A Complete Body of Divinity

SERMON CIX.

FROM the General Consideration of Christ a Exaltation, we pass to take a more distinct Account of it in the several steps. And these are comprised under two heads. They are either those degrees of Triumph, which he is already exalted to; or such, the ••• nifestation whereof is reserved for the Day of Judgment. God hath already highly sifted him up, and will yet, more conspicrously make known his Glory, at the end of the World. The Saints in Heaven see his face in Glory, and are happy in that fight. Believers upon Earth, see him with an eve of faith, and rejoice in it, 1 Pet. 1.8. Whom having not seen, ye love: in whom though n • w ye see him not, yet believing, ye roj • y • e with jor unspeakable and full of glory. But his enemies also must see it. They saw him dead & buried, and that was the last sight they had of him; but they must see him glorified; to their eternal confusion. Rev. 1.7. Behold, he cometh with clouds, and every eye shall see him, and they also which pierced him, and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him: even so Amen.

TO begin wi • h the Glorification which Christ hath already arrived to: It consists in two things, viz. His Resurrection from Death, and his taking possession of the Kingdom of Glory. And we may take an Account of the former of these at present, viz. His Resurrection, which was the first step of his Glory, after he had humbled himself to Death.

THIS Article is a main Pillar of the Christian Faith, and we had need to be well built on it. As the Apostles were appointed to be witnesses of it, ( Act. 1.22.) so they preached of it distinctly, wherever they came. We may than take a brief Account of it, under several heads.

1. THE proper Nature of Christ's Resurrection consists in two things: There is something Internal, viz. the re • union of his separated Soul and Body: And there is something External, viz. His coming out of his Grave after his re union. Both of which are pointed at in the words used in the New-Testament to express it. That in Mar. 28.6. He is risen. 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 , signifies both to wake out o • sleep and rise out of bed. And when Christ's Soul came into his body, he then awaked, and when he left his Sepulcher, he then left his bed. It is also expressed by 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 which signifies a rising from a fall, and standing up again. Christ fell down into the dust when he died, and rose and stood up again when he arose. The former of these was properly his Resurrection, and the latter the manifestation of it.

II. THE Subjects of this Resurrection may be distinctly considered, in two Conclusions,

• 1. THE prover subject of this Resurrection, was the whole Human Nature of Christ. Christ is said to die, and to rise again. 1 Cor. 15.14, 15. It is ascribed to his Person in respect of his human Nature; for the divine Nature is not in itself capable either of Humiliation or Exaltation. But the Person was in regard of one of his Natures. But it may be attributed to his whole human Nature, in as much, as both his Soul and Body were sharers in it. His whole Humanity fell by Death, in some sense, his Soul therefore arose by a deliverance from the state of separation, by its re-union, and his Body by a restauration to life, and being brought out of his grave.
• 2. THAT hence, the Resurrection is ascribed to his Body, to his Soul, and to his Person, in divers respects,
  • 1. TO his Body as that which was most properly raised. For that only fell down; whiles his Soul went upward to Paradise, Luk. 23.43. That only lay in the grave, his Soul ascended to Heaven. That only was wholly deprived of all its operations, his Soul, as it went into, so it was actively happy in the presence of God. Now in respect to his Body,

    (1.) IT was the same Body that fell, which was raised again. Mat. 28.5, 6. And the angel answered and said unto the women, Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified. He is not here: for he is risen, as he said: come see the place where the Lord lay. He did not assume another to be exalted in, but the same in which he was humbled.

    (2.) HIS reasonable Soul came from Heaven into the Sepulcher, where his Body lay, & was there re-united to it. Psal. 16.10. For thou wilt not leave my soul in hell. Which must be understood of the state of separation.

    (3.) HIS animal Spirits, which had been dissipated by Death, were now again restored, and so made way for the re union, and helped to knit his Soul & Body together. On which account he is said to be revived, Rom. 14.9. For to this end Christ both died, and rose, and revived, that he might be Lord both of the dead & living.

    (4) HIS Senses were also restored to his Body. The Organs of them had been deprived of their power, by his Death, and were for the present useless, but now his eyes, ears, and other instruments of sense were made again to receive their power of operation, and so sitted every way to serve his reasonable Soul, according to the natural use of them: and they were the evident proofs of his being again alive. Act. 1.3.

    (5.) AND now the prison doors were opened, and he came out of his Grave. His Body was now raised a glorious Body, Phil. 3.21.1. Cor. 15.43. Tho' the glorious splendor of it, was for a while veiled, while he saw meet, for a few days to converse with his Disciples, before his Ascension, that they might be so capable of such communion with him.

  • 2. IN regard of his Soul. It is more improperly said to rise, but yet there is 〈◊〉 of a Resurrection to be observed in it.

    (1.) IT came into, and was re united to 〈◊〉 Body, after separation: Else his Body 〈◊〉 not have risen. Its Death was proc •• d • y that separation, and therefore its 〈◊〉 on must be made by such a re-union.

    (2.) HEREBY it was delivered from th ••• paration, which was contrary to the 〈◊〉 inclination of it; and was made again 〈◊〉 joy the desired and delightful company of it The separate Soul being but part of the •• , is not at rest till it be restored to the 〈◊〉 part, for which it was made, and so 〈◊〉 goes a sort of Death whiles separate.

    (3.) IT came out of the Sepulcher with 〈◊〉 in his Body, and so it joined with it in the second part of his Resurrection. For it 〈◊〉 hereby that his Body was enabled to 〈◊〉 forth, which before was altogether 〈◊〉

    (4.) IT now enjoyed its ancient & fall 〈◊〉 of exercising its operations upon and 〈…〉 glorious Body. It had again the use 〈◊〉 his senses and members, which had 〈…〉 the while suspended.

    (5.) BOTH together took possession of the Glory which he had merited with b • th 〈…〉 Humiliation. Psal. 16.9, 10, 11. His •••• torial Glory was not completed, till 〈…〉 thus raised.

  • 3. AS to his Person. It is certain, these who rose was Christ, the Second Perso • 〈◊〉 Sacred Trinity. And although, as was 〈◊〉 hinted, the divine Nature, being unch ••• ble, could neither die, nor rise, yet, as •• thclarative glory of his divine Nature, ••• fore obscured in the days of his 〈…〉 began to beam our, and shine forth 〈◊〉 in his Resurrection. Hence that, 〈◊〉 And declared to be the Son of God 〈…〉 according to the Spirit of holiness, by 〈◊〉 •• rection from the dead. And in this 〈◊〉 was a declarative begetting of him, 〈◊〉 33. God hath fulfilled the same unto 〈◊〉 children, in that he hath raised up Jesus 〈◊〉 as it is written in the second Psalm, 〈◊〉 my son, this day have I begotten thee. 〈◊〉 as Me • lator was now glorified, in 〈◊〉 of the promise made to him in the 〈◊〉 of Redemption.

III. THAT Christ did really Ri •••• . The Scripture gives abundant 〈◊〉 thereunto. And it being a matter 〈◊〉 sufficient witness is a good evidence 〈◊〉 to entertain it: though there is as •• 〈◊〉 reason to make it appear. Here the •• 〈◊〉 that Scripture saith it,

• 1. THERE is the Testimony of 〈…〉 Angels for it, Mat. 28.5, 6. Luk. 24.4 • 〈◊〉 this is enough both for number and ••• cation.
• 2. THE Testimony of the Women 〈◊〉 to the Sepulcher, where they saw & 〈◊〉 him. Mat. 28.9.
• 3. THE divers Apparitions which 〈…〉 to his Disciples. He was first and last, 〈◊〉 his Ascension, seen of at least five 〈◊〉 p •• sions, who had his Resurrection confirmed • s them by many sensible & convincing proofs of 〈◊〉 , 1 Cor. 15.5, 6, 7, 8.
• 4. ESPECIALLY the Testimony of the Ap •• ies: Who because they were to carry this ••• h, and witness it to the World, had frequent communion with him at times, for j • ry days after he was risen, Act. 1.3 during which time, they saw & handled the word of •• e, 1 Job. 1.1, 2. He gave their senses the proof of it. Hence that, Luk. 24.39, 40. Be •••• my bands & my feet, that it is I myself; ••• dle • e, and see for a spirit hath not flesh and ••• es, as ye set me have. Joh. 20.27. Then 〈◊〉 be to To • mas, Reach hither thy finger, and 〈◊〉 my hands; and reach hither thy band, and 〈◊〉 it into my side, and be not faithless, but ••••• ing.
• 5. NAY the very nature of the thing saith, 〈◊〉 he must needs be risen. For, being the 〈◊〉 God, and having by his Death satisfied 〈…〉 , and answered all the demands of j •• tice, on the score of his redeemed, it was •••• sible that the Grave should hold him. Wh •• therefore he had lain in it long enough 〈◊〉 confirm the reality of his being dead, there was no reason for his lying any longer there. So he argues, Act. 2.24. Whom God hath 〈◊〉 up, having loosed the pains of death: be ••• se it was not po ••• ble that he should be holden of it.

IV. IF it be demanded, by what Virtue he use, 〈◊〉 who was the Efficient of his Resurrections it may be replied, that it was not by any the adventitious power, but he Himself was 〈◊〉 •• there of his own Rising. This he clearly 〈◊〉 beforehand, Joh. 2 19. & 10.17, 18. 〈…〉 , the work is ascribed to God the 〈◊〉 Act. 2.24. For he, being the Creditor, 〈…〉 fully satisfied, in the discharge of 〈…〉 , which his Son undertook to pay, 〈…〉 Angel, as an Officer, to discharge him 〈◊〉 ••• rious state and majesty. This also is 〈◊〉 to the Spirit, Rom. 8 11. Because he 〈…〉 by a glorious and almighty power, 〈◊〉 did not so much appear in raising his 〈◊〉 from the Grave, though nothing short of ••••• pot ••• y was able to do that, as in loosing 〈◊〉 ••• nds of the second Death which were 〈◊〉 him in his state of Humiliation, and •••• ing him from the sentence of the law by which he was condemned to die as 〈◊〉 •• ety, and representative. And indeed •••• ng a divine work, belongs to the Deity, 〈◊〉 •• sequently to the Trinity. But yet 〈◊〉 ascribes it to himself, because his di ••••• ture exerted itself mightily in his •••• ction. As it was by a voluntary act 〈…〉 own, that he laid down his life, else 〈◊〉 could have taken it from him; so, by 〈◊〉 of mighty power, he took it up again. 〈◊〉 itself could not stand against him, but 〈◊〉 a Conqueror over it, and so its 〈◊〉 Person fulfilled that threatening, Hos 13.3 • , I will ransom them from the power of the 〈◊〉 : I will redeem them from death: O • word will be thy plagues; O grave, I will be thy destruction; repentance shall be hid from mine eyes. The Angels which were present at it, were not instruments of it, but only waited on him their Lord, and did him honors in this passage of his Exaltation.

V. AS to the Time of Christ's Resurrection, it was on the Third Day from his Death and Burial. Luk 24.7. This was foretold by Christ himself, Joh. 2.19. Mat. 16.21. And be raised again the third day. And in this regard he proposed Jonas to be a type of him, Mat. 12.39, 40. He continued thus long in a state of Death, that it might appear that he was verily dead; and it was no longer, that his Disciples might not faint in their spirits, and he discouraging about the corrupting of his Body, it being foretold that it should not see corruption, Psal. 16.10. It is true, he lay not three whole days, but some part of three distinct days: for he was buried on the fixth day before Sun-set, and he lay the whole seventh day, and the night of the first day; reckoning the day to being with the evening: for if we begin it with the morning, there is no part of the third day in the account: and the beginning of it at midnight is merely Astronomical, and never came into a Theological computation.

VI. IT was requisite that Christ should rise from the Dead. As he must die, so he must rise and live. And there are several things wherein this appears necessary,

• 1. HE rose again to give a proof & declaration, that he was the Son of God. Rom. 1.4. During his Humiliation, and especially in his Death, his Divinity was clouded under a veil of manifold infirmities attending his humanity; but in and by his Resurrection, he made proof of his eternal Power & Godhead. It is true indeed, others have been raised, and shortly all shall rise; and therefore merely to be made to rise, is not a proof of the divinity of the subject: but yet to raise himself up by his own power, was a sufficient proof for this. He gave evidence of it by raising others in his own name; he must needs do so in raising himself, this being a divine prerogative. But there was a further evidence of his Deity in his Resurrection, for he died by the Law and Justice of God, sentenced as our Surety to suffer the whole weight of the wrath of God; and for him to get out from this sentence, and after he had born it, to live again, having fulfilled all the demands of Justice upon him, proves him to be God. The weight of that wrath would have broken the whole Creation, and they could never have evaded.
• 2. HENCE, herein he gave a testimony of his perfect Victory over Death, and our spiritual Enemies. It was not enough that Christ should die for us, but in dying he must be a Conqueror, else his Death could not profit us. Yea, he suffered, that by it he might overcome. Heb. 2.14. That through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is the devil. And this comes to be known and proved by his Resurrection Paul therefore, after he had by manifold argument proved him to be risen, and shewn what was the glorious efficacy of it, determines all in that triumph, 1 Cor. 15.57. But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory, through our Lord Jesus Christ. It is true, Christ conquered all on his Cross; there the battle was fought, and the victory gained: But this victory increased into a triumph in his Resurrection. Now all his enamies fled, and quitted the field. Psal 68.1. Let God arise, let his enmies be scattered: let them also that hate him flee before him. He made a conquest of Death itself, and it lay dead at this feet. Christ had never been known to be a Conqueror, but for this. If Death had detained him her Captive, where had been his Victory?
• 3. HE rose for our Justification. Rom. 14.25. As he died to pay our debt, so he rose again that he might acquit or absolve us from it. Christ's Resurrection was both his and our discharge: His, as he stood our Surety bound for us, and ours, as those for whom he was so. As Christ, by dying, was made virtually, so by rifing he becomes actually the object of our justifying faith. He became a sufficient object of faith, not merely by undertaking to respond for us, but by actually finishing transgressions on our account, in paying our whole debt. If he had not satisfied for us, we could not in Justice have been pardoned. If he had not fully reconciled us to God, and completely answered the Law's demands, we could not have been saved. And if he had continued dead, it would have argued the continued of the payment; which would have discovered the imperfection of it, and consequently its invalidity. Christ could not rise till Justice acquitted him. His bond was in for us, and it must be taken up, and that by a full payment of it: But when he arose, this bond was returned to him, and that cancelled. So that here is ground for our Justification. Our debt is paid, and our bonds taken up. It is therefore his Resurrection that stands of force against all that can be laid to our charge, Rom. 8.34. This therefore is one argument by which the Apostle proves that he must needs be risen, 1 Cor. 15.17. And if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain, ye are yet in your sins.
• 4. IT was to put him into a fit condition for the completing of what remained to be done in the execution of his Offices. We before observed, that he executes them both in a state of Humiliation and Exaltation. As Priest, he was to satisfy Justice for us, and atterwards to intercede, Heb. 7.25. As a Prophet, here he taught with his Mouth, but there belongs to it, the sending forth of his Spirit, and for this he must go to the Father, Joh. 16.7. As a King, he here commanded his Disciples, and gave them laws, but he must also govern them by his power, and sway the Scepter over the World; and this was eminently accomplished at his Resurrection, Psal. 2.6. &c. compare Act. 13.33. Yea, these 〈◊〉 the glory of a Mediator promised to him 〈◊〉 his Obedience, and it was necessary that is should rise to take possession of it. Luk. 24.2 • Ought not Christ to have suffered these 〈◊〉 , and to enter into his glory?
• 5. HE must rise, that he might be the 〈◊〉 fruits of our Resurrection, both spirited 〈◊〉 bodily. See, 1 Cor. 15.20, 21, 23. Whe •• 〈◊〉 sust sruits, we are not to understand the 〈◊〉 order of time, but only of causality. Th •• that rose at his Death, of whom we 〈◊〉 an account, Mat. 27.52, 57. arose by the 〈◊〉 and influence of his Resurrection, 〈◊〉 is a sure pledge of the Resurrction of 〈◊〉 his members. When the first fruits 〈◊〉 offered to God, under the Law, he 〈…〉 of them, & gave to his People by this 〈◊〉 an assurance of an harvest. Abd the 〈◊〉 proves this, ver. 21. from the order of 〈◊〉 Covenant in which God had set him 〈◊〉 Adam in the first Covenant standing 〈◊〉 procured us to die, so Christ in the new •• venant, being our Surery, hath purcha •••• Resurrection for us, and his Resurrection 〈◊〉 the earnest of ours. In sum, Christ is God, is the efficient; as in our natute sar ••• for our sins, is the meritorious; as rising 〈◊〉 the dead is the ensuring cause of our Resurrection. Hence that, Joh. 14.19. Yes a 〈◊〉 while, and the world seeth me no more: 〈◊〉 see me: because I live, Ye shall live also.

