A SERMON Preach't at Christ-Church Dublin, upon the EPIPHANY. 1672. MATTH. II. VER. 10, 11. When they saw the star, they rejoyced with exceeding great joy.
A SERMON Preached At Christ church Dublin, upon the EPIPHANY. 1672. MATTHEW. II VER. 10, 11. When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy.
TO discover the sweet consent and harmony betwixt the Old Testament and the New, in relation to the most efficacious and universal Redemption of all Mankind, by the coming of Christ into the world, tis enough to consider the Types and Prophesies of the one exactly fulfilled in the other.
TO discover the sweet consent and harmony betwixt the Old Testament and the New, in Relation to the most efficacious and universal Redemption of all Mankind, by the coming of christ into the world, this enough to Consider the Types and prophecies of the one exactly fulfilled in the other.
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The miraculous call of the Gentiles unto the profession of the Christian Faith under the dispensation of the Gospel, was not only foretold by Prophesies,
The miraculous call of the Gentiles unto the profession of the Christian Faith under the Dispensation of the Gospel, was not only foretold by prophecies,
Amongst the Prophesies, we find one most eminent Recorded, Gen. 9. 27. where righteous Noah then languishing under the burthen of an old Patriarchal age,
among the prophecies, we find one most eminent Recorded, Gen. 9. 27. where righteous Noah then languishing under the burden of an old Patriarchal age,
and variety of Paternal cares, fill'd nevertheless with the sacred and vigorous Instincts of the Holy Ghost, who at a long prospect discovered unto him the large extent of a spiritual Kingdom by the Messias; in this his Prophetick Vision, cryes out, Blessed be the Lord God of Shem, God shall enlarge Japhet, and he shall dwell in the Tents of Shem. In which Prophesie, we find two things remarkable, to make our way more easie for this ensuing Discourse.
and variety of Paternal Cares, filled nevertheless with the sacred and vigorous Instincts of the Holy Ghost, who At a long prospect discovered unto him the large extent of a spiritual Kingdom by the Messias; in this his Prophetic Vision, cries out, Blessed be the Lord God of Shem, God shall enlarge Japheth, and he shall dwell in the Tents of Shem. In which Prophesy, we find two things remarkable, to make our Way more easy for this ensuing Discourse.
which promise he made good afterwards unto Shem 's posterity, the Children of Israel: For the Israelites, through God's miraculous mercy, being delivered out of the Egyptian Bondage,
which promise he made good afterwards unto Shem is posterity, the Children of Israel: For the Israelites, through God's miraculous mercy, being Delivered out of the Egyptian Bondage,
and conducted through the Wilderness into the promised Land, put off the Tabernacle of the Covenant, in which the glory of the Lord appeared, and forth with God began to talk with them from amidst two Cherubins;
and conducted through the Wilderness into the promised Land, put off the Tabernacle of the Covenant, in which the glory of the Lord appeared, and forth with God began to talk with them from amid two Cherubim;
2. We are given to Note here another Prophesie concerning Japhet, That he should inhabit the Tabernacle or Tents of Shem. The meaning whereof is this, That the Gentiles to be born in time of the Seed of Japhet, were to be call'd into a close fellowship and communion with the Church and People of the Jewes, under the new Oeconomy of the Gospel.
2. We Are given to Note Here Another Prophesy Concerning Japheth, That he should inhabit the Tabernacle or Tents of Shem. The meaning whereof is this, That the Gentiles to be born in time of the Seed of Japheth, were to be called into a close fellowship and communion with the Church and People of the Jews, under the new Oeconomy of the Gospel.
And many other Prophesies of the like nature there are up and down extant in the Books of Moses, the Psalms, and Prophets, that bear Testimony to the matter in hand.
And many other prophecies of the like nature there Are up and down extant in the Books of Moses, the Psalms, and prophets, that bear Testimony to the matter in hand.
