I. IT cannot be challenged as a Claim of Justice.

IF the revolted Posterity of Adam were to appear at the Tribunal of Justice, they must be covered with the greatest Confusion, and in­evitably receive the Sentence of eternal Death. If God should enter into Judgment with Sinners, all must be condemned to remediless Destruc­tion. The Honor of the divine Government requires that the Transgression of the Law be punished with impartial Severity. The infinite Perfection of the Deity renders Sin the Object of his immutable Aversion: This He will [...]or­ [...]rv [...] discover to the View of the whole intelli­gent [Page 21] Creation. If therefore Almighty Grace had not contrived a Way to answer the De­mands of Justice, every Sinner of the human Race must have fallen a Sacrifice to it's righ­teous Claims.—That Justice which expelled the apostate Angels from the Happiness of Heaven, would have condemned rebellious Man to the Torments of Hell—Angels and Men united to reject the Authority of the Great God, and deserved the same Punishment.—That Men are Prisoners of Hope, and fallen Angels delivered over to final Despair, is not the Claim of Justice, but the Work of distinguishing Grace.—This pities Criminals condemned to Death, freely forgives their Offences, and restores them to Favor.

II. As Salvation is not a Claim of Justice; neither can it be acquired by the Powers of unregenerate Nature.

FOR Human Nature in it's present degenerate State is deeply and universally corrupted: Not only averse to that which is spiritually good, but fatally inclined to that which is evil —When God descended from Heaven to survey the State of the moral World—This is the melancholy Report—The Thoughts and Imaginations of Mens Hearts are evil, only evil, and that conti­nually.—In conformity to this divine Testimony St. Paul, who learnt his Divinity in the School of Heaven, declares that of ourselves we are [Page 22] insufficient for so much as a good Thought— If insufficient to think a good Thought, then certainly incapable to perform a good Action. Our BLESSED SAVIOR assures us, that a bad Tree cannot bring forth good Fruit; nor a corrupt Fountain send forth salutary Streams.

UPON this Plan the most inlightned Teachers of the Christian Church have always maintained, that the Performances of unregenerate Sinners don't recommend them to the especial Favor of God, nor give them a Claim to the saving Gifts of his Holy Spirit. A diligent Cultiva­tion of our rational Powers—a Life conducted by the Precepts of moral Virtue, adorn the Characters of Men and render them Blessings to Civil Society: But they cannot be accepta­ble to God, when they flow from a carnal Mind, which an inspired Apostle declares is Enmity to God.

MEN who are favored with divine Revelation certainly enjoy Advantages superior to those who have no other Instructor than the Light of Nature;—but these will be ineffectual to our Salvation, if not accompanied with the internal Operations of the Spirit. The Word of God may sound in our Ears, and not penetrate our Hearts.—Let the Law proclaim it's formidable Curses, we shall be deaf to it's alarming Voice —Let the Gospel publish it's gracious Invita­tions, we shall be unaffected with it's delightful [Page 23] Sound—Let the Ministers of CHRIST lift up their Voices like Trumpets, and address their Hearers with all the Charms of Coelestial Elo­quence, they labor in vain, and spend their Strength for nought, if these Means are not attended with a divine Influence. It is the Prerogative of Omnipotent Grace to open the Eyes of the Blind, unstop the Ears of the Deaf —communicate a Principle of Life to those who are dead in Trespasses and Sins, and incline them to walk in the Way that leads to eternal Salvation.

WITHOUT this, the Light of Nature with all it's Improvements; the Law with all it's Precepts; the Gospel with all it's transporting Discoveries; will be a Savor of Death unto Death: We shall remain under the Dominion of Sin: The Advantages we enjoy will only serve to increase our Guilt and render us in­excusable at the Tribunal of Justice.

IF the Improvement of our natural Powers, or the Advantages of external Revelation were sufficient for our Salvation—why was the Spirit sent down to inlighten the Minds of Men, and sanctify their Souls?—We must then certainly conclude, the Powers of human Na­ture are too weak, and all external Advantages insufficient, to produce any saving Effect. The Grace of God must triumph over the Weak­ness of Men, or Sinners would perish in their Corruption and Misery. I add,

III. WE are not made Partakers of this Sal­vation as the Reward of our good Works.

MANY profess an high Esteem for the in­spired Scriptures, and acknowledge that Grace is a necessary Assistant to frail and fallible Man: But they depend on the Sincerity of their Hearts, the Purity of their Intentions, the Re­gularity of their Lives, to recommend them to this important Blessing. They compliment God as the Author of their Salvation; but think their own virtuous Dispositions are essen­tial Qualifications to prepare them for the Re­ception of so great a Good.—Thus they form a Scheme plausible to human Reason— soothing to the natural Vanity of our Minds— but subversive of the established Order of Salvation.

IT is universally allowed, that all who are saved, are created anew in CHRIST JESUS unto good Works, and diligently endeavor to walk in the Practice of them.—But then this is a certain Consequence, not a previous Condition, of an Interest in the Salvation of the Gospel. We must be delivered from the Dominion of Sin, before we can perform the Duties of acceptable Obedience. Jesus saves us from the Hands of Sin and Satan, our spiritual Enemies, that we may be qualified to serve God in Holi­ness and Righteousness. The Giver of all Good will not alter his Plan, to gratify the Pride of [Page 25] unhumbled Nature, and accommodate Himself to the Schemes of human Invention.—The only Question to be decided is this—Is an In­terest in Christ and his Salvation freely given— or conferred as the Reward of some antecedent Goodness?—Our Master has determined the Poin [...], and methinks his Authority should silence all Disputes—Let us hear the unerring Teacher of the Christian Church and submit to his sacred Dictates. As the Branch cannot bear Fruit of itself except it abide in the Vine, no more can ye, except ye abide in me. To abide in Christ must certainly imply that we are united to him, and that this Union remains undissolved. This we are assured is a requisite Preparation to our bringing forth Fruit, or per­forming any good Work. If it were needful to add any thing further, I might adduce the express Testimony of St. Paul, Not by Works of Righteousness which we have done, but ac­cording to his Mercy he saved us, by the Wash­ing of Regeneration and the Renewing of the Holy Ghost.

I. LET us examine, whether we have that Faith, which is the unfailing Character of the People of God—a certain Evi­dence that we are made Partakers of the blessings of Salvation.

HAVE I been made sensible of my Sinfulness and Misery; the Corruptions of my Heart, as well as the numberless Pollutions of my Life; of the infinite Evil as well as destructive Conse­quences of Sin?—Men may talk of free Grace with seraphic Eloquence, and flatter them­selves with a pleasing Dream, that they are the Favorites of Heaven; but till they perceive the condemning Power of the Law, and subscribe to the Justice of that Sentence which is pro­nounced against every Transgressor, they con­tinue under the Dominion of Sin, and see no Beauty and Loveliness in the Savior.

HAVE I been convinced of my utter Inabi­lity to deliver myself from this Misery? Have I seen the Vanity of all Dependance upon the Uprightness of my Intentions, the Regularity [Page 50] of my Conduct, my humblest Confessions, or deepest Humiliations, to expiate the Guilt of Sin, and satisfy the Justice of offended Heaven? —Without this, I shall inevitably trust to my Prayers, Tears and Amendments to recommend me to the Favor of God—I shall neglect the only Sacrifice which has made complete Atone­ment for the Sins of Men.

HAVE I accepted the Proposals of the Gospel? The Gospel reveals an Almighty Savior to a ruined World, and by the most perswasive Argu­ments invites us to receive Him in that amiable Character. Have I heard the joyful Sound with Gratitude, and been made willing to be saved by Christ in his own appointed Way?—Is this the unfeigned Language of my Soul—Lift up your Heads ye everlasting Gates, let the KING OF GLORY descend and take the full Possession of all my Powers?—Do I not only depend on his justifying Righteousness; but welcome the sanctifying Influences of his Spirit?—Is He precious in my Esteem, not only as an atoning Priest, but a commanding King;—to mortify my dearest Lusts, as well as to deliver me from the Miseries of Hell;—to form me to an entire Subjection to his Laws, as well as dignify me with the Privileges of his People?

IN fine, is JESUS, in all his sacred Offices, the supreme Object of my Affection? Do I prefer Him to all the Honors and Advantages [Page 51] of this Life? Do I count all Things but Loss that I may win Him?—If these Dispositions are implanted in us by the Spirit of God, they are Fruits of distinguishing Grace, and will terminate in the Harvest of Glory.

II. THEY who pour Contempt on the Love of God manifested by Jesus Christ, neglect their most important Interests.

INTEREST is the grand Spring of human Actions. They who are deaf to the Calls of Duty, insensible of the Obligations of Grati­tude, are generally influenced by what they imagine to be their Interest.—But it is the In­felicity of Mankind, that they often confine their Views to the present Moment; and disregard future Consequences: They fix their Eyes on Things which are seen and temporal, but are blind to the Excellence and Beauty of Things unseen and eternal.

