A sermon preach'd to the Societies for Reformation of Manners in the cities of London and Westminster at Salters-Hall, Aug 15, 1698 preached and published at the desire of the said Societies / by Vincent Alsop.
but whether it may agree, or how far it may agree to the present state of Things among our selves, I must leave to your serious and impartial Judgments.
but whither it may agree, or how Far it may agree to the present state of Things among our selves, I must leave to your serious and impartial Judgments.
so the depravations of the inferiours will creep up amongst superiours, and the Vitiousness of Superiours will probably descend to the Commonalty. 2. There was a Concurrence and Complication of all manner of Evil, Wounds, Bruises, putrifying Sores ;
so the depravations of the inferiors will creep up among superiors, and the Viciousness of Superiors will probably descend to the Commonalty. 2. There was a Concurrence and Complication of all manner of Evil, Wounds, Bruises, Putrifying Sores;
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which though they be Metaphorical Terms, are yet so easy and natural that they interpret themselves: In a word; Evils political and moral; Sin and Punishment;
which though they be Metaphorical Terms, Are yet so easy and natural that they interpret themselves: In a word; Evils political and moral; since and Punishment;
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and sore Afflictions, are the things which fill up these expressions. 3. That which rendered the case most deplorable, was, that these Wounds were not closed, nor bound up,
and soar Afflictions, Are the things which fill up these expressions. 3. That which rendered the case most deplorable, was, that these Wounds were not closed, nor bound up,
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but a poor Nation might bleed to Death, and no good Samaritan would do that Office of Love to bind up its Wounds, or (2.) that there was no hand of Authority stretched out to apply more potent Remedies, or (3.) that they judged the case was desperate and the wounds incurable;
but a poor nation might bleed to Death, and no good Samaritan would do that Office of Love to bind up its Wounds, or (2.) that there was no hand of authority stretched out to apply more potent Remedies, or (3.) that they judged the case was desperate and the wounds incurable;
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of which the Prophet complains, Isa. 3.9. The shew of their Countenance doth witness against them, they declare their Sin as Sodom, they hide it not. And the Prophet Ieremiah bewails the same Audaciousness of Sinners, Ier. 8.15. Were they ashamed when they had committed Abomination? Nay, they were not at all ashamed, neither could they blush:
of which the Prophet complains, Isaiah 3.9. The show of their Countenance does witness against them, they declare their since as Sodom, they hide it not. And the Prophet Jeremiah bewails the same Audaciousness of Sinners, Jeremiah 8.15. Were they ashamed when they had committed Abomination? Nay, they were not At all ashamed, neither could they blush:
Those Sins which at their first appearance would humbly plead for some mitigation of Punishment, when they are Flesh'd, and Flush'd with long usage will insist upon justification of themselves,
Those Sins which At their First appearance would humbly plead for Some mitigation of Punishment, when they Are Fleshed, and Flushed with long usage will insist upon justification of themselves,
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Now in the Case of universal Degeneracy, if we attempt a Reformation, it must either be by Advice and Reproof, or Punishment: But 1. Reproof and Counsel give us little hope;
Now in the Case of universal Degeneracy, if we attempt a Reformation, it must either be by advice and Reproof, or Punishment: But 1. Reproof and Counsel give us little hope;
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for his expedient was the same they use at Rome, and upon the same ground, who allow or tolerate the Stews to prevent a greater Evil. Now observe what success his Counsel had upon these obstinate Wretches, v. 9. They said stand back; and they said again, this one Fellow came to sojourn,
for his expedient was the same they use At Room, and upon the same ground, who allow or tolerate the Stews to prevent a greater Evil. Now observe what success his Counsel had upon these obstinate Wretches, v. 9. They said stand back; and they said again, this one Fellow Come to sojourn,
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or to repel the Wind with his own breath, as to shock an universal Deluge of prevailing Abominations. 2. That the Corrupt Majority instead of submitting to the Reproofs of the Minority, will rather punish the Reprovers:
or to repel the Wind with his own breath, as to shock an universal Deluge of prevailing Abominations. 2. That the Corrupt Majority instead of submitting to the Reproofs of the Minority, will rather Punish the Reprovers:
if they can but keep themselves secure from the Magistrates Warrant being served upon their Persons, they will keep themselves safe from the Warrant of Gods Word ever being served upon their Consciences:
if they can but keep themselves secure from the Magistrates Warrant being served upon their Persons, they will keep themselves safe from the Warrant of God's Word ever being served upon their Consciences:
2d. Nor Secondly can we hope for much success where the Wickedness is universal from legal Punishment, because the Punishing the diffusive Body, would be next to the depopulating a whole Nation:
2d. Nor Secondly can we hope for much success where the Wickedness is universal from Legal Punishment, Because the Punishing the diffusive Body, would be next to the depopulating a Whole nation:
and accommodating themselves to the Vanities of great Men, do study to insinuate themselves into their favour, in hopes of some notable Advantage by their Obsequiousness.