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Ahinoam the Jezreelite. And Abigail the Carmelite; which (according to the judgment of the soundest Divines) Typified, That our blessed Saviour, the Son of David, according to the flesh, should unite in that one body of the Church his Spouse both Jewes and Gentiles. Likewise we have the Emblem of it in the Monarchical Government of King David, who extended his Empire over the Idumaeans, Philistines, Moabites and Syrians, as well as over his Native Body Politick of the Jewes. We have the same no less prefigured by the Queen of Sheba 's advancing out of the South, to behold the Greatness of Solomon: viz. That through the sound of the Gospel throughout the World, the Nations which were afar off, should flock in,
Ahinoam the Jezreelite. And Abigail the Carmelite; which (according to the judgement of the soundest Divines) Typified, That our blessed Saviour, the Son of David, according to the Flesh, should unite in that one body of the Church his Spouse both Jews and Gentiles. Likewise we have the Emblem of it in the Monarchical Government of King David, who extended his Empire over the Idumaeans, philistines, Moabites and Syrians, as well as over his Native Body Politic of the Jews. We have the same no less prefigured by the Queen of Sheba is advancing out of the South, to behold the Greatness of Solomon: viz. That through the found of the Gospel throughout the World, the nations which were afar off, should flock in,
By these, and many more such like Prophetick Oracles, and Typical Adumbrations, the holy Men of old times beheld the dawning of this day, which sixteen hundred years ago,
By these, and many more such like Prophetic Oracles, and Typical Adumbrations, the holy Men of old times beheld the dawning of this day, which sixteen hundred Years ago,
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the Constellation of all whose greatest Luminaries in their full splendor at once, if compar'd with it, were but as the light of a Candle to the Noon-day;
the Constellation of all whose greatest Luminaries in their full splendour At once, if compared with it, were but as the Light of a Candle to the Noonday;
for this day was illuminated by the Son of Righteousness incarnate, and it's Illuminations augmented by the kind influences of an extraordinary Star, inviting the Eastern Magi to come forthwith,
for this day was illuminated by the Son of Righteousness incarnate, and it's Illuminations augmented by the kind influences of an extraordinary Star, inviting the Eastern Magi to come forthwith,
than the Twelve imaginary Houses of the Astrologers in the Celestial Spheres; for so it follows, And lo, the Star which they saw in the East, went before them, till it came and stood over where the young childe was:
than the Twelve imaginary Houses of the Astrologers in the Celestial Spheres; for so it follows, And lo, the Star which they saw in the East, went before them, till it Come and stood over where the young child was:
And when they saw the star, they rejoyced with exceeding great joy, &c. This Day, commonly called by the ancient Churches, The day of holy Illuminations, or Feast of Lights, hath been held famous for three Things, under that one name of Epiphanies, or Three manifestations of Christ to the World after divers manners.
And when they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy, etc. This Day, commonly called by the ancient Churches, The day of holy Illuminations, or Feast of Lights, hath been held famous for three Things, under that one name of Epiphanies, or Three manifestations of christ to the World After diverse manners.
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Thirdly, To his own Countreymen of Galilee, in that house of Nuptials where he shew'd his first Miracle of changing water into wine, thence called NONLATINALPHABET.
Thirdly, To his own Countrymen of Galilee, in that house of Nuptials where he showed his First Miracle of changing water into wine, thence called.
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Upon which account, it is storied of Julian the Apostate and Emperour, That least he should be detected for an Idolater, whereof he was asham'd, he was minded to appear in publick this Day, which, in the month of January (sayes he) the Christians solemnize, and call by the name of Epiphanies.
Upon which account, it is storied of Julian the Apostate and Emperor, That lest he should be detected for an Idolater, whereof he was ashamed, he was minded to appear in public this Day, which, in the Monn of January (Says he) the Christians solemnize, and call by the name of Epiphanies.
St. Chrysostom and Theophylact upon the place, hold it to be that Angel which appeared unto the Shepherds near Bethlehem, telling them the tydings of our Saviours Nativity.
Saint Chrysostom and Theophylact upon the place, hold it to be that Angel which appeared unto the Shepherd's near Bethlehem, telling them the tidings of our Saviors Nativity.
And they have some colour for it, for it was an usual way with the Angels under the Old Law, to appear in the Radiations of Light, or the Vibrations of Fire:
And they have Some colour for it, for it was an usual Way with the Angels under the Old Law, to appear in the Radiations of Light, or the Vibrations of Fire:
Lastly, Some are of this Opinion, That it was the Holy Ghost, who now might as well transform himself into an indulgent Star, to direct the Wise men in their way to the New-born Jesus,
Lastly, some Are of this Opinion, That it was the Holy Ghost, who now might as well transform himself into an indulgent Star, to Direct the Wise men in their Way to the Newborn jesus,
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as also long after that, at Pentecost, he descended again on his Apostles and the Brethren assembled together, in the likeness of Cloven fiery Tongues.
as also long After that, At Pentecost, he descended again on his Apostles and the Brothers assembled together, in the likeness of Cloven fiery Tongues.
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for then certainly after such a long Tract of Time and Revolution of the Heavens, from the fourth dayes Creation unto that of its appearance, it must needs have been seen.
for then Certainly After such a long Tract of Time and Revolution of the Heavens, from the fourth days Creation unto that of its appearance, it must needs have been seen.
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But all the Astronomers and Historians in the World, from the beginning, unto this day, are altogether silent about it (as to its appearance) save onely at that time.
