The APPLICATION of the Doctrine may be, USE 1. By way of INSTRUCTION.

Learn hence.

1. That it is a signal token of the Divine Favour to a People, when they have such men to rule over them. Their Promotion cometh not from the East or from the West &c. Psal. 75.6, 7. 'Tis God that sets them up; and His Love is to be seen in it, and ought to be acknowledged.

2. What matter of humbling it is to a People, when such are either denied unto them, or removed from them. When the Elders were ceased from the Gate, Lam. 5.14. The Prophet saith upon it. v. 16. The Crown is fallen from our Heads: when good men are taken away, it is a sad Omen; but when such good men, thus removed, were good Rulers too, it's much more ominous. Such losses are hardly repaired; therefore they are a Lamentation, and shall be for a Lamen­tation.

3. How much it concerns Rulers to be, and ap­prove themselves such men; Strong Rods; as they would not be charged with the Ruining of their Peo­ple. And, that being themselves rich Blessings, they themselves might be blessed both of God and men.

4. That, Those that are Professed Enemies to such a Government as hath Strong Rods to rule, or to [Page 41] such Rulers as these, are upon no Terms to be born withal. But I may not enlarge on these Particulars; the chief that I aim at in the Pre­sent Improvement of this Truth, shall be in two words farther.

Of Direction, and of Exhortation; USE II. Of Direction.

This Doctrine affords Excellent Counsel to all such as have the Power of Choosing, and Li­berty (by divine Providence, and the Royal favour) of Electing Persons into any Office of Civil Rule and Government among this People. And it ought to be taken no [...]ice of by you, as a necessary Direction in the work that is now be­fore you. It highly concerns you to be very careful of not abusing so great a Trust. It is a piece of Service that requires your utmost Care and Conscience. You are this day to transact a matter of great Importance to the Weal of this People: and the Eyes of God and m [...]n is upon you: Of God, to observe your Spi [...]its, Designs, and Ends in this Days wo [...]k, to bless you accordingly: and the Eyes of Men are upon you; some to rejoyce in all the happy effects that may follow your prudent choice; others to take advantage of all the follies that you may this day be guilty of. I may well conclude my self very much a Stranger to the [Page 42] particular Methods and Customs usual in the manner of your Elections: But, I suppose (what­ever steps have been already taken in other places of this Government) there are many in this As­sembly who are still to give in their Suffrage. To whom therefore I would more particularly recommend this Rule, that the Doctrine layes before us) and in them to all others, that may hereafter be concerned in the same, or like affai [...]) as that which you ought to attend to. If you would not this day, do that which will be for a Lamentation to this People, and remain so. Let your Care then be, to Elect such as may be Able for their Places, and Faithful in them. Don't think your Voices are so your own, that you may bestow them upon whom you will, meerly because you will. Let not that Li­berty you have, be abused to an undoing Licen­tiousness. Beware of those corrupt and sinister Ends, which are too too apt to blind your Judgments, and biass your Affections, from the Rule thus set before you. I shall but hint at some of them.

There are some (of plausible pretences indeed but ungoverned Spirits) who in Affairs of this nature, consult only their own Humours; and choose for such as they hope will most indulge them. These had rather they should be in Au­thority, then such as have Wisdom and Spirit to controul them; & if they have any secret Grudge against a man of Worth, besure it shall weigh [Page 43] heavier with them than all his Accomplishments.

Some are wholly Swayed by the Favour they have received from, and the Friendship and Ac­quaintance they have with these and those men; they think it but a point of Civility, to Vote for such as have been civil, kind, and obliging to them: But we ought to consider that our good Friends may be poor Patrons of the Common-Weal; they may be as bad Counsellers for the State, as Jobs were Comforters to him; Good men should have other ways to express their Gratitude to their Friends, than by the publick Injury; and (if it must needs be so) we had bet­tor disgust them, than do that which is worse.

Some don't so much consider the man, as the Party he belongs to; if he be but of such a sort or set of men, that is the principal Recommen­dation they look at; this alone is enough with them, to cover a multitude of Infirmities, and as many Sins; whereas the greatest Worth, if it be on the other side, is wholly slighted.

Some look at nothing so much as Faction, and would with their good wills, have none to sway the Scepter of Government, but such as will be sticklers for, and strenuous promote [...]s of, the Se­parate Intreagues, and private Designs, which un­der the Countenance of Authority, they hope to drive on successfully, against all that shall oppose them.

But surely these, (and all such as these) are pernicious Ends and Designs, to be abhorred by [Page 44] all those that are Well willers to the Common-Weal; and to be avoided by all that have any Interest in the Electing of Persons to any Places of Civil Power. Don't think therefore, that you have nothing to do in this Election, but to please your selves, or gratifie your Friends, or maintain a Party, and uphold a Faction; But

Remember, That God hath intrusted you with an Advantage of being Instrumental to procure Rich Blessings to this People. The Rulers that are this Day to be set over you, will be so far such, as they shall answer the Character that hath been given: And you are bound in Conscience both to God and his People, (detesting the base Ends mentioned) to pitch upon those, concerning whom, you ma [...] [...]easonably hope that they will prove accordingly.

Give me leave therefore a little more distinctly (and as briefly as I may) to open the Particu­lars of that General Rule, in a few plain Di­rections.

1. Direction. Look at Wisdom as a principal thing, and seek for men of Understanding. Solomon tells us, That by such as these a State is prolonged. Prov. 28.2. Religion commends it to us as a du­ty, and the Light of Reason as the most Excel­lent Policy. Nebuchadnezzar, though a Heathen, spake wisely, when he gave those Instructions unto Ashpenaz, concerning the Choice he was to make among the Children of the Captivi­ty, for some to be improved in Affairs of State. [Page 45] Dan. 1.4, 5. that they should be such, as were Skilful in all wisdom, cunning in knowledge, and un­derstanding Science; who were first to be instruct­ed in the Affairs that were to be committed to them, v. 4 since they were to be taught the learning of the Chaldeans, and afterwards, in the end of three years, to stand before the King, v. 5. i e. to be introduced to Service. Those that are well knowing, and versed in the con­cerns that belong to any place of Publick Trust, are most likely to do good in it. Others (per­haps) may, but when they do, it is but by acci­dent; And it is a meer chance if an unskilful Pilot escape a Shipwrack. It is knowledge that lights the way, and discovers the path of Justice; and 'tis knowledge that begets a confidence in the Administration of it. If men know the way they are in to be right, it makes them go on bold­ly in it; but if they are once at a loss, it soon disheartens them. In a word, There's the Pow­er Legislative and Executive, and neither can stand without there be wisdom to support it. The making of good and wholesome Laws, the vigo­rous and successful Execu [...]ing of them, when they are made; the maintaining of the Honour and Dignity of Government, which are all of great Importance to a Common-Weal, & principal parts of the care of Rulers; (and they are things that belong to the Wise; Prov. 24.23.) They are to be expected from none other; and therefore these only are to be entrusted with the manage­ment of them.