and accommodating themselves to the Vanities of great Men, do study to insinuate themselves into their favour, in hope's of Some notable Advantage by their Obsequiousness.
Thus Haman when a great Honour was but once mentioned by Ahasuerus, Esth. 6.6. said in his heart, To whom would the King delight to do honour more than to my self? for having wrought himself into the King's affections he concluded that the first Preferment which fell, would certainly drop into his Mouth.
Thus Haman when a great Honour was but once mentioned by Ahasuerus, Esth. 6.6. said in his heart, To whom would the King delight to do honour more than to my self? for having wrought himself into the King's affections he concluded that the First Preferment which fell, would Certainly drop into his Mouth.
And so also it affords a fair Iustification, Shall I be Wiser than my Teachers? Holier than my Governours? More Precise than my Betters? May-I not go as near the brink of the Pit and never fall in,
And so also it affords a fair Justification, Shall I be Wiser than my Teachers? Holier than my Governors? More Precise than my Betters? Maii not go as near the brink of the Pit and never fallen in,
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as my Superiours? Shall I be a recisian when the Grandees are Latitudinarians? Can I think there can be Poison in that Dish that comes from my Lord's Table? And why should I be stiff,
as my Superiors? Shall I be a recisian when the Grandees Are Latitudinarians? Can I think there can be Poison in that Dish that comes from my Lord's Table? And why should I be stiff,
and morose, when he that affrights me from Sin by his Preaching, invites me to it by his Example? Let us never dream that Reformation will make any considerable progress in a degenerate Age, till God shall send us Holy Magistrates, who by their Regular Examples shall invite us to Reform,
and morose, when he that affrights me from since by his Preaching, invites me to it by his Exampl? Let us never dream that Reformation will make any considerable progress in a degenerate Age, till God shall send us Holy Magistrates, who by their Regular Examples shall invite us to Reform,
For 1. How is it possible that Person should heartily punish an Offender for that Crime of which his own Conscience accuses him to be guilty, Rom. 2.1.
For 1. How is it possible that Person should heartily Punish an Offender for that Crime of which his own Conscience accuses him to be guilty, Rom. 2.1.
If therefore we wave the Divine Authority in the Preceptive part, and conceal the Divine Sanction in the Comminatory part, the Offender has no more to contend with than the Authority of Man,
If Therefore we wave the Divine authority in the Preceptive part, and conceal the Divine Sanction in the Comminatory part, the Offender has no more to contend with than the authority of Man,
Suppose we would lay the Penalty of the Law upon one that profaneth the Lord's Day, in the mean time denying the Morality of the fourth Commandment, what a slender Business should we make of it? He that denys the Ius Divinum, does in effect repeal the Ius Humanum too, for thus the Transgressor argues:
Suppose we would lay the Penalty of the Law upon one that profaneth the Lord's Day, in the mean time denying the Morality of the fourth Commandment, what a slender Business should we make of it? He that denys the Just Divinum, does in Effect repeal the Just Humanum too, for thus the Transgressor argues:
The Apostle therefore in that great Question about Subjection to the higher Powers, charges it upon the Souls of Men, Rom. 13.5. Ye must needs be subject not only for Wrath, but for Conscience sake:
The Apostle Therefore in that great Question about Subjection to the higher Powers, charges it upon the Souls of Men, Rom. 13.5. You must needs be Subject not only for Wrath, but for Conscience sake:
And thus in a few particulars I have shewed whence it is that National Corruptions become so incorrigible, 1. From Inveterate Customs. 2. Universality of the Contagion. 3. The Patronage of great Examples. 4. That Humane Laws are not seconded and back'd by the Law of God. II. What is it that renders the Case of a People so deplorable when their Corruptions are become incurable?
And thus in a few particulars I have showed whence it is that National Corruptions become so incorrigible, 1. From Inveterate Customs. 2. Universality of the Contagion. 3. The Patronage of great Examples. 4. That Humane Laws Are not seconded and backed by the Law of God. II What is it that renders the Case of a People so deplorable when their Corruptions Are become incurable?