But all the Astronomers and Historians in the World, from the beginning, unto this day, Are altogether silent about it (as to its appearance) save only At that time.
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Neither indeed, could it in reason be one of the natural Stars of the first Creation, because of their periodical courses, and limited progressions from East to West, from which they can never erre.
Neither indeed, could it in reason be one of the natural Stars of the First Creation, Because of their Periodical courses, and limited progressions from East to West, from which they can never err.
Nor consequently a Comet can it be, which (according to Natural Philosophy) does generally obey the motion of that Star which inflam'd it. But this salutiferous Star deriving not its designs from Nature, passeth from Jerusalem towards Bethlehem, i. e.
Nor consequently a Cometam can it be, which (according to Natural Philosophy) does generally obey the motion of that Star which inflamed it. But this salutiferous Star deriving not its designs from Nature, passes from Jerusalem towards Bethlehem, i. e.
quite contrary from North, to Southwards, according to the intention of it's Maker, which was, That it should make him manifest unto these hopeful Princely Pilgrims, to their great joy at their Arrival. See see!
quite contrary from North, to Southwards, according to the intention of it's Maker, which was, That it should make him manifest unto these hopeful Princely Pilgrim's, to their great joy At their Arrival. See see!
like the Soul of Man (which Solomon terms the Candle of the Lord) as if possest with such a Soul, gives light all along to these noble Souls, conducts them to that very spot of ground where the sweet Babe lay, the very centre of their aims and desires.
like the Soul of Man (which Solomon terms the Candle of the Lord) as if possessed with such a Soul, gives Light all along to these noble Souls, conducts them to that very spot of ground where the sweet Babe lay, the very centre of their aims and Desires.
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Besides all this, for further proof, we may consider its scituation, that it was not in any of the Celestial Orbs, but in the Air, and that in the lower Region of it too;
Beside all this, for further proof, we may Consider its situation, that it was not in any of the Celestial Orbs, but in the Air, and that in the lower Region of it too;
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by which near distance (which cannot be supposed of the created Stars in the beginning, because of their vast remoteness from the earth) commodiously leading them on their way by Night, and failing not in the diffusion of its beams by Day also (probably that they might see how to take a shorter cut unto their journies end) until it made a stand over the very House where they were to congratulate their New born King. And after all this,
by which near distance (which cannot be supposed of the created Stars in the beginning, Because of their vast remoteness from the earth) commodiously leading them on their Way by Night, and failing not in the diffusion of its beams by Day also (probably that they might see how to take a shorter Cut unto their journeys end) until it made a stand over the very House where they were to congratulate their New born King. And After all this,
when it had perform'd the Office design'd by the All-wise Creator of it, it ceased at once to illuminate and exist; being dissolv'd at last by the same hand that made it into that primitive matter out of which he produc't it.
when it had performed the Office designed by the Alwise Creator of it, it ceased At once to illuminate and exist; being dissolved At last by the same hand that made it into that primitive matter out of which he produced it.
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But how should this speechless Star (may some say) be able to teach these Wise men so great a mystery (hidden from the Ages) as this of the Nativity of the worlds Saviour? Was there nothing more in the matter think ye, that should occasion them to take so tedious,
But how should this speechless Star (may Some say) be able to teach these Wise men so great a mystery (hidden from the Ages) as this of the Nativity of the world's Saviour? Was there nothing more in the matter think you, that should occasion them to take so tedious,
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so difficult a journey (as this must needs be) and to prosecute with so much eagerness of mind, a thing, which on the Jews part at least, if not from others, must needs create unto them a great deal of Envy and Detraction? Yes doubtless;
so difficult a journey (as this must needs be) and to prosecute with so much eagerness of mind, a thing, which on the jews part At least, if not from Others, must needs create unto them a great deal of Envy and Detraction? Yes doubtless;
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This saving knowledge of God Incarnate, was taught them inwardly, by the Illuminations of the Holy Spirit, as well as outwardly by the light of a star. That supernatural light within them, taught them all things of him, who was to be afterwards a light to lighten the Gentiles, as he was then the glory of his people Israel.
This Saving knowledge of God Incarnate, was taught them inwardly, by the Illuminations of the Holy Spirit, as well as outwardly by the Light of a star. That supernatural Light within them, taught them all things of him, who was to be afterwards a Light to lighten the Gentiles, as he was then the glory of his people Israel.
