A Treasury of Similes

Accusation.

AS fire cast into the water, is quickly quenched; so a false Accusation against an honest life, is soon extinguished.

Adversity.

As a wise Pirate and governor of a ship, will in a calm and fair weather look for a storm: even so every wise man, in time of peace and prosperity, will prepare his mind for Adversity.

2 As a man or beast that suddenly falleth into a deep quagmire, whereof he can find no bottom, must needs perish, except there be some at hand to draw him out: so he that falleth into extreme Adversity, except God do help him out, must needs be therein overthrown and perish.

3 Even as in Winter, when it is exceeding cold, and in Summer, when too much heat inflameth all things, great thunder and lightnings are seldom heard and seen, but in the spring-time and harvest when the air is clear and calm, then chiefly they burn and strike where they light: So great calamities and bitter troubles, do lie in wait for prosperity: they seek not after them which in a low and mean estate do labor and take pains in heat and cold, and all storms else, but those do they most suddenly wound, overthrow and consume, as it were with fire, which in a calm spring-time, and harvest of prosperity, are drunken with pride, and too too insolent with vain glory of the world, and are set upon the top of vanity it self.

4 As the seed is more fruitful that hath been covered with snow: and the fire burneth faster, that hath been pressed down with the wind: So are the hearts and souls of true Christians bettered by Adversity.

5 As Mariners, who if they be once in the haven, are the greatest drunkards, blasphemers, whore-masters & licentious persons that may be: but if they be upon the sea in any peril and danger of their lives, there was never Hermit, no not Paul nor Hilarion so holy in words, so austere in life, and devout in prayers, as they are. Jonah. 1.4, 5: Even so we in like manner, are never so humble and lowly minded in prosperity, as we are in Adversity: for if we be well and at our ease, we think of nothing but of sporting and playing: we spend the time in carding and dicing, in dancing and making merry: we study in the morning, what new pastime we may have all the day following: and we are never so much afraid of anything, as that we should want time and health; never thinking upon the shortness of our days, and the small time we have to live here, so long as we are in health and jollity.

The chief cause of Atheism.

AS there is small hope to be conceived of that Patient which being grievously sick, will neither feel his disease, nor believe that he is distempered, nor abide to hear of physic, or Physicians, nor accept of any counsel that should be offered, nor admit any talk or consultation about his curing: So likewise those men, that inordinately love the world, which bringeth them to hate God, and to conceive enmity against him; are in more dangerous estate then any other, for that they know not their own danger; but persuading themselves to be more wise then their neighbors, do remove from their cogitations all things whereby their health and salvation may be procured. 1. John 2.15, 16.

God's Anger.

1 AS the course of a stream being stopped, it gathereth a great damme, and being let suddenly go, it overthroweth all in his way: Even so God's anger, being stayed a time, the windows in heaven being opened, it will (shortly it is to be feared) pour down on our heads plentifully, for the manifold sins that reign in every estate, throughout our whole Land.

2 As the wet wood, although it be long in burning, yet will burn faster at the last: So the Anger of God, although it be long in coming, yet it will come the fiercer at the last. Psal. 51.9. &c.

3 As Water is deepest, where it is the stillest: So where God is most silent in threatening, and patient in sparing, there he is most inflamed with Anger, and purpose of revenge: & therefore the fewer that the judgments be that are poured forth upon the wicked in this life, the moe are reserved in store for them in the life to come.

4 Like as a man living in health, wealth, and all manner of pleasure, should have this of a sudden made known unto him, that he is condemned of treason committed against his Prince and Country, and that therefore he is forthwith to be deprived of life, and of all those pleasures which he doth enjoy, there being no hope of pardon which cannot possibly be procured by himself or any other, it depending wholly in the gracious favor and free inclination of the Prince, who useth to be greatly inflamed with anger against all such offenders, and not to spare one of a thousand of them: we cannot fully conceive in mind, or express in word, the greatness of his grief, sorrow and fear. Even so, much more grievous and fearful a thing it will be, to incur the displeasure and Anger of God, the loss of eternal joy and happiness, together with those endless pains which are prepared for the wicked.

Affliction.

1 LIke as if a sheep stray from his fellows, the shephard sets his dog after it, not to devour it, but to bring it in again: even so our heavenly shepherd, if any of us his sheep disobay him, he sets his dog of Affliction after, not to hurt us, but to bring us home, to consideration of our duty towards him: Now his dogs be Poverty, Banishment, Sickness, evil Rulers, Dearth, Death, War, loss of Goods, or Friends. &c.

2 As a vessel when it is foul, must be scoured and cleansed before any good liquor be put in it: or as he that would have his ground to be fruitful, must first pull up the weeds before he sow good seed: even so the Lord our good God doth by Afflictions, as it were by sharp medicines, and chastisements, purge our bodies, to the end, that our minds may bring forth her due fruit in fear and reverence.

3. Like as the Palme-tree, whē there is a great weight laid on it, spreadeth and flourisheth the broader: or as a Camomell with treading and walking on it waxes thicker: even so a faithful Christian, the more Afflliction and persecution he suffereth for his Christ, the more is his faith increased.

4. Like as the Schoolmaster corrects not his scholar, nor the father his child, but for some fault, and for their amendment: even so no more doth God send his plagues and chastisements upon his children, but to put them in remembrance of their disobedience towards him, & that they should turn to him. But if the lewd scholar, or unthrifty son, do not regard the correction laid upon him, nor consider the greatness of his fault, nor the displeasure of his father, there is no goodness to be hoped for of him: Even so is it with such as lightly, or else not at all, consider their lives past, God his dealing with them, and how evil and untowardly things have prospered with them, during the time that they have displeased God, and been afflicted. Agge. 1.5.6. Pro. 16.7.17. Deut. 28.1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10.

5. As the ashes cast vpō the fire put it not out, but is a mean to preserve the same in the night against the morning, which otherwise would be consumed: or as the barrenness of the trees in winter, are a mean to preserve the root against summer, which then will ascend up his juice into the body and branches thereof, whereby they are greatly enlarged, and made far more fruitful then ever they were before: Even so are Afflictions unto the children of God, which do not only keep them from the barrenness of sin, but also increase and multiply them in the life and fruitefulnesse of Cods holy spirit, and exerciseth them in patience and hope. Rom. 5.3, 4, 5.

6. As Frankencense when it is put into the fire, giveth the greater perfume: or as Spice if it be pounned and beaten, smelleth the sweeter: as the Earth, when it is torn up with the plough, becometh more fruitful: the Seed in the ground, after Frost and Snowe, and winter storms, springeth the rancker: the nigher the Vine is pruned to the stock, the greater grape it yieldeth: the Grape when it is most pressed and beaten, maketh the sweetest Wine, &c. Linnen when it is buckt, and washed, and wroong, and beaten, is so made fairer and whiter: Even so the children of God, receive great benefit by persecution; for by it, God washeth, and scowreth, schooleth and nourtereth them: that so through many tribulations they may enter to their rest. Pro. 3.11.12. Reve. 3.19.

7. Like as they that go about to make Lions tame, do use to beat little whelps before them, and to make them to couch, that so the Lions seeing, they may do so also: Even so, oftentimes God chasteneth and correcteth his dear servants, that those that be stiffnecked and rebellious, should by their example, learn subjection and obedience.

8. Like as a Physician, who goeth about to cure his sick Patient, doth first promise him health (by the assistance & help of God) whereby he putteth him in great hope and comfort: afterwards he beginneth to purge, to cleanse and strengthen, and such like things, which make to the recovering of his health: Even so our good God also, when he hath remitted and pardoned our sins, and received us into the bosom of grace, and promised us life, which were before sick to death in our sins, doth lay on us Afflictions, and so doth scour and renew us from day today, in the knowledge and love of him, until we become safe, pure, and renewed, which then at the last cometh to pass, when this mortal body dieth.

9. As the precious stone called Amianthon, being cast into the fire, is made more clearer and purer: So the children of God, being cast in the fire of troubles and Afflictions, do shine more clearer and beautiful.

10. As the Gold-smith putteth his Gold into the fire, not to mar it, but to purge the dross out of it: or as the Husbandman, who when his corn is somewhat too rank, either moweth it down, or else eateth it with his sheep: and so he doth prune his Vines, not to destroy them, but to make them bring more abundant fruit: Even so the Lord doth try his children, by laying his cross upon their necks, and purgeth them like Gold in the fire, he cutteth from them many occasions of evil, that he may bring them to the bearing of greater and more plentiful fruit. John. 16.20. Act. 14.23. 2. Timo. 3.12. 1. Pet. 4.12.13.

11. It fareth with God's children, as it happeneth to the children of the household. All the while they are young and little, they are as the Apostle saith, subject and under Tutors and Governors, and many times the servants beat them, as though they were their masters, and that the children were their subjects, because that the time is not yet come, that the Seigniorie of the children ought to be manifested. But when the children are great, they abide heirs of the house, and the varlets and servants depart, and all the labor of the servants, and that which they have gotten, shall continue and abide with them: Even so, we all the while we are in this world, are in this state: for that it doth not yet appear what we shall be. But it is with us as it was with David, before the death of Saul. David was anointed and ordained of God, King of Israel: yet nevertheless, he could not enjoy peaceably his Kingdom, till after the death of Saul: but he was as the most miserablest which was in Israel, chased and persecuted on every side: But yet in the ende, he reigned King, maugre his enemies: and all that which Saul and his adherents did unto David, was turned to the good and profit of David. 1. King. 2.1. &c. Psal. 7.1. 1. Sam. 26.1. &c.

12. As a piece of Brasse being stricken with a hammer upon the Anvil or stythie, breaketh, and withal, maketh a sharp and irksome noise: So when an Hypocrite cometh betwixt the Anvil and the hammer of troubles and Affliction, he breaketh with impatiency, he murmureth, crieth out, and lamenteth in blasphemies against God.

13. As a piece of Gold being smitten with the hāmer on the stithie, soundeth sweetly, and is pliable, and may be beaten out in breadth and length as a man would have it: Even so the child of God in time of persecution, giveth him thanks, and submitteth himself, laying out his own heart willingly under the Lord's hand that striketh him.

14. As the Sea if it were not tost with the winds would stink: Even so the godly man, if he were not exercised with troubles and Afflictions, would be the worse.

15. As the Mosse called Ros-solis, though the heat of the Sun lie upon it all the day, yet the hotter the Sun is upon it, the moyster it is: So the godly in Affliction, &c.

16. As the father doth improperly punish his child for his fault, but properly and chiefly he respecteth his amendment, and to have him to leave his former leaude ways, and to take a better course hereafter: but the child for his part, when he is beaten, must first consider his fault in saying: This correction is for my lewd behavior: and so endeavor to amend, and to do better afterwards: Even so God, in correcting us, doth not properly respect our sins, but our reformation, but we our selves must find out a proper cause, that is, our sins. For although that sin is the beginning, even of all bodily diseases and chastisements, yet it doth not follow, that God always respecteth their sins, whom he most sharply punisheth, as may appear by the answer of Christ to his Disciples. &c. John 9.1, 2.

17 As a painful and careful Husbandman, looketh diligently to all points of his business, and bestoweth his industry and labor in each respect, as the time and season affordeth, and as the nature and quality of every grain requireth, in hope thereby, to receive a good increase and plentiful crop: Even so God trieth each way by Afflictions, to draw and bring all men of all sorts and conditions in this Theatre of the world, to acknowledgement of their duties, and desire of their salvation.

18 Like as the Husbandman, after he hath plowed up his land & sowed it, doth afterward harrow it, and break the hard clods thereof; and after this, reapeth, thrasheth, fanneth, and searceth the chaff from the corn: and as he cutteth, pruneth and loppeth his trees, and keepeth them under, least they should grow rugged, or spread their boughs too far out of course and order: and finally, as he graffeth, planteth and teacheth his young Sients to be naturalized in another stock then their own: So likewise doth God deal with men in this world, punishing and afflicting, some with losses, hindrances, and other tokens of his hidden judgment, for the better trial of their patience and constancy; some (though evil and wicked persons) he tollerateth, spareth, and (as it were) winketh at, in hope of their conversion and amendment. Deut. 8.2, 3. Judge. 10.13, 15, 16. & 11.31.

19 As children take patiently correction at their fathers hand, though sometime it be preposterous and otherwise then it should be: Even so we ought to take that cross and Affliction patiently, which God layeth upon us, knowing that he always doth it for our good and comfort.

20 As it is a common thing to try gold and silver by fire: Even so it should not seem strange to the children of God to be tried by Afflictions.

21 Like as there is nothing in heaven that pleaseth God so well, as that honorable obedience that his Saints do give him in heaven: So there is nothing upon the earth so acceptable unto him, as when his Saints upon earth are ready to suffer for his sake. Phil. 4.5. 2. Tim. 2.3.

22 As the Jews led our Savior Christ to be crucified, they met one Simon of Cyren, the father of Alexander and Rufus, and upon him they laid the Cross: So likewise if any Affliction be laid upon us for Jesus Christ his sake, we must be well contented to carry the same, as Simon of Cyren was to bear the Cross. Matthew 16.24.

23 As there were two Crosses prepared for our Savior Christ, the one of passion, as that wooden and material Cross, whereon his body suffered outwardly, the other of compassion, whereby his soul suffered inwardly: So there is prepared a double cross for every faithful Christian, the one of the soul, the other of the body.

24 As good Jesus was crucified by the bad Jews: so also hath God decreed that his children shall be afflicted in this world, least they should be damned with this world. 1. Cor. 11.32.

25 As the Ark of Noah rose higher and higher by the swelling of the waters of the flood: Even so the minds of the righteous are brought nearer and nearer to God by persecution and Affliction.

26 As blowing seemeth to disperse the flames and trouble them, but yet maketh them burn more clear: Even so Affliction though it be grievous to the flesh, yet it purgeth it of many sins, and maketh the godly far more excellent.

27 As there is no comparison of one little water-drop, to the whole huge Sea, or of one small grayne of dust to the mountain Imaus: Even so the light and short afflictions and troubles of this most short race, are not worthy to be compared with the great and eternal glory of the life to come. 2. Cor. 4.17.18. Rom. 8.18.

28 As in the fining pot, the goldsmith trieth the silver: So likewise doth God by troubles and affliction try the hearts of men.

29 As a servant working abroad in the hot Sun, longeth for, and is glad of the cool shade: So men in Affliction and misery are glad of a little ease.

30 Like as if two children should fight, and a man coming by, should parte them, and after beat the one, and let the other go free; every man that seeth this will say, that that child which he beats is his own son: Even so when God chastiseth us, he showeth himself unto us as a father, if we submit our selves.

31 As great and mighty fishes, are not bred and fed in small rivers and sweet waters, but in the salt and bitter waters of the Seas: So men that are excellent & very famous by reason of the notable and manifold virtues wherewith they be endued, are not delighted in the false and deceitful pleasures of this world, but are nourished, and as it were, sweetly cherished and brought up in Christ, with very sour sorrows, and bitter calamities, which they endure, & most patiently bear for God's sake.

32 As to a valiant Soldier, nothing is more noble and worthy praise, then to carry the Armor and arms of his Prince: So a true Christian man, esteemeth nothing of greater valure and more honorable, then to bear the arms and badges of Christ his Captain; that is, to be thoroughly touched with great crosses & many Afflictions, and to be well armed with godly patience. Gal. 6.17. 2. Tim. 3.12.

33 As a Phisitiō doth minister to his sick patients, sour and bitter potions to drink, that some hurtful humor of their bodies may be expelled: So God our heavenly father and Physician, willing to cure the maladies, and to salve the sores of our souls, doth reach unto us many times, the cup of Afflictions, troubles and miseries, that (our sins and iniquities being taken away) we may be restored to the former salvation of our souls.

34 As he that would mortify his greatest sins, must begin to do it with small sins; which, when they are once reformed, a man shall be able more easily to overcome his master sins: So likewise, he that would be able to bear afflictions, and the cross of all crosses, namely, death it self, must first of all, learn to bear small crosses, as sicknesses in body, and troubles in mind, with losses of goods, and of friends, and of good name: which may fitly be termed little deaths, and the beginnings of death it self; & so he must first of all acquaint himself with these little deaths, before he can well be able to bear the great Death of all.

35 Even as he that hath a Son, which is in good and perfect health, and a servant that is exceeding sick, dealeth more roughly and severely with his son, then with his servant, not because he loveth his servant more then his son, but because he would (if it might be) restore his sick servant to his former health: but his son whom he loveth most dearly, he reproveth, checketh, taunteth, and correcteth: Even so our loving God sometimes afflicteth his dear children, whom he most tenderly loveth, and doth suffer them to be exercised with wants, with hunger and cold, with weepings and wailings, with sighs and sorrowful sobs, with nakedness and want of harbor, with heaviness of heart, & vexation of soul, with sickness of body, and want of liberty, and with a thousand other calamities and cares; and in the mean time suffereth the wicked and ungodly ones of the world, to want nothing, he giveth them health, wealth, and liberty, worldly honor and dignity, and what not? meaning and purposing by these means (if the fault be not in themselves) to bring them to know, to fear, to honor and to serve him, by whose providence and appointment they have and enjoy all those good blessings, and so be cured and healed of the sores and sickness of their souls.

36 As the skillful pearl seller, and cunning lapidarie, doth willingly suffer the Indian diamond or adamant, to be smitten and stricken with great and weighty blows, because he knoweth well, that the hammer and anuill will sooner be bruised, then the diamond or adamant will be broken: So likewise our most wise God, yea, only wisdom it self, suffereth men of excellent virtues, of unquenchable love and charity, and invincible constancy, to fall into diverse temptations, and great afflictions, and to be plunged deep into manifold miseries, because he will have their inward graces to break out and so shine before men, that they seeing the constancy of his Saints, may glorify God which is in heaven.

37 As a Mother that waines her child, layeth wormwood or some other bitter thing upon her breast to make the child loathe the milk: So likewise God makes us often feel the miseries and crosses of this life, that our love and liking might be turned from this world and fixed in heaven.

38 As raw flesh is loathsome to the stomach: so is every sinner and unmortified man loathsome unto God, till the Lord by Afflictions mortify in him the corruptions of his nature, and specially the love of this world.

39 As Horses that are headstrong, and either keep not their right pace, or turn out of the way, be rained and kept in with the bridle: So the Lord bringeth us back from our headinesse by one Affliction, calamity or other. 1. Cor. 11.32.2. Cor. 1.4.

40 Like as if any shrewde child purpose to fly from his school-master, or refuseth to keep the school diligently, there are messengers straightway sent for him to bring him back: So likewise God dealeth with us, who sendeth his messengers, to wit, troubles, the pestilence, and other diseases, to bring us back to himself. Heb. 12.6.

41 As a Master can in no wise be said to hate his scholar when he fetcheth him into the school with his rod from playing the treuant: even so, no more doth God hate us, when he calleth us back from our leaude ways by his correction. Psal. 5.4.5.