WE see Men engaged in a perpetual Hurry, disquieted with perplexing Fears.—Ask them, what is the Matter?—My Honor or Interest is at Stake.—This awakens their sollicitous Concern—and engages them to incessant Acti­vity and Diligence.—Allow me, my Bre­thren, to enquire, is it not your Honor and Interest, to be delivered from the Wrath of God, and the unutterable Torments of Hell— to be admitted into the Family of Heaven and [Page 52] secure a Title to the Inheritance of the Saints in Light? I must rank you among the Number of abandoned Infidels, or degrade you from the Character of rational Creatures, to suppose you can hesitate one Moment, in deciding this important Question.—None can be indifferent whether they live with God, or are eternal Ex­iles from his blissful Presence—Whether they spend unceasing Ages in the triumphant Joys of Heaven, or the excruciating Pains of Hell.

WHENCE then is it, that future Happiness is so generally neglected? Whence is it, that Men who discover the most exquisite Sagacity, in securing the Interests of this Life, are so in­fatuated as to pay little or no Attention to the momentous Affairs of the World to come?— Is it because the supreme Happiness of their Nature is placed out of their Reach?—Is it because there is no Prospect of Success, though they employ their utmost Diligence?—Blessed be God, this is not the Case—Are you ex­cluded from the Hope of the Gospel?—Is the inevitable Sentence passed upon you?— Are you not invited to return to your offended Sovereign?—Does not the Son of God call you by his Word and Spirit to come to Him that you may have Life?—If then you are excluded from future Happiness, it is by your own Obstinacy and Perverseness.—If eternal Dam­nation be your Portion, it is because you pre­fer your Sins before your Savior, the Pleasures [Page 53] of the World before the Privileges of the People of God. Every Argument of Terror and Endearment are employed to perswade you not to receive the Grace of God in vain.

THE compassionate Father of Mercies sol­licits your Compliance with his Demands, as if his own Honor and Interest were connected with your Happiness. The great Creator be­comes a Supplicant to his Creature Man—and beseeches us with Bowels of Pity to be recon­ciled to Him. He swears by his own unut­terable Name, that He seeks not our Destruc­tion, but delights in our Happiness. As I live (saith the Lord) I take no Pleasure in the Death of the Sinner, but that he repent and live, turn ye, turn ye, why will ye die?

IF you reject these moving Addresses—upon what can you depend! This World—it's Glories are swiftly passing away! Upon your own Goodness—the Defects of your Duties will forever condemn you! Upon your pre­sent Health and Strength—your Life is a Vapor which vanisheth in a Moment! Every Hope will deceive you but that which is built on Jesus Christ. Place your entire Depen­dance on Him, He will give you Grace, Glory, and every desirable Good. To Him be Glory forever and ever. AMEN.

I. THIS instructs us in the Difference be­tween the Law and the Gospel.

THE Law demands perfect and perpetual Obedience, as the Condition of Life; the Gos­pel requires humble Faith, as the appointed Means of Safety and Happiness: According to the Tenor of the Law, we must have a com­plete and personal Righteousness, to escape its damnatory Sentence; according to the conde­scending Terms of the Gospel, the Righteous­ness of our Surety delivers us from Death, and gives us a Title to Life Eternal.—This is the unalterable Voice of the Law, do these Things and thou shalt live:—This the alluring Language of the Gospel, believe and thou shall be saved.

[Page 64]THE different Terms are wisely adapted to the different States and Circumstances of Man­kind. The Law was delivered to Man when in a State of unblemished Innocence, in all the Perfection of his Nature, when he had Strength to perform his entire Duty, without Defect or Deviation: But the Gospel considers Man as fallen from his primitive Integrity, destitute of Ability or Inclination to do that which is Good. It is appointed for his Rescue from the Con­demnation of the Law and the tyrannical Do­minion of Sin—Therefore it does not call him to purchase Life by his Obedience; but to receive that Grace which alone can enable him to will and to do:—Not to expect Happiness from his own Virtue and Goodness, but by an humble Affiance in the Grace and Righteous­ness of an all sufficient Savior.

EVERY one who does not submit to the Law of Faith, must stand or fall by the Law of Works. This infallibly condemns all the Posterity of Adam without Distinction, whether Gentile, Jew, or Christian. All have vio­lated it's righteous Precepts and incurred it's dreadful Penalty.—How terrible is that Dis­pensation to an awakened Mind, which de­nounces Indignation and Wrath, Tribulation and Anguish on every Soul that doeth Evil!— How admirable that Grace, which reveals JESUS the Wisdom and Power of God, to the Salvation of every one that believeth!—How [Page 65] alarming that Sentence, which curseth every one, that continueth not in all Things written in the Book of the Law to do them!—How reviving that Voice which declares that Christ Jesus delivers us from the Curse of the Law, being made a Curse for us, and assures us that as many as receive Him have Power to become the Sons of God!

II. WHAT Reason have we to rejoice in the Light and Advantages of the Gospel.

IN this Dispensation, the Grace of God appears in it's brightest Splendor, it's unlimited Freeness; to attract the Attention of perishing Sinners,—The Divine Majesty is seated on a Throne of Grace, and we are invited to touch the Sceptre of Mercy and live: Angels are commissioned to publish the Goodwill of God to Men: Ministers are appointed to preach Peace by Jesus Christ, to them that are afar off and to them that are near. The Condition of our Reconciliation with an offended Deity, is not indefective Holiness, which must sink us into the deepest Despair, but an humble Faith, which receives All, from the over-flowing Fountain of all Good.

HAPPY are we, my Brethren, though ruined in Adam, who have a Way of Recovery re­vealed by Jesus Christ.

WHAT gloomy Fears must arise in the Breast of an uninstructed Pagan, when Conscience [Page 66] accuses him of numberless Violations of the Law of Nature?—If he looks up, he beholds the Heavens darkned with Clouds of Wrath, and Thunders prepared by divine Justice, ready to be discharged on his guilty Head—If he casts his Eyes down upon the Earth, he sees the Grave prepared to receive him, and has just Rea­son to fear that the Pains of a temporal will transmit him to the Miseries of eternal Death.

To whom shall he apply in this melancholy Situation?—To the Altars of his Gods?—Alas! the superstitious Rites, the uninstituted Sacri­fices, with which they are approached instead of effacing his Guilt, serve only to increase the Number of his Crimes.—Shall he implore Mercy of the Idols he absurdly worshipeth?— Alas! they have no Eyes to see, no Ears to hear, no Tongues to speak, nor Hearts to pity his Distress.

WHICH Way soever he turns, he finds no Ray of Light to scatter the Gloom that sur­rounds him on every Side—No friendly Di­rector to show him the Path of Peace and Safety.—The Light of Nature discovers his Guilt, but can give no Assurance of the divine Favor and Forgiveness—This is the distin­guishing Glory of the Gospel. Those who hearken to it's indulgent Voice, and trust in it's faithful Promises, may be freed from all disquieting Doubts, and enjoy that Peace of God, which passeth all Understanding.

[Page 67]IN CHRIST we behold—God reconciled— Guilt abolished—the Law fulfilled—Death dis­armed—the Fire of Hell extinguished—the Joys of Heaven purchased for all that believe and obey Him. These happy Souls may, in the full Assurance of Faith, adopt the trium­phant Challenge of St. Paul, Who shall lay any Thing to the Charge of God's Elect? It is God that justifieth; who shall condemn? It is Christ that died; yea rather that is risen again, who is even at the Right Hand of God, who also maketh Intercession for us.

O GOD! How kind are thy Dealings unto the Children of Men! How boundless thy Compassions to ungrateful Rebels! How adapted are the Methods of thy Grace to thy destitute Creatures!—Thou knowest the Frailty and Inconstancy of our Natures, therefore commandest us to commit the Keeping of our Souls to an Almighty Savior, who is the same Yesterday, To-day, and forever.

III. WHILE the Gospel establishes Salvation by Faith, it takes the most effectual Care to engage us in the Practice of universal Holiness.

TRU [...] Faith infallibly disposes the Mind to an impartial Obedience to the divine Com­mandments. If it has not this Influence, St. James pronounces it a dead Faith; and it is the grossest Absurdity to suppose a dead Faith can [Page 68] bring us to the Happiness of eternal Life. Faith subdues the Heart to a chosen Con­formity to the Nature and Design of the Gospel—What is the Design of the Gospel? —Every one must acknowledge—not only to publish an Act of Indemnity in Favor of condemned Rebels, but to deliver them from the Dominion of their Lusts:—Not only to dignify them with the Title of Sons, but enable them to walk as becomes the obedient Children of God.

