A sermon preach'd before the Right Honourable Sir Robert Clayton, Lord Mayor of London, at Guild-Hall-Chappel, December 7, 1679 by Thomas Mannyngham ...
THE Lot or Distribution of Afflictions, especially on the Good and Wise, which by many of the Heathens was urged as a grand argument against Providence, and which serv'd to countenance either their total denyal of it,
THE Lot or Distribution of Afflictions, especially on the Good and Wise, which by many of the heathens was urged as a grand argument against Providence, and which served to countenance either their total denial of it,
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since our Holy Gospel has assur'd us, that suffering for righteousness sake Martydom, & the scandal of the Cross, are promis'd and graciously appointed for the priviledge, triumph, and glory of the Heroical Christian. And albeit those severer blessings, which were so proper for the Infancy of the Church, requiring a most strict Discipline, and glorious Examples for a standing Rule and Encouragement to Posterity; and which were so remarkably verify'd in the immediate persecutions of the Apostles, and the succeeding Centuries of Martyrs: I say,
since our Holy Gospel has assured us, that suffering for righteousness sake Martyrdom, & the scandal of the Cross, Are promised and graciously appointed for the privilege, triumph, and glory of the Heroical Christian. And albeit those severer blessings, which were so proper for the Infancy of the Church, requiring a most strict Discipline, and glorious Examples for a standing Rule and Encouragement to Posterity; and which were so remarkably verified in the immediate persecutions of the Apostles, and the succeeding Centuries of Martyrs: I say,
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albeit those more rigorous mercies seem'd now to have expir'd in these our days, since our Emperours are become Christian, and our Kings nursing Fathers; since Credit and Security are the ornament and guard of Piety, Affluence and Honours the National rewards of Virtue and Religion; yet notwithstanding all these smooth Appearances, these hopes and flatteries of a new Paradise,
albeit those more rigorous Mercies seemed now to have expired in these our days, since our emperors Are become Christian, and our Kings nursing Father's; since Credit and Security Are the ornament and guard of Piety, Affluence and Honours the National rewards of Virtue and Religion; yet notwithstanding all these smooth Appearances, these hope's and flatteries of a new Paradise,
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and whosoever beareth not his Cross, cannot be a true Disciple, a true follower of Christ; but every person who has enter'd himself into the Covenant of sufferings, must with all humble resignation wait,
and whosoever bears not his Cross, cannot be a true Disciple, a true follower of christ; but every person who has entered himself into the Covenant of sufferings, must with all humble resignation wait,
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Now the reason and justice of this proceeding with wise and virtuous men, has continually tortur'd the enquiries of the Learned through all times and Sects, although with very different events; rendring the Epicurean careless and independant on Providence, the Stoic sententious and witty, but the true Christian wise and humble, who considers that the best man on earth is still a grievous sinner, and highly deserving the severest Temporal Afflictions; that according to the Law of rational nature, the wicked are in a great measure, without the immediate interposals of Omnipotence, permitted the freedom of their wills, a dominion over their ordinary actions, and consequently the molestation of others;
Now the reason and Justice of this proceeding with wise and virtuous men, has continually tortured the Enquiries of the Learned through all times and Sects, although with very different events; rendering the Epicurean careless and independent on Providence, the Stoic sententious and witty, but the true Christian wise and humble, who considers that the best man on earth is still a grievous sinner, and highly deserving the Severest Temporal Afflictions; that according to the Law of rational nature, the wicked Are in a great measure, without the immediate interposals of Omnipotence, permitted the freedom of their wills, a dominion over their ordinary actions, and consequently the molestation of Others;
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who, with a pious confidence, expects a mighty recompence in the next world, at the revelation of righteous judgment; who glories to follow the Captain of his Salvation, made perfect and consecrated through sufferings; and rejoyces with St. Paul to compleat and fill up in his flesh the remainders and relicks of Christs sufferings;
who, with a pious confidence, expects a mighty recompense in the next world, At the Revelation of righteous judgement; who Glories to follow the Captain of his Salvation, made perfect and consecrated through sufferings; and rejoices with Saint Paul to complete and fill up in his Flesh the remainders and Relics of Christ sufferings;
These are some of those most powerful considerations which may sufficiently evince the justice and the necessity of our Afflictions; but the Royal Psalmist in my Text presents us with a further argument, even of their goodness too, in relation to those manifold advantages which they bring to Religion. And that, I.
These Are Some of those most powerful considerations which may sufficiently evince the Justice and the necessity of our Afflictions; but the Royal Psalmist in my Text presents us with a further argument, even of their Goodness too, in Relation to those manifold advantages which they bring to Religion. And that, I.
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As they respect every Individual, and may be called Personal Afflictions. II. As they respect a Church and Nation, and may be called Publick Calamities.
As they respect every Individu, and may be called Personal Afflictions. II As they respect a Church and nation, and may be called Public Calamities.
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And first, as they respect every Individual, either the Wicked or the Righteous; being often found the best expedients to convert the one from their vicious Habits, to confirm and improve the other in their course of Piety.
And First, as they respect every Individu, either the Wicked or the Righteous; being often found the best expedients to convert the one from their vicious Habits, to confirm and improve the other in their course of Piety.
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It is reported of Pythagoras, that he could tame wild beasts with the Morality of his presence, and suspend their natural horror with a Precept: but the commanding part of the world has long since lost this secret of Restraint, even in more proportionate objects:
It is reported of Pythagoras, that he could tame wild beasts with the Morality of his presence, and suspend their natural horror with a Precept: but the commanding part of the world has long since lost this secret of Restraint, even in more proportionate objects:
his obstinacy has steel'd his very infirmities into Armour; so that the sharpest reproofs men dart at him, either reflect, or drop short, like a charm'd Bullet: if their Invectives are poignant and severe, he sets himself on his guard,
his obstinacy has steeled his very infirmities into Armour; so that the Sharpest reproofs men dart At him, either reflect, or drop short, like a charmed Bullet: if their Invectives Are poignant and severe, he sets himself on his guard,
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for he makes their indearments but forms to offer up his Lusts in, and gathers Courtship from their phrase: Grant that he hears them gladly for the newness of their Topic,
for he makes their endearments but forms to offer up his Lustiest in, and gathers Courtship from their phrase: Grant that he hears them gladly for the newness of their Topic,
than the quick moments of Lightning to a Traveller in the night, who before he advances one step forward, has lost his direction, and is onely more amazedly relaps'd into his former darkness.
than the quick moments of Lightning to a Traveller in the night, who before he advances one step forward, has lost his direction, and is only more amazedly relapsed into his former darkness.