Who knows but that they might have had the view and perusal of the five Books of Moses, as probably as Plato, Plutarch, and several of the Roman Poets, Gentiles as well as they;
Who knows but that they might have had the view and perusal of the five Books of Moses, as probably as Plato, Plutarch, and several of the Roman Poets, Gentiles as well as they;
Supposing which, or supposing it not, they might nevertheless, by the gracious Dictates of the Holy Ghost, be told of a certain Prophesie of one of their own Countreymen, Balaam by name, fam'd over all the East for a great Diviner, as you find it Recorded, Numb. 24. 17. There shall come a star out of Jacob:
Supposing which, or supposing it not, they might nevertheless, by the gracious Dictates of the Holy Ghost, be told of a certain Prophesy of one of their own Countrymen, balaam by name, famed over all the East for a great Diviner, as you find it Recorded, Numb. 24. 17. There shall come a star out of Jacob:
Which Prophesie does so exactly agree with the Wise mens question and reason (Where is he that is born King of the Jewes, for we have seen his star?) that these two Stars, these two Texts, do seem wholly and directly to face and enlighten each other.
Which Prophesy does so exactly agree with the Wise men's question and reason (Where is he that is born King of the Jews, for we have seen his star?) that these two Stars, these two Texts, do seem wholly and directly to face and enlighten each other.
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There goes a Story therefore to this purpose (which I shall leave to your grave Judgments to think of it (as you please) as to its Credibility) That the Persian Magi elected out of their own number Twelve, which year by year were to go up to the top of the Victorial Mountain so called,
There Goes a Story Therefore to this purpose (which I shall leave to your grave Judgments to think of it (as you please) as to its Credibility) That the Persian Magi elected out of their own number Twelve, which year by year were to go up to the top of the Victorial Mountain so called,
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and there abiding three dayes, were wont to wash themselves over, and pray to God, that he would manifest unto them that Star of which Balaam had prophesied.
and there abiding three days, were wont to wash themselves over, and pray to God, that he would manifest unto them that Star of which balaam had prophesied.
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Upon the day of the Nativity therefore abiding upon the Hill full of expectations, the Star appears unto them in the shape of a fair lovely Boy, with a Cross shining over his Head,
Upon the day of the Nativity Therefore abiding upon the Hill full of Expectations, the Star appears unto them in the shape of a fair lovely Boy, with a Cross shining over his Head,
We cannot but blame however the vain and profane Confidence of impious Astrologers, in avouching, That the Wise men attain'd unto the knowledge of Christ his Nativity, by the Rules and Methods of that their Science, which is chiefly conversant about the natural and ordinary Stars:
We cannot but blame however the vain and profane Confidence of impious Astrologers, in avouching, That the Wise men attained unto the knowledge of christ his Nativity, by the Rules and Methods of that their Science, which is chiefly conversant about the natural and ordinary Stars:
But not to be beholding to any the least suspected Author, we have besides a very ancient and authentick one to enlighten us about this Star, Chalcidius by name, a Platonick Philosopher, who liv'd and wrote a little after Christ.
But not to be beholding to any the least suspected Author, we have beside a very ancient and authentic one to enlighten us about this Star, Chalcidius by name, a Platonic Philosopher, who lived and wrote a little After christ.
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Est & alia sanctior & venerabilior historia, quae perhibet ortum Stellae insolitae, &c. There is (sayes he) a more holy and venerable story which gives out the rise of a new Star, not foretelling Mortality,
Est & Alias sanctior & venerabilior History, Quae perhibet Garden Star insolitae, etc. There is (Says he) a more holy and venerable story which gives out the rise of a new Star, not foretelling Mortality,
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Having now given you a sufficient account of the Star in the Text. Our Meditations, as to practical Inferences, shall fix and expatiate themselves thus.
Having now given you a sufficient account of the Star in the Text. Our Meditations, as to practical Inferences, shall fix and expatiate themselves thus.
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You have taught us, O ye wise Princes of the East, or rather that Star that taught you, hath instructed us to sympathize with you in the real manly expressions of an exceeding rejoycing & triumphant joy.
You have taught us, Oh you wise Princes of the East, or rather that Star that taught you, hath instructed us to sympathise with you in the real manly expressions of an exceeding rejoicing & triumphant joy.