CONSEQUENTLY, to rely on Christ to de­liver us from the Miseries of Hell, and not also to save us from the Service of Sin and Satan, is not the Faith of the Gospel; but a vain Ima­gination.—Instead of introducing us into the Way of Life, it opens a spacious but dangerous Road, which betrays us to the Chambers of Death. The Faith so highly recommended in the Oracles of God, is always attended with the Influences of the Holy Spirit: This Divine Agent resides in the Heart of the true Believer, dissolves his Attachment to every Sin, causes him to delight in the Law of God after the inward Man: The Fruits of the Spirit are Love, and the various Graces which constitute the Christian Life. They who have not this Spirit of Christ, are positively declared to be none of His.

NONE believe in Christ, who are not pre­viously convinced of the Corruption of their [Page 69] Nature, their Exposedness to the Wrath of God, by their innumerable Violations of his Laws. When brought to acquiesce in the Designs of redeeming Love, we receive the blessed Jesus to save us from Sin, as well as Wrath.—We ardently desire to be made holy, as well as happy. An essential Part of that Salvation which He bestows on his People, is an Heart purified from the Love of Sin, un­feignedly devoted to the Service of Heaven. He delivers us out of the Hands of our Ene­mies, that we might serve Him without Fear, in Holiness and Righteousness all the Days of our Life.

IV. THEY who perish in their Sins under the Light of the Gospel are of all Men the most inexcuseable.

WHO would not suppose a guilty World would receive the Declarations of divine Grace with Raptures of Joy, and with the deepest Submission accept the offered Favor: But constant Experience teaches us that Multitudes are inattentive to the joyful Sound, while others treat it with a profane Contempt.—Whence arises this infatuated Conduct?—A secret Infi­delity is, doubtless, the Source of that fatal Security which prevails among Mankind. A wavering Assent to the Truths of the Gospel, prevents their chearful Compliance with it's benevolent Design.

[Page 70]WERE the Doctrines of Religion built on the vain Imaginations of Men—Were the sublime Hopes of the Christian unsupported with divine Credentials—No wonder the wise and considerate Part of Mankind, should treat it with indifference: Why should we pursue the flattering Illusions of a credulous Mind? Why should we be captivated with airy Pro­spects, which will probably disappoint our Expectations?

BUT Salvation by Faith is a Doctrine re­vealed by the God of Truth, supported by every Kind of Evidence that can be desired by a reasonable, unprejudiced Mind. St. Paul tells us, that this Salvation at first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed to us by them that heard Him, God also bearing them Witness, both with Signs and Wonders, and divers Miracles, and Gifts of the Holy Ghost, according to his own Will.

THE SON OF GOD, descended from Hea­ven, cloathed himself with the Infirmities of human Flesh, to reveal these glad Tidings to a revolted World. He evidenced his Mission by astonishing Miracles, which bear the Character of infinite Wisdom and resistless Power. These wonderful Works were not done in a Corner— in a private Retirement—among a few selected Friends—No—but in the Streets of Jerusalem, in the Presence of Multitudes, in the View of His Enemies.—As the LORD of Nature, the [Page 71] Winds and Sea obey His Voice—the most in­veterate Diseases fly at His Approach—His Commands are heard in the awful Mansions of the Dead, the Inhabitants of the Grave, an­swer to His Call, and rise to Life and Vigor.— He Dies—the Heavens are darkned, the Earth trembles, the Rocks are rent.—He raises Himself from the Dead; Angels descend from Heaven to pay Him Homage, His timorous Disciples acknowledge their Master and Lord. —At length He takes Farewel of this Earth, ascends up to Heaven in the public View of his Followers, the Spirit descends on His Apostles in visible Forms; they are immedi­ately endowed with the Supernatural Gift of Tongues—they also perform illustrious Mira­cles, in the Name of their ascended Master.

THESE were public and visible Facts—ac­knowledged by the incredulous Jews, allowed by the most inveterate Enemies of the Christian Faith, in the early Days of the Church—Au­thorised by these divine Credentials, the Apo­stles propagated the Religion of JESUS, with surprising Success.—Without Power to awe— without Wealth to bribe—without Eloquence to perswade—They triumphed over the Preju­dices of the Vulgar, the Reasonings of the Philosophers, the long established Idolatry of all Nations. Though the Princes of the Roman Empire endeavored to stop the Progress of the Gospel:—Though Priests and Politicians made [Page 72] use of all their Art and Address, to expose it to Contempt:—Though the Fires of Persecu­tion consumed it's Professors, for three hun­dred Years—it took deep Root, spread far and wide, and filled the whole Earth with it's salutary Influences.

WAS ever a Doctrine confirmed with such illustrious Attestations? What could support it, amidst so many Dangers; but the Divine Protection? What further Evidence can Men desire, that the Gospel is a Revelation from Heaven, and consequently, that Salvation may be obtained by Faith.

IF Men continue in Unbelief, it is to be ascribed to the corrupt Disposition of their Hearts, a fond Attachment to their criminal Delights.—A perpetual Engagement in the Business and Amusements of Life, prevents their receiving the Truth in the Love of it. If our Gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost, in whom the God of this World hath blind­ed the Minds of them that believe not, lest the Light of the glorious Gospel of Christ, who is the Image of God should shine unto them.

FROM this most terrible of all Judgments may God of his infinite Mercy deliver us.— To Him be Glory forever and ever. AMEN.

I. LET us consider our natural Inability, to that which is spiritually Good.

THIS is declared in Scripture in the most expressive Terms, in a Variety of Forms. The God of Truth declares, that the Thoughts and Imaginations of the Heart of Man, are Evil, only Evil, and that continually. An inspired Pen [Page 79] informs us, that the carnal (i. e.) the unrenewed Mind, is not subject to the Law of God, nor can be: That the natural Man receiveth not the Things of the Spirit of God; for they are Fool­lishness unto him; neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.

THE same mortifying Truth is taught by Metaphors, that it may be the more deeply engraven on our Minds:—Not to discourage, but humble us, with a View of our Wretched­ness:—Not to fill us with imaginary Terrors, but alarm us sollicitously to seek a Cure.— We are represented as blind to divine Truths, till a celestial Ray shines upon our benighted Minds, and discovers to us their Excellency and Importance.—We are deaf to the Voice of incarnate Love, till a mighty Power remove the Obstructions, and incline our Ears to attend to the inviting Sound:—Our Hearts are like obdurate Rocks, impenetrable to every religious Impression, till victorious Grace softens them into Flesh, and makes them receptive of salu­tary Impressions.—We are dead in Trespasses and Sins, till that irresistible Command, which must shortly awake the Inhabitants of the Grave, causes us to arise and live.

THESE metaphorical Expressions are not the Flights of Fancy, but they convey a solemn Truth. No Language can be contrived, better adapted to represent our Inability, by any inhe­rent [Page 80] Power of our own, to do any Thing which is spiritually Good.—I am sensible that Meta­phors ought not to be pressed into a Service, for which they were not originally designed;— at the same Time, I am sure they ought not to be explained away, till all their Sense, Propriety and Beauty is lost. If this Variety of Meta­phors, so often repeated, does not teach us our spiritual Impotence to the Acts and Exercises of the divine Life, they signify Nothing,— They can be esteemed no better than extrava­gant Hyperboles—which I am perswaded no serious Mind will impute to an inspired Author▪

But I proceed to show,

II. THAT in our State of unregenerate Na­ture, we are not only destitute of all Good, but resist the Influences of divine Grace.

WHEN our Lord performed His miraculous Works, it was with uncontroulable Power; without the Aid of Means or Instruments.— In the first Creation, He issued out his autho­ritative Fiat, this harmonious System immedi­ately existed; nothing opposed the Execution of His Will.—When the Dead are raised, tho' they can contribute nothing to their own Re­surrection, yet they form no Resistance to the all-quickning Power of the Son of God.— But when apostate Man is created anew; when the spiritually Dead are animated with a divine Life, they are not only destitute of all previous [Page 81] Disposition to Faith and Holiness, but disaf­fected to the Sanctity of God, the Methods of His Grace, the Laws of His Government: They perversly reject the generous Hand, which is stretched out to recover them from their Guilt and Misery: They oppose the Opera­tions of the sacred Spirit, which are designed to restore them, to the Favor and Image of God; to present Rectitude and future Happi­ness.—Surely nothing short of a divine Power, can subdue the native Enmity of our Hearts, change the Bias of our depraved Inclinations, and reduce us to a Compliance with the ap­pointed Way of Salvation. A Heart to re­nounce our former Prejudices and Preposses­sions; to submit to the Grace and Government of the BLESSED JESUS, must be the Gift of God. This will be further Evident—

III. WHEN we take a View, of the innu­merable Stratagems which Satan employs, to keep us from believing to the saving of our Souls.