USE. 1. LEARN hence, that it 〈◊〉 all those, that would have a joyful is 〈◊〉 Resurrection at last, to get and secure a 〈◊〉 Christ's Resurrection. There will be a 〈◊〉 rising again of all that die, both 〈◊〉 unjust, but none shall rise in Glory, 〈◊〉 as are under the saving efficacy of the ••• rection of Christ. Others shall only 〈◊〉 receive and everlasting second fall in •••• bottomless pit of never-ending miser 〈◊〉 so long as men are out of Christ, the th ••• of the Resurrection may well be a 〈◊〉 them; and it is that which truly 〈◊〉 Dearth to be a ground of terror; for if 〈◊〉 put an end to the being of men, it 〈◊〉 not have such terror in it, as the confide •• 〈◊〉 that after it comes a dreadful Judge •• 〈◊〉 a Resurrection to Condemnation, put 〈◊〉 To think that I must be restored to an 〈◊〉 ruptible state, on purpose to be si •• 〈◊〉 suffer in eternal torr •• nts, and lie in 〈◊〉 lasting burnings, is a most amazing th ••• This is enough to put us on solemn 〈◊〉 How may we escape this, and be ha •• 〈◊〉 that day? And we have it, lot us 〈◊〉 •• virtue of his Resurrection applied to 〈◊〉 to raise us up from sin, which is down 〈◊〉 life; and then to raise us up to glory 〈◊〉 will be in the last day; which latter 〈◊〉 a dependence on the former. Make 〈…〉 that he rose for our Justification, by 〈◊〉 in him by Faith, so shall we be bo •• 〈◊〉 and glorified by him at that day.

USE. II. LET us labor to get ou • ••• strongthned on, and established by a right 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 of the Resarrection of Christ. Let this satisfy us, that he hath wrought out a 〈◊〉 Redemption. So the Apostle argues. 〈◊〉 7.25. Justice had him in its hands, it 〈◊〉 him to Death, but is hath discharged him. A risen Surety must needs be a sufficient Savior; not can there be any reason after that to question whether the Justice of 〈◊〉 be satisfied. Let it encourage us to 〈…〉 Christ, to perfect all that is wanting. 〈◊〉 being •••• ed for Eternal Life, remembering that be is risen, and exalted for this very 〈◊〉 , to finish what he began in his Death and Merit. And then, let the consideration of 〈◊〉 interest in his Resurrection, help us to triumph over Death and the Grave, remem •••• g, that he is risen, and gone to Heaven as 〈◊〉 sore runner, to take possession in our 〈◊〉 , & make ready for our entertainment: 〈…〉 thearfully follow him, rejoicing in the 〈◊〉 of an happy rising, and being with him 〈…〉

SERMON CX.

WE proceed form the first step of Christ's Exaltation, consisting in his Resur •• tion, to the next, which is, his taking 〈◊〉 of the Kingdom.

THERE were two things which Christ, as of Sarety, was to do for us, viz. To pay our 〈◊〉 by making satisfaction for our offenses; 〈◊〉 purchase our forfeited Inheritance of 〈…〉 . Both of these he fully accom •••• in his state of Humiliation, the one 〈◊〉 passive, the other by his active Obe •••• thus complying with all the demands 〈…〉 Covenant. But to make all this 〈◊〉 us, there was something more to be 〈…〉 him on our account, as out Attorney, 〈…〉 take out an Acquittance upon the 〈◊〉 of the Obligation, and to take 〈◊〉 of the Inheritance which he had 〈◊〉 ; and this was retained for his 〈◊〉 . The former of these he did in 〈◊〉 •••• ection, in which regard, as hath 〈◊〉 o •• erved, he is said to rise for our Justi ••••• the latter he did in taking possession of the Kingdom, which is under our present ••••• ion. And of this there are two 〈◊〉 or degrees, viz. His After s • on up to 〈◊〉 and his Session at the right hand of 〈◊〉 •• d we have them both asserted, Mar. 〈…〉 then after the Lord had spoken unto 〈…〉 received up into heaven, and sat 〈◊〉 band of God. The former of these 〈◊〉 •• nder our present enquiry.

〈…〉 died, so he rose again; as he 〈…〉 the Grave, so he ascended 〈◊〉 ; so that in these points, his 〈◊〉 corresponds with his Humiliation. •• CHING the Ascension of Christ we 〈◊〉 this brief Description of it; Is 〈◊〉 that whereby he left the Faith, as to his Man ••• l; and was carr • ed by virtue of his God head, Into the highest Heavens. Ascenssion in propriety of speech, fignifies a w • tion. from the center towards the circumference; and such was this of Christ. He went away from this Earth, which is supposed to be the Worlds center, in which he was born, and where he abode till he had gone through the whole be finess of his Humiliation, and where also his Resurrection had been accomplished; and he went to Heaven, which is in the Worlds circumference. He went from the Earth which is beneath, to the Heaven which is above, and that not to the lower Heavens, but the highest, which is in Scripture cailed the third Heaven. So we are told, Luk. 24.51. And it came to pass, while be blessed them. he was parted from them, and carried up into heaven. I shall not here curiously Discourse about this Ascension; but only give this account of it in the following Remarks.

1. WE may consider that the Person ascending, was Jesus Christ, God Man, with respect to his Human Nature. That he was God that ascended, the Scripture testifies, Psal. 68.18. which the Apostle applies directly hereto, Eph. 48. Wherefore be saith, When he ascended up on high, be led captivity captive, and gave gists unto men. But, though the divine Nature, which was veiled, and obscured in his stare of Humiliation, so as to be little observed by men, did break forth with radiant beams of Glory, as in his Resurrection, so in his Ascension to Heaven; whence it may improperly be said, as to arise, so to ascend; yet, in propriety of spatch, his Divinity is Omnipresent, and therefore can neither ascend not descend, but it then filled all Heaven, with its glorious manifestations of itself, all the while that his Humanity was in this World disguised under the greatest obscurity. So that the Nature truly and properly ascending was only the Human, for this only was capable of local motion, or going from place to place, being a finite and circumscribed being; and had been doing of the work allotted for it here upon the Earth, which being accomplished, he went away from hence, to the place of his everlasting abode. Extraordinary types & fore runners of this Ascension, were Enoch, in the times of the old World, before the flood; and Eli's afterwards, under the dispensation of the Law, or Mosaical Paedagogy; and the more ordinary and Ceremonial, was the High Priests going once a year into the Holy of Ho • ies, afted that he had offered up Sacrifices without at the brazen Altar. Thus was God pleased to feed the faith of his People beforehand, in this precious Article

2. WE may observe the Time of his Ascension, which was, after he had ••• e all the Work, that he had to do here below. Christ's Resurrection was one step to his Glory, and he was to go to enjoy the fullness of it by his Ascension; But he was not so hasty to go and take his eternal Crown, as to leave anything undone that was necessary before he went. He would not rise from the Grave, till, not only the business of Satisfaction was finished, but he had lest a clear Evidence of his being really dead, that the faith of his People need not be at a loss in this point. So when he did rise, he would not immediately go from the Grave to his Kingdom, but his Churches concern, which brought him into the world to redeem them, kept him forty days out of Heaven, after he arose; which time he spent in confirming his Disciples faith about himself, giving them direction what to do, and how to manage the works of their Ministry, for the gathering in of finful men to him and leaving of his promise of blessing on them. Thus we see, that not only Christ humbled, but also Christ exalted, was full of self-denial for his redeemed's sake. Hence that, Act. 1.3. To whom also he shown himself alive after his passion, by many infallible pro • ss, being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things of the kingdom of God. He adjourned his Coronation so long, because the weakness of his Disciples faith, and the weight of the work, to which he appointed them, called for it, and when this was done, he went to Heaven, to make it appear, that he did not rise to an earthly felicity or kingdom, which good men were led too much away with the opinion of, but an Heavenly, to which he must ascend.

3. THE ter •• of his Ascension from which he went, was in general, the lower World, or the Earth on which he had lived, and when he had done the whole work which his Father had sent him about in purchasing our Redemption. And having nothing more to do there by his bodily presence, he now left it; according to Job. 17.4, 5. But we are also acquainted with the particular place, which he was pleased to make choice of for the manifestation of this his glorious Ascension in; and that was the Mount Oliver, Act. 1.12. It is to be observed, that this was the place where he entted upon the last act of his Humiliation; here was the Garden in which he began his last Sufferings, in his Agnoy, and where Judas with his hand of Ruffians arrested him, Luk. 22.39, &c. And if it be asked, why Christ chose this place rather than any other, for this glorious acto of his? we must acknowledge that where Scripture in silent, we can but conjecture: And yet we are to think, that the naming of this place, is not for nothing. Possibly then it was,

• (1). BECAUSE he had sanctified this place to himself, by frequent Praying in it. This was a place which he had often made use of, for his secret retirement into, for the offering up of his prayer to his Father, Job. 18.2. And to be sure, that pathetical prayer in his agony was here Hither therefore he comes to receive the benefit and returns of his prayer. And God many time answers his Children in the very place, where they have poured our their Souls to him.
• (2) TO make it appear, that his H 〈7 letters〉 was the ground of his Exaltation. That 〈◊〉 he humbled himself to the Death, the ••••• his Father highly exalted him; according 〈◊〉 Phil. 2.7, 8, 9. As here he Suffered, so 〈…〉 ascended into his Glory. How often 〈◊〉 God turn the valley of Ach • r, into a 〈◊〉 of Hope to his own?
• (3.) TO declare that his Humiliation 〈◊〉 Exaltation aimed at one & the same thing. They had one center in which they met: Th •••• to one end, and were both parts of the 〈◊〉 work, viz. the bri • ging about the Salv ••••• of his Chosen, and so to encourage as 〈…〉 with fresh and holy boldness, to an ex •••• and ascended Savior.

4. THE Term to which Christ ascended, 〈◊〉 the highest Heaven. Every motion 〈…〉 terms, and so and this, and by Heaven, 〈◊〉 25.51. is meant this. The Scripture, 〈◊〉 calls the air Heaven, and the fo •• 〈…〉 the fowls of Heaven, by reason of their 〈◊〉 in it. The starry Region hath also this 〈◊〉 Hence we read of the stars of Heaven. 〈◊〉 there is a Heaven above these, which is usually called the Empyrean Heaven, and 〈◊〉 in Scripture styled, the Throne of 〈◊〉 Holiness, the Place of his most glo • i ••• 〈◊〉 pearance, and manifes • ation of himself, 〈◊〉 Place appointed for the eternal ha • i •••• 〈◊〉 the glorified; the Kingdom of which 〈◊〉 Chosen are the appointed heirs. And 〈…〉 now to take possession of it in their 〈◊〉 Hence that, Act. 3.21. Whom the 〈…〉 receive till the restitution of all things, 〈◊〉 not an imaginary or ubiquitary 〈…〉 Christ ascended to, as some have 〈◊〉 dreamed; as though his ascension 〈…〉 a change of state, and not of place, 〈◊〉 to darken, and not to interpret Scrip •••• 〈◊〉 went to a Heaven that is above all 〈…〉 Eph 4.10. Believers have a ma ••••• 〈◊〉 which is appointed for them, and Christ 〈◊〉 before hand to prepare it for them, J •• 〈…〉 It is the house of his Father to which 〈◊〉 gone. The first Adam by his apos •••• 〈◊〉 up the earthly Paradise against 〈…〉 Christ hath by his Redemption ope ••• 〈◊〉 heavenly Paradise for himself and 〈…〉 being the second • am, and more 〈◊〉 than the first, 1 Cor. 15.57. Having 〈◊〉 way answered the Law on our acco ••••• 〈◊〉 must receive the highest reward of all 〈◊〉 only eternal Life, but the most glory ••• 〈◊〉 with all its advantages. For this 〈◊〉 must have his Glory in Heaven and 〈◊〉 the Earth, the Glories of that Pla •• 〈◊〉 transcendently more excellent than any 〈◊〉 in the lower world. And therefore 〈◊〉 and we, must go to Heaven for perfect 〈◊〉 piness, it being there reserved to be 〈◊〉 on all that are made owners of it. 〈◊〉 this reason he is said to be entered into 〈◊〉 itself, as being the Anti •• ype of the 〈◊〉 place into which the high Priest was to 〈◊〉 Heb. 9.24. For Christ is not entered into 〈◊〉 places made with hands, which are the 〈◊〉 the true, but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us.

5. FOR the Evidence of his Ascension, is being a point of Faith, we must fetch it from Scripture testimony, in which there is a record of that which is sufficient to confirm it. His Disciples were faithful and positive eye-witnesses, who saw him go up from them till he was canted our of their sight. And the being Angeds also, certifyed them whither he was gone. Act. 1.9. And when he had spoken these things, while they behold, he was taken up, and a cloud received him out of their sight. He did not permit his enemies to be partakers of this glorious sight: they saw him no more after he was laid in his Grave; but his chosen Disciples, who had been with, and seen him is his bitter Sufferings, saw as much as they were capable of, of this part of his Glory, and were appointed to hear their testimony to the World, as of his being risen, so of his being ascended to Heaven. The Gospel therefore is very distinct and frequent in mentioning this Article. It was prophetically arrested to by the Psalmist, Psal. 68.18. And it is put is as one remarkable piece of the mystery of Godliness. 1 Tim. 3.16.