[Page 46]2. Direction. Account that Just men (only) will become the Seats of Justice; and that none but such are worthy to have any thing to do in the Administration of it. When the Ministers of Justice have wisdom and knowledge to inform them about the R [...]le, and Conscience to keep up to it, we may then hope, that Judgment will run down as Waters, and Righteousness as a mighty Stream. Amos 5.24. That Advice of Christ's, Mat. 10.16. is very accommodable to Rulers; They should be wise as Serpents, but harmless as Doves withal. David was eminent in his place, as well for the Integrity of his Heart, as for the skilfulness of his hands. Psal. 78.72 And in Je­thro's Advice to Moses, Exod. 18.21. He counsels him to Choose Men of Truth, hating Coveteousness, i. e. such as out of their Love of, and Zeal to Justice, would abho [...] to be temp [...]ed, either by Flattery, Bribery, of Company, (Honour, Pro­fit or Friendship) to w [...]ong their Consciences, and wrest Judgme [...]t▪ These are they that will respect not the Persons, but he Cause, and do that which is right to th [...] small [...]s well as the great: as Moses charged the Judges he set over that People▪ Deut. 1.17. Bu [...] [...] [...]hat are of unrigh­teous dishonest Principles, though they may pos­sibly sometimes do that which is just; yet it is not so, as it is done by them; nor is it reasonably to be expected from them. When the Admin­stration of Justice [...]alls into their Hands, they can­not have any greater care about it than to make [Page 47] [...]ain of it. He that will have it shall purchase [...]; and if it will not go off so, Injustice shall [...] put instead of it; to them the matter is one [...] the same, so they can but get by the Bargain.

3. Direction. Think none fit to wear the Sword Justice, but such as have Courage and Resolution, [...]d Zeal to manage it. Such as dare say with [...]avid: Psal. 75.10. All the Horns of the Wicked [...]ill I cut off, and dare, whenever there is need, [...] as good as their word. Such as are concern­ [...]d for the Honour of that Authority they are [...]ested with; and fear not to undertake whosoever [...]hall adventure to trample upon it. They abhor [...]uch a tameness of Spirit, as can endure the saw­ [...] Insolencies of such as should Honour them in [...]heir Places: And whatever Resemblance it may pretend to Patience, they know it too well to be [...]eceived by it, and justly reckon it to be an in­ [...]xcusable shameful Timorousness. These are [...]hey that know they should not, and will make all now they will not bear the Sword of Justice in [...]ain. All others are more for shew than any [...]ood Service. Be advised therefore in your [...]hoice to avoid them: Do you see any, that [...]ill be daunted with great words, or fear the fa­ [...]s of men; that will tremble at the Frowns of [...]me that can do them a diskindness, or at the [...]hreats of one that can do them a Favour, or [...]at dare not (with Phinehas) shew themselves in [...] Front, to make head against prevailing im­ [...]rious Wickedness: Never expect much of such [Page 48] men: A Sword will never do any Feats, so long as it is in a Cowards hand: And for them that hope for Defence and Protection by it, to put it into such hand as these, is (to say no worse of it) the greatest indiscretion.

4. Direction. Let the Fear of the Lord be deem­ed a principal Qualification of those that are to be entrusted with the Government. Able men are men [...]a [...]ing God. Exod. 18.21. Those that are Ruled themselves by the fear of God, will Rule others in his fear; and that is the only Govern­ment which hath the promise of a Blessing. You have been often assured (and especially by those Servants of the Lord, that have deliver­ed his message to you upon the like Occasion with this of the present day) that the main­taining of the Truths of Gods Word, in Honour and Purity; the promoting of Piety; the Pun­ishing & Suppressing of all Wickedness; are the grand Interest of a People professing the Name of the Lord; and of your selves in Particular, who have been so signally owned of God in the work of the Gospel. Let me yet once more re­new this Message to you in the words of the Prophet. 2 Chron. 15.2. The Lord is with you while you be with him [...] and if ye seek him he will be found of you, but if ye forsake him, he will for­sake you: Be ass [...]ed, that if this work dies, we shall dye with it: and that there is great danger of i [...]s dying, if th [...]se that Rule us under God, have not his Fear planted in their hearts; [Page 49] but are wholly void of any thing within that may oblige them to be true to him. Irreligious men will be no better Rulers: He that is an Enemy to his own Soul, (and so is every one that doth not fear God) He that hath no more Religion than what will serve to deceive others withal; and is (as all such are) false to the Profession that he makes of Religion; will be no better to his Countrey, whenever he thinks he may be so to his Advantage. Such as don't fear God, will easily be vassalized to the Wills of any that are greater than themselves, and can do them an Injury; these would be very corrupt Judge [...] in that case, which the Apostles dared to refer to the Consciences of their own Judges, Acts 4.14. viz. Whether it be better to obey God or men. And it may be said to such, as Tertullian of old objected to some among the Romans; Majore formidine Caesarem observatis, quam ipsum de O [...]ympo Jovem. But such as fear God, will be afraid (for that very reason) of Injuring men. They will as they are Custodes Tabularum, not only command them to be kept, and provide that due Testimony may be born against those that do not; but also they will commend the Observation of them, by a Pattern worthy of those, whose eminency ren­ders their Example more observable and more ef­fectual. In a word, This fear will influence th [...] to all Fidelity, Diligence, and Honesty, [...], Pains, and Equity. They will remember that the Judgment is the Lords▪ and if any [...] [Page 50] be wrong done by any of his Vicegerents here below, the meanest of his Subjects over whom they rule, have a fair Plea, and Prohibition lying against it in the Court of Heaven, where it shall be called over again, and Justice done them. Such Rulers as these will be Nursing Fathers indeed; and in Conscience towards God, seek the good of their People; advance the common Interest, be zealous Promoters of Piety; and all ungodli­ness they will reprove in the Gate. These are the Strong Rods; whereas from all others, there will go out a Fire, devouring all the fruit, and destroying all the comforts of a People.

5. I might add farther. Put Honour upon such as will stand firm for the Common Interest, and make the Weal of the Publick their chief Care & Business. In this case especially, they that are given to Change are not to be medled with. Prov. 24.21. In all Revolutions (that are not absolutely neces­sary for the Preservation of Justice and Equity) it is hazardable whether the Publick will not come by the loss; and when it doth, it doth not always recover it again; & that too (for the most part) a long time first: and for this reason, such as are so addicted, are to be eschewed. Yet, be­ware of thinking, that all that have been aspersed as Enemies to the Common Weal, do deserve that Character (which it may be is but the effect of some Secret Grudge of malignant men against them.) We shall be very unwise, to deprive our selves of the benefit of those, that can do God and [Page 51] their Country Service, for the Calumnies & Re­proaches, that they are laden withal by their Ig­norant and Unthankful Neighbours.

6. Again. Respect such as will adorn their Autho­rity with an Example worthy of the Dignity that they sustain. Remember that great Examples, if they be good, will confirm the weak; and if they be bad, will enervate and weaken the Strongest Laws. When it may be said to them that Rule, as once Christ said, in that case mentioned, Joh. 8.7. He that is without sin among you, let him cast the first Stone. There will either be no Punishment of Wickedness, or no Good will come of it. They are very unfit to punish others, who are them­selves Transgressors. But I omit what Particulars might be added, as being comprised in the Gene­ral Directions given: and proceed to the last,

USE. III. Of Exhortation.