THIS subtile Spirit is described in the Gospel under the Character of a strong Man, who having entered into an House, guards it against every Assault, and uses all Manner of Arts to maintain the Possession: Our victorious Re­deemer must therefore bind this strong Man, before He can establish his Empire in the human Heart: It must be the Work of the omnipotent: God, and not of frail and feeble [Page 82] Man, to triumph over this terrible Enemy, to expel him from the Dominion he has im­piously usurped, and as obstinately defends: He must be cast out with Violence, before the sanctifying Spirit can regain the peaceable Pos­session of His Temple.

THE Israelites, were delivered from the Tyranny of Pharoah, with an high Hand and out-stretched Arm: But this Prince, in all the Pride and Plenitude of Power, was an in­firm Mortal. It is therefore, a more illustrious Conquest, to rescue Mankind from the Capti­vity▪ in which they are detained by the infer­nal Tyrant of Hell. He is great in Strength, and has Legions of mighty and malicious Aux­iliaries; who fight under his Standard, and assi­duously promote the Designs of his accursed Empire. It is the sole Prerogative of the most high God, to dispossess the Prince of Darkness, and establish the Kingdom of Truth and Righte­ousness, in a revolted World. From what we have heard we must necessarily conclude,

I. THE deepest Humility becomes the Cha­racter of fallen Creatures.

IN every View, we have the highest Reason to abhor ourselves, to deplore the universal Depravity of our Natures, and to place our en­tire Dependance on sovereign Mercy for every Blessing.—Consider,—attentively consider— into what a fatal Abyss of Misery, the Apostacy [Page 83] has plunged the Race of Men! What Miracles of Power and Goodness are employed for our Recovery! How desirable was the Primitive State of Man!—An enlightned understanding taught him the Knowledge of God and his Duty; an uncorrupted Heart inclined him to pay a perfect Obedience to the Mandates of his Heavenly Father; the Way to unfailing Felicity was open to his View; every delight­ful Enjoyment was in his Possession.

BUT alas! he rebell'd against God; a me­lancholy Change immediately ensued: His Glory departed from him; the Privileges of his innocent Nature were forfeited forever: Darkness veiled his Mind; Pride and Perverse­ness took Possession of his Heart; the Love of God was banished from his Breast, and Self-Love advanced to the Throne. Man, the Lord of this visible Creation, became an infamous Slave; the Favorite of his Maker a Captive of Hell: The Heavens were armed with Thunder, the Earth exposed to a lasting Curse: Every Thing conspired to make the ungrateful Rebel mortal and miserable.

WHAT Prodigies of Love prepared the Way for our Restitution to our former Happiness! A God became incarnate—the Lord of Nature took upon Him the Form of a Servant—the Prince of Life suffered and died:—Salvation is purchased at an infinite Price, and freely offered to a lapsed World.

[Page 84]BUT this is not sufficient—Though the great Teacher of the Christian Church hath plainly directed us in the Way that leads to the Joys of Paradise—yet our Eyes are so daz­zled with the Glories of this World, our Af­fections so strongly attached to sensual Plea­sures, our Minds so averse to every Thing which is Spiritual and Divine; that the same Good­ness which discovers to us a Savior, must dis­pose us to accept of Him in His sacred Offices and Characters: An Omnipotent Arm must be revealed to conquer our reluctant Nature, or we shall voluntarily persist in the Paths of Perdi­tion.—If this is the Case—as it really is—how vain are all our Boasts of the Dignity and Ex­cellency of our Nature, in its present depraved State! How ridiculous are all our Pretences to recommend ourselves to God, by our own Wisdom, Power or Goodness!

PROSTRATE thyself in the Dust, O fallen Creature! Know that thou art not only des­picably Mean but inconceivably Vile.—To the all-penetrating Eye of God thou appearest, not only destitute of all recommending Qualities— but a Mass of Deformity. Let us then ap­proach the supreme Tribunal, not in the pre­sumptuous Language of the Pharisee—Lord I thank Thee, that I am not as other Men—But with the self-condemning Disposition of the Publican—God be merciful to me a Sinner— to Thee O Lord belongs Righteousness, but to me Shame and Confusion of Face. I have no [Page 85] Plea, but the Merits of a crucified Savior— No Hope but in the boundless Resources of this Grace.

II. WHILE the Haughtiness of Man is obliged to stoop, the Excellency of Faith is clearly discovered.

BY this we are recovered from Misery, re­stored to the Favor of Heaven, conducted in the Way that leads to unfading Glory—All the Graces which reside in the Heart, all the Virtues which adorn the Life of a Christian, are the Offspring of Faith:—This secures us the final Victory over our spiritual Enemies:— By this we are supported in the most dange­rous Trials, and enabled to persevere, in our Attachment to the Great Redeemer; till we receive the End of our Faith the Salvation of our Souls.

IT is a Maxim of eternal Truth, whatsoever is not of Faith is Sin: We must then, inevita­bly conclude, that without it, the most expen­sive Charity, the most benevolent Disposition, the most assiduous Pravers, the severest Morti­fications, the most amiable Virtues, are essen­tially defective; destitute of Life and Spirit: They may establish a Reputation among Men; but will be pronounced Vain, at the enlightned Tribunal of God: They may gain the Advan­tages of Time, but cannot secure the Blessings of Eternity.—If we are saved by Grace through [Page 86] Faith; it necessarily follows, that they who are destitute of this Faith, are Strangers to that Grace, which forms the distinguishing Charac­ter of the Heirs of Salvation, and consequently must be forever deprived of those Privileges which constitute the true Felicity and Glory of human Nature.

III. WITH what Ardor and Importunity should we seek to God for this important Gift.

OUR Lord says to the Woman of Samaria, If thou knowest the Gift of God, thou wouldest have asked of Him, and He would have given thee living Water. Ask that ye may receive, was the Direction given by the same divine Teacher to the Multitude who attended on his Ministry.—This is the Voice of Reason, as well as the Command of God.—When sur­rounded with distressing Dangers; when all created Help fails; when human Policy and Power discovers no Way of Escape; is it not natural?—is it not rational?—to prostrate our­selves in the Dust, lift up our Eyes to Heaven, and implore those Almighty Aids which God takes Pleasure to communicate to the humble Supplicant. If our Hearts are too haughty— if our Knees are too stubborn—to bow at the Footstool of sovereign Grace, and ask the Life of our immortal Souls, surely our Damnation is of ourselves. It is Presumption to expect that God will vouchsafe to grant his choicest [Page 87] Favors to those who proudly neglect to seek Him in the Ways of his own Institution. Has He erected a Throne of Grace in our revolted World? Does He command us by Prayer and Supplication to make known our Requests? and shall we live in the Neglect of so plain, positive and reasonable a Duty?—Should not a People seek unto their God?—a God who is the supreme Dispenser of Happiness and Misery—upon whose Goodwill depends our eternal Destiny. Does not the Honor of the Deity require that we look up continually to Him from whom alone our Help must come, and ardently implore that Mercy, without which we are the eternal Victims of inexora­ble Justice?

ASK those, who live the Life of Faith—By what Methods were you introduced into this State?—They will answer with one Voice—"I was awakened to a solemn Concern for my eternal Welfare: I daily waited at Wisdom's Gates, and watched at the Posts of her Doors: I was convinced of the deep and universal Corruption of my Nature; I found that I was dead in Trepasses and Sins, that Nothing short of an Almighty Arm, could subdue my re­luctant Heart, and induce me to a chearful Compliance with the Prescriptions of sovereign Mercy: I prostrated myself at the Feet of the supreme Disposer of Life and Death; I ac­knowledged, I had forfeited every Favor, and that if He frowned me from his Presence for­ever, [Page 88] Justice must approve the Conduct; I had no Ground to complain that He treated me with undeserved Severity:—But I ardently im­plored that Grace I had no Right to challenge, and earnestly deprecated the Execution of that Sentence which was the just Punishment of my Crimes.—He viewed me with a compassionate Eye, He hearkened to the Cries of my Distress, and stretched out his Arm to deliver me from the Depths of Misery.—He revealed unto me his gracious Nature, which revived my despond­ing Heart:—He directed me by his Word and Spirit, to an All sufficient Savior provided for the greatest of Sinners:—He captivated me by the Charms of his Love, to resign myself to be his Servant forever."

IT is in this Way the Father of Mercies generally manifests Himself to the Sinners of human Race.—Thus he turns them from Dark­ness to Light, from the Power of Sin and Satan unto God—Their Success should encourage us to walk in the same Way: Their Example should inspire us with unfainting Diligence to pursue the same Methods: Never should we desist, till we experience that Power from on High, which alone can form us into the Cha­racter, and entitle us to the Privileges of the Sons of God.

IV. WHAT Gratitude should inspire the Breasts of those who are made Partakers of the Gift of Faith.

[Page 89] IT was a pure Favor that brought us into Existence; but it is greater Kindness that be­stows upon us Faith. Redeeming Love de­mands an higher Song of Praise than creating Goodness.—How should we adore the Great­ness of that Power, which not only made us at first—but designs to make us happy forever!— When we look up to JESUS who is the Author and Finisher of our Faith, our Hearts should overflow with Love, and our Tongues be per­petually employed in thankful Hallelujahs.