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And though the Debauched World could be content, that he would spare both, and let 'em alone, they will soon find it had been their true Interest to have continued under his Discipline,
And though the Debauched World could be content, that he would spare both, and let they alone, they will soon find it had been their true Interest to have continued under his Discipline,
therefore shall the Land mourn, &c. This is terrible, but the most terrible Judgment is that of the 17 th v. Ephraim is joined to Idols, let him alone.
Therefore shall the Land mourn, etc. This is terrible, but the most terrible Judgement is that of the 17 that v. Ephraim is joined to Idols, let him alone.
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'Tis as if a Chirurgeon when he sees an inveterate Ulcer become obstinate, and will submit to no Remedies, should say, What my Art could promise or perform is done,
It's as if a Chirurgeon when he sees an inveterate Ulcer become obstinate, and will submit to no Remedies, should say, What my Art could promise or perform is done,
& God is pleased sometimes to express himself, as if he despair'd of effecting a thoro ' Cure, Isa. 1.5. Why should you be smitten any more, ye will revolt more and more? All my Blows are but like those upon the Anvil, which make it still harder:
& God is pleased sometime to express himself, as if he despaired of effecting a thoro ' Cure, Isaiah 1.5. Why should you be smitten any more, you will revolt more and more? All my Blows Are but like those upon the Anvil, which make it still harder:
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(2.) The Case is Deplorable when God's own Servants, whom He imploys as his Instruments to Reform the Degenerate Age, shall meet with those Discouragements, that they are ready to throw it up as desperate.
(2.) The Case is Deplorable when God's own Servants, whom He employs as his Instruments to Reform the Degenerate Age, shall meet with those Discouragements, that they Are ready to throw it up as desperate.
I would willingly look upon it as a Token for Good from God, that he has raised up such Instruments, who out of Zeal to his Interest, have laid out themselves with unwearied Diligence to reduce the Prophane to some tolerable Consistency with the Profession of the Christian Religion,
I would willingly look upon it as a Token for Good from God, that he has raised up such Instruments, who out of Zeal to his Interest, have laid out themselves with unwearied Diligence to reduce the Profane to Some tolerable Consistency with the Profession of the Christian Religion,
but if we should see them despond, their hearts faint and fail within them, because little or no success answers their pious endeavours, and to hear them cry out, Lord what wouldst thou have us further to do? For Ps. 11.3. If the foundations be destroyed, what can the Righteous do? Why surely no more than, good Fehoshaphat, 2 Chro. 20.12. We know not what to do, but our Eyes are towards thee:
but if we should see them despond, their hearts faint and fail within them, Because little or no success answers their pious endeavours, and to hear them cry out, Lord what Wouldst thou have us further to do? For Ps. 11.3. If the foundations be destroyed, what can the Righteous doe? Why surely no more than, good Fehoshaphat, 2 Chro 20.12. We know not what to do, but our Eyes Are towards thee:
Either to tell us what thou wouldst have us do, or because we can do nothing more, to take thy Work out of our Hands into thy own and do it, who only canst do it effectually thy self.
Either to tell us what thou Wouldst have us do, or Because we can do nothing more, to take thy Work out of our Hands into thy own and do it, who only Canst do it effectually thy self.
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The Servants of Christ are sometimes reduced to that extremity to which the Mariners were, Acts 27.15. When the Ship was caught, and could no longer bear up into the Wind, we let her drive :
The Servants of christ Are sometime reduced to that extremity to which the Mariners were, Acts 27.15. When the Ship was caught, and could no longer bear up into the Wind, we let her drive:
and yet the symptoms are as Threatning as ever, so that God is pleased to speak as if he were at a loss what further to do for their Reformation. Hos. 6.4. O Ephraim, what shall I do to thee? O Judah, what shall I do to thee? I have proved thee with Mercies, I have tryed thee with Judgments, with War and Peace, with Plenty, with Scarcity.
and yet the symptoms Are as Threatening as ever, so that God is pleased to speak as if he were At a loss what further to do for their Reformation. Hos. 6.4. Oh Ephraim, what shall I do to thee? O Judah, what shall I do to thee? I have proved thee with mercies, I have tried thee with Judgments, with War and Peace, with Plenty, with Scarcity.