In two Branches.

1. To such as are, or may this day be Elected and Established the Civil Rulers of this People. You see (Honoured and much Esteemed) wherein you may be Rich Blessings. As it is our duty inces­santly to pray God that you may be so, so also we submissively pray you that you would be so. Be you therefore intreated (whosoever you are, upon whom the over ruling Hand of the Lord shall order the Lot to fall this day) to approve your selves Strong Rods. Esteem this to be your greatest Glory; the contrary to this will be both your & our Ruin. Let the Qualifications which have at this [Page 52] time been described to you, be exemplified in all your managements; that our own Experience may teach us the happiness of a People, who are in such a case, who have Strong Rods for a Scepter to rule them. Your Ability is under God our strength; your Fidelity, our Security: If these Foundations are destroyed what shall the Righteous do? Psal. 11.3. If these Foundations are out of course, nothing will go right, or stand long among us. It is a great Trust which is this day to be commit­ted to you; your Advantages hereupon to do much for the Glory of God among his People, by going before them, and leading them in the way of the Lord, are very Eminent: And God hath answerable Expectations concerning you; you may be for a Name and a Praise unto him; (and we may be so too, by God's blessing on your Conduct.) This God expects; and this is the Hope and Prayer of such as fear the Lord among us. You have our hearty Wishes that God would be with you, as he hath been with those that are gone before you: That you may be as the Mountains that bring Peace, and as the Hills that produce Righteousness to his People: That your Wisdom, Justice, Courage, Piety, may be the safeguard of our Land, and the Stability of our Times: These are the things, which duely improved, will make you Rich Blessings. Be intreated therefore to shine in the Improvement of them. The Lord hath said, Ye are Gods, Psal. 82.6. Let these Virtues ap­pear, as inseperable Properties of your Deity: If [Page 53] you lack these things, you cannot stand, and we must fall. I might remember you of many par­ticulars by way of Motive. As,

1. You have the Care and Charge of a People whom God hath by special Favour, taken to be his own Peculiar. And such a Trust as this ought to be strenuously & faithfully discharged. The Lord our God hath by signal Protections, and a stretched out Arm, made these (once dark) corners of the earth a place of comfortable Entertainment to a Remnant of his faithful Servants, and their Seed: Here he hath intrusted us with the choise Mercies of his Word & Ordinances; we have had them & en­joyed them, in safety from all the Endeavours of such, as with an envious eye and vexed Soul, have beheld what God hath been doing for us; and though we have sadly proved our selves ungrate­ful, backsliding Children, untrue to the Interest of the Gospel, and Kingdom of Christ among us: yet Oh! how are Covenant Mercies prolonged to us? and how great are the Covenant Engage­ments and Obligations, that we are continued un­der to this Day? And what is the Lords end in all this, but that we should be holiness unto him? What doth God design, but that we should shew forth his Praises, who hath thus crowned us? What doth the Lord look for from us, but such fruit as this? And, the Honour God puts upon you, whom he makes the Rulers of his People, the Authority which he doth vest you with, is with Subserviency to this end. God hath designed the [Page 54] Civil Government of his People, to concenter with Ecclesiastical Administrations: and (though by different Mediums) they are both levelled at the same end; the maintaining of Piety, and promo­ting of a Covenant walk with him. That which is the Lords Aim in this, should be yours also; all your Conducts should center here. This is the work that belongs to you in your Publick Capaci­ties; and it calls for your Wisdom and Justice, and Zeal and Holiness; if you would be found thus ruling with God, and faithful with his Saints. Hosea 11.12.

2. Again. Do not those palpable Declensions from the way of the Lord, and Covenant Violations which we are manifestly guilty of, loudly proclaim it necessa­ry for you to bestir your selves with a holy Prudence, and Zeal for the Cause of God among us? Oh! how justly may the Lord complain of us, that we are become the degenerate Plane of a strange Vine unto him? Where is that Zeal for God and his ways? that high esteem of Gospel Priviledges; that faithful improvement of Sacred Ordinances; that Gate & Concernment for the Advancing of the Kingdom of Christ? which things were once our praise. Are not these great Interests misera­bly disregarded? And Oh! what Irreligion, Luke­warmness, Prophaness, and Immoralities, have u­surped their Room? And doth not the Lord ex­pect that the Leaders of his People should be their Reformers? You have great Examples, the Royal Presidents of Jehosaphat, Hezekiah, Josiah, famous [Page 55] in this matter, accepted and blessed of the Lord. Let this then be your great Care, to recover us a sinful sinning People, from all our Apostasies. And Oh! how much may you do, by your Wisdom & Piety, Zeal and Justice, Precept and Example, Au­thority and Awe, to awaken us, and recover us a­gain to the good wayes of God? The Good Lord strengthen you yet more and more in all your en­deavours for this; and think upon you, according to all that you have done, and shall still be do­ing for his People.

3. Further. Hath not the Lord himself been co­ming near to Judgment! and pleading with and a­gainst his People? It is obvious that God hath a Controversy with us, and He is wrath with his Inheritance. The tender mercy of God indeed doth spare us to this day, many good and plea­sant things; yet in divers respects, God hath been and is humbling us, and bringing us low. Tho we may with thankful Admiration at the Divine Goodness; say as the Psalmist, Psal. 78.38. (con­cerning the Lords Dispensations towards us) Ma­ny a time turned He his anger away, and did not stir up all his wrath; yet if we consider the Blood [...]shed, and ruinous Devastations in some Places o [...] this Land, together with the languishing State o [...] the whole Country at this Day, we may also take up the Psalmists complaint, Psal. 80.5. And say, Thou feedest us with the Bread of Tears, and gi [...]vest us Tears to drink without measure. I shall no [...] need to mention those various Rebukes of Provi [...]dence, [Page 56] (as Blastings and Mildews, Droughts, Un­seasonable Frosts of late, Sickness, & the Sword) which you have so often, in your Orders for Pub­lick Humiliation, piously directed us to take no­tice of, as Tokens of the Lords Anger; surely by these Providences God hath been loudly testify­ing against our Transgressions: And we may read in them, that of the Prophet. Jer. 5.25. Your Sins have withholden good things from you. We have a case fit and proper for us under our present Cir­cumstances to propound and consider, stated and resolved to our hand, in Deut 29.23, 24. Where­fore hath the Lord done thus unto this Land, what meaneth the Heat of this great Anger? Then men shall say, because they have forsaken the Covenant of the Lord God of their Fathers. And if this be a Day wherein the Lord is coming out against us in Judgment; Oh! How should you that are the Lords Substitutes bear witness in your places a­gainst the Transgressions which provoke him? If you are thus a Terrour to Evil Doers, it may be God will do no more terrible things in Judgment against us: If you do wisely and courageously Execute Judgment, who knows but it may divert the Lords. Phinehas did so, and the Plague was stayed, Psal 106 30.

4 You do ordinarily (I suppose I may say con­stantly) bring your selves under the Sacred Bond of a Solemn Oath, with impartiality & fidelity to discharge the Trust committed to you, and so Rule this People according to the Laws of God, and the King; than [Page 57] which nothing can be a stricter tie to those that know and believe, that the same God, whom they have thus called upon to be a witness of the sin­cerity and integrity of their hearts, in what they are undertaking; will, if they be either careless or false, not suffer them to escape his Righteous Judgment, and most severe Reflections.