WHEN God delivered his People from Egypt, this Instance of the Divine Favor was to be com­memorated in every succeeding Age: A Festival was appointed to perpetuate the Remembrance of it to the most distant Posterity.

BUT the Believer has a nobler Deliverance to commemorate.—God hath saved us not from a temporal Bondage, but an eternal Prison:—He gives us his Laws, not inscribed on Tables of Stone, but on the living Tables of our Hearts.—He directed the Marches of his ancient People, through an unhospitable De­sart by a Pillar of Fire: He conducts his Saints in the present Day, by the Illuminations of his Spirit, who brings them safely, not to in earthly, but the celestial Canaan.

LET us follow our divine Leader, with un­daunted Courage, with chearful Perseverance. It is God that worketh in us to will and to do ▪ [Page 90] This, instead of incouraging Indolence, should animate our Zeal and Diligence.—The Teach­ings of the divine Spirit shew us the Path of Holiness and incline us to walk in it.—The Allurements of Grace captivate our Hearts, and give us Life and Spirit to run the Way that leads to the Kingdom of God.

TO animate us in this blessed Course, we are assured, that He who has begun a good Work in us, will carry it on to the Day of the Lord: He that hath given us Faith will in­crease and perpetuate it.—He will revive our discouraged Hearts, and support our tottering Steps:—Though weak in ourselves, we shall be strong in the Power of his Might:—His Grace will be victorious in the midst of the fiercest Opposition.

NEITHER present Enjoyments nor future Prospects—Neither the Malice of Men, nor Subtilty of the Principalities and Powers of Darkness:—Neither the Charms of Life, nor Fears of Death—shall detach us from Him in whom we have believed: We may triumph in the Assurance, that He will keep that which is committed unto Him, till Faith shall be turned into Vision, and the Work of Grace completed in the Regions of Glory. To Him be Glory forever and ever. AMEN.

FIRST, The Plan of this Salvation was formed in the eternal Counsels of Heaven.

MAN was originally the Favorite of his Almighty Creator: He gave him the first Place of Dignity in this visible World: He united Heaven and Earth, Matter and Spirit, in the Composition of human Nature: He introduced our first Parents into Being, in the most agreeable Circumstances, and bountifully provided for their Happiness in a State of Innocence.—But the All-seeing Eye of God, which penetrates into the most distant Futurities, beheld the un­grateful Apostacy of Man, and formed the Design of his Recovery.—He determined that Satan should not triumph in his Success, nor the human Race be irrecoverably ruined.— Though perfectly happy in the Enjoyment of Himself, He did not behold with Indifference the Misery of Man. Though Millions of [Page 95] Worlds must have started into Being at his au­thoritative Command, yet He looked with Compassion on this revolted Earth, and deter­mined to disappoint the Devices of the Devil.

BUT the sublimest Spirits in Heaven would have been eternally at a Loss to find a Way, in which this benevolent Design could be accom­plished, and the Honor of the Deity preserved. —The Demands of Justice must be answered, that Mercy may triumph in the Salvation of the Guilty—The Threatning of the Law must be fulfilled, that the Transgressor of it's righ­teous Precepts may be pardoned.—The Dignity of the divine Government must be maintained, that condemned Rebels may be restored to Favor.—The righteous Governor of the Uni­verse will evidence his Abhorrence of the Crime, while He receives the Criminal to the Embraces of his Love.

INFINITE Wisdom hath reconciled these Difficulties, and formed a Plan, which gives the brightest Discovery of all the Perfections of the Deity, sacredly maintains the Majesty of his Government, and displays the Riches of his Grace to his apostate Creatures.—In Confor­mity to this Plan, the Son of God descends upon Earth in a human Form, fulfils the Law which we had violated, submits to bear the Punishment of our Crimes; and thus prepares the Way for our Approach unto God, as a [Page 96] compassionate and reconciled Father.—Here we have the most admirable Display of divine Love, and the clearest Evidence of his Hatred to Sin: The Transgression of the Law is pu­nished with awful Severity, and the Transgressor graciously forgiven. This is that mighty Pro­jection, which is the Astonishment of Angels, and the Joy of the Redeemed. This gives us an affecting View of the inestimable Value of Salvation—Especially if we consider,

SECONDLY, It was purchased by the Blood of the Son of God.

IN all Ages, God has done great Things in Favor of his chosen People: For their Sakes, He exercises his Patience to a revolted World, and delays that important Period, when this visible Creation shall be consumed by Fire: For their Sakes, He hath counteracted the established Laws of Nature, and performed stu­pendous Miracles, in the Sight of Angels and Men: For their Sakes He will shortly descend from Heaven with a Shout, with the Voice of the Arch-Angel and the Trump of God: From his radiant Throne He will publickly pronounce them his Friends and Favorites, and receive them to a Kingdom prepared for them from before the Foundation of the World. But that which raises the Value of all these signal Favors, is the inestimable Price, with which they are purchased. I know Nothing so [Page 97] incomprehensible to human Reason, as the Sa­crifice of the Son of God for a guilty World. If this Mystery of divine Love had not been predicted by a Succession of inspired Prophets, confirmed by numerous and unquestionable Miracles, attested by Heaven and Earth, by Angels and Men—it could never be received as a Truth by any impartial Enquirer. It is difficult to conceive, that God would do so much for miserable Man. But since He has given us this surprising Discovery of his Love, we may justly infer the Greatness of that Hap­piness which He designs for his redeemed People.

ELEVATE your Thoughts, my Brethren, above these Regions of Sense, ascend in your devout Contemplations to the Throne of the Eternal Deity; behold THE SON OF GOD shining in the Brightness of his Father's Glory, surrounded with Myriads of adoring Angels.— Then view Him, descending upon Earth, co­vered with Wounds, bathed in Blood, nailed to the Cross, expiring in Death:—From the Dignity of his Person, learn the Value of his Sacrifice:—From the Severity of his Sufferings, learn the Greatness of his Purchase.—For us Men, and our Salvation, He appeared upon Earth in the Form of a Servant, passed through the Miseries of Life, and submitted to the Pains of Death. That Salvation, then, must be pronounced Great, which was procured at so [Page 98] great a Price. Our blessed Lord would not have forsaken the Pleasures of his Father's Bosom, parted with his heavenly Glory, and passed through this dark and distressing Scene of Sufferings, were it not to answer the most important Designs. He knew the just Value of Things, and esteemed the Happiness of his People an Equivalent for all the Sorrows of his Life and the Agonies of his Death.— Therefore we are assured that He shall see the Travail of his Soul and be satisfied. But fur­ther to confirm this Point, we may consider,

THIRDLY, The Mission of the Holy Ghost is designed to make us Partakers of this Salvation.

WHEN our blessed Lord finished his Work upon Earth and ascended to the Court of Hea­ven, according to his Promise, He sent down his Holy Spirit, to convince the World of Sin, to deliver them from it's fatal Dominion, and form them to a Meetness for the Kingdom of Glory. Every faithful Subject of our adora­ble Redeemer is justified in the Name of Jesus and sanctified by the Spirit of our God. This divine Agent not only favors the Church with an external Revelation, but secretly influences the Minds of Men to attend to the Truths delivered in the inspired Scriptures. He awa­kens them to a Sense of their Danger while they continue in a State of Sin, animates them [Page 99] with a salutary Concern to fly from the Wrath to come —Though inconsiderate Sinners often resist his sacred Operations, and though a fond Attachment to their Lusts, reject the in­dulgent Methods of divine Grace, he does not immediately abandon his Work, but waits upon them with admirable Patience, repeats his faithful Warnings, continues his friendly Offi­ces, and strives with them, from Day to Day, from Year to Year.

THIS is his general Conduct to Mankind, under the Dispensation of the Gospel. Multi­tudes, for their ungrateful Opposition to the Agency of the divine Spirit, are at last rejected of God, and left to consume away in their Ini­quities. But with respect to the Elect, He continues his Influences, ceases not to strive with them, till their rebellious Hearts are con­quered in the Day of his Power, and they are made the Triumphs of divine Love, the Heirs of immortal Glory—Having produced this happy Change, He watches over them with affectionate Care, enlightens them in Darkness, supports them in Weakness, recovers them from their Relapses, defends them in Dangers, and finally makes them victorious over all their spiritual Enemies. The Work which He has begun He will never forsake:—The Seed of Grace which He has implanted in their Hearts, He will cherish and encrease, till it produces the Fruits of Immortality and Glory. [Page 100] —Who can imagine the Holy Spirit would be so sedulously employed to secure the Sal­vation of Mankind, were it not an Affair of the greatest Importance. That must be of inestimable Value, which is accomplished at such an infinite Expence. It is dishonourable to suppose, that God should send his Son from the Regions of Glory; that the Son should humble himself to the Dust of Death, that the Spirit should employ his Almighty Energy, and not have in view the noblest Designs.

