.
- He shall not lacke. Prouer. 28.27.
- He shal not want his reward. Matth. 25.40.
245 The poore ought rather to be hidden to feastes than the rich:
- because such haue most need. Mat. 25.
- because they can make no recōpence. Mat. 25.
- because it is most acceptable to God. Mat. 25.
246 Feasting is not amisse, so it be vsed
- In remembrance of Gods benefites. Nehe. 8
- For the maintenāce of mutual friendship. Nehe. 8
- Towards the reliefe of the poore. Nehe. 8
We would bee more mindful of the poore, if we did but remember how dangerous it is
- To hide our eyes from them.
- To stoppe our eares at their crie.
- To shew no mercie at all.
247 Such shall
- haue many curses. Pro. 28.27.
- crie and not bee heard. Prouer. 21.13.
- haue merciles condemnation. Iam. 2.13.
248 Pure religon consists in this:
- To visite the fatherles and widowes in aduersitie. Barnard.
- To followe the example of Christ. Barnard.
- To keepe thy selfe vnspotted of the world. Barnard.
249 Such as will bee perfect Christians in religion, ought not to be
- Hot,
- Cold,
- Luke-warme.
but zealous professors. Reuel. 3.19.
250 It is is very dangerous to deale craftelie in this world,
- because it greatlie offendeth God, who is the author of truth.
- because it defraudeth a mans neighbour with a shewe of honest meaning.
- because it destroieth the deceiuer in the end. Pro. 19
[Page]251 Hypocrites may well iuggle with the world, but they cannot deceiue these three.
- God.
- Death.
- the Diuell.
  - For he seeth their secrets, and will one day reueale all.
  - For he commeth of a sodaine, and will destroy them with all.
  - For hee waites for their soules to reward them for all.
252 An hypocrite is resembled to these 3. things. Barn.
- A Sheepe in skinne.
- A Foxe in subtiltie.
- A Wolfe in crueltie.
  - He talketh smoothlie.
  - He intendeth craftelie.
  - He attempteth villanie.
We be to you hypocrites.
253 Truth is almost excellent treasure, and worthie to be
- Honoured.
- Imbraced:
- Aduanced:
  - because it ouercommeth all things.
  - because it defendeth all things.
  - because it in dureth for euer.
254 Such as delight in lying, should but remember the
- A [...]or of it.
- Euill of it.
- End of it.
  - I [...] is a [...]led of the diuels sowing.
  - It is abomination before the Lord.
  - It procureth sorow to his owne soule at last.
255 This discommoditie commeth of lying.
- When one doth accustome it he shall seldome leaue it.
- When he saith troth, he shall hardlie bee beleeued.
- When he is knowne to be such a one, the better sort will abhorre him.
256 He is happie that in his communication hath an eye in feare
- to Gods maiestie:
- to his brothers frailtie:
- to his own safetie:
  - because it is fearfull to fall into his hands. Hebr. 10.13.
  - because it is the easiest thing of a thousand to offend him.
  - because he must giue accompt of euerie idle word.
257 Our communication ought to be yea and nay, yet we may lawfullie sweare
- For the glorie and worship of God. Esai. 19.
- For cōfirmation of truth & equitie. Heb. 6.16.
- For discharge of our conscience, being lawfullie called.
258 The Magistrate maie lawfullie require an oth: so it be done for the maintenance of
- Iustice:
- Iudgement:
- Truth:
but wee ought not to sweare
- vainlie,
- lightly,
- rashlie,
  - when there is no cause at all.
  - vpon euerie small occasion.
  - without good cō sideration.
[Page]259 Who shall inherite heauē (saith Dauid.)
- He that hath cleane hands and a pure heart.
- He that hath not lift vp his mind to vanitie.
- He that hath not sworne to deceiue his neighbour.
Psal. 24.
260 The mischiefes that insue of Lecherie are manie, if we conferre the beginning with the end. Barn.
- At first it tickleth the flesh with touching.
- Afterward it poysoneth the minde with filthie delights.
- And last of al by cōsenting to sinne, and willingnes to worke wickednes withall, both bodie and soule are ouercome.
261 The sinne of Lecherie is the pleasantest to the diuell.
- Because it hurteth both bodie and soule.
- Because he was neuer touched with it, being a spirit and no bodie.
- Because it bringeth on a heape of other sinnes withall.
262 The lecherous man in his life is three waies tormented.
- with the heate of the harlot.
- with the paine of his hurt.
- with the worme of his owne conscience.
