COrinth was a city of Greece; the Grecians were a peo­ple hostile and War-like; in fight, [...] he made the best Warriour who was,2 Sam. 2.18. like Asahel, swiftest of foot; to encourage a swiftness of foot, at set Places, at set Times, were or­dained, were instituted, solemn raceings; crowns of baies, or some other prizes, were publickly produced; for which run the race who so would, run swiftest who so could; he, and he only, who was the speediest runner, [Page 4]wore the baies and won the prize: Unto these solemnities S. Paul here alludeth,

The Text Saith he, vers. 24. I appeal from my pra­ctices unto your own customs, I report my­self unto your Olympick games, unto your Isthmian races [...]. Doe ye not see, that they who are running a race, doe indeed run all, but one onely receiveth the prize? So run that ye may obtain.

Paraphrased. Beloved, while our ready writer thus ap­par relleth his Argument with similitudes borrowed from Isthmian races, Note (I pray you) as well his language as his exhor­tation; The sense, the meaning, of his ex­hortation urgeth, Know ye not, that many are called, but few are chosen? So obey the Gospel that ye may, with fear and trembling, work out your salvation. This (you see) is our Authors sense and meaning; but, while to express this his meaning, this Master of Elo­quence fetcheth about forms of speech from Persons running in races, his phrase import­eth more than his precept. wherefore

Observation. 1 From this very phrase, Learn how to win on mens capacities: Perceive. ye not, that there is no better way to silence gain-sayers, than by assaulting them with matters from [Page 5]within their own knowledge? Oh, convince the disputer of this World by things so evi­dent, that there-unto he him-self must be for­ced to allow his assent: Sirs, As people are not easily estranged from their old acquain­tances, so they are soon reconciled unto what they know; Things already known, (if once they are mentioned) as they leave a just impression upon the memorie, so they set an edg upon the understanding; A word thus spok­en how good is it? 1 Cor. 13.1. If I want charitie I become as sounding brass; Full well raiseth the Holy Ghost unto these Corin­thians a comparison from brass, since no one City was so famous for Brass as was this City of Gorinth; Fitly also doth he here in my Text speak unto them of running, since these Corinthians excelled in the races at Isthmus. (This is, then, the first instruction.) ‘If ye would be able to convince others, be able to allude unto instances within their own knowledge.’

Observation. 2 Next, in that this form of speech so im­mediately relateth unto histories of former times, even unto sports and customs anci­ently used amongst the Graecians of old; Ob­serve secondly, how ill-advis'd all such per­sons are, who cry down humane learning for either needless, or worse: True, 2 Tim. 3.15, God's written word is able to make us wise unto salvation; mean while it seemeth good [Page 6]unto the same blessed Spirit which endited it, that humane learning should make us wise in this written word; I say, If we would finde the Holy Scriptures able to make us wise unto salvation; either we must contemn the good gifts of Gods good Spirit, else we must acknowledge humane learning to be that which maketh us wise in these Scriptures. But, contra rationem nemo sobrius, as for those of our times who appear such haters of knowledge, S. Aug: de Trir. their folly is already manifested unto all men; so manifested that (I trust) they them-selves shall proceed no farther: Nor will I; Wherefore, in the third place,

Observation. 3 In that our Apostle maketh so profitable a use of these races whereunto he here re­fers us, Observe thirdly, To the pure all things are pure: A holy mind can spiritualize secu­lar transactions; The whole creation is, or at least ought to be, every whit as servicea­ble to the inward, as unto the outward, man; There is a kind of a religious chimestrie in a devout soul; Gen. 24.63. Send Isaac into the field, and he will meditate; Once let the Greeks solemnize raceings, and S. Paul will give them the starting word "So run that ye may obtain.

But (distillatio favi) that which, without any the least straining, most naturally drop­peth from my whole Text, is this twofold Doctrine.

• 1. Doctrin: The whole duty of Man re­sembleth a race.
• 2. Doctrin: We should all of us more ear­nestly strive to run thorow our whole duty, then they strive who run a race.

That the whole duty of Man resembleth a race, I shall endeavor to illustrate,Doctrine 1

• 1. From the Holy Ghosts usual way of speak­ing; and so infinitely wise is the Holy Ghost, proved. that He (at all times) well knoweth how to shape his Discourse.
• 2. From his own descants upon this his own dialect; and of all Expositors which, ei­ther may, or can, be consulted, he is ever the best Interpreter of himself.
• 3. From the Spirit and Life of this meta­phorical Precept, "So run that ye may obtain; and when I have represented this, you will yet more perfectly understand my Text.

Proof; 1 viz: from the phrase it selfe. Ca [...]tic. 1.4. That the whole duty of Man resembleth a race, will appear, first, from the Holy Ghosts usual way of speaking; In the Old Testament, Draw me (by thy good Spirit) we will run af­ter thee (in thy ways;) When thou hast en­larged my heart,Psal. 119.32. I will run the way of thy Commandments: In the New Testament, this Pen-man (to name none else) can scarcely point at our Gospel-duties and escape this metaphor: He might have spoken his minde to the Philippians, by saying,Phil. 2.16. I have not la­bored [Page 8]in vain; nevertheless, he prefixeth, I have not run in vain: Gal. 2.2. To the Galathians he might have said, Lest I should or had failed of my purpose; but he phraseth it, Lest I should or had run in vain: And instead of say­ing,Gal. 5.7. Ye did sincerely obey the Gospel, he tel­leth them, Ye did run well: Neither doth he vary his language to the Romans, when he a­voucheth,Rom. 9.16. It is not of him that willeth (not of him that endeavoreth) nor of him that runneth (of him that performeth) but of God who sheweth mercy both unto him that wil­leth, and unto him that runneth too. Sirs, Think not these, or other like instances, wide and too too general; you will finde them all pertinent and home to our purpose, when at length ye consider how (in all these ex­pressions) St. Paul ever intimateth a race set before us: yea, (as if he there did it once for all,) Heb. 12.1, he most plainly so ex­presseth himself.