I add,

FOURTHLY, When any of the Children of Men are made Partakers of this Salvation, it gives Joy to the Angels of Light.

THESE benevolent Spirits, with a disinter­ested Joy, congratulated the first Appearance of a Savior in this lower World; they attended Him through all the Sorrows of Life; they comforted Him at the Approaches of Death; they appeared in Robes of celestial Glory to adorn the Triumphs of his Resurrection; they accompanied Him with joyful Acclamations in his Ascent to the Kingdom of his Father.— Though they are illustrious Courtiers of Hea­ven, they do not think the Inhabitants of this Earth beneath their Notice: Though they are the most exalted Part of the Creation, they disdain not to maintain an Intercourse with Worms of the Dust:—When a Sinner is con­verted [Page 101] from the Error of his Ways, the glad Tidings are propagated through the heavenly Mansions: There is Joy in the Presence of the Angels of God, that an Addition is made to the happy Society above: They chearfully forsake their Thrones of Glory, to become ministring Spirits to those who are appointed Heirs of Salvation: They encamp about the Dwellings of the Saints, deliver them from numberless Dangers, and by a Thousand Offices of Kind­ness, support and encourage them in their Passage through the Wilderness of this World. When the People of God have finished their Work upon Earth, they surround their dying Beds, receive their departing Spirits, guard them from the malignant Powers of Darkness, conduct them through the Regions of the Air, and safely introduce them into the Paradise of God.—Thus the Soul of the despised Lazarus was carried by Angels into Abraham's Bosom. —Thus the Soul of every faithful Servant of Christ, when delivered from the Body, becomes the Charge of these heavenly Ministers.—Nor do they desist from their Care, till they have fixed it in these happy Abodes, where it is secure from every Danger.—Surely that Sal­vation must be great, which these exalted Beings so affectionately desire to promote: They would not willingly leave the rapturous Employments of Heaven, to secure a trifling Advantage. Inconsiderate Mortals may despise this Salvation, but it is highly esteemed by [Page 102] those wise and holy Beings, who live in the Light of the Divine Countenance, and cannot be mistaken in the true Value of Things.

FIFTHLY. While the Angels rejoice, when any are made Partakers of this Salvation, the Devils triumph, when any by their Fault and Folly are excluded from it.

THE Devil is always represented as the Enemy of God and Goodness. Having de­serted his exalted Station, he envies the Happi­ness of Mankind. Condemned to the Punish­ment of eternal Death, he seeks with incessant Malice to involve others in the same irremedi­able Ruin.—To accomplish this accursed De­sign, he employs every Art, and exercises in­defatigable Diligence.—While Men go on securely in the Ways of Sin, he flatters them with Hopes of Impunity, rocks them asleep by a thousand deceitful Suggestions, that they may be insensible of their Misery and Danger. —If at any Time their guilty Fears are alarmed, he hurries them into the Business and Amuse­ments of Life; that they may divert their un­easy Thoughts. He employs their gay Com­panions, by Banter and Ridicule, to erase all serious Impressions from their Minds.—If a Sense of Guilt abide upon their Consciences, he terrifies them with unreasonable Fears, that the Day of Grace is ended, or that if they give way to their present Impressions, they must bid [Page 103] Adieu to every pleasant Enjoyment, and con­demn themselves to perpetual Melancholy.— If all these Attempts are in vain, and we are effectually perswaded to give up ourselves to our compassionate Savior, even then he does not abandon his malicious Designs. When he cannot prevent our Happiness, he endeavours to disturb our Peace: When he cannot regain the Empire of our Hearts, he industriously strives to pollute our Persons and Performances: He follows us to the Altar of God, and by a Variety of Temptations, interrupts our Com­munion with Heaven: He pursues us to the Gates of Paradise, and never ceases to distress us, till we enter that blessed World from which he is forever excluded.—Now, what is it that animates Satan and his confederate Hosts to employ all their Power and Policy to destroy Mankind?—They envy us the Enjoy­ment of that Heaven from which they are righteously banished: Their Malice is so great, that it increases their Torment to behold others rejoicing in the Favor of God, when they are condemned to an eternal Departure from Him.

THUS I have endeavoured to give you some View of the Greatness of that Salvation which is revealed in the Gospel.—It is great in the Judgment of Heaven and Hell.—The Good­ness of God and the Malice of Satan—the Angels of Light and the Ministers of Darkness —all conspire to proclaim it's Excellency and Value.

I. IS it not then astonishing Madness, to forfeit this Salvation for the meanest Trifles? And yet, O my Brethren, to the Disgrace of the Christian Name, this is a common Practice. We daily behold Souls capable of the extatic Joys of Heaven, confining their Pursuits to the defiling Pleasures of this degenerate Earth. We daily behold Souls formed for the Society of Angels deserting the Throne of Reason, and transformed into the Likeness of savage Brutes. They renounce the Happi­ness for which they were originally designed, and think and act, as if they were made for no higher an End—than to delight their Eyes with splendid Prospects—to gratify their Ears with the Harmony of Sounds—To please their Taste with the Flavor of Meats and Drinks— and after having spent a few Years in these sensual Pleasures, to retire off the Stage and be insensible forever.

IS this to act agreeable to the Character of Man, whom God appointed Lord of this lower Creation; who was formed after the Image of the Deity; who was placed upon Earth to glorify his Maker, and be eternally happy in the Enjoyment of his Love?—Are we capable of the Joys of Angels, and shall we associate with the Beasts that perish?—Were we de­signed to imitate the moral Perfections God, [Page 105] the best of BEINGS, and shall we degrade ourselves to a Resemblance of the Devil, the most hateful of Creatures?—Awake, O Man I from this State of Infatuation. Arise, consider the Greatness of your Folly. You are indeed fallen from your primitive Excellency; your Nature is corrupted in all it's Powers. But God has formed a Plan for the Recovery of the apostate Race of Adam: Christ has died for their Salvation: The Spirit is sent down to operate on the Minds of Men, and transform them into New-Creatures: Shall the Love of God be despised—the Merits of Christ under­valued—the Influences of the Holy Ghost be resisted—and you perish at last, notwithstanding the Miracles of divine Grace for your Reco­very?—Had you rather Devils should triumph in your Ruin, than Saints and Angels rejoice in your Salvation?

YOU will doubtless say—God forbid this should be my Case.—But allow me to assure you, this must be your inevitable Destiny—if you neglect your immortal Concerns—spend your Time in the Vanities and Diversions of Life—disregard the Service of your Maker and Sovereign—live in those Sins against which the Wrath of Heaven is denounced —There is no Medium—Every one of you must be perswaded to give up yourselves to the compassionate Jesus; experience his saving Power rescuing you from the Dominion [Page 106] of Sin; and be made Partakers of the sancti­fying Influences of the Holy Ghost; or remain under the Wrath of God, and suffer the Dam­nation of Hell through immortal Ages.

FOR what do Mankind neglect their eternal Interest? A Stranger to human Nature must suppose it must be for something of inestimable Value.—No—It is for the Pleasures of an in­temperate Hour, for the Joys of a lascivious Moment, for the fordid Gains of Avarice, for the childish Amusements which take place on this Theatre of Vanity.—For these Heaven is renounced, Hell is chosen.

SUFFER not, O my Brethren, the God of this World to blind your Eyes; attend to the one Thing needful.

WERE we condemned to perish without Remedy, it would be cruel to attempt to di­sturb your present Repose—Were the great Salvation unattainable by the Children of Men, all Exhortations to secure it would be imperti­nent and absurd. But this World is the Region of Hope: While we reside upon Earth we are Candidates for an heavenly Inheritance: Pro­posals of Grace are made to Sinners of every Order and Character: They are both invited and commanded to accept the Great Salvation. —Those who are involved in the deepest Guilt, and pining away in Indigence and Misery, [Page 107] are to be compelled, by all the perswasive Charms of divine Grace, by every Argument that can gain the Attention and Influence the Choice of a rational Creature, to accept of Life and Happiness.—It was our Wants, and not our Worthiness, that engaged our heavenly Father to form the Plan of our Redemption — It is to extricate us out of Misery, and not to reward our Virtues, that a Savior is provided for us. The only Qualification a Sinner can have antecedent to an Union to Christ, is a deep Sense of his Misery, a Despair of all Relief in himself, a Willingness to receive a Supply of all his Wants from the Fountain of all Good.—Therefore, Whosoever will—is the Language of eternal Love. It is an undoubted Truth, that none perish under the Advantages of the Gospel, but in consequence of their own voluntary Choice: By a positive Act of their Wills they reject Christ and the important Blessings He offers to their Acceptance: He refuses None that rely on his Power and Grace; but affectionately calls all weary and heavy laden Sinners to come to Him, and kindly pro­mises, I will give you Rest.—The whole Num­ber of Believers on Earth, and the radiant Assembly of glorified Saints in Heaven, bear their united Testimony to this consolatory Truth.—In the Character of guilty Creatures they cast themselves down at the Feet of an Almighty Savior: encouraged by the unlimit­ed Calls of his Word, they committed their [Page 108] future Welfare to his Care: He extended the Sceptre of his Mercy, and said unto them LIVE. Their Example should revive the Spi­rit of every trembling Sinner, and encourage them, from the Depths of Distress and Misery to confide in that Savior who is the same Yesterday, To-day, and forever.