6. IN the Order of Christ's Ascension, set these two things be remarked,

• (1.) THAT in order of Nature he was the first Man, that ever Ascended into Heaven: is as much as he was the original and pro ••• ity cause of the ascension of all the Elect from the beginning of the World, unto this 〈◊〉 day. So that there was none ever that •••• ted thither, whether in Soul, or with 〈◊〉 Body also, but it was by virtue and 〈◊〉 of his Ascension. The Sin and 〈◊〉 of man had shut up the Holiest of 〈◊〉 against him, and there was no entering for 〈◊〉 thither, it being an undefiled place, and •••• ting of no polluting thing into it; but 〈◊〉 this way for them. So that, but for his Ascension, they had never ascended; for though, he ascended not, till first he died 〈◊〉 case again, which was in the last days, 〈◊〉 was according to the divine Ordination; and God had a respect unto it, in the extending of his favor unto them. He indeed laid the foundation for it in his Satisfaction and Obedience, by which it was purchased, but is was himself the first fruit of it in his 〈◊〉 . Heb. 9.11, 12 But,
• (2.) IN order of Time, all the faithful People of God, that died before his Resurrection and 〈◊〉 , went before him, the Souls of all 〈◊〉 that died in the Lord. Eccl. 12.7. And 〈…〉 no reason to question, but that the 〈◊〉 too, of Enoch & Elias, did ascend thither, 〈◊〉 dwell there, long before his Incarnation. 〈◊〉 the one, it is said that God translated him; 〈◊〉 other that God would take him into 〈◊〉 by a Whirlwind. That passage also 〈◊〉 • noch is observable, in that it was by 〈◊〉 Heb. 11.5. And that was no other 〈◊〉 faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, and at 〈◊〉 virtually, in his Ascension. And we are assured, that the virtue of Christ's Death did extend to Old Testament Believers, so that they obtained pardon, and acceptance with God, and eternal Life, upon the account of it, in as much as God had accepted of it in the Covenant of Sureriship. And Christ may with like reason, and in the same sense be said to be ascended, as he is said to be slain from the foundation of the World: so that be ascended mystically in every of these his Members.

7. AS to the efficient of his Ascension; we observed in the Description, that his Manhood, was carried up by the virtue of his God-head: which is one great difference between his and our Ascension. The Person of Christ consists of two Natures: the more glorious infinitely is his divine, whose place of manifesting itself most eminently, is in Heaven. The original place of his Manhood is this Earth, which was at first made for Adam and his posterity to live upon. In his Humiliation, his God-head, did, as it were condescend to appear in, and support his Humanity, and dwell with it here: His humiliation being ended, it is by his God-head raised up, and carried into Heaven. Which divine efficacy is ascribed to the Father, as well as to the Son. And with respect to the Father it is called his assumption, or reception, 1 Tim. 3.16. Received up into glory. And in respect of the Son it is called his Ascension, Eph. 4.8. When he ascended on high. His Body could not ascend by its own virtue, or inclination, natural; but being a glorified. Body, it went up by virtue of his God-head, which aided his Man-hood in its going up, and exerted a divine power therein. The Angels might, and doubtless did go in company with him, being pressed ever to pay him Service; but he needed none of their assistance or power to help him to his Glory. The same virtue which raised him from the dead, could carry him to his Kingdom, and that was his own, as hath been of served.

8. IF it be asked why, or for what ends did Christ Ascend? We may take notice of many reasons for it, which doubtless he had an bye upon in it, viz.

• (1.) THAT his Human Nature, by which he had merited Glory, and was now prepared for it, might go to the Place where is wes to be possessed. It is certain, his Work was now done, in which he made ready for it; and the appointed place for perfect Glory is not Earth but Heaven; which must be entered into by an Ascension, because the Earth was the place in which he did this Work. This therefore is called his entering into his Glory, Luk. 24.26. i. e. That Glory that he had bought and paid for, and was due to him on the account.
• (2.) THAT be might declare and manifest his Original to be from Heaven. I mean, that he was truly a Divine Person, who had his habitation in Heaven from the beginning, as in the Palace of his Glory, with respect to his Person, though not to his human Nature: That he was not a mere Man, and so could not tarry here, but must go to his home; according to that, in Joh. 3.13. And no man hath ascended up to heaven, but he that came down from heaven, even the Son of man which is in heaven.
• (3.) THAT he might prepare Mansions of Glory for us in his Fathers house. He went to make ready a Place for our welcome and happy Entertainment, when we should go hence. Joh. 14.1, 2, 3. Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Fathers house are many mansions, if it were not so, I would have told you: I go to prepare a place for you. And of I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself, that where I am, there ye may be also. What further preparation was needful, or what further adorning was wanted in that glorious Place, besides what was put upon it in Creation, is hard for us to conjecture; but the Scripture assures us that there was something to be done there, to sit the Place for us, as well as to sit us for the Place: and it is enough for us to consider, that it is wonderfully enhanced by his being there to entertain and make us welcome. And it is certain, that Heaven wanted its most suitable Ornament for his Peoples's happiness, till the Man-Christ came thither.
• (4.) TO take Possession for us in our room, and at our Representative. We know that among Men, when a Purchase is made, Deeds are given, and Payment is secured; there is also a delivery, and entering upon Possession follows, either by the person himself, or by his Attorney for him. This Christ did by Ascending. And therefore in this respect, we are looked upon, to be in him there all ready, Eph. 2.6. And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus.
• (5.) TO send his Spirit, and bestow Gifts on his People, for the calling in of his Chosen, and for the making of his Called meet to be admitted into the Inheritance. Hence that, Joh. 16.7. Nevertheless, I tell you the truth; it is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comsorter will not come unto you: but if I depart, I will send him unto you. And, Eph. 4.8. There is a great deal still to be done for the bringing his Redeemed to Glory, and he is gone thither to take care of it; where he dispenseth from a Throne with all power. Math. 28.18.
• (6.) To give security to the Faith of his People, that they shall Ascend thither in due time. Hence, he is called the first fruits, — 1 Cor. 15.20. He therefore left it as his Legacy, that they should follow him, and be brought in the end to be with him, Joh. 17.24. This is his promise, Joh. 12.26. If any man serve me, let him follow me, and where I am, there shall also my servant be.
• (7.) TO raise up our hearts & affections above the Earth, and set them on longing after Heaven, and Heavenly things. That, because Christ our Beloved is there, we may not comprimize our affections and eed •••• anywhere short of the Heavenly 〈◊〉 . Col. 3. begin. Phil. 3.20.

USE. I. IS Christ Ascended? 〈◊〉 then Corporeal Communion with him 〈◊〉 . Would you meet with him in his 〈◊〉 his Face, hear his Voice, sit down with 〈◊〉 his Table, feed on his Body, and 〈◊〉 Blood; it must be in such a way, 〈◊〉 bring him, who is in Heaven, and 〈…〉 are on Earth, together; and this 〈◊〉 spiritual, and not carnal. The Heaven 〈◊〉 received his Humanity, there to abide 〈◊〉 the Restitution of all things: But he 〈◊〉 by his Spirit, to his House, to his Table 〈◊〉 so applies the saving virtue of his Re ••• tion to our Souls; and we, by right ex •••• our faith, go out to meet him, yea, 〈◊〉 Heaven, and fetch thence the stre ••• 〈◊〉 and comforting virtue, which derive 〈◊〉 Crucifyed Savior, and live upon it 〈◊〉 must then be much in the exercise 〈◊〉 faith, if we would enjoy much of Christ his Ordinances.

USE. II. LEARN hence, not to exp •••• Recompence of Glory here, but to wait 〈◊〉 for it, till we come to Heaven. Christ 〈◊〉 came to purchase a Kingdom for us, 〈◊〉 it had been earthly, he would have 〈◊〉 here, and settled it. It is no earthly 〈◊〉 dice that Christ settleth on his People, 〈◊〉 Heavenly one. God did not lay the ••• tion of our happiness in the first, but 〈◊〉 second Adam. In him we might have 〈◊〉 constant felicity upon Earth, in come ••• with God here, but Christ translater 〈◊〉 see and enjoy God in Heaven. Let 〈◊〉 say with the Apostle, Heb 13.14. 〈◊〉 we have no continuing city, but we 〈…〉 come. Let us not then expect our 〈◊〉 here, but wait for it, till we come, 〈◊〉 is: mean while, be willing to 〈◊〉 him here, that we may reign with him.

USE. III. LET Christ's Ascension 〈◊〉 every true Believer in the Assurance 〈◊〉 shall one day go to Heaven too. Yea, 〈◊〉 Consideration make you reckon you 〈◊〉 to be there already. Remember, Christ 〈◊〉 is there, is your Head, and you 〈◊〉 Members; and if the Head be there. Body shall certainly follow after. He 〈◊〉 never be at reft till he hath gotten every of his Members to be there where he 〈◊〉 consider, that Christ is gone to take 〈◊〉 for you, and in your name: He is 〈◊〉 Mediator to receive the Kingdom, 〈◊〉 you are the Heirs together with him 〈◊〉 Ascension is your security; the Kingdom delivered to him for you. Look them upon Heaven as your own; and let animate you, to bear all afflictions patient to encounter all the conflicts of the courageously; to go through the World, and finish your course with undaunted resolution. That man is out of the reach of harm in this who is sure of possessing Heaven in the 〈◊〉 life. This is the Portion of every Believe.

SERMON CXL.

WE have taken a brief view of the first •• ep of Christ's taking Possession of the •••• dom, by ascending into Heaven. We 〈◊〉 pass over to the second, which is his 〈◊〉 as the Right Hand of God; which is 〈…〉 step of his Exaltation, and that 〈◊〉 he is advanced to, and settled in 〈…〉 Glory. This great and procions 〈◊〉 is felly asserted in the Gospel Mar. 16.1 • . Heb. 10.1 • . and elsewhere.

IN the clearing of this Truth, we may first 〈◊〉 the manner and meaning of the Ex •••••• , and then the nature of the Thing.

1. TOUCHING the manner and meaning of •••• pression, let it be observed, That sitting 〈…〉 Hand of God is an improper and 〈◊〉 •• eech, and not to be understood after 〈◊〉 manner. For as to God, he cannot 〈◊〉 be said to have Hands. in as much as • e is represented • ous as a Spirit, Joh. 4.24. Gol ••• Spirit. And a Spirit hath neither 〈◊〉 bones, nor limbs; and hence he can 〈◊〉 right Hand. And as for the Man 〈◊〉 , it is not for us to think that he spends 〈◊〉 in the posture of a bodily fitting; 〈◊〉 that were the only Site that he is 〈◊〉 the Heavenly Kingdom. We must 〈◊〉 look for a metaphorical & spiritual 〈◊〉 of this. Now a right Hand is in 〈◊〉 attributed to God in dives respects. 〈◊〉 more especially, take notice of two 〈◊〉 Scriptures in which it is used Psal. 〈◊〉 The right hand of the Lord is exalted; 〈◊〉 hand of the Lord doth valiantly. 〈◊〉 it evidently intends the high & lofty 〈◊〉 of himself, or the discoveries of 〈◊〉 glorious power & majesty. In Psal. 〈◊〉 At thy right hand there are pleasures 〈◊〉 more: It signifies the conferting of 〈◊〉 favor and good will. In Deat ••• 〈◊〉 shall open thine hand wide unto him: 〈◊〉 enlarged liberality. And accord ••• •••• en the phrase is used concerning 〈◊〉 sometimes points to the greatest state 〈◊〉 . ••• lie Esth. 1.7. According to the state (or 〈◊〉 king. Sometimes the most intimate 〈◊〉 and communion. As, Gol. 2.9. 〈◊〉 to me and Barnabas the right bands of 〈◊〉 Sitting also, when in Scripture it 〈◊〉 ••• atively, mainly intends two things, 〈◊〉 Confirmation, security, immobility: 〈◊〉 the most fixed posture that a 〈◊〉 put himself in. And so it is used 〈◊〉 Psal. 29.10. The Lord suiteth upon the 〈◊〉 the Lord suiteth king forever. •••• tion or contentment in one's condi •••• person is in motion, till he finds that 〈◊〉 seeks, and his desire is answered, 〈◊〉 he fits down satisfied, having his 〈◊〉 so did the Lord Jesus Christ, Heb. 〈◊〉

• AS to the nature of the thing; we may 〈…〉 up in the following Description. Christ's Session at the Fathers Right 〈◊〉 it the persection of his Exaltation, wherein his Father entertains him with and establisherth him in the highest Glory he is capable of, is his perfect satisfaction. Or It is Christ's Settlement by his Father, on his Media ••• ial Throne. The opening of this Description in the parts of it, may help to give us a short glimpse of this part of Christ's Glorification. Observe then.

1. THE general nature of it. It is the perfection of his Exatration, as it is one step or degree of it, so it is in order the last and highest. His Resurrection and Ascension were but motions in order to this, and leading of him hither. But here be arrived at the perfection of happiness. Compleat happiness consists in the full fruition of God, and resting in that fruition. Christ was but in the way to it, in his rising and ascending; but whee once he came to sit down on the Right Hand of his Father, he was then fully possess of all his Glory. And this is his own peculiar and personal or mediatorial Glory. Believers are said to be joint-heirs with him of the Kingdom. And there is the same glory for kind which they participate with him in. We are not only sharers with him in his Resurrection and Ascension, but we are made to sit together with him in heavenly Places. But he hath attained to a more excellent degree, than all either Angels o • Saints. So Phil. 2.9. Eph. 1.20, 21. Psal. 45 7. There are others that fit at Christ's Right Hand, but it is his alone prerogative to fit at his Father's Right Hand.

2. IN the Consideration of the special nature of it, there are three things obsetvable in it, viz. The Welcome he gave him into Heaven, and the Coronation which he there bestowed upon him, and the Content he takes in it.

1. THE Welcome which his Father gave him, when he entered into the Heavenly Palace. We may safely conclude, that the Man Christ, did no sooner set his feet within the door of that City, but his Father gave him all the tokens and restimonies of his gracious acceptance. He who so often testified of him, when he was here engaged in the great work which he sent him about; that he was his beloved Son, and that he was well pleased in him: now let him know how inconceivably great that Love was, which he entertained in his heart for him, by the most eminent and glorious expressions of it: It being to be an e • e • latting Witness that he had completed his Work, and that it had not failed in his hands. Heaven never had a more joyful Day than this. God the Father meets him at th • threshold of that House, and bestows on him the most endearing embraces, in the arms o • his most glorious Attributes: His Love • ncircl • th • i • m, and breaths itself out in th • most glorious discoveries: He takes him int • his bosom, and grasps him with infinite end • aredness: His Wisdom bequeaths itself, an imparts its precious treasures to him: Hi • Righteousness acknowledgeth him; and H • Power devolves itself upon him; His Majesty and Greatness communicate their dignity and glory to him. All these glorious Attributes met him on his first entrance into the Kingdom, and having been satisfied in, and glorified by him, they presented themselves to him as his portion. And on this account it is that we find such expressions as these in the Scripture, Rev. 5.12. Worthy is the Lamb that was stain, to receive power & riches, and wisdom, and strength & honor, and glory and blessing. Prov. 8.14. Counsel is mine, and sound wisdom: I am understanding, I have strength. Col. 1.19. And 2.9. For in him ••• lleth all the fullness of the God-head holily. The holy Angels also now paid him their homage, and renewed their allegiance to him; fell down and worshipped him. If they did so at his I carnation, when he was born in a very low condition, (Heb. 1.6.) How much more then now?

AND what Joy do we think it was to the redeemed Souls in Paradise; and with what Acclamations may we conceive that they received their King and Savior, when having perfected the whole work of their Redemption, he came to take up his everlasting abode among them? I am sure it is in the sight and enjoyment of Him, that P •• l placed all his felicity, and for a participation wherein he was willing & desirous to be gone, Psal. 1.23.

NOR did God only royally Entertain him, but be also Crowned him. This was Christ's Coronation Day. God the Father now set an immortal Diadem of Glory upon his Head, Heb 2.7, 8, 9. This Crowning of Christ is also a metaphorical expression; and among men there are two things symbolized, by the Crowning of a Person, was Honor & Power. And this was as it were, the double Crown that was set upon the Head of the Lord Jesus Christ.

