yet there is no greater Argument of Human Weakness than This, That we rarely know what we mean by Wisdom; nor are our Notions any where more confused than upon this Question, What it is to be Wise?
yet there is no greater Argument of Human Weakness than This, That we rarely know what we mean by Wisdom; nor Are our Notions any where more confused than upon this Question, What it is to be Wise?
To extricate our Thoughts in some measure out of this Confusion, we may distinguish Wisdom into Three Kinds, viz. The Wisdom of Grace, The Wisdom of Nature, and The Wisdom of Imagination. I.
To extricate our Thoughts in Some measure out of this Confusion, we may distinguish Wisdom into Three Kinds, viz. The Wisdom of Grace, The Wisdom of Nature, and The Wisdom of Imagination. I.
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And because this is our main Concern, and all the rest is but Loss and Shame and Misery without it, the Style of the Holy Spirit allows nothing to be Wisdom but purely This, The Fear of God, that is Wisdom;
And Because this is our main Concern, and all the rest is but Loss and Shame and Misery without it, the Style of the Holy Spirit allows nothing to be Wisdom but purely This, The fear of God, that is Wisdom;
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But forasmuch as this Wisdom is often separate from that of Grace, so it as often turns to Subtilty and Artifice, to Doubling and Insincerity, to Deceiving and being deceived.
But forasmuch as this Wisdom is often separate from that of Grace, so it as often turns to Subtlety and Artifice, to Doubling and Insincerity, to Deceiving and being deceived.
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This is that Wisdom whereby our Saviour says, The Children of the World are wiser in their Generation than the Children of Light: Wiser in their Generation, i. e.
This is that Wisdom whereby our Saviour Says, The Children of the World Are Wiser in their Generation than the Children of Light: Wiser in their Generation, i. e.
And what then is the Wisdom of the World but, (as our Apostle calls it) Foolishness with God? III. The Third kind is what I call the Wisdom of Imagination, that is, a Wisdom that has it's Being in Opinion and Conceit;
And what then is the Wisdom of the World but, (as our Apostle calls it) Foolishness with God? III. The Third kind is what I call the Wisdom of Imagination, that is, a Wisdom that has it's Being in Opinion and Conceit;
In which case the Man that affects Singularity is never pleas'd till he can form some New Conception of the matter Revealed, whereby he may import that the Reach of his Understanding is above the common Measure.
In which case the Man that affects Singularity is never pleased till he can from Some New Conception of the matter Revealed, whereby he may import that the Reach of his Understanding is above the Common Measure.
and to vend their own Imaginations in place of Divine Oracles, it was that the Prophet Is. 5. 21. Denounces Wo against them that are Wise in their own Eyes,
and to vend their own Imaginations in place of Divine Oracles, it was that the Prophet Is. 5. 21. Denounces Woe against them that Are Wise in their own Eyes,
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And my Text is no less a warning against this kind of Wisdom from the exemplary Mischiefs that it has formerly brought upon others, who professing themselves to be Wise became Fools;
And my Text is no less a warning against this kind of Wisdom from the exemplary Mischiefs that it has formerly brought upon Others, who professing themselves to be Wise became Fools;
I shall evidence by shewing, that the greatest Mischiefs relating to Religion, that ever yet happen'd to Mankind, have ow'd their Original to this pretended Wisdom.
I shall evidence by showing, that the greatest Mischiefs relating to Religion, that ever yet happened to Mankind, have owed their Original to this pretended Wisdom.
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It is the express Intimation of the Text. For the Apostle is here treating concerning the Idolatry of the Gentiles; to what extravagance it proceeded and from what Cause it sprung;
It is the express Intimation of the Text. For the Apostle is Here treating Concerning the Idolatry of the Gentiles; to what extravagance it proceeded and from what Cause it sprung;
Noah the Preacher of Righteousness who had warn'd the old World and call'd them to Repentance in vain, had at least this Advantage by it, that he came with greater awe to Teach and Instruct the New:
Noah the Preacher of Righteousness who had warned the old World and called them to Repentance in vain, had At least this Advantage by it, that he Come with greater awe to Teach and Instruct the New:
And he taught them in such a manner, both what they ought to Believe and to Do; that the Apostle says of them, v. 21. They all knew both God and his Worship;
And he taught them in such a manner, both what they ought to Believe and to Do; that the Apostle Says of them, v. 21. They all knew both God and his Worship;
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And this Corruption of Faith and Worship together came on so fast, that the same Noah who had seen the Funerals of the old World, for their No Religion;
And this Corruption of Faith and Worship together Come on so fast, that the same Noah who had seen the Funerals of the old World, for their No Religion;
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saw likewise in his own days the new World overspread with a False Religion, more Absurd and Irrational than None. Now the Text tells us expresly that this State of things as strange and gross as it was, was introduced under the pretences of Wisdom, Professing to be Wise they became Fools;
saw likewise in his own days the new World overspread with a False Religion, more Absurd and Irrational than None. Now the Text tells us expressly that this State of things as strange and gross as it was, was introduced under the pretences of Wisdom, Professing to be Wise they became Fools;
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We are all aware, ye Sons of Noah, that Religion is our Chief Concern, and therefore it well becomes us to improve and advance That as much as possible:
We Are all aware, you Sons of Noah, that Religion is our Chief Concern, and Therefore it well becomes us to improve and advance That as much as possible:
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And altho'd we have receiv'd Appointments from God for the Worship that he requires, yet if these appointments may be alter'd for his greater Glory, who doubts but it will be a commendable Piety so to alter them? Now our Father Noah has instituted us in a Religion, which in truth is too Simple, and too Unaffecting;
And althoed we have received Appointments from God for the Worship that he requires, yet if these appointments may be altered for his greater Glory, who doubts but it will be a commendable Piety so to altar them? Now our Father Noah has instituted us in a Religion, which in truth is too Simple, and too Unaffecting;
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It directs us to worship God abstractedly from all Sense, and under a confus'd Notion; under the formality of Attributes, as Power, Goodness, Justice, Wisdom, Eternity, and the like;
It directs us to worship God abstractedly from all Sense, and under a confused Notion; under the formality of Attributes, as Power, goodness, justice, Wisdom, Eternity, and the like;
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an Idea which we neither sufficiently reach, nor does that sufficiently reach our Affections: whereas in all Reason we ought to worship God more pompously, and more extensively too, than in his own Essence.
an Idea which we neither sufficiently reach, nor does that sufficiently reach our Affections: whereas in all Reason we ought to worship God more pompously, and more extensively too, than in his own Essence.