Proof: 2 viz. From what the Holy Ghost enlargeth up­on this phrase.If the phrase suffice not to evidence, that the whole duty of Man is a race set before him; yet the Holy ghosts large descants upon this phrase will sufficiently prove it, Heb. 12.1. where St. Paul adviseth,Heb. 10.36. Let us run the race set before us, there see how he descanteth upon this advice: Like a partner in the betts, he instructeth, Let us lay aside every weight (for Sin is burthensom;) and (since we have need of patience if ever we will endure to [Page 9]the end) he addeth, Let us run with patience; Gal, 6.9. If we would obtain the prize for which we run, though we be faint, though we be weary, hold on we must; persist we must, weary of well running we must not be; therefore he exhorteth, Let us run with patience: Again, one running a Race doth cloath himself as lit­tle, and load himself as light, as, saving the Articles, he may; accordingly St. Paul coun­selleth, Let us lay aside every sin, every weight; Phil. [...]. 13.14 And striving, if by any means, he might at­tain unto the resurrection of the dead: he af­firmeth, This one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those before, I press toward the mark. Beloved, so palpably would he have us run over our whole duty, as over a Race set before us; that he speaketh just, (just for all the world) like one in the heat of his course: Pe­ctora nostra duas non admittentia curass there­fore,Ovid. saith he, Hoc ago, This Gospel-conver­sation I ply, work out my salvation I do, and for this onely I work; forgetting (the mile­posts already by-past) the Graces already at­tained, and reaching forth unto (that part of the Race yet before me) the Vertues not yet perfected; I press forward (might and main) toward the mark for the prize. Brethren, such a continued exercise, such a life, is, beyond all seruple, a Race; a Race, in every respect.

Proof: 3 viz. from the pre­sent Text.This is yet more plain from the spirit and life of this precept "So run that ye may obtain; the spirit and life of which words, is easie to him that understandeth; so easie, that it requir­eth more of your remembrance than of mine interpretation: all of you will soon conceive their full intent and purpose, if you call to minde,

1. What race that is which is here set be­fore us,

2. What it is, to run this race,

3. What that is, which is, by running, to be obtained,

4. What it is, so to run that we may obtain.

1. Ye know the race here set before us, is, not simply life, (for, although we sit still, the dayes of our pilgrimage still run on;) I say, the race here set before us is, not simply life, but liveing; not living, but leading a life; it is our demenour during this life: once for all,2 Cor. 1.12. it is our conversation in this world.

2. Our running of this race, is the guiding of our feet, the ordering of our conversation.

3. That which by running may be obtain­ed, is,Heb. 13.7. Pet. 1.9. Esa. 35.10. Phil. 3.14. Psal. 50.23.The end of our conversation; The end of our faith; it is here v. 25, a crown incorrupti­ble, Everlasting joy upon our heads; it is, in a word, The prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.

4. Our running, our so'running, that we may obtain this prize, is, The ordering of our conversation aright.

Put all this together, and from all this put together, more than manifest it is, that the duty set before us, is a race required of us; which race so run that ye may obtain the prize.

Doctrine 2 Now, as the Gospel-duties set before us make up a spiritual race, so we must more ear­nestly strive to perform every Gospel-duty-th [...]n they strive who run to win a prize: proved. This is a hard saying; never the less, I doubt not to prove the truth of it, from both text, and context.

Proof: 1 viz. from the pre­ceding verses.Our salvation is 2 Tim. 2.10 in Christ Jesus; but if ever we will obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus, we must more vehe­mently strive to obey the whole Gospel, than they strive who run to win a race; This you will soon discern,1 Cor. 9.24. if you first perceive that immediate dependance which this 24th verse hath upon the preceding verses; If ye accompt so much upon your Christian liberty, (saith St. Paul) consider, Am I not an Apostle v: 1, and therefore One more, much more, pri­viledged than any private Christian can be? Have not we? v: 4, have not Barnabas and I, as lawful power to eate and drink things sa­crificed to idols, as have any of you? Hath not he? Have not I, v: 5, as much right to lead about a Wife for mine own enjoyment, as have James and John, yea as Peter himself hath? We labour with our hands for our [Page 12]livelyhoods v: 6; but have not we a power to forbear working? Verily, as it is, v: 7, unjust that one should war for another at his own charge; as it is, v: 9, unreasonable to muzzle the Oxe which treadeth out the Corne; so v: 14, the Lord hath ordained that they (and there­fore I) which preach the Gospel should live of the Gospel; yet v: 15, I have used none of these liberties: In short, my business is, not to please my self in whatsoever I may, but to edifie others wherein soever I can; and this I doe v: 23, that I may, with you, partake, not of destructive libertie, but of a Gospel-reward.

A tacite Ob­jection. Quest: How falleth in this v: 24th? Answ: While our Authour hitherto gave him-self for an example, carnal hearts would quickly object "What is St. Pauls example unto us? His self-denyal is no tye upon other persons; he, because a grand Apostle, preferreth seve­rity of life before, either freedome, or profit; but, they who abide private Christians, they who minde not high things, they who affect no such popularity, may even leave St. Paul to His strictness; while they, for their parts, stand fast in that liberty wherewith Christ hath made them free. Removed. Thus, thus men of corrupt mindes would be apt to argue; but this tacite objection our v. 24th preventeth; this sort of gain-sayers our Apostle undeceiv­eth: saith he, Never mistake your selves; [Page 13]this strictness of mine, is no more then what is necessary; Know ye not, that many profess the Gospel, but few obey it as they ought? So run thorow every Gospel-duty, that ye may at last obtain the hope which is set before you: Ye see now, we can none of us be followers of St. Paul, as he here giveth himself for an example, unless we more earnestly strive to perform our duties, then they strive who run to win a race. (That, my first proof.)