• (1.) HE had a Crown of Honor, and that Royal or Kingly. His Father exalted him to the highest diguity, Act. 2.36. Therefore let all the house of Israel know essuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have cr • cified, both Lord & Christ. He filled him with all Glory. He glorified his Body with the most eminent beauty and perfection. Hence the glory of our bodies, is in a similitude to his, Phil. 3.21. Who shall change our vile body, that is may be fashioned like unto his glorious body. The Body of Christ is the most beautiful and astonishing visible thing in all Heaven. He also glorified his Soul with all spiritual Ornaments, all the Graces of the Spirit, in a super-transcendent perfection: All his intellectual and moral perfections, were beyond measure, having all fullness, Col. 1.19. For it pleased the Father, that in him should all fullness dwell. He glorified his whole human Nature with a royal influence upon all his Mediatorial Offices. His Priestly; so that he now no more comes into his Father's presence, on his bended knees, with his humble Supplications, Prayers, and Tears, but he most boldly pleads the Cause of 〈◊〉 Redeemed with him. Hob. 9.24. We 〈◊〉 a specimen of it in that intercessory 〈◊〉 of his, Job. 17.24. Father, I will 〈…〉 also whom thou hast given me, be with 〈…〉 I am, that they may behold my glory 〈…〉 hast given me: for thou lovest me 〈…〉 foundation of the world. His Prophet ••• 〈◊〉 opening to him all the treasures 〈◊〉 Counsels, and affording him his Spi ••• 〈◊〉 fullness to pour out upon his People. 〈◊〉 operate with his Messengers, in 〈◊〉 up his Chosen out of the World, 〈…〉 serving them to the end of it. Mat. 〈…〉 And now this great Prophet knows 〈…〉 and hour of the Great Judgment, 〈…〉 Man Christ tells us he did not know 〈◊〉 he was here. And his Kingly; in 〈◊〉 the royal Administration of all the 〈…〉 his whole Kingdom into his Hands, 〈…〉 impowering him to govern all Cro ••• 〈◊〉 the good of his people, Joh. 5.22, 23. 〈◊〉 15.25. And in his whole Person; 〈…〉 honored the Person of Christ, so 〈◊〉 God in our nature is made the Object 〈◊〉 Adoration. Saints and Angels are 〈◊〉 to fall down and adore him, Heb. 〈…〉 5.11, 12. In a word, as there are 〈…〉 Glory in Heaven, so Christ obtains the 〈◊〉 of them, and such as do exceed 〈…〉 beyond any comparison. Angels have 〈◊〉 deal, and glorified Saints have a gre ••• and indeed, so great it is, that 〈◊〉 present are not able thoroughly to 〈◊〉 or fathom it; but Christ, as the, 〈◊〉 Angels, and of his Church, hath a 〈◊〉 dent Glory conferred upon him, ab •• 〈◊〉 weighty crown of honor than 〈…〉 being the first born, and the surpa •• 〈◊〉 belonging to him, Psal. 45.7. 〈…〉 thy God, hath ••• i • ted thee with the 〈◊〉 ••• ness above thy fellows.
• (2.) HE had a Crown of Power, 〈◊〉 pre •• and Sovereign, best word on 〈◊〉 Power in Heaven and Earth was 〈◊〉 him. Mat. 28.18. And this is 〈◊〉 had a Power of Authority, and 〈◊〉 Power of Virtue or Might to exe ••• Authority irresistibly.

  [1.] HE was crowned with great 〈◊〉 large and universal. He is adv •••• the highest Sear and Dignity. 〈◊〉 •• ties and Powers are subjected to 〈◊〉 all things in the whole Creat ••• 〈◊〉 under his fo •• , Eph. 1.22. Col. 2.10. 〈◊〉 is no second Being, though exalted 〈◊〉 so high a Pinacle, that can 〈…〉 equality to him, or an examption 〈◊〉 under his Jurisdiction. He is the ••• tentare: there is written on his 〈…〉 on his thigh, KING OF KING 〈◊〉 LORD OF LORD'S. The Man- 〈◊〉 Christ in his human Nature, is 〈◊〉 ••• nity and Authority to the most glor ••• 〈◊〉 Being, Col. 1.18.1 Cor. 3.22, 23 〈◊〉 Yea, God hath given him absolute 〈◊〉 reign Dominion over all things, to 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Government over them, and that 〈◊〉 Would b • accountable to him, receive 〈◊〉 from him, and be liable to his 〈◊〉 he hath full liberty to do his 〈◊〉 with them, and is under no Obliga •••• 〈◊〉 give them an account of what he so 〈◊〉 •••• ence that, Rev. 1.5. And from Jesus 〈…〉 is the faithful wa • ness, and the first 〈…〉 the dead, and the Prince of the kings 〈◊〉 : unto him that loved us, and 〈…〉 our s • es in his 〈◊〉 blood. He is like 〈…〉 in Phara • h 's house, of whom we 〈◊〉 , •• ccount, Gen. 41.40.44. Psal. 103.21, 22. 〈◊〉 ••• ority is from the Father, and un •••• able.

  [2.] 〈◊〉 was i ••• stead with great Might and 〈◊〉 . God gave him virtue answerable 〈◊〉 •••• ority. Authority without Force, 〈◊〉 grow into Contempt, and be trod •••• by the foot of Pride and Insolency. 〈◊〉 Christ, at his Father's right hand, 〈◊〉 potent and efficacious Power, and it 〈◊〉 itself to the administration of the 〈◊〉 Affair of his Kingdom, in all the res •••• it. He can send the Holy Ghost, and 〈◊〉 forth upon whomsoever he pleaseth. 〈◊〉 26. But the Comforter, which is the 〈◊〉 , whom the Father will seed in my 〈◊〉 •• e can make use of the Di • ine At ••• and employ them as he sees occasion, 〈…〉 . He hath a plenary power over 〈◊〉 co-ercive over evil Angels, and can 〈◊〉 their most impetuous rage, and so tie 〈◊〉 that they can do nothing. He led 〈◊〉 • rive at his Ascension, and now holds 〈◊〉 ••• ins, so that they cannot stir one 〈…〉 beyond his permission. He can 〈◊〉 and sand forth the good Angels, 〈◊〉 neither can, nor will disobey him, 〈◊〉 ever pressed frit his Service, to come 〈◊〉 according to his bidding. He hath 〈◊〉 efficacy over all the World: He 〈◊〉 and keep them all under, and when 〈◊〉 • eth, he can, with his iron Rod, 〈◊〉 •• outest of them, like so many 〈◊〉 Psal. 2.9. His book in their 〈…〉 hold fast the greatest Leviathans, 〈…〉 can when he will, give Dragons 〈…〉 for his People. Yea, he can power •• 〈◊〉 the rebellious hearts of his own 〈◊〉 them in subjection to him, and 〈◊〉 powerfully home to Glory. Psal. 〈◊〉 people shall be willing in the day of 〈◊〉 . Yea, he can conquer to himself a 〈◊〉 of the World, destroy their enmity, 〈◊〉 them to fall down before him, and 〈◊〉 Crowns and Scepters at his feet, and 〈◊〉 to be both Lord, and Christ. This 〈◊〉 ••• ertainment with his Father; and 〈◊〉 ••• shed him forever in his Throne: 〈◊〉 him there, he ratified & confirmed 〈◊〉 and dignity to him. See, Psal. 〈◊〉 • 5.6. He is settled immovably; all 〈◊〉 of earth and hell, though come •••• ust him, cannot disturb of interrupt 〈◊〉 that his Glory which he is now possessed 〈◊〉 •• changeable Glory, as to the essence 〈◊〉

3. AS for the Contentment that Christ taker in his Entertainment, o • the Satisfaction that be s • ads 〈◊〉 it, this is signified to us, in his fitting, his resting, and his rejoicing in it. This was the personal reward which his Father had indented with him, to confer upon him, upon his accomplishment of the great work which he had undertaken. It was that Joy which was set before him, the contemplation, and fore-expectation whereof, bore him up under, and made him to despise all the contradiction and reproach that he met withal in the World, Heb. 12.2, 3. And therefore the fulfilment and fruition of it, could not give him less than full content, for it was in the event, nothing less than was promised, and equalled the expectation he had about it. Nay, it was the greatest glory that he was capable of as Man; it was every way satisfying, he could not have a greater, the Father had not one bigger to bestow on him: and therefore needs must it fulfil his defires. His Father bid him ask what he would, and he should not he denied. See how it is shadowed, Psal. 21.2, &c. And there can be no greater satisfaction, than to have all the cravings of the Soul filled to the full. What shall we say? Christ at the Fathers Right Hand hath all the dignity, power, delight given him that is possible, and settled upon him for perpetual duration; needs therefore must his Joy in it be proportionable, and incomparably transcending all the joys of all the glorified. On this account we have him triumphing in the thoughts of it, then when he was going to his Sufferings, Psal. 16.10, 11. For thou wilt not leave my soul in bell; neither wilt thou suffer thine holy One to see corruption. Thou wilt show me the path of life: in thy presence in fullness of joy, at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore, And to rest in it, as God did in the works of Creation, Heb. 4.10. He hath as much Glory as he asked for. Jer. 17.5. And that was the Glory which he had before the World was. By which we are to understand, that which was agreed on, and sealed up to him in the Covenant of Redemption. And now he hath it in full measure, as the everlasting fruit and reward of his Mediatorial Obedience, in and by which he fulfilled all that Work which he had undertaken.

USE 1. HERE 〈◊〉 have a sufficient Reason why the Church stands through all Ages, and is preserved against all the Rage, and Fury of its most potent 〈◊〉 . It is one of the great Wonders that are to be observed, and carries astonishing admiration in it, to see that this bush hath been so long on a light first, and is not to this day consumed. That this little Flock of sheep hath been kept feeding in a Wilderness of roaring Lions, and ravenous Wolves, and yet is preserved from them by an unseen hand; that all the gates of Hell have combined against the Church, and have not prevailed: but here is that which may satisfy us about, this great Sight: Jesus Christ, the Head and King of his Church, is exalted on the right hand of Power, and sways the Scepter with an Almighty Arm, by which he curbs in the power of the Mighty and countermines the plots of the Wise, stops the career of the Furious, and makes all their Enterprizes to miscarry. Christ in Heaven forgets not his laboring Church on Earth; but is ever employing his interest and authority for the good of his People. Let us then in the midst of all the tumultuous hurries of the World, when Nations are moved, and Kingdoms enter into Combinations against the Church of God, when they say, Come and let us cut them off from being a People, &c. not be amazingly affrighted or dejected; Their Redeemer is mighty, Jesus Christ is upon the Throne, and hath all power in his Hand, and it is for his elect, and he cannot fit still: He is the hope of Israel, and will arise for their help, and not suffer them to be swallowed up.

USE II. IS Christ set down at his Father's right hand? then all the Affairs of the World are ordered with infinite wisdom, and almighty power: and that in the best way, for the advancing of the glory of God, and the welsare of his People. And this is to be inferred, both as to public and personal concerns. Things may look dark and confused to us, and we are ready to think the great Pilot is asleep, and conclude all is gone as • o his interest in this world; and in respect of ourselves, that this and that is against us. But in the mean while, we forget where Christ is, and what he is doing. Let us then recollect ourselves, and believe that he rules over all, and everything that falls out, passes under either his approbation or permission, and he is bringing about his own glorious designs thereby. Let us get the faith of this into lively exercise, and conclude firmly upon it, that neither Devil or Evil of any sort, shall hinder his work or spoil it. The Church shall be no further there oppressed, than to make way to render their deliverance the more glorious and joyful. And for ourselves in particular, there shall no affliction befall us, but what he will fit by, and give it its operation, and though it trouble us, it shall not hurt us, but work for our good, and the latter end shall be peace.

SERMON CXII.

WE are on the Contemplation of Christ's Exaltation. We have viewed him in his Resurrection, Ascension, and left him Sitting at his Fathers Right Hand, in Possession of the greatest fullness of incompreheasible Glory. The peculiar Employment that he there pursues, is his precious Intercession for us: Of which many Divines treat here. But we have already taken a brief account of it, under his Priestly Office. But th •• 〈◊〉 piece of his Glorious Exaltation yet 〈◊〉 and in which he shall appear at the 〈◊〉 The Man-Christ is already made 〈◊〉 happy. The despised Jesus, is cr •••• 〈◊〉 immense Glory: But it is a G •••• 〈◊〉 from the eyes of the World; it is 〈◊〉 by earthly men, and there are 〈…〉 here that believe i • . Yet the •• is 〈◊〉 coming when it shall be rendered con •••• and represented in the open view of 〈◊〉 and Men. Yea, those that hated 〈◊〉 said, This man shall not reign ever us, 〈◊〉 him in his Majesty to their eternal 〈◊〉 Rev. 1.7. Behold, he cometh with • spab • every eye shall see him, 〈◊〉 they 〈◊〉 pierced him. Now the Glory which 〈◊〉 then appear in, is his Execution of 〈◊〉 upon all the World of reasonable 〈◊〉 the greatest royalty. This we have 〈◊〉 fully asserted in the holy Scrip •••• may take a brief account of in this, 〈◊〉 shall not here treat of the whole 〈◊〉 the last and general Judgment, 〈…〉 it for its place afterwards: But 〈◊〉 ••• der of it, as it refers to the Per ••• 〈◊〉 Judge, and so is one emi • cat piece • f 〈◊〉 Exaltation. Jesus Christ, after 〈…〉 complished his great business upon 〈◊〉 this lower World for a season, as 〈…〉 mane presence, when he ascended 〈◊〉 ••• ven, and took possession of the 〈◊〉 But he shall leave Heaven, at to 〈◊〉 presence, for a while, at the last 〈◊〉 return back into this lower Wor •• 〈◊〉 hath accomplished the great Ju ••• 〈◊〉 the clearing of this Article, let •••• ing Conclusions suffice.

1. THAT there shall be a Day of 〈◊〉 A season wherein all mankind that 〈◊〉 or shall ever be in the World, shall be 〈◊〉 an Account, and made to appear upon 〈◊〉 receive their Recompence. I shall 〈◊〉 here at present. It is one of the 〈◊〉 the Christian Faith, fully affected 〈◊〉 Writ, upon which this Faith is 〈◊〉 Eccl. 12.14. For God shall •• ing every 〈◊〉 judgment, with every secret thing, 〈◊〉 good, or whether it be evil. Psal. 96. 〈◊〉 the Lord; for he cometh to judge the 〈◊〉 righteousness shall be judge the world people with equity. Rom. 14.10. F •• •• ll appear before the judgments s •• . 〈◊〉 And elsewhere abundantly. And 〈◊〉 festation of the glorious Attri ••• 〈◊〉 Justice calls for it, that it may 〈◊〉 appear to all, that there is a right 〈◊〉 who will do righteousness. It is 〈◊〉 of Parience, Long-suffering, and 〈◊〉 and so there is a promiscuous 〈◊〉 of visible Providences. All thi ••• 〈◊〉 alike to all, Eccl. 9. •• gin. The 〈◊〉 unpunished, accoring to hu •• an • 〈◊〉 and the goldy suffer many things 〈◊〉 from them, and are not 〈…〉 The World is quite out of order, 〈◊〉 reasonable Creatures in it: And 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 suffers it so to be. But therefore 〈◊〉 ••• st be a Day wherein God will set 〈…〉 to rights, and give to everyone •••• ing to their deservings. He who reads 〈◊〉 ••• rks, Eccl. 7.15. There is a just man •••• er • in his righteousness, and there is 〈◊〉 m • n that prelongeth his life in his 〈◊〉 •• uss. And Ch. 8.14. There is a vanity 〈◊〉 done upon the earth, that there be just 〈◊〉 whom it happeneth according to the 〈◊〉 of the wicked; I said this also is vanity. • pan • remembers, that God is not only 〈◊〉 but Governor too of the World, 〈◊〉 ••• ds from such premises infer this 〈◊〉 , that there must be a Day of 〈◊〉 .