5. Shall I add this one consideration further, (both to stir you up to, and strengthen you in your publick work:) It is this; You have the Roy­al Favour of a most Gracious Soveraign, whom the Divine Providence hath in a wonderful manner raised up, and hitherto preserved, to be the Bul­wark of Religion and Property, to the English Israel: We are a little Branch of that Vine; our Civil Life and Liberty is bound up in theirs; we have felt the warmth of those benign Influences, which have refreshed the wearied Land of our Fore fathers Sepulchres; and as the Prophet Eze­kiel speaks, chap. 34.27. God hath broken the Bands of the Yoke that were upon us, and delivered us out of the Hands of those that would have served themselves of us. God who hath the Hearts of Princes in his Hand, hath (whatever our Enemies have endea­voured to the contrary) given you Favour in the sight of the King: You have in this respect great opportunity and advantage to be consulting and promoting the things which will be for the Glo­ry of God, the Interest of his Kingdom, and the Weal of his People: According as it is improved▪ we may hope God will prolong it; He will not [Page 58] take it well at our hands if it be neglected. Give me leave then to say, to you that are, or may this Day be Rulers over us, as once it was said to Ezra, chap. 10.4. This matter belongeth unto you: It is your part principally to take care for the Im­provement of such an Opportunity, and ours to be with you in it. When the Lord by whom Princes rule, maketh them Nursing Fathers to his People, it openeth a wide door of Liberty and Power, to all that derive Authority from them to be in their respective places, Rods of Strength, for defending and encouraging the Good, for sup­pres [...]ng and punishing the Wicked, for promoting Piety and Righteousness; and if there be an heart wanting to improve such an advantage, we may probably repent it, when we can do nothing else.

Suffer then the Exhortation, I beseech you in the words of the Lord, which you have in Hag. 2.4. Be strong O Zerubbabel and work: Do the work of your publick Capacities, with Prudence, Honour and Fidelity: I am with you saith the Lord of Hosts. Thus if you approve your selves, it will be Honour to God, your Comfort, our Weal, and the rejoycing of all that love God & his People.

There are a few things, which I would crave your Patience (Honoured and much Respected) that I may briefly recommend unto you; as need­ful to be much in your Eyes, and upon your Hearts, if you would thus acquit your selves; & be Strong Rods to us at such a Day as this.

[Page 59]1. Let the Interest of Religion and Holiness, be your principal care: Labour the reviving and promoting of it with all your strength. This is both our Decus & Tutamen; we may truly say of this great Article, that it is, Articulus stantis et cadentis Nov. Angliae. It is this that engageth the Lord to deal graciously with his people, and to be their Saviour▪ in Isa. 63.7. When the Church had reckoned up the Loving-kindnesses of God, ma­ny ways expressed; we have in the following verse the consideration intimated, upon which the Lord proceeded in doing those great things for his people, verse 8. For he said, surely they are my People, Children that will not lie, so he was their Sa­viour; q. d. They will not be false to my Cove­nant, they will walk in my ways, and keep my Commandments, they will remember their En­gagements and fulfil them; and upon their so doing, he had and would shew them his Sal­vation. In this way they might hope for it; but if they should prove lying, unholy, backsliding Children, they would but deceive themselves to expect it. Upon this ground hath the Lord been proceeding with our Fathers in time past; and upon the same will he deal with us at this Day. If we consider the things that were at the begin­ning, when God first laid the Foundations of Gospel work in these Ends of the Earth; if we remember the Wonders of old, which we have heard, and our Fathers have told us; we may say of those Providences, whereby God through [Page 60] many Difficulties, brought a Remnant of his faith­ful People into these remote corners of the World, planted and preserved them here, as David doth, Psal. 44.7. That the Lord did it; By his Right­hand, &c. because he had a favour for them. By great Deliverances and Salvations did the Lord manifest his Presence among them, and Loving-kindness to them: and they were all upon this account▪ Psal 22.4. Our Fathers trusted in thee; they trusted, and thou didst deliver them. They had Holiness to the Lord Engraven upon their hearts, designs, and ways, and God was with them. If we are true to this Interest and Cause of God, and walk in the Covenant of the Lord God of our Fathers, it shall be well with us. Exod. 20.6. But if there be a declining, backsliding, apostati­zing Spirit in us; if we give the Lord cause to take up that Complaint concerning us, in Mal. 3.7. Even from the dayes of your Fathers, ye are gone a­way from mine Ordinances, and have not kept them. Oh! what Presumption, what Madness will it be for us to hope, that as he was theirs, so he will be our Saviour. Alas! How many are there that have forgotten & forsaken this great Interest of the Lord among us? Be you intreated therefore (who shall have the rule of this People) to consider it, and engage your hearts to the advancing of it. Remember that there is a Solemn Covenant be­tween God & this his People; God hath taken them to be his, & they have owned themselves to be the Lords; upon this Foundation stand all our [Page 61] Mercies, Priviledges, Enjoyments, & whatsoever can contribute any thing to our present or future Felicity: and therefore the recovering of us from all our Apostasies, and the maintaining & promo­ting of serious Godliness among us, should & will be the chief Scope of such Rulers, as make Con­science to Serve either God, or his People.

2. Express a high Veneration for, and Regard unto Gods holy Ordinances. Let them have all that Secu­rity from the Blasphemous Reproaches, and Abu­ses of Ungodly men, that either your Laws, or your Examples can afford them. If they that go be­fore a People go out of this way, sad Experience proves it but too natural a practice for them to follow their Leaders. So Jeroboam the son of Nebat made Israel to Sin. 1 King. 16 26. He led the Dance and he had the far greatest part of a Nation to follow him. If you dont make much of these things, others will make light of them: If you violate in never so small a Degree the Honour of Sacred things, others will be kept within no Bounds: it will be encouragement enough to them, if they have any hope to be tolerated in their prophaness; but it will be much more, if they have such as should punish it for a President.

3. Labour to settle prudent Methods for the trans­mitting of the publick Gospel Worship unto the Rising Generation, upon as firm and lasting Foundations as may be. There is nothing in the World, that we ought to be more concerned to leave to Posterity. If any thing in order to this, may be done by the [Page 62] Legislative Power among us (which I submit to your most serious consideration) we may be sure it will be a good Improvement of it. We shall never lose by what we lay out for that Interest of Christ's Kingdom; but the starving of this Interest, hath brought a Curse upon a People. Mal. 3.9, 10, 11, 12. And because many of the Passages in this Text do so directly point at ma­ny of the Lords humbling Dispensations to­wards us, I cannot but mention it at large, Ye are Cursed with a Curse, for you have robbed me, even this whole Nation. Bring ye all the tithes into the store-house, that there may be meat in mine house, & prove me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven▪ & pour you out a bles­sing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it. And I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes: & he shall not destroy the fruits of your ground, neither shall your vine cast her fruit before the time in the field, saith the Lord of hosts. And all Nations shall call you bles­sed: for ye shall be a delightsome land, saith the Lord of hosts. Whatever Policy was in it, it was one of Jeroboams Sins. 1 King. 13.33, 34. That he took of the lowest of the People, and made them Priests: And certainly it will be found a Sin too, when a course is taken to make those that are separated to the Service of God, the meanest among a People. To prevent which, tho' some things may have been worthily done, yet it is well worthy our Considera­tion, whether the Experience we have had of the unsuccesfulness of those measures that have been [Page 63] already taken, doth not call for something farther to be done: And the sad pass things of this nature are already come to in some places, doth awaken to as quick a dispatch as may be. How long the price (the Liberty & Authority for this) which you now have, will be in your hands, the Lord only knoweth: And besides, when things are once going down hill, the further they go, the harder it is to stop them. We may rationally look that if what is amiss in a matter of so great Concernment as this, both to our selves and ours, be not rectified speedily, it will grow worse and worse, and be beyond all Remedy at last.