II. WITH what Gratitude should we em­brace this Great Salvation?

IF the King of Kings hath published a royal Proclamation, inviting his rebellious Sub­jects to return to their Allegiance and receive, not only a free Pardon, but the Dignity and Privilege of Favorites—We may be assured, without Danger of Deception, that those who obey the Call, shall obtain the promised Mercy. —It is beneath the Character of the Deity, to amuse his Creatures with imaginary Hopes, or disappoint the Expectations of those who rely on his faithful Word. The Strength of Israel will not lie: The immutable Jehovah will not repent of the Purposes of his Love.

To confirm our Faith, we may take a View of the Conduct of our divine Master, when he condescended to be an Inhabitant of this inferior Earth: None were rejected, that ap­plied to Him in their Distress:—All were re­lieved that came to Him in the Language of humble Faith. The most despicable Objects [Page 109] were received with condescending Goodness, and restored to Health and Vigor by the Greatness of his Power. The vilest Sinners were delivered from the Dominion of their infamous Lusts, and assured of the Forgiveness of their aggravated Crimes.—He is now the same mighty and compassionate Savior He ever was: The Dignity to which He is advanced, has neither diminished his Power, or abated his generous Concern for the Welfare of Mankind: —He is equally willing to hearken to the sup­plicating Voice of his distressed Creatures— equally willing to deliver them from their Guilt and Danger.

WHO can dispute his Power, when all Nature obeys his Laws, and the most perfect Orders of Creatures are governed by the Direction of his Will!—Who can question his Readiness to apply his Power to relieve those who confide in Him!—Behold! the Sufferings He endured —the Blood He shed—the Death He under­went for the Salvation of a guilty World:— Every Wound discovers the Compassions of his Heart; His expiring Agonies purchased eternal Redemption for all who place their Trust in Him.

HE was once lifted up on an infamous Cross, and is now exalted to a Throne of Glory, to evidence that He is able to save to the uttermost all that come to God by Him.—Those there­fore [Page 110] who look unto Him, and receive Salvation as his Gift, are sure of a welcome Reception. —Their Safety is deposited in Almighty Hands:—Neither human Weakness or Folly, or the Opposition of the Powers of Darkness, shall be able to effect their Ruin.—Here is the great Security of every true Believer: The Power and Fidelity of Christ is engaged for their Protection:—They may bid Adieu to all uneasy Fears, and banish all disquieting Suspi­cions from their Minds:—Their Hopes are built on the Rock of Ages.—The Sun shall grow dim with Age, the bright Luminaries of Heaven be extinguished—the Earth we inhabit evaporate in Smoke:—But the Savior lives, inthron'd in Majesty and Might, to support the Hopes, and perpetuate the Happiness of those who are committed to his Care.— To Him be Glory forever and ever.

I. WHAT Multitudes deceive themselves with ungrounded Hopes of Salvation!— Ask them, do you expect to be saved?—They [Page 119] answer without Hesitation—Yes.—Upon what Foundation is your Expectation built?—Is the Salvation revealed in the Gospel the most de­sirable Blessing in their Esteem?—No.—They have a greater Affection to the Pomps and Plea­sures of this Life.—Do they seek after an In­terest in this Salvation with unremitting Dili­gence?—No.—They spend their Days i [...] worldly Cares and Diversions.—Have they re­ceived Power from on High, to mortify their dearest Lusts?—No.—They go on securely in the prohibited Paths of Vice.—Do they aspire after that Holiness, without which the Scripture declares no Man shall enter into the New Jeru­salem?—No.—This would lay too severe a Restraint on their Nature, and deprive them of their chiefest Joys.—What Reason have you then to hope for future Happiness?—You flat­ter yourselves that God is merciful, and will not be so strict as He is represented in his Word.

AH fatal Delusion!—prodigious Folly!— Would you venture your Estate or Reputation on chimerical Hopes, destitute of all Founda­tion either in Reason or Scripture?—If there was any other Dispensation of Grace, besides that which is revealed in the Gospel—If there was any other Sacrifice for Sin, than that which the Son of God finished on the Cross— If there was any other Way to Heaven, than that which is traced out by the Precepts and and Example of our blessed Savior—there [Page 120] might be some Foundation for Hope: But if there is no other Name given under Heaven by which Men can be saved but the Name of Jesus;—if none are accepted at the supreme Tribunal, but through his all sufficient Righ­teousness;—if the everlasting State of Mankind must be determined according to the Gospel;— then your Expectations of future Happiness are an imaginary Dream: In the End you die a Fool, and must lie down in everlasting Sorrow.

DO you dispute this? Then you rase the Foundations of Religion and treat the Gospel as if it was a cunningly devised Fable—Do you believe Moses and the Prophets, Christ and his Apostles?—I trust, without paying a Compliment to my Hearers, I may address them as St. Paul did King Agrippa—I know that you believe.—What then remains, but that you bow to the Authority of divine Revelation, and receive the most mysterious Doctrines with humble Submission.

IF our corrupt Reason is to be advanced to the infallible Chair, and the Articles of Religion are to be explained according to it's Dictates, many of it's sublimest Truths will be pronounc­ed false, and it's self-denying Precepts accom­modated to the Genius of a degenerate Age.

MEN of Pleasure cannot conceive that God will be so severe, as to punish them for the [Page 121] Gratification of their sensual Appetites and Inclinations:—I, my Brethren, if I only con­sult my Reason, cannot conceive that He should be so indulgent to his guilty Creatures, as daily Experience evidences He is—Nothing can be more incredible to our finite Reason, than that the Monarch of the Universe should send his Son to give his Life a Ransom for his rebellious Subjects—That the immaculate Jesus should bear the Punishment of our Sins in his own Body on the Tree:—That He should be wound­ed for our Transgressions, bruised for our Ini­quities, and the Chastisement of our Peace be upon Him.—But God speaks, let every mortal Ear attend; let human Reason be silent, and devoutly acknowledge it's Incapacity to com­prehend the Depths of the divine Counsels.— My Faith adores this mysterious Love—my Heart acquiesces with Joy in the salutary Truth —I receive it as a faithful Saying and worthy of all Acceptation.

BUT why should it be esteemed unreason­able, that Men who obstinately persist in their Crimes, should reap the Fruit of their own Doings? What more equitable, than that they who will not accept of Mercy, should fall by the Sword of Justice?

EVERY inlightened Mind, instead of com­plaining of the Severity of God, will adore his Patience to a revolted World. While Sinners [Page 122] continue in Arms of Rebellion against Him, He visits them every Morning with his refresh­ing Light, provides for them every Day with paternal Care, showers down Blessings upon them with an unsparing Hand.—Why do not the Thunders of Heaven destroy those insolent Mortals, who defy their Omnipotent Maker! Why does not the Earth open it's Mouth and transmit to unquenchable Flames those anda­cious Rebels, who will not submit to the Go­vernment of of the King of Kings! It is because his Ways are not as our Ways, neither his Thoughts as our Thoughts—He is long-suffering to us ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should be brought to Re­pentance.

II. HOW greatly is it to be lamented, that the Bulk of Mankind pay so little Atten­tion to that which ought to engage their principal Concern!

LET us view the Conduct of Men: How carelessly do they spend their Time, in the Fatigues of Business, or the Pursuit of Plea­sure! They dissipate their Thoughts upon a thousand Objects, and live without Retirement or Reflexion.—They contemplate these visible Heavens and measure the Magnitude, and cal­culate the Distance of the Stars; but give themselves no Concern to secure an Entrance into the Heaven of Heavens, the Habitation [Page 123] of God's favorite People.—They descend into the Depths of the Earth, to discover the Treasures which are concealed in it's Bosom; but never seriously prepare for that decisive Hour, when they shall have no more Con­nection with this material System, but become Inhabitants of the invisible World of Spirits —Borne on the Wings of Ambition or Avarice, they fly from Pole to Pole, in Search of that Wealth and Honor which vanisheth in a Moment; but profanely despise that Honor which comes from God—those Treasures which would inrich them forever.

THIS careless and sensual Course of Life might perhaps admit of some Excuse, if at­tended with no hurtful Consequences; but since it is inconsistent with all regular Hopes of Salvation; since, if not awakned out of it, we remain the Children of Wrath; every considerate Mind must condemn Sinners of this Order, as the greatest of Madmen.