2. TIM main thing to be observed, is that 〈◊〉 Christ shall be Judge in that Great Day. 〈…〉 shall be put into his hand, and 〈◊〉 sway it; and there shall be an 〈◊〉 confluence and appearance of all 〈◊〉 his Judgment Seat, 2 Cor. 5.10. For 〈◊〉 all appear before the judgment seat of 〈◊〉 this everyone may receive the things 〈◊〉 the body, according to that he hath done, 〈◊〉 it be good or bod. And he shall fit 〈◊〉 not only as he is God, but as he is 〈◊〉 Mediator, It belongs to his Medi ••• Kingdom, and hereupon the Scripture 〈◊〉 •• phasis upon his Judging as Man, 〈◊〉 17.31. Because he hath app • imod a day in 〈◊〉 be will judge the world in righteous ••• y that men whom he hath ordained, whereof 〈◊〉 •• ven assurance unto all men, in that be 〈◊〉 him from the dead. Joh. 3.27. And 〈◊〉 him authority to execute judgment •••• se be is the Son of man. And if it •••• ed, how Christ co • eth to be Judge 〈◊〉 I answer, it is by a delegate power, 〈◊〉 to him by his Father, and this as 〈◊〉 reward that was promised to him 〈…〉 of Redemption. This was one 〈◊〉 joy that was set before him, Heb. 〈◊〉 was an Article in the Agreement 〈◊〉 between him and his Father in 〈◊〉 of Eternity; one of the great rewards 〈◊〉 pr • mised to him, on condition of 〈◊〉 ••• king and accomplishing that great 〈◊〉 •• tisfaction to Divine Justice. God 〈◊〉 ••• lie promise him a relative reward, 〈◊〉 should being back a great number 〈◊〉 ••• ed mankind to Glory; but a perso ••• 〈◊〉 , which he himself should re •••• and this was one part of it. Psal. 2. 〈◊〉 •• at God hath a divine right and 〈◊〉 •• ve in judging the World none dare 〈◊〉 •• ombe of, but such as will not 〈◊〉 call his Being in question. And 〈◊〉 Christ as God hath an original and, 〈◊〉 • ight to be Judge; and as Man, and 〈…〉 station, so his Father hath 〈◊〉 him in his Office, and by Com •••• over this • ffeit to his manage 〈◊〉 5.2 • . For the Father judge • th no 〈◊〉 hath •••• itued all judgment to the 〈◊〉 , he hath done it, so to put upon 〈…〉 of a Redeemer, ver. 23. That all men should honor the Son, even as they honor the Father. He that bonoureth not the Son, he toureth n • t the Father which sent him. And what higher declarative Glory could the Man Christ be exalted to, than to have an elevated Throne pitched for him, and all the Heavenly Host his Attendants, whiles he calls forth, and makes all men and devils appear at his Tribunal, and receive their final doom from his mouth?

3. THE stately Majesty, and exalted Glory of Christ in this Affair, will appear in the management of the affair itself by him, which may here be briefly glanced at, so far as it may set forth the spleadid exaltation of his in it, in a few things.

• 1. THE Time when it shall be. There is an appointed time, a day f • x • and constituted for it, Act. 17.31. Now, things done by appointment, are intended to be done with the greatest solemnity, especially if decreed upon long before hand; such is this Judgment. It is one of God's ancient decrees; E ••• h the seventh from Adam, prophes •• d of it, Jude 14, 15. When the time shall be, o • how many months and years shall pass, before the Judge of the World, shall come to render rewards to men, is not given to us mortals to understand, but kept as a secret in God's own breast, Mark 13.32. Only thus much in general we may know of it, viz. that it will not be long before that day shall come; they are the last days, and the winding up of time that we live in. There are yet some prophesies to be fulfilled, some predictions to be accomplished, some of God's Elect unborn, that are yet to be called, and the World stands in its old posture for the present, o •• these accounts. When therefore these things shall be done (and God will wind up things a • p • ce towards the close of time) then will the Lord Jesus Christ come to Judgment; and mean while, it is not for us anxiously to inquire into times and seasons, but to use utmost and speedy endeavors, to get ready for the terrible day, that it may not steal upon us • n •••• d for, or sinned us unprepared. This is Christ's own advice, Mat. 24.44.
• 2. THE Place in which it shall be acted. This also is a Circumstance of Christ's Glory at that day. And, though it would be too hold pres •• mption for us, to state any individual place for it, as some have attempted, yet, in general, it shall be in this lower World. Hence the Lord is said to come to judge, Psal. 96. ult. And the Apostle t • lls us that he shall be revealed from Heaven, 2 Thes. 1.7. And no doubt but that it w • ll be a most glorious and majestical appearance, when Christ shall come in the state and equipage of a Judge. It was a stately Ascension that he had, it daz •• d the eyes of the beholders: And the Angel tells us, that he shall come again in like manner, Act. 1.11. The prison in which the wicked are shut up, for the Judgment, is here below; and the Prison is • ont not to be far from the Judgment Sear. Their Bodies are kept in the Grave, and their Souls are in the hands of Satan, whose Kingdom is here below: And it is a certain truth, that neither Devils nor wicked Men shall come into Heaven to be judged there: That holy place shall never be polluted with their entertainment for one moment of time, Rev. 21.27. And there shall in no wise enter into it anything that desileth, neither whatsoever worketh abomination, or maketh a lie: but they which are written in the Lambs book of life. Hence it must be somewhere here below. Some have thought it will be in the Air, from 1 Thes. 4.17. Then we which are alive, and remain, shall be caught up together with them in the clonds to meet the Lord in the air. But it seems more probable, that that Scripture speaks of the Saints meeting of Christ there, and returning with him to the Judgment; who shall be thus signally distinguished from the wicked. Others therefore reckon that it will be on the Earth; and so that, Job. 19.25. For I know that my redeemer liveth, and that he shall stand at the latter day upon the earth: may savor is •• hough it firstly intends his Incarnation, and engagement in the work of Redemption. And thus will the place of Sinning be the place of Judgment; and where Christ himself was once judged, he shall himself judge his Judges. For the particular Place, as it is uncertain, so it is needless to be sought after. That in Jo •• 3.12. doth not prove that it must be in the Valley of Jehoshaphat; and those that gather it from thence mistake the prophecy of a particular Judgment, for the general one.
• 3. THE stately Preparation that shall he made for it, or the glorious manner in which Christ shall come, and appear. For it is the day of his appearing, 2 Tim. 4.1 • . And the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge •• the quick and the dead us his appearing and his kingdom: And the word fig • i • ies a bright, clean, and glorious appearing. He shall come in his Glory. His first coming was in all humility & meanness, in the form of a Servant, without all beauty or comeliness; but it shall not be so when he comes again: All the splendor which he hath at his Fathers Right Hand, shall be shewn at that day; Math. 16.27. For the son of man shall come in the glory of his Father, with his angels: and then be shall reward every man according to his works. And there are these things in special that shall make it amazingly stately.

  1. THE Forerunners of his coming to Judgment: which are principally two.

  • (1). THE Sigh of the Son of Man which shall appour in Heaven. Math. 25.30. What in particular this sign shall be, since the Seripture hath nowhere declared, men do but conjecture: but this is out of question, it shall be an amazing thing, which shall he conspicuous to all men, and shall astonish and terrify the ungodly. •• ib. And to those that wait for his appearance, is shall be comfortable.
  • (2.) THE Voice of the Arch-angel 〈◊〉 of the last Trumpet. Which shall 〈◊〉 panied with almighty power, 〈◊〉 awaken the dead Bodies out of 〈…〉 chres, change the Living in a mu •• 〈◊〉 collect all the number of those that 〈◊〉 Judged into a readiness for his 〈◊〉 1 Cor. 15.52.1 Thes. 4.16. And 〈◊〉 thing it shall be. The Spirit of God 〈◊〉 to it, when he represents the engod •• 〈◊〉 such an horror, Rev. 16.14, 15.

  2. THE Royal Retinue that shall. 〈◊〉 and wait upon him in his coming. 〈◊〉 have a vast and innumerable train 〈…〉 Heavenly Inhabitants, that shall 〈…〉 with him, and attend his holy plea •• 〈◊〉 7.10. A fiery stream issued, and came 〈◊〉 before him: thousand thousands 〈…〉 him, and tea thousand times • en thous •• 〈◊〉 before him; the judgment was set; 〈…〉 were opened. 2 Thes. 1.7. When the 〈◊〉 shall be revealed from be •••• w •• h 〈…〉 Angels. That company of Angels 〈◊〉 he innumerable, Heb. 〈◊〉 . 22. He •• 〈◊〉 for a while, be lest empty of 〈◊〉 who shall give their attendence 〈…〉 their respects to this great Judge 〈◊〉 His Saints also, and his red • e ••• 〈◊〉 dress up for the stately Solemnity, 〈◊〉 to meet him in his •• y, and joy 〈◊〉 knowledge him, in his coming to 〈◊〉 their Redemption. 1 Thes 〈◊〉 17.

  3. He shall sit down upon a Th ••• 〈◊〉 for him, in the greatest state and 〈…〉 7.9. I beheld till the •• ones were 〈…〉 and the ancient of days did fit, whis •• 〈◊〉 was white as snow, and the heir of 〈…〉 pure wool, his throne was like the •• ry 〈◊〉 his wheels as burning f •••• These indeed are allusive expression 〈◊〉 to be strained, and therefore how 〈◊〉 be in partioular, or in what manner 〈◊〉 Christ shall place himself or that 〈◊〉 for our curious determinering; 〈…〉 God doth in the Scripture, shadow 〈◊〉 to us, by things which among mon 〈◊〉 most pompons, and carry the gre •• 〈◊〉 and terror with them; and at le ••• 〈◊〉 much, that the Glory of it is 〈◊〉 and that it can be represented to 〈◊〉 dark shadows, and exceeding • a •• 〈◊〉 blances.

  4. THE Subject that it is be Judge • 〈◊〉 . This also is a wonderful Circu •••• 〈◊〉 Exaltation, and will reader his Gl ••• 〈◊〉 parable. And this appears in the •••••• tion bo •• of the quantity 〈◊〉 quality 〈◊〉 For, they shall not be a sew, but an • 〈◊〉 able Companys. Not only • he 〈…〉 temptib • e ones in the World, 〈◊〉 were exalted to the highest dig •• 〈◊〉 men, and were in this World 〈…〉 who s ••• ned to acknow •••• any 〈◊〉 or any whom they should be 〈◊〉 auto. This is alluded to, Rev. 6. 〈◊〉 Devils also shall then be then to apped 〈◊〉 they are now prisoners in chains re •••• 〈◊〉 Day, 2 Pet. 2.4. Abortives, that died in 〈◊〉 W • ith, Infants that departed as soon at 〈…〉 the light, all of all Ages, States and 〈◊〉 , Rev. 20.12. These shall not only be ••••• dibly, when the Voice shall be heard 〈…〉 and of Heaven to the other, Arise ye 〈◊〉 come to Judgment, Joh. 5.28. but they 〈◊〉 •• de to appear personally. Then 〈◊〉 the places wherein they had been 〈◊〉 reserved, freely resign them up at the 〈◊〉 s • mmons, Rev. 20 13, &c. Yea, Christ 〈◊〉 will then employ his mighty Angels 〈◊〉 of them together, and they shall 〈◊〉 the whole Earth, and fetch them all 〈…〉 24.31. Chap. 13.40, 41. They shall 〈◊〉 and be made to acknowledge the ••••• acy of the Judge, bow before him, and 〈…〉 their bend at his har. Then shall be 〈◊〉 to be exalted far above Principalities 〈◊〉 •• wers.

  5. THE manner of the Process shall also he 〈◊〉 gr •• tist state, and wonderfully illustrate the 〈◊〉 of Christ. He then comes to wind 〈…〉 great work of special Govern •••• which had been managed from the 〈◊〉 , and to settle the determinations of it •••••• ity. Hereupon the Subjects of it are 〈◊〉 ••• etive their due & just recompenses, 〈◊〉 to the established Tenour of that •••••• ent. And the great Glory of Christ 〈◊〉 .

  • 〈◊〉 the Trial itself. As all Me •• ct De ••••• be placed before his Tribunal; so 〈◊〉 glorious Supremacy over them be 〈◊〉 , in that he will call them forth 〈◊〉 ••• tity, make them stand forth, and 〈◊〉 his Jurisdiction, answer to their 〈◊〉 hold up their Hands, and be Tried 〈◊〉 , according to the stated rule of ••••• nt. Then will their Indictment be 〈◊〉 all that is to be laid to their Charge 〈◊〉 pl •• ded against them, and all that is 〈◊〉 for them; all that they have done 〈◊〉 , 2 Cor. 〈◊〉 . 10. Every secret thing, 〈◊〉 . Every word and every thought: •••••• gs shall be examined & evidenced. 〈◊〉 shall be examined & evidenced. 〈◊〉 shall then be opened, Rev. 20.12. 〈◊〉 Providence, and the book of Cons ••• 〈◊〉 these shall be compared with the 〈◊〉 Law; and by these shall all things 〈◊〉 ••• ed & laid open to the conviction 〈◊〉 • ld, and the silencing of all cavils 〈◊〉 .
  • 〈◊〉 Sentence. Then will he precede 〈◊〉 greares;t Authority, to pass the • en ••• 〈◊〉 all, according to the evidence of 〈◊〉 . And our Savior himself hath 〈◊〉 account of a two sold Sentence, that 〈◊〉 pass from him, Mat. 25.54, 41. Then 〈◊〉 •• ing say unto them on his right hand, 〈◊〉 •• essed of my Father, inherit the kingdom 〈◊〉 •• ot you from the foundation of the world. 〈◊〉 he say also unto the • on the lese hand, 〈…〉 me ye cursed, into everlasting Fire, 〈◊〉 for the devil & his angels. And when 〈◊〉 hath th •• declared it, he will never 〈◊〉 •• om it, nor shall there be any liberty of an Appeal. This is the Supreme Court, and he is the Sovereign Judge; nor can there be either a Revlew or Writ of Error entered, all things being now determined for ETERNITY. And how exalted and One will Christ then appear to be?