Proof: 2 viz. From the pre­sent verse, But wherefore should we dwell upon the Context, since the Text it self so plainly con­firmeth this truth? Know ye not, that they which run in a race run all, but one onely recei­veth the prize? Beloved, that race was a vain sport, that prize a corruptible crown; but the race set before us, is spiritual; and the crown after which we press, is eternal: Now, if none could receive that corruptible crown but he, and he onely, which out-ran all o­thers, neither can we receive the high prize of our calling in Christ Jesus, unless we strive more earnestly to obtain it, then they did strive who ran that race.

Application. By this time, these sayings have sunk deep into your ears: For who can call this Precept unto his remembrance, and not understand for time to come? or, Who can wisely under­stand these saving Truths, and neglect to work out that salvation which is in Christ Je­sus? [Page 14]Nevertheless, that each of you may, not onely be, but continue, wise unto salvation; that all of you may, not onely run, but so run that ye may obtain; unto me it will not be grievous, to press forward unto Applica­tion.

Reproof. 1 Christians, Ought we to perform all Gospel­duties with so great a watchfulness? Must we so run as if we were running a race? yea, and so run this race too, as they who are run­ning for a prize? Doth the Holy Ghost com­mand us to run, and to run so? Then is this commandment a Reproof unto those inconsi­derate, careless, stupid, Creatures who heed not whether there be any such race set before us, or no: Alas! although truth be the ad­equate object of the understanding; yea, al­though the more considerable any truth is, the more (in reason) it should work upon the un­derstanding; yet, by some idle-minded per­sons, the weightiest points are lightest set by; Death, Judgement, Hell, Eternity, how unque­stionable (these?) Yet (the Lord forgive us) seldom do we meditate upon these things. Know we not, that we have every one of us as well a soul to be saved, as a body? yet (to their shame [...] speak it) some among us more frequently cleanse from filthiness, the nails of our fingers, or the hair of our head (I had almost said, the hair of our Pery-wigs) then these precious, these immortal souls of [Page 15]oures! If with fear and trembling we must strive to run, and so to run that we may ob­tain; blame worthy are all such (and such are most among us) that neither care to obtain, nor strive to run. (That is the first.)

Reproof. 2 Secondly, seeing we should all of us run, and run to obtain, This reproveth presump­tions Reprobates, who instead of running from the torments of hell unto the pleasures of hea­ven, that is, instead of running from a state of nature to a state of grace, from a heart of un­beleif to a lively faith, from a dung-hill of dead works unto fruits of righteousness, doe run from bad to worse: Such harden them­selves in their own naturall corruptions! Such give themselves over unto a perpetual back­sliding! whatsoever looketh toward godliness and true holiness, that they despise! wicked miscreants, (but desperately wicked!) Is it not enough that you neglect to run, unless in­stead of running forward, ye lye down in your shame? Can you not be content that ye de­sert the race, unless you trample under foot the prize which is set before you? Our graci­ous and mercifull God desireth, that even you would obtain an inheritance with the Saints in light, and doe you take a vain glory in selling your selves unto the Prince of dark­ness? O ye fooles, when will ye understand?

Reproof. 3 Thirdly, Since there is no obtaining sal­vation [Page 16]in Christ Jesus, unless we so run as we ought; inexcusable are multitudes, who, al­though they doe not deliberately harden themselvess in running contrary to God, yet (if they doe but run at all) heed not whether they so run that they may obtain. You (luke­warm Professors) will you accompt that a good fight, which is only a beating the aire? will you esteem that a well running, which is only a running in vain? He is more then stupid, who slumbereth in the midst of his race! As good never a whit, as never the better: Know ye not, that they which run in a race, run all, but one only receiveth the prize? No af­fections, no feet; if ye cut off the feet of your affections, be ye sure, ye shall reap damage: It is said of Idolls, leggs have they and walk not; will you be such? Run not, like them whose feet are out of joynt; but so run that ye may obtain: And, if obtain you would, re­ceive these instructions,

Instruction. 1 First, Let every man discharge the duty of his own calling, Cor. 7.24. Our conversati­on can never be as becometh the Gospel, ex­cept every man, wherein he is called, therein abide with God Rom. 12, He that ministreth let him wait on his ministring; he that teach­eth, on teaching; and he that ruleth, let him rule with diligence: (Bear with me) Of late, there is too great a want of this diligence in rulers; Profaneness threatneth, if not the cheif [Page 17]City, yet many cheif places, within this King­dome! It evil becometh a Christian Magi­strate, to bear the sword of his God in vain.

Instruction. 2 Secondly, If we would obtain that for which we run; let every one of us mind the present duty: Friends, As every promise to us made, implyeth a duty requisite from us, so every place, every moment, requireth from us a present duty too: Mat. 11.25 At that time Jesus answered and said, Object. No body spake to him; Answ. Iesus answered the then present opportunity; viz. Unto every instant of time there is an answer due; I doe not answer my duty now, except I so speak as for edification, and that too, as from the Lord; neither doe yee now answer your duties, ex­cept ye now hear as persons desirous to in­form, awaken, and strengthen your souls.

[You of this Eminent Societie, you the Ho­norable Company of Mercers, will answer Your duties, if you (this day) shew your selves faithful stewards of those blessings in behalf of pious and charitale uses, wherewith the li­beral hand of your God hath entrusted you; you will (this day) answer your duties, if your Feasting this day be among you an oc­casion, not unto disorder and gluttony, but unto love unfained and unto a rejoycing in the Lord; I trust, you will (this day) unite your hearts, not only to delight in one ano­ther, but to fear the Lord and his goodness. [Page 18](Right Worshipful) You are the chief and most eminent of the chosen Companies of this most famous City, wherefore, if at all times ye would answer your duties; as your God hath placed you the first in order, so endea­vour ye (I beseech you) to lead and go before others in good examples, & in good works.]

In a word, every one of us then answer­eth present duty, when he considerately endea­voreth to perform that at every present season wherein he may, at every present sea­son, best glorifie his God: We must do good, and Gal. 6.10 good we must do as we have opportunity. 1 Sam. 10.7. Do as occasion shall serve; a good runner mindeth every step, he will not lose, no not one footing: Whether mud or sands, whether hills or meadows, li­mit their banks, toward their Sea rivers run; they run and run continually; and John 4.14 living Waters are ever springing upward: We Christians, throughout our Spiritual race, must be like Soldiers, ever upon duty. (This is my second instruction.)