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Now to Men dispos'd with a Desire to be wise in Religion above what was prescrib'd, there is no doubt but such Arguments as these would soon seem wise and weighty enough, to enforce their Design.
Now to Men disposed with a Desire to be wise in Religion above what was prescribed, there is no doubt but such Arguments as these would soon seem wise and weighty enough, to enforce their Design.
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as we learn in this Chap. from the Verse following, and more at large from Wisd. 14. where we are told that Princes were worshipp'd; whether Present, in their Persons;
as we Learn in this Chap. from the Verse following, and more At large from Wisdom 14. where we Are told that Princes were worshipped; whither Present, in their Persons;
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In Paradise where it was without the Opposition of Appetite, without the Byass of Prejudice, without the Cloud of Perturbations, who can think but that it had then more Power and Freedom to conduct wisely,
In Paradise where it was without the Opposition of Appetite, without the Bias of Prejudice, without the Cloud of Perturbations, who can think but that it had then more Power and Freedom to conduct wisely,
this must needs pass for an Argument to abate some of that Veneration, which the Opinionative are willing should be ascrib'd to it, under this State of so unhappy a Change;
this must needs pass for an Argument to abate Some of that Veneration, which the Opinionative Are willing should be ascribed to it, under this State of so unhappy a Change;
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Whereof we may take an Illustration from a Scriptural Passage, 1 Kings 13. where we find a young Prophet of Judah sent to denounce God's Judgments against Jeroboam in Bethel; who withal received a Command that he should neither Eat nor Drink in that Place.
Whereof we may take an Illustration from a Scriptural Passage, 1 Kings 13. where we find a young Prophet of Judah sent to denounce God's Judgments against Jeroboam in Bethel; who withal received a Command that he should neither Eat nor Drink in that Place.
But an old Prophet of the Place (moved probably with Envy that the Honour of this Message had been conferr'd on a Prophet of Judah, and not on himself) addresses to him with an Imposture;
But an old Prophet of the Place (moved probably with Envy that the Honour of this Message had been conferred on a Prophet of Judah, and not on himself) Addresses to him with an Imposture;
and settled and Empire of Sin upon a firmer Establishment in the Christian World, than either Ignorance or natural Pravity was ever able to do in the Heathen. For Example;
and settled and Empire of since upon a firmer Establishment in the Christian World, than either Ignorance or natural Pravity was ever able to do in the Heathen. For Exampl;
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The Heathens still found an Invincible Check from the Bodings of their Conscience, and the Apprehensions thereupon that there was to be a future Reckoning:
The heathens still found an Invincible Check from the Bodings of their Conscience, and the Apprehensions thereupon that there was to be a future Reckoning:
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The Wisdom of the World to arm it self against these Fears, did, (1.) (from Countenance of the palpable Mistake concerning the Gods then in Worship) start the Opinion, That there was no God at all.
The Wisdom of the World to arm it self against these Fears, did, (1.) (from Countenance of the palpable Mistake Concerning the God's then in Worship) start the Opinion, That there was no God At all.
And of this the Psalmist gives us Notice, Psal. 14. 1. Others (proposing to offer less Violence to the common Conceptions of Mankind) taught That indeed there were Gods; but that they were Regardless of Human Affairs;
And of this the Psalmist gives us Notice, Psalm 14. 1. Others (proposing to offer less Violence to the Common Conceptions of Mankind) taught That indeed there were God's; but that they were Regardless of Human Affairs;
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A Third, and that the strongest Barrier against such ill Bodings, was drawn from the Philosophy of our Constitution, whereby the Soul was represented as necessarily Mortal as the Body,
A Third, and that the Strongest Barrier against such ill Bodings, was drawn from the Philosophy of our Constitution, whereby the Soul was represented as necessarily Mortal as the Body,
In which Scriptures (during the Period they pretend to, which is much above half of that Time the World has hitherto lasted) we meet with the best Account of all things even Civil as well as Sacred.
In which Scriptures (during the Period they pretend to, which is much above half of that Time the World has hitherto lasted) we meet with the best Account of all things even Civil as well as Sacred.
