THE great Ambassadours of Kings and Princes in this inferiour World Command Respect and Reverence from all beholders.

And what innumerable multitudes are there, whose highest Ambition it is, to feed their Eyes in view­ing and beholding their goodly and comely Order, both in their access for Audience, and also in their re­tedure?

Here the Solemnity is more honoured, a greater Presence pro­mised unto the end of the World. Matth. 28.20. The very At­tendance more glorious in nature then our selves. Heb. 1.14.

The Place more beautiful and amiable, the things more rich and excellent, sublime and spiritual.

An inestimable treasure is now presented which excelleth all the Riches of the Earth, the unsearchable Riches of Christ. [...]. Riches that hath no footsteps, which cannot be traced out; that is the propriety of the Word.

Though we are men of like Passion with your selves, that Preach unto you, that ye should turn from Vanities unto the living God, which made Heaven and Earth, &c. Acts 14.15. for that you are no more able of your selves to hear God speaking to you immediately in his own Wisdom, then Israel, in whose eyes the glory of God was like devouring Fire, and they as stubble before him. Exod. 20.19.

Therefore let it content you, that you have this Heavenly Trea­sure, though in Earthen Vessels; that the Excellency of the Power may be of God, and not of us. 2 Cor 4.7.

And seeing it is the pleasure of the Almighty God to have it so for his own Glory, and your eternal Happiness, is it fit and ratio­nal for Dust and Ashes to Dispute, and to be angry with the Judge of all the Earth? Gen. 18.25.

And for poor Wormes to rebel against their Maker, at whose Pre­sence both Heaven and Earth doth tremble.

Here's Gods great Condescention: because of the weakness of our apprehension. And if there be humility of greatest Poverty, yet here is an attestation of preatest glory. That no man might be of­fended, but rather stand astonished with an holy admiration at the infinite grace, wisdom, mercy, and goodness of God.

First, That his own Son, God blessed for ever, should assume hu­mane nature to save us, to unite a Clod of Earth unto his Divine Person! That Christ should give this World so glorious, so mag­nificently great, and so happy a Visitation! Greater Condescention then if some great Prince should go into an Hospital to look on a lothsome diseased Creature.

Here's superabundant love of God in Jesus Christ, which tran­scends all the degrees of Comparison!

And then, that God should entreat, wooe, and beseech us by the Ministry of his Ambassadors, that we would save our selves from ever­lasting ruine. That God should look upon all the Children of men in their fallen lost sinful and miserable Condition, with such pity and compassion; who have made themselves liable to eternal Wrath, which they understand not, which they are not able to bear; That God out of his infinite grace and wisdom should find out, and pro­vide a way and means of Salvation: For the Children of men his professed Enemies.

In the words we have these particulars to be considered.

First, The Apostles illation, drawn from the Premisses, by which [Page 3] the Text hath his Coherence, with the precedent verses. And presents us with this instruction, That we are not bound to accept matters of Re­ligion, meely without all reason, and probable inducements.

Secondly, the assertion of the Subjects by plain Enunciation, We are Ambassadours.

Thirdly, the honourable Dignity of these Ambassadours, they are for Christ; Ambassadours of Christ.

Fourthly, the Authority of God the Father confirming this excel­lent Dignity, as though God did beseech you by us, and as if Christ himself stood by and prayed men, We pray you in Christs stead.

Fiftly, here is res considerata, & modus considerandi; The Gospel Embassie it self.

Secondly, the way and manner of Gospel Ministers delivering of Gods Message and Errand unto the People; and that not in a way of severity and rigour, but beseeching and intreating to be reconci­led to God

Now the Doctrinal truths which are to be Collected and deduced hence are these.

First that the Foundation of our eternal Salvation is laid by God in Christ. God was in Christ reconciling the World unto himself.

Secondly, Gods Ministers have their Commission from Heaven, they come in the Name of the great King of Heaven and Earth, and are his Commission-Officers.

Thirdly, that God who might come in flaming Fire to consume us in a moment, cometh to us in the greatest Mercy, Tenderness, and Condescention, Praying and Beseeching us to be reconciled unto him.

Fourthly, that God and Man are at a great distance.

Fiftly, Reconciliation unto God was the most glorious work that ever was wrought, and the most blessed word that ever was heard; But I must not think to grasp all these. But the truth that I intend to insist upon, is this: That it is the great Honour and Dignity of the Ministers of the Gospel to be the Ambassadours of Jesus Christ. But I will first speak something of their Duty: and then Secondly, of their Dignity. Thirdly, of mans reconciliation to God, in the Application.

The words of my Text, as you have heard, are an illative Con­clusion drawn from the Premises, vers. 19 there is set forth the Recon­ciliatiation on Gods part: He though Pars laesa; the Party greatly and grievously injured and offended (the greatness of an offence grow­ing [Page 4] from the dignity and excellency of the person offended; and this makes it Crimen laesa majestatis, so hainous and Capital, high Trea­son indeed against the Crown and Dignity of Heaven) yet contrives and designs this great work of Reconciliation.

God was in Christ reconciling the World unto himself; namely, by his Merit and Intercession; for as the greatness of the injury grows from the dignity of the person offended, because there the worth of the offended person is hurt, so the worth of him that makes satisfa­ction doth grow from him that makes satisfaction; because here the yielding of honour is looked into, which depends upon the Dignity of him that yields the honour.

And hath committed unto us the word of attonement or reconcili­ation. [...] shewing that a Mini­ster of the Gospel should have the Doctrine of Reconciliation first fixed and placed in his own heart, and so speak from his own heart to the hearts of others, and comfort others with those comforts wherewith he himself hath been comforted of God.

When a man is no stranger unto those things he delivereth unto others; how many are there who onely have a humane knowledge of divine things?

There is nothing more easie (saith Bishop Hall, Cent. 2. Med. 91.) then to say Divinity by rote, and to discourse of Spiritual matters from the Tongue or Pen of others; but to hear God speak it to the Soul, and to Feel the Power of Religion in our selves, and to express it out of the truth of experience within, is both rare and hard. All that we feel not in the matters of God is but hypocrisie, and there­fore the more we profess, the more we sin. Luther felt what he spake, and had experience of what he wrote; and being to, speak of our Justification by Faith in Christ, saith he, In my heart this one Article reigneth, even the Faith of Christ, from whom and unto whom all my divine studies have recourse to, and through continually.

Saith S. Paul [...]; and who is sufficient for these things? Who is sufficient for the ministry of Life? Who hath fit and particular qualifications for such places? for matters of such weighty and great importance, for so great a charge as is committed to them? If a man were to paint the Sun, or to limn out the na­ture of a Soul, who could instruct him what Colours he must use? It is not enough that men have publick vote for publick places, but they must have suitable Endowments. He that thinks to act for God, must have qualifications from God.

There must proceed a mission and Commission; or else whosoever runs abroad, had better have staid at home. 1 Tim. 3. The Apo­stle lays down their particular qualifications, who shall be fit for such places, and he would have us look to whom he hath qualified. That our most Reverend Bishops, most instructed in the Government of the Church, and most highly dignified in it, should take great heed whom they bless: Such as may know how to behave them­selves in the Church. This calling by man is not to be despised. For it is not enough, as Luther observes, for a man to have the Word and pure Doctrine, but he must also be assured of his Calling, and he that entreth without this certainty, entreth to no other end, but to kill and destroy. For God never prospereth the labour of them that are not called. And although they may teach some good and profitable matter, yet they edifie not. A Minister must be [...]. 1 Tim. 3.3. given to Hospitality, a lover or user of Hospi­tality, according to the Apostles exhortaion, as we have therefore op­portunity let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the Houshold of Faith. And also after the Example of our heavenly Father, who maketh his sun to shine on the evil and on the good, Matth. 5.45. And for that the common sort approve of friendship by profit. Non ex benedictis, sed ex benefactis.

But especially a Minister must be [...] apt to teach, ready to teach, ever ready prest to do any thing which the Lord hath given him in charge; to feed the Peoples Souls with divine meat, to ap­prove himself a Pastor after Gods own heart, ever labouring to imi­tate our Blessed Lord and Saviour, Matt. 5.2. who so opened his mouth that he taught the People the way of life and Salvation, and that with most admirable Wisdom, excellent Grace, singular Meekness, ardent Zeal, and Authority unusual, not respecting any mans person, so that never man spake like this man. Joh. 7.46.

And as God said to Moses Exod. 23.13. In all things that I have said unto you be circumspect, [...] Ye shall be wary, or take heed to your selves, that ye transgress not. So our Saviour gave the charge unto his Disciples to be as wise as Serpents, and harmless and inno­cent as Doves. Matt. 10.16.

Christ would have them Wise and Innocent. The Serpent hath too much subtilty, but wants simplicity, and innocency; therefore the simplicity of the Dove, and the wisdom of the Serpent make a good mixture; yet of the two, it seemeth more safe to want wis­dom then innocency; better to erre for want of wit, then to de­ceive with too much.