We fall down therfore, and with humble adorations congratulate the riches of thy mercy, O Lord of life, for that thou wast pleased, through the miraculous conception of holy Mary, to give unto us the assurance of eternal happiness, by the word Incarnate; and to declare the same, by the apparition of a new created Star, to those first fruits and forerunners of us miserable Gentiles: From the conduct of whom, by the light of this material One to thee, O holy Jesus, who art that Star of Jacob foretold, that bright morning Star, acknowledged from thine own mouth, Rev. 22. 16. We who are of the same stock and lineage,
We fallen down Therefore, and with humble adorations congratulate the riches of thy mercy, Oh Lord of life, for that thou wast pleased, through the miraculous conception of holy Marry, to give unto us the assurance of Eternal happiness, by the word Incarnate; and to declare the same, by the apparition of a new created Star, to those First fruits and forerunners of us miserable Gentiles: From the conduct of whom, by the Light of this material One to thee, Oh holy jesus, who art that Star of Jacob foretold, that bright morning Star, acknowledged from thine own Mouth, Rev. 22. 16. We who Are of the same stock and lineage,
but everlasting happiness to the forlorn Souls of Rebel criminals, and such a Star as leaves them not, till it have brought them to the child Jesus, even to God himself;
but everlasting happiness to the forlorn Souls of Rebel criminals, and such a Star as leaves them not, till it have brought them to the child jesus, even to God himself;
For if we are bound to pay unto God all chearful homage and adoration for that his general providence over us, in making the ordinary Stars to dance attendance upon us, to shine, to lead, to fight sometimes in their courses, to effectuate health in our bodies,
For if we Are bound to pay unto God all cheerful homage and adoration for that his general providence over us, in making the ordinary Stars to dance attendance upon us, to shine, to led, to fight sometime in their courses, to effectuate health in our bodies,
or the Son of man, that thou thus visitest him, visitest him with Stars!) What a noble joy and gratulation should the consideration of God's especial Providence over us Gentiles, produce in our Souls, in sending us a Star, in setting up for us a Standard of light, to invite and guide us, to warm and cherish us, to support and replenish us with the All-healing Benedictions of a far more glorious Star, our Sun of Righteousness.
or the Son of man, that thou thus visitest him, visitest him with Stars!) What a noble joy and gratulation should the consideration of God's especial Providence over us Gentiles, produce in our Souls, in sending us a Star, in setting up for us a Standard of Light, to invite and guide us, to warm and cherish us, to support and replenish us with the All-healing Benedictions of a Far more glorious Star, our Sun of Righteousness.
In that God, who of Old was pleased to lead the children of Israel through the Wilderness into the Regions of the Gentiles, by the pillar of a cloud by day,
In that God, who of Old was pleased to led the children of Israel through the Wilderness into the Regions of the Gentiles, by the pillar of a cloud by day,
what were we? we were a people sitting in darkness, and might have continued unto this day groveling in the thick darkness of Ignorance, Infidelity, and horrours of Idolatry!
what were we? we were a people sitting in darkness, and might have continued unto this day groveling in the thick darkness of Ignorance, Infidelity, and horrors of Idolatry!
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Was it not now a manifestation of miraculous mercy, a matter of superabundant joy, that God should thus discriminate us of the latter Times, from Nations far more worthy than our selves, pulling us like Brands out of the fire,
Was it not now a manifestation of miraculous mercy, a matter of superabundant joy, that God should thus discriminate us of the latter Times, from nations Far more worthy than our selves, pulling us like Brands out of the fire,
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When we were without hope, and without God in the world, as the Apostle tells us, strangers to the Covenant of promise, Aliens to the Commonwealth of Israel, wilde Olive-trees, Dogs under the Table (in our Saviours terms) poor, blind, miserable, and naked Orphans;
When we were without hope, and without God in the world, as the Apostle tells us, Strangers to the Covenant of promise, Aliens to the Commonwealth of Israel, wild Olive-trees, Dogs under the Table (in our Saviors terms) poor, blind, miserable, and naked Orphans;
with the splendour of Christ Jesus his personal excellencies, with the pure lustre of God's holy Word to guide our Feet into the wayes of peace, with the refreshing Rayes of supernatural grace, faith and hope through his merits;
with the splendour of christ jesus his personal excellencies, with the pure lustre of God's holy Word to guide our Feet into the ways of peace, with the refreshing Rays of supernatural grace, faith and hope through his merits;
Dispell the dark mists of Sin and Infidelity which overcloud our minds and wills! Dry up the damps of Original Concupiscence in our hearts, by the warmth of a mighty grace,
Dispel the dark mists of since and Infidelity which overcloud our minds and wills! Dry up the damps of Original Concupiscence in our hearts, by the warmth of a mighty grace,
That at the last, becoming the sons and daughters of Epiphanies, we may walk as becomes Children of the Father of Lights, and as Brethren of the Son and Heir of Lights, shining in all manner of Purity and Integrity throughout the whole course of our Conversations.
That At the last, becoming the Sons and daughters of Epiphanies, we may walk as becomes Children of the Father of Lights, and as Brothers of the Son and Heir of Lights, shining in all manner of Purity and Integrity throughout the Whole course of our Conversations.