Instruction. 3 Thirdly, If we would so run that we may obtain, what duty soever we do, let us do it heartily, as unto the Lord: Then the diligent hand maketh rich, when it maketh Religion its business. Acts 11.23. We must cleave unto the Lord with a full purpose of heart. Lev. 11.42. Whatsoever multiplieth feet is an abominati­on: Why? Answ. It can but creep. It is then a sign that we run well, when we breath and [Page 19] pant; viz. when we breath after holiness, and when we pant after God. Lovers have a lan­guage of their own; their feet talk, their hands talk, their eyes talk; so thou, (when by­standers, when worldlings are not aware of it) have a foot for thy God, a hand for thy God, an eye for thy God. Psal. 16.8. They that would not greatly fall, do set the Lord al­way before them; much more they that would run well. Then we run our best, when the de­sire of our soul is toward the name of our God.

Instruction. 4 Fourthly, If obtain ye would, Duly fre­quent Ordinances: It is good being there where Princes scatter gifts: It is good being there where the power of the Lord is present to heal. Esa: 64.5. Thou meetest them who re­member thee in thy ways. Quest. Where are the ways of God? Answ. Psal. 77.13 Thy way, O Lord, is in the Sanctuary. Gospel­blessings accompany Gospel-Ordinances: Joh: 5.4. While the good Angel moveth the wa­ters of Life, we should not absent our selves from the Pools of Bethesda. John 13.30 When Judas forsook the disciples of Christ, he left Christ as well as them; but John 20 28. When Thomas was assembled with the rest of the Disciples, he was then no longer faithless, but believing. Unto this hour Je­sus Christ teacheth daily in the Temple; though not by himself, yet by his chosen Ministers. That is (then) a fourth Instruction, Let us not [Page 20]forsake the assembling of our selves together, as the manner of some is.

Instruction. 5 Fifthly, If ye will so run that ye may ob­tain; In the use of all Gospel-Ordinances, wait for the Spirit accompanying those Ordinan­ces. Jer: 10.23 It is not in Man that walk­eth (much less in man that runneth) to direct his own steps; but Esa: 58.11, The Lord he shall guide us continually; Psal. 143.3 Our soul is like a barren and dry land, it is God that (Esa: 58.11) maketh us like a watered gar­den. Psal. 143.10 Lead me, but lead me with thy good spirit; now this spirit is given, Luk 11.13 to them who thorow very hunger ask for it. If in every exercise of godliness, we thirst after a communion with our God, a com­munion we shall partake; for our God hath told us, Esa: 44.3 I will pour water upon him that is thirsty. Matth. 7.7 Seek grace, and finde grace. Of old time, they who ran races, did first anoint themselves with oyl, and we (in this spiritual race) should, 1 John 2.27 use the ointment of the Holy Ghost. 1 Sam. 10.9 When Saul was anointed, God gave Saul another Spirit: (Beloved) as Royal Ʋnction, so Holy Ʋnction, not onely declareth a right, but enableth for duty. Cant: 1.4 We will run after thee, Qu: How so? Answ: v. 3, Thy name is as oyntment powred forth: Once get the Ointment of the Holy One, you will then so run that ye may obtain.

Instruction. 6 Lastly, Do all in the name of the Lord Jesus. [Page 21]Among other Excellencies in our English Li­turgy, this is not the least, That almost eve­ry Prayer concludeth in Jesus Christ his name: Jesus Christ he is, as well the Omega, as the Alpha; he is the Amen: Beloved, the graces of Gods spirit are living-waters; but Zech. 13.1 Jesus Christ is that Fountain from which these waters of life are drawn: 1 Pet. 1.11 The Spirit which was in the holy Men of God, was the Spirit of Christ: Col. 3.3 Our life is hid in God but with Christ. 2 Tim. 2.1, Be strong in grace. Qu. In what grace? Answ. In that grace which is in Christ Jesus. Micah 5.5 That Man shall be the peace. Qu. What Man? Answ. 1 Tim. 2.5 The Man Christ Jesus. Ye obtain Salvation, Qu. What salvation? Answ. 2 Tim. 2.10 The salvation which is in Christ Jesus. Ephes. 6.10 If ye would be strong to run this race, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might; lean upon him, trust in him, make him your stay, your strength, and your good speed: Yet this ye cannot do, until ye first stir up your selves to lay hold on him. I exhort therefore,

Exhortation. 1 Since we should so run that we may ob­tain, Let your loins be girt: Every one of us have, at the best, bin ill-advised; we have started too late, we have run too slowly, we have fallen too often: Yet, yet the prize a­bideth before us; as yet the Crown is within veiw; Oh, while we have yet day-light, let us work-out our salvation, let us not fail of [Page 22] obtaining, let us lay hold of eternal life, even, of that salvation which is in Christ Jesus: Let every one of us redeem the time, let us all run, and so run, as knowing the terrors of the Lord: If we press not forward to appre­hend, that for which also we are apprehend, the terrors of the Lord they set themselves in array against us: For,

Terrour. 1 First, It is a Duty incumbent upon us, that we run this race: Other races are left unto the spectators liberty; spare the prize, and spare to run, This not so: This so run, is, not a permission, but a command. We are brought into this world, not to be by-stand­ers, not to be gazers or lookers on, (that is the the Angels lot, that,) but to be runners: We are enjoyned, we are commanded to run.