whether Mercy and Judgment, or Sin and Profaneness should have the Victory: Lev. 26.23. we read there of a People that walked contrary to God in all his Ways:
whither Mercy and Judgement, or since and Profaneness should have the Victory: Lev. 26.23. we read there of a People that walked contrary to God in all his Ways:
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or God in Punishing? 1 Cor. 10.22. Do we provoke the Lord to Iealousie, are we stronger than he? It was excellent Counsel that Solomon has given, Eccles. 6.10. That none should be so Fool-hardy as to contend with one more mighty than himself:
or God in Punishing? 1 Cor. 10.22. Do we provoke the Lord to Jealousy, Are we Stronger than he? It was excellent Counsel that Solomon has given, Eccles. 6.10. That none should be so Foolhardy as to contend with one more mighty than himself:
That when a King goes forth to make War against another, he should first sit down, and consult whether he be able to meet him mith Ten Thousand that comes against him with Twenty Thousand :
That when a King Goes forth to make War against Another, he should First fit down, and consult whither he be able to meet him mith Ten Thousand that comes against him with Twenty Thousand:
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It deserves the consideration of all Sinners to advise well with themselves, Whether Ten Thousand Sins will be able to stand against Twenty Thousand Judgments;
It deserves the consideration of all Sinners to Advice well with themselves, Whither Ten Thousand Sins will be able to stand against Twenty Thousand Judgments;
and whether it be not more advisable, whilst God is yet afar off, to beg Conditions of Peace, to send God a Blank that he may prescribe his own Terms? for how will the Chaff contend with the Whirlwind,
and whither it be not more advisable, while God is yet afar off, to beg Conditions of Peace, to send God a Blank that he may prescribe his own Terms? for how will the Chaff contend with the Whirlwind,
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(4.) The Case of a People is deplorable when Profaneness is incorrigible, and Religion toward God fails, because all Faithfulness towards Man fails also:
(4.) The Case of a People is deplorable when Profaneness is incorrigible, and Religion towards God fails, Because all Faithfulness towards Man fails also:
If Conscience towards God ceases, Confidence among Men will expire: For Religion is the Foundation of all secure Converse, all Safe-dealing in the World.
If Conscience towards God ceases, Confidence among Men will expire: For Religion is the Foundation of all secure Converse, all Safe-dealing in the World.
Suppose we that a Man makes no Conscience of taking Gods Name in vain, but by Swearing, Vain-Swearing, False-Swearing, profanes that Holy Name of his God, shall any one persuade me to believe that he makes a scruple of Murder, Adultery, Stealing, bearing False Witness;
Suppose we that a Man makes no Conscience of taking God's Name in vain, but by Swearing, Vain-Swearing, False-swearing, profanes that Holy Name of his God, shall any one persuade me to believe that he makes a scruple of Murder, Adultery, Stealing, bearing False Witness;
This Doctrine Abraham was not afraid to justify to the King of Gerar 's face, Gen. 20.11. I thought surely the fear of God is not in this place, and they will kill me.
This Doctrine Abraham was not afraid to justify to the King of Gerar is face, Gen. 20.11. I Thought surely the Fear of God is not in this place, and they will kill me.
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that is, where the Duties of the First Table are not regarded, there will be as little respect to those of the Second. Psal. 14.1. The Fool hath said in his heart, there is no God :
that is, where the Duties of the First Table Are not regarded, there will be as little respect to those of the Second. Psalm 14.1. The Fool hath said in his heart, there is no God:
So may we from the effect to the cause, where there is no faithfulness to Man, there is no fear of God, Ps. 36.1. The transgression of the Wicked saith within my heart, There is no fear of God before his eyes.
So may we from the Effect to the cause, where there is no faithfulness to Man, there is no Fear of God, Ps. 36.1. The Transgression of the Wicked Says within my heart, There is no Fear of God before his eyes.
and yet not be with them in their Work; and they are ready to argue: Surely we have done the Lord's Work negligently, because we have done it so unsuccessfully.
and yet not be with them in their Work; and they Are ready to argue: Surely we have done the Lord's Work negligently, Because we have done it so unsuccessfully.
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Well! At last he Addresses himself couragiously to the Service, and yet v. 24. It came to pass, by the way in the Inn, the Lord met him, and sought to kill him. Mysterious Providence!
Well! At last he Addresses himself courageously to the Service, and yet v. 24. It Come to pass, by the Way in the Inn, the Lord met him, and sought to kill him. Mysterious Providence!