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And how absurd would it be for me, in this particular Matter, to ascribe the Fortuitous Being, and the Perishable State of the Soul, and the Regardlesness of the Deity, to Epicurus; when we find these Notions recorded in Holy Writ,
And how absurd would it be for me, in this particular Matter, to ascribe the Fortuitous Being, and the Perishable State of the Soul, and the Regardlessness of the Deity, to Epicurus; when we find these Notions recorded in Holy Writ,
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But, these Circumstantials set aside, my main Point was to shew, That these several Arguments had not power to shelter the Heathen World from frightful apprehensions concerning the future ill consequences of Sin:
But, these Circumstantials Set aside, my main Point was to show, That these several Arguments had not power to shelter the Heathen World from frightful apprehensions Concerning the future ill consequences of since:
Whereas, in a more Illuminated time, (as we must allow that of the Gospel to be;) The most Illuminated of that time (as they would have us allow the Socinians to be) have with great Ostentation,
Whereas, in a more Illuminated time, (as we must allow that of the Gospel to be;) The most Illuminated of that time (as they would have us allow the socinians to be) have with great Ostentation,
Abating the Outrage they have done the Scripture, (about which they are not very Sollicitous) they have made their Hypothesis Plausible as well as Grateful: They speak respectfully of God;
Abating the Outrage they have done the Scripture, (about which they Are not very Solicitous) they have made their Hypothesis Plausible as well as Grateful: They speak respectfully of God;
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Cries out — Quis puer hoc credat? i. e. (In Hypothesi) in it's circumstantial Dress, It were Childish to believe this — But adds (in Thesi) At tu vera puta —:
Cries out — Quis puer hoc Credat? i. e. (In Hypothesis) in it's circumstantial Dress, It were Childish to believe this — But adds (in Thessia) At tu vera puta —:
And who can say but Juvenal was a wise Man in this Reflection? But then is it not surprizingly strange that a more elevated Wisdom should set it self to prove, That nothing like This ought to be believ'd? And that all fears of Futurity are Groundless,
And who can say but Juvenal was a wise Man in this Reflection? But then is it not surprisingly strange that a more elevated Wisdom should Set it self to prove, That nothing like This ought to be believed? And that all fears of Futurity Are Groundless,
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And can it be Wisdom too, for any not to believe Hell Torments, who are sure that God has revealed them? And is it not farther surprizingly strange, that those Men who pretend their Zeal for Morality is above that of all others, should open such a Sluice to the Flood of Immorality? Alas!
And can it be Wisdom too, for any not to believe Hell Torments, who Are sure that God has revealed them? And is it not farther surprisingly strange, that those Men who pretend their Zeal for Morality is above that of all Others, should open such a Sluice to the Flood of Immorality? Alas!
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what a Contradictory thing is professed Wisdom, when once it affects to lead in Matters of Faith? It is much more both absurd and mischievous than confessed Folly.
what a Contradictory thing is professed Wisdom, when once it affects to led in Matters of Faith? It is much more both absurd and mischievous than confessed Folly.
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Suitably to this — It is commonly observed of that sect of Men, who in the earliest days of Christianity invented so many various Corruptions of Faith, that they hardly left room for the Invention of subsequent Ages to find out any New;
Suitably to this — It is commonly observed of that sect of Men, who in the earliest days of Christianity invented so many various Corruptions of Faith, that they hardly left room for the Invention of subsequent Ages to find out any New;
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that Scheme of Christian Doctrine which had been deliver'd, prescribes to him this Means as necessary to his purpose (viz.) That he should avoid the opposition NONLATINALPHABET of Science (or Wisdom) falsly so call'd; which some professing have erred concerning the Faith:
that Scheme of Christian Doctrine which had been Delivered, prescribes to him this Means as necessary to his purpose (viz.) That he should avoid the opposition of Science (or Wisdom) falsely so called; which Some professing have erred Concerning the Faith:
Some of the Heathen Philosophers who were grown to dress up their Doctrines for Ostentation, and not so much to instruct, as to surprize and make themselves admired;
some of the Heathen Philosophers who were grown to dress up their Doctrines for Ostentation, and not so much to instruct, as to surprise and make themselves admired;
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And that therefore altho' God had in the Gospel declared a Resurrection, yet this Resurrection was to be understood in a Figurative and Moral Sense, i. e. to import no more than a rising from the State of Sin to the State of Righteousness:
And that Therefore although God had in the Gospel declared a Resurrection, yet this Resurrection was to be understood in a Figurative and Moral Sense, i. e. to import no more than a rising from the State of since to the State of Righteousness:
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when it shall appear that he obeys for God's sake, rather than for his own? Thus those of the Anti-Anastasie were pleased by dint of Wisdom to void the Promises of Heaven;
when it shall appear that he obeys for God's sake, rather than for his own? Thus those of the Anti-Anastasie were pleased by dint of Wisdom to void the Promises of Heaven;
which wild Conclusion we may wonder at the less, since the wise Socinians have at this day with no less contradiction to Scripture been pleased to void the Threatnings of Hell.
which wild Conclusion we may wonder At the less, since the wise socinians have At this day with no less contradiction to Scripture been pleased to void the Threatenings of Hell.
Resting upon a naked Faith as the entire Qualification; and thereby voiding the Law, vilifying Obedience, and turning the Grace of God into Wantonness.
Resting upon a naked Faith as the entire Qualification; and thereby voiding the Law, vilifying obedience, and turning the Grace of God into Wantonness.
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The Antinomians alledg'd, That whereas it was the peculiarGlory of God to be infinitely Merciful; and the Glory of Christ's Satisfaction to be infinitely Valuable;
The Antinomians alleged, That whereas it was the peculiarGlory of God to be infinitely Merciful; and the Glory of Christ's Satisfaction to be infinitely Valuable;
And at least we have this to alledge for the support of its pretence, That the Antinomians were not more extravagant in asserting that Christ's Satisfaction was sufficient to save without the care of Good Living,
And At least we have this to allege for the support of its pretence, That the Antinomians were not more extravagant in asserting that Christ's Satisfaction was sufficient to save without the care of Good Living,
While its particular Champions, the Jesuits, (the Artificial Petavius and others) have contriv'd with elaborate Pains and Study, to weaken the Authority of the Scriptures, as being of Uncertain Interpretation, and of Uncertain Reception;
While its particular Champions, the Jesuits, (the Artificial Petavius and Others) have contrived with elaborate Pains and Study, to weaken the authority of the Scriptures, as being of Uncertain Interpretation, and of Uncertain Reception;
and to puzzle the Sense of all the distinguishing Articles of Christianity; by alledging the Opposition of Hereticks, and the difference of Conciliary Decrees;
and to puzzle the Sense of all the distinguishing Articles of Christianity; by alleging the Opposition of Heretics, and the difference of Conciliary Decrees;
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and with purpose to Deceive, so they might serve this Important End, ( viz. ) To make Christians believe that they must needs be bewildred while they were under such an unstable Conduct as that of the Scriptures, Councils and Fathers;
and with purpose to Deceive, so they might serve this Important End, (viz.) To make Christians believe that they must needs be bewildered while they were under such an unstable Conduct as that of the Scriptures, Councils and Father's;
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and therefore to conclude themselves obliged to repair to the standing Infallible Guide. Ask the Socinians themselves Whether there were not admirable Wisdom in this Contrivance:
and Therefore to conclude themselves obliged to repair to the standing Infallible Guide. Ask the socinians themselves Whither there were not admirable Wisdom in this Contrivance:
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What I have said hitherto has been in order to evince the Truth of my first Proposition, (viz.) That Wisdom is a dangerous Guide in Matters of Religion.