42 As in a house where there are many children the rod is necessary: or as in a City subject to diverse diseases, and where there is an evil air, Physicians are needful: So likewise in the house of God, where there are many childrē inclined to evil, the rod of Affliction is many times more necessary then bread. Psal. 119.67.71.

43 As a mad man is angry with the Physician, chaseth him away, and throweth away the medicine: but a wise man that is sick of a corporal disease, sendeth for the Physician, taketh drink at his hand, thanketh him, yea and giveth him a reward: So when God the sovereign Physician of our souls, visiteth us with Afflictions, and giveth us wholesome medicines, we must not be like mad men, rejecting the hand of God, but receiving the medicine, we must give him thanks, and bless him, after the example of Job. Job. 1.21.22.

44 As corn that is shut up and closed in the husk, and the chaff cometh not forth if the ear be not beaten, and so tarrieth still in the chaff if it be not fanned: Even so the like happeneth to the children of God, if they be not beaten and fanned by tribulations, to be separated from the chaff of the world, and the pleasures and impediments that be in it.

45 As the beasts that go by the way, and see on the side of them fair fields, assaying to go to them, & running upon the hedges of thorns, if they feel the sharp pricks, they go back and return into the way: So likewise, whē the children of God go out of the right way to heaven, to go to the fields of this world and of the flesh, God maketh them to come upon the thorns of Afflictions, to the ende, that by their prickings they may turn back again. Hose. 2.6.

46 As gold, by fire is severed, and parted from dross: so singleness of heart, and true Christian simplicity, is best seen, and made most evident, in troubles and Afflictions: In prosperity every man will seem godly, but Afflictions do draw out of the heart, whatsoever is there, whether it be good or bad. Psal. 26.2.

47 As the obedience of Christ in the cross was a grateful sacrifice to God: So our obedience in all Afflictions and troubles, pleaseth God, not for it self, but in respect of faith, whereby it is severed from the punishments of the ungodly, is laid upon the altar of Christ, through touching of whom it is sanctified, and accepted of God. Job. 19.25.

48 As myrrh, notwithstanding it be sharp and bitter, yet it healeth wounds, and preserveth from putrifaction: So the cross and troubles of the Saints, though it be irksome to the flesh, and grievous, yet it destroyeth not, but healeth rather.

49 Like as when a mother willing to wean her child, shall say unto him, night and day: My child, it is time to wean thee, thou art grown great enough, and I am with child, my milk is corrupt, it will make thee sick; yet he is so fond of the breast, that he cannot forsake it: but if the mother put wormwood or mustard upon the breast, the child sucking it, and feeling the bitterness, he quite forsaketh it, without sucking anymore: Even so, though God's Preachers preach unto us, and exhort us to forsake the corrupt milk of the world, and of the flesh, yet we seem deaf still, and are always backward, until God put upon these cursed teates, the mustard and worm-wood of afflictions to wean us.

50 Like as when we see the Carpenters strike with their axes upon pieces of wood, to square it or plane it: and Masons to polish stones with the strokes of an hammer: we gather that these are stones and timber, which the master would employ to some building: Even so let us conclude of our selves, that if God list up upon us the axes and hammers of Afflictions to polish us: it is a manifest and sure testimony, that he hath chosen us to put in the building of his temple; and that so we are his children both well beloved and happy. Heb. 12.6. 1. Pet. 4.17.

51 As he that despiseth the word and Sacraments, despiseth them not only, but the Lord, who is the author of them: Even so he that cannot away with Afflictions and temptations, either of body or mind, but counteth them miserable, and not to be suffered, despiseth them not only, but the Lord himself, who hath appointed them as means to work in us that excellent virtue of patience. I am. 11.2.3.

52 As the Goldsmith knoweth how much dross he hath, and how much clean and fine gold, by the trying of it in the fire: Even so we shall know what portion of faith the Lord hath given to us by Afflictions and troubles, and what dross and imperfections remain in us, as infidelity, which when we know perfectly, we must learn by the word of God, and so heartily and earnestly pray him to redress it.

53 As Myrrh doth keep men's bodies from corrupting, and preserveth them from putrifaction, and rottenness: Even so it is most true in the children of God, that Afflictions and calamities, taken & borne patiently, do profit & prevail much to keep their souls from the corruption and canker of grievous evils. John. 16.20.21. 2. Cor. 1.8. Reve. 7.14.

54 Even as a bitter potion, is not said to be unprofitable, nor without hope, when health & soundness doth follow, although it be exceeding bitter to him that taketh it: so sharp and pinching Afflictions, troubles and calamities, wherewith the Lord doth exercise his children now and then, are not to be counted idle and in vain, when some peace of conscience, and comfort unto our souls do follow, that when the justice of God is seen, many may be amended, and the faith and patience of many may be tried. For nothing is more available for the advancing of the praise and commendation of true virtue, then calamity it self, taken and borne patiently for Christ's sake.

55 As the entangled bird cannot escape out of the net that cōpasseth her: evē so no more can we wind our selves out of those Afflictions that God layeth upon us. Lament. 1.13.

56 Like as a man that hath two sons, the one an earnest lover of virtue, strong in body, and of a mighty courage: the other depraved, and of crooked disposition, inclined to effeminate pleasures & wanton delights, weak in body, and of little or no courage: the first he sendeth out to wars, and doth adventure him in perils and dangers of all sorts, that he may exercise & acquaint him with the labors, troubles & toiles of the world: the other he cockereth, and maketh too much of him, he suffereth him to have all things at his will, he is kept at home, and (as it were) dandled upon his mothers lap: but at the last, he that in all his affairs and dangerous adventures, did in every point quite himself like a man of great valor and noble courage, received together with great praise, and deserved honor, a most high and noble reward: but he that was pampered and cockered at home, had neither praise, reward, nor honor: Even so our heavenly father doth lead men that are strong and constant in faith, through diverse and sundry perils and dangers, & doth draw them as it were with his own hand, through bitter anguishes, great perplexities, and narrow sleights of calamities, miseries, and temptations, and doth continually exercise them with fearful combats, against the enemies of their souls, and through many and great labors, infinite sturdy storms and bitter blasts doth strengthen and confirm them, in virtue and godliness: but the frail and wicked men of the world, & such as are mere natural, without any delight or comfort in his word, and are no whit seasoned nor cheered with the dew of his grace, and his most blessed spirit, he permitteth them to be in great prosperity, and to have all things at their will and pleasure, without smarting, sighing, sobing, and groaning, for want or lack of anything, that their hearts can devise or desire: but at the length in the end of the day, they that have striven hard, and fought manfully, and have in battle overcome the flesh, the world, and the devil, shall be received into endless salvation, everlasting life, & eternal glory: & they which have laid down their heads, and slept in the bosoms of worldly pleasures, and have slumbered in foul and filthy idleness, never caring, nor thinking, what will follow, nor remembering the dreadful day of judgment, when the wicked shall hear their damnation denounced by Christ, they then shall be utterly condemned, reprobated, and cast into everlasting and endless miseries. Then shall most plainly be seen and felt, the loss that fleshly pleasures bring, and the profit of Afflictions, and crosses carried and borne for our Savior Christ his sake.

57 As Wheat or other corn and grain, laid up and kept in a garner, seller or chamber, if it be not stirred and dressed with a shouel or fan, will be full of corruption, lose the sweet savor, wax unwholesome for man's body, and will be consumed of weeuelles: Or as apparel orgarments being laid close up in a press, or other place, if they be not much shaken, beaten, and tossed, will be eaten and spoiled with moathes: Even so Christians, if they be not tried with temptatious, & throghly exercised with calamities & miseries, will be very quickly mōstrously corrupted, and will grow to be so rotten in all manner of sin and iniquity, that they will shrink & fall quite from the Lord: but being well proved, canuased and throghly tried, with many crosses, afflictions, & troubles, one following in the neck of another, they become the firmer, stronger, and more constant, in the faith, fear, and love of • od, and so manfully fighting, & courageously overcoming the adversaries and enemies of their souls, they shall at the length be crowned with an everlasting crown of eternal glory. 2. Timo. 2.3.5. 1. Cor. 10.13.

58 As a father giveth unto his son whom he loveth dearly, a breast-plate or stomacher, very costly, and curiously wrought, of silk, silver, or gold, to wear vndersome other garment, doth suffer his uppermost garment, as doublet or coat, to be pinkt and cut in diverse places, that the under costly work may outwardly appear and be seen of all: Even so our heavenly Father, a God of compassion & mercy, yea the God of all comfort, doth sometimes suffer that man whom he most dearly loveth, to be wounded of the wicked, and to be smitten with calamities and miseries, to the end that the precious and golden breast-plate of patience, wherewith the Lord hath inwardly endued him, should outwardly appear, and be seen of all. Reve. 3.19. Math. 5.10.11. Rom. 3.4.5.

59. As the waters which were very bitter in Marah, after that the wood was thrown thereinto, became sweet: So there can no cross or Affliction happen to the Saints of God in this life, but it becometh most pleasant, if the wood of the cross of Christ be added as asauce, but if that be taken away, the waters become bitter and unsavory, that is, every trouble is very sower and intolerable, unless it be tempered as it were with the Cross of Christ.

60 As the bush that Moses saw, was not consumed with fire: So neither do the weapons or cruelty of enemies consume Christians, although they be mightily beset round about of the wicked.

61 Like as when trees be hewn down, much moe imps do spring up, then the boughs were that were cut off: So now after the slaughter of many godly men, moe did run unto the Gospel, and that day by day, then ever did; yea, and the blood of the slain bodies was a certain watering of the new plants springing up in the Church: So that a Martyr in suffering, doth not suffer for himself alone, but also for every man. For himself he suffereth to be crowned: for every man he suffereth, to give them an example: for himself to his rest: for every man to their welfare.

62 As the entangled fowl cannot escape or wind him self out of the net that compasseth him: Even so no more can we wind our selves out of those Afflictions that God layeth upon us. Lamen. 1.13.

63 As the fluttering of the snared bird holdeth her faster then before: So likewise our struggling and murmuring against God in our Afflictions, availeth us nothing at all; but rather we must take patiently whatsoever he doth lay upon us, and seek unto him alone for release by earnest prayer, who only can deliver us.

64 As the grapes cannot fly from the treader of the wine press: Even so no more can we escape God's hand in punishing and afflicting of us. Lamen. 1.15, 16. because there is no place to fly from his presence. Psal. 139.7, 8.

65 Like as salt preserveth flesh that it do not putrefy, and the drawing plaster searcheth and purgeth that part of the body, which is sore, least through corrupt matter it pine away: Or as the hot iron, being put thereunto, burneth out and consumeth whatsoever should hinder the recovery thereof: So likewise doth Affliction and tribulation (least we should wax rotten in the filthiness of sin) draw us back from the renewing of sin, taketh away the delight of resting in evil, quencheth the fire of lust, and easily plucketh out of a good heart, whatsoever is an impediment to the good health of the mind.

Even as by long boiling of gold, which is thrown into the furnace, any other corrupt thing mixed therewith, is tried out, and taken from it: Like so, through affliction and adversity, both the delight we have in creatures, the flattering we make of our selves, the confidence we have in men, and whatsoever else is not pure, vanisheth away, and is put from us: and the mind thereby wholly bent upon God, of whom it waiteth to obtain a quietness.

66 As the courageous horse, shows by his prauncing, and all other tokens of fierceness, how unwillingly he abideth his rider, yea, he throws him off, if he can, and yet nevertheless is brought under, will he or no: and as the gentler horse, more quietly suffers his rider, turns what way soever he appointes him, and lets himself be tamed: Even so the wicked, when God doth try them with affliction and misery, with pensiuenesse and with adversity, they spurn against it, although they nothing prevail: and being impatient of their misfortune, make resistance all that ever they can: but the godly sort stoop to God, suffer them selves to be ruled, and with all humbleness of mind, yield to the will of God: through which it comes to pass, that as the one sort reaps no fruit through their impatience; so the other by their sufferance, depart with exceeding great profit and commodity.

67 As one and the same Sun hardeneth mire, and yet melteth wax: Even so in a manner doth Affliction make good men become the better, and evil men the worse.

68 Like as the Musition straineth his strings, and yet he breaketh none of them, but maketh thereby a sweeter melody and better concord: So God through affliction and trouble, destroys not those which be his own, but makes them better, and more pliable unto the fruition and enjoying of the life to come.

69 As the Mason heweth out stones, which he maketh fit for building of his house, graves them and squares them, before he lay and join them to the building: Even so through Affliction, doth God turn, try, exercise, and prepare before hand, his elect, with whom, as with lively stones, he purposeth to build the habitation of God: he siftes them, as corn with a fan, winnowes them from the chaff, and puts them aside into his chest, before he lay them up in his heavenly barn.

70 As the seed of the harvest, which is covered with frost, increaseth more fruitfully: and as the flame with blowing is kept under, to the intent it may increase and be made greater: So doth God through affliction, trouble, and adversity, more vehemently ravish our minds, stirs them up, and increases them, with a longing for him.

71 Like as if a sheep run from his fellows, the shepherd sets his dog after it, not to devour it, or hurt it, but to bring it in again: So our heavenly Shepherd, if any of us his sheep disobey him, he sets dis dog of affliction after us, as poverty, sickness, evil rulers, dearth, death, war, loss of goods, or friends, &c. not to hurt us, but to bring us home to a right consideration of our duty towards this our heavenly father and most kind Shepherd.

72 Even as Christ (whom in Baptism we put on) was baptized with the Cross: So we also, as long as we remain in this world, must prepare our selves to the cross and adversities.

73 Even as the conscience assenteth to the Law, reproving sin: So also by the Cross, we are admonished to repent, that we may be saved.

74 As the goldsmith intending to make precious and excellent vessels fit for the use of great Kings, doth cast his gold into the fire, that so it may become pure from all dross; So before that the faithful can be vessels of honor, fit for the service of God in the Kingdom of heaven, they must be cast into the furnace of Affliction, and there be weaned from the vain delights and pleasures of sin, yea tried to be sound in the profession of the faith, and corrected for their former misdemeanor.

75 As a tree which although it be removed out of one place unto another, yet flourisheth: so the Afflictions of the godly, turneth to their profit.

Admonition or wholesome precepts.

1 AS unto him that is diseased with the Kings Evil, honey is unpleasant and bitter, when as unto others the same is very sweet: So good and profitable admonition and wholesome precepts to godly men are most delectable, whereas unto those that are corrupted with affections, they be altogether sharp and unsavory.

Anger.

1 AS continual shogging doth much bruise and shake the body: So daily anger doth wound and mar the mind. Pro. 16.32.

2 As a child for want of experience, seeking with a sword to annoy others, woundeth himself: So Anger that intendeth to endammage others, is most hurtful to it self.

3 Like as according to the mind of Hipocrates, that sickness is most perilous, wherein the sick man altereth his countenance and hew: So likewise there is no disease of the mind more mischievous then Anger, for it altereth the voice and going of man, that he seemeth sometimes strange & unlike to himself. Pro. 14.17. Ephe. 4.31. Col. 3.8.

4 As the Mariners perceiving tempest at hand, do with anchors fasten their ship: So before the tempest of immoderate Anger do invade us, we ought with reason to stablish and fasten our mind. 1. Cor. 13.5.

5 Like as if a man blow a spark, he doth many times make a great star-fire; but contrariwise if he spitte on it, he quencheth it clean out: Even so if one speak proud boasting words to his enemy, he shall incense and provoke him to wrath, but if he entreat him kindly with fair speeches, he then shall pacify his Anger before it break out. Mat. 5.22. Rom. 12.19. Pro. 15.1, 18. Eph. 4.26, 26. Col. 3.8.

6 Like as if a man join fire to fire, he maketh the flame the greater: Even so if a man think to suppress another man's Anger by being angry himself, he shall both loose his labor, and rather increase the other man's Anger.

7 As vinegar corrupteth a vessel if it be long in it: So Anger doth corrupt the heart, if it continue in it.

8 Like as we abhor drunkards, for that so long as they are drunken, they are without sense and understanding, differing nothing from brute beasts, but in shape & portraiture only: So in like manner for the same cause must we fly this choleric passion of Anger, which like a hot & fervent fever so troubleth our minds, that so long as we are possessed therewith, we cannot understand, much less speak anything that savoreth of reason.

9 As we account him a mad and a furious man, that would set fire on his own house: Even so may we think of him that setteth his own heart on fire, & burneth himself through anger, malice, and revenge.

10 As vinegar spoileth the vessel wherein it is kept: So doth Anger and choller mar him in whom it aboundeth.

11 As everyone abhorreth a wrangling and contentious person: and as everyone looketh carefully to fire for fear of harm: So likewise we should take heed of this chollericke passion of Anger, which is as a dangerous flaming fire, wasting and consuming whatsoever it toucheth, and cannot be quenched but with great difficulty, being once but a little kindled.

12 As fire when it is covered with ashes, yet it is not quenched: Even so Anger or choller, though it be dissembled, covered or retained in the heart a while, yet it is not so quenched, but it hatcheth hatred, which by little & little so converteth himself into his substance, as in short time it becometh inseparable from his nature.

13 Like as if we have but one child, we are loath he should be governed by a fool: So likewise we must consider that when we suffer our selves to be transported by Anger and choller, we commit our selves as it were to be ruled by a furious person.

14 Like as when our enemy inuadeth us, we seek to repulse and drive him back by all means possible, least he should set footing in our territories & land, and nestle himself near us; and if he be entered, we are careful so to impeach and remove him, that he fortify not himself: Even so in like manner we must make such bulwarks about our hearts, that Anger and choller may no way enter: but if it happen that it once entereth, and lieth secretly in the corners of our breasts, and that it surprise & set upon us on the sudden, or maketh way by force, we must forthwith devise all the ways we can to expel it, as soon as we may.

15 If we have eaten poison, we seek forthwith to vomit it up again with all speed, and if we be fallen into any disease, we use the means we can to provide a remedy: So likewise when we feel any unruly motions of Anger or choller, & the fiery flames thereof be once kindled in our hearts, we must be careful to repress and cool them, as we would be to quench the fire in our houses. Ephe. 4.26.

16 As wind in the body puffeth it up and maketh it to swell and seem great: Even so Anger puffeth up a man and maketh him so proud and arrogant, that he thinketh no device so good as his own, neither will he take any counsel of himself, during the heat of his fiery passion, nor yet receive any at other men's hands.

17 As they who seeing their houses on fire, understand not what is said unto them, by reason of the noise about thē, & the troublesome cogitations of their own minds: Even so angry & peevish persons are so senseless & void of reason, that they will not hearken to any good advice or counsel: so that if one speak gently unto them, they do not regard it: if he reprove them roughly, they are the more exasperated, and become more willful.

18 As many medicines do little profit if they be not applied after the fit be ended: So can we not comprehend any reason, if with the tumultuous and troublesome motions of Anger, our minds be molested and vexed.