Terrour, 2 Next, Were there no command, yet there is a necessity laid upon us: Of them that doe run, others if they so run that they doe not obtain, they have their labour for their pains; or, if suffer they doe, yet is it at most but some small loss, some corruptible crown, some little shame which will soon o­ver: With us not so; To turn back is death, (behind us is hell;) to stand still is death, (beneath us is hell;) If we will not lay it to heart to give glory to Gods name, Mal. 2.3. God will even bring a curse upon us. Heb. 2.3. It is not how shall we obtain, but how shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation? It is with us, as 1 Sam. 14.13, it was with Iona­than [Page 23](climbing the rock with his hands) if we get not up, we fall and perish; if we reach not the height of Sion we are cast out into the Ʋalley of Hinnom. It is with us as with pre­tenders unto supremacy; if not a Throne, a Scaffold; if not a Crown, a block; if we ob­tain not the salvation which is in Christ Iesus, we shall everlastingly abide under the con­demnation of the Devil.

Terrour. 3 Thirdly, Consider the quality of the race here set before us: It is another kind of task to run thorow all Gospel-duties, then it was to run over the race at Isthmos: 2 Pet. 3.11, What manner of persons ought we to be in all holy conversation and godliness? So much a­doe to cleanse from vain thoughts, from evil intaginations, from all filthiness of the Spirit! To watch against every idle word which we sure to answer for; to lay aside every sin, to put away the evil of our doings, to purge our selves from dead works, to put off the old man! For a mind, naturally alienated from God, to acquaint it self spiritually with God; to bring every thought into the captivity of Jesus Christ, to be renewed in the spirit of our mind; to have our speech seasoned with Salt, good for e­difying, & setting forth the praises of our God! To bring forth much fruit, not to lose our first love, to grow in grace, to be perfect as our hea­venly father is perfect! multū fecit (que) tulit (que) Horat. — sudavit & alsit, who is sufficient for these things? To make what is (for continuance). [Page 24]a walk, (for swiftness) a race; to walk with God, to follow God fully, nay to run after him till we overtake him, hic labor, hoc opus est! He that would at all times deny himself, and at all times exercise himself in godliness, must strive more vehemently, then they strive who run a race.

Terrour. 4 Fourthly, View the trouble some place where­in we run: Other races are run upon cho­sen hills, upon champian plains, upon carpet­ground; but this is run Gal. 1.4 in this pre­sent evil world: Whether we regard prospe­rity or adversity, we have little good turfe here. Every one of us, as well as Magor­missabib Ier. 20.3, may be named Fear­round-about: If adversity make the world go heavy with us, we are then apt to slip and fall like Abraham, who Gen. 20.2 stumbled and equivocated; like David, who 1 Sam. 21.5 stumbled and lyed down-rightly; like Iob, Iob (3.1) stumbled and fell a cursing. If pro­sperity heap worldly blessings, though bles­sings they be, they cumber the new man; Heze­kiah stuck presently when 2 Chro. 32.25 the world went well with him; when Dives fared deliciously every day, Luke 16, Dives forgot that there was a hell; In stead of making friends by it, many stumble at Mammon and Prov. 30.9 deny God; Most, how uncertain soever riches are, set their hearts more upon wealth, then upon their God who gave it. In short, dust would to dust; and the more it is [Page 25]watered the more dirt it maketh: Now, to tread well in ill ground, to run among thorns and not tear the feet; to run wayes of holiness in a world of wickedness! In disadvantagions groung to run at all; yea so to run as to ob­tain, this is more difficult then to run a race.

Terrour. 5 Fiftly, Cast up how small a pittance of time is here allowed us for the obtaining of this prize: To one running for a prize, what space of time is allotted? Answ: Not a minut to spare; Span the length of our daies; 60, 70, 80, years are soon passed over; yea none can assure to himself so many houres of life, no not so many minutes; and yet, if (du­ring life) obtain we can, well; after death there is no further running. Look we for, and hasten to the prize, what we are able; if, if we run not the faster, our grave preventeth us. Sirs, were Methusalem now alive, to work out his salvation were a project which would cost him every hour of his long life; As for many of us, we have scarcely found time enough to set our houses in order, much less our hearts: To perfect holiness, is a task for Paul the aged; David, as he was full of grace, so was he full of daies; but none among us can boast. himself of to morrow: Up, let us be running, the day is farr spent.

Terrour. 6 Sixthly, Examine well thine insufficiencies, and thou mayest be a terrour to thy self In [Page 26]other trials, the racers singled out are men na­turally agile and active, men breathed and exercised, men as light of foot as a wild Roe; but, we, like Mephibosheth are lame of both our feet. Psal. 19.5. It is for a strong man to run a race; but, we are weak, our souls are aguish, made up of infirmities: (Impar con­gressus!) Our performances are as nothing, if compared with our duties. Look on the things behind, on that part of our race which we have already run; it will prove, not hast­ning towards, but a running from the prize. Alas, our inability is manifest, even, in our (once) perfection; (I speak as to wise men) If Adam, when he could stand, fell; how shall we, who are fallen, stand? Beloved, the more our duties doe over mach our strength, the greater is the difficulty to obtain this high prize.

Terrour. 7 Seaventhly, Note the opposition we meet with; Others, when they are running a race, are secured from interruptions, 2 Tim 2.5 If one strive, yet he is not crowned unless he strive lawfully, viz Run with me (if you will) get before me (if you can) but, justle me, shove me, bobb me, ye may not; that is not fair; much less to trip up the heels: Otherwise it is with us in our spiritual race; we Psal. 17.11 are compassed in our steps: Sathan he ever seeketh to foil us; either bruising our heels, like an old Serpent; else gapeing to devour us, like [Page 27]a roaring Lion. So spightfull is the Devil un­to every Creature of God, that tather then leave his old wont, he will Mat. 8.32. tor­ment Hoggs; but, of all creatures, he is most envious at such as are most like to obtain this prize: Now Jerem: 12.5 if thou hast run with foot-men, and they have wearyed thee, then how canst thou contend with horses? If without striving thou canst not overcome thine own infirmities; how canst thou, with­out striving vehemently, overcome the pow­er of Satan, that I may not say, Press forward toward the mark? we must fight (as well as run) if ever we will obtain.