And how can it naturally be otherwise, when the whole system of his thoughts and inclinations, the great bent of his nature stands contradictory to Religion? how can perswasions work on a petrify'd heart, or the foolishness of preaching reform the chayr of the scornful? his daily voluptuousness corrupts his natural Conscience, extinguishes his first Principles, and afterwards draws a thick vail before his understanding: for whilst his eyes are caress'd with the visits and interviews of beauty and dress, his Tympanum dancing to the soft Vibrations, the delicate Modulations of Harmony; whilst his Tongue and Palate, with their exquisite Membranes, lye bath'd in all the variety of Luxury, and a studied Epicurism;
And how can it naturally be otherwise, when the Whole system of his thoughts and inclinations, the great bent of his nature Stands contradictory to Religion? how can persuasions work on a petrified heart, or the foolishness of preaching reform the chair of the scornful? his daily voluptuousness corrupts his natural Conscience, extinguishes his First Principles, and afterwards draws a thick Vail before his understanding: for while his eyes Are caressed with the visits and interviews of beauty and dress, his Tympanum dancing to the soft Vibrations, the delicate Modulations of Harmony; while his Tongue and Palate, with their exquisite Membranes, lie bathed in all the variety of Luxury, and a studied Epicurism;
his Smell incens'd with the costly sacrifice of Odours, every return of breath bringing with it the Treasures of Arabia: whilst, I say, the busie Machin is in this Tumult of sensual Extasie, this Tyranny of delight,
his Smell incensed with the costly sacrifice of Odours, every return of breath bringing with it the Treasures of Arabia: while, I say, the busy Machin is in this Tumult of sensual Ecstasy, this Tyranny of delight,
Accordingly the Royal Psalmist having seriously considered the blasphemies of the wicked, intreats the Lord to take their Reformation into his own hands, to arise with sudden vengeance,
Accordingly the Royal Psalmist having seriously considered the Blasphemies of the wicked, intreats the Lord to take their Reformation into his own hands, to arise with sudden vengeance,
and maintain his own cause. An eminent example of this proceeding, we may read in the Conversion of St. Paul, Acts the 9th, who whilst he was raging throughout all the Synagogues of Damascus, and breathing out slaughters against the Disciples of our Lord, was struck down into an Apostle by a voice from Heaven;
and maintain his own cause. an eminent Exampl of this proceeding, we may read in the Conversion of Saint Paul, Acts the 9th, who while he was raging throughout all the Synagogues of Damascus, and breathing out slaughters against the Disciples of our Lord, was struck down into an Apostle by a voice from Heaven;
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and from his blindness, recover'd a most glorious Illumination: for as soon as his scales had dropt from his eyes, he from thenceforth beheld nothing but Christ and him crucified.
and from his blindness, recovered a most glorious Illumination: for as soon as his scales had dropped from his eyes, he from thenceforth beheld nothing but christ and him Crucified.
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And although we cannot promise that the Lord will appear to every desperate sinner in such a Miracle, such a mercy of consuming fire; yet doubtless before the full measure of their iniquity is compleated, there are never wanting to the wicked some such seasons of Afflictions, as may create in them serious thoughts, and furnish their mindes with a true judgment of things;
And although we cannot promise that the Lord will appear to every desperate sinner in such a Miracle, such a mercy of consuming fire; yet doubtless before the full measure of their iniquity is completed, there Are never wanting to the wicked Some such seasons of Afflictions, as may create in them serious thoughts, and furnish their minds with a true judgement of things;
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How conspicuous was this method in the Antient Excommunications? when the sinners were not onely excluded from the Service and Sacraments of the Church,
How conspicuous was this method in the Ancient Excommunications? when the Sinners were not only excluded from the Service and Sacraments of the Church,
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These were the severities that reduced them to a captivity of thought, to poverty of spirit, to their whole years of prostration, and to the humbling of themselves through all the degrees of Penance.
These were the severities that reduced them to a captivity of Thought, to poverty of Spirit, to their Whole Years of prostration, and to the humbling of themselves through all the Degrees of Penance.
The obstinate and the sensual must have the Law again delivered to them in darkness, Clouds, and dreadful Thunders; and when the terrours of the Lord shall have open'd their ears to discipline, and set scourges over their hearts,
The obstinate and the sensual must have the Law again Delivered to them in darkness, Clouds, and dreadful Thunders; and when the terrors of the Lord shall have opened their ears to discipline, and Set scourges over their hearts,
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That rich man in the Gospel (as we may probably guess from his delicious fare ) scarce ever once thought of Heaven, till he lifted up his eyes in Hell; whereas if he had received but a small portion of those Torments in his life-time, he might from hence have taken a surer prospect of Heaven, through a less Chasm, and have discovered a place for himself in Abraham 's bosome.
That rich man in the Gospel (as we may probably guess from his delicious fare) scarce ever once Thought of Heaven, till he lifted up his eyes in Hell; whereas if he had received but a small portion of those Torments in his lifetime, he might from hence have taken a Surer prospect of Heaven, through a less Chasm, and have discovered a place for himself in Abraham is bosom.