This must be our rejoycing according to that golden saying of the Apostle, That in simplicity and godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdom, but by the grace of God, we have had our conversation in the world. 2 Cor. 1.12.

Again, a Minister must be a Labourer not a loyterer in Gods harvest Whereunto I also labour, striving, saith the Apostle, [...], Sweating and taking great pains, bearing the bur­den and heat of the day. Col 1.29. Which may be most truly ve­rified of him, who laboured more abundantly then all; as his works in the New Testament do sufficiently witness. Christ never bad us pray for loyterers and lookers on; such as will rather let their bodies rust away, then spend and wear them away in the service of God.

The Ministry is a matter of Service; as an Honour, so a Burden. None are called into Gods Harvest but Labourers: And therefore what Work we have to do for God, we are to put forth our strength about it; our great Errand and business in this world being to save Souls, we are to apply our selves unto it with all our might; which is the Argument of the Holy Ghost, Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might, for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom in the Grave whither thou goest. Eccles. 9.10.

Jeremiah saith, Cursed be he that doth the work of the Lord neg­ligently, or deceitfully. Jer. 48.10. Maledictus qui facit fraudu­lenter. Arias Mont.

If this curse do not touch them, which do the chiefest business of the Lord negligently, truly I know not whom the Prophet meaneth.

Saith Paul to Timothy, Give attendance to Reading, to Exhortati­on, to Doctrine, meditate upon these things, give thy self wholly to them; [...] be in them; 1 Tim. 4.13. and after the example of Christ [...]; saith he, I must be about my Fa­thers business. Luke 2.49. The Apostles professed unto the multi­tude of People that came about them, that they would give them­selves continually to Prayer, and to the Ministry of the Word. [Page 7] Acts 6.4. Many thrive not in their Studies, as not calling upon God for his assistance therein, and blessing thereupon, by frequent, ser­vent and constant prayer; which is an excellent way to make a mans ministry shine. And also joyning Fasting thereunto, as often as is convenient. Christ excused his Disciples in not fasting while he was with them: But took it for granted that they would fast, so soon as he was gone from them to Heaven. Matt. 9.15.

This is that which seeds the Soul with the dainties of the Scripture, doth refresh and comfort with Contemplation establisheth with grace, and nourish with heavenly food. This is also the way to true Honour, and to do something in the World for the glory of God.

That our profiting may appear to all, many delivered out of ig­norance, many purged from their filthiness, when we declare unto our People all the Counsel of God. Propound the will of God out of the Word unto the Edification of our People, when the end of Preaching is love, out of a pure heart, and a good Conscience, and faith unfeigned, labour to save our selves and them that hear us. 1 Tim 1.5.

This is the onely way to be great Blessings unto them amongst whom we live; when thousands are enriched by you. Many bless God that ever you came amongst them; and to have many Prayers of the Saints ascending to Heaven for a Blessing upon you in your Ministry; this is no small mercy. To be instrumental for much good unto the Church of God, this is one of the greatest happinesses in this world, To have large Opportunities for God and his Church. And when a Minister is a Voice, he is heard; Ignorance doth not si­lence him, nor laziness, nor abundance of preferment, nor indiscreet and distempered zeal; he is a Voice in his Habit, in his Gesture, and in his Life and Conversation, as well as in his Doctrine.

Now the Peoples eyes will be taught as well as their ears; who otherwise, will be most unmerciful and severely Critical. Noah was a Preacher of Righteousness; because his Life was an actual Ser­mon. An innocent and unrebukable life is a silent testimony of a [Page 8] good Minister. But especially when we manifest our love to Christ by feeding his sheep. Joh. 21.15. By doing all that belongeth to the office of a good Shepherd to his sheep; either young and tender, or strong and well grown. This is also a sure argument of the Mini­sters love to Christ, when he doth Conscionably labour to Edifie those, whom Christ loveth, and for whom he dyed. When we la­bour to approve our selves abundantly to the Church of God, and to the Consciences of men: But not unto their humours.

To answer the end of our Education, the Cost and expence of God, Parents, and School-masters, the expectation of Friends, and any who have shewed us kindness.

And now what infinite pity is it, that any one way of sin should ever stand up to hinder us from serving of God, in the Gospel of his Son? or rob us of our Excellency, and Beauty, and Strength, and Glory. So much sin and lusts, so much loss of excellency. Gen. 49.4.

When there is either lewdness or negligence of them that are able to do well in their Ministry, and yet do contrary, although your words be never so loud, yet if your works be lewd, though you were sons of Thunder, yet a crack in the Instrument will spoil the sound. Sin even in Ignorance is a talent of Lead; but sin in Know­ledge is a Milstone to sink a man to the lowest. Bona noscere, & mala facere, to know good, and do ill, makes a mans own mitti­mus to Hell.

The pleasures of sin are dear bought in any, but especially in a Minister. Heb. 6.6. This doth a world of mischief and hurt both in heaven and earth. The Minister that spends himself like a Ta­per to give light unto others, must not himself go out with an ill savour. When such a one as David sinned, he gave great occasion to the enemies of God to blaspheme; others may swear and swag­ger, and they matter not, nor wonder not. 2 Sam. 12.4.

This was the reason why the Indians refused the Gospel brought by the Spaniards: because their lives were more savage then those Savages. It is said of Hophni and Phinehas, that although they were the Lords Priests, yet they were sons of Belial; they knew not the Lord, and by their sinful and corrupt Sacrificing, they made the People abhor the Sacrifice. 1 Sam. 2.12. So many by their raw indigested slubbering of the Word, for want of study and meditati­on, do make men think that there is no more Wisdom, Purity Per­fection, Majesty and Glory, then they shew out of it; And therefore [Page 9] they stay at home, and say. They know as much as the Minister could tell them. When in a whole Sermon the hearer could not pick out one Note more, then he could gather himself.

Good Matter slubbered up in rude and careless words is made loth­some to the hearer; as a body mis-shapen with unhandsome Clothes. [B. Hall.] A good Minister as he maketh Conscience of Preparing his heart to serve the Lord, so he will not serve God with that which cost him nothing; He converses much with God that he may be ho­ly; as the Object of his Preaching is Christ and the Gospel, and the Kingdom of Heaven, so he labours to be heavenly also. O how gra­ciously should we deliver Gods Errand to the People, and they hear it with fear and trembling!

Holy Duties call for holy Preparation: David washed his hands in innocency before he compassed Gods Altar. Psal. 26.6. And Job in­tending to sacrifice to God in the behalf of himself and his Children, sends to them solemnly to Prepare themselves. And if this be not done, if they sin not against more light, yet certainly against grea­ter obligations.

Nay, the very Heathens themselves would not admit any to come to their Religious Services, unless they were prepared; as that of Aeneas to his Father Anchises, upon his return from the Wars.

Therefore they had one that cried out to the people, Procul hinc este prophani; All you that are unclean and prophane depart hence, and come not near us. And shall Christians who have learnt better things, touch holy things with unholy hands, or unholy hearts? no, they must not, they ought not; Holy Duties call for holy Preparation, and in a most special manner of a Minister, that cometh so near unto the Lord. Men must be sanctified within and without, before they come to the performances of any holy duty: It is true that the Duty sanctifies, but men must be sanctified for the duty.

Again a Minister must be active and vigorous in the reproof of sin, Preach the Word be instant in season, out of season, reprove, rebuke, ex­hort with all long suffering and doctrine. 2 Tim. 4.2. Young Timothy must Reprove and Rebuke; Preaching the same Truths with aged Paul. It is Gods Charge unto Isaiah, to Cry aloud, to spare not, to lift up his [Page 10] Ʋoice like a Trumpet, shewing the People their Transgressions and sins. Isa. 58.1.

A Minister must sometimes change his note, differ from himself, sharpening his speech, dipping his words in gall as our Saviour himself did. Ye Serpents, ye generation of Vipers, how can ye escape the damnati­on of Hell? Whom yet we may find in another place, Matt. 5. as it were Piping and Dancing, and all melodious sweetness. When Ely­mas the Sorcerer, would have obstructed Saint Paul's Preaching, and have turned the Deputy from the Faith. Paul set his eyes on him, and cryes out, O full of all subtilty, and all mischief; thou child of the Devil, thou enemy of all righteousness.

It's true the Gospel hath not one hard and unkind word against a Child of God; but always Grace and Peace from God the Father and our Lord Jesus Christ. This is the Voice of the Ministers of the Gospel, Peace be to you, and Fear not: for behold I bring you good tidings of great joy. Luke 2.10.

Saith the holy Apostle, Ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; But ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry Abba Father. Rom. 8.15. It is never a Spirit of Bondage again in that sense and meaning, as it was before.

But now on the contrary, there is nothing but woe unto sinful and prophane ungodly wretches; There is a time to reprove sinners and workers of iniquity, most sharply, as well as to comfort Saints.