Terrour. 8 Eighthly, Weigh the excellency of the prize: Exceeding pains, except it be for somewhat suitable, is but exceeding folly: On the other side, Great rewards deserve great industry. Josh. 14.9 Saith Moses to Joshua, Surely the land whereon thy feet have troden, shall be thine in­heritance: Qu. Why an inheritance so large? Answ. Caleb followed God wholly: Christi­ans, if ever ye would obtain the everlasting inheritance, follow God fully: If others must so run for a crown corruptible? for a few fade­ing bay-leaves? Know ye not, that the Crown set before you, is a Crown incorruptible? This prize is Phil. 3.14 a prize of a high calling.

Terrour. 9 But, that which is of greatest moment is, not our glory, but the glory of our God: All [Page 28]the former instances are not worthy to be named in comparison of this. Sirs, were it meerly our own damnation that we feared, were it meerly our own salvation that lay at stake, the worst would then light upon our selves: But 1 Cor. 6.19. We are not our own; neither run we so much for our selves as for our God. The start is given, and running we are, but God is he who betteth the greatest stake. If thou art [...], if thou art preserved by God, this glory be given unto the God of thy salvation; but if Men and Angels look on, if the envious devil look on, and find in the end, that (after all thy running) obtain thou couldest not; then (think with thy self) what will God do unto his great Name? You, before whom God hath set this spiritual race; You, whom the God of your praise hath singled out to run this race, if you (his chosen ones) obtain not, you will then give occasion to Gods adversary and yours, to blaspheme the wisdom of that God who appointeth you to run, and the power of that God who did not enable you to obtain.

Exhortation. 2 But ye, Brethren, Let not your heart be trou­bled, neither let it be afraid: Fear hath bon­dage; watchful I would have you be, but not fearful: Heb. 6.18 The race set before us, is, if rightly understood, the hope set before us. Wherefore my next Exhortation is that, rejoycing in full assurance, ye hope unto the end. [Page 29]Stay not any longer upon mount Ebal, but pass over unto mount Gerizim: Return back again (I pray you); This once return back a­gain by the self-same way-marks which I did last erect; and what formerly meditated your terrors, will ever hereafter become your strong consolations.

Permit that we run over them in order, and (that done) we shall have finished our course.

1 Consolation. 1 True, It is a duty incumbent upon us to run this race, mean-while this duty is, not our terror, but our rejoycing: Of our selves what to do, whether we should or should not run, we neither know, nor heed; but, since our Maker instructeth us, since the Law-giver directeth, since the Lord himself commandeth, happy, happy we! Now know we, that it concerneth us to run, and whither to run: Now know we, what is acceptable to our God, and good for our selves; if Gospel-duties are the race set before us, the race set before us is the way of our peace. Since we have a warrant for what we do, we will run this race with chearfulness, and with rejoycings; for the wise God, the God of truth, the God of our blessings, He, He, in free love to our souls, hath set before us this race.

2 Consolation. 2 The necessity laid upon us (that) maketh for our comfort too; viz. Periissem, nist pe­riissem. Foelix necessitas quae cogit ad deum. [Page 30]Hebr. 13 14 If we have here no abiding ci­ty, we seek that to come; If the Law condem­neth us, it scooleth us to Christ; In this case, desperation begetteth courage: Necessity was it which made Hannibal victorious. The farther we run from death and hell, the nearer we ap­proach heaven and glory. Be it (Job 21.6.) be it, that when I remember I am afraid, yet, Sine periculo friget animus; Blessed is the man that thus feareth always; Parents provide rods for their children, as well as Books. Psal. 23.4 Thy rod doth comfort me; for fear of this it is, that we love our own good the bet­ter. Of that Isthmian race unto which our Apostle here alludeth, One side was bound­ed with the River Alpheus, the other with naked swords: Why this? Answ. That they which run this race might make strait pathes to their feet. Friends, the Lord of hosts would never place hell behinde his chosen men of War, were he not well able to con­duct them into Heaven: If the Captain of our salvation break down the Bridge over which we came hither, while he preventeth us from turning back, he maketh us more then conquerers. (And this is our second consola­tion.)

Consolation. 3 The quality and nature of the race it self, (that) may likewise be our encouragement. The ungodliness which we should renounce, What is it? It is (we know) mere silthiness, [Page 31]mere drudgery; a good rid of it. Who (in the good name of our God,) who would be fond of shackles? fond of being a slave? of being a slave unto the tyrannies of the accur­sed devil? This sinfulness which corrupt na­ture once delighted in, (Oh!) What a dead­ly trouble it brought with it? There is no peace to him that delighteth in wickedness, saith my God. Secondly, Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Iesus Christ; if we may be but allowed to hate every false way; to lay aside every sin, and to deny all ungodliness: yea and blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, that we are allowed to exercise our selves unto godliness, and to imitate and resemble the Image of Gods glorious Holi­ness. Godliness is great gain, if we accompt all. A new life is a new creation, and a new creation is a recreation: The wit of Man can not contrive a sort of life more desirable then is this which the Wisdom of the onely Wise God hath chalked out unto us: For, al­though the flesh be indeed infirm, yet it re­joyceth in hope; and, as for the Spirit, that is willing and obedient. Verily new obe­dience is, not onely profitable, but pleasant; if it be a yoke, it is an easie one; and the blessing of the Lord resteth upon it: To seek holiness, is, to exchange curses for blessedness, death for life, shame for glory, guilt for peace, darkness for light, and vexation for joy. How­ever, Why, ah why, should Gods Com­mandements [Page 32]be grievous unto him, who hath a love for his God? As for the wicked, if righ­teousness be an abomination unto him, it is be­cause he knoweth no better: Of it self, (Esa. 64.5) it is all one to work righteousness, and to rejoyce: A godly conversation is Phil. 3.20 a heavenly conversation! No such li­berty, as (is) the Gospel liberty; and if the Son and Heir of all things maketh us free, then are we free indeed John 3.36. (This is our third comfort.)