19 As we use to deal with fire, which with great earnest endeavor we seek to quench, when as it first beginneth to kindle, not expecting or tarrying til it hath takē the beams and rafters of the house, or any solid matter, whereby it may be increased and strengthened: So in like manner we must not stay til we burn & flame with Anger, but as soon as ever we feel our selves disposed thereunto, and that the pulse of our hearts begins to beat more quick then is convenient, for a right & wholesome temperature.

20 As Plato having taken his man in a great fault, was of a sudden exceedingly moved, and having gotten a cudgel as though he would have beaten him, notwithstanding desisted, and used no further punishment: one of his friends standing by him, and seeing this thing, demanded of him, why he had gotten such a cudgel? to whom he answered, that he had provided it to correct and chastise his own Anger, which seemed to rebel against him, & would no longer be ruled by reason: In like manner should we do, when as we are troubled with this passion of Anger, & get either a knife or a sword to cut the throat of it, when it beginneth, and as it were in his infancy: for we may easily at the first oppose our selves against it, as against a tyrant, and not permit it to have rule over us, but if we suffer it to increase and to fortify it self, it will by little and little overrule us, and at length become invincible.

21 As they who have the falling sickness, to the ende that other should not see them fall groveling, & lie foaming at the mouth, showing a most strange and gastfull countenance, do withdraw themselves from all company: Even so we should get out selves out of all company, that so we might the more easily tame this furious passion of Anger, that so at length we might attain such a moderation and constancy of mind, that it cannot be altered with any occasion whatsoever.

22 Like as the Thebanes thought at the first that the Lacedemonians were invincible, & therefore durst not meddle with them, but after that they had overcome them once or twice, thē they thought they were able to conquer them, and that in set battails: So in like manner if we once take heart & think that we are able (being well armed with reason) to meet anger in the field & overcome it, we shall not need to encounter this enemy twice, for he will not be so hardie as appear the second time, or if he do, it will be to his utter overthrow and confusion.

23 As the covetous man thinketh, that if he once obtaineth that he desireth, he will then rest contented: so we think and imagine, that if we have uttered our Anger, our minds are satisfied: but as the desire of the one is nothing asswaged by the possession and increase of riches which he desireth, but rather augmenteth more then it was before: So likewise the poisoned stomach of the other, is nothing eased by outrageous and furious speeches, but rather they become more froward and perverse.

24 As fine gold doth suffer it self to be tried in the furnace six or seven times, and yet the heat of the fire doth never change his nature or color: Or as good corn is first threshed with the staile, and then winnowed in the wind, and yet is neither broken with the one, nor carried away with the other: Even so we should suffer our selves to be tried by injuries, oppressions, and other hard dealing, and yet not by impatiency through Anger or Choller, change our nature, or yet our color, or be carried away to any inconvenience.

25. As trees planted by running brooks, doth endure both winter and summer, whom the first hurteth not by his frosts & cold, nor the second by his heat and drought: Or as sheep that be thorn every year, and in the end be led to the slaughter, and suffer their throats to be cut, without gainsaying: or as incense doth permit it self to be cast into the fire: Even so should we through patience, being free from Anger, suffer our selves to be wrong & hardly dealt withal, that so we may the more manifest the faith which God hath given us.

26. As the ship that is well made, and sufficiently trimmed, neither the mighty winds, raging waves, or stormy tempests doth make it to leak: Or as the Palme tree, which though it be mightily loaden, yet never bendeth: or as our Savior Christ was whipped, mocked and crowned with thorns, yea and crucified too, & yet prayed fo • his enemies, who did him all this harm: Even so in like manner if we be once armed with this corslet of proof, (I mean patience) not only words and injuries, which are but as the points of the thorns, should not pierce us to be angry: but also the sharp arrows of Satan, his Lances and Pikes should never be able to touch or move us to the quick. Psal. 129.2, 3, 4.

27 As in eschewing evil, we follow that which is good: and contrariwise in running after vice, we slee from virtue: So likewise in • straunging our selves from pity and clemency, we by and by shake hands with Anger, which is always attended on by spite and envy.

Ambition.

1 AS worms engender sooner in soft and te • der wood, then in other that is more hard and knottie: and likewise as moathes do breed sooner in fine wool then in course flocks: Even so Ambition sooner assaulteth an excellent and rare man in all kind of virtue, then another which is not so virtuous. 3. John. 9. Mar. 9.34. Math. 20.20. Judge. 9.5. Psal. 30.6.7.

2 As those that tugge at the Ore in the Gallie, a man would judge them seeing their manner of doing, and how they stretch their arms forward, that they would go on and sails forthright, when with all their might they enforce themselves to draw backwards: Even so some being Ambitious and vainglorious, will yet nevertheless persuade, that they have nothing in greater detestation then Ambition and vainglory, when there is not anything whereof they are more desirous and greedy. Such in times past were the Pharisees; as are yet at this day many that hunt for livings and preferments, who have their hearts swollen and puffed up with Ambition, which they cloak and color under the vizard and outward show of humility.

These may be fitly resembled to Antisthenes, who on a time walked in the common place at Athens, with a cloak all torn and tattered, to the end that everyone beholding him so poorly appareled, might judge that he did it through humility, and not for lack of goods, because he was a man well esteemed, and of good reputation.

But Socrates having discovered by the readiness of his good understanding and judgment, the Hypocrisy of this Philosopher, said aloud, that he saw his Ambition through the holes of his cloak. Diogenes also entering on a time into Plato his chamber, and seeing his bed very finely made (because being of a civil and Gentlemanlike nature, he was neat and hansome in his moveables, apparel, and gestures; and to be short, in all his conversation) he went and wallowed himself like a Swine upon it, saying that he trampled down Plato's pride: but Plato answered readily, that this was done with greater pride. For all is not gold that glistereth, as is commonly said.

3. As Icarus, who taking upon him to fly with wings made of wax, when he came near the Sun his wings melted with the heat thereof, and so he fell into the sea, which of his name is yet called the Icarian sea: Even so the Ambitious, the higher they rise in glory, the more they approach the heat of God's wrath, and so do melt and fall into the gulf of eternal confusion. Act. 12.21. 1. Pet. 5.5.

4 As he that is condemned to be hanged, hath no liking of the Ladder, because he knoweth that the higher he climbeth, the nearer he is to his death, and therefore could be content the ladder should be either broken or burned, if he might have his desire: Even so ought we to detest Ambition and pride, and endeavor to deny and mortify the same, as knowing that to desire greatness, is to desire mishap, and that pride and arrogancy is the highest step where-from man is cast headlong into utter ruin. Math. 23.12. 2. Sam. 18.9. 2. King. 11.1.15.

5 As a man hath no cause to boast of his wickedness and misery: So in his virtues, doth his Ambition & pride grow, take increase and nourishment, causing him many times the more virtue he is endued with, the more to be proud.

6 As poison put into good and wholesome meat, maketh it mortal: so Ambition and pride taking occasion of God's graces to boast itself, doth by such sacrilege, turn us unto destruction.

7 As the Peacock so full of fair feathers, having only two foul feet, standing proudly in the circle and contemplation of his bewtiful trains, so soon as he seeth his feet, which he thinketh to be foul, straight humbleth himself, and abateth and seeketh to hide his feathers: even so much more ought every good Christian by the feeling sight, and apprehension of many his foul sins and vices, and corrupt and perverse passions that reign in him, to humble himself, and to abate his Ambition and pride, ingendered of a few feathers, which have only some small beginning and appearance of beauty.

8 As the more directly that the Sun lieth upon us, the less is the shadow of our body, as at noon we may see by experience, and a little before and after: Even so the less that we arrogate and ambitiously boast of our selves, the greater gifts and graces of God are we endued withal. 1. Cor. 4.7.

9 Like as men would laugh at a poor man, if having precious garments lent him to act and play the part of some honorable personage upon a stage, when the play were at an ende he should keep them as his own, and brag up and down in them: Even so, such are they to whom God imparteth his gifts and graces, when in lieu of yielding the praise and glory of the same to him that is the author and giver of them, they ambitiously assume and take it to themselves.

10 As a tree the higher it is, the greater force the wind hath of it, and every little blast will be puffing at it, so that the sooner and greater is the fall thereof: So the Ambitious man, the higher he climeth, the greater is his fall.

Of sumptuousness and excess in Apparel.

1 AS those that build fair Sepulchers for their dead corps, whereas it should be a warning to them that they must die, and thereupon cause them to reject all Ambition, pride and vanity, yet thereof they take occasion to vaunt and boast: So likewise whereas our garments should be a continual memory of sin, to humble us, yet we, as if we would even spite God do procure sumptuous and gorgeous Apparel, to testify our Ambition and pride.

2 As a Thief by law burned in the forehead for theft, ought so oft as he looketh in a glass and perceiveth the skarre thereof, to think upon and detest his inclination to that vice: So our garments being as the skarre in the forehead of our first parents, and our selves for their Ambition, in that they sought to be like unto God, should by the only sight of them, put us in mind to renounce all pride and Ambition. Gene. 3.7.21. Isaiah. 3.18.

3 As every seed bringeth forth herbs or fruit according to his kind: as Lettuce seed, Lettuce: Thistle seed, Thistles: Even so, if the heart be humble and modest, the garment for the body will be even so: but if the heart be proud and Ambitious, it will show forth some kind of excess and pride in Apparel, notwithstanding whatsoever laws to the contrary.

4 As the body being of more value then the garment, we will sell or pawn forth the garment, for to feed the body: Even so ought we to leave all affection to beautify our bodies, the better to tend to the adorning of our souls. 1. Pet. 3.3.4.5. 1. Timo. 2.9.

5 Like as if we dwell in a borrowed house, looking weekly when we must depart, we will never trouble our selves with any cost, or fitting of it, as we would do if we were sure to remain in it all the days of our lives: Even so, for so much as the body is but a house lent unto the soul, from whence it looketh daily to depart, there is no reason then why we should be so careful to clothe this body with brave and costly Apparel, which shortly must rot and perish, and so to neglect the soul which is immortal.

6 As men commonly do care to be more honestly apparrelled, when they are to meet at some banquet or marriage, or to come before some honorable personages, then ordinarily when they company with inferiors: Even so in like manner we, as concerning our bodies, do accompany with men like unto our selves: but as concerning our soul, with God and his Angels, to whom it is lifted up now by faith, but at death really: therefore, it is repugnant to all order and reason, to care more for the bewtifying of the body with sumptuous Apparel, then adorning of the soul.

7 Like as if a Taylor, when he hath made a garment a great deal too long and large, being reproved, shall have no excuse but that he had too much stuff: but this shift will not be accepted, for they would tell him, that he should have made the garment after the measure of the body, but not according to the quantity of the stuff. Even so they that have plenty of goods, and do not employ them after the measure of their vocation, and as beseemeth the profession of a reformed Religion, but wasteth them in superfluity and excess, do expose and set themselves to the scorn and grievous reprehension both of God and his Angels. Luk. 16.1.2. Sopho. 1.8.

Application of God's word.

1 AS Physicians do heal diverse diseases with diverse things as necessity requireth: So the word of God must be rightly applied according to the quality of the sins of the people.

2 As a careful and skillful Surgeon, who having Patients that are diseased with sundry grievous wounds and sores, and having provided drawing Plaisters and Corasiues for the same, doth not commit them to his Patients, that they should lay and apply them to their sores and wounds, least they should withdraw and keep back the same plasters from their sores and wounds, and so seek to free themselves from the smart and grief which would ensue and follow upon the laying to of the said plasters and corasiues to their festered sores and wounds; and therefore he will not trust them therewith, but doth himself both lay and apply the same plasters and corasiues to their sores, and will himself cut out the corrupt and rotten flesh that groweth in their wounds: Even so it is not enough that a Preacher should deliver unto his Auditors and Parishioners, a general doctrine, and so leave the application thereof to themselves, for (as it is commonly said) that that which is spoken to all, is spoken to none: but he ought so to apply his doctrine, that everyone of his hearers may have his portion, and thereby well perceive, that it is spoken to them. As the Prophets and Apostles have done. 2. Sam. 12.7. Act. 13.38.39. & 14.15. &c. & 26.19. &c.

3 As it is not possible that we can feed upon meat, except it be applied to our mouths: Even so much less is it possible, that our souls can be fed and nourished with the word of GOD, except it be skillfully applied thereto.

4 Like as if the food and meat be applied to any other part but to the mouth, the Application serveth not: Even so it is in spiritual things: if they be not applied to the right parts, and to the right diseases, the Application may do them more harm then good. 2. Tim. 2.15.

Armies or hosts of men.

AS a mighty tempest and storm of great hail stones, where they fall, do beat down and destroy all the fruits of the earth: Even so, the Armies and hosts of men, which God stirreth up to plague any people withal, do bear down and destroy all before them.

Allegories.

AS they are much deceived, which think that the stories in the Scripture do signify no other thing but that which was done: So likewise they are too rash and bold, that would draw all things to Allegories.

Adams disobedience.

1 AS a Physician being in good health, doth know diseases only by speculation, but when he is sick he doth better know them, because he doth both know them and feel them: Even so Adam, although he knew before what obedience and disobedience was, yet after the eating of the fruit, he did not only know but also felt what ill came by disobedience, and therefore his tree is called The tree of knowledge of good and evil: not because it giveth such knowledge of it self, but it is so called ab euentu, even as the tree of life is called the tree of life ab effectu: that is (as some Divines write) that the fruit of this tree did conserve the integrity of man's health, and the radical moisture that he should never be stricken with age, with wrinkles, with hore hairs, nor with any corruption, but should have remained in perpetual young age: Other there be, whose judgment is counted more true, that it is called the tree of life, not because it gave life unto man wherewith he was endued afore, but that it should be a Symbole, and a memorial of life taken of God.

Affliction is profitable.

1 AS the little Be gathereth the most sweetest honey out of the most bitter blooms and flowers: Even so men of wisdom and understanding, receive much utility and fruit of the present sorrow and Affliction. Gen. 37.39.41. Chapt.

2 Like as the holy Scripture attributeth a certain reward unto our good works, which works, notwithstanding it is not we that work them, but the Lord, which useth us as instruments of his: Even so is the cross an instrument of God, whereby he subdueth our flesh, keepeth us in the school of correction, and forceth us, as it were by violence, from evil to goodness.

3 As all the rain that falleth into the Sea, maketh it not the fresher: So all the afflictions that befall and happen the godly, maketh them not worse but better.

4 Even as a father, knowing that mere wine is not wholesome for his child, mingleth it with water: So the Lord seeing that continual prosperity is not good for us, mingleth it with affliction, crosses and adversity.

5 Like as they which are delighted with hawking, if they love any Hawk more then the other, do as well hood and lease her, least she should fly away from them, as feed her, that she may live: Even so the Lord, as he doth bestow blessings upon his children: so he doth also lay affliction on them, least they being puffed up with pride, should forsake him, and depart from him.

6 As lightning is a glory to the heaven, but hurteth the earth: So Afflictions are good for the divine and Christian Soul, though they be very troublesome to the body.

7 As little children accustomably do desire sweet meats which do annoy and hurt them, and loathe and abhor bitter things that would do them good: Even so some Christians and Gospellers (such is their weakness and foolishness) do pursue and hunt after pleasure, ease, idleness, and prosperity: and shun and fly from affliction, crosses, and persecutions, then the which nothing is more requisite, necessary, and profitable for the confirmation of a Christian life; for it is that sovereign tried Treacle, that quencheth the deadly poison of self-love, worldly pleasure, fleshly felicity, and carnal security.

8 As it is not only the property of the plough to root up all briars, brambles, thystles, thorns and weeds out of the arrable lande, but also to prepare and make the same apt and fit to receive the pure seed into it, when it shall be sown upon it: So likewise it is the nature and quality of affliction, not only to root out of the earthly heart of man, all the weeds of concupiscence, and worldly delights: but also to prepare and make ready his heart and soul to receive the wholesome and most seasonable seed of Christ's doctrine, when it is by his faithful Ministers preached.

9 As the hard hammer beateth off the rotten and cankered rust from the iron: So in like manner the cross and affliction, beateth off the rotten rust of covetousness, whoredom, drunkenness, extortion, uncleanness, licentiousness, gluttony, wrath, strife, sedition, sects, malice, & such other like wa • ward vices from the excellent anker of a Christian faith, preparing the same to all good exercises, which other ways would consume away.

10 As the flaming furnace purifieth the good gold in burning and wasting away all the dross thereof: So affliction burneth and consumeth the drowsy dross of man's deceiveable lusts: for by it the world is crucified unto us, and we unto the world, and by it we are made like unto the image of the son of God.

11 As the proyning knife wherewith the rotten, dry, and withered branches are cut away: Even so by affliction the putrefied branches and vices of the tree and vine of a Christian life are done away, which by continuance would utterly waste, and make the same unfruitful: so that by it our faith is increased, our patience exercised, and our hope augmented.

12 As the savory salt consumeth away the corruption from the unsavory meat: Even so affliction consumeth and purgeth away the corruption of Christians, in seasoning their lives to all profitable uses, for by it we are known both within and without, to our selves, and to other men.

13 Like as the Physician is necessary unto the sick: or the biting corasiue unto the festered sore: or the sharp lancere unto the mollified matter: So likewise without all comparison, the cross and Affliction is more necessary unto a Christian; For by it the sickness of sin is removed, the fleshly lusts cured, and the superfluous humors of earthly pleasures are cut away.

14 Even as no man ever saw the head go into a place one way, and the members another way, unless they were divided and cut off: So in like manner Jesus Christ our head, entered into the Kingdom of his father by ignominy, reproof, shame, slander, railing, persecution, Affliction and the Cross, and therefore we his members (if we continue the members of his body) must enter in by the same way and none other. Matth. 10.24.25. John. 15.18.19.20.

15 As the fiery bush that Moses saw in the mount Oreb, which bush for all that it was on a flaming fire, yet did it not consume: Or as the shining worm, that being cast into the fire, doth not perish nor consume, but contrariwise is thereby purged from filth, & more beautiful then if it were washed with all the water of the world: Even so such Christians as are cast into the fire of Affliction, are not consumed, but purged, tried, and purified.

16 As the child is glad when the father smileth upon him, and speaketh comfortably unto him, although he beats him: So let us be glad and rejoice, when our heavenly Father doth smile upon us, in giving us the assurance of his love, although he doth afflict us.

17 As the Physician, or Surgeon, bindeth him fast that is vexed with a frenzy, stirs him up that is troubled with the disease of Lytharge, putteth them both to vexation, and yet loveth them both: being not only desirous to restore health unto them both, but also applies very diligently his whole Art and study in curing of these things: Even so God, although he be sometime sharp and severe in afflicting and punishing his, yet doth he most lovingly, by such means procure salvation unto his elect.

Adultery.