  6. THE issues also and consequents of this Judgment are glorious. The Lord Jesus Chrisf, having with greatest Authority put an end to the Affair, shall now again return to his former Sear of Eternal Glory, accompanied with the same Retinue of Angels, and all those his Redeemed ones, whom he had, in that great Assembly, openly acquitted, & ad judged to evers lasting Glory, whom he shall carry home with him to his Eternal Palace, and make them to sit down with him upon incorruptible Thrones, and dwell together with him forever in his Kingdom, there to enjoy those inconceivable Delights, which were fore prepared for them, 1 Thes. 4.17. And so shall we ever be with the Lord. Then shall the wicked, whom he had doomed to end less Torments, be left behind in the place of fire, to receive the execution of the fearful Sentence before past upon them; and suffer in that place which was of old ordained for them, where those flames of everlasting barnings shall be kindled upon them, which shall destroy them forever; whereby the power & majesty of the Judge shall be made to shine out with the most resplendent luster. Thus shall that great & superior Court be broke up, and all the Acts of it be made to be of force, & abide in their efficacy through all Eternity, to the everlasting renown of the Lord Jesus Christ. This is that which is in Scripture called the Great •• y, because of those great things that are to be done upon it, by ou • exalted ••• deemer, and which shall never be •• voked. And this is the Enalta ••••• of Christ.

USE I. WHAT a loud Call is here to us all, above all things to seek and secure an Interest in Christ, and his Redemption? Is Jesus Christ to manage that Great Day's Work? Oh I seek to make him your Friend against that time. Make haste, break off your sins by repentance, fly into the arms of a Savior, that it may go well with you in that dreadful Day. Know of a certainty, that there is such a Day coming, God hath said, and r • co •• ied it in the Scriptures of truth, Be assured, that you must everyone of you then in person appear, and receive your final doom at that Bar. Remember, Jesus Christ will them be the Judge and if you now despise the Son of God, and reject the Lord of Glory, how will you be able to appear before, and look him in the face at that Day? Think what a precious advantage is now in your hands, to seek and to obtain to be delivered from your Judge, to fly to his Righteousness, and obtain your Pardon at his hands. Be then persuaded seriously to inquire. What you shall do that you may stand in that day; how you may obtain then to be placed at the Judge's right Hand; and being acquainted with it, fly to the Lord Jesus Christ, take up your shelter under the shadow of his Wings: Lo! He stands at the door and knocks; open to him, let him in, and he will be your protection in that terrible Day.

USE. II. What admirable Refreshment doth this afford to all true Believers? Here is a Voice of Peace & Comfort to the Children of God. The great and dreadful Day needs not amaze you; it is your Spouse, and your Savior to whom God the Father hath committed this Judgment, with a full power to dispose of the everlasting rewards & punishment of the reasonable Creatures. And if he be Judge, and his Righteousness shall answer for you, how happy will you be, to see your only Beloved sitting on the Throne, when your eyes shall see your Redeemer 〈…〉 Father's Glory, and he shall take you 〈…〉 himself, and make you his Co- 〈◊〉 Judging the World; when he shall 〈…〉 everlasting Crown upon your Heads 〈…〉 of this then, and say, this is the Day 〈◊〉 love, that I wait for: and let the 〈◊〉 of it keep up in you a comfortable 〈◊〉 of his coming again from the third 〈◊〉 and put you upon making it your 〈◊〉 ca • e & endeavor to be in a readine •• 〈◊〉 that when you hear him say, Behold, 〈◊〉 quickly, you may cheerfully ech •• 〈…〉 Even so come LORD JESUS.

SERMON CXIII.

We formerly observed, that in the Anas •• sy or Ressi •• sion of fallen man, there are two parts, viz Redemption and Application. The former of these hath been considered of, as being undertaken and completely accomol shed by the Son of God in our Nature. We are now to take an Account of the latter, which is ascribed to the Holy Spirit; an Introduction to which is made by the Question & Answer before us. And there are three things plainly express, which may at present be a little laid open, viz.

• 1. That we must be made Partakers of this Redemption, in order to our Salvation.
• 2. That this must be by a particular Application of it to us.
• 3. That the Holy Spirit of God is the Author of this Application.

I. THAT we must be made Partakers of this Redemption, in order to our Salvation. Here observe.

• 1. THAT the great design of Christ's Redemption, is she Salvation of his Redeemed. He must have some end in this great Work. No wise Agent doth anything, but with an aim at something which be would bring about by if. Now they are in a great mistake, who think that this was only to render mankind salvable, as if it ended there, and were left to the liberty of men, whether they will be saved by it or no. Were it so, there would not be one saved, and so it would lose its Glory. For no man will of his own accord, left to himself, accept of Salvation by it. Christ wrought out this Redemption for those that wh ••• 〈◊〉 him of his Father to redeem, and th ••• 〈◊〉 not any of them be loft. Joh. 6.39. 〈◊〉 is the Father's will which hath sent 〈…〉 all which be hub given me, I should • se 〈◊〉 but should raise it up again at the l • ft 〈◊〉
• THE 〈◊〉 • p • i • n itself, as is 〈…〉 Priestly. Office, doth not actually pa • 〈◊〉 slate of Salvation. There is indeed a ••••• tion by Power, which doth give 〈…〉 and so brings them into this state; 〈◊〉 which is by Price doth not: but only 〈◊〉 way for it. This Price is laid down 〈◊〉 accepted by God on the account of 〈◊〉 Elect, and they shall in due t ••• 〈◊〉 full benefit of it. But this not • ith 〈◊〉 They are born Children of •• ath as 〈◊〉 2.3. There is a time wherein they 〈…〉 God and hope, &c. ver. 12. And 〈◊〉 with every natural man, whiles be 〈◊〉 to be in a state of unregeneracy. 〈…〉 we ourselves also were sometimes 〈…〉 bedient, deceived, serving divers lus •• 〈◊〉 sures, living in malice and enry, 〈…〉 bating one another.
• 3. HENCE, That we may be saved by 〈◊〉 Redemption must be made ours, we 〈…〉 share in it, and title to it. It is cer ••• 〈◊〉 all men do not obrain Salvation by it 〈◊〉 withstanding Christ hath paid an inf •••• 〈◊〉 sufficient to answer for all the W •••• 〈◊〉 there are those whom Christ doth 〈…〉 but after all that he hath done, they 〈◊〉 forever: and the reason of it must 〈◊〉 because they have no part or portion 〈◊〉 Redemption; they can lay no cla •• 〈◊〉 It is not therefore enough to satisfy 〈◊〉 that Christ hath done this work, 〈◊〉 can appropriate it to himself, and 〈…〉 as Paul doth, Gal. 2.20. I am crew • 〈◊〉 Christ. Nevertheless I live •• yet not 〈◊〉 liveth in me: and the life which I 〈…〉 the flesh, I live by the saith of Son 〈◊〉 who loved me, and gave himself for 〈…〉 .

II. THAT his must be by a particular Application of it to us. And here we are to confider, the Necessity of Application. In order to which it is requisite that we observe the Na •••• of it, from which the Necessity is to be 〈◊〉 . The particulars of this will be as ••••• s considered. Here only in general 〈◊〉 and benesefits of Christ's Redemption to us 〈◊〉 the 〈◊〉 of the New Government. 〈◊〉 benefits were purchased and laid in by ••••• ption, but they became ours by a Con ••••• that is made of them; and there 〈…〉 in and by which this Conveyance is 〈…〉 when these two are laid open, 〈…〉 will undeniably appear.

1. 〈◊〉 i • a Conveyance • of these fruits 〈…〉 to us, be which they become ours, 〈…〉 the very essence of Application. Now 〈◊〉 there most be such a Conveyance, will be 〈◊〉 if 〈◊〉 confider,

• (1.) THAT it is from the Vertne of these ••• its & benefits that our Salvation must slow ••• betain that the ground and st ••• gth of 〈◊〉 Salvation is laid in Christ's Redemption. The 〈◊〉 net gone through that Work, no flesh 〈◊〉 have been saved. There was all that •••• qui • i • e to make us everlastingly happy 〈◊〉 . What those fruits and benefits 〈◊〉 be afterwards considered. But it is 〈◊〉 that our felicity cannot exceed the 〈◊〉 • f them, because it entirely depends 〈◊〉 them. And the reason why we hope 〈◊〉 pleat Salvation, is because Christ is 〈◊〉 save is to the uttermost, Heb. 7.25. 〈◊〉 he is able also to s ••• them to the 〈◊〉 , that come unto God by him s •• ing be •••• ith to make intercession for them. It 〈◊〉 not died, we could not have lived. 〈◊〉 not satisfied, we could not have been 〈◊〉 if he had not purchased we could • work • •• ve possessed. It is therefore the 〈◊〉 of these, that we have alone to rest 〈◊〉 .
• (2.) THAT is it not •• ough that they have 〈◊〉 in them, except it be derived unto 〈◊〉 . Th • re must be a communication of them 〈…〉 use we shall not be advantaged by 〈◊〉 . There is a glorious provision made in 〈◊〉 Redemption of Christ for poor Sinners; 〈◊〉 most receive it, and live upon it, if 〈◊〉 they be anything the better for it. An 〈◊〉 S •• ve, though it have never so much 〈◊〉 to it, will not heal a wound, unless 〈◊〉 it. The wholesomest Food will not 〈◊〉 the body, except it be eaten; nor will 〈◊〉 the Soul unless applied. Hence we 〈◊〉 so expressing himself, Joh. 6.53. 〈…〉 said unto them, Verily, Verily I say 〈…〉 Except ye cat the flesh of the Son of 〈…〉 drink his blood, ye have no life in you. 〈◊〉 sufficiency will not do for us, without •••• acy of it working upon us. His Righ •••• ness can answer the Law in all its de •••• for us, but it will not justify us except 〈…〉 •• pured to us. He hath Grace enough in him to sanctify us, but it will not make us holy till it be infused into us. He hath paid for the eternal Kingdom, but in order to our enjoying it we must be put in possesion.
• (3.) HENCE, it is by this Conveyance that we are put 〈◊〉 state of Salvation. There was indeed an appointment to Salvation antecedent to it, but that made no change in out stave; not yet did the purchase of it which was made by Christ in fullness of time. There is after all this 〈◊〉 a ••••• passing from death to life; and that is do • e by applying of Chirist to at as a Redeemer. When his active and possive Obedience are made over to be, by the j ••• ti • ying act of Grace, then is the death of the worse re •• o • ed, and we are adjudged to Use: and when the sanctifying Grace of Christ is derived to us by the renewing act, then 〈◊〉 have a spiritual life put into us. Hence that; Eph. 2.1. And you • ath be q •• cknod who were 〈◊〉 in tres •• sses and 〈◊〉 . And • rill this be •••• e, the curse li •• on us, we lie open to the wrath of God, and are under the doubled of spiritual Death.
• (4.) HENCE also, All 〈◊〉 Claim & Titles to these fruit: and 〈…〉 from this Conveyance. It is true, all 〈…〉 commit and hope, flows originally from the Redemption itself, and we must refer it altim • tely to that. According to Ro •• . 8.24. 〈…〉 be that's condemneth? It is Christ that d •• d, you rather 〈◊〉 is risen again, who is even at the right h ••• of God who also 〈◊〉 for us. But still, that we may or can safely derive this comfort and hope to our Souls; and have an undeceiving assurance that it is our own, the most be able, 〈◊〉 or by to say that Christ hath done and died, and rises; and 〈…〉 possession of all for his People; for 〈◊〉 ••• y everyone that hath heard the report of the Gospel, and given a literal credit 〈◊〉 say, and yet be never the better for is 〈◊〉 but also, that all this be made ours, that which are received it. It hath been offered to 〈◊〉 but these only have the good of it. Hence that, John. 1.12, 13. But as many as 〈◊〉 him, to the • give be power to become the sons 〈◊〉 God, even to them that believe on his N ••• e 〈◊〉 which were born, not of blood, not of the will of the flesh, 〈◊〉 of the will of man, that of God. Accordingly we have such an expressions in Col. 1. 〈◊〉 . To whom God would make 〈◊〉 w • at is the riches of the glory af •• bis mystery among the Gentiles, which is Christ in young the hop • of glory.

2. THAT this Conveyance is according to the tenor of the New Covenant. And the consideration of this will further evince the Necessity of this Application.—And here observe

• (1.) THAT the rustering of fallen man from misery to felicity, is brought about in the • ay of a Covenant. On this account it is that we so often read of God's making a New Covenant. When he speaks of bestowing saving good upon his Chosen, this is the way in which infinite Wisdom hath seen meet to transact with man. And as there was a Covenant, by the violation of which man was left, so God hath appointed another, according to which he shall again be recovered. And so necessary is this Covenant, in order to man's well being. that to be without Covenant, and without Hope, are made parallel, Eph. 2.12.
• (2.) THAT in this Covenant there are Terms according to which the benefits thereof are offered. God in treating with man in it, proposeth great benefits to them to be enjoyed by them, even all those benefits which Jesus Christ hath purchased by his Redemption, in which are Grace and Glory, and every good thing contained. Psal. 84.11. For the Lord God it a sun and shield: the Lord will give grace and glory; no good thing will be withhold from them that walk uprightly. They are called great and precious promises, 2 Pet. 1.4. But these are not absolutely given, but hypothetically offered in this Treaty. So that the Covenant not only exhibits the things, but also shows us the way in which we may be partakers in them. We therefore read of a way of Peace, and a may of Salvation: In which is shown to us, what must be done in and by us, if ever we inherit the Promises.
• (3.) THAT these Terms are by the Covenant made necessary. They are not only proposed as things convenient, but they are things that do, and must accompany Salvation. As, Heb. 6.9. And though God hath put it into the promise of the Covenant of Redemption, that he will work these things in all those whom he hath given to Christ, yet in the offers of the Covenant of Grace he requires them of us, Mich. 6.8. He hath shown thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, bud to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God. And the demand is so positively made in the Gospel, that the coming short of those terms, is threatened with a loss of the good promised. Not only is the promise upon a supposition, if you repent and believe; but the loss of all this good is denounced on failure of this, Mar. 16.16. Joh. 3.36. Rom. 8.13. Heb. 12.14. And frequently elsewhere.
• (4.) THAT in the plighting of this Covenant, these terms are wrought in the man. God never ratifies the Covenant to any but in this way, and therefore until this be done in man, it is a sure evidence that they are strangers to the Covenant. When therefore God speaks of making a new Covenant with his People, he tells them what he will do in them upon this account, Jer. 31, 33. But this shall be the Covenant that I will make with the house of Israel, After those days, saith the Lord, I will put my law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts, and will be their God, and they shall to my people. And elsewhere he tells them that he will bring them under the bond of the Covenant, Ezek. 20.33. i. e. they shall be made to comply with all that is therein required of them.
• (5.) THAT in, and upon the working of these terms in us, Christ, with all his benefits becomes ours; who was not so before. We must be entitled to Christ himself, if we would be able to challenge his benefits. It is obtain that we are strangers to him, and 〈◊〉 interest in him, in our natural estate. 〈◊〉 is in and by the new Covenant, that he becomes ours, it being a Covenant of Es •••••• . And hence it is so expressed, Hos. 2. 〈◊〉 And in that day will I make a cou ••••• 〈◊〉 them with the beasts of the field, and 〈◊〉 the fowls of beaven, and with the creepi •• 〈◊〉 of the ground: and I will break the 〈…〉 sword, and the battle out of the earth, and 〈◊〉 make them to lie down safely. And I will 〈◊〉 thee unto me forever, yea, I will be •••• 〈◊〉 unto me in righteousness, and in 〈◊〉 in mercies. I will even betroth thee 〈…〉 faithfulness, and thou shalt know the Lord. 〈◊〉 here he tells us what he expects, if we 〈◊〉 and he ours; and upon our actual con •••••• thereto the Covenant is ratified. Now 〈◊〉 things amount to the Application 〈◊〉 considering of, and so stand to ratify the •• cessity of it.