God is content sometimes that we should derive from his Throne Thunderings, and Lightnings, and louder sounds. Rev. 4.5. When Israel in Moses his absence corrupted themselves in making a molten Calf, Moses did not dance after their pipe, and laugh at their Idola­trous Image, and superstitious merriment: but with great zeal repro­ved their folly, and with indignation confounded their Idol.

So if the whole Nation be grown Sermon-proof, sitteth still and is at rest, settled on the lees, prophane, Athiestical; should we not be false Prophets to cry nothing but Peace? Certainly we must now Cry with Isaia. Wo to a sinful Nation. When mens lives proclaim Wars against God, must we not denounce Gods Judgments against them? We would be glad at every Sermon to say nothing but Peace to this Audience; but our God saith, There is no Peace to the wicked. We would sing with the Angels, Peace on Earth, and good will towards men: but how shall we sing the Lords Song in a strange Land? Ps. 137.4. We have Preached Glory, Honour, and Peace, and Salvation, and an in­corruptible Crown, and the choycest delights that heart could wish; [Page 11] and were not regarded: What remains then? but to Preach Indig­nation, and Wrath, tribulation, and angnish upon every Soul of man that doth evil. Rom. 2.8,9. Fire from Heaven, Plague, Sword, and Fa­mine, Captivity, Emptied from vessel to vessel, hurried from place to place.

Mists, and Clouds, and Darkness, and Torments for days and nights, and eternal generations of Years.

We have Piped unto you, and ye have not Danced. Matt. 11.7. we have sung, With thee, O Lord, is mercy, that thou mayest be feared. Psal. 130.4. But now we must change our note, With thee is Vengeance that thou mayest be feared.

If the Spirit of Gentleness can do no good, a Rod must come; if the Songs of Sion cannot Mollifie, the Thunders of mount Sinai must Terrifie.

Eli though a good man, yet his Reproof wanted life, and indig­nation against sin; Nay my Sons, for it is no good report that I hear. 1 Sam. 2.24.

In the matter of Preaching, O what weighty things doth the Word contain? Truths that should make the very bowels of the Minister to yern, and pour out his affections in the Pulpit, to rouze up the Peoples thoughts, and awaken them, from the sleep of sin, and security, wherein they have lain so long a time; Otherwise, when they hear of matters of Life and Death; Salvation and Dam­nation, they sit like blocks in their Seats as though it were no great matter. Thus the golden Bells of Aaron must be rung in several tunes. A Minister must labour to be like John Baptist, to be a burn­ing and a shining Light, more then a Voice; there must be life and heat in his Ministry. Job. 5.35.

A Minister had need of many rare and excellent gifts, to open the Scriptures, to deduce from them, to convince of sin, to lay a good foundation, to move the affections (which the holy Scripture is so full of) And most certain it is that they which are of the most pro­digious, wonderful and incomparable parts, are most sensible of their own inabilities. When God told Moses he would send him to deli­ver Israel, saith Moses to God, Who am I that I should go unto Pharaoh? Exod. 3.10. When none in all Israel or Midian was comparably fit for this Embassage.

Which of the Israelites had been brought up a Courtier, 1 Schollar, an Israelite by Blood, by Education an Egyptian, Learn­ed in all the Wisdom of the Egyptians, and was mighty in words and is deeds. Acts 7.22. So that he was Learned, Wise, Valiant, Experi­enced; [Page 12] Yet he saith, Who am I? 'Tis to be feared there is few a­mongst us look Moses his way; first upon himself, his own insuffici­encies.

How few amongst us, that are named to any place, begins at Moses, What am I? where have I Studied, and Practiced sufficiently before, that I should fill such or such a place of Judicature? where have I served, and laboured, and Preached in inferiour places of the Church, that I should fill such or such a place of Dignity or Prelacy there? How few like Abram left to say in all humility, I am but Dust and Ashes; or Jacob, Non sum dignus. I am not worthy of the least of these Preferments: But every man is vapour'd up into Air, and (as the Air can) he thinks he can fill any place. Many run into the Magi­stracy; many into the Ministry; but who is sufficient for any one? Who is sufficient for these things? saith that [...] ▪ Master of Speech. 2 Cor. 2.16. This is spoken in the high Commendation of Apollos, that he was an Eloquent man, and [...]; powerful, and mighty in the Scriptures. Acts 18.24. fervent in the Spirit, teaching diligently the things of the Lord. Therefore a Mini­ster must have his senses exercised in the holy Scripture, even beyond the common sort of believers; so that he may be said with Apollos, Mighty in the Scriptures:

And though he may and ought to make use of Councils, School­men, and Fathers with reverence; yet Apostolical Writings are one­ly to be appealed to, as the last Rule of Faith.

Thus having spoken something of the Ministers Duty, though in this Grave, Worthy and Learned Audience; not to be Your Instru­ctor, but so as to bring things to your remembrance.

Now it remains that I should speak something of the Ministers Dignity; and for that you see it falls in my Text.

There is no Duty but the Lord crowneth it with some Priviledge, Blessing and Dignity, and that duty and service of the Ministry is not excluded, but expressed more eminently and emphatically.

Now then, We are Ambassadours for Christ.

This is the great Honour, and Dignity of the Ministers of the Go­spel, to be the Ambassadours of Jesus Christ.

Therefore we magnifie our Office: and this heightens our Calling from the preciousness of the Truth, which is to be manifested by us. The greatest Mystery in Heaven and Earth; that upon which depends the great weight of Salvation, a glorious and great dispensation is com­mitted unto us.

First, Ministers are called Watchmen. Son of man, I have made thee a Watchman unto the house of Israel. Ezek. 3.17. a Minister hath relation, and is debter unto the whole Church of God. This shews the Churches danger, and the Ministers duty, carefully to watch, and to warn, to foresee, and foretell danger; this is the Watchmans duty, as not to be blind watchmen given to sleep and slumber. Isa. 16.10.

And upon this very ground the Apostle exhorts the Hebrews, that they should give Honour and Obedience unto the Guides, Leaders, Governours, and publick Officers of the Church, because they watch for your souls, as they that must give account. Heb. 13.17. therefore Honour, Reverence, Obedience and high Estimation is due unto them, as the Servants of the most High God, which shew unto men the way of Salvation. Acts 16.17.

Secondly, Because this obedience will make them do their duty with joy and not with grief; With grief and sorrow for your disobedi­ence, when you oppose your selves, and are obstinate, and rebellious, and ignorant, and set not your hearts to Consider of what is taught.

Thirdly, Because their Rulers discouragement occasioned by their disobedience, will be unprofitable to the disobedient; For that is un­profitable, saith Paul, you shall be infinitely loosers at last, mourn and be in bitterness at the last.

The Ministers watch for your Souls to win and gain them if it might be. The Charge of Church Rulers is the heaviest of all Charges, because of Souls; the most assiduous and painsul setting not of the body onely, but the Spirit on work; because it is a Charge of watch­ing, the most dangerous of all Charges; because the account of lost [Page 14] Souls within the Church, shall be required at their hands, Acts 20.26,27. whether they have done all that which became them to do, to save them or not?

All the People ought to watch. Mark 13.37. and to be sober and vigilant. 1 Pet. 5.8. But the Minister is to watch over all the Flock with a most vigilant eye. The two famous Academies of Oxford and Cambridge, are called the two Eyes of this Land, in comparison of o­ther places: And they are (in Potentia many of them) to be watch­men; excelling in more clear seeing reason, men of Piercing under­standings, Pure phansies, Quick inventions, Conversing with God in the immediate dialects of the Holy Ghost. Others see not but by their Eyes; they see with their own what is written in the holy Scri­ptures. They hear (as it were with their own ears) the very same word which God once spake unto his People.

They can perceive the peculiar and native Elegancy, the sweet al­lusions, and Cadences of Words, with the rich and lofty expressions in the Original, whereas others can but drink of the waters which run through the Chancls of Translation; they have recourse to the Foun­tains themselves, drink at the Springs Head, where the waters must needs be both sweeter and clearer: For dulcius ex ipso fonte bibun­tur aquae. Inspectio fontium, saith St. Austin (de doctrina Christiana) is a special help for the understanding of the Scripture; what need he wait upon a Chanel, that may dwell by a whole Fountain?

That I may digress a little further.

Our Nobility themselves, have delightfully devoted themselves, in the morning of their time, to gather their choicest flowers out of these Gardens. Those that study not the holy Languages, that dig not in these mines; they cannot find such pretious Metal, such good­ly pearls, such choice Jewels.

And such of our Nobility as come to be fervent lovers of sound Li­terature, purity of heavenly Doctrine, and godliness in sincerity of heart, wherein true Nobility doth chiefly consist (for indeed there is none truely Noble but the Virtuous) This is the way to add to the Renown of all their famous Progenitors, and propagate an everlasting augmentation, and increase of all virtue, and honour to all that shall succeed them: Like Romanus who was Noble of Birth, but more No­ble in his Martyrdom. Not the Blood of my Progenitors, says he, but Christian Profession makes me Noble.