1 LIke as Tumblers seats are called tricks, but it may be by their sport (as it sometimes falleth out) they may break their necks: Even so Adultrie, fornication, and such filthiness, howsoever it be counted a trick of youth: yet it is such a trick as they may thereby (without repentance) condemn themselves.

2 As a man before God killeth his neighbor, if he hate him, yea if he do not love him, and of love keep himself both from doing hurt, and also be ready and prepared to help his brother at his need: Even so the consent of the heart, with all other means that follow thereof, be as well Adultery before God, as the deed it self. Matth. 5.27.

Adams fall came not to pass without the decree and ordinance of God.

1 AS a man may give a little child some small stripe with a rod, without the parents appointment, which notwithstanding they would peradventure dissemble & wink at: but none dare undertake to cut him of the stone, or to cut off any limb, without the fathers good will and authority: Even so, the greater that the importance of Adams transgression was, in that it tended to destroy and overthrow so excellent a work of God, namely, man, created to his image, the more are we to believe, that it was never done without his counsel or decree. 1. Sam. 2.6. Amo. 3.6. Jer. Lam. 3.38. Psal. 104. & 105. &. 106. & 107. & 136. toto.

2 As a Sparrow falleth not to the ground without the will of God: Even so Adam, being so excellent a creature, created after the Image of God, could not take so horrible a fall without his providence and decree. Act. 4.27.28. & 2.23.

Amendment of life necessary.

1 LIke as if a Merchant seemeth willing to trust another that is ready to be banquerout with all his goods, one warning will be enough to reclaim him, ye shall not need to pray him to beware, or to allege many reasons to withhold him, the only fear of apprehension of the loss of all his goods, will be a reason and exhortation sufficient: Even so then, when Jesus Christ saith; Be ye better advised, that is amend: and note, that by offending God, and so taking the way to hell, we endaunger our selves, yea we do even assure our selves to loose both bodies and souls forever: It is therefore mere madness and ungrateful rage, to continue and not to be wiser and better advised, that we may convert to God, and by amendment preserve our bodies and souls unto life everlasting Math. 3.2. & 4.7.

2 As little children are nursed up, to the end they may grow great and wax strong, and it were a wonder to see a child continue as little and weak as at the birth: Even so, if we who being members of the Church of Christ, and consequently, entered into the path that leadeth to the Kingdom of heaven, and daily do receive the food of God's word and Sacraments, should not increase in faith, working in love, and Amendment of life, it were a great ingratitude and inexcusable obstinacy, which should not escape unpunished, to stand still in the way, and not to go forward.

Adversity ought to make us more faithful and godly.

1 LIke as the more one forceth to take away a staff which I hold in my hand while I am awake; so much more the faster I shut it in, and hold it the harder, that it may not be taken away from me: Even so the more the devil endevoreth to take faith from us by tribulations, so much the more do we meditate on the promises of God to hold it fast: and the more he thrusteth at us, to overcome us, so much the more strongly we lean upon the staff of Faith, to overcome his assaults.

The Adversity of the faithful is not above their patience that God giveth.

AS the Lord our most good and merciful father, doth according to his infinite wisdom and endless compassion, prepare his people unto himself, trying what they will bear for his names sake: Even so he doth not assay them above that he makes them able to bear; but arms them beyond the thoughts of the heart of man, till he send them full deliverance of all evil and troubles.

Adversity bridleth our wicked appetites, and maketh us more obedient.

1 AS wild and fierce horses, are wont to be broken with the hardness of the bridle, and sharpness of the bit: So our untamed lusts, and unbridled appetites, are hampered, and brought within the compass of reason, with the bridle of Adversity, troubles, sorrows, and afflictions.

2 Even as the Grape, that it may yield wine, is brought to the press, that it may be thoroughly pressed: so man is brought to calamity, that being pressed with sorrows, and exercised with afflictions, he may bring forth the sweet and pleasant liquor of obedience and virtue, and so be advanced to true Christianity, which is the greatest and highest dignity in the world. Miseries, penuries, and tribulations, do for the most part, keep under and stay our unruly lusts, and dangerous desires, and are means that we lift up our hearts and minds unto God, and that we be strengthened and confirmed, in true piety and unfeigned godliness: And on the other side, prosperity, worldly wealth, dignity and honors, are oftentimes means to hinder us in holy exercises, and to puff us up with pride and vain-glory, and to draw us to disloyalty and rebellion against God. Numb. 21.6.7. 2. Chro. 33.11.12. Nehem. 9.27.

Adversity bettereth the godly, but maketh the wicked worse.

1 EVen as full wheat in the ear, falleth out with the least motion of the sheaf: that which is somewhat shrunk more hardly leaveth the husk: but that which is altogether shrunk, will rather go to the Chaff, then go out of the ear: So a sincere hearted Christian, with the least Affliction, leaveth his sin, and flieth to God; the weaker Christian more hardly doth the same: but the Apostate will rather burn with unquenchable fire, then forsake his beloved sin, that so he may turn to God.

How a man may be assured of his Adoption.

1 LIke as fire is known to be no painted, but a true fire, by two notes, by heat, and by the flame: now if the case fall out that the fire want a flame, it is still known to be fire by the heat: Eeen so there be two witnesses of our Adoption, God's spirit, and our spirit: now if it fall out that a man want the principal, which is the spirit of Adoption, he must then have recourse to the second witness, and search out in himself the signs and tokens of the sanctification of his own spirit, by which he may certainly assure himself of his Adoption, as he may know fire to be fire by the heat, though it want a flame.

2 Like as when the Angel shown unto the Shepherds the nativity of Jesus Christ, saying, I show unto you great joy, that this day is borne to you a Savior in the City of David, which is Christ the Lord; he addeth, you shall have these signs, ye shall find the child wrapped in swaddling clothes, and laid in a maunger: now if these Shepherds (being come to Bethlehem ) had found the holy Virgin in an honorable Palace, and the Child in a magnificall and royal cradle, they might have had just occasion to doubt of the tidings of the Angel, this estate not agreeing with the sign that he had given: but having found the Child in poor estate in a maunger, as the Angel had foretold, they were confirmed to believe that it was the Messias: Even so, God having revealed unto us by his word, that he hath chosen us to be his children, having sealed it in us by the testimony and effects of the unction of the holy Ghost, and having also given us the marks in this, that he hath made us the members of his Church: he hath foretold, and hath given one sign more of our Adoption, that we shall be reproached and persecuted: if then the world did make much of us, loved and honored us, we might after some sort, doubt of the word of God, and of our election and Adoption: but seeing the accomplishment of that, that was foretold us, we ought to be so much the more confirmed in this assurance, that we are not of the world, but appertain unto our good GOD. John. 15.19.

3 Like as if we ask the way to go to any place, and that one tell us (for a sign of the right way) that it is at the beginning dyrtie, and afterwards full of hills, we will leave the other ways, which seem straight, dry, fair, and easy: and finding in that way which we take, dyrt and hills foretold and given us for a sign, we will be so much the more confirmed, that we are in the right way: So the holy Ghost having foretold, that through many tribulations we must enter into the Kingdom of heaven, and that the way leading to eternal life is narrow and difficult: if we find the way of the Gospel narrow and full of troubles, let us acknowledge that we are in the right way to the Kingdom of heaven, and that we ought therefore to be so much the more confirmed in assurance, that we are the Adopted children of God. Act. 14.22. Math. 7.13.

Of the inward marks of our Adoption.

1 AS to the blind and deaf the opening of their eyes and ears is needful, clearly to see and hear the voice of him that speaketh: Even so we being of our own nature both blind and deaf as touching understanding, the holy Spirit is he, that openeth our eyes and ears to comprehend the revelation of our Adoption, and to feel in our hearts the assurance of it, engendering in us Faith, which is as it were the hand, by which we apprehend this great benefit: whereof also the fruits and effects, as well of the holy Ghost dwelling in us, as of the faith that is in us, are the principal and most assured marks to give us knowledge of our Adoption. Rom. 8.16. 1. John. 3.24. & 4.13. Rom. 5.1. Ephe. 1.13.

Baptism may not be denied to Infants.

1 AS Circumcision was a Sacrament of repentance, as Moses and the Prophets do witness, and also a Sacrament of Faith, as the Apostle teacheth, and yet God did not debar Infantes from receiving of the same: Even so no more ought Baptism to be denied to our little children.

2 Like as in the old Law, when any stranger forsaking his Idolatry, would be joined unto the people of God, and profess the same religion that they professed, both he and all his men children were circumcised, were they never so young: Even so in the Apostles time, and many years after, when any were converted unto the faith of Christ, not only they, but all their whole households, both old and young, were sealed up with Baptism, which is the seal of the people of God. Act. 16.31.33. 1. Cor. 1.16.

Baptized but once.

1 AS the Israelites were but once circumcised: So we are but once Baptized only, because we are but once borne only: As Circumcision was the first beginning of Judaism: So Baptism is the first of beginning Christianity.

Baptizing by a Midwife.

1 AS a private man condemning or killing a murderer (because the lawful Magistrate is not then at hand to do it) hath himself murdered, and executed no justice, because he had no calling thereunto: Even so the Midwife or any other, which without all calling, do take in hand to Baptize children, do make a profane washing, and so administer no Sacrament of the Lord's.

2 Like as if the will of a Prince, do ordain one certain man to confirm writings, that by his only Seal which he hath appointed for that purpose, so that although another use another Seal made without or against his will of the same matter and fashion, and in all things like it, yet it is treason to use it, and the same is none of his Seal: Even so by much more ought the will of God, which is, that only those should minister the Sacrament, which have a public calling thereunto, and have that authority given them from the Lord, should minister the Sacrament, and none other, although another do it in the same order, and with the same instruments.

3 As by the Seal which the Prince hath set apart to seal his Graunts and Letters Patents with, when it is stolen and set too by him that hath no authority, there groweth no assurance unto the party that hath it: So if it were possible to be the Seal of God, which a woman should set too in Baptizing Infants, yet for that she hath stolen it, and put it too, not only without, but contrary to the commandment of God: we see not how any can take any assurance of the doing hereof. For as well, and as lawfully may she preach publicly in the Church, and minister the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper openly, or otherwise; as to Baptise in time of necessity, &c.

4 As a Seal added to a Deede or Evidence, by such as hath no authority to put to the same, hath no force to ratify or confirm the Couenants and Graunts in the Writing; which kind of Seal hath been always deemed no better then a counterfeit and plain forgery: Even so the outward seal of Baptism added by women, hath no force by God's institution to confirm any in the promises of salvation, because women have no warrant in the word to Baptise: for every washing of the child in the name of the Trinity is not a Sacrament of Baptism, neither can there be rendered any cause why the Lord's Supper ministered by them, should not be counted as good a Sacrament as their Baptism.

Baptism.

1 EVen as they which were in the Ark of Noah, were preserved from the flood: So whosoever doth earnestly stick to the covenant of their outward Baptism, are delivered from the everlasting flood, (that is to say) from the pains and torments of hell by Jesus Christ.

2 As the flood did preserve so many as were within the Ark, but sunk the rest: So likewise is Baptism available, to so many as are Baptized into the Church of Christ by faith; but helpeth the rest no more then it did Simō the sorcerer. Act. 8.9.10. &c. Mar. 16.16. 1. Pet. 3.10.21.

3 As in the Flood both sin and sinners did perish: So also in the flood of Baptism, sin sinketh, but the sinner is safe. Tit. 3.5. John. 3.5.

4 As the Purse of a true man in the hand of a thief, doth not make or prove him to be a true man: Even so Baptism though it be in the assemblies of the Churches of Rome, yet it noth not prove them to be the Churches of God, neither doth it appertain unto them, but unto another hidden Church of God, which he hath in all ages gathered forth of the midst of them.

5 As the graff receiveth substance and nourishment of the root into which it is graffed: So they that receive Baptism with such faith as they ought, do truly feel the effectualness of the death of Christ, in the mortifying of their flesh, and therewithal also they feel the effect of his resurrection, in the quickening of the spirit. Rom. 6.3. Col. 2.12.

Reading of Authors.

1 AS Vlisses stopping his ears with wax, escaped the danger of the Sirenes: So ought we to avoid such things as are found filthy in Books, and Authors, though they seem pleasant, if we will avoid the danger ensuing such things.

2 As the like pleasure is not to him that goeth into a goodly garden garnished with diverse kinds of herbs and flowers, and that there doth no more but behold them, of whom it may be said, that he went in for nothing but that he would come out, and to him, which besides the corporal eye pleasure knoweth of everyone the name and property: So verily much difference is there in reading of Authors, and in sundry sorts of men that do it, and much more pleasure and profit hath he which useth art and judgment, then the other, which with great study indeed turneth them over, but for lack of the knowledge of precepts, wanteth also the fruit and delectation, that he more amply might obtain.

Christ's Body is not enclosed or contained in the bread, under the bread, or with the bread: neither the blood in the wine, under the wine, or with the wine.

1 AS the blood of our Savior Christ doth cleanse us from all our sins, and yet we need not to have it really present with us, for to be washed or bathed in it: So Christ our Savior, according to his promise, doth daily, or whensoever we do come worthily to his holy Supper, feed both our bodies and souls, with the wholesome and heavenly food of his precious Body and blood, and this doth he by his eternal and almighty Spirit, so that he needeth not therefore to come down at the beck of every juggling popish Priest, and to be really present in their wafer Cake, after that they have with gaping and blowing, spoken four or five words upon it.

Receiuing of the Sacrament.

1 LIke as Christ doth recover and impute that to be done unto him, which is done to his Ministers, or poor needy members: So also doth he recover and impute that to be done unto his Body and blood, that is done unto the Sacrament of the same. 1. Cor. 11.27.

2 Like as he that sinneth against a Minister or a poor man, sinneth against Christ himself, although in the mean while he hath not hurt Christ's person in any point: Even so is he also guilty of the body and blood of Christ, whosoever receiveth the Sacrament of the Body and blood of Christ unworthily, although in the mean season, he hath not received the very Body and blood of the Lord.

3 Like as if a Rebell should tread under his feet the Seal, Letters, or Coyne of the Prince; although he touch not the Prince himself, nor tread him under his feet: yet is he said to have trodden the Prince under his feet, and is accused not for hurting the Seal, or defiling the Letters, or defacing his Coyne, but he is charged of treason, and accused for treading the Prince under his feet: Or if one man should send a gift or token unto another man, (as a piece of bowed silver, a Nutmeg, or a Rasing of Ginger) if the party to whom it were sent would not take it, but refuse it despitefully, or contemn it, the man that sent it, might well think he had contemned and disdained him, and not his gift or present: but what might he think if he should cast it into the dyrt, and trample it under his feet? Therefore, if he did as he ought to do, he should consider (when he received the token) the mind and good will of his friend, that sent or gave it, and according thereunto, to esteem and receive it: So likewise if we do as we ought to do, in being partakers of these holy Mysteries, we should rather consider the mind and good will of our lover Christ, then the Bread and Wine which we see: yea if we do not altogether consider Christ's mind and purpose in this behalf, we deal dishonestly, and strump • like with him. For it is the property of Strumpets, to consider the things given and sent them, rather then the good will and mind of the giver and sender, whereof the true lovers do not consider in any point, the value of the things given or sent, but the mind and good will of the party: So we, (if we be true Lovers of Christ) must not consider barely the outward things, as the Bread and Wine which we see, and our senses perceive, but rather altogether we must view and consider the mind of Christ, and thereafter, and according to it, to esteem and account of the same.

4 Like as if a willful and rebellious subject should no more esteem or regard his Princes seal, then other common wax, or have it in no greater reverence then the seal of some private man, it might rightly be said, that he maketh no difference of his Princes person: that is to say, that he doth no more esteem him, then he doth other men: yet it needeth not that the Kings person be there really present: So when we come to the Lord's table, if we take unreverantly the mystical Bread and Wine, as other common meats appointed for the belly, then make we no difference of the Lord's Body: we do not esteem the worthiness, price, and virtue of it, which in the holy Mysteries, is so freely and so liberally offered unto us. And therefore if we receive this Sacrament unreverantly, not considering who is the Author of it, nor who it is that offereth himself so mercifully and lovingly unto us: it is no marvel therefore, that the holy Apostle saith, that we are guilty of the Body and blood of the Lord; that is to say, that we are before the seat of Almighty God, because of our unthankfulness, and irreverent handling of the holy Mysteries, counted as guilty, as if we had slain the Body of the only begotten son of GOD, and shed his most precious blood upon the Cross. Or it is no marvel that instead of grace, instead of forgiuegesse of our sins and of life everlasting, we do eat and drink our own damnation. And yet it followeth not that the Body and blood of Christ be really present there in the Sacrament.

Christ's natural and immortal Body, can be but in one place at once, and not in many places.

1 LIke as the Soul of man united to his Body, cannot be a Body because it is a spirit: Even so the like is of the Body and of the Soul of Jesus Christ, and of his divine and human nature, of the which everyone of them holdeth so continually his properties, that the one cannot be that the other is. For albeit that they be united together by personal union, yet for all they remain always distinct in their unity, according to their properties, and not confused, in such sort, that the one cannot be the other: wherefore we may not say at all, that the Divinity is the humanity, or that the humanity, is the Divinity, nor that the one is converted into the other. For if there were such a conversion, they should no more be that which they are, but should be changed into other natures, which thing cannot be. For God can never be but God. Wherefore he cannot be converted into man, but he may unite man to himself, as he hath done in the person of his Son Jesus Christ. Likewise man cannot be converted into God, for so much as he is a creature, and that God which is the Creator of all, cannot be created, but is without beginning, as he is without end and infinite: the which thing cannot agree with any creature. From whence it followeth, that the God's which are created are no God's at all, but are only creatures, or else vain illusions or imaginations. And as the substance of GOD, cannot be converted into that of man, nor that of man, into that of God: for otherwise, God should not be God, nor man should not be man at all: Even so neither the one nor the other may be without his convenient and natural properties belonging to the divine nature, it is no more divine nature, but human. In like sort, if the Sacramental signs of the Body and blood of Jesus Christ, have the natural properties which do belong to the Bread and to the Wine, as they have indeed; if they have their qualities and accidents, and these same effects, they are not then really and substancially the Body and blood of him, but Bread and Wine remaining always in their substance with their accidents.

2 As the body of the Sun, and light of it, are so jointly joined together, that the one cannot be separated from the other, yet it followeth not, that wheresoever the light of the Sun is, there the body of the Sun must be also. For as the Sun being still in the Element according to the order that God hath appointed among us his creatures, doth wtth his light refresh, comfort, and quicken all things here upon earth. So our Savior Christ Jesus who is the true Son of righteousness, being still (until the time that God hath appointed) on the right hand of his Father touching his manhood, that is to say, above in heaven in the place of beatitude, felicity and joy, reigning there with the Father in equal glory and majesty, doth continually assist, aide and comfort his Church, by his holy spirit, being always present with his elect and chosen, by his divine Majesty, providence, and invisible grace, whom he doth not cease through his almighty power, the spirit being the worker of it, to feed still with the wholesome food of his most precious flesh and blood. Now as it were most noisome and hurtful unto all the whole earth, if we had here below the Body of the Sun: so is it not expedient, that the Church and Congregation of the faithful, should have Christ still present here, touching his humanity and manhood. For so he saith. John. 16.7.