Consolation. 4 Our fourth comfort groweth in the place wherein this race is set before us, even in this present evil world: For, be it, that this world is a seducing world; be it, that it is a world of wickedness, yet, within this world, the Church of Jesus Christ is the pil­lar and ground of truth. Be it, that this world is a wilderness, in this wilderness (Hos. 2.14) God will allure us: Christ, as he is the way, so he setteth up way-marks; he, Psal. 5.8, will make his way straight before us. Rather then we should conform unto the evil of the world wherein we live, this Apostle (of us Gentiles) calleth upon us (cap. 11.1) Be ye followers of me: yea Christ himself hath given us an example: Wherefore not a man among us, but may say with David, Psal. 31.8, Thou hast set my feot in a large place, even (Esa. 18.7) in the place of the name of the Lordof, hosts. Beloved, wheresoever the [Page 33]glory of Christ his Gospel shineth, there, upon all that glory, is a defence.

Secondly, Go out of the Church into the world; Iesus Christ he hath overcome the world for us.

Thirdly, The more dis-advantageous the ground, the greater praise unto him that runneth well: To be holy in heaven is no thanks to us; to be righteous in Sodom, to be Saints in Nero's Court, this is praise-worthy. It was 2 Sam. 15.21 the commendation of Ittai that he would accompany his Prince in a strait, he was resolved to follow David as well in death as in life. To be then on Gods side when all the world sideth against God, this is Loyaltie.

Fourthly, The more wickedness abound­eth in the world, the more easily may Gods children learn to detest it; to abstain from sweet wines is no easie matter, but even he who is given to his appetite, may soon be dis­swaded to desist from quaffing off full draughts of Vinegar doth Naturally beget in us a detestation.

Again, If the whole world lieth in wick­edness, it is now worthy our while to watch against this enemie; this will be, not a light skirmish, but a pitched Battail; we have now some hopes of growing victorious; Faith will find some pleasure, if it may encounter with a world so dangerous as is this wherein we live.

To conclude this: The more wicked the world is, the more honour have all those Saints which keep themselves unspotted of it. Phil. 2.15 We then behave our selves like the sons of God, when in the midst of a crooked and perverss generation we abide blameless and harmless. Therefore, so farr is the world from making against us, that it maketh for us: This is then our fourth comfort.

Consolation. 5 Your Fift, Consolation is, That the time wherein we run is but short. Although the spi­rit be willing, (I wiss) flesh and blood is weak; and although the commandement is good, cor­rupt nature fancieth it greivous; allow this; never the less, can we not watch with Jesus one hour? Chear up, beleivers, this world shall not last alwaies: Esa. 57 The righteous are taken away from that which is evil. If compared to the everlastingness of the prize, all that we doe, or can suffer, is but for a mo­ment. Yet a little while, and we shall rest from our labours; yet a little while, and the race will be ended: Know ye not, that we are [...]; Know ye not, that what race we run (is but stadium) is, at most, but a furlong in lenght? Sirs, if the race (here set before us) be in length but one furlong, how easily may we hold out? This is therefore a Fift Comfort.

Consolation. 6 Our next Consolation springeth from a sense of our natural insufficiency: And here a threefold Cord strengtheneth us: For,

First, God accepteth the will for the deed: Rom. 8.34 Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ who died, and died for us: As Christ the head Esa. 50.8 so every member of Christ may safely say He is nere that justifieth me.

Secondly, Psal. 94.18 When I said my foot slippeth thy mercies O Lord held me up. Prov. 2.8 The Lord preserveth the way of his Saints; He Psal. 21.3 preventeth thee with his goodness, He Psal. 58.13 sets thee in the way of his steps: Prov. 3.23 Thy foot shall not stumble, or, if it doth, He Psal. 19.11 shall bear thee up, He Prov. 3.23 will hold up thy steps in thy wayes: nay, Micah 7.8 When I fall, I shall arise.

Thirdly, Not I, but grace: So long as the child can not goe at all, the nursing-father carrieth him in his bosome: Of our selves we can doe nothing to any purpose, therefore doth Christ strengthen us to do all things that he expecteth from us: That God might teach Israel to goe, He (Hos. 11.3.) took him by the armes: Jesus Christ, he knoweth that we are altogether unable to fulfill his good pleasure, wherefore he giveth us a help­ing hand; he performeth our work for us: Christ he knoweth that we are altogether de­sicient, [Page 36]that we are altogether unprofitable; therefore he putteth to his own strength, and reputeth his strength ours: Jesus Christ hath stored up grace, yea and the spirit of grace too, against the times of our need: Now that we are to run this race, he furnishes us with ointment: The wind which bloweth where it listeth, listeth to set in our backs, and to blow us forward: Holy Angels they are made our ministring spirits; and the spirit of the Lord he leadeth, he draweth us on! When the spirit of the Lord came upon Elijah, Elijah ran farr. What shall we more say? Never (never) had the plain-dealing Holy Ghost enjoyned them who obey the Gospel, so to run that they may obtain; if, having run their best, obtain they may not.

Consolation. 7 Another advantage ariseth from the Oppo­sition made against us; and this opposition is our double advantage: For,

First, the that is begotten of God, fore­knowing what an adversary he hath, will the more stoutly resist him: 1 Ioh. 5.18 he that is begotten of God keepeth himself so pure, that that wicked one toucheth him not: prae-monitus praemunitus.

Next, Esa. 30.10 Say ye to the righteous it shall goe well with him: viz. God will with the temptation find a way for thine escape; He Psal. 91.3 will deliver thee from the snare of the fowler; He Prov. 25.15 will pluck thy [Page 37]feet out of the nett; 2 Cor. 1.10 hath deliver­ed, yea and will deliver: Jesus Christ was heard in what he praied for, then when Ioh. 17.15 he petitioned, keep them from evill. Rom. 8.31 If God be for us, who can be against us? Psal. 22.11 If there be none to help, then will God be for us. Malicious the wicked one is, but touch thee he shall not; unless then when thou tramplest him under thy feet. (This is a Seventh Refuge.) We are strong, although not in our selves, in the Lord; Our power, is His might.

Consolation. 8 The Excellency of the prize, that is (wor­thily) our next Comfort.