III. THAT the Holy Spirit of god in the Author of this Application. It is he, 〈◊〉 only that doth produce it, as the e ••• cie • of it. The Word indeed is used by him 〈◊〉 Instrument, which he makes improvement as he sees mere, in the production of it, 〈◊〉 that can do nothing without him, 〈◊〉 he can do without that; and all the 〈◊〉 that is wrought by it derives from him. 〈◊〉 when this is attributed to the Holy 〈◊〉 is not to be understood exclusive of th • 〈◊〉 two Glorious Persons of the Trinity; 〈◊〉 the divine Works that are done by God 〈◊〉 of himself, are common to the Trining 〈◊〉 hence this is ascribed both to the Fa ••• 〈◊〉 6.44. No man can come to me, except the 〈◊〉 which both sent me, draw him. And to 〈◊〉 Joh. 12.32. And I, if I be listed 〈…〉 earth, will draw all men unto me. But 〈◊〉 hath a more peculiar assignation in 〈◊〉 to the Holy Ghost, and for that reason 〈◊〉 useth that as an argument to convi ••• 〈◊〉 Disciples of the need of his going from 〈◊〉 as to his bodily presence, that so he 〈◊〉 make way for the Spirit's coming to 〈◊〉 work. Joh. 16.7. Nevertheless, I tell 〈◊〉 truth, it is expedient for you that I go 〈◊〉 : for if I go no: away, the Comforter will 〈◊〉 unto you: but if I depart, I will send him 〈◊〉 you. And he tells them what the work 〈◊〉 that he should do when he came, ver. 13. 〈◊〉 beit, when he the Spirit of truth is come, ••••• guide you into all truth: for he shall 〈…〉 of himself; but whatsoever he shall 〈◊〉 , the shall be speak, & he will sh • w you things to 〈◊〉 . The regenerate are therefore said to be 〈◊〉 of the Spirit, Joh. 3.6. Here then we may 〈◊〉 see that it is a divine Work, and them the reason why it is ascribed to the Holy 〈◊〉 .

1. THAT the work of Application is a 〈◊〉 Work, will be evident if we consider 〈◊〉 things,

• (1.) THAT the things that are done in only this Application, are works of Omnip ••••• . There is nothing less than Almighty Power created in every part of Application. The Work of Conversion, which comprehends under it the Change itself that is wrought in to, whereby Christ and we are brought together, of Unbelievers we are made Believers, of Sinners, Saints, is compared to those things which are above all the virtue of any created power, viz. a Creation, 2 Cor. 5.17. Therefore away man be in Christ, he is a new creature; 〈◊〉 things are past away, behold, all things are 〈◊〉 new. A Resurrection or Quickening, 〈◊〉 . 2.1. And you hath he quickened who were 〈◊〉 in trespasses and sins. And in this respect it is ascribed to the same power which was at work in raising Christ from the dead, Eph. 1.19, 20. And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us ward who believe, according to the 〈◊〉 of his mighty power: Which he wrought it Christ when he raised him from the dead, & set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places.
• (2.) IT must needs therefore exceed the power of men or of means to do it. That God makes are of men and means in the doing of it, is not because they have the virtue in them. They must all say here, as they did in another case. Act. 3.12. And when Peter saw it, he answered unto the people, Ye men of Israel, why navel ye at this? or why look ye so earnestly is 〈◊〉 , as though by our own power or holiness, are had made this man to walk? But it is that his power may be seen and acknowledged, by the weakness of the Instruments. Hence 〈◊〉 observable Speech of Paul, 2. Cor. 4.7. 〈…〉 have this treasure in earthen vessels, 〈◊〉 the excellency of the power may be of God, 〈◊〉 of us. He therefore refers the whole 〈◊〉 of all, endeavors of Man to God, 〈◊〉 3.6. And we are given to understand 〈◊〉 the new birth, which is the product of 〈◊〉 , is to be attributed to no second 〈◊〉 but only to the first, Joh. 1.13.
• (3.) HENCE, The Instrumental efficacy of the means is merely moral. It is true, the 〈◊〉 contained in the Word of God is the 〈◊〉 that is applied; but in point of efficiency, Man can only apply it to us by way of ••••• asion according to which it is suited a • 〈◊〉 Man by, as a reasonable Creature, and 〈◊〉 agent. But the power to discern the excellency of the Truth, and so to approve and embrace it, and to choose and close 〈◊〉 Christ, who is offered in it, must come 〈◊〉 a superior agent; because in the doing 〈◊〉 blind mind must be illuminated, and the rebellious heart subdued, Acts 26.18. and this they cannot do of themselves.
• (4.) HENCE, till God applies His Virtue 〈◊〉 them, there is no saving efficacy at all by them upon Men. Men may sit all their lives under the most clear and lively dispensation of the Gospel, and yet remain in their unbelief and impenitence. Yea, woeful experience 〈…〉 that there are a great many that do so; and so they will, till the Arm of God is 〈◊〉 to them, Isai. 53.1. What made 〈◊〉 to hearken to Paul? Acts 16.14. What makes any of God's Servants successful in the Conversion of sinners, but the influence of that promise? Mat. 28.20. And 〈◊〉 , I am with you always even unto the end of the World, Amen.

2. IF the Reason be asked, Way this is more peculiarly ascribed to the Holy Spirit? Let these things be observed,

• (1.) THAT the Spirit being equal in Glory to the other two Persons, must have some great Work ascribed to him, that the glorious manner of his subsisting & working may appear, and that he may have the declarative glory of it ascribed to him from us, and that all men may honor him, as they honor the Father, and the Son. Now Creation is peculiarly ascribe to the Father, and Redemption to the Son, and what other great Work remains to be attributed to the Spirit but this? Hence we read, 1 Cor. 12.13. For by one Spirit we are all baptized into one body, whether we be fews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free: and have been all made to drink into one Spirit. Joh. 10.8, 9. And when he, i.e. the Spirit, is come he will reprove the world of sin, & of righteousness & of judgment. Of sin, because they believe not on me. Of righteousness, because I go to my Father, and ye soe me no more. 1 Cor. 2.10. But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God.
• (2.) THAT all the Divine Persons are to show their wondrous Love in the recovery of fallen man. And this each doth according to his manner of working. There must be that then wherein the Holy Ghost displays his Love in his manner of working. Believers are said to be the house of God, and all must show their good will to this house. God the Father manifests his in choosing of it, Eph. 1.4. God the Son hath abundantly declared his in purchasing of, and the price which he laid down for it, Act. 20.28. And now the Holy Ghost displays his, in taking possession of it, 1 Cor. 3.16.
• (3.) THE Spirit is the last in order of subsisting, and hence the consummation or finishing of things is ascribed unto him. In the great Work of man's recovery this Application is the last thing that is done for him. The Father had done his part in choosing & ordaining them to life, and Covenanting with his Son for the bringing it about. The Son had done his by making Satisfaction to Justice, and laying down the whole Redemption price. And now there is nothing else remains to recover man from misery to happiness, but the Applying the virtue of this unto him, which he pursues till it be accomplished, and thereby witnesseth the Love of the Father, and of the Son, as well as his own to us.
• (4.) THE Work of Application is a work of Infinite and Almighty Power: As hath been observed. And hence we have such an expression, Eph. 3.20. Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us. It is therefore properly ascribed to him, who is called the power of the must high Luk. 1.35. There being a coc •• uence of all the micles that ever were done is the weak of Application. Yea, the work of Creation itself, was but a shadow of it, 2 Cor. 16. Isai. 51.16.

USE. I. LEARN hence, how vain a thing it is for any to bless themselves in the consideration of Christ's Redemption, who are not able is evidence this work of Application in them. Vain man is rather willing to take anything on trust, than to deal thoroughly with himself, though it be in a matter of greatest moment. How many therefore can give no other account of their hope for eternal Life, but that they believe that Christ died to purchase it for fallen man. But let all such know, that if this were never made yours by Application, it will never be your security against the wrath of God. What will it avail you, that Christ died, if his Death be not made yours? And if ever it were, there have been those impressions of the divine Power on your Souls, which have brought you into the New Covenant, and wrought the terms of it in you. You have been made to comply with the offers of Grace, and receive the Lord Jesus Christ as he hath been tendered to you in the Gospel. And if you are strangers to any such thing as this is, your pleas are but hold presumptions, and if you lean your weights 〈◊〉 them, you will God them to deceive you •• .

Use. II. SEE here how dangerous 〈◊〉 is it to resist, to tempt, or provoke the 〈◊〉 of God. If ever the Purchase of Christ 〈◊〉 benefits of Redemption be made 〈…〉 must be conveyed to us by the Holy 〈◊〉 . If he do not apply them to us, all the 〈◊〉 is the World can never effect it. Th •••• so much of Omnipotency required in 〈◊〉 Work, that no other can be the 〈◊〉 but he. What then do you mean, that you withstand him, when he comes and 〈◊〉 to do this work for you. Sadly sit 〈…〉 think with yourselves, if by thus 〈…〉 provoke him to depart and forsake 〈…〉 are then put beyond all hopes of 〈◊〉 though you should enjoy the best of 〈◊〉 . And let Young Ones beware of this 〈◊〉 he strives, and you resist, he 〈…〉 put him off with delays, he may 〈…〉 farewell of you. And if he do, you 〈◊〉 miss of Salvation by Christ, and 〈◊〉 f • ll up a more fearful measure of 〈◊〉 he executed upon you.

SERMON CXIV.

UNDER the former Question, we took an Account of the general Nature, Necessity, and Author of Application. We are here pointed to the Consideration of the Way or Manner of the Spirit's working it in us. There are Three things intimated to us in this Answer,

• 1. The Way in which the Spirit so applies Christ's Redemption to us, as it becomes ours, i e. by Uniting us to Christ.
• 2. The Course that he takes to produce this Union, viz. by working Faith in us.
• 3. The Work in which this Faith, and the consequent Union is produced, viz. Effectual Calling.

The two latter of these will come under after Consideration. I shall therefore at present take no farther notice of them, than is necessary for the opening and clearing of the former. Let us then observe, that Faith is the proper uniting Grace, by which we are made one with Christ, and that this Faith is a work of the Holy Spirit, and prod •••• 〈◊〉 in Conversion. But that that lies 〈◊〉 is our Union with Christ. And here •••• ral, let us observe, That there are 〈…〉 of Application, viz. Union to, and 〈◊〉 on with Christ. The former of the •• 〈◊〉 ground of the latter, or the found 〈◊〉 which it is laid, or the medium by 〈◊〉 is introduced. We must first be in 〈◊〉 fore we can partake in his benefits 〈◊〉 promises are treasured up in him, 2 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 . And so, it is with Him, that God 〈◊〉 thing else to us, Rom. 8.32. The Doctrine 〈◊〉 Union, is very mysterious, and most 〈◊〉 next to that of the hypostatical Union 〈◊〉 two Natures, Divine and Human, 〈◊〉 Person of Christ. It is therefore 〈◊〉 for us to take a brief view of it at 〈◊〉 for the avoiding of the dangerous 〈◊〉 on either hand. And here I shall 〈◊〉 wave divers niceties used by some, and 〈◊〉 your to accommodate myself to 〈…〉 pacities. And here we may first 〈◊〉 the Nature of this Union, and then 〈◊〉 Way in which it is wrought.

I. TOUCHING the Nature of this 〈◊〉 we may conceive of it in this Doctrine 〈◊〉 , It is a mystical and spiritual Conjunction 〈◊〉 between Christ and the Believer, where 〈◊〉 are brought into the nearest relation, 〈◊〉 other. In which Description there are 〈◊〉 things to be taken notice of,

1. THE Parties between whom this 〈◊〉 made, viz. Christ, and the believer. This 〈◊〉 of Union • at mates things that are diverse, and yet in some respect 〈◊〉 , and oftentimes ••• y be •••• e one by • er • ue of this Union, 〈◊〉 before it, were not only divers, but 〈◊〉 . And so it is here. There are therefore two Parties, which are supposed to be 〈◊〉 of it.

• (1.) THE one Party is Christ. O • which 〈◊〉 • e and his Church are called by one 〈◊〉 , Christ. 〈◊〉 Cor. 12.12. For is the body 〈◊〉 and hath • e • y members, and all the mem ••• of th •• one body, being many are one body: 〈◊〉 is Christ. And here we are to consider 〈◊〉 neither •• cerly as God, or a divine Per ••• , 〈◊〉 ••• erly in regard of his human Nature, but as God Man Mediator. It is true, by Christ, we are united to God. Hence that under ••• expression. Joh 17.21. That they 〈◊〉 may • e one, as th •• Father art in me, and I 〈◊〉 , that they also may be 〈◊〉 in us. But it 〈◊〉 Person of Christ whom they nextly 〈…〉 . And indeed, it was by the So • 's •••• ing Man, and Mediator, that the way was 〈◊〉 for this Union, but for which, there had 〈…〉 coming at God by sinful man, but he ••• ld have been as dry stubble to a consuming •• e. It is by him that we have access to 〈…〉 , 2.18.
• (2) The •• her Party is the Believer. Not 〈◊〉 there is any article of time in which he on Believer before this Union is made; for 〈◊〉 Answer t • lls us, that by working Faith 〈…〉 , he • ai • es us. We therefore read, Eph. 〈◊〉 . 17. Thus Christ may dwell in your • earts by 〈◊〉 Before believing we are sinners, and 〈◊〉 from him, but by faith we receive 〈◊〉 • et yet there is an antecedency in 〈◊〉 〈…〉 in as much as faith hath the 〈◊〉 of at instrument, or medium of this 〈◊〉 . It • ay also well be expressed by the 〈◊〉 because all Believers, and none but 〈◊〉 are thus united to him.
• (3). 〈◊〉 g ••• er • l nature of it; • it is a Con •••• made between these two. Believers 〈…〉 this account, said to be joined to the 〈◊〉 1 Cor. 6.17. The word signifies to ad ••• 〈◊〉 , as thing th •• are glued one to 〈◊〉 noting the intim ••• of it. There 〈◊〉 Conjunctions of things, all of which 〈◊〉 not of the same kind of nature, 〈◊〉 imply an uniting of them; we 〈◊〉 therefore pursue this a little further.