3 As no man can deny but that the eye and the sight of it, be so jointly and inseparably joined together, that as long as the eye is whole and sound, the one cannot be separated from the other: yet the eye is not in all places that the sight doth reach unto. As we know that severity and mercy are in God so jointly joined together, that the one cannot be separated from the other, and yet they that feel his severity, do not feel his mercy: that is to say, those whom he doth according to his righteous judgment punish everlastingly in hell fire, them doth he utterly banish and put away from his bounteous goodness and mercy. Even so, although the Divinity and humanity of Christ be so linked and joined together, that wheresoever the one is, it doth not therefore follow that the other is there also. For the godhead of Christ can be everywhere, and in more places then in one at once: but his manhood cannot be everywhere, nor in moe places then one at once.

Bread and Wine in the Lord's Supper do no more change their substance nor qualities, then the water in Baptism.

1 AS in the Sacrament of Baptism the substance of water remaineth still: So likewise in the Lord's Supper, remaineth the substance of Bread and Wine.

2 As in Baptism is given unto us the holy Ghost, and pardon of our sins, which yet lie not lurking or enclosed in the water: so in the Lord's Supper is given unto us the Communion of Christ's body and blood, that is, grace, forgiveness of sins, innocence, life, immortality, without any transubstantiation, or including of the same in the Bread. Mar. 16.19. Luk. 24.6.51. Act. 1.9.10. John. 12.8.26.

3 As by Baptism the old man is put off, and the new man put on, yea Christ is put on, but without transubstantiation or changing of the water: Even so it is in the Lord's Supper: we by faith spiritually in our souls do feed on Christ's Body broken, do eat his flesh and drink his blood; do dwell in him, and he in us; but without transubstantiation.

Books.

1 AS Thieves be loath to assault an house where they know to be good Armor, and Artillery: so wheresoever the Books of the holy Scriptures be well occupied and exercised, there neither the devil nor any of his angels dare come near.

2 Like as Smiths, Masons, Carpenters, and other handy craftsmen, what need soever they be in, or what shift soever they make, will not sell or lay to pledge the tools of their occupation, for then they could not work or follow their trade, and so get their living: So likewise every good Christian ought to be like minded and affectioned towards the Books of the Prophets, Apostles, and other holy writers, inspired by the holy Ghost, the instruments of their salvation, and therefore not to sell or pawn them away.

3 As unto those precious stones, the greatest price is due, which not only with their colors do delight the eyes, but also are of effect for medicines: So unto those Books is the chiefest praise due, which in them do not only contain pleasant speech and eloquent, but also that do deliver the mind from all vice and corruption.

4 Like as one dish of meat well chewed and digested, will comfort nature more then diverse delicates that lie raw and undigested in the stomach: Even so one good Book often and thoroughly read, will do thy soul more good, then the superficial sight and taste of a thousand.

5 Like as no wise man will receive a writing for the least plotte of ground without the counsel of some learned Lawyer: nor a medicine for his body without the advise of some learned Physician: Even so much more ought a Christian not to venture upon a Book, wherein may be some damnable error, which may convey from him his heavenly inheritance, or some deadly poison which may kill his soul, without the direction of some godly Divine.

6 As unto men of diverse complexions and affections, God hath given choice of meats, and variety of apparel: So likewise many Books to one ende are published and set forth by sundry men, in diverse fashions, and with a diverse gift, order and facility: that he whom one Book savoreth not, might yet like the taste of another.

Our second Birth.

LIke as we see the natural Body from the first Birth to receive diverse members, and every member diverse offices & uses; as it is the use of the eye to see good or evil; and of the hand to take unto it that which is good, and to remove from the Body that which is evil: Even so in the second Birth we receive new members, whereof everyone hath his diverse use and function, as knowledge of the will of God, hope, love, faith, which is as it were, the hand reaching unto us all the merciful promises of GOD in Christ, whereby we are so surely joined in affection to the Lord, that by nothing we can be separated.

Cares of the world hurtful.

AS a Clock can never stand still from running, so long as the peases and plummets do hang thereat: Even so a worldly man having infinite Cares, cogitations, and anxieties hanging upon his mind, as weights upon the Clock, can never have rest or quiet day or night, but is enforced to beat his brains when other men sleep, for the compassing of those trifles wherewith he is encumbered.

Carelesse keepers of God's commandments.

AS the Scribes and Pharisees that came from Jerusalem, picked a quarrel against our Savior Christ, because his Disciples did eat with unwashed hands, whereby they transgressed (as they said) the tradition of the Elders: Our Savior Christ in defense of his Disciples, chargeth the Scribes and Pharisees, which were so zealous to maintain their own ceremonies, that they were careless to break the commandments of God: Even so it cometh to pass always, that they which are most earnest in upholding and defending traditions and ceremonies invented by man, are most forgetful in keeping the commandments of God: But this is the just judgment of GOD against those that invent a new worship of their own brain: That first they loose their labor: and secondly, that they are deprived of all-right understanding, because they have presumed to be wiser then God. Whom the word of God condemneth. Esa. 29.13. 14. & 6.9. Math. 13.14. Act. 28.26. Rom. 11.8. John. 12.40.

Carnal minded men.

AS with a leaude and naughty Companion, if we, keep company we shall learn no good, but rather be ready to be infected with his sin and vice: Even so if we suffer our selves to be acquainted with the flesh, and use it as a companion in all our dealings, and yield unto it, we shall then be sure to learn no good of it, for the flesh provoketh us to whoredom, to drunkenness, to wantonness, &c. Now if we shall acquaint our selves with the flesh, we shall learn those things which tend to our destruction. Gal. 6.8. Rom. 8.12, 13, 14, 15, 16. Tit. 2.12.

The Cause of God's plagues are diligently to be searched out.

LIke as the Physician seeing in a glass by the water, the disease within the body, by skill and learning searches out the cause of the disease, and ministers good things for the same: Even so we, in looking into the glass of God's word, shall soon perceive the diseases and sins which are in us, and the cause thereof, and so wholesomely minister some profitable and comfortable remedies for the same.

Evil Company hurtful.

1 AS whole and sound eyes with beholding and looking on sore eyes, be annoyed and hurt: so good and honest folks be oftentimes stained and hurt with the Company of wicked men.

2 Like as a natural Father will not willingly suffer his child to come into a place where he may be in danger to take hurt of his body, either by infection of the plague, or otherwise: Even so much more a Christian Father is bound in conscience to keep his child and the rest of his family from lewd and wicked Company, where even their souls should be hurt and poisoned.

3 As it is a folly or madness to shut our doors against those who bring the plague, which infecteth only our bodies: So likewise it is a much greater folly and madness, to set open our doors to swearers, blasphemers, ribaldous talkers, and ungodly livers, who infect both soul and body.

4 As sweet waters are corrupted and spoiled, when they run into waters which are sault, bitter, or unwholesome: Even so that man which joineth himself in friendship, and doth couple himself in familiarity with wicked and ungodly men, becometh wicked and ungodly himself, and is stained and blemished with their vices, although heretofore he had been inclined to virtue and godliness. 1. Cor. 5.6.

5 Even as the River Hypanis, which is very famous, and much spoken of, because of the clearness & sweetness of the water of the same, after that it receiveth into it, the bitter and troubled waters of the Fountain Erampes, is poisoned and made unprofitable. So likewise many men of great and excellent wits, which did flowe with the pure and pleasant waters of virtues, when they have fallen into the society and familiarity of ungracious, leaude, and godless men, have been poisoned with the lewdness of their lives, and the looseness of their conditions.

6 As rotten Apples do corrupt those sound ones that do touch them, and lie close to them: Even so the evil manners and bad conditions of the ungodly, do infect those that keep them company. Psal. 1.1. & 26.4, 5. Mar. 14.67. 1. Cor. 15.33.

7 As a Looking Glass, though it be most clear and clean, with the foul breath of those that blow upon it, is obscured and dimmed: Even so a man that is honest, virtuous and godly, with continual custom, acquaintance and familiarity, of dishonest, ungodly, & graceless men, is oftentimes corrupted, infected, and blemished. Ecclesi. 13.1. Deu. 7.1, 2.

8 Like as if it do happen, that a Planet otherwise very beneuolent & wholesome, shall be joined to other stars or Planets, which are maleuolent, & of bad influence, it also will send forth influence that is evil and unwholesome: Even so a man that is virtuously given, & well bent to godliness, if he take & join unto him, profane, wicked & ungodly men, into much acquaintance & familiarity, he also at length, will become profane, and ungodly, as they be.

9 As one scabbed sheep infecteth many other: Or as a little poison spoileth a great deal of meat and drink: Or as some few infected with the plague, may infect a whole house, town or country: Even so the familiarity and company of the wicked, infecteth and hurteth the godly, because there can be no true concord betwixt the sons of wisdom, and the sons of folly. 2. Cor. 6.14. Pro. 29.27.

10 As men are wont in their own bodies, if so be any part thereof be festered with an incurable disease, they cut off the same, not because they neglect or hate their bodies, but that they may preserve their other parts from infection: So also ought we to deal, we must cut and shake off wicked and obstinate sinners from our society and company, that we be not infected by them.

11 As some little creatures do bite us, but we scarcely feel it, but afterwards we shall well perceive that they have bitten us: So in like manner, though we perceive not the hurt that cometh by ill company at the first, yet we shall find it afterwards.

12 As in a general distemperature and corruption of the air, it is hard even for him that hath an healthful and strong constitution of body, to avoid sickness: So likewise it is in evil Company, in corrupt ages, and places, very hard to live unspotted of the world. Act. 2.40. Math. 24.12.

13 As one that walketh in the sun, shall be sunburnt, though the end of his walking in it be not to be sunburnt: So likewise will it be with those that keep Company with the wicked. 2. Cor. 6.14, 15, 16, 17. Ephe. 5.11.

Catechising.

1 LIke as a Child that learneth the A, B, C, when he hath once learned his Letters, is yet ready to learn the same again: Even so many Parishioners are so forgetful, that when they are past one principle and point of Religion, that they must yet be brought back again to the same. Hebr. 5.12, 13, 14.

2 As weak and young Infants must have milk given them, and not strong meat: Even so many rude people must have the rudiments and first beginnings of Religion rather taught them, then higher points which their capacity cannot yet digest. 1. Cor. 3.2.

3 As there is little hope that a child that cannot abide to eat milk and other liquid and nourishing meat, will live long, for he cannot then brook stronger meat: Even so those people must needs perish, that will not, nor cannot abide to learn the principles and least points of Christianity, much less can they brook higher points.

4 As that Schoolmaster which still commandeth his scholars, saying learn this, learn this, and yet never calleth them to account how the same is learned; may assure himself, that his scholars will have but a slender regard to be perfect in that which he commandeth, because they think they shall never be examined how they have profited: Even so falleth it out with the Minister towards his Parishioners, that although he be very diligent to Preach unto them the principles of Christian Religion, yet if he be not careful to Catechize and examine them particularly therein, there will come and appear little profit or none at all by his labors; as experience proveth the same.

Original Corruption.

1 AS children take of their Parents their original and natural qualities and conditions: Even so they receive with the same, Original Corruption of nature, which cometh by Original sin.

2 Like as corn, although it be never so clean winnowed and purged from chaff, yet when it is sown, the same seed will be full of chaff again, until it be winnowed and made clean: Even so be children borne full of chaff and Corruption of original sin, until that by Baptism in the blood of Christ, through the wonderful operation of the holy Ghost, and be drawn from the love of themselves, and of worldly things, unto the pure love of God, as their Parents were.

A brief Comparison of the sins that reigned in the people in the time of the Prophet Zephania, with the like sins in the people of our time.

1 AS in the time of the Prophet, there were many and foul sins and vices then reigning and overflowing amongst the people: Even so likewise are there now many grievous sins and offenses amongst us.

2 As the people then presumed upon their blind and dead faith, and counterfeit repentance, and hypocritical, and feigned prayers: So also the common people now presume upon their idle faith, thinking themselves as good Christians as the best, if so be that they can say by heart the Articles of their Belief, the Lord's Prayer, and the ten Commandments: and think that they repent very well, if they come to the Church on the Sabbath days and other holy days, and say the Confession after their Minister, although they be never touched with any remorse or feeling of any one sin; yet they suppose they have repented sufficiently: and so likewise of Prayer.

3 Like as in the Prophets time, when the people were thus overwhelmed with their blind faith, counterfeit repentance, and hypocritical Prayers, then the Lord in mercy sent his Prophets vehemently and sharply to reprove them, and to denounce the judgment of God against them: Even so the Lord of his unspeakable goodness, hath raised up many famous and zealous Preachers in our days, to exclaim and cry out against the manifold wickedness now reigning amongst us, and to threaten us with the vengeance of God for the same.

4 As there were always some good Prophets that would reprove sin and iniquity in all estates, without respect of persons: so there was also some false and fawning Prophets and Preachers, that would soothe up the people with sweet and flattering words, and daub them up with untempered mortar, telling them that there was peace, and all was well, and that they were in a very good case, when indeed destruction was even at hand: Even so in like manner, as we have many faithful Preachers that will boldly reprove sin in all estates: so also we have many such clawbackes and flattering Ministers, who do soothe up their Parishioners, making them believe that they are as good Christians as the best, and that they may be partakers of the Lord's Supper, if so be that they can say the Lord's prayer, the Articles of their Belief, and the ten Commandments; yea and though they understand not what the Sacraments mean; neither wherefore, nor yet to what end they were ordained, nor what profit they should have by worthily receiving the same; and if so be that they come to the Church at times appointed, and hear the Service read, although they return home again as wise as they came, and have profited no more in knowledge, then the seats that they sat on: yet these are good people (say they) and obedient and dutiful subjects.

5 Even as in the Prophets time, the people then excused themselves for not coming to hear their Sermons, because there were some Priests and false Prophets that did bend and set themselves with all their force to contrary and gainsay that doctrine which the true Prophets did deliver unto the people, whereupon the people said, that they could not agree amongst themselves, & therefore they would not hear them: So likewise a number of people do now say after the like sort, go about to excuse themselves, saying, we will not hear them, because they cannot agree among themselves: for one (say they) Preacheth of this thing today, & another against it the next day: some allow of one thing today; othersome disallow of the same: so that (say they) we cannot tell which to follow, or whom to believe: but such as would be accounted good Christians, ought to be grown to such knowledge and judgment in the word of God, that they be able to discern and judge who preacheth sound Doctrine, and who teacheth corrupt; and so to try the spirits, &c. 1. John. 4.1.

Christ Communicated to us by a spiritual manner.

1 AS we verily take and eat the bread and wine by a natural manner, the which incontinent after by digestion, turneth into our substance and nourishment of our corporal life: So likewise as verily (although by a spiritual and celestial manner, and not with mouth and teeth) is Jesus Christ himself, which is now in heaven, on the right hand of his Father, communicated unto us, 1. Cor. 10.16. that we may be flesh of his flesh: (Eph. 5.30) that is to say, being knit and incorporated with him by faith. John. 17.21, 22, 23. our souls and our bodies do attain to eternal life, Col. 2.12: yea even whilst we be in this world, his spirit doth sanctify and govern our bodies and souls, to dedicate and sacrifice all our life to his service, and to the love of our neighbors, for the love of him.

2 As no man will deny a man's wife to be with her husband one body and flesh, although he be at London and she at York: So likewise it cannot truly be denied, that the coupling of Christ's body and blood to the Sacrament, is a spiritual thing, and therefore there needs not any such carnal presence as the Papists do imagine.

Education of Children.

1 LIke as fruitful fields for lack of tillage wax barren: Or as trees being neglected either bring forth no fruit, or else the same unsavory, without the diligence of grafting and pruning: Or as dogs be unmeet to hunt the horse, and Oxen unapt to the plough, except man's diligence be put thereto: Even so Children would become wild and unprofitable, except by diligence and in due time, they should be fashioned and brought in order by good bringing up.

2 Like as planting and carefulness hath great power in all growing things: Even so hath Education greater virtue and strength; yea and better fruit in the diligent bringing up of Children.

3 Like as Noblemen and Gentlemen are desirous to have a good and skillful horsekeeper, that can keep their horses well, and they spare not to give great stipends to such: Even so how much more ought Christian Parents be desirous to have and maintain a good Schoolmaster that might godlily bring up their children in virtue and wisdom.

4 Like as if a horse be not well broken, or have any evil quality, the owner will be careful to see it remedied, and that he may be made gentle: So likewise godly Parents, seeing their natural child evil brought up, ought to be much more careful that he may be brought to some good order.

5 As there be some men, who can easily see and spy a spauine, a sprent, a ringbone, or such other disease in a horse: Even so much more ought a good Father be as ready to look that there be no faults in his Children, or in the teacher unto whom he committeth the charge to bring them up in learning and good manners.

6 As a vessel will long retain and keep the savor of that wherewith it is first seasoned: Even so if Children be taught good things whilst they be young and tender, they will abide and stick the longer with them. Pro. 22.6. Deut. 4.9.14. & 32.46.

7 Even as a Plant will sooner take nourishment, and thrive better in the soil where it first grew and sproong up, then in any other ground, because it liketh his own soil best: So likewise children will sooner take instruction and good nurture from their Parents, whom they best like, and from whom they had their first being, then from any other.

8 Like as our first Parent Adam, and so all other after him, have been a mean of falling to all their posterity, in begetting Children in their own image, which according to the law of creation should have been borne in God's image: So now in lieu of this, all Parents should lend their hands to their children to lift them up again by good Education, and never cease until they see in some measure the beauty of the first image, and the virtue of the second Adam. Pro. 22.6. Deut. 4.9. & 11.18, 19.

9 As life and death is in the power of the tongue: So also we may well say, life and death is in the Education of our children: for if they be well brought up, it shall be life unto them; but if it be otherwise, they are trained up to everlasting death. Pro. 18.21.

10 Even as a weed if it grow in a rank soil will wax out of measure noisome: So children coming of honorable Parents, brought up in ease, and pampered with the delights of gentrie, they wax immeasurably vicious, whom neither Laws, nor Magistrates, nor any other good mean, can hardly keep under.

11 As the brute Ox and Ass would never endure their hard labor, except they were held in by their yoke, but would stray every way: So unbridled man, if he be not in his youth held in by the yoke of painful labor, and virtuous education, he will never abide it when he is old, but will run out into every path of destruction. Lament. of Jer. 3.26.