4. Be a swift witness against the Crying Sins and fearful Abominations that Defile the Land. When the Providence of God hath brought such wick­edness to Light, let it not be smoothered, but brought out to condign Punishment. You are God's Vicegerents, and should in this Imitate him, who saith, Mal. 3.5. I will be a swift witness against the Sorcerers, and against the Adulterers, and against false Swearers, &c. The Lord hath set you up to be a Terrour to Evil Doers; consider then upon what account God hath a Controversy with the Inhabitants of the Land. Let not your Eye pity, nor your Hand spare those that dare declare their Sin as Sodom, when the Land is mourning because of the Iniquities that abound in it. There is (to mention a few things) Idleness, Pride, Falshood, Contention, Backbiting and Slander, Prophanation of Gods Sacred Name, and Holy Day, Uncleanness, Un­righteousness, [Page 64] either by Fraud or Force, in our common dealings one with another: Drunkenness, and the pro­pagating of that Sin (for filthy Lucres sake) a­mong the Heathen, who are therefore justly the Rod of Gods Anger against us at this Day; Are not these some of our crying Sins? They are Sins which God hath often warned us of, long humbled us for; yea, and for these, is not the Hand of the Lord stretched our against us still? For the Lords sake therefore, for your own sakes, and for ours, Do you that have the Sword of Ju­stice in your Hands, strike at, and spare not these Transgressions: Let the wholesome Laws already provided against them be fearlesly. Executed; & if need be, let stricter be made; let every thing be done that can be done, to root out this Wick­edness.

5. In matters of Judgment, or respecting the Ad­ministration of Justice; be not easy in crediting Re­ports, especially when they are made out of Place, Order, and Season. The simple saith Solomon, be­lieveth every word, but the Prudent man looketh well to his going. Prov. 14.15. The Judgment may ea­sily be forestalled. Prov. 18.17. He that is first in his own Cause seemeth just. It is no hard matter to contrive a fair Tale, and to make that seem just, which is very unrighteous; but it behooves there­fore such as sit in Judgment, e're they credit it, to search it out. It is the Honour of a King to search out a matter. Prov. 25.2. And Prudence to sift out and discover the Truth, (if there be but a [Page 65] Conscience to judge accordingly) will be found the Ornament and Glory of those that are upon the Seat of Justice.

6. Be impartially just to all that have occasion to seek for Justice at your Hands. When you have heard the Cause, judge according to the merit of it. Remember what the Psalmist saith, Psal. 75.2. When I shall receive the Congregation, I will judge uprightly. None have (ordinarily) more or grea­ter Temptations to Injustice, than those that have the dispensing of Justice in their hands; avoid them carefully. These snares are some of them more obvious, and can take none but such as are willing to be caught; some are more out of view, and therefore most to be feared and watch'd a­gainst, by those that have a Principle of Justice in them. There's a sort of Bribery more gross by gifts; & there's another sort more private & subtil, when men by secret arts and flatteries do whee­dle and insinuate themselves into the Affections; which, whensoever it takes, is as great a disho­nour to the Dignity of Magistracy, and tends as much to the corruption of Judgment, and per­verting of Justice and Right, as any. By this means, a man may for less than a piece of Bread, buy Injustice enough to starve and ruin his ho­nest Neighbour. Again, there are some, who would perhaps baulk at the grosser Temptations of Flattery or Bribery, who may be unawares snared by others; and do very unjustly, when they are far from suspecting it. They may be [Page 66] readily drawn away, to decline after many to wrest Judgment, which we are warned against. Exod. 23 2. They may be too easily moved in their Affections, and ready to shew Indulgence to Offenders, when it consists neither with Piety, nor Justice. But, Remember always; that with you there ought to be no such respect of Persons. Prov. 24.23. Be deaf to the cries of the Poorest, when they can't be heard without wrong to Ju­stice: and regard not the Clamours of the Migh­ty to the prejudice of Truth.

7. In animadverting upon Offences committed a­gainst good and wholesome Laws, hold a steady course of Punishment: To neglect which, makes the Ti­morous grow venturesome and presumptuous, & the presumptuous grow more fearless. I shall not dispute how far it may be lawful for Rulers to par­don Offenders; it is but seldom that Subjects have reason to complain upon this score; the Severity of Rulers, not their Lenity is mostly blamed: Yet it can­not be denied, but that when the Powers that are, do degenerate into a coldness and remissness in pu­nishing Delinquents; into an easiness of bearing with insolent & proud Offenders; it giveth as deep, not to say, a deeper wound to the Weal of the State, than an excess on the other hand would. It is a mighty discouragement to the well willing and obedient, when they see those that trample upon the Laws, escaping the penalty of them; it, also hardens the Disobedient and Rebellious; the hope of escaping will make men venture; and at [Page 67] length they will grow to such an height of In [...]lence, as will not be contented with any thing [...] than trampling upon the Authority that hath [...] attempted, or shall attempt to curb them. It [...] well said by Seneca of a Prince, Paenam, si tuto [...] terit, donet. i.e. If he can do it not only with his [...] private, but with the publick safety also. It oug [...] to be considered in the pardoning of Offender, that one main end of the Law is, Salus Populi, [...] Publick Good; which lieth chiefly in preservi [...] the Authority of the Laws, preventing Injuri [...] and securing mens Rights, as also in vindicati [...] of his or their Dignity and Honour, who [...] care of the Common-Weal; and where that [...] may in these ways be promoted withal, it [...] not be unmeet that Lenity should be exercis [...] ▪ But to pardon Offences, purely out of hope [...] win Offenders, (which is the fairest pretenc [...] imprudent men) without considering whether Publick will not sustain more damage other [...] than it can be profited by t [...]e amendment of [...] Offenders, if they should chance to be wor [...] very absurd and foolish.