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Secondly, Now follows as a second Branch of my propounded method, that in the same order by way of Historical Narration, and profitable Inferences, we speak somewhat,
Secondly, Now follows as a second Branch of my propounded method, that in the same order by Way of Historical Narration, and profitable Inferences, we speak somewhat,
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Of these early Votaries, and true Converts to the Son of God, and Discipline of his Kingdom, there is a great Controversie amongst the most eminent of the Fathers, whether they were Kings or no.
Of these early Votaries, and true Converts to the Son of God, and Discipline of his Kingdom, there is a great Controversy among the most eminent of the Father's, whither they were Kings or no.
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For the name of Magi both in Persia and Arabia, was a name of men highly eminent for their extraction, as well as for profound Learning and Employ. That in general they were Princes and Philosophers of the highest rank, it seems to be clear, from the Character that Cicero gives them in his learned Book de Divinatione, where he sayes, Nullum Persarum Regem esse potuisse qui non ante Magorum disciplinam scientiamque percepisset, i. e.
For the name of Magi both in Persiam and Arabia, was a name of men highly eminent for their extraction, as well as for profound Learning and Employ. That in general they were Princes and Philosophers of the highest rank, it seems to be clear, from the Character that Cicero gives them in his learned Book the Divination, where he Says, Nullum Parsarum Regem esse potuisse qui non ante Magorum Disciplinam scientiamque percepisset, i. e.
That he was utterly uncapable to be King of Persia, who had not been in some good measure experienc'd in the Discipline and Wisdom of the Magi. And that they were men of the greatest state and place,
That he was utterly uncapable to be King of Persiam, who had not been in Some good measure experienced in the Discipline and Wisdom of the Magi. And that they were men of the greatest state and place,
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if not Kings themselves, yet Kings Privy Counsellors, he assures us by another Character that he gives them elsewhere in the same Book, Sine auctoritate & consilio Magorum (sayes he) constat ne ipsis quidem Regibus quicquam agere licere.
if not Kings themselves, yet Kings Privy Counsellors, he assures us by Another Character that he gives them elsewhere in the same Book, Sine auctoritate & consilio Magorum (Says he) constat ne Ipse quidem Regibus quicquam agere licere.
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And again, magnifying another high qualification in them, he gives their name of (NONLATINALPHABET) to denote not only a peculiar sort of Wise men thoroughly instructed in all the Liberal Arts and Sciences (as was said before) but who had likewise a grand Concern about Sacred Things:
And again, magnifying Another high qualification in them, he gives their name of () to denote not only a peculiar sort of Wise men thoroughly instructed in all the Liberal Arts and Sciences (as was said before) but who had likewise a grand Concern about Sacred Things:
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what the Gymnosophists were amongst the Indians, the Philosophers amongst the Graecians, the Wise men amongst the Latines, the Druids amongst the Gaules, the Chaldaeans amongst the Assyrians. Therefore does our Holy Evangelist entitle them with the name of NONLATINALPHABET upon these forementioned accounts of their eminent Birth, Office and Learning;
what the Gymnosophists were among the Indians, the Philosophers among the Greeks, the Wise men among the Latins, the Druids among the Gauls, the Chaldaeans among the Assyrians. Therefore does our Holy Evangelist entitle them with the name of upon these forementioned accounts of their eminent Birth, Office and Learning;
and from so deep an abyss of Impiety and Hell, the very Priests and Votaries of Devils, the Forerunners and First fruits of us (once such sinful Gentiles, or worse haply) to the adoration of his Son but just new born,
and from so deep an abyss of Impiety and Hell, the very Priests and Votaries of Devils, the Forerunners and First fruits of us (once such sinful Gentiles, or Worse haply) to the adoration of his Son but just new born,
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1. In that they were Gentiles, once a despised people, we are given to understand, that it is Gods free grace and mercy through them, to open unto us a door of life,
1. In that they were Gentiles, once a despised people, we Are given to understand, that it is God's free grace and mercy through them, to open unto us a door of life,
Our Saviours Question, How hard is it for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of heaven? And St. Paul 's Negation, That not many mighty, not many noble of this world are called, might well enough startle and confound the hopes of all the great men of the earth, were it not for this particular instance of Free-grace;
Our Saviors Question, How hard is it for a rich man to enter into the Kingdom of heaven? And Saint Paul is Negation, That not many mighty, not many noble of this world Are called, might well enough startle and confound the hope's of all the great men of the earth, were it not for this particular instance of Free grace;
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4. Nor does their great Learning, or mysterious knowledge, any way debar them from being Proselytes to Christianity. The Apostles Intimation of, not many wise, not many learned, might well again amaze and deaden the hearts of great Scholars, were it not, that these accomplisht Heroes of Learning, had a portion in the Star that leads to Christ;
4. Nor does their great Learning, or mysterious knowledge, any Way debar them from being Proselytes to Christianity. The Apostles Intimation of, not many wise, not many learned, might well again amaze and deaden the hearts of great Scholars, were it not, that these accomplished Heroes of Learning, had a portion in the Star that leads to christ;
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as a Star or Candle of the Lord, to lead man to the admiration of his Divinity. And these Renowned Princes, who had the full use and benefit of the same, employed it wholly to the right end.
as a Star or Candle of the Lord, to led man to the admiration of his Divinity. And these Renowned Princes, who had the full use and benefit of the same, employed it wholly to the right end.