263 The sonne of Syracke saith there are 3. things which his soule hateth.
- A poore man that is proud.
- A rich man that is a lier.
- An old adulterer that doteth.
Eccle. 25.
264 There be three speciall reasons, that fornication should be eschewed. Beza. 1. Cor. 6.18.
- Because it defileth the bodie with a peculiar kinde of filthines.
- Because a fornicator is sacriligious, for that our bodies are consecrated to God.
- Because wee ought both in bodie and soule to serue him, who hath saued vs.
This brieflie is to be obserued in a whore. Prouer. 5.
- She brings a man to a morsell of bread.
- She hunts for the precious life of him.
- She leades him the hie waie to hell.
265 She is compared
- to a dogge.
- to a sowe.
- to dung.
Eccle. 26.
[Page]266 A whore is to be abandoned if it were but for these causes:
- Because God hath forbidden anie such to be suffered. Deut. 23.17.
- Because she increaseth the transgressors among men. Pro. 23.28.
- Because she enuieth honest and vertuous women. 2 Esd. 16.42.
267 There bee three things maie terrifie a theefe in his lewd attempts.
- The precept God hath set downe.
- The positiue lawe of this land.
- The importable iudgement to come.
that is,
- Thou shalt not steale. Exod. 20.
- Death of bodie.
- Destruction both of bodie and soule.
268 A theefe by following one (that is the diuell) he offendeth three.
- Hee displeaseth God,
- He hurteth his neighbor.
- He hateth his own soule,
  - by breaking his commandement.
  - by taking away his right.
  - by following sin. Pro. 29.
269 This inconuenience commeth of idlenes:
- When one is rooted in it, it will hardlie be remoued.
- Whē he hath the end of his lust it wilbe most lothsome.
- When he is so idle the diuell is most occupied.
270 There bee three things that grieued the wiseman.
- A man of warre that suffereth pouertie.
- Men of vnderstanding that are not set by.
- When one departeth from righteousnes to sinne.
Eccle. 26.29.
271 God punisheth his people for their sinnes with three kind of plagues, which commonlie goe together.
- Warre,
- Famine,
- Pestilence,
and where he blesseth, there followeth 3. benefites,
- Peace.
- Plentie.
- Salubritie.
272 Christian Souldiers fight but faintlie, if they want these weapons.
- The shield of faith
- The helmet of hope.
- The sword of the spirit.
Ephe. 6.
273 Euerie Christian Souldier hath three enemies to encounter with.
- The lewd affections of themselues. Iam. 4.1.
- The euill prouocations of the pleope.
- The daily suggestions of Sathan.
Ephe. 6.12.
[Page]274 There were three persons spared in the old lawe from going on warfare.
- He that was betrothed to a maide. Deut. 20.7.
- He that was but new maried. Deu. 24.5.
- He that was faint hearted. Deut. 20.8.
275 God sendeth raine, cold, heate, tempest, and such like oftentimes,
- To punish man.
- To profite the earth.
- To declare his fauour towards man.
Iob. 37.13. &c.
276 One may lawfullie eate flesh at all times, so it be done
- without scruple or doubting.
- without offence of our brother.
- without breach of godlie orders.
For euery creature of God is good, and nothing ought to be refused, if it be receiued with thankes-giuing. 1. Tim. 4.4.
277 Our meates are sanctified to vs by the word of God and praier. Beza. 1. Tim. 4.5.
- Because we confesse & acknowledge that God is the maker & giuer of those creatures which we vse.
- Because wee are of the number of those, who through Christes benefite, haue recouered that right ouer all creatures, which Adam lost by his fall.
- Because by our praiers, wee craue of the Lord that we may vse those meats with a good conscience which we receiue at his hands.
278 Such as by their doctrine will make difference of meates the same may be called diuellish or deceiptfull in three respects. Beza.
- Because the teachers of them make lawes of things which are not their owne: for GOD created the meates.
- Because they ouerthrowe with their decrees the end wherefore they were made of GOD, to wit, that we should vse them.
- Because by this meanes they robbe GOD of his glorie, who will bee honored in the vse of them.
[Page]280 Our behauiour ought to be vsed
- To our better, reuerentlie.
- To our equall, louinglie.
- To our vnderling, lowlie.
We ought to call
- our elder, father.
- our yonger brother.
- Euery man, our neibor.
281 Mariage was instituted for three ends.
- For a remedie against incontinencie.
- For the propagation of children.
- For the consolation of man and woman.