8. Do your utmost to remove every thing that [...] the appearance of Deceit and Falshood in it, as [...] it is possible, from all Affairs pertaining to the Ad [...]stration of Justice. It is a sad thing, when [...] comes a Ruled Case with those that have too in such Pleadings as are proper for Courts [...], that it is but a venial matter, to aver [...] thing, be it never so wrong, if they can but [...] [Page 68] [...]serve the Cause which they have undertaken. [...]nd when such as are paid for their speaking, are [...] basely mercinary, as to speak more according [...] their Fee, than their Consciences; it is a horrid [...]ctice, not to be tolerated by such whose busi­ [...]ss it is to search the matter, and discover the [...]uth. These ought to be frown'd upon, and [...]ers countenanced. Prov. 16.13. Righteous Lips [...] the delight of Kings, and they love him that spea­ [...]h right. They that croud in their Opinions, [...] colour of being Amici Curiae, are no ways [...] be allowed of, if they notoriously appear to be [...]stitiae Inimici. If silence be but a moderate Pe­ [...]ce to be Enjoyned those that have not wit e­ [...]ugh to speak to the Case: Cer [...]inly, it is as [...] and fitting for those that have not honesty e­ [...]gh to speak the truth in it. And if wise men [...] have patience enough to bear with the folly [...] the former; yet good Rulers should have more [...]nscience than to bear with the wickedness of [...] latter.

[...]. Consult the Honour of Government and maintain [...] There are few things that do more conduce [...]he good of a Common Weal. It was a cala­ [...]ous Day in Israel mentioned, Isa. 3.5. when [...] Base rose up against the Honourable. And [...]as a time when they had no Strong Rods to [...] them; when such abuses as these are not [...] reflected upon, the very Authors of them [...] fault with it. For when they intrench upon [...] Honour of Authority, they know it is a Mis­demeanour, [Page 69] which may not be tolerated; they know themselves blame worthy enough, but they secretly think also, that you who should punish such intolerable Injuries to the Publick are more to blame in suffering them to escape unpunished And it may be they are not herein much mista [...]ken. Well, Let them never have occasion fo [...] such a Calumny; keep a strict hand over them easy methods were never calculated for such un [...]grateful turbulent Spirits; Peri [...] quod facis Ingrat [...] All Gentleness is utterly lost upon them.

10. When any Publick Trust is committed to other that are in Inferiour Places of Power, see to them tha [...] they do their Duty faithfully. Their Neglects an [...] Male doings are among men commonly charge [...] to your Account, who sit [...], and have the ad [...]vantage of inspecting and seeing that things ar [...] carried in a right Channel: And indeed, the [...] will be reputed yours in the sight of God too; [...] through carelessness you don't look after them, [...] through Favour wink at them.

11. Arm your selves with Courage. Think ofte [...] of Davids words to Solomon. 1 King. 2.2. Be tho [...] strong, and shew thy self a man: And of Jehosapha [...] Charge to his Judges. 2 Chron. 19.11. Deal Cour [...]giously. To rule over men in the Fear of God is a work that will meet with no slender oppos [...]tion. You must expect to have to do with Sons [...] Belial; and the man that toucheth them must [...] fenced with Iron, and the Staff of a Spear (we appointed & fearless.) Whatever Difficulties the [...] [Page 70] [...] attending this work, yet it is the Lords; and [...]ch as he calls to Execute it, must neither shrink [...]ack for them, or turn aside in the least. Every Common Wealth will have some Filth and Of­ [...]ouring in it, tho' never so much pains be taken [...] keep it neat; and it is no easy thing to cleanse [...]. There are Beasts of Prey, that live by catch­ [...]g and devouring, to be found in the best and [...]ost orderly Polities in the World. And these [...] they can't be chased away, yet their Jaws must [...]e broken; and the Prey plucked out of their [...]eeth. This belongs to you; so did Job, chapt. [...]9.17. And it argued that he had an Heart un­ [...]aunted. Resolve thus to do in the Fear of God, [...]nd he will strengthen you.

12. Consider the Circumstances of the present Day, [...] as to be in Prudence providing against any threatned [...]vil. Among other of the sore Judgments of God, whereby it is a Day of treading down in [...]he Valley of Vision, that of the Sword is one. [...]nd tho' considering it as the Rod of Divine An­ [...]er, it behooveth us to be deeply humbled under [...]; yet considering it as in the Hand of an unjust [...]nemy, in whose Heart it is only to destroy as is [...]id of the Assyrian Enemy, Isa. 10.7. And so it [...] a Duty both natural and religious to arm a­ [...]ainst it. It is good Policy even in a Time of [...]eace, to follow Davids steps, who commanded [...]at the Children of Judah should be taught the [...] of the Bow. 2 Sam. 1.18. And certainly to [...] deficient in this point, when the noise of War [Page 71] is in our streets, will be very unpardonable To be unprovided and secure too, at such a time, is a notable Judgment. God forbid we should trust to our Bow, to our Skill, or to any arm of Flesh whatsoever, (we have as little pretences for it as any People under the Sun) yet it behooves us to be up and providing for our selves; and wherein we may to be up and doing for the succour of others. We have many more instances than that of Laish, to warn us of the Fate of those that dwell carelesly and at quiet, in a time of danger. Yet it is well worthy our noting, what is said in that case, as giving us one great reason of that Securi­ty. Judg. 18.7. There was no Magistrate in the Land, that might put them to shame in any thing. You know also, who were cursed for their Slug­gishness and Backwardness to jeapord themselves in the High Places of the Field, to help the People of the Lord against the Mighty. Judg. 5.23. You know the Distresses of the Eastern Parts of the Country; You frequently hear of the barbarous Cruelties of those Heathenish Miscreants that shed the blood of the Lords People; I need not mind you of the Danger of our Sea Coasts; the God of all Wisdom direct you, that are our Leaders, and the Captains of his Inheritance, that you may discern the Times; and know what may be re­quisite for our own safety; and how far it may be Duty for us, to expose and put our selves for [...]ward in the Defence of the Common Interest o [...] God's People in this Wilderness. That this Rui [...] [Page 72] may not be advanced by any Neglect of ours, or be under your Hand.

13. Study Unity in your Councils, Proceedings, and in all your Managements. You know the familar similitude, whereby the Strength and Power of Concord is usually Illustrated. A Bundle of Rods; they can't be broken, while they are taken toge­ther, but are easily snap'd asunder when they are severed. Vis unita fortior, is an old Maxim and true. Divide & Impera was hellish Policy from the Beginning; and it is that which the World is throughly versed in now a days. Let your Agree­ment defeat the hopes of all that may thus attempt to practise upon you. A Harmony in your Coun­cils and Determinations, is the best way to be an­swered with another in our Obedience.

14 Be often recommending your selves in all the Af­fair [...] especially) proper to your Places, unto the Lord by earnest Prayer for his Assistance and Blessing. He is a God of Wisdom, Justice, Power and Holi­ness; would you be Strong Rods, for the Defence and Rule of his People, by Faith lay hold on his Strength, and he will make you so. You have been used thus to wait upon the Lord, go on still. Beg the Lords Direction, Influence, Blessing Do it heartily, and he who hath made you ours, will be your Guide; He will be with you, and make you the Repairers of our Breaches, the Restorers of our Paths. Isa. 58.12. exceeding great Blessings [...]o his Distressed People.