Those young Courtiers of Abdera, who went distracted from the Andromeda of Euripides, ran raving about the Town a whole Summer, Acting and Reciting in every corner of the Streets, with all the Rabies of the Play in their Mouths;
Those young Courtiers of Abdera, who went distracted from the andromeda of Euripides, ran raving about the Town a Whole Summer, Acting and Reciting in every corner of the Streets, with all the Rabies of the Play in their Mouths;
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and notwithstanding there were made several applications for their Recovery, continued on their frantick Jollity, till the following Winter starved their Poetick Fury,
and notwithstanding there were made several applications for their Recovery, continued on their frantic Jollity, till the following Winter starved their Poetic Fury,
and one risen from the dead, would never have reclaimed: for, when having danced through various Scenes of false pleasure and wild mirth, and drawing near to the last Act of that Fable, Life, his distemper shall then chance to give him the dreaded leisure of his thoughts, how quickly will the Gospel break in upon his retirement, and set all its contempts, all its prophanations in array before him? how will his Objections against Revelation then melt away,
and one risen from the dead, would never have reclaimed: for, when having danced through various Scenes of false pleasure and wild mirth, and drawing near to the last Act of that Fable, Life, his distemper shall then chance to give him the dreaded leisure of his thoughts, how quickly will the Gospel break in upon his retirement, and Set all its contempts, all its profanations in array before him? how will his Objections against Revelation then melt away,
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like the Canaanites before Joshua; and his strong Scepticism grow sickly, and consume at the victorious appearance of Truth? how different will his Imaginations then be, from those that were the entertainment of his hotter bravery, when his Constitution was Athletick,
like the Canaanites before joshua; and his strong Scepticism grow sickly, and consume At the victorious appearance of Truth? how different will his Imaginations then be, from those that were the entertainment of his hotter bravery, when his Constitution was Athletic,
now will his long-abused Soul grow Conscious of her own Immortality, and his Minde swell with inward Argument; 'twill be no more accounted a vapour in the nostrils, or a little spark in the moving of the heart,
now will his long-abused Soul grow Conscious of her own Immortality, and his Mind swell with inward Argument; it'll be no more accounted a vapour in the nostrils, or a little spark in the moving of the heart,
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Wherefore if now, even in this his day, he will be obedient to the vast infusions of his Conversion; if he will constantly maintain the great Current of Repentance in its proper Channel,
Wherefore if now, even in this his day, he will be obedient to the vast infusions of his Conversion; if he will constantly maintain the great Current of Repentance in its proper Channel,
and with all Sincerity live up to the vows of his Sickness; then may he be advanced into my Second part, and be numbred amongst the Righteous, where Afflictions are sure to meet him again,
and with all Sincerity live up to the vows of his Sickness; then may he be advanced into my Second part, and be numbered among the Righteous, where Afflictions Are sure to meet him again,
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He that considers the slow progress of vertuous Habits, the constant sollicitations of the World without him, the continual Treacheries of his own Nature within, the secret and malicious Insinuations of all the Powers of Darkness that are round him, will readily confess, That the frequent and most instant admonishments of Afflictions, are the best Guards against Vice, the surest strong Hold against all those Enemies; and that the Implacable Canaanite onely defends that Land, that Israel against which he fights.
He that considers the slow progress of virtuous Habits, the constant solicitations of the World without him, the continual Treacheries of his own Nature within, the secret and malicious Insinuations of all the Powers of Darkness that Are round him, will readily confess, That the frequent and most instant admonishments of Afflictions, Are the best Guards against Vice, the Surest strong Hold against all those Enemies; and that the Implacable Canaanite only defends that Land, that Israel against which he fights.
We finde this state of Afflictions almost every where recommended by the wiser Heathens; which did not proceed from any Ost•ntation of Wit, was not any Rant of Stoicism,
We find this state of Afflictions almost every where recommended by the Wiser heathens; which did not proceed from any Ost•ntation of Wit, was not any Rant of Stoicism,
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but the result and sobriety of their best Reasoning, and sprang from the cooler Counsels of Philosophy; consonant to which, we meet with a most remarkable sentence of Plato, in his Republicks, whereby you would imagine that he prophetically describ'd one of our Primitive Martyrs; where he says, That to approve a man heartily righteous, he must be scourged, tortured, bound, have both his eyes burnt out;
but the result and sobriety of their best Reasoning, and sprang from the cooler Counsels of Philosophy; consonant to which, we meet with a most remarkable sentence of Plato, in his Republics, whereby you would imagine that he prophetically described one of our Primitive Martyrs; where he Says, That to approve a man heartily righteous, he must be scourged, tortured, bound, have both his eyes burned out;
and in the close, having suffered all evils, must be Impal'd or Crucify'd. Neither was it the affectation of the retir'd, or a melancholy Doctrine of the Cell,
and in the close, having suffered all evils, must be Impaled or crucified. Neither was it the affectation of the retired, or a melancholy Doctrine of the Cell,
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Let one instance out of many suffice, and that of Philip King of Macedon, concerning whom prophane History relates, that having in one day succeeded in three notable Enterprizes, he immediately implored the gods, that they would be so propitious to him,
Let one instance out of many suffice, and that of Philip King of Macedon, Concerning whom profane History relates, that having in one day succeeded in three notable Enterprises, he immediately implored the God's, that they would be so propitious to him,
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for after they had been broken and dissipated here on earth by vast Calamities, then were they plac'd amongst the Stars, and their mighty Souls collected into their assigned Orbs.
for After they had been broken and dissipated Here on earth by vast Calamities, then were they placed among the Stars, and their mighty Souls collected into their assigned Orbs.
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Even the antient Patriarchs (who lived before the Mosaic Institution ) passed away their numerous years in Sorrows and Pilgrimages, mighty Judgments, or Egyptian slavery: And about those times (according to the best conjectures of Ecclesiastical Authors) the righteous Job flourished in his Afflictions, and now remains to all posterity, a stupendious example of Religion and Misery.
Even the ancient Patriarchs (who lived before the Mosaic Institution) passed away their numerous Years in Sorrows and Pilgrimages, mighty Judgments, or Egyptian slavery: And about those times (according to the best Conjectures of Ecclesiastical Authors) the righteous Job flourished in his Afflictions, and now remains to all posterity, a stupendious Exampl of Religion and Misery.
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Besides, in the establish'd oeconomy of the Jewish State (which though it was so full and pregnant of the happiness of this world, that its Political appearance was nothing but the promise of a Temporal prosperity) yet we finde, that for the most part, amongst the Jews, their stoutest Leaders, best Kings, and noblest Prophets, were most severely treated with Crosses and sharp Afflictions.
Beside, in the established economy of the Jewish State (which though it was so full and pregnant of the happiness of this world, that its Political appearance was nothing but the promise of a Temporal Prosperity) yet we find, that for the most part, among the jews, their Stoutest Leaders, best Kings, and Noblest prophets, were most severely treated with Crosses and sharp Afflictions.