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And if he be not sanctified in our hearts, he will be glorified upon the Heads. 2. It's a mysterious Providence that God should reward his Servants for their work,
And if he be not sanctified in our hearts, he will be glorified upon the Heads. 2. It's a mysterious Providence that God should reward his Servants for their work,
Here are two things that may bear up the Spirtis of God's Servants in undertaking and prosecuting his Work, whatever the success be. 1. Their Iudgment is with the Lord.
Here Are two things that may bear up the Spirtis of God's Servants in undertaking and prosecuting his Work, whatever the success be. 1. Their Judgement is with the Lord.
That Labour of Love, That Work of Faith, wherein they have laid out themselves is with God, it lies before him, is laid up with him; it shall not be lost;
That Labour of Love, That Work of Faith, wherein they have laid out themselves is with God, it lies before him, is laid up with him; it shall not be lost;
And this is their great encouragement to be stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the Work of the Lord, knowing that their labour shall not be in vain in the Lord, 1 Cor. 15.58. III. I am now come to the Third and and Last Inquiry, What may be further done (if any thing may yet be done) when inveterate Corruptions, universal Degeneracy seems to have made the Evils incurable:
And this is their great encouragement to be steadfast, Unmovable, always abounding in the Work of the Lord, knowing that their labour shall not be in vain in the Lord, 1 Cor. 15.58. III. I am now come to the Third and and Last Inquiry, What may be further done (if any thing may yet be done) when inveterate Corruptions, universal Degeneracy seems to have made the Evils incurable:
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Iniquity is come in like a flood, and God has lifted up a Standard against it, Isa. 59.19. We see you labouring against great oppositions, and under great discouragements from those Oppositions, and you may justly complain with the Prophet:
Iniquity is come in like a flood, and God has lifted up a Standard against it, Isaiah 59.19. We see you labouring against great oppositions, and under great discouragements from those Oppositions, and you may justly complain with the Prophet:
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Ier. 6.28, 29. They are grievous Revolters, walking with Slaunders, they are Brass and Iron, they are all corrupters, the Bellows are burnt, the Lead is consumed of the Fire, the Founder melteth in vain,
Jeremiah 6.28, 29. They Are grievous Revolters, walking with Slanders, they Are Brass and Iron, they Are all corrupters, the Bellows Are burned, the Led is consumed of the Fire, the Founder melts in vain,
and for this great end do exhort you. 1. To look inwards to your own Hearts. 2. To look up towards your Faithful God. 3. To look outwards to your Discouragements. 4. To look upwards again to the Divine Encouragements. I.
and for this great end do exhort you. 1. To look inward to your own Hearts. 2. To look up towards your Faithful God. 3. To look outward to your Discouragements. 4. To look upward again to the Divine Encouragements. I.
and more couragiously outwards upon all the Oppositions and Discouragements, you shall meet with in your Blessed Work, from this wretched World. §. 1. Look inwards narrowly, search your Hearts severely, whether they be right with God, and for God;
and more courageously outward upon all the Oppositions and Discouragements, you shall meet with in your Blessed Work, from this wretched World. §. 1. Look inward narrowly, search your Hearts severely, whither they be right with God, and for God;
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that is, whether the Honour of God be the great commanding end which governs you in this great Undertaking? VVhether this be the main Spring, the first wheel that gives motion to all your Actions:
that is, whither the Honour of God be the great commanding end which governs you in this great Undertaking? Whether this be the main Spring, the First wheel that gives motion to all your Actions:
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And tho' I hope you did once set them true when you entered upon this good Work, yet examine them whether they have not gone wrong in the prosecution of it.
And though I hope you did once Set them true when you entered upon this good Work, yet examine them whither they have not gone wrong in the prosecution of it.
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When therefore you have searched your selves, while you are searching, and before you search, lift up David 's Prayer, Ps. 139.23, 24. Search me, O God,
When Therefore you have searched your selves, while you Are searching, and before you search, lift up David is Prayer, Ps. 139.23, 24. Search me, Oh God,
Knowing that Righteoosness exalteth a Nation, but Sin is a shame to any People, Prov. 14.34. Righteousness infuses Courage and Gallantry into a People;
Knowing that Righteoosness Exalteth a nation, but since is a shame to any People, Curae 14.34. Righteousness infuses Courage and Gallantry into a People;
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but Debauchery makes 'em Cowards, Effeminates, Enervales, Dispirits them: A good Conscience is the best shield for a great Confidence. Prov. 24.1. The Wicked flee when none pursueth;
but Debauchery makes they Cowards, Effeminates, Enervales, Dispirits them: A good Conscience is the best shield for a great Confidence. Curae 24.1. The Wicked flee when none pursueth;
but Profaneness stains and tarnishes all their Glory, renders them despicable in the eyes of judicious Persons, Deut. 4.7. What People is there so great, who hath God so nigh unto them in all things that we call upon him for:
but Profaneness stains and tarnishes all their Glory, renders them despicable in the eyes of judicious Persons, Deuteronomy 4.7. What People is there so great, who hath God so High unto them in all things that we call upon him for:
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Holiness makes a Nation wise, for the fear of the Lord is the beginning of Wisdom, a good understanding have all they that do his Commandments, Ps. 111.10.