2. The second Branch of the Exhortation concerns [...] all, who are the Body of this People.

[Page 73]If it be such a Priviledge to have Strong Rods for Scepters to rule us; and if the want of such cannot but be of fatal Consequence; then How much doth it concern us to endeavour wherein we may the Procurement and Preservation of such a Publick Blessing? We consult our own Good, and (which ought to be as dear to us) the good of our Posterity, when we do so. Be you then exhorted, for your own sakes, and for their sakes, to mind this thing. That Civil Liberty of Election, which you are this day assembled to exercise, doth advantage many of you to be in this Respect, eminently Serviceable to the Publick Weal; let it then be wisely improved. Remem­ber the Directions that have been given you, and act in the fear of God; that by the Blessing of the most High upon your prudent endeavours, we may have no such cause as the Prophet in our Text, of Lamentation. And as you especially have a great Advantage to procure it; so we have all of us a great Interest in such a general Blessing, and are joyntly concerned to do all we can to advance this Common Felicity. There are many things which for this end God expects of us all, our neglect of which (whatever prudent methods, the most Sufficient and Able men may take to prevent it) will certainly involve us in a most inevitable Ruine. There may be Maladies in the Body which▪ if they be not speedily heal­ed, will ruin the head and all. Whatever the advantages are which Rulers have to promote the Peoples good, & whatever Pains they take to improve them, yet Rulers themselves, are but Second Causes, and will fail in their endeavours, and of their Aims, as God shall with-hold his Blessing: and that God oftentim [...]s doth, as a just Punishment of the Peoples Sins. When any Detriment befals the State, it is common for the Ministers of it to bear the Blame; when as they many times least deserve [Page 74] it. For, if there be an Ungrateful, Murmuring, Proud Spirit, a Mutinous, Envious and Rebellious Spirit, an Irreligious Spirit Prevailing among a People; it is not all the Counsels of the Wisest, nor Understand­ing of the Prudent, nor Conduct of the most Sufficient men, that can keep off Ruin from them. Such a People may be miserable, do their Rulers what they can. It was not King J [...]siahs Piety or Prudence (however at the present it laid some kind of Restraint upon them) that could divert the approaching lamentable Fate of that Stubborn Sinful People he had the rule of. If there be never so skilful a Hand at H [...]lm, the Ship that will not feel her Helm, may stave upon the Rocks, or Strand up­on the Shore at last. There is much of the Success of Government depending upon the suitable becoming be­haviour of the People under it. And this is it which we are all Exhorted to at this time. Strong Rods are Rich Blessings: God hath a Favour for that People on whom he bestows them. But then we must remember the Te­nure by which a People so Priviledged do hold them; It is the same with that on which they have received their Au­thority from God. Viz Quamdiu bene se gesserint. When a People fail of their Duty, and carry it unwor­thily under the Command & Conduct of such Rulers; God hath wayes enough to discharge them; to take them from such a People; or (if [...]he doth not so, yet) to cause that they shall not profit them.

For the Prevention of which, I have but these few words to offer, and so shall close.

Are Able and Faithful Rulers such Rich Blessings, and would we contribute to this our Happiness. then,

1. Let us be thankful to God for such Mercies. When the Lord gives Kings to be Nursing Fathers to his Peo­ple, as he promiseth, Isa 49 23. Should not the Praise [...] of the Lord resound throughout all the Gates of the [Page 75] [...]ughter of Zion? Do we also see such advanced to [...]bordinate Places of Power? Let us remember, that [...] Promotion is from God; It is He that sets them up. [...]al. 7 5 6, 7. They are of Him: Rom. 13.1. And by Him [...]ey Ru [...]e: Prov. 8.16 We cast the Lot, but the Lord that [...] on High, hath the whole disposing of it. Prov. 16 33. [...] that our Choice is also of Gods Appointment; If [...]ey be of our desiring, they are of His giving And as [...]hen others bear rule over a People, it is a Signal of [...]ods Displeasure, under which they ought to Mourn; [...] when our Rods are Strong, it is a Fruit of the Lord's [...]avour, and He ought to have the Praise. In Psal. 72. [...]fter the Psalmist had in a Prophetical Contemplation [...]elebrated the happy State of the Common-Weal of [...]rael, in a Day when they enjoyed the Blessing, which [...] Doctrine speaks of (for the Glory of which Felicity [...] is considered as a Type of Christ's Kingdom) closeth [...] with Repeated Acclamations of Praise and Honour [...] God, as the Authour of it, at v. 18.19. Blessed be the Lord God, the God of Israel, who only doth wondrous things. And blessed be his glorious Name for ever, and let the who [...]e [...]arth be filled with his Glory: Amen & Amen.

2. Let us highly Prize and Honour them. That Pre­ [...]ept the Apostle with Reference to Rulers Ecclesiasti­ [...]al, is of as great Force in this case. 1 Thes 5.13. Where [...]e chargeth us to esteem them that are over us, very [...]ighly; and undervalued Mercies are not like to be long continued. Consider it and be Wise. We have not many such to spare; certainly then, it is our Prudence and Interest not to provoke the Lord to remove them. Again, let our high Esteem of them, be testifyed by an [...]onourable Deference towards them: The Apostle Paul [...]aith concerning them. Rom. 13.7. That Honour is to be rendred them. They are Gods, Psal. 82.6. And as such [Page 76] there is a Civil Worship and Reverence due to them, both in Word & Action. Speak no Evil of Dignities; Abhor that Unchristian way of Detraction, Backbiting and Slander. If they are God's Vicegerents, certainly it must be a Crying Sin and Shame for us thus to treat them. Do our Enemies charge us, that this is the way wherein we have been used to requite those that with greatest Pains, have travailed for the Publick good? Let us refute this Slander; and if we can do no more, yet at least, Let us Love & Honour such as have Rule over us.

3. Take we Care that we don't make them, or provoke them to be other wise. As they are sometimes Accessory to our Sins, when they either connive at us doing them, allow us in them, or indulge us afterwards; so shall we be to their Male Administrations, if we seek to corrupt, discourage, pervert, and dis [...]hearten, or any way weaken them. There was a very Laudible Spirit in the People when they said to Ezra Chap. 10.4. Arise, This matter belongeth unto thee, we also will be with thee; be of good Courage & do it. And that matter did accordingly Suc­ceed very ha [...]ily. But when there is a perverse Spirit of Dislike and Contradiction in us, to thwart the Coun­sels, and controul the Methods, of such as are intrusted with the Care of the Publick: if those Counsels prove abortive, and those Methods vain, it is no more than may reasonably be expected, and we may thank our selves for it.