What I have said hitherto has been in order to evince the Truth of my First Proposition, (viz.) That Wisdom is a dangerous Guide in Matters of Religion.
I suppose there is no Man in the World of what Perswasion soever, but will be ready to grant, That what God vouchsafes to reveal, must be abler to make us Wise,
I suppose there is no Man in the World of what Persuasion soever, but will be ready to grant, That what God vouchsafes to reveal, must be abler to make us Wise,
The Dispute is only upon this Point, What kind of Faith (in particular) it must be that makes Men Wise: And we shall find that the Judgment of Mankind lies under a common Prejudice against what is true in reference to this Point.
The Dispute is only upon this Point, What kind of Faith (in particular) it must be that makes Men Wise: And we shall find that the Judgement of Mankind lies under a Common Prejudice against what is true in Referente to this Point.
Joh. 11. We have another Passage wherein Thomas was wholly concern'd, There ( verse 14.) our Saviour says to his Disciples Our Friend Lazarus is Dead, and I am glad for your sakes that I was not there, to the intent you may believe:
John 11. We have Another Passage wherein Thomas was wholly concerned, There (verse 14.) our Saviour Says to his Disciples Our Friend Lazarus is Dead, and I am glad for your sakes that I was not there, to the intent you may believe:
This we see our Saviour urged expresly for an Encouragment of their Faith; and yet Thomas his Reasoning turned it immediately into an Argument of Distrust:
This we see our Saviour urged expressly for an Encouragement of their Faith; and yet Thomas his Reasoning turned it immediately into an Argument of Distrust:
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and goest thou thither again? Now this Thought made a deep Impression upon the wary Imagination of Thomas; and therefore when he saw his Master resolved to go;
and goest thou thither again? Now this Thought made a deep Impression upon the wary Imagination of Thomas; and Therefore when he saw his Master resolved to go;
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which is a probable Argument that he had had a Conversation with the Greeks; and perhaps had learnt from them That NONLATINALPHABET Have a care of being Credulous, was the grand Advice of one of their Sages;
which is a probable Argument that he had had a Conversation with the Greeks; and perhaps had learned from them That Have a care of being Credulous, was the grand advice of one of their Sages;
Reason suggested that when he had his Choice of several Matters to believe, he ought to choose that for the Matter of his belief which was in it self most Credible:
Reason suggested that when he had his Choice of several Matters to believe, he ought to choose that for the Matter of his belief which was in it self most Credible:
Now it was more Credible that such a number of Witnesses might be Deceiv'd; or (as Honest as they once were) might be drawn into Confederacy to Deceive; Then that One should rise from the Dead: Because This was naturally Impossible;
Now it was more Credible that such a number of Witnesses might be Deceived; or (as Honest as they once were) might be drawn into Confederacy to Deceive; Then that One should rise from the Dead: Because This was naturally Impossible;
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and acted like a Wise that is to say, a Cautious Man (as for ought I see, the standard of many Men's Judgments at this day will allow him to have acted:) Yet let me observe one thing more from his Example,
and acted like a Wise that is to say, a Cautious Man (as for ought I see, the standard of many Men's Judgments At this day will allow him to have acted:) Yet let me observe one thing more from his Exampl,
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For while it is Hunting after those Arguments that make for its present Purpose, it never takes notice of those that make more strongly against it. As for Instance:
For while it is Hunting After those Arguments that make for its present Purpose, it never Takes notice of those that make more strongly against it. As for Instance:
Yet at the same time he declared it fit to be determin'd by the Verdict of his Own Sense: Where he never consider'd what a haughty Piece of Injustice it was to imply that his own single Sense was less Fallible,
Yet At the same time he declared it fit to be determined by the Verdict of his Own Sense: Where he never considered what a haughty Piece of Injustice it was to imply that his own single Sense was less Fallible,
For had he not Converst now three Years under the Conviction of all sorts of Miracles, and could he not extend his Faith to believe that One more might be done? After he had seen his Lord raise more than One from the Dead;
For had he not Conversed now three years under the Conviction of all sorts of Miracles, and could he not extend his Faith to believe that One more might be done? After he had seen his Lord raise more than One from the Dead;
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could he not think it possible that he himself might be rais'd by the same Power? Nay (what was yet more culpable than all the rest) after he had heard his Lord publickly averring before hand, that Thus it must be, and that he should Rise again the Third Day;
could he not think it possible that he himself might be raised by the same Power? Nay (what was yet more culpable than all the rest) After he had herd his Lord publicly averring before hand, that Thus it must be, and that he should Rise again the Third Day;
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I doubt not but they who scruple or oppose or depart from the Common Faith at this day, will readily allow, That in whatever they except against the Received Form, they do it from this same principle of Wisdom and Caution, ( viz. ) Lest they should be impos'd upon by the Mistakes of others;
I doubt not but they who scruple or oppose or depart from the Common Faith At this day, will readily allow, That in whatever they except against the Received From, they do it from this same principle of Wisdom and Caution, (viz.) Lest they should be imposed upon by the Mistakes of Others;
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or may, observe it to clash with the common Reason of Mankind? And certainly to deny Revelation is a Conceit that clashes with the Universal Reason and Perswasion of Mankind in all Ages of the World.
or may, observe it to clash with the Common Reason of Mankind? And Certainly to deny Revelation is a Conceit that clashes with the Universal Reason and Persuasion of Mankind in all Ages of the World.