Holiness makes a nation wise, for the Fear of the Lord is the beginning of Wisdom, a good understanding have all they that do his commandments, Ps. 111.10.
These two have been contending from the beginning, and whatever the specious pretences have been, all the Wars, all the Contentions that have been managed ever since, were nothing but the Bickerings and Skirmishes of that old enmity put between the two Seeds, Gen. 3.15. These Interests can never be reconcil'd, Christ glories in the Title of a Saviour, and the Devil in that of a Murtherer and Destroyer: The Enmity of Satan is founded in this;
These two have been contending from the beginning, and whatever the specious pretences have been, all the Wars, all the Contentions that have been managed ever since, were nothing but the Bickerings and Skirmishes of that old enmity put between the two Seeds, Gen. 3.15. These Interests can never be reconciled, christ Glories in the Title of a Saviour, and the devil in that of a Murderer and Destroyer: The Enmity of Satan is founded in this;
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to draw over to his Interest poor deluded Souls, wherein, tho' he cannot hope to mitigate his own Torments by the multitudes of those he draws to Hell with him,
to draw over to his Interest poor deluded Souls, wherein, though he cannot hope to mitigate his own Torments by the Multitudes of those he draws to Hell with him,
nor the Offender in the face when he stands as a Delinquent before the Magistrate; nor Conscience in the face when you shall view your selves in that glass;
nor the Offender in the face when he Stands as a Delinquent before the Magistrate; nor Conscience in the face when you shall view your selves in that glass;
Look into your Families, to your Children and Servants, begin your Reformation at home, and let David 's Rule and Resolution be yours: Psal. 101.2. I will behave my self Wisely in a perfect Way, I will walk in the mid'st of my House with a perfect Heart.
Look into your Families, to your Children and Servants, begin your Reformation At home, and let David is Rule and Resolution be yours: Psalm 101.2. I will behave my self Wisely in a perfect Way, I will walk in the midst of my House with a perfect Heart.
so noble Zeal that you could go out, and still go on in the meer conscience of your duty towards God, expecting your Recompence from him alone, whatever the success shall be.
so noble Zeal that you could go out, and still go on in the mere conscience of your duty towards God, expecting your Recompense from him alone, whatever the success shall be.
Account it so, and God will have you account it little till you have reformed the whole Nation, till all Impiety shall hide its face, and stop its mouth:
Account it so, and God will have you account it little till you have reformed the Whole nation, till all Impiety shall hide its face, and stop its Mouth:
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But however little the success of your Pious Endeavours shall be, it has this great Thing in it, That God graciously accepts and approves of your VVork,
But however little the success of your Pious Endeavours shall be, it has this great Thing in it, That God graciously accepts and approves of your VVork,
and give me leave to recommend these few Things as proper materials to fill up your Prayer. 1. Pray earnestly that God would strengthen your Hearts and Hands against all discouragements you may meet with in this difficult Service:
and give me leave to recommend these few Things as proper materials to fill up your Prayer. 1. prey earnestly that God would strengthen your Hearts and Hands against all discouragements you may meet with in this difficult Service:
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if ▪ he will be with you, & for you, no matter who is against you. David argu'd thus, Ps : 41.11. By this I know that thou favour'st me, because my enemy doth not triumph over me.
if ▪ he will be with you, & for you, no matter who is against you. David argued thus, Psalm: 41.11. By this I know that thou favourest me, Because my enemy does not triumph over me.
He that would overcome the Devil must first prevail with God: which was Holy Iacob 's method, Gen. 32.28. who first prevail'd with the Angel, and then easily persuaded Esau: 2. Pray again, and pray earnestly that God would put a Spirit of Zeal into the hearts of all those into whose hands he has put Power and Authority.