4. I shall not exceed the Bounds of my Commission, (and I hope neither those of your Patience) if I put you in Remembrance, That you be Subject to those that are set over you. St Paul left this in Charge with Titus re­specting his Cretians, Tit. 3 1. And it is a Duty as Obvi­ous to the light of Nature; so also, positively enjoyned us in the Word of God. Eccl. 8.2. I Counsel thee to keep the Kings Commandment, and that in regard of the Oath of

[Page 77]What can be more Express than that of the A­ [...]tle Peter. 1 Pet. 2.13, 14. Submit your selves to every [...]inance of man, for the Lords sake, whether it be to the [...] as Supreme, or unto Governours, as unto them that [...] sent by them. The General Precept of Obedience, [...] Apostle doth here particularly apply, with Respect [...] Degrees of Authority, both Supreme & Subordinate: [...] so plainly declareth it to be the Mind of God. v. 15. [...] so is the Will of God: That a man must Violate [...] & Conscience to gain say it The Apostle Paul [...] the same Duty, in his Epistle to the Romans: Chap. [...] 1. Let every Soul be subject unto the higher Powers. And [...] that the Christians Obligation thereunto hath its [...]ginal from a Power, which no man can dispure but [...] is utmost Peril. v. 2. Whosoever therefore resisteth the [...], resisteth the Ordinance of God; and they that resist, [...] receive to themselves Damnation. We might argue [...], as the Apostle doth in the Context. v. 4. From the [...]mmon good, which shall then flourish, when there is [...]pirit of Wisdom, Prudence & Judgment in those that [...], & of Subjection in others: & upon this Account, [...] must needs be Subject (as the Apostle adds v. 5.) [...] for wrath, but for Conscience sake. There are but [...] things that can rationally be pretended, to dispense [...] this Obligation: The First is, when the Commands [...] do cross the Will of God. And the Second is, [...] the Authority commanding is not Legal. As to First. It is a ruled Case, Act. 5.29. God is to be obeyed [...] than men. Active Obedience is due, where it may with a safe Conscience; else not: yet here, All en­ [...]vours are to be carefully used, to assure our selves, the Repugnancy which we conceive to be between [...] Divine & Humane be not onely in our Imagina­ [...]; for otherwise, while we pretend to obey the Lord, [...]efusing Obedience unto men, we shall be found [Page 78] (which without doubt is the unhappy Condition of some) disobedient both to God & man. As to the latter. viz The [...]llegality of the Authority Commanding: I shal [...] only say, That whatever disputes there may be, about the various Methods that are in use among men, for the Desig [...]nation of Persons to Places of Authority; or about tho [...] that are Vested with Authority, whether they came righ [...]fully by it or no; certainly, they that have the Libert [...] of Electing their own Rulers, have the least Reason [...] insist upon this Objection, against such as are of their ow [...] Choice; or to hope that it will excuse, and be a [...] for their Disobedience

5. Remember how expresly God hath required us, that [...] should [...]ield them the Honour of Maintainance, as well [...] that of Respect & Obedience And that there might be [...] less room for Dispute in a point which an avaritious [...] niggardly World, would be so ready to callin questio [...] We have not only the Command it self, but the Rea [...] of it annexed. Rom. 13.6, 7. For this cause pay you Tribu [...] also, for they are Gods Ministers, attending continually [...] this very thing. Render therefore to all their dues, Tribute whom Tribute is due, Custom to whom Custom. Yea, we ha [...] this Duty enforced upon us, by the express Precept [...] Christ himself Mat 22.21. Render therefore unto Caes [...] the things which are Caesars. And our blessed Saviour [...] rather to work a Miracle (whatever might have [...] pleaded for his own exemption) than omit the Duty offend by not doing it; as you may see, Mat 17 26, 2 [...] And if it were not for those natural Seeds of Rebellio [...] which every man is the worse for, it would be a wo [...]der that so plain a Precept and Duty should be so [...] regarded. And certainly, it will be as great a wonde [...] if that Governm [...]nt that wants this Honourable Suppo [...] doth not finally sink under its own Burthen, with [...] that depends on it.

[Page 79]6 Beware of Murmuring and Faction. God is highly [...]ispleased with it; and can easily make us know it. We [...] ever to remember, that the condition of persons, as [...]ell as State of Affairs here below, won't admit of Per­ [...]ction: and should consider that the Ablest Rulers on [...]arth are men of many Infirmities, and subject to mis­ [...]oing as well as others. If they miss it in some things, [...]et if in the main they are right, we have reason [...]o bless [...]od for it; and not to be dissatisfied: If we be, the more [...]ou [...] sin; and whoever gets by it, we are like to be [...] ▪ They that are pleased with nothing that is pre­ [...]nt, but are given to Change, when they have what they [...]esi [...]d, do seldom sit easy under it. It was such a per­ [...]erse humour among the People of Israel, that occasion­ [...]d a Revolution in the Dayes of Samuel, which we read [...] 1 Sam 8 But when it was eff [...]cted; they [...]hat pro­ [...]ably did as much desire it as any, soon thought they [...]ad little cause to boast of it. 1 Sam▪ 10.27. But the [...]hildren of Belial said, How shall this man save us! & [...] despised him.

7▪ Address the Throne of Grace in their Behalf, & pray [...]r [...]estly, that God in mercy both to them and us, would [...]ant them a Spirit of Wisdom and Judgment, Zeal and [...]oliness, and make them men after his own heart, that they [...]ay rule us in the fear of God. 1 Tim. 2 1, 2. St. Paul Ex­ [...]orts to this Duty. This indeed is to consult our grea­ [...]st Good: We may then hope to lead quiet & peaceable [...], as he speaks, v 2 Thus if we do, God will own [...]; for as in v. 3. This is good and acceptable in the [...]ght of our God and Saviour.

8 Finally; Let us put away all Iniquity far from us, & [...] in the Fear of God. It is an awful Judgment not to [...]ave Strong Rods for Scepters to Rule us: Our Sins merit

The Lord sometimes threatens thus to punish the I­ [...]iquity of his people: When Israel had degenerated, & [Page 80] their Religion was become Formality, their Devotio [...] Hypocrisy, [...]he Lord saith, Isa. 29 14— The wisdom their wise m [...]n shall perish. Thus Samuel threatens [...] people [...]: 1 Sam 12 25. But if ye shall still do wicked ye sha [...]l be consumed, both ye and your King When the Lo [...] forsak [...]s those that have th [...] Rule of his people, no wo [...]der if we have cause to complain, as in Isa. 3.12. [...] which lead thee cause thee to cry; but the Rise of this m [...]chief is oftentimes in the wickedness of the people [...] when God left David to sin in numbring the People [...] Sam 2 4 1. [...] is said it was because Gods Anger was [...] against Israel; and you know what it is that kindle [...] it: Think often often then of Samue [...]s advice to the people [...] Israel, [...]ow they might obtain the Favour of God, upo [...] their Rulers, and upon themselves. 1 Sam 12.24 [...] Fear the Lord and Serve him in truth with all your hea [...] If there [...] such a heart in us, if we will fear the Lo [...] and walk [...] humbly with him; If we will deny Ungod [...]ness, and Serve the Lord in Truth, and with all [...] hearts; we may then hope that our Rods shall be [...] and that th [...]se whom God shall this Day Set over [...] shall be greatly blessed of the Lord, and be rich B [...]ssings unto us.

To Conclude. Let us now look up to God, each of us in [...] Respective Places, to give us Understanding in these things: [...] is wanting & what is weak among us, let us all as we are [...], consider: Let us beg of God to supply us with what is lack [...] & let us be watchful, & strengthen the things that remain; if don't [...]o so, the Prophet tells us what we may conclude; [...] Not [...]nly that it is now, but will still be more & more for a [...]. And to add no more; if thi [...] course be not take [...] us; I dare say, that whatever Blessings of this kind, whereof have heard at this time, are yet remaining among us, They soon be removed into Corners; and the Places that know [...] now, shall know them no more.