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For there is nothing wherein Men have consented more freely (next to the Being of a God) than in this Belief That it is suitable to the Goodness of God to hold a Correspondence and Commerce with Men,
For there is nothing wherein Men have consented more freely (next to the Being of a God) than in this Belief That it is suitable to the goodness of God to hold a Correspondence and Commerce with Men,
And therefore he will not deny these Oracles to have been, and to have been frequent among the Gentiles: He readily grants that Socrates (which he is willing to prefer above Christ and his Apostles) got his Reputation of being counted the wisest Man of his Country, from the Response of an Oracle: (In which Response, by the way, we must presume either that God over-rul'd the Voice of the evil Spirit (as he did in Balaam's Case) and so forc'd him to speak on Virtue's side;
And Therefore he will not deny these Oracles to have been, and to have been frequent among the Gentiles: He readily grants that Socrates (which he is willing to prefer above christ and his Apostles) god his Reputation of being counted the Wisest Man of his Country, from the Response of an Oracle: (In which Response, by the Way, we must presume either that God overruled the Voice of the evil Spirit (as he did in Balaam's Case) and so forced him to speak on Virtue's side;
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over whom he was not always able to maintain his awe without some semblance of approving Virtue. ) Now if such Oracles were; Let any one likewise tell us how they came to cease all together,
over whom he was not always able to maintain his awe without Some semblance of approving Virtue.) Now if such Oracles were; Let any one likewise tell us how they Come to cease all together,
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How came they thus to cease on a sudden, if it were not from the design of Providence to make that event give Testimony both to Jesus and his Revelation:
How Come they thus to cease on a sudden, if it were not from the Design of Providence to make that event give Testimony both to jesus and his Revelation:
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and to his Revelation, That it was Plenary and Consummate, so that for the future Men needed not seek any farther to learn what is the full and acceptable and perfect Will of God.
and to his Revelation, That it was Plenary and Consummate, so that for the future Men needed not seek any farther to Learn what is the full and acceptable and perfect Will of God.
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When the Deist confirms his prejudice against the Christian Revelation from this Argument, That all Religions do equally pretend to the fame Original, that is, to come from God:
When the Deist confirms his prejudice against the Christian Revelation from this Argument, That all Religions do equally pretend to the fame Original, that is, to come from God:
Let Reason enquire, and then Judge, and say whether there is any other Religion so worthy of God as the Christian is? Whether there is any whose Doctrines are so convincing:
Let Reason inquire, and then Judge, and say whither there is any other Religion so worthy of God as the Christian is? Whither there is any whose Doctrines Are so convincing:
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How the Gospel Truth, that asserted it self so effectually in its beginning, at that time when any possibility of fraud could best have been discover'd,
How the Gospel Truth, that asserted it self so effectually in its beginning, At that time when any possibility of fraud could best have been discovered,
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can after 1600 Years be given up as a Fiction, or be affected with any such discredit, from the perfidiousness of a company of bold and loose and weak Deserters? Let any one reflect upon theseConsiderations,
can After 1600 years be given up as a Fiction, or be affected with any such discredit, from the perfidiousness of a company of bold and lose and weak Deserters? Let any one reflect upon theseConsiderations,
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The several Religions received among the Gentiles, were so full of gross Superstitions, and palpable Errors, that many particular Men among those Gentiles, of sounder Judgments and better Spirits than the common, were scandalized at their Religions and had them in Contempt:
The several Religions received among the Gentiles, were so full of gross Superstitions, and palpable Errors, that many particular Men among those Gentiles, of sounder Judgments and better Spirits than the Common, were scandalized At their Religions and had them in Contempt:
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and that they may be thought like them, set up to treat Christian Religion with the same Contempt as those did the Vulgar Heathen. But as it is observ'd of the Ape, that altho' of all Creatures it most resembles Man,
and that they may be Thought like them, Set up to Treat Christian Religion with the same Contempt as those did the vulgar Heathen. But as it is observed of the Ape, that although of all Creatures it most resembles Man,
Now these Men were truly Wise, none under their Circumstances could possibly be Wiser. But on the contrary the Deists are such, as at Noon-Day shut up their Windows, and keep out the Sun;
Now these Men were truly Wise, none under their circumstances could possibly be Wiser. But on the contrary the Deists Are such, as At Noon-Day shut up their Windows, and keep out the Sun;
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Now what can be alledg'd for the Wisdom of These? There have been some carried away with this phantastical and mistaken Admiration of the Philosophers Religion in former times of Christianity;
Now what can be alleged for the Wisdom of These? There have been Some carried away with this fantastical and mistaken Admiration of the Philosophers Religion in former times of Christianity;
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But they never grew Numerous and in heart till of late, since they took their Growth and Apology from the Conduct of the Socinians; The second Party I proposed to instance in.
But they never grew Numerous and in heart till of late, since they took their Growth and Apology from the Conduct of the socinians; The second Party I proposed to instance in.