And now, if the constancy, equanimity, and all the gallant worth of the best of Heathens, the Righteousness of the antient Patrianchs, the Valour, Wisdom,
And now, if the constancy, equanimity, and all the gallant worth of the best of heathens, the Righteousness of the ancient Patrianchs, the Valour, Wisdom,
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and Integnity of the more renowned Jews, have been signaliz'd and made conspicuous chiefly by their Afflictions; surely Christianity, which has plac'd Immortality in a fuller light, which has set an exceeding glory before us to animate our Contentions in Tribulation, and has given us an infallible assurance of that astonishment of Men and Angels, a Crucify'd God; ought in all natural reason to be productive of infinitely more illustrious effects under its severer dispensation: especially if we consider, that there is not a Vertue proposed to our Imitation through the whole life of our Saviour, which has not for its appendage that which the Animal man calls Misery, although it proves, in the event, the onely winging of the Soul, the highest exaltation of Humane Nature, which had never been honoured with the Ʋnion of God, if it had not been in order to suffer.
and Integnity of the more renowned jews, have been signalized and made conspicuous chiefly by their Afflictions; surely Christianity, which has placed Immortality in a fuller Light, which has Set an exceeding glory before us to animate our Contentions in Tribulation, and has given us an infallible assurance of that astonishment of Men and Angels, a crucified God; ought in all natural reason to be productive of infinitely more illustrious effects under its severer Dispensation: especially if we Consider, that there is not a Virtue proposed to our Imitation through the Whole life of our Saviour, which has not for its appendage that which the Animal man calls Misery, although it Proves, in the event, the only winging of the Soul, the highest exaltation of Humane Nature, which had never been honoured with the Ʋnion of God, if it had not been in order to suffer.
if from its Principles and Duties we should endeavour to perswade men that in Afflictions and Miseries there was a sensitive pleasure, or at least no sensitive regret: Virtue and Piety do not charm us into to a Lethargy, do not lessen the Impressions of Pain, or the resentments of Injuries; they rather improve them, by how much the Temperate and the Intellectual are more keen and exquisite in all their perceptions, than the Sensual and Debauched;
if from its Principles and Duties we should endeavour to persuade men that in Afflictions and Misery's there was a sensitive pleasure, or At least not sensitive regret: Virtue and Piety do not charm us into to a Lethargy, do not lessen the Impressions of Pain, or the resentments of Injuries; they rather improve them, by how much the Temperate and the Intellectual Are more keen and exquisite in all their perceptions, than the Sensual and Debauched;
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This was St. Paul 's comfort in the midst of his perils, fightings, and jeopardies; of his stripes, prisons, and deaths: when he was a Gladiator in the world in the behalf of Christ, a Spectacle and Theatre to Men and Angels.
This was Saint Paul is Comfort in the midst of his perils, fightings, and Jeopardies; of his stripes, prisons, and death's: when he was a Gladiator in the world in the behalf of christ, a Spectacle and Theatre to Men and Angels.
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Even our blessed Saviour himself was pleased to sustain his suffering Humanity with the full Confidence and Expectation of the Joy that was set before him;
Even our blessed Saviour himself was pleased to sustain his suffering Humanity with the full Confidence and Expectation of the Joy that was Set before him;
Afflictions are those storms that six and strengthen our Principles, that settle and secure our Fundamentals; that fasten our Religion, not on the complacencies of our Affections, and the accidental deliciousness of a prosperous Piety; but on strong reason, deep consideration,
Afflictions Are those storms that six and strengthen our Principles, that settle and secure our Fundamentals; that fasten our Religion, not on the Complacencies of our Affections, and the accidental deliciousness of a prosperous Piety; but on strong reason, deep consideration,
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These are the two-edged swords, the sharpnesses that perform the true Anatomy of the Christian, that pierce and search to the dividing of Soul and Spirit, joynts and marrow, to the distinguishing of true Piety from Temper: for many specious acts and offices in Religion, do oftentimes proceed more from Constitution than Precept; are not so much the certain effects of a steady Judgment, as the casual efforts of a warm Imagination;
These Are the two-edged swords, the sharpnesses that perform the true Anatomy of the Christian, that pierce and search to the dividing of Soul and Spirit, Joints and marrow, to the distinguishing of true Piety from Temper: for many specious acts and Offices in Religion, do oftentimes proceed more from Constitution than Precept; Are not so much the certain effects of a steady Judgement, as the casual efforts of a warm Imagination;
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as 'tis not strength and choice, but weakness and infirmity, that makes a man Run, when he should onely Walk; whereas, Afflictions prove us invincibly constant to our Resolutions, and pursuit makes us cling to the Horns of the Altar.
as it's not strength and choice, but weakness and infirmity, that makes a man Run, when he should only Walk; whereas, Afflictions prove us invincibly constant to our Resolutions, and pursuit makes us cling to the Horns of the Altar.
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they pluck off its disguise, and make it quit the Stage; they shake and ruffle the man till they discover a true vital Devotion from a Mechanick Impulse; which,
they pluck off its disguise, and make it quit the Stage; they shake and ruffle the man till they discover a true vital Devotion from a Mechanic Impulse; which,
They give us an exquisite relish of those Mercies we do enjoy, wean our Affections from the world, prevent our surfeits of prosperity, and place us in a continual preparation for Death: Moreover, what is not so commonly insisted on, they enlarge our Experience, and give our Faculties a miraculous perfection. For, do but consider what excellent discourses are owing to the Pen of the Mourners? what Divine Consolations we have receiv'd from the damps and horrours of a Prison? what constancy and peace of mind from the incirclings of War? What Meditations from a Martyr'd King? as if mens understandings had been purg'd and refin'd by their Afflictions, and their faculties vex'd into Intuition: as 'tis observed of the more Intellectual Platonists, that by long fastings, and frequent severities, they raised themselves unto those Abstractions and pure Idea's, which some men are not yet Dieted to apprehend:
They give us an exquisite relish of those mercies we do enjoy, wean our Affections from the world, prevent our Surfeits of Prosperity, and place us in a continual preparation for Death: Moreover, what is not so commonly insisted on, they enlarge our Experience, and give our Faculties a miraculous perfection. For, do but Consider what excellent discourses Are owing to the Pen of the Mourners? what Divine Consolations we have received from the damps and horrors of a Prison? what constancy and peace of mind from the incirclings of War? What Meditations from a Martyred King? as if men's understandings had been purged and refined by their Afflictions, and their faculties vexed into Intuition: as it's observed of the more Intellectual Platonists, that by long Fastings, and frequent severities, they raised themselves unto those Abstractions and pure Idea's, which Some men Are not yet Dieted to apprehend:
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whereby they did in a manner resemble those Prophets of old, who receiv'd their Inspirations, and delivered their Oracles in Tortures. Nay, perhaps the renowned wisdom of ancient men is not so much extracted from long observations and repeated experiences, as from the Lectures of their Gout and Stone, as from those infirmities which accompany their Age.
whereby they did in a manner resemble those prophets of old, who received their Inspirations, and Delivered their Oracles in Tortures. Nay, perhaps the renowned Wisdom of ancient men is not so much extracted from long observations and repeated experiences, as from the Lectures of their Gout and Stone, as from those infirmities which accompany their Age.