12 As Alexander the Great attained to have such a puissant Army, whereby he conquered the world, by having children borne and brought up in his Campe, whereby they became so well acquainted and exercised with weapons from their swaddling clothes, that they looked for no other wealth or Country but to fight: Even so if thou wouldest have thy children either to do great matters, or to live honestly by their own virtuous endeavours, & not to gape unjustly for other men's goods, but to be content with the blessing of God upon their labors, thou must acquaint them with pains taking in their youth, and so to bring them up in the nurture and information of the Lord.

13 As those which have experience in keeping and repairing of the Sea banks, can easily tell us, that if the raging waves should be suffered to break over but one tide, they should hardly in many days recover it again: Even so if Parents suffer their Children's affections (through want of good Education) to have the full swing and course, yea but a small season, they shall hardly or never again win this breach. Pro. 11.20. & 29.15.

14 Even as the fattest soil bringeth forth the ranckest weeds: So pampered Children brought up without due government and discipline, thrust forth the greatest and most ouergrowen vices.

15 As young Plants being straightened while they be tender, and trimmed with pruning and other parts of husbandry, will grow very goodly to behold in their greatness, which being neglected, are many times very crooked, and unfit for diverse uses: So likewise do young men and women for the most part prove, as they are nurtured in their youth.

Christ's second coming to judgment.

1 SO quickly as the lightning in the East is seen unto the West: Even so suddenly shall Christ appear unto the whole world, at his second coming.

2 As a Thief (so near as he can) cometh closely to rob an house, then when men think least of him: So likewise upon a like sudden, when men least think of it, shall Christ come again to judgment. 1. Thess. 5.4. 2. Pet. 3.10.

3 Like as when the Sun is up, which is the most excellent light, although the Moon and the Stars do remain still in the element, yet are they not seen, but are even as though they were all fallen down from heaven: Even so the coming of Christ to judgment, shall be so glorious and so bright, that in comparison of it, the light of the Sun then, the Moon, and the Stars, shall be as though they were not at all. Math. 24.29. Esa. 13.10. Ezech. 32.7. Joel. 2.31. & 3.15.16.

4 Like as men wax cunning to foresee what weather will shortly happen by the standing of the wind, by the gathering of the clouds, and by other tokens: which as it did condemn the carelessness of them which lived in the time of Christ, because they were not careful and diligent to mark the tokens whereby they should have known the coming of Christ: So also it will condemn us, if we mark not, neither observe the tokens of the second coming of Christ.

5 As a guilty man, whose conscience doth accuse him, would never see the Judge: and a traitor would never willingly be espied of his Prince, nor a disloyal person of one that knoweth him: and on the other side, a true and faithful subject, that hath done dutiful service, desireth the presence of the Prince in hope to be well rewarded: So the wicked and ungodly ones of the world, are grieved to hear of Christ's coming to judge the quick and the dead: but they that have lived with good consciences, do groan for his coming.

Christ the only object of faith which justifieth.

LIke as when the children of Israel were bidden of Moses, to look up to the brazen Serpent, neither could the Serpent have helped them, except they had looked up, nor yet their looking upward have profited them, unless they had directed their eyes upon the said Serpent, as the only object set up to the same purpose, for them to behold: So our faith in like case directed to the body of Jesus Christ our Savior, is only the means whereby Christ's merits are applied unto us, and we now justified before God. Rom. 10.9.

Christ our Mediator.

1 LIke as Christ Jesus is our looking glass, in which we behold the invisible and glorious God, to be our loving and merciful father, more ready to hear, then we to pray: So the same our Savior Christ is also our feet, by which we go to the father, our mouth by which we speak to the Father, and our hand by which we offer our prayers, and all our service, yea our souls and bodies, as a lively, reasonable, and acceptable sacrifice to his Majesty.

2 As no man is able to behold the bright Sun unless it be covered with a cloud: Even so no man can abide the Majesty of God, but through the Lord Jesus Christ.

Communion with Christ.

1 AS the head giveth sense and motiō to the members, and the members feel themselves to have sense, and to move by the means of the head: Even so doth Christ Jesus receive and quicken every true member, and by his heavenly power maketh him to do the good which he doth.

2 Like as from the stock, sap is derived to the graft, that it may live and grow, and bring forth fruit in his kind: So likewise do all the faithful that are grafted into Christ the true vine. Rom. 6.4, 5. John. 15.1, 2. Ephe. 13.16.

3 And as the graft looseth his wild nature, and is changed into the nature of the stock, and bringeth forth good fruit: Even so in like manner it is with them that are in Christ, who by little and little are wholly renewed from evil to good. Act. 15.9.

Conscience touched.

1 LIke as they which have diseased bodies, are contented with no one Physician, but do commit themselves to every man that will promise them help: So also it fareth oftentimes with them that have their consciences ou •• pressed with the burden of their sins, that they can be content to yield themselves to every heretic that will promise them liberty.

2 As after great storms the air is clear: so after the floods of repentant tears, the Conscience is at quiet.

3 As a sick man that is pained diversely, complaineth of diverse places: even so a man troubled in Conscience, useth many phrases according to the diversity of afflictions. Psal. 51.8, 9, 10, 11, 12.

Consideration and earnest meditation of our estate, needful.

1 LIke as a man that hath a iournie to make but from England to Constantinople, although he had made the same once or twice before, yet would he not pass it over without great and often Consideration; especially whether he were right and in the way or no; what pace he held, how near he were to his ways end, and the like: Even so every Christian hath far more need of due Consideration; who must pass frō earth to heaven, being subject to by paths, and manifold dangers, as every pleasure of this world, every lust, every dissolute thought, every alluring sight, & tempting sound, every devil vpō the earth, or instrument of his, which are infinite, being a thief, and lying in wait to spoil him upon this way towards heaven.

2 As thieves seem mad unto wise men, that seeing so many hanged daily for theft before their eyes, will yet notwithstanding steal again, and all for want of due consideration: Even so the very same cause maketh the wisest men of the world to seem very fools, and worse then franticks unto God and good men, that knowing the vanities of the world, and the danger of sinful life, do follow so much the one, and fear so little the other. Math. 7. Luk. 12. Rom. 2. 1. Cor. 1.2, 3. Gal. 3.

3 Like as if a Law were made by the authority of man, that whosoever should adventure to drink wine, should without delay hold his hand but half an hour in the fire, or in boiling lead for a punishment, many no doubt would forbear wine, albeit naturally they loved the same: and yet a Law being made by the eternal Majesty of God, that whosoever committeth sin, shall boil in the fire of hell without ease or end, many for lack of consideration commit sin upon sin, with as little fear as they do eat or drink.

4 As he may be thought to be but a foolish Merchant, that for quietness sake would never look to his own accounts book, whether he were behind hand or before: Or as a shipmaister were greatly to be laughed at, that for avoiding of care, would sit down and make good cheare and let the ship go whither she would: Even so much more in the business of our soul, it is madness and folly to fly consideration for eschewing of trouble, seeing in the end, this negligence must needs turn upon us more trouble, and irremediable calamity.

The Condition of man's creation.

AS a Merchant Factor when he is arrived in a strange Country, or as a Captain sent by his Prince to some great exployt, is accustomed when he cometh to the place appointed: then advisedly considereth wherefore he was sent, to what end, what to attempt, what to prosecute, what to perform, what shall be expected and rerequired at his hands, upon his return, by him that sent him thither: these cogitations (no doubt) shall stir him up to attend to that which he came for, and not to employ himself in impertinent affairs. So likewise every Christian desirous of salvation, ought to ask of himself, why and to what end he was created of God, and sent into this world, what to do, wherein to bestow his days, thus doing, he shall find that it was for no other cause, but only to serve God in a right manner in this life. Deut. 6.13. Luk. 1.74.75.

Whosoever breaketh one Commandment, is guilty of the breach of all.

LIke as if a Father should say unto his son: do such and such things, and I will take thee for an obedient child, and give thee all my possessions: now the son breaketh somewhat of that which his father charged him withal, and is therefore accounted disobedient, and deserveth to loose whatsoever was promised: Or as if one man bestow upon another, house or land, or some such like thing, and in consideration thereof, bindeth him to fulfill many conditions, whereof if he break but the least, the gift is void, and it is all one as if he had never given anything: Even so likewise we may not marvel, when we hear that by the breaking of one point of one Commandment, we fail of perfect righteousness, and are made the heirs of everlasting damnation, if God should measure out unto us the due reward of his damnation. Deut. 27.26. & 28.58, 59. I am. 2.10.

2. Even as if a Rule be broken in some part, or the link of a round chain, yet we may rightly and truly say, that they are not wholly and altogether broken: So likewise, if but one Commandment be broken, yet all are broken in the sight of God, for the justice of God is indivisible.

The Covenant of God.

1 AS it is the chief and principal part in the law of Wedlocke, and before all required of the wife, that she kept this faith to her husband, that she admit no other man in his sight, unless she will be refused as an adulteress: So likewise this is the chief point in the Covenant of GOD, that we stick unto him only, and alone, or else to be put out from the Covenant.

Creature.

1 EVen as a brittle glass being filled with some extreme strong liquor, cannot but burst in sunder, not because of any antipathy which is betwixt them, but because the glass is not of sufficient strength to contain the liquor: So it is with the Creature when God doth appear in perfect glory; in regard whereof, the Angels themselves are said to cover their faces, least they should behold it: how much more then hath man, who is but dust and ashes, and whose life is in his nosethrils, just cause of fear. Esa. 6.2. Psal. 29.3, &c.

2 As the Aduouterous Woman hath no more to do with her husband, nor with anything of his, for because of the transgression of this principal law and Covenant, and the breach of the faith of Wedlocke: Even so they have no more to do in the Covenant of God, which by worship of other • ods, have broken the chief point thereof, and loosed the faith due unto one God alone. Deut. 5.6, 7.

3 Like as if a man would take to his wife a common woman out of the open stews, and would first of all prescribe unto her in this sort: If thou wilt abide in this fellowship of our Wedlocke, first it is necessary, that thou abstain from all other men, and keep the faith and Covenant of marriage whole and unbroken only to me, else thou canst not be my wife, nor I thy husband, if thou do with me take others, and return unto thy accustomed filthiness of whoredom: So likewise the Lord dealt with the Israelites, who were used before in Egypt to the worshipping of other God's: who charged them first to cast away the gods which their fathers served in Mesopotamia, and in Egypt, and to serve and worship him only; otherwise he would be no God to them, nor they a people for him. Joshua. 24.14. And so the case is now betwixt God and us.

Church.

1 AS a Ship in the midst of the Sea goeth not toward the haven, unless it have a prosperous gale of wind: Even so the Church of God goeth not to his wished haven, to wit, the Kingdom of heaven, unless it be blown with the Spirit of God, and directed and set on by the same spirit.

2 As a woman that is barren, yet after a long time childeth: Even so it is with the people of God, though they be never so few, and the Church never so small, yet God will multiply and increase it.

3 As the flowers of water Betonye, with the leaves and sprigs, though they die often, and yearly, yet the root is ay-lasting, from which they come, and to which they belong: so though discipline, and the outward beauty of the Church, change and often die, yet the Church is lasting, and of all continuance.

4 As in the blew Lysimachus, Cow-wheat, and winter Sauorie, and likewise the Affodill, the lower partes and branches of them begin to flower: So in many Churches and families, the inferior persons begin to profess God first, and show forth themselves by an holy profession.

5 As the herb Sophia groweth especially and best, where as there hath been in times hast any building, now laid waste: So many cannot grow well and wax rich enough, without the Church be laid waste: many grow best, where they have pulled down all: but the Church groweth best where Popery is utterly defaced and pulled down.

6 As the flowers of Goats-beard, and Sansprge do, always bend toward the Sun: So the Church bendeth always to Christ.

7 As by the description of the Facon, and nature of the true Meum, the common used is found counterfeit: So by the description of the true Church, the common reputed is found false.

8 As the diseases of the body be of two sorts, some cureable, and some incurable, which are to death: So the Church, though it be subject to sundry falls, cannot err in foundation to death, for the errors of God's children be cureable.

9 As where the dead carcass is, thither resort the Eagles: Even so where are men that truly believe in Christ, there is the Church.

10 As false and counterfeit Coyners who would not have men to know and discern their money by the fineness of Gold and Silver, and by the touchstone, but by the weight, by the sound, by the stamp, & by the color, which they may easily falsify: Even so our adversaries the Papists would make us believe, that the true Church cannot be known by these two marks; to wit, the sincere preaching of the word, and the administration of the Sacraments, according to the institution of Christ, but rather by certain outward marks, to wit, by antiquity, multitude, succession of places, and persons, by miracles, and revelations, which marks in very deed are common, both to the pure and sound Church, and also to the impure and corrupt Church.

11 Like as if one should tie or fasten to the body of a man, some piece of flesh, bone, or sinew; were it done never so cunningly: yet that should not be counted or called any part or member of that body, seeing it receiveth neither life nor motion from the soul thereof; but doth wholly depend upon the cunning and workmanship thereof: So we confess, that here upon earth is a Church, a fellowship and communion of Saints; that is to say, the congregation of the faithful, not gathered together by the will of man, human reason, or worldly inuension, but thorough the holy Ghost, not tied or limited to any one place, but distributed according to God's good will and pleasure; to the which Church hypocrites and such like are joined and tied, but not united or participating like as members thereof. Mat. 16.17. 1. Cor. 12.3.

12 As a heap of wheat, though it have chaff in it, is yet called wheat: or as a tun of Wine, though it have Lees in it, is yet called wine: or as a field wherein tares appear with the wheat, is a corn field: Even so the visible Church is the Church, though it consisteth of good and bad, and be mixed of the elect and reprobate, yet are they called God's Church for the elect sake, and have their denomination from the better, not the bigger part. Math. 25.32. & 3.12. & 13.47. 2. Timo. 2.20.

13 Like as a wife is a wife although she obey not her husband, as long as she keepeth the faith she plight in marriage, and defileth not her self with an others bed: Even so is it in the Church, that although she be manifoldly undutiful towards her husband Christ Jesus, either by Atheism, or by Idolatry, yet she remaineth still the wife of Christ.

14 As a wife that hath broken her saith and promise made in Wedlocke, is not forthwith out of the account of a wife, until she being convicted thereof, be for that cause divorced from her husband: Even so the Church, notwithstanding her spiritual adultries, is not vnchurched, nor ceaseth to be reputed a Church, until such time as the Lord by taking away from her the ministry of the word, and the administration of the Sacraments, hath as it were, by bill of diuorse disauowed her, by taking away from her all her Jewels and Ornaments wherewith he bewtified her, when first he contracted with her.

15 Like as a Garden or Vine decayeth with our much heat and drought, except after the planting thereof, it be by showers watered: Even so the Church, with over much heat of afflictions withereth away, except afterwards it be moistened by the water of the holy Ghost, which is the sincere preaching of the Gospel.

16 As there be three forms in one and the selfsame School, and be not all alike taught, and yet make not sundry schools, but contain sundry scholars and learners in one selfsame school: So likewise is the Church not made many, neither by alteration of times, neither by difference of places, nor by changes of orders and dispensations.

17 As there be in one School diverse Vshers, & diverse teaching, but yet all tending to one end; to wit, to attain learning, and so to come to the University: Even so the true Church of Christ before the Law, and under the Law, and since in the time of the Gospel, have been diverse instructors, as Prophets, Apostles, Pastors and teachers, but yet all aiming at one mark, and laboring to bring the people to the Kingdom of heaven.

18 Like as it is not in the power of any man to dispense, minister, or distribute any parte of that nourishment which he receiveth in at his mouth, unto any member, which either is mortified and dead in his body, or that is cut off from the same: Even so it is undoubtedly to be believed, that neither the death, passion, and blood-shedding of our Savior Christ, nor his Sacraments, nor any of the graces of the holy Ghost, nor any good work in the world, do or can anything profit to remission and forgiveness of sins, or salvation to any person, which is out of the Catholic Church, as long as he shall so stand and continue out of the same.

19 Like as if a subject knowing the Letters of his Prince, and also his Seal, should, because that he knoweth them well, and alloweth them to be his, presume and take upon him to counterfeit his Princes Letters or Seal, he should be no true subject, but a Fellone and a Traytour: Even so if the Church, because that she knoweth the Scriptures of the old and new Testament, to be the true and infallible word of her Lord and Savior, and the Sacraments to be his Seals, should presume or take upon her, to alter God's word; I mean the scriptures that be contained in the Canonical books of the old & New Testament, or to counterfeit the Sacraments; that is to say, to minister them otherwise then her Lord and master hath instituted and appointed in his word, she ought not to be called the true Church, but the most traiterous harlot of Antichrist.

20 As it is great folly for a man that hath a mote in his eye, to grow into such a chafe or dislike with it, that so he should be unthankful for his eye: Even so it is much more folly for men to separate themselves from our Church, and wholly to condemn it, by reason that there be some imperfections and wants in it, which is a means to breed unthankfulness, by forgetting the manifold blessings which we have received, and do still enjoy, which is the ready way to provoke God rather in his justice, to take away these good benefits that we enjoy already, then in mercy to provoke him to increase them more.

21 As the glory of God, is shown most herein, that he defendeth his spouse, and hath bewtified her with gifts frō above, that she might be a pure and undefiled spouse, chaste and holy unto himself: Even so this is our greatest glory, of what state or condition so ever we be, to be members of this Church, by the Communion whereof, we are his members.

22 As a man will not wittingly bestow a Diamond upon him that thinks it to be but a piece of Glass; or a Pearl of him, that esteemeth it to be but a grain of salt: Even so the Lord will not bestow his blessings but upon those, that by his Spirit shall know and feel what they are; for if they feel them not, and know not what they are, then they are not yet of God's house or Church. Heb. 3.6.

23 As it is not enough to set or sow a garden with good herbs and seeds, and then let it alone, but there must be a Gardener to oversee it, to dress it, and often to weed it: Even so it is not sufficient for a Church to have the word planted and sown in it, but there must be diligent & painful Preachers & Pastors continually to water and govern it, or else it will grow barren and fruitless.

24 Like as if the land be not often tilled, but lie barren, it will bring forth nothing but briars, thistles, and nettles: Even so if Churches be not continually labored by Preaching and Catechising, they will wax secure, and so bring forth nothing but ignorance, Atheism, superstition, idolatry, and all wickedness of life.

25 As the army of heaven is innumerable, and the sand of the sea immeasurable: Even so God will multiply his Church. Jer. 33.22.

26 As the Bride pertaineth to none but to the Bridegroom: So likewise the Church pertaineth to Christ alone. Hose. 2.19. 2. Cor. 11.2. John. 3.29.

27 As every true friend to the Bridegroom rejoiceth to see the Bridegroom's voice obeyed: Even so every godly man is glad to see every member of the Church to frame themselves to the obedience of the word of Christ.

28 As a Giant is too strong for mean men of middle size, and as his voice and look is fearful to his enemies: So likewise will God be to all such as rise up against him and his Church. Esa. 42.13.