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But such (alas!) is the Corruption of these last Ages of the World, That instead of coming unto God and Christ by Faith and Obedience (Things consentaneous with reason advanc't to the highest pitch) our gallant Atheists do (as much as in them lies) endeavour to depart from them, not only by their vicious Lives,
But such (alas!) is the Corruption of these last Ages of the World, That instead of coming unto God and christ by Faith and obedience (Things consentaneous with reason advanced to the highest pitch) our gallant Atheists do (as much as in them lies) endeavour to depart from them, not only by their vicious Lives,
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So that quite contrary to our New-quaking Luminaries, who do so highly magnifie and extend the Light within them, these dark Souls labour to put out all manner of Light both within and without them.
So that quite contrary to our New-quaking Luminaries, who do so highly magnify and extend the Light within them, these dark Souls labour to put out all manner of Light both within and without them.
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And however these new Anarchical Lights may account of Princes, and great Learned men, as Enemies unto him who was represented by this Star, nevertheless this Star shines unto them with as benign and efficacious Influences, as unto any;
And however these new Anarchical Lights may account of Princes, and great Learned men, as Enemies unto him who was represented by this Star, nevertheless this Star shines unto them with as benign and efficacious Influences, as unto any;
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It is for Kings, and Learned Sages onely to be led by Stars, and Tokens of stupendous Providence to the veneration of the Christian Faith ▪ Their hearts are larger,
It is for Kings, and Learned Sages only to be led by Stars, and Tokens of stupendous Providence to the veneration of the Christian Faith ▪ Their hearts Are larger,
and to advance the Kingdom of Christ Jesus by their exemplary Conformity, as much as to enlarge their earthly Empires by Conquest or victorious Policy.
and to advance the Kingdom of christ jesus by their exemplary Conformity, as much as to enlarge their earthly Empires by Conquest or victorious Policy.
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when Kings and Philosophers do submit unto Christian Laws, and when Christian Laws are supported and defended by the secular power and policy of such great men.
when Kings and Philosophers do submit unto Christian Laws, and when Christian Laws Are supported and defended by the secular power and policy of such great men.
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as being to pass through the Wildernesses of Arabia Deserta, and over the Rocks of Arabia Petraea. The uncouthness of the way, the danger of the narrow passages infamous for Robbers,
as being to pass through the Wildernesses of Arabia Deserta, and over the Rocks of Arabia Petraea. The uncouthness of the Way, the danger of the narrow passages infamous for Robbers,
and dreadful for Precipices, the Inconveniencies of the Journey, nor yet the uncertainty of it (because of the disappearance of the Star for a season) could no whit deter them from their design.
and dreadful for Precipices, the Inconveniences of the Journey, nor yet the uncertainty of it (Because of the disappearance of the Star for a season) could not whit deter them from their Design.
What a reproach now must all this be to the Christians of our dayes? How many trivial excuses shall scare many of us from adhering to that Faith we do profess? 'Tis a fashion now adayes to reason our selves out of our Devotion and Religion, and to object any thing to save our pains in the great Concerns about Christ and our Souls.
What a reproach now must all this be to the Christians of our days? How many trivial excuses shall scare many of us from adhering to that Faith we do profess? It's a fashion now adays to reason our selves out of our Devotion and Religion, and to Object any thing to save our pains in the great Concerns about christ and our Souls.
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or the Wind whiffling about our Cloaths, shall easily keep us off from coming to the House where Jesus delights to dwell, from coming out to worship him in his Sanctuary.
or the Wind whiffling about our Clothes, shall Easily keep us off from coming to the House where jesus delights to dwell, from coming out to worship him in his Sanctuary.
But what strikes deeper at the root of Religion, is, the vile reasonings of reprobate minds against Christian Obedience. Some of whom plead against the necessity of it:
But what strikes Deeper At the root of Religion, is, the vile reasonings of Reprobate minds against Christian obedience. some of whom plead against the necessity of it:
Because the Gospel, say they, is a messuage of peace and rest to their souls, and thence they think themselves wholly disingag'd from all kind of duty.