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Neither do they give a perfection onely to mens natural powers, but more especially an extraordinary advancement and supereminency to their Spiritual Capacities; making them partakers of Gods Holiness. It must be confess'd, that many have very resolutely undergone great and formidable Torments, even death it self, in its most cruel and vilest cumstances, out of false and unworthy Principles; such as Phanatick Obstinacy, National Custom, Secular Gallantry, meer Sullenness and Stupidity, blind and misguided Zeal, and what is more remarkable,
Neither do they give a perfection only to men's natural Powers, but more especially an extraordinary advancement and supereminency to their Spiritual Capacities; making them partakers of God's Holiness. It must be confessed, that many have very resolutely undergone great and formidable Torments, even death it self, in its most cruel and Vilest cumstances, out of false and unworthy Principles; such as Fanatic Obstinacy, National Custom, Secular Gallantry, mere Sullenness and Stupidity, blind and misguided Zeal, and what is more remarkable,
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even Jesuitical policy: but these spurious and equivocal examples are so palpably discerned from those excellent persons who have suffer'd in the behalf of the Religion of the Gospel, with true Christian meekness and patience, that they need not in the least disturb our present argument: for had these false Martyrs that general conspiration of Graces, which Afflictions always produce in the truly Righteous? did they manifest in their demeanour and conversation that fruit of the Spirit summ'd up Gal. 5.22.
even Jesuitical policy: but these spurious and equivocal Examples Are so palpably discerned from those excellent Persons who have suffered in the behalf of the Religion of the Gospel, with true Christian meekness and patience, that they need not in the least disturb our present argument: for had these false Martyrs that general conspiration of Graces, which Afflictions always produce in the truly Righteous? did they manifest in their demeanour and Conversation that fruit of the Spirit summed up Gal. 5.22.
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viz. love, joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, and temperance? if so, they could never have been enemies to Civil Government; they could never have scornfully rejected the humble addresses of holy Confessours,
viz. love, joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, Goodness, faith, meekness, and temperance? if so, they could never have been enemies to Civil Government; they could never have scornfully rejected the humble Addresses of holy Confessors,
and good men; have wilfully stifled the Evidences and convictions of Truth; have design'd and acted barbarities, contrary to all natural justice, moral goodness, and heathenish civility. No, the afflicted righteous man has no such concerns upon earth; he leads a life hid with Christ in God, dwells in the Contemplations of Heaven, is exercis'd in pious Raptures, and incompass'd with the Ministry of Angels: his earnest Devotions gather vigour and accent from the acuteness of his pains, from the overwhelmings of an horrible dread; whilst he considers and knows, that all his persecutions will arise into the enlargements of future happiness, and his fiery tryals be purify'd into a glory round his head.
and good men; have wilfully stifled the Evidences and convictions of Truth; have designed and acted barbarities, contrary to all natural Justice, moral Goodness, and Heathenish civility. No, the afflicted righteous man has not such concerns upon earth; he leads a life hid with christ in God, dwells in the Contemplations of Heaven, is exercised in pious Raptures, and encompassed with the Ministry of Angels: his earnest Devotions gather vigour and accent from the acuteness of his pains, from the overwhelmings of an horrible dread; while he considers and knows, that all his persecutions will arise into the enlargements of future happiness, and his fiery trials be purified into a glory round his head.
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Where would have been the Annals of the Heroick? Where would have been victories of Faith mention'd Hebrews the 11, if it had not been for Swords, Tyrannies, wild beasts, for the numerous inventions of persecuting malice? Hence have proceeded all those Miracles of patience, courage, humility, resignation;
Where would have been the Annals of the Heroic? Where would have been victories of Faith mentioned Hebrews the 11, if it had not been for Swords, Tyrannies, wild beasts, for the numerous Inventions of persecuting malice? Hence have proceeded all those Miracles of patience, courage, humility, resignation;
that inspired complacency under Torments, suitable to what St. Chrysostome Rhetorically writes of the three Children in the Furnace, NONLATINALPHABET, that is, they expatiated there with as gay a freedom and relaxation of mind,
that inspired complacency under Torments, suitable to what Saint Chrysostom Rhetorically writes of the three Children in the Furnace,, that is, they expatiated there with as gay a freedom and relaxation of mind,
How dead and vapid are all the Blandishments of the world to him, who is exercis'd in spiritual Agonies, in the Olympies of the Soul? who when Persecution ceases, can yet obtain for himself a Crown of Martyrdom by strict Abstinencies, holy Discipline, and the rigours of Mortification? That even by these methods can compleatly conquer and make innocent that Triumvirate of afflictions, Poverty, Disgrace, and Sickness, which the world hath dress'd in such frightful representations.
How dead and vapid Are all the Blandishments of the world to him, who is exercised in spiritual Agonies, in the Olympies of the Soul? who when Persecution ceases, can yet obtain for himself a Crown of Martyrdom by strict Abstinences, holy Discipline, and the rigours of Mortification? That even by these methods can completely conquer and make innocent that Triumvirate of afflictions, Poverty, Disgrace, and Sickness, which the world hath dressed in such frightful representations.