WHAT would you think of a Prisoner con­fined in Chains, who knew the Day of his Trial was approaching, that Sentence of Death was ready to be pronounced upon him; and when once pronounced could never be recalled, but would certainly be executed:—If in this melancholy Situation he was assured that a Way of Escape was provided:—But instead of improving the Opportunity afforded him, he [Page 124] disregarded the Message, and spent his Time in Sports and Diversion, till the fatal Hour arrive which excludes all Hopes forever!— Would not every impartial Observer pronounce his Conduct the Extremity of Madness?

THIS is but a faint Image of the Madness which possesses the Hearts of secure Sinners.— As much as the Punishment of Hell is to be dreaded above the momentary Miseries of this Life, so much greater is the Folly of those who neglect the Day of their Visitation.

THEIR Folly will be still more manifest if we consider—what Motives induce them to so fatal a Procedure.—Motives so mean and contemptible, that it is astonishing they have any Influence upon Men endowed with the Powers of Reason and Reflection. The true Happiness of our Nature is sacrificed for a few sordid Delights, which become insipid by Custom, are impaired by the Infirmities of Age, and will certainly be lost in Death.

DOUBTLESS the Angels of Light are asto­nished at the Stupidity of Men, who for a painted Toy—a little Heap of glittering Dust —or a sensual Pleasure, which they enjoy in common with their kindred Brutes, part with Heaven and it's unceasing Joys, expose them­selves to Hell, and all it's dark and despairing Horrors. In the mean time, in perfect Con­sistence [Page 125] with the Hopes of eternal Happiness, we might enjoy every rational Pleasure. The Enjoyments of this World, when regulated by the Precepts of Religion, are attended with peculiar Sweetness—We review them without Reproach—and receive them as Ear­nests of superior Joys.

III. LET us then be perswaded to renounce this inconsiderate Conduct, and with unfainting Vigor and Resolution pur­sue those Blessings which constitute our Happiness in Time and Eternity.

HAVE you hitherto neglected to walk in the Way that leads to Life?—Have you spent your Time in those Things which the wise Solomon pronouces Vanity of Vanities?—Have you to this Day been inattentive to the great Concern of a rational and immortal Being?—

YET, O indulgent Goodness!—Yet you live:—You hear the Voice of a compassionate God, inviting you to return unto Him. He addresses you as He did his ungrateful People in the Days of old. How shall I give thee up Ephraim! How shall I deliver thee Israel! My Heart is turned within me, my Repentings are kindled together.

ATTEND, O my Brethren, to the heavenly Voice; it speaks particularly to you who are in the Morning of Life, the flourishing Bloom of Youth: This is the noblest Opportunity [Page 126] you will ever enjoy, to lay a sure Foundation for future Safety. Your Hearts are not pre­possessed with the distracting Cares of Life, nor your Consciences rendered insensible by inveterate Habits of Vice. Nature is now in her Prime, and Grace is more frequently be­stowed upon young Persons, then on those who are grown old in Sin.

BUT in what Language shall I address those who are bowed down under the Weight of Years and Infirmities—and are grown gray in the Service of Satan?—Must I say your Day is past—your Doom irreversible?—God forbid that I should be sent on so terrible a Message. —Your Case is dangerous, but not desperate: Through the Patience of Heaven, you are yet commanded to seek the Lord while He may be found: Let your vanishing Breath be employed in constant and ardent Prayer to that Being who not only permits you to live in this World but invites you to draw near to the Throne of His Grace. In a few Days more your Doom will be fixed: Hope, the Relief of the Misera­ble, will forsake you forever.

MAY a gracious God convince you of your dangerous Situation, and excite you to fly for Deliverance to Him, whom God hath exalted to be a Prince and a Savior, to give Repentance and Remission of Sins! To Him be Glory forever and ever. AMEN.

I. THIS discovers the Excellency of true Religion, and evidences that it is not an Enemy to human Happiness.

DELUDED Mortals are prejudiced against the Ways of Christ; they imagine they are be­set with Thorns, and that those who walk in them must bid Adieu to every agreeable Enjoyment.

BUT, this is a fatal Mistake: Our amiable Master consults the present Comfort as well as future Welfare of those who enroll themselves under his Banners. He indeed prohibits those sensual Excesses, which pollute the Body, de­grade the Mind, and ever prove Bitterness in the End: All his Laws are admirably adapted to make us happy in ourselves, and Blessings to all around us.

THE Pleasures of Sin are indeed inconsistent with the Character of a Disciple of Christ. All who follow Him, are strictly enjoined to keep themselves unspotted from the World, it's dan­gerous and polluting Manners: But they are introduced into a new Scene of Delights, supe­rior in their Kind and more lasting in their Duration. We renounce that false and delu­sive Joy, which, like a blazing Meteor makes a gaudy Appearance, but soon vanishes into empty [Page 140] Air: In the room of these disguised Trifles we receive Joys spiritual and divine, which are con­tinually refining, and will encrease more and more till they leave not one unaccomplish'd Wish—not one unsatisfied Desire. The Plea­sures of Religion, may be compared to the Path of the Just, which shineth more and more to the perfect Day.

THESE Joys, are discovered in the Gospel to those, who without its irradiating Beams, must have remained in the Regions of the Sha­dow of Death: They are offered to those, who without these glad Tidings, must live in perpe­tual Fear, die in unutterable distress, and after Death be involved in Blackness of Darkness forever.

HOW consolatory are the Discoveries of the Gospel! They present to our View a God re­conciled through the atoning Blood of Jesus: —A Savior sufficient to to supply all our Wants, and ready to relieve us in all our Necessities: —To those who thankfully receive these Reve­lations of divine Grace, it makes the most pre­cious Promises—and assures them the Possession of every desirable Blessing through every Period of their Existence.

WHEN we rejoice in any created Good, our Joy may be innocent, but it cannot be endur­ing: Earthly Joys may delight for a Moment, [Page 141] but are like the Crackling of Thorns under a Pot; they form a sudden Blaze which soon expires.—But to rejoice in the Lord Jesus Christ, is to build the Fabric of human Hap­piness on an immoveable Basis, which neither the Tempests of Life, nor the Depredations of Death can diminish or destroy. This is to possess a Joy which will not decay with Age, but survive the Funeral of universal Nature, and flourish through all Eternity. Well may the Believer rejoice with Joy unspeakable and full of Glory.

II. THIS should be improved as a mighty Argument to perswade us to accept the Great Salvation.

THIS is the Design I have been carrying on in several Discourses; and certainly Nothing can be more worthy the Attention of a Being in a State of Trial, and designed for an eternal Existence. If this is despised and neglected, the Wrath of God attends you in all your Ways—It lies down with you at Night—it rises with you in the Morning—It accompanies you through all the Business and Diversions of the Day: A secret Curse is mingled with all your Enjoyments: You are every Moment exposed to the Arrests of Death: This delivers you over to unceasing Torments.

[Page 142]TO rejoice in these Circumstances is the most thoughtless Stupidity. The Joys of the Sinner may be compared to the Revels of a condem­ned Malefactor, who in the height of his Folly goes dancing to an infamous Execution.

THINK, O my Brethren, how full—how free—how unlimitted are the Calls of Sove­reign Mercy? With what Authority does God Command! With what Compassion does He invite! With what Earnestness does He be­seech you, not to refuse the Offers of his Love!

REVIEW the unspeakable Blessings which will be the immediate Portion of those, who receive this great Salvation with Humility and Gratitude, and labour to obtain it with indefa­tigable Zeal and Diligence.—Being justified by Faith in Jesus, they become Members of his sacred Family, they enjoy the Privileges of the Children of God, and in the Relation of Children are Heirs of His heavenly Kingdom. Compared to this, what are Crowns and Scep­tres! What are all the Glories of created Nature!—glittering Phantoms—disguised Nothings.

BUT if Men bar their Hearts against the Impressions of incarnate Love, and give the Blessed Savior a final refusal; God—His elect Angels—and the Assembly of perfected Spirits will rejoice in their Damnation—May infinite [Page 143] Mercy prevent this terrible Event!—Perhaps you have lived long under a Dispensation of Grace, but have entertained no Thoughts of preparing for Eternity:—Perhaps you are full of gay Expectations of Pleasure in the Ways of Sin:—In the Pride of Life, captivated with the Enjoyment of your Lusts, immersed in Earthly Cares—you pour Contempt on the Solemnities of Religion.

BUT make a Pause—Bethink yourselves before it be too late: You have no Time to trifle—Your Life is as a Vapor, and may ex­pire before the Dawn of another Day: Or, if your Time upon Earth is lengthned out, a provoked God may swear in his Wrath that you shall never enter into his Rest.—Consider this, ye that forget God—Kiss ye the Son lest He be angry, when his Wrath is but kindled: Blessed are they that trust in Him.—

TO whom be Glory forever and ever.