He that would overcome the devil must First prevail with God: which was Holy Iacob is method, Gen. 32.28. who First prevailed with the Angel, and then Easily persuaded Esau: 2. prey again, and pray earnestly that God would put a Spirit of Zeal into the hearts of all those into whose hands he has put Power and authority.
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You have the Law of God, the Laws of Man for you, and yet the Enemies of both, these Cursing, Swearing, Sabbath-breaking Wretches, are in many instances too hard for you:
You have the Law of God, the Laws of Man for you, and yet the Enemies of both, these Cursing, Swearing, Sabbath-breaking Wretches, Are in many instances too hard for you:
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It is a serious Question, and not rashly to be determin'd, Whether the Corruptions and Profanenesses, which abound at this day, may be justly call'd National Sins? Of which I would give my Opinion without any positive or peremptory Determination. 1. It is too evident to be denied,
It is a serious Question, and not rashly to be determined, Whither the Corruptions and Profanenesses, which abound At this day, may be justly called National Sins? Of which I would give my Opinion without any positive or peremptory Determination. 1. It is too evident to be denied,
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and an increase of Sin in one kind or other, amongst all sorts of Men. 2. That it is thankfully owned that our Legislators, by their good Laws against the most prevailing Abominations, have acquitted themselves of the guilt of these Corruptions:
and an increase of since in one kind or other, among all sorts of Men. 2. That it is thankfully owned that our Legislators, by their good Laws against the most prevailing Abominations, have acquitted themselves of the guilt of these Corruptions:
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and to proceed vigorously therein, so that the Guilt will not lie there. 4. God has raised up a considerable number of faithful Magistrates, who have appeared freely in this Service:
and to proceed vigorously therein, so that the Gilded will not lie there. 4. God has raised up a considerable number of faithful Magistrates, who have appeared freely in this Service:
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5. You that have engaged in these hopeful Societies for Reformation, have contributed to prevent these Immoralities which are too much National by their extent from becoming National by Guilt and Condemnation;
5. You that have engaged in these hopeful Societies for Reformation, have contributed to prevent these Immoralities which Are too much National by their extent from becoming National by Gilded and Condemnation;
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or Redress. 3. Pray without ceasing, that God would pour out of his Spirit upon all Ministers of his Word and Sacraments, that by their unwearied Labours the consciences of the Profane may be strongly touched,
or Redress. 3. prey without ceasing, that God would pour out of his Spirit upon all Ministers of his Word and Sacraments, that by their unwearied Labours the Consciences of the Profane may be strongly touched,
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I shall not need to advise you to look outwards to that Treatment you are to expect from those Flagitious Ones, whose Crimes call for your most severe Animadversion. I hope you have fate down and reckon'd it up with your selves what it might cost your before you enter'd upon,
I shall not need to Advice you to look outward to that Treatment you Are to expect from those Flagitious Ones, whose Crimes call for your most severe Animadversion. I hope you have fate down and reckoned it up with your selves what it might cost your before you entered upon,
§. 1. You will meet with a generation of Men, who tho' they have been emptied from Vessel to Vessel, are yet settled upon their Lees. A sort of Sinners represented to the Prophet in a Vision, Ez. 24.6. By a Pot which had long been on the Fire, yet the scum remained in it:
§. 1. You will meet with a generation of Men, who though they have been emptied from Vessel to Vessel, Are yet settled upon their Lees. A sort of Sinners represented to the Prophet in a Vision, Ezra 24.6. By a Pot which had long been on the Fire, yet the scum remained in it:
Of whom another Prophet speaks as a generation of intractable and incorrigible Sinners, Ier. 6.28. They are all grievous Revolters, walking with Slaunders, they are Brass and Iron, they are all Corrupters :
Of whom Another Prophet speaks as a generation of intractable and incorrigible Sinners, Jeremiah 6.28. They Are all grievous Revolters, walking with Slanders, they Are Brass and Iron, they Are all Corrupters:
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Now what success can you hope for when you must practice upon such as these? Would you put the Yoke of Divine and Humane Laws upon them? Their Neck is an Iron Sinew!