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In conformity to this Design, Socinus, after he had form'd his new Scheme of Divinity, to make it pass upon the World with all the Advantage he could, Introduces his Exposition upon St. John, with this Sentence, Multa sunt profecto in quibus Christianus orbis adhuc caecutit,
In conformity to this Design, Socinus, After he had formed his new Scheme of Divinity, to make it pass upon the World with all the Advantage he could, Introduces his Exposition upon Saint John, with this Sentence, Multa sunt profecto in quibus Christian Orbis Adhoc caecutit,
There are undoubtedly many Truths, and perhaps more than any one can either believe or imagine, in respect of which the whole Christian World has been hitherto quite Blind and Ignorant:
There Are undoubtedly many Truths, and perhaps more than any one can either believe or imagine, in respect of which the Whole Christian World has been hitherto quite Blind and Ignorant:
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Which Sentence (and several such like accompanying it) makes it appear, That never any Man more fill'd up each Member of that Character which our Saviour gives of the Pharisee, ( viz. ) Of thinking well of himself and despising others, than Socinus did.
Which Sentence (and several such like accompanying it) makes it appear, That never any Man more filled up each Member of that Character which our Saviour gives of the Pharisee, (viz.) Of thinking well of himself and despising Others, than Socinus did.
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That they were Dark and of a doubtful Sense, and of no authoritative Interpretation, and that hitherto they had been quite mistaken, till such time as this new Illumination had been vouchsafed to himself.
That they were Dark and of a doubtful Sense, and of no authoritative Interpretation, and that hitherto they had been quite mistaken, till such time as this new Illumination had been vouchsafed to himself.
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So that the Light of the Word had not yet enlightned Mankind, till his Comments had dispell'd the Cloud that lay upon it? Can any one believe with Reason, that all the Assertors of our Religion in the Primitive Ages, Men Holy, Studious, Learned, Signalized and Distinguish'd with all the Gifts of God, both Gracious and Miraculous;
So that the Light of the Word had not yet enlightened Mankind, till his Comments had dispelled the Cloud that lay upon it? Can any one believe with Reason, that all the Assertors of our Religion in the Primitive Ages, Men Holy, Studious, Learned, Signalized and Distinguished with all the Gifts of God, both Gracious and Miraculous;
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yet to let 15 Centuries pass without making it commonly known what it was he required Men to believe? Can it appear consistent with God's Promise to his Church, That his Spirit should lead them into all Truth,
yet to let 15 Centuries pass without making it commonly known what it was he required Men to believe? Can it appear consistent with God's Promise to his Church, That his Spirit should led them into all Truth,
and yet for such a Tract of time the whole multitude of Christians should account it impious to believe That, which now the Polish Catechism says, It is damnable not to believe, when it is propos'd:
and yet for such a Tract of time the Whole multitude of Christians should account it impious to believe That, which now the Polish Catechism Says, It is damnable not to believe, when it is proposed:
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Say rather why the Deists may not as colourably Reject the Scriptures, as the Socinians Own them, with so many contradictions to God's Truth and Goodness.
Say rather why the Deists may not as colorably Reject the Scriptures, as the socinians Own them, with so many contradictions to God's Truth and goodness.
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In due Reverence to both these Attributes of God we are obliged to affirm that the Sense as well as the Letter of the Scripture, in all Matters necessary either to be done or believed, hath been the Depositum of the Church,
In due reverence to both these Attributes of God we Are obliged to affirm that the Sense as well as the letter of the Scripture, in all Matters necessary either to be done or believed, hath been the Depositum of the Church,
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and altho' they will not affirm that Reason has the Measure of what is or what may be; yet they resolve Reason to have the Measure of what ought to be believed: Which I think is Absurdity sufficient.
and although they will not affirm that Reason has the Measure of what is or what may be; yet they resolve Reason to have the Measure of what ought to be believed: Which I think is Absurdity sufficient.
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They conclude thereupon that the Doctrine of the Incarnation, that is, of God Taking our Flesh, and dwelling among us, must not be believed, because it is Irrational:
They conclude thereupon that the Doctrine of the Incarnation, that is, of God Taking our Flesh, and Dwelling among us, must not be believed, Because it is Irrational:
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so neither is it any Office of Charity in the Socinians to go off from the Foundation to meet Jews and Turks; and to turn Half-Infidels, that They may turn Half-Christians.
so neither is it any Office of Charity in the socinians to go off from the Foundation to meet jews and Turks; and to turn Half-Infidels, that They may turn Half-Christians.
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And to justifie this Censure, let us confider, That the Mystery of any thing, or (what is all one) The Abstruse or Incomprehensible Nature of any thing, is no Argument against our believing it.
And to justify this Censure, let us confider, That the Mystery of any thing, or (what is all one) The Abstruse or Incomprehensible Nature of any thing, is no Argument against our believing it.
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This is a Rule, I am sure, that holds true in Nature, and then with what Face can we deny it to hold true in Religion? We surrender our Faith to the state of all Visible things, without comprehending them;
This is a Rule, I am sure, that holds true in Nature, and then with what Face can we deny it to hold true in Religion? We surrender our Faith to the state of all Visible things, without comprehending them;
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and what Obstinacy is it then to refuse our Faith to the Things of God under the same Condition? It would be an affront and calumny to Nature, to affirm that Those things which are before us, those Works of God which lie every Moment under our Senses, are simply Credible;
and what Obstinacy is it then to refuse our Faith to the Things of God under the same Condition? It would be an affront and calumny to Nature, to affirm that Those things which Are before us, those Works of God which lie every Moment under our Senses, Are simply Credible;
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How short is our Plummet from Fathoming, the Essence, Mode, Powers, Operations, Productions of the most common Beings? Undoubtedly had we the Knowledge of this World we live in,
How short is our Plummet from Fathoming, the Essence, Mode, Powers, Operations, Productions of the most Common Beings? Undoubtedly had we the Knowledge of this World we live in,
as we have that of its Maker only from a Book, I say, had we the Knowledge of this World we live in only from a Book, we should be Tempted to treat that Book with as little Reverence,
as we have that of its Maker only from a Book, I say, had we the Knowledge of this World we live in only from a Book, we should be Tempted to Treat that Book with as little reverence,
Let me produce an Instance or two, and those out of the Holy Scriptures, to inculcate by the way, That the Philosophical Truths we meet with there, are Venerable as well as the Divine.