I suppose it is granted by all wise men, that there is some know­ledge of the Tongues necessary to the understanding of the Scripture: [Page 15] for the Scriptures are understood by the same means that other humane Writings are; by the use of Logick, Rhetorick, Grammar, and those Tongues in which they are expressed: though it is most true, that there is a singular light of the Spirit always to be sought for by the faithful in the Scriptures, to an acquired habit, though not in that pe­culiar and special manner, when they were insused by the Spirit of God into the minds of men.

Though the Penmen of holy Scripture wrote not according to Art, (as some tell us) but according to grace, which is above all Art: (for unto them the Spirit of God did indite and dictate) Yet they that have written of Art, have found an Art in their Writings. Non enim secundum artem scripserunt, sed secundum gratiam, quae super omnem artem est; scripserunt enim quae Spiritus iis loqui dabat; sed tamen ii qui de arte scripserunt, de eorum scriptis artem invenerunt. Ambr.

Periculose docent, qui prius non didicerunt. They are dangerous Teachers, and unfit for Watchmen, that never were learners.

While they will not become Schollars of Truth, they become Ma­sters of Errour. Saith Christ, I will make you fishers of men; yet they went not presently out of the Boat into the Pulpit, he was three year instructing them: Christ commanded them to stay at Jerusalem, till the Holy Ghost descended on them: Acts 2. they must not simul recipere & effundere, Receive in and Pour out at once. Heri catecu­menus, hodie Episcopus. But first be well principled, and full fraught with sound knowledge, and good learning.

As all the Israelites went down to the Philistines, to sharpen every man his Share, and his Coulter, and his Ax, and his Mattock. 1 Sam. 13.20. so in the Schools of the Prophets, studious young men, do exceed­ingly sharpen their understandings, grow, and improve themselves in­sensibly.

The Levites under the Law were first Probationers, before they were allowed to be Practitioners. This is the way to be men of gravity and experience; to Thunder in Doctrine, and Lighten in Conversation, ha­ving an inward Principle of the light of holiness in them from Christ, that they may shine out holily unto others, not onely in the Pulpit and Prayer, but in the whole Course of their lives also. That they may be able to say, as the Christians did of old, Nos non eloquimur magna, sed vivimus; We do not speak great things, but we live them; they cannot look to be satisfied by the fruit of their mouths, qui ope­ribus destruunt, quod recte docent, who say one thing and do another.

Secondly, Ministers are called Prophets, such as by the inspiration of the Holy Ghost did foretel the ruine of sin, and the reward of virtue, and were interpreters between God and Man.

Prophets and Seers, such as were immediately stirred up by God, and extraordinarily assisted by his Spirit, in such weighty matters, as could not otherwise be effected.

Now Prophets are of such account with God, that it is said God will do nothing, but he would reveal it unto his Servants the Prophets Amos 3.7. Kings, Priests and Prophets, were figures of Christ; all these were anointed with Oyl, to shew that they had greater grace, then the rest. But especially the Prophets are called Men of God; to shew that all that are of God will make much of Prophets for Gods sake.

And Job speaks of such as one of a thousand, an Interpreter, that shew­eth unto man his righteousness, and Gods righteousness. Job 33.23.

Thirdly, All the people of God must work in Gods Vineyard. 1 Cor. 3.9. but the Ministers are co-workers with God. When we Reprove and Rebuke, and threaten for sin, God he threatens; when we Exhort for Duties to be performed, Graces to be improved: God he Exhorts; when we Invite and perswade, and Comfort by the Word, God he Com­forts: and therefore those things, which Gods Ministers befeech, or Command in the Name of Christ; people ought no otherwise to re­ceive them, then if Christ Jesus himself stood by, and commanded them: Therefore as Christ was content to be Baptized of John Matt. 3.13. so be you content to be instructed of us: And they that think themselves too wise, to be taught by us, let all such remember that God hath chosen the foolish things of the world, to confound the wise. 1 Cor. 1.27. Let them think us those Fools whom God hath chosen to confound them.

And all such as account our Preaching foolishness, we grant it unto them that perish; For the Preaching of the Cross is to them that perish foolishness: but unto us that are saved it is the Power of God, and the wisdom of God. 1 Cor. 1.18,24.

We are Labourers together with God, saith the Apostle; and of be­lievers in general, saith he, Ye are Gods Husbandry, Tillage, Field, or Building. 1 Cor. 3.9. which ought to be closely united to one another in the service of God.

Therefore they ought not to be rent into parties one from another. But the Ministers are the Builders, to build men up in Faith and Holi­ness and in the Comforts of the Holy Ghost. Not for that we have dominion over your Faith, but are helpers of your Joy. 2. Cor. 1.24. [Page 17] And that the fear of God might be in every Heart, and the worship of God in every Family, as so many Temples or Sanctuaries.

Fourthly, Though all Believers in general be the Servants of God, yet the Ministers are the Stewards, and Dispencers of the blessed myste­ries of Salvation. Let a man so account of us, as of the Ministers of Christ, and Stewards of the Mysteries of God. 1 Cor. 4.1.

The Magistrate is (as it were) a Fingers of Gods Hand, the Mi­nister a Steward in his House, though in a large sense all are the Lords Ministers. Saith Luther, A Master of a Family hath something to do, a Magistrate more, and a Minister most of all.

Fiftly, Ministers are called Stars, for that they must shine in the Fir­mament of the Church here, shine others, and out-shine all others, as Stars of the first magnitude, yea as the Sun it self: When God set the Sun in the Firmament, he bad him shine there; so when God sets a Minister in a place, he expects he should shine in his Ministry. The Heavens declare the glory of God; Psal. 19.1. now how do they do it, but to the Eyes of men, and by the Tongues of men, for whom they were made: For as a mans Tongue is his glory, so it should especial­ly be for the glory of his God. But for a Minister God hath promi­sed most divine assistance, that he will be with his mouth, Exod. 4.12. and saith Christ to his Disciples, It is not ye that speak, but the Ho­ly Ghost Mark 13.11. Yet that extraordinary Promise was most pro­per to the times of the Primitive Persecution. A Ministers work is in a most special manner to Trumpet forth the praises of his God; to shine in the firmament of the Church here, and to out-shine the Sun in the Kingdom of his Father hereafter.

They that be wise shall shine, and they that turn many to righte­ousness as the Stars for ever and ever. Dan. 12.3. First wise for the salvation of their own souls, that when they have Preached unto others they themselves may not become cast-aways. 1 Cor 9.27. Like those Carpenters, that built the Ark to save others, and were drowned them­selves: Or like Porters of Great mens Gates, that let in others, but lodge without themselves.

Secondly, Gaining of others, saving himself, and them that hear him. 1 Tim. 4.16 Timothy must save himself and them that hear him; and then this is a pledge of our glory; the Promise is clear, they that turn many to Righteousness shall shine as the Stars for ever and ever.

Ministers are like Lamps which consume themselves to give light unto others. And from hence some do strongly imagine, that the blessed [Page 18] Apostle had a peculiar regard and respect unto Ministers in that 2 Cor. 5.1. For we know, that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dis­solved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eter­nal in the Heavens. q. d. dye when you will, heavenly mansions are ready for you. Joh. 14.2. your eternal happiness and blessedness is secured, which being so; those Ministers which are ready to say with Peter, they will dye for Christ. O what pains then should they take for him?

Ministers are the Light of the world, in the places where they live, Matt. 5.14. and where they are wanting, their People sit in Dark­ness, and in the shadow of Death. Luke 1.79. that is, they are Blind, and Ignorant, Dead in trespasses and sins. Ephes. 2.1. rophane, without all the Life of grace in them; they are abominable in the Eyes of God, and all their actions are odious unto him, they are under the power of Satan, and under the wrath of God.

Though it is true, that Christ is the true Light of the World, as well as the true Salt of the Earth; yet it is as true, that Gods faithful Ministers are the Salt of the Earth. Matt. 5.13. to make people sa­voury both in heart and life; so that a constant, painful, faithful, pow­erful Minister Preaching to the Consciences of men, there will be such an efficacious effect of this, that even wicked men cannot so easily sin against God.

Sixtly, Ministers are called Angels; Rev: 2.1. now Angels are Spi­rits, spiritual substances, as the Psalmist speaks, he maketh his Angels Spirits, they are spiritual creatures; their Communion, their Food, their Affections, their minds are Spiritual; so a Minister, though he is a body, yet he is a spiritual man. If you say, so is every Believer, I answer; But a Minister is a spiritual man in a more special manner, as one that comes nigh unto God; his Office and Imployment is Spiritual. Divinity being of all Arts the supreme, most noble, and master-piece, proceeding in a special maner from God himself, treating of God, and Divine matters, and tending, and leading men to God.

1. Ʋse.