Now what success can you hope for when you must practice upon such as these? Would you put the Yoke of Divine and Humane Laws upon them? Their Neck is an Iron Sinew!
you would make a Figure, be some great thing in the World ▪ 'Tis your comfort that they who usurp a Judgment over you in their Day, shall not be your Judges in the great Day, 1 Cor. 4, 5. It's a very small thing that I should be judged of you,
you would make a Figure, be Some great thing in the World ▪ It's your Comfort that they who usurp a Judgement over you in their Day, shall not be your Judges in the great Day, 1 Cor. 4, 5. It's a very small thing that I should be judged of you,
but the Shield of your own Integrity, 2 Cor. 1.12. Our Rejoicing is this, The Testimony of our Conscience, that in simplicity and godly sincerity, we have had our Conversation in the World.
but the Shield of your own Integrity, 2 Cor. 1.12. Our Rejoicing is this, The Testimony of our Conscience, that in simplicity and godly sincerity, we have had our Conversation in the World.
Jesus Christ has not a more pernicious Enemy than unsactified Wit: Now this sort of Men will dart many a sharp pointed Scoff at your Proceedings, and the Success of them:
jesus christ has not a more pernicious Enemy than unsactified Wit: Now this sort of Men will dart many a sharp pointed Scoff At your Proceedings, and the Success of them:
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And when Nehemiah came to Reform Matters at Ierusalem, he could not escape the virulent insults of Tobiah, and Sballat, Nehem. 4.2, 3, 4. What will these feeble Iews do? Will they make an end in one day? Even that which they build,
And when Nehemiah Come to Reform Matters At Ierusalem, he could not escape the virulent insults of Tobiah, and Sballat, Nehemiah 4.2, 3, 4. What will these feeble Iews doe? Will they make an end in one day? Even that which they built,
and your own Zeal quickly cooled, and then when the restraint of these Laws shall be a little relaxed, you will see all things run in their Old Channels,
and your own Zeal quickly cooled, and then when the restraint of these Laws shall be a little relaxed, you will see all things run in their Old Channels,
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§. 4. And may you not reasonably apprehend a Spirit of bitter and bloody Revenge already boiling in the hearts of those whom the Laws have met withal in their Exorbitancies? Some Sparks of that temper even now breaks out at the mouth of the Furnace from when you may easily conjecture at the desperate Heat that burns within:
§. 4. And may you not reasonably apprehend a Spirit of bitter and bloody Revenge already boiling in the hearts of those whom the Laws have met withal in their Extravagancies? some Sparks of that temper even now breaks out At the Mouth of the Furnace from when you may Easily conjecture At the desperate Heat that burns within:
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like those wary prudent Ones, ( Esther 3.4.) who waited to see how Mordecai ' s matters would stand: The cooler sort of Professors are rather, of the two,
like those wary prudent Ones, (Esther 3.4.) who waited to see how Mordecai ' s matters would stand: The cooler sort of Professors Are rather, of the two,
for you than against you, only the Sincere of all Persuasions and Denominations wish you good success in the Name of the Lord, and God himself, who is more than all that are for you,
for you than against you, only the Sincere of all Persuasions and Denominations wish you good success in the Name of the Lord, and God himself, who is more than all that Are for you,
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It's a notable evidence of Sincerity, when we go on in the way of our Duty, upon the security of God's Authority, whatever Difficulties we meet with in the way,
It's a notable evidence of Sincerity, when we go on in the Way of our Duty, upon the security of God's authority, whatever Difficulties we meet with in the Way,
But Faith knows how to set the Strength of God against your own Weakness, and the Strength of Enemies: Ps. 56.3. What time I am afraid, I will put my trust in thee.
But Faith knows how to Set the Strength of God against your own Weakness, and the Strength of Enemies: Ps. 56.3. What time I am afraid, I will put my trust in thee.
it would move Pitty in the Heart of any one to see how contemptuously the Devil insults over those Souls he has got into his own power: 2 Tim. 2.26. They are taken Captive by him at his will:
it would move Pity in the Heart of any one to see how contemptuously the devil insults over those Souls he has god into his own power: 2 Tim. 2.26. They Are taken Captive by him At his will:
As if he would adorn his Victory by dragging them behind his Triumphant Chariot: Mark 9.22. He casts them into the Fire, and into the Water, as if he would make sport with immortal Souls.
As if he would adorn his Victory by dragging them behind his Triumphant Chariot: Mark 9.22. He Cast them into the Fire, and into the Water, as if he would make sport with immortal Souls.
6. A good Conscience, and its Testimony, will be responsible for all the Evil you may incur, all the Good you may hazard or lose for the asserting it:
6. A good Conscience, and its Testimony, will be responsible for all the Evil you may incur, all the Good you may hazard or loose for the asserting it:
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