Let me produce an Instance or two, and those out of the Holy Scriptures, to inculcate by the Way, That the Philosophical Truths we meet with there, Are Venerable as well as the Divine.
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Now this Production of the World we believe from the Authority of the Report; and likewise because of the Absurdities that necessarily follow from the Supposal of the contrary:
Now this Production of the World we believe from the authority of the Report; and likewise Because of the Absurdities that necessarily follow from the Supposal of the contrary:
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And let any one say whether it be harder to believe, That the Divine Essence did from everlasting emanate or flow into Three Social and Co-eternal Subsistences, than to believe, That in the Beginning of Time All things were made out of Nothing:
And let any one say whither it be harder to believe, That the Divine Essence did from everlasting emanate or flow into Three Social and Coeternal Subsistences, than to believe, That in the Beginning of Time All things were made out of Nothing:
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Now when we find it impossible for the utmost Art of Man to make a small Clod of Earth hang in the Air, It is naturally Impossible for Man to conceive,
Now when we find it impossible for the utmost Art of Man to make a small Clod of Earth hang in the Air, It is naturally Impossible for Man to conceive,
For another Instance of the Incomprehensible Works of God, The Sea is alledg'd in the same Book ( cap. 38. ) Of which tis said, That God has establisht its place by his Decree,
For Another Instance of the Incomprehensible Works of God, The Sea is alleged in the same Book (cap. 38.) Of which this said, That God has established its place by his decree,
Reason uninform'd by Experience of this state of things could not possibly believe it, and yet how wild would the Man be thought that should not believe it?
Reason uninformed by Experience of this state of things could not possibly believe it, and yet how wild would the Man be Thought that should not believe it?
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Let me instance but in one Particular, whereof I will borrow the Hint from Solomon in his description of old Age, Eccl. 12. 6. Or ever the Wheel be broken at the Cistern:
Let me instance but in one Particular, whereof I will borrow the Hint from Solomon in his description of old Age, Ecclesiastes 12. 6. Or ever the Wheel be broken At the Cistern:
Which Expression cannot be interpreted so Genuinly of any thing, as of that Spring and Pulse in the Heart, which begins the Circular Motion of our Blood;
Which Expression cannot be interpreted so Genuinely of any thing, as of that Spring and Pulse in the Heart, which begins the Circular Motion of our Blood;
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Let us consider, in this Instance, How our Blood a ponderous Body, (contrary to the Laws of common Nature) ascends without reluctancy, and descends without Precipitation;
Let us Consider, in this Instance, How our Blood a ponderous Body, (contrary to the Laws of Common Nature) ascends without reluctancy, and descends without Precipitation;
Let any weigh these Circumstances, and he may well cry out with the same Holy Writer, Such Knowledge is too Great and Excellent for me, I cannot attain unto it.
Let any weigh these circumstances, and he may well cry out with the same Holy Writer, Such Knowledge is too Great and Excellent for me, I cannot attain unto it.
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and not admit a Mystery? We account those Israelites were very gross Logicians, who thus argu'd Psal. 78. He smote the stony Rock indeed, that the Waters gushed forth;
and not admit a Mystery? We account those Israelites were very gross Logicians, who thus argued Psalm 78. He smote the stony Rock indeed, that the Waters gushed forth;
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although we acknowledge that God has done this Miracle, we will not believe he can do another: But it is yet more gross arguing for any one to say, I believe the Works of God, altho' they are Incomprehensible;
although we acknowledge that God has done this Miracle, we will not believe he can do Another: But it is yet more gross arguing for any one to say, I believe the Works of God, although they Are Incomprehensible;
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And here (I confess again) Reason has a proper Province to act in; For altho' Reason is not to prescribe the Matter of our Belief; Revelation is to do That;
And Here (I confess again) Reason has a proper Province to act in; For although Reason is not to prescribe the Matter of our Belief; Revelation is to do That;
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Three in whom we must believe; To whom we must pray; By whom we must bless, to whom we must give Worship and Glory: Undoubtedly they will believe a Trinity,
Three in whom we must believe; To whom we must pray; By whom we must bless, to whom we must give Worship and Glory: Undoubtedly they will believe a Trinity,
But when they see it express in Scripture, That he, who in time was Jesus, was God from everlasting; that when he took our Flesh upon him, He thought it no Robbery to be equal with the Father;
But when they see it express in Scripture, That he, who in time was jesus, was God from everlasting; that when he took our Flesh upon him, He Thought it no Robbery to be equal with the Father;
For they have not purged Mystery out of the Scripture They have only changed its Place: They have taken Mystery out of the Doctrine of the Scripture, Where it was Venerable,
For they have not purged Mystery out of the Scripture They have only changed its Place: They have taken Mystery out of the Doctrine of the Scripture, Where it was Venerable,
Amidst this Romantick Pains of Interpreting, They met with a Text in the General Epistle of St. John, (viz.) There are Three that bear witness in Heaven, the Father, the Word,
Amid this Romantic Pains of Interpreting, They met with a Text in the General Epistle of Saint John, (viz.) There Are Three that bear witness in Heaven, the Father, the Word,
But being instructed that there were some Copies of the Bible wherein this Text was not found, they concluded it for their Advantage to let the Epistle pass for Canonical,
But being instructed that there were Some Copies of the bible wherein this Text was not found, they concluded it for their Advantage to let the Epistle pass for Canonical,
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Tis alledg'd that this Text was not read in those Copies that were in vulgar Use at the time of the Council of Nice; because otherwise it would certainly have been cited against the Arians: However this be, tis as certain that this Text was read in those Copies that were in use before the Council of Nice; For St. Cyprian asserting the Unity of the Church, notwithstanding it consisted of several Congregations, Argues it from the Unity of the Godhead altho' consisting of several Persons,
This alleged that this Text was not read in those Copies that were in Vulgar Use At the time of the Council of Nicaenae; Because otherwise it would Certainly have been cited against the Arians: However this be, this as certain that this Text was read in those Copies that were in use before the Council of Nicaenae; For Saint Cyprian asserting the Unity of the Church, notwithstanding it consisted of several Congregations, Argues it from the Unity of the Godhead although consisting of several Persons,
and yet the God-head not Divided, proves it from This Text, Hi tres Unum sunt. And then he remarks from the Gender that they were not Unus but Unum, i. e.