29 As a waste ground broken up and rid of those things wherewith it was overgrown, and the fruitfulness thereof hindered, is by good husbandry brought to flourish and to be fruitful: even so, such is the state of the Church, when after persecution, it pleaseth God to send peace and prosperity thereto. Isaiah. 33.1, 2.

30 As men hedge their grounds round about to keep them from being spoiled with cattle: Even so GOD doth fence his Church, and those which fear him round about, that they may be defended against all evils.

31 As the grounds, are eaten, wasted, devoured, and rooted up, when the hedges and fences thereof are neglected, and suffered to lie open: Even so it fareth with the Church, and with them that profess the name of God, when he is provoked with their sins, in withdrawing his friendly defense, and fatherly protection from them.

32 As the Shipmaisters are such as have cunning to guide the ship, wherein both themselves and other men do sails: So almighty God, maketh choice of such to guide his Church, as can govern themselves, and so many as are committed to their charge.

33 As that bush which Moses saw, was burning, but not consumed: Even so the Church of God must be tried in the fire of affliction, but not destroyed. Exo. 3.2.

34 As the Moon is sometimes eclipsed, and sometimes in the full: So likewise the Church of GOD is subject to darkness, as in the time of Popery and superstition.

35 As the Moon doth borrow her light of the Sun, because of her self she hath little, or none at all: Even so the Church of God having no light of it self, doth take her light from the Son of God Christ Jesus.

36 As jealousy cannot abide that the wife should show any sign of love to another man: Even so Almighty God cannot brook that the Church his spouse, should take the least part of of his glory from him, and bestow it upon a strange God, that is both hopeless, and helpless. Exo. 20.4, 5. Deut. 6.13. Math. 4.10.

37 As the Ark was long and broad So the Church and Kingdom of Christ is long and large. Psal. 71.8. Gene. 6.14, 15.

38 As the Ark was great and large, and yet small in comparison of the flood: Even so the Elect are many (no doubt) but few in respect of the reprobate. Luk. 12.32. Math. 22.14. & 24.22. & 7.14.

39 As the Ark was made of many pieces of wood, and joined together in one: So the Church consisteth of many members knit together in one faith: For in Christ Jesus we are all one, without difference of man or woman.

40 As the Ark was made of incorruptible wood: Even so the Church consisteth of immortal souls.

41 As the Ark did float in the flood: even so the Church is in this world, as in a sea of troubles. Act. 14.22.

42 As one Billow in the sea pusheth forward another: So likewise troubles do come upon the Church by troupes.

43 As the Moon is not always visible being in hir change: So likewise the Church of God to the eye of man, is not always in a visible show, as the proud Church of Rome is, but hath sometime war and adversity, sometime peace and prosperity.

As a Ship upon the seas is tossed with the wind and waves from one place to another: Even so is the Church often tossed hither and thither in this sea of this world, but yet never drowned, because Jesus Christ is in it, and holdeth the stern with his hand.

44 As the hand cut off from the body, dieth, and lacketh life: Even so it is in the mystical body of the Church, no life or saluatiō without the body of Christ. Ezech. 13.9. Joel. 2.32. Act. 2.47.

45 As trees in winter which for that they are naked, and void both of leaves and of fruit, do seem for the time little to differ from dead and starved trees, and yet have secretly hid in them their Iuice, which maketh thē spring again, and as it were revive again in Summer: Even so such is the state of the Church of God, which though in bitter persecution, seemeth to be as it were quenched and extinguished, yet when God giveth some peace and rest, it flourisheth and springeth again.

46 As a Vine when the fences thereof are broken, lieth open to the waste, and is spoiled of every beast of the field: Even so the Church and people of God, when for their sins he seemeth for a time to withdraw his protection and defense, is subject to the injuries and violence of all sorts of the wicked.

47 As ground and soil that hath lain long waste, by good husbandry is rid and often brought to flourish with corn or grass: Even so the Church of God after long persecution, is by the power and goodness of God, brought again to a flourishing estate.

48 Like as if a man should have both his hands and his arms cut off, his eyes put out, &c: yet as long as his head standeth and other vital parts, he is to be counted a man, although a maimed man: Even so it is in the Church or assembly, as long as it holdeth the head, how defective it is otherwise, it hath the due and right of the Church of God.

49 And although a man should have six fingers on one hand, and but three on the other, and albeit they should stand where the mouth doth, yet all this deformity should not hinder from being truly holden to be a man, although it would be a great deformity in him: of the other part, if he had no head at all, or there were no natural conjunction of the parts one with the other, but a whole through displacing of every part from his proper seat, then verily could he not be deemed to have either the proportion of a man, or his life: So likewise if an assembly hold not the head which is Jesus Christ, or be nothing else but a confused multitude, without any part of the order which the son of God hath appointed, the same is justly crossed out of the account of God's Church.

50 As he that entereth into a fair and goodly goldsmithes shop, richly furnished with precious Pearls, and costly Jewels of all sorts, ought not to mislike those excellent things, and costly treasures, because he seeth among them, a black furnace, dustie coals, and sundry instruments of base metal, because these instruments, coals, and furnace, must needs be had to make those Jewels; as Chaines, Earings, and Bracelets of Gold, withal: So in the Church of God, where are innumerable men, some famous for their wisdom, some renowned for their godliness, some forward & fervent in Christian love & charity: many excelling in all kind of virtues: if a man see there some unlearned, some deceiver • , some wicked ones, some tyrants, and many ungodly ones, he ought not therefore to pick a quarrel against the Church of Christ, nor yet to think of the ruin and destruction of the same.

51 As the Lawyer who hath no further power but to expound the Law, is under the Law: So the Church which hath authority only to publish and expound the Scriptures, cannot authorize them unto us, but must submit her self unto them.

52 As the Ocean sea which is but one, is divided into partes, according to the regions and countries against which it lieth, as into the English, Spanish, Italian sea, &c: Even so the Church dispearsed over the face of the whole earth, is divided into other particular Churches, according as the countries are several in which it is seated; as into the Church of England and Ireland, the Church of France, the Church of Germany, &c.

53 As the superfluous humors in the veins are no parts of the body: Even so the ungodly, though they be in the Church, yet indeed they are no parts of it. Math. 13.25.47.

54 As the Carkasse of a dead man that weareth a living man's garment, is not a living man though he look never so like him: Even so the Church of Rome now at this day, is of a spouse of Christ, become an harlot, and in very deed is no true Church of Christ.

55 As in a family children are for the most part one like another, and brought up alike: Even so it is in God's family, which is his Church: the members thereof are all alike in heart and affection; and the reason is, because they have one spirit to guide them all. Act. 4.32. Isaiah. 11.6.7.

56 Even as in the field there groweth up not only sound corn, but also tares, cockell and darnel: Or as in the Floore there is not only pure Wheat, but also Chaff: and as in the Nette, there is not only good things, but bad, as filth and such like: So in the militant and visible Church, the field, floor, and Nette of the Lord, there are not only sincere and faithful, but also hypocritical and faithless worshippers of GOD, not only constant and upright doers of the word, but also vain and idle talkers of the same: yea not only such as with good consciences, pure hearts, and faith unfeigned, do serve the Lord and his Church, but such also as be reprobate to every good work, whose ende is to be cast eternally from the presence of God, and to be burned as chaff in the fearful furnace of God's wrath, and everlasting indignation.

57 As the appetite of a woman ought to be to her husband: so the appetite of the Church, ought to be to Christ. Cant. 5.7.

58 As the woman bringeth forth her children in sorrow and pain: Even so the Church bringeth forth in grief of member, and loss of limbs.

59 As a woman must be obedient to the voice of her husband, and learn of her husband at home: even so the Church that is good, must be ruled by Christ, and not rule Christ; Christ's scholar, and not Christ's schoolemaister.

60 Even as John that bare witness of Christ, did confess that he was not worthy to loose Christ's shoo-latchet: Even so the Church, though it bear witness of Christ in respect of credit and authority, is not worthy to loose Christ's shoo-latchet.

61 Like as when Christ put forth himself and began to be known to the people: John said: It behooveth me to wax less, and him to wax greater: So when the Church hath given a man to understand of Christ, and that Christ beginneth to appear unto us, the Church decreaseth in authority and estimation like John, and Christ increaseth and waxeth greater in authority and credit.

62 As the light of the Sun availeth not him that lieth in a dark and close dungeon, where is always night and never day: Even so the graces of God do nothing help those that lie in darkness, and shadow of death, until they have access into the Church of Christ, and so to be of the number of the faithful. Ephe. 2.19. Rom. 5.10.

63 As a builder or chief master of any works doth not offend in building, but because it happeneth sometimes, that being occupied with other thoughts and fantasies not pertaining to the building, he doth sometimes slide and fail in his work: Even so it cannot be gathered by the force of the promise made to the Church, that all things always are rightly defined in the Church, for the greater part overcometh the lesser, and the worst the better.

64 Like as when Hester had procured safety for the Jews, and liberty to revenge themselves upon their enemies: it is said, that many of the people of the Land became Jews: Hest. 8.17. Even so, considering Christ hath procured freedom from hell, death and damnation for all that believe in him, we should labor above all things to become new creatures, joining our selves always to the true Church of God.

65 As the body is blind that wanteth eyes to see withal, and lame, maimed or deformed, whereof the shoulders, arms, hands, or other principal parts are wanting or displaced and disordered: So in like manner, that body of a Church cannot be said to be perfect and entire, wherein there are not Ministers of the word, who by the light thereof may direct the people in the ways of God, or Elders that may discover and descry every matter that may threaten any danger to the body; or Deacons, who may distribute liberally according to that that is in their hands, for the relief of the poor.

66 As Christ himself when he was railed upon, gave no evil words again: Even so the true Church of Christ is known in this, that it suffereth persecution, and doth not persecute again.

67 As wise King Solomon judged her to be the true mother of the child, which had such compassion on it, that she had rather forgo the whole, then have it divided and dismembered, and the other to be the harlot, that had ouerlaine her child, which had also consented to the death of the other child: Even so in like manner we may discern evidently the Romish Church of Antichrist by her bloody persecutions, from the true Church and spouse of Christ; the one with sword and fire, seeketh always to quench the truth; the other through the spirit of lenity, to win men to the same: the one by compulsion & violent oppression, the other by persuasion, & meek intercessiō: the one by the sword, the other by the word: the one goeth about to pervert and deprave, the other seeketh all means to convert and save.

68 As a King is stablished in his Kingdom, when his godly Laws are taught and kept, and that Realm is strongly built and blessed of God, where good order is maintained: So is God's Church and congregation well and surely built, where God's word and Religion is purely taught, sin punished, and virtue embraced.

69 Like as whatsoever is in the body receiving no life nor power from the body, is not properly a part of the body, howsoever it seem to be joined to the body: So the wicked, although they be in the outward face of the Church, yet because they are not partakers of the spiritual life thereof by Christ, are not truly to be judged members of it.

70 As in every well ordered Kingdom, the whole Realm should be of more authority then the King: So the Church ought to be of more authority then the Pope, though he were Prince thereof.

71 As the Ark was carried from place to place, and never rested in one certain place: So likewise the millitant Church here on earth, hath no certain place, but is posted from pillar to post. Joshua. 3.14.17. 1. Sam. 4.3.4. &c.

72 As in the body of a man there is a full furniture of all members needful to the discharge of their several duties, which are known both how many they are, and what they are: Even so likewise is it in the Church.

73 As the want of a member, as one eye, or a hand, breedeth grief: So in like manner the want of a member in the Church, as a faithful Minister, which is the eye, or of a Deacon, which is the hand, must needs be grievous.

74 As the disorder of a member in the body, as to have an eye where a nose should be, or a foot for the hand, &c. causeth both horror and grief: So the like disorder in the Church of God, must needs be horrible and grievous.

75 Like as in the body of man, every member hath his several function to discharge, & no one member can discharge the duty of another: So also it ought to be in the Church of God.

76 As all the several members in the body of man are knit together and united to the head: So all the several members of the Church, are knit and united unto the head Christ.

77 As in the natural body, every several member, is as it were the member of every other, in serving to their good; as the eye will see, the hand will take, the mouth will speak, all for the good of any weak member: Even so it is in the Church of God.

78 As the natural members take spirit and sense from the head: So the Church hath all her spiritual feeling and life of Christ, who is able to quicken and give life.

79 As the husband that loveth his wife, thinketh himself not well, till she hath his company, and he her presence: So God loveth the Church his spouse, that he cannot abide to be without her company, and thinks her not safe, except she be in his presence; therefore it pleaseth the Lord Jesus, not only to call himself the head of his Church, and the Church his body, but also to term his Church the fullness of himself, although he filleth all in all things, as though he were imperfect without his Church. Psal. 41.12. Ephe. 1.23.

80 Even as the father or mother will have that Infant in their sight, which they love most dearly: So God will have his Church in his sight, which he loveth-most tenderly. Isaiah. 45.15.16.

Christ our Righteousness.

1 LIke as our sins appeared so horrible, so great, so monstrous and ugly in the presence of God, that (being once but imputed to Christ) he could not, (notwithstanding that his unspeakable love) but even in justice most severely punish our said sins in his son: so surely (such is the excellency of the Righteousness of Christ, that being once but imputed unto us in the presence of our heavenly Father) he cannot (notwithstanding all our former unrighteousness) but be throghly pleased with us, and except such a discharge of our sins by his Son, for our own discharge: none otherwise then the debt of a Banquerout (discharged by some special friend) is accounted and accepted with his creditor, the discharge of the Banquerout himself.

2 As the soul of a man doth so quicken the body, that notwithstanding the menbers thereof in themselves, be but weak, yet they are sure not to decay, all the while they do hold any participation with the powers of the soul; but appear in the presence of men, both lusty and strong: So undoubtedly our Savior Christ being that immortal soul of his mystical body, which inspireth spiritual life into all the members thereof, verily all those his said members are sure (so long as they continue incorporate with Christ) both to hold the substance of life, and withal to be accounted as lively members in the presence of God, during their partitipation with that true life it self, whereof they take sure hold by a lively faith. John. 14.6. 1. John. 5.11, 12.

3 As Cochlearia, or Spoonewort, the root of the water Lily, and likewise Telephium, and Gentian, laid to the body taketh away black spots: So Christ applied to the conscience, purgeth it from dead works.

4 As Smilax aspera, or rough Bindeweede serveth not only against venom received aforehand, but also against all poison taken after a man hath eaten it: So Christ received by faith, profiteth not only against the sins which before hath been committed, but also done afterward.

5 So long as a man stung with a Scorpion holdeth wild Carthamus in his hand, he feeleth no pain: but so soon as he letteth it go, the ache and pain taketh him a fresh: So as long as a man stung with sin holdeth Christ by faith, he feeleth no torment of conscience, but so soon as he letteth him go, the terrors of death take him a fresh.

6 As the people of Israel, passing through the Wilderness, had to fight oftentimes against Serpents, and when they were stung and smitten by them, for to be preserved from the venom, and from death, they lifted up their eyes toward the Brasen Serpent that Moses had set up amidst their tents, by sight whereof they were healed: So we in like manner fighting against our concupiscences, if it come to pass at any time that they give us any blow, to the ende that this stripe may not be deadly unto us, we must lift up our eyes towards Jesus Christ hanging upon the Cross, and beseech him, that he would forgive us all our trespasses, and be our Righteousness. John. 3.14.15.

7 As in a natural body, the power that the eye hath to see, serveth more to the use of the other members thē for it self, because that seeing and marking them all, it is watchful rightly to guide them, and to direct their actions, not being able in the mean time to see themselves, nor to serve it self: Even so the Righteousness, innocence, and obedience of Christ Jesus, stand us in more stead then him, seeing that notwithstanding he had all these things, and was in his nature, life, and whole conversation, absolute and perfect, yet for all this, he was condemned and crucified: We on the contrary part, albeit his Righteousness, innocence, and obedience, be only imputed unto us, yet for all that, by means of this imputation, we are absolved, justified, and discharged of all our sins, and of all the accusations that all our enemies can bring against us.

8 As it is enough that we gather the fruit of a tree, and that it always remain in his place, and that we carry it not away with us: So in like manner we must content our selves to be partakers of the fruits of Christ his Righteteousnesse, albeit it be not essentially in us; but only by imputation, and in as much as through his only mercy it is bestowed upon us.

9 Like as they do, that go up into an high Tower, who looking downwards, and seeing the depth, are afraid to fall, and that they may be the more sure, they lay hold of the rails: Even so must we lean upon the Righteousness and death of Christ Jesus, and strengthen our selves in that, to the end we may be preserved from falling.

10 Like as in Winter we can no sooner be from the fire, but we are cold: nor out of light, but we enter into darkness: Even so we can no sooner be parted from Jesus Christ, who is is our Righteousness and our life, but straight we are in sin and in death; for as much as he is the life that quickeneth us, the Sun that giveth us light, and the fire that warmeth, comforteth, and refresheth all his members. 1. Cor. 1.30. Rom. 5.19. Isaiah. 53.4, 5. Col. 1.20.

11 As the Moon hath no light, but that which it hath from the Sun, and as the light is little, or great, as it is near or far off, in such sort, that if it depart from it, it remaineth altogether obscure and dark: Even so in like manner the Church hath no light, Righteousness, life, health, strength and happiness, but that which it hath pleased her Husband Christ Jesus to give unto her, because of that union and fellowship which he hath with her. Wherefore if at any time she be separated from him, and that there be a diuorse between her and her Husband, there remaineth to her nothing but darkness, vice, and wretchedness. 2. Cor. 5.18.19. John. 11.25.

12 As Merchants which are of one Company, & become partners, are partakers of all the profits, losses and damages which grow of their Marchandise: Even so Jesus Christ, by reason of that society we have together with him, giveth us a part, and we likewise give him of all that we have and possess. The difference that is in this, is, that the gains and losses that come amongst men, is equal and common amongst them all; but here we gather up all the fruits that arise of the Righteousness of Jesus Christ: he on the contrary part taketh upon him, and chargeth himself with all the damages and losses that come of our disobedience. Rom. 6.4.8.17. Ephe. 2.23.

13 Like as when a man looks upon things directly through the air, they appear in their proper forms and colors, as they are: but if they be looked upon through a green glass, they all appear green: So likewise if GOD behold us as we are in our selves, we appear as vile and damnable sinners: but if he look upon us as we are presented before the throne in heaven, in the person of our Mediator Christ Jesus, willing that we should be approved for his merits, then we appear without all spot and wrincke before him. Rom. 8.34.

14 As Christ hath taken away our sins by his suffering: So likewise he hath also clothed us with his Righteousness.

15 As it is not enough for a beggar to come before a King without his rags, unless he have convenient apparel. So in like manner, it is not enough for us to have our filthiness done away, unless we be clothed with convenient Righteousness.

Contemplation of heavenly things.

AS they which come out of the clear Sun, into the shadow, have their eyes dim and dark: So he which cometh from the contēplation of things divine, into things human, cometh from clear light, to the great clouds, myst and darkness.