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For what rellish can there be in the abundance of Riches to one, who has tasted the recollections of a Religious Poverty! who can be sedate and divinely busie amidst the peevishness of Want,
For what relish can there be in the abundance of Riches to one, who has tasted the recollections of a Religious Poverty! who can be sedate and divinely busy amid the peevishness of Want,
before ever any particular Providence had pointed out the Necessity, or laid the Constraint? A state so commendable, that 'tis made one of the most solemn Vows of those who at any time engage themselves in a Religious Order; that it was always recommended by men who were best able to give a true judgment of things,
before ever any particular Providence had pointed out the Necessity, or laid the Constraint? A state so commendable, that it's made one of the most solemn Vows of those who At any time engage themselves in a Religious Order; that it was always recommended by men who were best able to give a true judgement of things,
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But above all, that 'tis sanctifi'd and made Evangelical, by the History and Example of our Blessed Saviour, who has not spoken a much harsher thing in his whole Gospel, than what relates to a confidence in riches and great abundance;
But above all, that it's sanctified and made Evangelical, by the History and Exampl of our Blessed Saviour, who has not spoken a much harsher thing in his Whole Gospel, than what relates to a confidence in riches and great abundance;
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as it were, not receiving them within the ordinary extensions of his love and tenderness, but referring them to the omnipotence, and last reach of his mercy.
as it were, not receiving them within the ordinary extensions of his love and tenderness, but referring them to the omnipotence, and last reach of his mercy.
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how apt to raise Tumours in the imaginations of the best of men, and to tincture their reflexions with pride and vain complacency? who calls to mind, that there is not usually a more precarious thing on earth,
how apt to raise Tumours in the Imaginations of the best of men, and to tincture their reflexions with pride and vain complacency? who calls to mind, that there is not usually a more precarious thing on earth,
than he who has been nursed up with flatteries and applauses, who has liv'd upon publick breath, and been the Idol of the admiring multitude; that such an one is the Creature of every Hyperbole; that he may be transform'd and fashion'd by every modish Epithite, and complemented into all the absurdities of opinion and action: who sadly reflects how the voluptuous and plausible, with Herod in the Acts, are often panegyric'd to Death and Hell, by the officious Blasphemies of the Rabble: who considers that an abused Reputation does often break more illustriously through a cloud of Infamy; and let whatever happen,
than he who has been nursed up with flatteries and applauses, who has lived upon public breath, and been the Idol of the admiring multitude; that such an one is the Creature of every Hyperbole; that he may be transformed and fashioned by every modish Epithet, and Complemented into all the absurdities of opinion and actium: who sadly reflects how the voluptuous and plausible, with Herod in the Acts, Are often panegyriced to Death and Hell, by the officious Blasphemies of the Rabble: who considers that an abused Reputation does often break more illustriously through a cloud of Infamy; and let whatever happen,
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that it was the chiefest of all Temporal Promises in the Old Testament, without which no other could have been enjoyed. But yet if we consider what nourishment and fewel it often administers to the grossest sensualities, what dangerous temptations lie in the bosome of the healthful continually pressing for admission,
that it was the chiefest of all Temporal Promises in the Old Testament, without which no other could have been enjoyed. But yet if we Consider what nourishment and fuel it often administers to the Grossest Sensualities, what dangerous temptations lie in the bosom of the healthful continually pressing for admission,
and how greedily they are many times entertained by those who are strong to undergo the labours of iniquity; we shall be apt to acknowledge that sickness is a proper season for the exercise and acquisition of many graces, or at least that 'tis a happy impotence, in respect of the most wasting vices we are subject to;
and how greedily they Are many times entertained by those who Are strong to undergo the labours of iniquity; we shall be apt to acknowledge that sickness is a proper season for the exercise and acquisition of many graces, or At least that it's a happy impotence, in respect of the most wasting vices we Are Subject to;
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that a firm constitution of mind is often wrought from the diseases of the Body, and the Soul grows more active and refin'd, by still working out its own separation; that the mortal part of us, by a continual succession of little dissolutions, may be better prepar'd to drop with ease,
that a firm constitution of mind is often wrought from the diseases of the Body, and the Soul grows more active and refined, by still working out its own separation; that the Mortal part of us, by a continual succession of little dissolutions, may be better prepared to drop with ease,
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and just maturity, into that final one of death; which, when it meets a man in the full Tyde of his prosperity, and the luxury of his Temper, with what confusions it assaults his Triumphant minde, with what violence it rends his strong ligaments of Life? No one will more readily part with his earthly Tabernacle, than he that by indispositions and long sicknesses, has been taught the trouble of keeping it Tenantable; he will rejoyce to sleep with his Fathers, to be eased of the ruines of Adam, the dishonours of Original sin, and to resigne up his dust and ashes for Immortality, and a glorious form.
and just maturity, into that final one of death; which, when it meets a man in the full Tide of his Prosperity, and the luxury of his Temper, with what confusions it assaults his Triumphant mind, with what violence it rends his strong ligaments of Life? No one will more readily part with his earthly Tabernacle, than he that by indispositions and long Sicknesses, has been taught the trouble of keeping it Tenantable; he will rejoice to sleep with his Father's, to be eased of the ruins of Adam, the dishonours of Original since, and to resign up his dust and Ashes for Immortality, and a glorious from.
Thus we have seen by what gracious arts, strengths, and assistances, Afflictions may not onely be patiently born by the Religious, but also improv'd into real comforts, and heightned into all natural and spiritual advantages; and this may be done, not onely by persons in their private concerns, but also in their relative and publick capacities, and as they constitute a Church or Nation: which brings me to my second General, viz.
Thus we have seen by what gracious arts, strengths, and assistances, Afflictions may not only be patiently born by the Religious, but also improved into real comforts, and heightened into all natural and spiritual advantages; and this may be done, not only by Persons in their private concerns, but also in their relative and public capacities, and as they constitute a Church or nation: which brings me to my second General, viz.
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Those narrow Reasoners, who, measuring Divine Providence by the modes of humane inspection, thought it trivial and perplexing for it to direct every Ordinary Agent, and to mingle its concourse with particulars; have notwithstanding been very generous and liberal, in allowing a constant and ample superintendency over Churches and Nations: and that there might be nothing wanting to the magnificence of Providence in their Government, have super-added peculiar Stars and Angels for subordinate ministrations.
Those narrow Reasoners, who, measuring Divine Providence by the modes of humane inspection, Thought it trivial and perplexing for it to Direct every Ordinary Agent, and to mingle its concourse with particulars; have notwithstanding been very generous and liberal, in allowing a constant and ample superintendency over Churches and nations: and that there might be nothing wanting to the magnificence of Providence in their Government, have superadded peculiar Stars and Angels for subordinate ministrations.