and yet the Godhead not Divided, Proves it from This Text, Him tres Unum sunt. And then he remarks from the Gender that they were not Unus but Unum, i. e.
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Thus it was before the Council of Nice, and within half an Age after that Council Damasus Bishop of Rome (perceiving from common Complaints, that many Differences were crept into the several Copies of the Scripture) imploy'd St. Jerome, the most expert Man in Biblick Learning that was in the World, to bestow his Pains in rectifying those Errors.
Thus it was before the Council of Nicaenae, and within half an Age After that Council Damasus Bishop of Room (perceiving from Common Complaints, that many Differences were crept into the several Copies of the Scripture) employed Saint Jerome, the most expert Man in Biblick Learning that was in the World, to bestow his Pains in rectifying those Errors.
And he having Copies sent to him from all Parts of the World (as himself expresses it) and conferring them together, among many other Emendations from the Authority of those Copies that were most Ancient and Authentick, he restored this Text, with a Brand of Unfaithfulness upon those who first omitted it:
And he having Copies sent to him from all Parts of the World (as himself Expresses it) and conferring them together, among many other Emendations from the authority of those Copies that were most Ancient and Authentic, he restored this Text, with a Brand of Unfaithfulness upon those who First omitted it:
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So that all the Fault concerning this Text can lie only on those who first left it out; And what side of the Controversie that Fault can affect, let any one Judge.
So that all the Fault Concerning this Text can lie only on those who First left it out; And what side of the Controversy that Fault can affect, let any one Judge.
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who insinuate with Hands lifted up that the Trinitarian Cause must needs be desperate, when it could be reduc'd to such mean shifts as the forging of a Text for its support:
who insinuate with Hands lifted up that the Trinitarian Cause must needs be desperate, when it could be reduced to such mean shifts as the forging of a Text for its support:
Upon the whole, we find that the Trinitarian Cause asserted it self sufficiently against Arius, altho' his Opposition was more formidable than any others can be:
Upon the Whole, we find that the Trinitarian Cause asserted it self sufficiently against Arius, although his Opposition was more formidable than any Others can be:
Because his Hypothesis came by little and little to be so finely spun, that many Good Men professed they could hardly see that the Difference of the Controversie lay more than in Words;
Because his Hypothesis Come by little and little to be so finely spun, that many Good Men professed they could hardly see that the Difference of the Controversy lay more than in Words;
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and that Erat quando erat, which they only insisted upon (being applyed to the Term of a Rational duration not a Temporary one) was not competent to justifie such Uncharitable Divisions.
and that Erat quando erat, which they only insisted upon (being applied to the Term of a Rational duration not a Temporary one) was not competent to justify such Uncharitable Divisions.
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But Thomas being vouchsafed an irresistible Conviction, made what amends he was able, by Crying out My Lord, and my God! Which the Christian World has hitherto lookt upon as the Orthodox Confession of our Faith in Christ.
But Thomas being vouchsafed an irresistible Conviction, made what amends he was able, by Crying out My Lord, and my God! Which the Christian World has hitherto looked upon as the Orthodox Confessi of our Faith in christ.
But the Socinians, to avoid this part of his Example, are pleas'd to expound his Confession in this Mysterious manner, They say, that the First Compellation My Lord, was directed to Christ;
But the socinians, to avoid this part of his Exampl, Are pleased to expound his Confessi in this Mysterious manner, They say, that the First Compellation My Lord, was directed to christ;
That these Men would let Reason and Modesty work on them so far as to restore Mystery to its proper Place in the Book of God! To let it be in Things, where it is Adorable,
That these Men would let Reason and Modesty work on them so Far as to restore Mystery to its proper Place in the Book of God! To let it be in Things, where it is Adorable,
And since it is equally an Act of Reason to believe, that whatsoever is Revealed relating to God, The more Incredible it seems, the more Credible it is:
And since it is equally an Act of Reason to believe, that whatsoever is Revealed relating to God, The more Incredible it seems, the more Credible it is:
Because if what is Revealed concerning God were always adapted to our Comprehension, how could it reach, or with any fitness represent that Nature, which we allow to be Incomprehensible?
Because if what is Revealed Concerning God were always adapted to our Comprehension, how could it reach, or with any fitness represent that Nature, which we allow to be Incomprehensible?
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And looking into the bottom of Motives and Pretences, we shall find a Truth well worth our Observing, ( viz. ) That what Men at first call Reason, and afterwards Conscience;
And looking into the bottom of Motives and Pretences, we shall find a Truth well worth our Observing, (viz.) That what Men At First call Reason, and afterwards Conscience;
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From the Considerations already offer'd, I think we may safely conclude, That an humble and ready Faith (Casting down Imaginations, and every thing that exalts it self against the Knowledge of Christ) is the only Expedient both to make and to keep Men Wise.
From the Considerations already offered, I think we may safely conclude, That an humble and ready Faith (Casting down Imaginations, and every thing that exalts it self against the Knowledge of christ) is the only Expedient both to make and to keep Men Wise.
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