First, It would never anger one to hazard his life for a Diadem of beauty: mean while, should we never obtain, we are but where we were; Sons of death we were, and should we fail of our Crown, we should still be but sons of death. Quae si non potuit, magnis tamen ex­cidit ausis.

Next, Let us strive to obtain, and suppose we could fail, yet, since what we could, we did, we shall not be beaten with so many stripes as negligent runners shall; I say, sup­pose we could not avoid but die we must, yet we shall not die so great a death.

Thirdly, Were it so that our labour could be in vain in the Lord, yet let none of us betray our trust: serviamus lieet non liberati; Let us continue honest, let us continue loyal, although we abide neglected.

But, Fourthly, have a respect, as well unto the assuredness, as unto the recompence of the reward; our crown is layed up, and it is lay­ed up for us; great is our reward in Heaven; rich is the prize of our high calling! The lips of an Angel would want words heavenly enough, and the tongue of an arch-angel would stammer, were it now attempting to set forth that everlasting joy, that eternal weight of glory, which (when we have run, when we have so run as we ought) we shall all of us most assuredly possess. View the prize, and desist from running who so can. This transcendent excellency of the prize may very well pass for an eighth comfort.

Consolation. 9 But our last and greatest Consolation is, The glory of our God.

First, Since the glory of our God is con­cerned, as well in our running, as in our obtain­ing, let none of Gods Elect doubt, but that, as certainly as they run, so assuredly they shall obtain. Know, it is out of love, out of free love, that Almighty God appointeth us both to obtain, and to run: Nor need I tell you, that this God of love changeth not: Ye all acknowledge, that for whom the graci­ous and merciful Lord hath a Fatherly love, them (as a Father) he loveth unto the end: Accompt upon it, that the same God, which for the glory of his free mercy enjoyneth us to run, will, for the glory of his free goodness, [Page 39]enable us to obtain. Fear not little flock, it is your Fathers good pleasure to give you a king­dom: For this very cause he doth single you out to run this race, that he may hereafter glorifie himself in exalting you unto an ex­ceeding and eternal weight of glory. How infinitely infinite is the unsearchable glory of that great God, who, unto every one that obtaineth, can bestow so rich a prize, and can make, whomsoever he pleaseth, so to run that he shall be sure to obtain?

Next, As God therefore causeth us to ob­tain the prize, that he may take delight (by glorifying himself) in advancing us; so his glory will he not give to another. From what time the old Serpent fooled and foiled Adam, that Serpent hath not ceased to blaspheme and revile our God; as if make us he could, but preserve us he could not: But let the ma­lice and the subtilty, and the power, of Satan speak and do, their worst; whomsoever the Lord reserveth to himself, preserve them he can, exalt them he will: when Satan hath layed all the snares which his revengeful ma­lice can invent, the elect of God shall run, and (running) shall obtain. True, should not the chosen of the Lord obtain the prize for which they run, the Devil would then vaunt it indeed; but, assure your selves, God stand­eth more upon his honor then so. Esa. 43.21 This people have I formed for my self, they shall [Page 40]shew forth my praise: Of every one which runneth his best, God saith, For mine own sake, even for mine own sake I will do it; I have brought him, and he, shall make his way prosperous, Esa. 48.11. Look back upon the glory of God in that Text; It is not I the om­nipotent God will, but he (he whom I have brought) shall, make his way prosperous. A Giant can make a childe overcome a strong man.

The Conclusion Hear me (ye that despair of this heaven­ly prize); In our obtaining, our God is inter­ested as deeply as are we: He is not onely of our side, but of our party: Are ye resolved to win the prize, if ye can? Know, it is Gods determination that ye shall win it, if you will: That Jesus Christ made the lame to walk, Mat. 15.31. Mark. 7.37. Jer. 33.9. it was the glory of God the Father; it is like­wise the glory of God the Father, that Jesus Christ enableth lame believers, so to run that they may obtain.

Revel. 4.11 Saints and Angels cry Thou art worthy O Lord to receive glory, honour, and power, for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are, and were, created; they were created at first, and are still created, that is, preserved. Friends, if the hous-keep­er will not give way that any idle busie-bodies shall by any meanes disappoint him of his full retinue, and of his full number of servants and attendants; then of all those whom the [Page 41]great God hath chosen to fill up the number of his hoavenly Quire, he will loose none:1 Pet. 1.5. (None) maugre all that sin or Satan shall or can doe.

Only take ye heed that ye exclude not your selves from being Kingly Priests unto our God:Revel. 1.6. The Devil, he seeketh our pendi­tion; but, as for Jesus Christ, the same minde is ever in him towards us,Phil. 4.1. Joh. 17.10, 23. which was once in St. Paul toward the Philipians; we are his dearly beloved, his longed for, his joy, and his crown: He died for us, he layeth up for us. an eternal weight of glory; Oh let him see of the travail of his soul: It is our Masters joy, Matt. 25, 21 as well as ours, if we so run that we doe obtain. Joh. 14.21. To him it is, to him it will be, a praise, a de­light, Ephes. 1.6, 12. 1 Pet. 1.7. a rejoycing, is we day by day so run through every present duty, as in sinceritie we ought.

Let them cease form running,Heb. 11.26. who forsake their own mercy; but let us (who have an eye to the recompence of reward),1 Pet. 1.2. let us (through sanctification of the spirit to obedience) so run on unto perfection,2 Thes. 2.13, 14. that we may obtain ever­lasting joy to our selves; and (what is more defireable) everlasting glory to our Lord God.

To him, even, to God the Holy Spirit, which worketh in us to will and to doe; Phil. 2.13. unto God the Son, who hath given us of his Spirit; 1 Joh. 3.24. unto God the Father, who hath given us his [Page 42]Son, Esa. 6.9. and (with his Son) all things pertaining to life, and godliness; 2 Pet. 1.3. be, the perfection of the Race set before us, the dayly comfort of dayly well running, Rom. 8.32. and the prize which we shall everlastingly obtain, with due humility, and with unfained thankfulness, for ever and ever ascribed; Amen, and Amen.