For Exhortation to Ministers, that they would be careful to teach the People: If people perish for want of knowledge, shall Mini­sters escape who are negligent in teaching? be sure of it both smart together, they for their Ignorance, these for their Negligence; such Ministers have their doom in that Scripture, Hosea 4.6. Because thou hast rejected knowledge, I will reject thee, whose office it was to instruct, admonish, reprove, intreat, and by all means to turn the peo­ple [Page 19] from their evil ways. O that such men would be pleased to con­sider, that the best service they can do, the greatest honour they can attain unto, is to be faithful Labourers in Gods Vineyard. What an honour and happiness is it to a man, to be made a Common Blessing unto all men round about him? to be Eyes to the Blind, Legs to the Lame, a Mouth to the Dumb, a Staff to the Feeble, a Physician to the Sick, a Counsellour in hard Cases, a Watchman in Danger, a Captain in Conflicts; so much, and much more is a Minister unto his People; if he do his duty as he ought.

And unworthy are they of that office, who scorn to take the pains that belongs to it, or think it an easie, or small matter to save a soul from death.

2. Ʋse Hence we may see by what hath been said, that the Office of the Ministry is no base office; nay, the whole world hath not a greater Office in it. The Apostle tells us, That Jesus Christ the Prince of the Kings of the Earth, was a Minister to confirm the Promise made unto the Fathers. The office of a Minister is an Angels Office; the Angels of Heaven, the highest of them in their places, never go on greater Errands. When they came to the Shepherds, what did they do, but tell of the Birth of Christ? Peace on earth, and good will towards men. Luke 2.14. And is not this our business also? to treat between God and man, about eternal life? We are the Friends of the Bride­groom, We are Ambassadours for Christ, and God doth beseech you by us. We are sutors not for our selves, but for him; desiring to Espouse you unto one Husband, and to present you chast Ʋirgins to Christ. 2 Cor. 11.2. Our work is to Cater for Heaven, to seed the slock of God, 1 Pet. 5.2. to win souls, to gather together with Christ, Matt. 12.30. to bring in Custom for the Kingdome of God. So that a Minister doth not darken knowledge, but his Lips keep and disperse Knowledge. Prov. 15.7. and the people therefore should seek the Law at his mouth, for he is the messenger of the Lord of hosts. Mal. 2 7. openeth the window to let in the light; breaketh the shell, that we may eat the kernel; putteth aside the curtain, that we may look into the most holy place; removeth the cover of the well, that we may come by the water.

Is he then a Contemptible person which bringeth the Message of God? which hath the name of an Angel, the ministry of Life; or else what is the meaning of the Text, Now then we are Ambassadours for Christ?

Certainly the least man in the Ministry ought not to be contemned. As in a Building, some bring Stones, some Timber, others Morter, [Page 20] and some perhaps bring onely Nails; yet these are all useful in their places; the very Nails serve to sasten the work in the Building.

Thus the Church of God is a spiritual Building; some Ministers bring stones, like James, Cephas, and John, Pillars in the House of God. Gal. 2.9. are more eminent and useful: Others useful pleces of Tim­ber, though not Pillars, others less; they may have but a Nail in the Work, yet all serve for the good of the Building. The least Star gives light, and the least drop moistens; Grandis dignitas Sacerdotum, &c. Hieron. in Ezek. The least Minister is no less then an Angel; the least Nail in the Ministry serves for the fastening of Souls unto Christ; there is some use to be made even of the lowest parts of men, the weak­est Minister may help to strengthen ones Faith, though all are not A­postles, all are not Evangelists, all have not the same dextrous abilities in the Ministry, yet all edifie: And sometimes it comes to pass, that God crowns his labours, and sends, most fish into his net, who though he be less skilful, is more faithful, and though he have less of the Brain, like Jacob in respect of Esau, Gen 25.27. yet he may have more of the Heart, go away with the Blessing; and therefore not to be Contemned.

L [...]t a man so account of us, saith the Apostle, as of the Ministers of Christ, and Stewards of the Mysteries of God. 1 Cor. 4.1. q. d. Take heed how you sleight our Ministery; you cannot despise, sleight, and contemn our Persons and Office, and have Life and Salvation. You cannot have the the mysteries of grace, saving knowledge, regenerati­on, and faith, without us, effectual calling, Justification, and glori­fication. What the Lord may do in an extraordinary manner, that I will not dispute; but this is Gods ordinary way, which he hath establish­ed, and we may not expect another; not a new Revelation from hea­ven. Rom. 10.14. How shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard, and how shall they hear without a Preacher. Acts 26.17,18. Saith God to Paul, I send thee to the Gentiles, to open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light. There is Effectual calling; under which is comprehended union with Christ, Regeneration, ina­bling us unto Repentance towards God, and Faith towards our Lord Jesus Christ, [That they may receive remission of sins.] there is ju­stification; under which is contained Gods remission of our sins, and his acceptation of our persons, unto Life and Salvation. [And an in­heritance among them that are sanctified.] There is glorifica­tion, under which is couched as well Gods glorifying of us in this life:

First, By conferring upon us glorious priviledges, as Adoption, Kingship, crowning every good soul with that stile, Regale sacerdo [...]um, Royal Priesthood 1 Pet. 2.9. to be Royal without Priesthood, seemed not to him Dignity enough, and indeed of all the Offices of Christ his Priesthood is the main.

Secondly, Imparting to us here in this world glorious graces, and thereby inabling us to glorious performances.

Thirdly, His Crowning us with glorious Joys, and sweet peace of Conscience.

So then, that which I clearly collect from the words, is this; That the Preaching of the Gospel, is the means appointed by God, where­by we shall be Called, Justified, and Sanctified. Therefore our Office is no mean Office.

When the Prophet Elisha sent fot Naaman the Leper, to come un­to him, these were his words, He shall know that there is a Prophet in Israel. 2 Kings 5.8. [...]s though all the glory of Israel were chiefly in this, that they had Prophets, and others had none.

So when Elisha was dying, Joash the King wept over his face, and cryed, O my Father, my Father; the Chariot of Israel, and the Horse­men thereof. 2 Kings 13.14. Shewing that the Chariots of Israel, and the Horsemen thereof, do not so safe guard a City as the Prophets which teach it, and pray for it.

How joyful and glad was Lydia when she could draw, and constrain Paul, and Silas to her house? If ye have judged me faithful to the Lord, saith she, come into my House, and abide there. Acts 16.15. shewing that never any Guests were so Welcome to her House before.

The Shunamite perceiving that Elisha was an holy man of God, spake unto her husband to build a new Room to welcome him, and to keep him with her, she thought all the places in her house too bad for him. 2 Kings 4.9,10.

How much did the Galatians make of St. Paul? that he saith, They would have plucked out their own eyes, if it had been possible, to have done him good. Gal. 4.15.

How beautiful are the feet of them, that Preach the Gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things. Rom. 10.15. So it is evident, and manifest that once a Minister was esteemed like a Minister. And hath God bidden you despise them now, which bad you honour them before? 1 Tim. 5.17. Let the Elders that Rule well, be accounted worthy of double honour, especially they who Labour in Word and Do­ctrine.

Such as apply their spirits most to the glory of God, and the Publick good; especially such as are Timothies in their houses, Chrysostoms in their Pulpits. S. Chrysostom was such a golden mouth'd Preacher, Mellitissi­mus Christi Concionator; he was so admired for his sweet winning Elo­quence, as that all the people cryed out when he was like to be silen­ced, Satius est ut sol non luceat, quam ut non doceat Chrysostomus; We had better want the Sun, then the Preaching of St. Chrysostom.

And S. Austin studied to make his language sweet and harmonious, and acceptable to Gods people. Some degree of Eloquence seems to be meet for a Minister; for Moses saith to God, I am not Eloquent. Exod. 2.10.

3. Ʋse. Thirdly, Hence we may see who are the best Ministers; not they that can plot most for Preferment, or can Preach most for Applause, ambitious of a little popular breath, but he that setteth himself with all his might to do good. He that winneth souls is wise. Prov. 11.30. because of the great difficulty of this work, he is wise to himself, he lays up a good foundation against the time to come. They are the best Ministers that carry people to heaven; though I know a Converting work is not for us, but for the Holy Ghost; rostra habet in Coelis, qui corda docet. Yet sometimes the Lord is wonderful powerful and efficacious, by that word which we preach, piercing through the very hearts and souls of men, and leaving impressions of an immortal nature upon their spi­rits.

How fain would Christ have saved the people of Jerusalem, the name is doubled to express the truth, and certainty of his great affection. How often would I have gathered, &c. Matt. 23.37.] God offered them mer­cy, while they had the dispensation of the means of grace:

And good Ministers like a Hen which clocketh her Chickens, toge­ther from the Kite, so they clock you together from the Serpent. They would fain do so. Knowing therefore the terrour of the Lord, we per­swade men. 2 Cor. 5.11. the wrath of God is an unsupportable burthen; Who is able to dwell with devouring fires and everlasting burnings? therefore would we perswade men, all men. When Agrippa was almost perswaded to be a Christian, saith Paul, I would to God that not onely thou, but also all that hear me were both almost, and altogether. Acts 26.28.29. A good Minister would carry all his people to heaven with him.