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What appropriate Schemes of Government God Almighty is pleas'd to establish to himself in his presiding over those greater Bodies, is no mans Province to inquire,
What Appropriate Schemes of Government God Almighty is pleased to establish to himself in his presiding over those greater Bodies, is no men Province to inquire,
but however, this we may be certain of, and it has been confirm'd by the experience of all Ages, that ordinarily Nations may expect their prosperous or their adverse seasons, according as their Virtues or their Vices shall exceed.
but however, this we may be certain of, and it has been confirmed by the experience of all Ages, that ordinarily nations may expect their prosperous or their adverse seasons, according as their Virtues or their Vices shall exceed.
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And although prosperity be the Vote of Nature, the thirst and instinct of the Soul, insomuch that Isaiah brings in the Jews begging a kind cousenage from their Prophets, Speak unto us smooth things, prophesie deceits;
And although Prosperity be the Vote of Nature, the thirst and instinct of the Soul, insomuch that Isaiah brings in the jews begging a kind cozenage from their prophets, Speak unto us smooth things, prophesy Deceits;
although this be the universal voice of Mankind, and that with the Israelites, we lust for a Canaan in the very wilderness, are calling for new luxuries of mercy, whilst we are despising the former;
although this be the universal voice of Mankind, and that with the Israelites, we lust for a Canaan in the very Wilderness, Are calling for new luxuries of mercy, while we Are despising the former;
we publish Fasts by Law, transfer our Policies into Piety, and make the depths of Empire serve Religion: even so the appearance of a Comet improves Astronomy, better than all the ordinary motions of the Stars and Planets; and the Sun invites more eyes towards Heaven by sits Eclipse, than by its constant splendour.
we publish Fasts by Law, transfer our Policies into Piety, and make the depths of Empire serve Religion: even so the appearance of a Cometam improves Astronomy, better than all the ordinary motions of the Stars and Planets; and the Sun invites more eyes towards Heaven by sits Eclipse, than by its constant splendour.
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The certain vicissitude of sins and judgments, mercies and provocations, hath in a manner render'd all Church-History but Repetition and Tautology: Thus God dealt with the ancient Jews, thus with the first Christians, and so he continues to deal with us: and although we cannot without detestation and amazement recal those numerous ingratitudes of Israel, committed within the space of forty or fifty years; yet if we reflect on our own Chronicle, within near the same circuit of time, we shall be apt to conclude the Jews but puny sinners, as the horrour of Regicide seems to lessen the guilt of Murder: for did not the memories and obligations of our Fathers, immediately cool upon almost as great a deliverance, as the Miracle of the Read-sea? and did not we within a while after murmur and rebel against Moses and Aaron, the best Monarchy, and the best Hierarchy? and in that Interregnum, when our King was but gone into the midst of the Cloud, to learn Afflictions, and to commune with the Lord; did not some of us set up a Calf in Horeb, and worship that molten Image? when we were brought into the promised Country, NONLATINALPHABET, with the secret, but most powerful hand of Providence, did we not run after the Counsels of Balac, and commit Whoredom with the Daughters of Moah? and has not the Lord visited for this too, with as great a Plague? and, having now a while enjoyed the lots and divisions of our Inheritance, are not some amongst us erecting Altars on high places, serving Baal and Ashtaroth, and returning to the antient Idolatry of the Land? These are our parallel provocations with Israel, and shall not our judgments be greater? even in this our Land, our sins are become our severest Executioners; for do not Heresie and Schism, prophaneness and hypocrisle, like the four winds in the description of a Tempest, blow all together!
The certain vicissitude of Sins and Judgments, Mercies and provocations, hath in a manner rendered all Church history but Repetition and Tautology: Thus God dealt with the ancient jews, thus with the First Christians, and so he continues to deal with us: and although we cannot without detestation and amazement Recall those numerous ingratitudes of Israel, committed within the Molle of forty or fifty Years; yet if we reflect on our own Chronicle, within near the same circuit of time, we shall be apt to conclude the jews but puny Sinners, as the horror of Regicide seems to lessen the guilt of Murder: for did not the memories and obligations of our Father's, immediately cool upon almost as great a deliverance, as the Miracle of the Red sea? and did not we within a while After murmur and rebel against Moses and Aaron, the best Monarchy, and the best Hierarchy? and in that Interregnum, when our King was but gone into the midst of the Cloud, to Learn Afflictions, and to commune with the Lord; did not Some of us Set up a Calf in Horeb, and worship that melted Image? when we were brought into the promised Country,, with the secret, but most powerful hand of Providence, did we not run After the Counsels of Balaam, and commit Whoredom with the Daughters of Moah? and has not the Lord visited for this too, with as great a Plague? and, having now a while enjoyed the lots and divisions of our Inheritance, Are not Some among us erecting Altars on high places, serving Baal and Ashtaroth, and returning to the ancient Idolatry of the Land? These Are our parallel provocations with Israel, and shall not our Judgments be greater? even in this our Land, our Sins Are become our Severest Executioners; for do not Heresy and Schism, profaneness and hypocrisle, like the four winds in the description of a Tempest, blow all together!
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insomuch, much, that we may paint our Church, like the Planetary figure, with a dart in every limb; for its whole body now appears onely a larger constellation of Wounds.
insomuch, much, that we may paint our Church, like the Planetary figure, with a dart in every limb; for its Whole body now appears only a larger constellation of Wounds.
Wherefore now is the proper and advantageous season, nobly to maintain the Purity of our Faith, and to defend the wisdom of our Discipline; to lay aside all peevish Principles, and sullen Separations; to conspire in nothing but mutual Charity and publick Love; to heighten our Devotions by numbers and ardency; to encompass and besiege the mercy-seat of Heaven with importunity and holy violence.
Wherefore now is the proper and advantageous season, nobly to maintain the Purity of our Faith, and to defend the Wisdom of our Discipline; to lay aside all peevish Principles, and sullen Separations; to conspire in nothing but mutual Charity and public Love; to heighten our Devotions by numbers and ardency; to encompass and besiege the mercy-seat of Heaven with importunity and holy violence.