Because the Gospel, say they, is a message of peace and rest to their Souls, and thence they think themselves wholly disengaged from all kind of duty.
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A third sort there is who are much aggrieved at the bitterness of it, saying, These Laws are troublesom and unsavoury, full of sadness and melancholly, void of good fellowship and recreation,
A third sort there is who Are much aggrieved At the bitterness of it, saying, These Laws Are troublesome and unsavoury, full of sadness and melancholy, void of good fellowship and recreation,
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They had more generous Apprehensions, and more inflam'd Affections towards Christ and his Discipline. Ah! Let us make these Wise men our pattern and example;
They had more generous Apprehensions, and more inflamed Affections towards christ and his Discipline. Ah! Let us make these Wise men our pattern and Exampl;
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and more costly treasures by infinite degrees, than they brought with them; and instead of porishable, they returned with immortal Diadems in their Crowns.
and more costly treasures by infinite Degrees, than they brought with them; and instead of porishable, they returned with immortal Diadems in their Crowns.
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Come away then readily without pretences or delay, with the eye of a strong Faith, and the motions of a pure love, and pay your homage to the holy Jesus.
Come away then readily without pretences or Delay, with the eye of a strong Faith, and the motions of a pure love, and pay your homage to the holy jesus.
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as the sight of a Saviour. For it seems most reasonable, That his assuming of a Body to his Divine Nature, should challenge the humble obeysance of our whole bodies now;
as the sighed of a Saviour. For it seems most reasonable, That his assuming of a Body to his Divine Nature, should challenge the humble obeisance of our Whole bodies now;
The Soul then consecrates its self with all its Faculties unto God in all Acts of Devotion and Adoration at the same time with the Bodies humiliated prostration. The Apostles Exhortation therefore may haply refer to this, Therefore glorifie God in your bodies,
The Soul then consecrates its self with all its Faculties unto God in all Acts of Devotion and Adoration At the same time with the Bodies humiliated prostration. The Apostles Exhortation Therefore may haply refer to this, Therefore Glorify God in your bodies,
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to give him an outward respect, and inwardly to slight him, is to use Christ as the Souldiers did, worship him in a mockery, saying, Hail King, and smite him.
to give him an outward respect, and inwardly to slight him, is to use christ as the Soldiers did, worship him in a mockery, saying, Hail King, and smite him.
Now Lastly, After that we have considered how the Princely Magi have made a twelve days journey out of the East, of an 150 German, 600 of English miles, according to the Computation of Geometricians and Divines, posting it all along with Dromedaries laden with the costly wealth of the Countrey, to make Presents thereof to the King of Glory;
Now Lastly, After that we have considered how the Princely Magi have made a twelve days journey out of the East, of an 150 Germane, 600 of English miles, according to the Computation of Geometricians and Divines, posting it all along with Dromedaries laden with the costly wealth of the Country, to make Presents thereof to the King of Glory;
What shall we think of our selves, if we should come empty-handed, to congratulate the same our King? Open therefore the treasuries of your souls, dear Christians I beseech you,
What shall we think of our selves, if we should come empty-handed, to congratulate the same our King? Open Therefore the treasuries of your Souls, dear Christians I beseech you,
2. If we look upon the moral sense of this Allegory, we may affirm, That they are the several Christian vertues that are represented by these material Emblems, in the practice of which we make him most acceptable Presents.
2. If we look upon the moral sense of this Allegory, we may affirm, That they Are the several Christian Virtues that Are represented by these material Emblems, in the practice of which we make him most acceptable Presents.
For God looks upon us as offering him gold, if we patiently and constantly suffer for the Faith, which according to the Apostle St. Peter, is far more precious in his eye,
For God looks upon us as offering him gold, if we patiently and constantly suffer for the Faith, which according to the Apostle Saint Peter, is Far more precious in his eye,
3. Lastly, If we mortifie our Affections upon the earth (for myrrhe hath a quality in it of killing worms) if we keep our bodies chaste and pure (for myrrhe is a soveraign antidote against all impurities,
3. Lastly, If we mortify our Affections upon the earth (for myrrh hath a quality in it of killing worms) if we keep our bodies chaste and pure (for myrrh is a sovereign antidote against all Impurities,
and the insiliences of a wanton mind) and if in the bitterness of our Souls repent us of all our past sinful Extravagancies (for myrrhe is of a bitter nature) then do we truly present him with offerings of myrrhe. Thus the Persian Wise men did;
and the insiliences of a wanton mind) and if in the bitterness of our Souls Repent us of all our past sinful Extravagancies (for myrrh is of a bitter nature) then do we truly present him with offerings of myrrh. Thus the Persian Wise men did;
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