How deeply is Moses affected that the sin of Israel might be forgi­ven, Exod. 32.32. what extraordinary zeal and love for the salvation of men? and as if his joy would have been utterly drowned in the [Page 23] destruction of the Church, or had no part in the Election of Grace. Tertullian understandeth it typically and figuratively of Christ the good Shepherd, who was to be exhibited, and to Dye for the Sheep.

And it is true that Moses was a typical Mediator, and did atone for them. Exod. 32.30. With what a bleeding heart doth St. Paul speak for the salvation of the Jews? Rom. 9.1,2,3. servent appearing in the degree of it, with this unexpressable adjunct, great heaviness.

Secondly, Continuance of it, Continual sorrow in my heart: for I could wish that I my self were accursed from Christ.

And truely we that are the Ministers of the Church of England, might speak this even with tears of blood, if we were able, when we consider how many people in England seem to loose the hope of a good beginning, who have suck'd their first sincere milk of the word, that they might grow thereby. 1 Pet. 2.2. in waiting upon God in his publick ordinances, and blessed God that they might wait, seemed to be in a good forwardness, in the of way of Life and Sal­vation, confessed that they have received comfort, and will still to this day acknowledge it; yet by reason of some who never (we have cause to fear) were converted unto Christ, but unto an opinion, Fantastical spirits which in Corners pour out their Poison, and come not at the Congregations, as Luther speaks, and so they fall off and turn either unto Athiesm, or Quakerism, &c. And there is no doubt, but that this hath been no little grief and trouble unto our godly and dissenting brethren themselves, when they see such sad effects of that doctrine which they have preached. It is one good argnment of piety to love the place where God speaks, the house of his presence. Psal. 26.8. Lord, I have loved the habitation of thy house, and the place where thine honour dwelleth. As the Sun shines gloriously though no eye be­hold it, and pure waters flow from the fountain though none drink of them; so Ministers are the light of the world, though few be enlight­ned by them, and the salt of the earth, though few be seasoned by them.

4. Ʋse. Let me then Exhort you all unto this happy Reconciliation with God. Reconciliation presupposeth a breach; and indeed this was the greatest that ever was made by reason of the sins of man.

There was a heavy war denounced in the inimicitias ponam, when [Page 24] God raised a war between the Devil and us Gen. 3.15. Gods wrath provoked, man thrown out of Paradise, Cursed in his name, nature, body, soul, senses, friends, and whatsoever he takes in hand. Adams Posterity as well as himself became bondmen to Hell; the Earth made barren for his sake, and all the days of his life he was to eat his bread in the sweat of his face, Man an enemy to God, God and man at a ve­ry great distance (I mean a distance of state and condition) and so un­happy man desireth to continue, never to have to do with God for ever.

And how sad and dreadful is it to consider, how averse men are un­to all means that can be used to reduce them, and bring them back a­gain to God. They think not of him, they speak not of him, desire not the knowledge of him, nor any of his ways. Job. 21.14.

And some they can never be far enough from God, and therefore the Prodigal went into a far Countrey. Men having lost their Com­munion, fellowship, friendship, and acquaintance with God, desire so to continue, like some of the Israelites, who began to be in love with their bondage and slavery in Egypt.

And how many thousands and millions have we cause to fear there be, who are dead while they live, or at the best but luke-warm, such as Christ threatens to spue them out of his mouth. Rev. 3.16. serving of God in such a sleight, perfunctory negligent and careless manner, only for fashions sake, and by fits, sometimes perhaps pray when the night comes, hear when the Sabbath comes, fast when Lent comes, and think to repent when death comes.

And alas all this while, they are under the wrath and Curse of God, liable to all the miseries of this life, to Death it self, and those pains that are endless, easeless, and remediless.

And yet men are in a golden Dream, and bless themselves in their evil ways until the very flames of Hell take hold on them. The Lord threatens, he will not spare them, but his jealousie and anger shall smoke against them, blot out their name from under heaven. Deut. 22 20. se­parate them unto evil; what can be more miserable and dreadful then and desolation?

Let me then in the name of God Exhort you all to seek the Lord in good earnest while he may be found. Know in this your day the things of your eternal peace, without which you had better never to have come upon the Stage of the World. O what will become of men at that great Day? that have all th [...]ir time here been found fighters against God, treasuring up wrath against the day of wrath. Acts 5.39. [Page 25] Rom. 2 5. every day carrying a Faggot to that Pile, which shall burn them for ever, a Brand to that Hell, which Sin, and the Wrath of God hath made so hot already. O for men to be in the very gall of bit­terness, and in the bond of iniquity! Acts 8.23. possessed with most wicked malice, slaves to the Devil to do all manner of wickedness; to be given up to blindness of mind, utterly destitute of the true knowledge of God, and of his Son Jesus Christ; under strong delusions, to take pleasure in believing lies. 2 Thes. 2.11,12. This is the greatest judgment that can befal you, unless the earth should open and swallow you up, like Korah, Dathan, and Abiram. Numb. 16.32,33. when Husbands and Wives, Parents and Children, Masters and Servants, went all quick to hell together.

Yet for ought we know while God in justice killed their bodies, he might in mercy save some of their souls. He that repenteth not to day, will have one day more to account for, and one day less to re­pent in: And who knows what may depend upon one day?

Yet Prayers and Tears may do you good. But stay a while; and though streams of blood should flow from you, and you should cry and howl to God to all Eternity, it would never do it; therefore know your time. It is a happy thing for a man to do a business in such a time wherein he may have the comfort of it, the benefit of it.

God proclaims and says to every one of you, this day; Friend, poor soul, as ever you expect to receive mercy, look to it now: for now the golden Scepter is stretched forth, now is the acceptable time and the day of grace and salvation; come in and accept of the offers and ten­ders of grace and mercy now, or else you may be lost and gone for ever, qui jam non credit imposterum sentiet, he that will not now believe shall hereafter feel, sooner or later, The sinner an hundred years old shall be accursed. Isa. 65.20. Tua res agitur non Dei; thou art the person concerned, this business concerns thy life, thy Eternal estate. [...]. Chrys. in Loc. It is not said, Reconcile God to your selves, for God doth not make the breach, but reconcile your selves to God.

Certainly it concerns men, that have not made their peace with God, to spend their days in bewailing their sinful and miserable condition, to exchange all their carnal joy for some godly sorrow, that God may give them that in tears which they could never find in sensual plea­sures, that God may give them salvation; [...], Naz. Orat. 17. God hath joyned salvation, with sorrow and sighing, godly sorrow, and sighing is the souls food, and the minds [Page 26] refection. Therefore do not ruffle it out in the world, taking your fill of Pleasure, as if this world were made on purpose for you to sport in; Remember what the Prophet Isaiah saith, And what will ye do in the day of visitation? in the great Day, whom will ye flye for help to? Isa. 10.3. when the Earth shall burn, and the Heavens shall flame, and the Elements shall melt with fervent heat, and all the Tribes of the Earth shall mourn before the Lord. Although the Lord keep many terrible privy Sessions, and sharp and severe Visitations, for to keep this world in order, yet he hath reserved the great Assise, the great Visitation until the last Day.

And therefore is this a time to be carnal, and secure? and sleeping, when you should be running for the Crown of glory? to be an Athiest in the world?

The wicked through the pride of his countenance, will not seek after God, God is not in all his thoughts. Psal. 10.4. or all his thoughts are, there is no God. non esse Deum sunt omnes cogitationes ejus. Junius. This is that fool that hath said in heart, there is no God. Psal. 14.1. it is ra­ther an Option then an Opinion, faith S. Austin, He could be content there was none. Ita tacitus loquntus est impius, non est Deus, vel utinam non esset Deus.

God is not the object of his joy, his thoughts, and meditationsu, either is he careful and solicitous aboutheavenly and divine things being intentive about prophane. The best things are shut out of his heart, Intus existens prohibet alienum; he lives as if there were no God, with no due sense, awe, or reverence of the most Holy, and glorious God. These men are most truly [...] Without God in the World. Eph. 2 12. hic labor, hoc opus. And therefore to get men to be recon­ciled to God; this is a work indeed, a very difficult work: Well might Paul say, Who is sufficient for these things?

Herein consists the great work of Reconciliation, when Parties be­tween whom hath been friendship, and afterward breaches made, then they are brought into favour again; as S. Bernard tells us in his 32. Ser­mon super Cantica. Quidest reconciliatio, nisi iterata animorum dis­sidentium conciliatio? And the same Father tells us, that there are three to whom we ought to be reconciled, To God, Angels, and Men. Un­to Men by manifest deeds, clear and shining, which are to be wrought before men Joh. 3.21. Let your light so shine on earth to the glory of your Father in heaven. Matt 5.16. There's a demonsiration. Feed the hungry, relieve the Poor; There's another demonstration.