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and with their solid Ancestors, grow wife and severe in their Conversation, faithful and friendly in their ordinary dealings, generous and brave in their publick Actions, manly and solemn in their Religious Duties. Let our Magistrates assume an Heroical spirit, and dare to be righteous where the wicked prosper; let them with wisdom, integrity, and zeal, execute Justice and Judgment in this our Land,
and with their solid Ancestors, grow wife and severe in their Conversation, faithful and friendly in their ordinary dealings, generous and brave in their public Actions, manly and solemn in their Religious Duties. Let our Magistrates assume an Heroical Spirit, and Dare to be righteous where the wicked prosper; let them with Wisdom, integrity, and zeal, execute justice and Judgement in this our Land,
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and then the Lord will withdraw his: for who can tell but that the courageous and fervent Magistrate, like Phinehas amongst the Jews, may even now remove a National Calamity with his Javelin, with his speedy and zealous execution? Let our Princes be cloathed with Sackcloth, and for a while make their Thrones in the dust: Let our Priests be deck'd with Righteousness, Courage, and the preparations of Martyrdon; let them rejoyce to be made an Anathema for our Church, and to bless our Nation through the midst of their flames.
and then the Lord will withdraw his: for who can tell but that the courageous and fervent Magistrate, like Phinehas among the jews, may even now remove a National Calamity with his Javelin, with his speedy and zealous execution? Let our Princes be clothed with sackcloth, and for a while make their Thrones in the dust: Let our Priests be decked with Righteousness, Courage, and the preparations of Martyrdon; let them rejoice to be made an Anathema for our Church, and to bless our nation through the midst of their flames.
1. Let the bold and prosperous sinner, who after many afflicting Calls to Repentance, continues still to sin on with an high hand, let him with fear and trembling conclude, that his Impunity now proceeds from Gods greatest vengeance, and the not Afflicting of him any more, from the very fury of his wrath and indignation; as those Arrows flie swiftest which flie invisible; and we often miss the blow, by the excess of anger.
1. Let the bold and prosperous sinner, who After many afflicting Calls to Repentance, continues still to sin on with an high hand, let him with Fear and trembling conclude, that his Impunity now proceeds from God's greatest vengeance, and the not Afflicting of him any more, from the very fury of his wrath and Indignation; as those Arrows fly swiftest which fly invisible; and we often miss the blow, by the excess of anger.
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after so many plagues of Conviction, let him know, that he wants but few degrees of being reduc'd unto the utmost Analysis of hardning, of being consummated into the constitution of the damn'd, the eternal glass of Hell-fire.
After so many plagues of Conviction, let him know, that he Wants but few Degrees of being reduced unto the utmost Analysis of hardening, of being consummated into the constitution of the damned, the Eternal glass of Hell-fire.
that by his Tryals is manifested the Victory of Faith, the omnipotence of grace. That 'tis the business of Afflictions to create in him a due consideration, hearty contrition, strong cryes, increase of reverence, and the inlargements of Piety. III.
that by his Trials is manifested the Victory of Faith, the omnipotence of grace. That it's the business of Afflictions to create in him a due consideration, hearty contrition, strong cries, increase of Reverence, and the enlargements of Piety. III.
And let us of this Church and Nation consider, that as we certainly are (and without ostentation or any secular interest be it spoken) the most perfect, and the sincerest part of the Catholick Church now existent, so we trust that 'tis the particular indulgence of Almighty God to keep us up to this our refinement, by constant persecutions: to correct and abate our personal defects, but to confirm and make our Doctrines more Illustrious, by the implacable oppositions of Phanatick rage, and Jesuitical malice: and if we farther reflect on that unparallel'd wisdome, learning, and moderation; that most rational and substantial Piety, Charity, and Devotion, which integrate the constitution of our Church, we shall be ready to acknowledge it highly expedient, that, with St. Paul, we should have a Thorn in the flesh, and be often under the buffetings of Satan, the designs and attempts of unreasonable and malicious adversaries;
And let us of this Church and nation Consider, that as we Certainly Are (and without ostentation or any secular Interest be it spoken) the most perfect, and the Sincerest part of the Catholic Church now existent, so we trust that it's the particular indulgence of Almighty God to keep us up to this our refinement, by constant persecutions: to correct and abate our personal defects, but to confirm and make our Doctrines more Illustrious, by the implacable oppositions of Fanatic rage, and Jesuitical malice: and if we farther reflect on that unparalleled Wisdom, learning, and moderation; that most rational and substantial Piety, Charity, and Devotion, which integrate the constitution of our Church, we shall be ready to acknowledge it highly expedient, that, with Saint Paul, we should have a Thorn in the Flesh, and be often under the buffetings of Satan, the designs and attempts of unreasonable and malicious Adversaries;
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lest we should be exalted above measure with our super-eminency of Doctrine; lest we should be puff'd up NONLATINALPHABET, with our abundance of Revelation.
lest we should be exalted above measure with our supereminency of Doctrine; lest we should be puffed up, with our abundance of Revelation.
And let our Enemies now destroy our City, let them burn down our Temples; if we cannot sing Praises under their Roofs, we will Repent under their Ashes; we will meet in Dens and Caves of the Earth,
And let our Enemies now destroy our city, let them burn down our Temples; if we cannot sing Praises under their Roofs, we will repent under their Ashes; we will meet in Dens and Caves of the Earth,
and by those obscurities, those stealths of Worship, render our Religion more Apostolical, more Primitive. Yet will we set our Moses in the gap, to see if peradventure the Lord too will Repent, and turn away his Displeasure from us;
and by those Obscurities, those stealths of Worship, render our Religion more Apostolical, more Primitive. Yet will we Set our Moses in the gap, to see if Peradventure the Lord too will repent, and turn away his Displeasure from us;
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to this end we will humble and prostrate our selves, grow Pioneers in Devotion, and countermine them with our Prayers; and should the Destroying Angel be already come forth, should Judgments be already Commission'd for our Ruine, yet will we pray against Decree, against Predestination it self;
to this end we will humble and prostrate our selves, grow Pioneers in Devotion, and countermine them with our Prayers; and should the Destroying Angel be already come forth, should Judgments be already Commissioned for our Ruin, yet will we pray against decree, against Predestination it self;
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