It is
- allowed of the Patriarkes.
- commended by the Prophets.
- followed of the Apostles.
Men are made chast three manner of waies. Matth. 19.12.
- by Nature,
- by Arte,
- by Grace,
  - Such as are so borne of their mothers bellie.
  - Such as bee made chast by men.
  - Such as haue made thēselues chast for heauen.
282 We haue great cause to reioyce at these daies more than our predecessors had:
- Because Christ hath made easie vnto vs, that importable yoke they were subiect too. Matth. 11.31.
- Because he hath brought vs the glad tidings of saluation, which they longed to see. Rom. 16.17.
- Because many Prophets and righteous men haue desired to see these daies. Matth. 13.17.
283 Although honest mirth be tollerable, yet foolish or excessiue mirth is
- Vaine:
- Wicked:
- Dangerous:
  - because such mirth shal be mingled with mourning, and the ende of such ioy is lamentation.
  - because thereby wee cleane forget the means that should make vs remēber our miserie. Eccle. 7.4.
  - because our Sauiour Christ saith, wo bee to them that now laugh, for they shall waile and weepe. Luke 6.25.
[Page]284 There be three kind of fooles.
- Such as are naturallie borne without wit, & those those (as Salomon saith) are a griefe to the father, & a heauines to her that bare them. Pro. 17.21, 25.
- Such as become fooles, and are so contented to be counted in this world, that they may bee wise in the world to come. 1. Cor. 3.18.
- Such as are giuen ouer to their owne lusts, and follow al kind of filthines; these are they whom Dauid calleth fooles, who lewdlie saie in their hearts (as they falslie thinke) there is no God. Psal. 53.1.
285 A wise man is noted and discerned three maner of waies.
- By discreet silence:
- By modest speach:
- By sober life:
  - 286 For (as Salomon saith) a foole by holding his peace is counted wise Prouer. 27.28. not that any should bee restrained of speach: but that they should obserue oportunitie in speaking. Hereof saith the Philosopher, Qui nescit tacere, nescit loqui.
  - For it is proper to fooles to bee full of friuolous talke: but hee that hath knowledge (saith the Wise man) spareth his words. Prouer. 17.27.
  - For he that is heauenlie wise indeed, will (as S. Iames saith) shew by conuersation his workes in meeknes of wisedome. Iam. 3.13.
287 Sicknes is verie necessarie for man:
- Because thereby he is put in minde of his owne frailtie. Eccle. 7.4.
- Because thereby he shall bee better incited to call vppon God. 2. King. 20.2.
- Because it is a testimonie vnto him of the loue of God. Hebr. 12 6.
288 He that is loath to frame himselfe to dye, especiallie in sicknes, doth shewe himselfe
- Vnnaturall:
- Vnwise:
- Wretched:
  - because he so little desires to be at home with his heauenlie father, considering hee is here but as a stranger and a pilgrime. Hebr. 11.13.
  - because hee taketh felicitie in the vanitie of this world, considering the fashion of it goes away. 1. Cor. 7.13.
  - because hee had rather still liue to augment his miserie, than frame himselfe by a godlie ende, to imbrace eternall blessednes.
[Page]289 In our sicknes we ought to remember
- To seeke to God to purge our sinnes, which are the chiefe cause of all our diseases.
- To vse the helpe of the Phisitian, as a meane by whom God worketh.
- To dispose our temporall goodes, where they may make most to his glorie that gaue them.
290 For a man to make his Will, in sicknes or health, it is
- Lawfull;
- Godlie;
- Necessarie;
  - because the Lord willed Hezekiah to put his house in order before he died 2. King, 20.1.
  - because his minde being quiet in worldlie matters, he shall the better applie it to heauenlie motiōs.
  - because a good stay being made, it shall cut off occasion of cōtention that may happen afterward
291 The mindes of men are verie mutable, and their opinions (especiallie such as be peruerse) are verie scrupulous to please: for
- He that did well, offended some, and yet was an Apostle. Paul. 2. Cor. 11.24.
- He that did worse, pleased many, and yet was but a Beast. Herod. Acts. 12.22.
- He that did best of all, could not please al, and yet was a God. Christ. Ioh. 10.20.
292 England hath 3. especiall causes to be continuallie thankful to God for,
- The free passage of the Gospell:
- The blessed time of Peace:
- The godly Gouernour thereof.
which
- Passage
- Peace,
- Prince,
the Lord for his mercie sake still
- prosper.
- preserue.
- protect.
Amen.

FINIS.

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