When this is done in Faith; and in Obedience to the Commande­ments [Page 27] of God? 'tis one excellent way for rich men to lay up some of their treasures in heaven: and then let their hearts follow their treasure thi­ther.

This is a brave noble way of giving Earth a translation, and to im­prove every Alms and Penny to the best, laying up in store for them­selves, a good Foundation against the time to come. That they may lay hold on eternal life. 1 Tim. 6.17,18,19.

Secondly, Unto Angels by hidden and secret signs, which are sighs and groans; Angelorum delitiae Poenitententium lacrymae. and other signs of repentance which please and delight the Angels, who are sent about Gods Messages to this Earth.

There is joy in the presence of the Angels of God, over one sinner that repenteth. Luke 15.10. And good Ministers are glad too, when they can perceive it. How glad was the holy Apostle when he perceived it in the Romans, and asked them, What fruit had ye then in those things, whereof ye are now ashamed? Rom. 6 21.

Certainly, sin is not a gainful way; without doubt, more men are impoverished and beggered by sinful courses, then enriched; sin cannot be the way to Glory and Honour: for we dare not avow our sins, but are ashamed of them, when they are done; fruitless, unprofitable before, shame and dishonour after.

Mens Souls are desperately sick of sin, and at Deaths door; must we tell them of Heaven, and an immortal Crown, and Kingdom, before re­penting of their wickednesses, till they be first recovered in some measure from the gall of bitterness, and bond of iniquity. Acts 8.22. from the jaws of Hell, and snare of the Devil? Revive them with the Gospel, before they be humbled with the Law? Without any humiliation, repen­tance, sighs, and grones; certainly we cannot give you comfort. We dare not apply the oyl of Consolation, till we have scoured your festred wounds with the sharp wine of Reprehension.

Be not deceived, God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. Gal. 6.7.

If ye live after the flesh ye shall dye. Rom. 8.13. When Iniquity hath played her part, then shall Vengeance leap upon the Stage. The wicked shall be turned into hell, and all the nations that forget God. Psal. 9.17. And that with a Go ye Cursed into everlasting fire prepared for the Devil and his angels. Mat. 25.41.

Could we behold your Cheeks blubbered with Tears, your Hands beating your Breasts, like the poor penitent Publican. Luke 18.13. your Cryes resounding at Heaven Gates for mercy: or any way [Page 28] but perceive your Repentance and Indignation against Sin;

Then should we think it high time, and seasonable, to sing as sweet­ly as we can, of the tender mercies of God, and the Riches of his grace, unto afflicted and broken spirits.

Thirdly, We must be reconciled to God by Purity, singleness, and sincerity of heart, wherein the perfection of the Gospel doth consist. Mat. 5.8.

And now Men, Brethren, and Fathers, with what words shall I bespeak you all, to live to that God from whom you shine? That when the Grave shall be open for you, Heaven may not be shut a­gainst you. O you that are yet asleep in sin, is it not high time for you to awake? Rom. 13.11. And that knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep. The time of the light of the Gospel which is as it were the Dawning of that great everlasting Day; the words are an Alarm, or Summons unto spiritual vigilancy; an ap­peal to Conscience for the necessity of the Duty: And now know­ing the time, the Propinquity and nearness of salvation, The night is far spent.

Shall the Heavens be all in flaming fire, 2 Thes. 1.8. and the Ele­ments melt with servent heat, before you will begin to fear God? The Sun shined upon Sodom in the morning, and yet the horrible wrath of God fell upon them before evening, and thy Soul may be in Hell before the next morning; as that rich Churls, who reckoned upon many years, and had not a day to live. Luke 12.20.

Shall the great Luminaries of Heaven, the Sun and the Moon be darken­ed? Mat. 24 29. before that soul of thine be inlightened? And the Stars fall down from Heaven, before thou wilt fall down in all humi­lity before thy Maker, confessing and forsaking thy sins? Shall the Sea give up her Dead, before thou art alive? and the Harvest of the world to come, before the Seeds of grace, and eternal life be sown in thy heart? art thou so dead, and buried in sin, that no Sermon shall stir nor awaken thee? but the last Trumpet shall sound before thou wilt hear? O wo to thee when thy days are ended. Then the great Judg­ment, and Visitation will fall most dreadfully upon thee.

And yet I declare unto you this truth in the name of God, that there is not the worst, the vilest in the Congregation, that is come through the Providence of God, before God this day; but for ought we know it is possible, for thy sins to be pardoned, for God to be re­conciled unto thee, and thy soul to be saved; though even now, an enemy, a rebel against God, a slave of sin, and Satan.

O therefore prize this Doctrine of Reconciliation, prefer it above your appointed food, as Job did the holy Scripture; yea, before thou­sands of gold and silver. Job 23.12.

For upon your forsaking a Course of sin, God will not onely par­don you, let all Suits fall, cancel all Bonds, quit all scores, but also receive you into favour.

Now herein the Lord infinitely excelleth all the Princes of the Earth. If a Subject offend his Prince, and his offence be hainous, and capital; be accounteth it a singular and great favour from his Prince, if he can be pardoned, but he shall never be honoured more, never be trusted more; But now the Lord doth not onely pardon great sin­ners, upon true repentance, but he highly honours them, and Crowns them with very glorious Rewards, and the choicest Joys, and Delights that heart can wish.

And this may be said with all grateful commemoration, and great truth, that when by Divine Providence, Almighty God the Father of all Mercies, returned our most dread Sovereign unto us the Peo­ple of England, to the execution of his Kingly Office; he did not onely pardon many Offenders, but hath also honoured them with ti­tles of quality, and places of trust.

I will Answer but one Objection, and so I will draw to a Conclusion.

What infinite Pity is it to consider, how some forsake all Religion, because the Preachers do not Agree; or because the Lives of Profes­sors give some offence?

But certainly there is no Cause why they should mislike the Word for the Preacher, or why they should despise Religion for the Pro­fessor.

Because the Word and Religion, are not theirs which Preach it, and Profess it, but Gods.

The Seed sown in good Ground, may grow, although the Sower had a dirty Hand; Gold Crowns and Scepters are excellent things, although they may be (sometimes) in the hands of thieves.

There is nothing more frequent, then for the Laity to Patronize their sins upon the example of others, and to fortifie their pro­phaneness from the infirmities of their Teachers. Wicked men love that in the Saints, which the Saints never loved themselves: And is this wisdom for a man to make their Foyl his Jewel? their Shame his Glory?

A Ministers life is bad, therefore his Doctrine is false. O this is an harsh Non sequitur.

Personal offences suspend not the Power of the Holy Ghost; but the blessing of Heaven goes along with the Office, and Function. I speak not this for any one to take liberty to sin, but for the satisfaction of some, and for the verifying of the truth.

The Ordinances of God, become effectual means of Salvation, not by any virtue meerly in themselves, or in him that doth Administer them, but onely by the blessing of Christ, and the working of his Spirit.

Now the Lord is not necessarily tyed to afford his Presence, and to ma­nifest his Power always in them; for God is a free Agent, and instru­menta in divinis operantur acsi non operantur. And if God withdraw himself, there is no more Power nor Majesty in them, but a bare em­pty outside, and no more.

Preaching is the Power of God unto Salvation, if the Lord discover himself, without which it is no more Powerful then the breath of a man, yet God hath tyed us to the word, and Ordinances; Because it is the food of the soul, therefore as if you take away food from the body, it will pine; so without Preaching, the People will famish, for where no vision is the people perish.

And O what a miserable thing it is, when a Land is darkened, and and the glory is departed? O the dreadful effects that will follow the Contempt of Gods Ordinances, and his Ministers. When the Prophets went from Jerusalem, then Sword, and Famine, and Pestilence, and all the Plagues of God rained upon them, even as Fire came down up­on Sodom so soon as Lot was gone out: And yet our Tribe is a hated Tribe. Of all Offices, the Office of a Reprover is most unwelcome, for that men love their sin, and their lusts as their lives.

Gods faithful Ministers, as they are set up by God in a special manner to oppose, and beat down the Kingdom of sin, and Satan; so usually they are singled out by the Devil and his Instruments, as the principal Butts against which the invenomed Arrows of Malicious hearts are most directed. And therefore not onely Serpentine Wisdom, and Dove-like Innocency is necessary for them, above others: also Cou­rage and Magnanimity, not to fear the faces of Men: Sanctity and Holiness: but also Diligence and indefatigableness in that great Work which God imployes them about. St. Paul who was the most famous Preacher, and instrument of Gods glory, next to Christ, that ever was in the world, yet counted an Enemy unto the Galatians, for that he told them the Truth. Gal. 4.16. and [...] a Babler with the Philosophers of Athens; The deadliest that Demosthenes bestowed [Page 31] upon Aesehines, and the best the Athenians could afford St. Paul.

Micaiah was hated, because he dealt truely with Ahab. The bravest Deacon that ever the world bred, was half a Martyr in the Pulpit. Acts 7.54.