Hence,

2. THE spetial nature of it, may be gathered 〈◊〉 the rest of the Description. Where three 〈◊〉 are asserted,

• (1.) THAT it is a mystical Union. The 〈…〉 tells us that it is agreat Mystery, 〈◊〉 5.32. Now a Mystery is a thing that •••• se and secret, we have a notion of 〈◊〉 itself, but are at a loss about the 〈◊〉 manner of it, we cannot understand ••• ess how it was brought about. The 〈◊〉 of a Trinity of Persons in the Union the God-head, of the two Natures insi ••• disproportionable in themselves, united 〈◊〉 Person of Christ; and of the Union of a Believer to Christ • ia • Regeneration, are depths, which the line of our understanding is not able to fathom; but after our utmost search, we must sit down to gaze upon them with admiration. How many overdaring Spirits, not content to acknowledge their own ignorance, have 〈◊〉 themselves into blasphemy, whiles they have confounded this with the two former, and said, we are God ded with God, and Christed with Christ. It is certain, that our whole Man, Soul and Body are united to the whole Christ, God Man, but neither are we made to lose our human nature, and become divine; nor is • ut humanity so united to Christ, as is that individual which he hath assumed into union with his Person; which Hypostatical union is proper to that individual: It is another manner of thing, and we may make some guesses at it by that which follows.
• (2.) It is a spititual Union. It is not therefore to be looked on with a carnal Eye, or entertained with carnal Conceptions. It is real and not imaginary, but yet it is not that which our senses are to be admitted Judges of, out being spiritual, we must have spiritual thoughts about it. The Apostle tells us, 1 Cor. 6.17. But he that is joined to the Lord, is one Spirit. The distance of place between the human nature of Christ in Heaven, and ou • s here upon Earth, doth no way impede it; the separation between our Souls and Bodies at Death, doth not dissolve it, but when the Soul is in Heaven, and the Body is turned to Dust in the Grave, the union of both to him abides indissoluble. We are therefore said to die in the Lord, Rev. 14.13. To be dead in Christ, 1 Thel. 4.16. And to sleep in Jesus, ver. 14. But though this union be truly spiritual, yet the Word of God gives us diverse carnal similitudes of it, for the help of our understandings, which we must watily apply to it; not grossly, but spiritually, remembering that every similitude hath something derective in it, and the Spirit of God useth many, because no one cao fully adumbrate it. It is compared to that of a Vine and its Branches, Job. 15.1, 2, 4, 5. to no • e the closeness and connaturalness of it, and to let us understand, that by ve •• ue of it, we derive all our life, and fruit from Christ, and receive the same sap of Grace from him, which is radicated in him. But yet, there is this difference, the branches do grow naturally out of the Vine, and are of the same individual substance with it, whereas Christ and we are personally distinct, and we are put into him by an implanting, Rom. 6.5. For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death: we shall be also in the likness of his resurrection. Hence it is resembled to a Cion that is grafted into a stock, Rom. 11.17. Thereby intimating, that though by it we participate in his sap and vigor, yet this union is not by nature, but it is an effect of free Grace. We were before united to the first Adam, but we are taken out of him, and put into Christ And there is here also this remarkable difference, that the Cion turns the sap into fruits of its own kind, whereas the Believer upon Union with Christ and drawing nourishment from him, bears fruit accordingly, s ••• ual fruit. It is express by a Body, consisting of head and members, 1 Cor. 12.12. noting the syme •• y & proportion there is between Christ and Believers in his • y •• ical Body: and that they are managed & assisted by his in •• uence, and that there is a sympathy between them; but yet this is after a more transcendent manner than that. It is compared to that of a Building, consisting of a foundation & superstructure, in which every Believes is one stone, 1 Pe • . 2.4, 5, 6. to show as, that the whole strength of this Union is in Christ. It is he who bears it up, and helds it together; that out whole weight lies upon him. Only in this it differs, that in this Building everyone is a living stone. And to name 〈◊〉 ••• e; it is resembled by the union that i • made in marriage, between Husband and Wise, Eph. 5. • 1.32. They remain two individual persons still, but yet there is an oneness between them. And this adds to all the former comparisons, that it is a rational union, and is founded, in mutual consent, from whence proceeds that bond by which, they are ryed one to the other inseparably. This therefore of all the similitudes used in Scripture to express this union, is most frequently made use of, as most wonderfully expressing the excellency of it, and most clearly disinguishing it from the hypostatical union of the two Natures in Christ. Hence.

3. It is an Union that • rings them into the ne • rest Relation each to other. Indeed, it is not merely and purely relative; it is a real thing as was before observed. And so there is something real, which is the foundation of many relations in this World; as between the Vine and its Branches, the Stock and the Graff, the Foundation, and the Stones that are built upon it, the Husband and the Wife This Union is such, as by virtue of it wed well in him, and he dwelleth in us, 1 Joh. 4.13. And so we become the Temple of the living God. It is an Union by which the same Spirit that dwells in the Man Christ, dwells in us, so that we are one Spirit, 1 Cor. 6.17. Hence we have such a wonderful expression, Rom 8.11. But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead, dwell in you: • e that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies, by his Spirit that dwelleth in you. It is an Union by which Christ derives every Grace of his to us, and causeth us to partake in it, according to our measure, Joh. 1.16. And of his fullness have all we received, and grace for grace. It being like that precious O ••• meant, Psal. 133.2. It is an Union by which our whole spiritual life is fountained in him, and derives continually from him to us, Gal. 〈◊〉 . 20. Without which derivation, or continued influence, we can do no spiritual action, Joh. 15.5. But yet the resultancy of the Union is the making of that relation between him and us, 〈◊〉 by we are placed most near to him. 〈◊〉 that wonderful expression. Eph. 5.30. 〈◊〉 are members of his b •• y, of his •• e •• , and 〈◊〉 bo • es. Which is not carnally but sp ••• 〈◊〉 to be understood. No • that we do by •• rive our body, and slosh and blood s ••• 〈◊〉 as the efficient, for in this we differ 〈◊〉 all other Creatures; but he is look •• 〈◊〉 as the second Adam, and so spiritually s •• ing a new Nature to us, by which 〈…〉 made like him, and spiritually are of 〈◊〉 him, as a man's sl • sh and bones 〈◊〉 to spiriturally. Hence all those relative •••• rive, as Head and Members, Be ••• Spouse, &c. And this may suffice to be ••• concerning the Nature of this Union.

II. TOUCHING the Way in which 〈◊〉 wrought: This also is as my •• eri •• out •• sormer. We are told that it is 〈◊〉 Effectual Calling. So that when we 〈◊〉 a particular inquiry into the nature 〈◊〉 Work, we may from thence receive 〈◊〉 light into it. We are also told, th •• done by the working of Faith in us. 〈◊〉 is the product of effectual Calling. 〈◊〉 therefore we come to con • id how we 〈◊〉 to be made Believers, we may then 〈◊〉 how this Union is brought about & co •• ed. This might he illu •••• ated in each 〈◊〉 forecited comparisons, but that which upon us as reasonable Creatures, and 〈◊〉 us to that mutual consent which 〈…〉 is the most full and comprehen ••• 〈◊〉 then let these few Remarks be ma • e 〈◊〉 help in it.

I. THAT there is nor only a natura • moral distance between Christ, and the 〈◊〉 his natural state. Not only are 〈◊〉 distinct Persons, but sin • ad made a 〈◊〉 paration between them. Psal. 53.3. 〈◊〉 were far off from him, before he 〈◊〉 this in them, Eph. 2.13. But no • 〈◊〉 Jesus, ye who sometimes more after of • . •• nigh by the blood of Christ. They w ••• 〈◊〉 trary one to another as light is to 〈◊〉 They were gone far from God, and 〈◊〉 mind to return to him again. And 〈◊〉 there was little appearance of any li •••• of there ever coming together; the • 〈◊〉 such a contrariety between his spa ••• ••• ness, and their universal impurity.

2. That the first leading cause of 〈◊〉 is the Everlasting Love of God to the 〈◊〉 God is the Author of it. If he had 〈◊〉 it the sinner never would. Hence o ••• 65.1. I am sought of them that a •••• 〈◊〉 me: I am sold of them that sought 〈…〉 said, Behold me, behold me, unto a 〈…〉 was not called by my Name. And th •• 〈◊〉 4.19. We love him: because he first 〈◊〉 God did purpose concerning some, ••• nity, that when their sin had bro ••• union between them and their M •• would bring about another between 〈◊〉 and their Redeemer. This th •• assigned as the prime reason of their 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 to him. Jer 31.3. The Lord book app •• d of all 〈…〉 , saying, T •• , I have lived 〈…〉 everlo • ing love: therefore 〈…〉 •• ness have I dre •••• thee. Yea, this is •• ove that sent Christ to make way for such 〈…〉 as this, which could not be till our 〈…〉 ••• ied for, which he employed him 〈◊〉 1 Job. 4.10. Herein is love, not that 〈◊〉 God, but that be loved us, and sent his 〈…〉 the prop •• ation for our fias.

3. THAT from this Love, God balls a treaty 〈◊〉 the S •• er about this 〈◊〉 . God treats 〈…〉 as a reasonable Creature, and hereupon, in order to the bringing about of this 〈◊〉 , be comes and con ••••• es with him 〈◊〉 it, and makes offers of it to him. This 〈◊〉 o •• wardly • y the Gospel, and the 〈◊〉 of it, soe the dispe • sing whereof, 〈…〉 forth his Ministers as Ambassadors, 〈◊〉 their great business is to make the offers of, and •• ive sinful Men to embrace Recon •••••• with God, through Christ, which is 〈◊〉 bought a ••• e in this Urion. Hence 〈…〉 that in, 2 Cor. 5.20. Now then we 〈◊〉 for Christ, as though God d • d 〈◊〉 you by us; we pray you in Christ's stood, 〈…〉 r ••• cied to God.

THAT in this tr • ary, be lays before the Sinwell A • g • ments persarsive, to move him to apply with the offer make. He lays before 〈…〉 highly rational it is that he should 〈…〉 and how every way advantageous and ••••• ng it will be for him. He therefore 〈◊〉 to him the miserable and end one 〈◊〉 that be is at present in, and that the 〈◊〉 of it is because by sin he hath separa •• 〈◊〉 from the fountain of Life and 〈◊〉 and brought himself under all the 〈◊〉 of Law. He declared to him 〈◊〉 never be better with him, so long 〈◊〉 ••• es as he is, and the dista • ce be ••• • ind and him is not remo • ed; that 〈◊〉 is 〈◊〉 other Object of trust with which 〈…〉 , that is able to do him the least 〈…〉 on this account, but will prove a 〈◊〉 of lies, and an hiding place of deceit. He ••• poods the Lord Jesus Christ to him 〈…〉 is able and willing to remedy all this 〈◊〉 , by delivering him from it, and 〈…〉 him completely happy in case • e 〈◊〉 •• ject • is affitance elsewhere, and place 〈◊〉 ; that • e hath Salvation to the 〈◊〉 to be •••• ow upon him; he opens to him 〈◊〉 the terms of the New Covenant, 〈◊〉 •• owes to him how he may come by a 〈◊〉 to all the precious promises that are 〈…〉 it, viz. by believing on him, and 〈◊〉 in with him, as Prophet, Priest, and 〈◊〉 of Salvation: Assures him, that in case 〈…〉 doth, he shall receive all his benefits 〈◊〉 drive from him, and must go with 〈◊〉 , Rom. 4.32. That he shall receive 〈◊〉 , Pardon of Sin, Peace with God, the ••••• ption of a Son, all Grace to serve 〈◊〉 , freedom from Condemnation, and an 〈◊〉 ••••• ce among those that are Sanctify'd. And 〈◊〉 assures him that if he neglect or reject this Offer and lavitation, be will not only lose all this Felicity, but 〈◊〉 to his Guilt, and incur the sever Condé 〈8 letters〉 for slighting so great S • lvation.

5. THE Spirit comes into the Soul together work the proposels, and brings the Union about. While the prop 〈7 letters〉 , and brings the U • i •• abous. While the treaty is outwardly manging. He applies himself inwardly, and makes it to become effectual. And here.

• (1.) HE moves a clear Illumination on the Understanding, wholly to discern the Empetness of every other Object, and the glorious Excellency of Christ. This saving Union begins with Light. The Eyes of the Understanding are opened, and the Discoveries that are now m • de are surpriting, Eph. 1.18, 19. He sees new the Vanity of everything else, which he sometimes thought of worth; and the Beauty of Christ, wherewithal he is suprized; and by virtue of this, he gives in a true Verdict, his judgment being rectifyed; and this is the Renovation in the image of his mind, Eph 4. • 3.
• (2.) HEREWITHAL He plants all his saving Graces in the Soul. That indeed is the New Creature, for it is ren • ed in righterssurss, and true holiness, Eph. 4.24. This is that which prepares the Soul to give Christ entertainment in it; for so long as •• at is unsanctifyed, or unregenerate, it can be to Habitation 〈◊〉 the •• lie One of Israel to take up his abode in, it being nothing else but a hovel of impurity; yea, this is that • hat is called the farming of Christ in us, Gal. 4.19. For we must not think that the Person of Christ individually dwells in us, as it doth in his own humanity, but he former his likeness in us, by infusing of all renewing Grace into us. And this is that which impowers us for the subsequents acts in which this Union is completed. For till the body of saving Grace be formed in us, we cannot put forth any act of Grace.
• (3.) TOGETHER with this, be draws forth the Act of the Soul, in which rene • ncing his league 〈◊〉 where objects, • e consents 〈◊〉 , believes in, and so ••••• ceth Christ as his 〈◊〉 . And this is the uniting act on our part, though wrought by the efficacy of the Spirit of God. He had put in a principle of faith before, and now • e draws it out and assists it. Now the man cas • s off his former trust on his Idols. He was glued to them, Hos. 4.17. Eph • a • m us j • ined to Idols: But now he will have nothing more to do with them, Chap. 14.5. Ephra •• shall say, What have I to do anymore with idols. Now he takes Christ as offered, receives him, according to the terris o • the Treaty held with him. And it is with, and in his wh • le Soul that he thus entertains him. He takes Christ for his own, and resigns himself up freely to Christ to be his. And this is that Covenant of Espousal mentioned, Hos. 2.18, 19.
• (4.) HEREWITH the Spirit takes up his abode in the Man; and having ro •• fyed the Union, establisheth it unalterably. It is therefore called an Everlasting Covenant, Isa. 55.3. And not to be broken; their whole Life is • now hid i • him, yea, he is their life, Col 3. 〈◊〉 . 4. His Sp •• it manageth them, his Grace invigorates them, his Image shines forth by them, they derive all their strength from him, and they return it all to him; they that • ouch them to hurt them, touch him, and he • eels and resents it; and they that dishonor him, would them, and they cannot beat it; such is the U • ion between them. Thus are we brought into a participation in the Redemption of Christ, and all the precious benefits flowing from it.

USE. I. LEARN be • ce the Dignity and Safety of all true Believers. Both of these necessarily flow from this Union. Needs must it b • a superlative Honor for •• ny Creature, much more sinful dust and ashes, to be advanced to so near a Conjunction with the Ever-blessed and Eternal Son. It was an Honor that he put upon out Nature, to assa • e it into his Person; but i • an high personal Hounour to us, that he will advance us to be Members of his ••• dy, to be of his Flesh and Bones, that he will p •• his Name upon us, and dwell in us. And how s •• n • e must the estate of every such Soul 〈◊〉 If Christ live, be must lite also; if Christ • e in Glory, so shall he too; not 〈◊〉 all the Powers of Earth and Hell ever 〈…〉 to undermine that Man's happiness, who is thus b • ist • upon this Rock of Ages.

USE. II. HENCE, L •• this be a 〈◊〉 Persuasive to Young and Oid, 〈◊〉 come 〈…〉 on Christ. Behold he invites you in • h •••• pel, and by his Ambassadors; and he i • •••• ing with you by his Spirit. He ••• ds a the Door and knocks, open to, and let him in, yield to the framing hand of the 〈◊〉 Spirit. Refist him • o • , quench him 〈◊〉 ••• ceive him, and he is yours; turn all 〈◊〉 other Levers out of doors; that you 〈…〉 for him and no other; so shall the King •• Glory come ••• o you, and take us his 〈◊〉 lasting abode in you; so shall that 〈…〉 tied, that Union be made between 〈◊〉 you, which shall abide to, and through •••• nity; through which shall derive to 〈…〉 those Blessings which shall make • on 〈◊〉 through Time and Forever. Ta •• him ••• in his most earnest Offer, least if you 〈◊〉 him, you rue it when it is too late 〈◊〉

SERMON CXV.