But although every base fellow stop his ear and harden his heart, against the God of Heaven, and will not obey our Message, which we have from God: yet in a faithful discharge of our duty, we shall be glorious in the eyes of God; and if we cannot get them to the Banquet, yet we shall be welcome without them. We are unto God (saith the Apostle) a sweet savour of Christ in them that are saved, and in them that perish. 2 Cor. 2.15. The faithful Ministers labour whether it hit or miss, is accepted of God; for as he who perswadeth to evil, be it Heresie, or Treason, is punished, although he do not prevail, because he intended it, for that he did labour it.

So he that doth his best to win men to heaven, though he effect­eth not what he desired, though he hath laboured in vain, and spent his strength in vain (amongst men) yet he shall be accepted, and his reward shall be with God.

Thus though our Calling is despised of men, yet it is honourable with God:

Even as the Ambassadour of a King glorieth in this, that he cometh not as a private person, but as the Kings Ambassadour; and because of this Dignity, that he is the Kings Ambassadour, he is honoured, and set in the highest place, which honour should not be given him, if he came as a private person.

So a Minister of the Gospel, like the Kidgs Ambassadour, must magnifie his Office and Calling, for that he glorieth not in himself; but in the King which hath sent him; whose Authority he desireth to be honoured, and magnified.

Now let us all stand and admire at the infinite grace and favour of God, the Father of all Mercies, in bestowing upon us, the People of England, such great, and manifold Blessings; as our Ancient Go­vernment, publick Peace, much Plenty, Prosperity within our Palaces. Psal. 122.7. But amonst all our joys, none should more fill our hearts, and cause them to run over with thankfulness, then the bles­sed continuance of the Preaching of Gods sacred Word amongst us.

The Dew lies not onely upon Gideons Fleece, upon some particu­lar persons, but it is dispersed generally, all the Kingdom over: Every man may take S. Austins counsel, Tolle lege, Tolle lege; every man amongst us may be a Rabbi, Learned in the Laws, Conversant [Page 32] in the holy Scriptures, and speaking the Language of Canaan; seeing that through the infinite goodness of God, out Princes are Christians, there is not that Persecution, Religion is not disturbed, we are not compelled to manifest the proof of our Faith by harder trials, to re­sist even unto blood striving against sin. Heb. 12.4. Sealing to the truth with our blood, as that holy Martyr Ignatius, and many others did. [...]. And when he came to the wild Beasts to be devoured of them, and his bones crushed between their Teeth, saith he [...], Now I begin to be a Chris [...]ian. Ignat. Epist. ad Rom.

In the History of the Waldenses, they petitioning, That seeing it was permitted to the Saracens, and Turks, and Jews, who are mortal E­nemies to Christ, and the basest People in the World, to dwell peaceably in the fairest Cities of Christendom; that Pity, and Compassion might be shewed unto them, who have their whole Religion founded upon the Gospel, and worshipping the Lord Jesus; and that they might be suffered to live quietly in desolate Mountains, and Deserts, and Val­leys, professing that they would live in all fear, and reverence of God, with all due subjection to their Lord and Prince, and to his Lieute­nants, and Officers; and yet this Petition could not be granted.

The Church of God was so obscured, as it was not to be sought for in any external pomp in Publick places; but in Prisons, and Dens; Non in tactis, & exteriori Pompa, sed potius in Speluncis, & Carce­ribus.

Why then are a generation so angry and displeased? like Jonah, that did even Chide with God. By now much the less we are in our Passive obedience, by so much the more let us be in our Active. Let that strength be laid out for Gods glory, which might have been spent in suffering the Wrath of God, or the rage and sury of wicked men.

And let us all be earnest with God for his Church, That the Gates of Hell may not prevail against it; That the Lord would make his People ten thousand times more then they are; and increase their Graces, as well as add to their number. That all the Nations of the World may see the Salvation of God, that the Lord Jesus may abundantly see of the Travel of his Soul, and be satis­fied.

That the Word of God may be as glorious, and as much prized by us the people of England, as ever it was by any Nation since the world stood

That the Ordinances of God may be in so much Power, and Purity, Beauty, Splendor and Glory, that Godliness, and the powerful Profession of it, may be more Honourable, then ever it hath been Contemptible.

That through the Power of the Gospel, and our careful Go­vernment, the Mouth of Wickedness and Prophaneness may be stop­ped, and subdued, and whatsoever is contrary unto sound Do­ctrine, and unto holy Practice.

That the Lord would be pleased to bless our most dread Sovereign Lord the King, with many and happy Dayes; Enrich his Royal heart with many singular and extraordinary Graces, make him as an Angel of God; a man after his own heart, and an Excellent Spirit of Government, that he may still know how to go in and out before so great a People; and may be the Wonder of the World in this Latter Age, for Happiness, and true felicity, to the honour of the great God, and the good of his Church.

That our Nobility may be Loyal, and Faithful; men of ho­liness and Religion, sparkling with ten thousand Glories, Vertues, and Graces; while they oblige their Servants, Tenants, and the Countrey round about them, by their holy Example to the practice of Piety, and the fear of God.

That our Judges may be as at the first, and our Counsellours as at the beginning. Isa. 1.26. like Moses, Joshua, &c. Impartially Execute Gods Judgments upon the Enemies of the Church, and faithfully administer Justice among the People; no unrighteousness in Judgment: but run down as Waters, and Righteousness as a mighty Stream. Amos 5.24. That there may be no complaining in our streets.

That our inferiour Magistrates may be Able men, such as fear God; Men of Truth hating Covetousness. Exod. 18.21.

Our Gentry Sober, Vigilant, Temperate in all things; That they may Run in that heavenly Race set before them in the Holy Scriptures, and so obtain an Incorruptible Crown. 1 Cor. 9.24,25.

Our Ministers all as so many burning Lights, Pastors after Gods own heart.

Our Right Reverend Bishops, and Governours of the Church, imitating Christ, the Bishop of their Souls.

All the People receiving Gods Truth, in the Love thereof, and in the power thereof, men of Integrity, Innocency, and Sincerity:

The gloss of Profession without Sincerity, will off in a Storm; when a man hath not the Root, and principle of grace in him. Mat 13.21.

But where this is, it obligeth a man close to his Duty, both to God and Man. If I am Regenerate, and truely sanctified; I do good Works how, and whensoever occasion is offered: As,

If I be a Minister of the Word; I obey the inward Calling of the Spirit, I accept the outward Calling of the Church; I Preach Ab­solution of sins to every Penitent Soul; I offer the Seals of Reconci­liation to every Contrite spirit; I Comfort the Broken-hearted.

If I be a Housholder; I govern my Family, I bring up my Chil­dren in the knowledge and fear of God.

If I be a Magistrate; the Charge that is given me from above, I diligently execute.

If I be a Servant; I do my Masters business faithfully.

If I be a Subject; I live in obedience unto my Prince: For the same Commandement that binds and obliges unto the Fear of God, bindeth also to Honour the King. 1 Pet. 2.17. to give honour and obedience in a special manner unto the highest Magistrate, so that he which hath not performed the latter of these Duties, is not to be thought to have performed the other sincerely.

Duty binds us to give obedience to Evil Princes, in Conscience of Gods Ordinance: And as an Evil Subject serves God for his Princes sake, so a good Subject serves his Prince for Gods sake.

Thus Obedience is given, if not Principi, yet Principatui; if not to the Person, yet to the Office.

Therefore in the fear of God, let us give all due obedience unto Au­thority; be men of meek and quiet spirits, in imitation of Christ, and according to his Command. Mat. 11.29. who hath also intailed such a blessing upon such persons as imports all good things. Mat. 5.5.

Is it not infinitely better to be a peace Maker, then a peace Break­er? They that live in obedience unto Government, have the Blessing, Benefit, and Protection of Government.

Whereas it is the property of wicked men to be unquiet, restless, such as are without true Peace in themselves, and seek to disturb or molest others; as the word [...] in the first Psalm signifies. And therefore the Laws of the Kingdom do oftentimes most deserved­ly take hold of them. O how may such persons, be ashamed to live; and afraid to dye? when the whole Creation may grone, and travaile in pain by reason of their sins?

Set your hearts now unto these things, for what is our Hope, or Joy, or Crown of Rejoycing? are not even ye in the presence of our Lord Je­sus Christ, at his Coming? Ye are our Glory and Joy. 1 Thes. 2.19,20. Weep in secret for all Abominations you see committed. Let our Reverend Visitors now set their faces against all iniquity, that no sin may be Countenanced, to Eclipse the glory of this Solemnity; so that with the glorious Company of the Apostles: The goodly Fellow­ship of the Prophets: The noble Army of Martyrs: And the Holy Church throughout all the world: We may arrive to that Ge­neral, Honourable, and Glorious Assembly, Heb. 12.23. to Celebrate the Praises of God; and give him due thanks world without end, Amen.