Concord.

AS the stone called Tyrrhenus, being whole, swimmeth, but being broken, every piece doth sink: So by Concord we be sustained and holden up, but by discord and strife, we come to decay & ruin. Act. 2.44.46. Rom. 13.13.

Content.

1 AS they that be bound, do judge them at liberty most happy, or as the Country men do judge the Citizens happy and rich: the rich men again do say the Lord's are happy, the Lord's the Kings, and the Kings again do judge the people in most pleasure: So are such never with their own state contented, which will behold by how much they are inferior to others. Phil. 4.11. 1. Timo. 6.6.

Conscience good, or evil.

1 LIke as the body, when it is in good health is strong, and able to bear the great storms and cold of winter, and likewise the excessive and intemperate heat of the Summer: Even so a Conscience that is whole, and fully resolved, can bear stoutly all accidents, without yielding or shrinking under the burden and weight of anything whatsoever may happen unto it. Act. 24.16. Pro. 15.15. 2. Cor. 1.12. 1. Timo. 1.5. 2. Timo. 1.3. Heb. 13.18. 1. Pet. 3.16.21.

2 And as a good Conscience is as Sugar to sweeten and mollify all our affections: Even so the other is as sharp Vinegre, which soureth and troubleth all our joys and consolations: and as the one is sufficient to resist all temptations, even so the other is soft, cowardly, and vanquished, as soon as it is assailed. 1. Timo. 4.2. Tit. 1.15.

3 As we are curious in looking to the health of our bodies, observing for that purpose, the diet and government that is delivered and appointed by the Physician unto us, and contrariwise, abstaining from all those meats and excess which may offend and alter our health: Even so, to the end that we may have the same desire and care to preserve that health for our souls, it is convenient that we mark diligently all the rules and ordinances of good life, which God the most high and sovereign Physician, hath appointed us: and on the contrary side, to take heed, to avoid and shun all that which he hath prohibited and forbidden us.

4 Like as it is a great pleasure and joy for a man, who returning home, after alōg & wearifome journey unto his own house, findeth there his wife, who cometh to take him about the neck, and embraceth him, kissing, and making much of him: this courteous entertainment maketh him by and by to forget all his travel which he hath endured in his iournie. And contrariwise, if he find his wife, after his return, brawling, riotous, froward, and who instead of comforting him, would all manner of ways vex and torment him: this doing, no doubt would increase and double his pains and torments, which he hath endured in his long journey: Even such is the estate of the Conscience. Although that our enemies commit a thousand outrages, violences, and villains against us, if we returning from our selves, and entering into our own Conscience, find there one with a cheerful & merry countenance, which doth comfort and content us, it maketh us in a moment to forget all our enemies: but on the other side, if we have an evil Conscience, it wearieth us in such sort, that we shall not find any house worse then our own, nor any place where we may worse quiet our selves then with our selves.

5 Lke as an evil Conscience is as a straight bed, in which a man cannot stretch himself, nor turn himself at pleasure, because it is a hard thing for a man there to sleep well, and rest quietly: Even so likewise a man which hath a festered Conscience, he cannot find any place or condition to content him, and which is not altogether too straight for him.

6 As there is no other mean to answer to the judgment of God, & that can pacify our Consciences, but the righteousness and innocence of Jesus Christ, and not our own; Even so is it he alone, which can stand us instead to satisfy the judgment of our Consciences.

17 Even as untamed horses set to a chariot do overturn the same: So unbridled and unmortified affections overruling the understanding, do clean overthrow a good Conscience.

8 Even as our first Parents Adam and Eve, were cast out of Paradise for tasting the forbidden fruit: So our Paradise is a good Conscience; the forbidden fruit, are riches, honor, and pleasure: and therefore if we set our affections upon riches, honor and pleasures, we must needs be cast from the fruition of our Paradise a good Conscience.

9 Even as two Turtle Doves, when one eateth, the other eateth, they sleep together, yea and die together: Even so a good Conscience and the graces of God in us, they increase together, and die together.

10 As a fair and beautiful countenance is pleasant and gracious in a man's eyes: Even so a good and purified Conscience, is acceptable and delightsome in the sight of God.

11 As overmuch fullness of the stomach, and superfluity of meats, groweth that obstruction which the Physicians do call oppilation, or stopping, whereupon breedeth a continual headach, and that frenzy, which bringeth men to a madness: Even so, of a depraved and dishonest love of this life, of the corruption of manners, of gluttony and excess eating: doth spring an unbridled and untamed lust, whereof ariseth that phereneticall madness of heretics, and a corruption of their understanding in matters of faith: so that they which care not to keep a good Conscience, do at length fall to an incurable contempt of faith. 1. Timo. 1.5.19.

12 Like as if we have a child, that by crying is grievous unto us, we seek to appease and still him, either by threats or promises, by gifts or stripes, but if he will not be so stilled, either we can send him away from us, or we our selves go from him, that we may not be troubled with his crying: But our Conscience once feeling or apprehending the wrath of GGD even but a little, will never suffer us to be quiet, promise, threaten, give, strike, what ever you do, still it crieth louder and louder, and still it tormenteth: yea when you seek to send it away, it sticketh closer unto you, neither can you depart from it, for being in you, it is always at hand.

13 Even as he which is troubled with a burning fever, is hotter then he which is parched with the Sun: So is that man more troubled which hath a guilty Conscience, then a good man by all outward afflictions.

14 As the sick man, when he seems to sleep and take his rest, is inwardly full of troubles: So the benumbed and drowsy Conscience, wants not his secret pangs and terrors; and when it shall be roused and wakened by the judgment of God, it waxeth cruel and fierce like a wild beast.

15 Even as all renewed wounds, are hardly or never cured: So likewise when a man sins against his Conscience, as much as in him lieth, he plungeth himself into the gulf of desperation: for every wound of the Cōscience, though the smart of it be little felt, is a deadly wound: and he that goes on to sin against his Conscience, cannot call upon the name of God, for a guilty Conscience makes a man fly from God.

16 As a Notarie or a Register that hath always the pen in his hand, to note and record whatsoever is said or done, who also because he keeps the Rolls and Records of the Court, can tell what hath been said and done many hundred years past: Even so the Conscience observes and takes notice of all things that we do, and inwardly and secretly within the heart, doth tell us of them all.

17 Like as the Master of a prison is known by this to have care over his prisoners, if he send keepers with them to watch them, and to bring them home again in time convenient: Even so God's care to man, is manifest in this, that when he created man and placed him in the world, he gave him Conscience to be his Keeper, to follow him always at the heels, and to dog him (as we say) and to pry into his actions, and to bear witness of them all.

18 Even as a man being to make an unknown journey, should find one that would go with him, and show him the way, with all the turnings thereof, he could not but take it for a great point of courtesy: So likewise seeing we are Pilgrimes in this world, our life is our journey, and God also hath appointed our Conscience to be our companion and guide, to show us what course we may take, and what we may not.

19 As a wild beast, which so long as he lieth a sleep seems very tame and gentle, & hurts no man: but when he is rowzed, he then awakes and flies in a man's face, and offers to pull out his throat. So likewise it is the manner of a dead and benumbed Conscience, to lie still and quiet, even through the course of a man's life: and hereupon a man would think (as most do) that it were a good Conscience indeed: but when sickness or death approacheth and cometh, it being awaked by the hand of God, begins to stand upon his legs, and shows his fierce eyes, and offers to rend out even the very throat of the soul. Gene. 42.2.

20 As all the virtues of natural men are indeed beautiful sins, and their Righteousness but a carnal Righteousness: So the Conscience also of a carnal man, though it excuse him for well doing, is but a carnal Conscience.

21 Like as when a man enters into his house at midnight, he finds or sees nothing out of order: but let him come in the day time when the Sun shineth, and he shall then espy many faults in the house, and the very motes that fly up and down: Even so let a man search his heart in the ignorance and blindness of his mind, he will straightway think all is well: but let him once begin to search himself with the light and lantern of the Law, and so he shall find many foul corners in his heart and Conscience, and many heaps of sins in his life.

22 As some men seek day and night, from year to year, for honors, riches, and pleasures, which they must leave behind them: So much more ought we to seek for renewed and reformed Consciences: considering that Conscience will be with us in this life: in death, at the last judgment, and forever.

23 As a man arrayed and apparrelled in clothe of Tishue, set in a chair of estate, having before him a table furnished with all dainty delicates: his servants, Monarchs, and Princes, his riches, the chiefest treasures and Kingdoms of the world: but withal, suppose there were one standing by with a naked sword to cut his throat, or a wild beast ready ever and anon to pull him in pieces, we cannot otherwise say, but that this man's estate, and all his happiness, is yet nothing but woe and misery: Even so such is the estate and condition of all men, that abounding with riches, honors, and pleasures, carry about them an evil Conscience, which is a sword to slay the soul, or as a ravenous beast, ready to suck the blood of the soul, and to rend it in pieces.

24 Like as in governing the Ship on the Sea, the Pilot holding the helm in his hand, hath always an eye to the compass: So we likewise in the ordering of our lives and conversations, must always have a special regard to the Conscience.

25 As God gives to the eye certain lids of flesh, to defend and cover it from outward injuries: Even so must we use means to avoid whatsoever may offend or annoy Conscience.

26 Even as a pair of Turtle Doves, when the one feeds, the other feedeth; when one likes not, the other likes not; when the one dies, the other dies: So where good Conscience is maintained, there are many excellent gifts of God flourishing, and where Conscience decays, they also decay.

27 As diseases if they be long neglected become incurable: So the Conscience much and often wounded, admits no comfort; neither will it always boot a man after many years to say, at the last cast, Lord be merciful unto me; I have sinned. Though some be received to mercy in time of death, yet far more perish in desperation, that lived in their sins wittingly and willingly against their own Conscience. Pharaoh, Saul, and Judas, cried all Peccaui, I have sinned against God: yet Pharaoh is hardened more and more, and perisheth: Saul goeth on in his sins and despaireth: Judas made made away himself: And no marvel, for the multitude of sins oppress the Conscience, and makes the heart to ouerflowe with such a measure of grief, that it can fasten no affiance in the mercy of God.

28 As a Ship is on the Sea, if it be not well governed, or if there be a breach made into it, it draws water and sinks, and so both men and wares, and all in likelihood are cast away: So we are all as passengers: the world is an huge Sea through which we must pass: our Ship is the Conscience of every man. 1. Timo. 1.19. &. 3.12. the wares are our Religion and salvation, and all other gifts of God. Therefore it stands us in hand to be always at the helm, and to carry our Sip with as even a course as possibly we can, to the intended porte of happiness, which is the salvation of our souls.

Christians.

1 AS wholesome herbs are in some countries growing plentifully, in other sparingly, somewhere in every high way, otherwhere only in private Gardens, somewhere again they cannot grow at all: So godly Christians are in some places many, in other few: somewhere mewed up in close houses, somewhere again not to be found at all.

2 As some herbs will prosper and grow in the Mountains, some in low grounds, some in shadowie places, some in sunny places, some in the corn field, some on the dry heath, some by the salt Sea coast, some by the sweet Rivers: So the godly Christians grow up, some in high places, some in mean estate, some where they have defense, and some where they are persecuted, &c.

3 As the bastard Narcissus, or yellow crowbellies, flowreth in February, and is in flower under the Snowe: So true Christians show forth their zeal, in the coldest time and age, as Wickliefe, &c. in Popery.

4 As Woodrow an herb all of a most pleasant smell, yet loveth dark shadowie places: So many godly Christians of great gifts, love to live obscurely.

5 As some herbs last but a small time, and yet wholesome herbs; and virtuous for all that: as Monsotaile, Adders-tongue, &c. So many Christians live but a while, and die in the flower of their time, and yet good Christians for all that.

6 As Sothernwood will not flower in every country that it will grow in: So the godly oftentimes profess not, or cannot be suffered to profess openly where they have been called.

7 As Appelles the Painter, much lamented if he should scape but one day wrthout drawing some picture or line: So ought a Christian man be sorry, if that any day should pass without some good work or exercise.

8 As the care of an evil Christian when he is sick, is to desire to be whole, only to live and enjoy the pleasures of the world: Even so the desire of a good Christian, when he is diseased, is to be whole; not so much to live, as to glorify God, and to reform his life.

9 Like as Sheep do know the voice of their own shepherd, and flee from a stranger: Even so godly Christians, acknowledge Christ only their Teacher, and will hear only those that Preach his word soundly, and not credit any other that Preach false doctrine, how great in authority so ever they be; yea though it were an Angel from heaven. Gal. 1.9.9. John. 13.27.

10 As sheep follow their own shepherd, whither soever he goeth: Even so must faithful Christians follow Christ, in life, in persecution, and in glory, beholding his life as a pattern, to lead their lives by; by suffering troubles patiently, so often as it shall please God to lay them upon them, and so afterwards to become partakers of his glory. Math. 11.29. Mat. 20.28. 2. Cor. 8.9. Phil. 2.5.6.7. 2. Timo. 3.12. & 2.11, 12. 1. Pet. 2.21. & 4.1.13. 2. Timo. 2.12. I am. 5.10.

11 As in Infidels living honestly, the spirit of God bridleth the force of sin, and the corrupt nature that it break not out, as it doth in many other: So also in Christians that are indeed godly, the same spirit not only represseth the corruption of nature outwardly: but also mortifieth it within at the root, and regenetateth the whole man into a new creature.

12 Like as when a man hath a journey to go, his mind is to dispatch it in all haste, yet when he is in his travel, he goes but slowly, by reason of some lameness in his joints: Even so likewise many good Christians, who have an earnest desire and purpose to proceed in virtue and godliness all their life long, are yet now and then by the means of their corrupt nature so hindered, that they cannot perform that duty, so fully and exactly, as they purposed to have done. Rom. 7.15.23.

13 As a candle lighteth every man in the house: So likewise should the good behavior, wise dealing, and upright conversation of Christians, shine bright before men, that God by them may be glorified. Math. 5.15.16. 1. Pet. 2.12.

14 As Doves are innocent, simple, and harmless: E • en so Christians ought to be simple and plain in their callings and behavior one towards another; especially such as be professors of the Gospel.

15 As buildings cannot stand except they be borne up by their foundation: So likewise Christians are in an unstable state, except they stay themselves upon Christ. 1. Cor. 3.11.

16 Like as good ground, which when it is tilled and sown, bringeth forth fruit plentifully: Even so those which receive the word preached gladly, believe it steadfastly, and express it in life accordingly, are good Christians. Math. 13.23.

17 As nothing is judged fruitful, but that which bringeth forth fruit plentifully: Even so it is not one or two good things whereby Christians are judged to be good, unless they be filled with the fruit of Righteousness. Phil. 1.11.

18 Like as Vines being let to grow out at large, in small time become wild and fruitless: Even so Christians being given over of God, to run whither flesh and blood would easily be allured, their case is desperate, and their life fruitless. John. 15.5.

19 As Vines being proyned and dressed in such sort as their nature requireth, are fruitful in yielding both bigger and sweeter Grapes: so godly Christians, the branches of Christ the true Vine, so long as they abide in him, shall be manured by God the Father, that careful Husbandman, that their fruit shall be both in quantity more abundant, and in quality more pleasant unto him.

20 Like as every man that trieth maistries, whether it be in running, wrestling, or buffeting, doth with great wariness and diligence forbear the meats, pleasures, and all other things that weaken the powers of the body, or which may abate their nimbleness, and either hinder or disappoint them of the victory: Even so every Christian sustaining a continual encounter, and wrestling with the devil, and their own sinful lusts, and outward enticements, must throughout the whole race of their life, abstain from all things that offend either God, or godly and weak persons.

21 As the Householder that feareth thieves, will cause his house to be diligently watched and looked unto, least the thief come upon him at unawares: So likewise Christians should be wary and watchful, and be prepared for the coming of our Lord and Savior, who will come in an hour wherein we least look for him. Mat. 24.43. James. 5.7, 8.

22 As bones in men's body being the stronger, bear up the skin and flesh which is the weaker: So likewise Christians whom God hath endued with greater strength, should learn to bear with many infirmities in others. Rom. 15.1.

23 As a tree bringeth forth first leaves, then blossoms, and then fruit: So a good Christian ought first to bring forth good thoughts, then good speeches, and after a godly life, to the honor of God, the good of his children, and the salvation of his own soul.

24 As our Savior Christ did not break the bruised reed, nor quench the smoking slaxe, that is, did bear with many infirmities in those which were his Disciples, least he should break off, or quench those good things which began to appear in them: Even so such as are sound and strong Christians, ought also to bear and forbear, to cherish and foster such good things as they shall perceive to begin to live and grow in their weak brethren. Rom. 15.1. 1. Cor. 9.22. Gal. 6.1, 2.

25 Like as men-servants, and maid-servants, attend upon their master and mistress, and yield their duties unto them, upon hope of finding help and friendship at their hands: even so every good Christian ought to be diligent and careful to please God, and to be well content to tarry his leisure, for those graces and mercies which he looketh for at his hands. Psal. 123.2. Math. 8.9.

26 As the child which as yet can use no reason, is for all that a reasonable creature: and the man in a sown feels no power of life, and yet he is not dead: So likewise the Christian man hath many quames come over his heart, and he falls into many a sown, that none almost would look for anymore life of Christ in him, yet for all that he may be a true Christian.

27 As strangers and travelers abstain in Countries where they are strangers, from many things which which would hinder them in their voyage: So good Christians in their passage through this world, should abstain from the lusts of the flesh, which hinder their souls from life everlasting. 1. Pet. 2.11.

28 As that unprofitable servant was grievously punished, who had received a talent of his master, and went and digged it in the earth, and hid it: Even so such Christians as have received any gifts of God, and do not employ them to the common use, benefit and profit of the Church and people of God, shall receive heavy and grievous judgments of God for so doing. Math. 25.30.

29 As Thieves and such other malefactors are executed, and suffer due punishment according to their deservings: So all Christians are to take heed that they deserve not to suffer as murderers, thieves, evil doers, o • busy bodies: but if they suffer for a good Conscience, then they are not to be ashamed. 1. Pet. 4.15.16.

30 As branches cannot bring forth fruit, except they abide in the Vine: So likewise Christians cannot bring forth fruits of Righteousness, except they abide in Christ. John. 15.1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.

31 Like as they which run or wrestle for the best game, do of their own accord abstain from all things, which may either make them short winded, or hinder their lightness, strength, or nimbleness: Even so much more then ought Christians cast off, and abstain from all those things, which may hinder them in the way & course of everlasting life. 1. Cor. 9.25.

32 As an Owl peepes at the Sun out of a barn, but dares not come near it: So likewise some Christians peep at Religion, and will not come to it, but stand aloof, pinking and winking, as though they were more afraid of God, then the devil.

33 Even as a candle, that it may give light unto others, it self is burned and consumed: or as salt it self is bruised and molten, that it may give good season, and a sweet savor unto meat: So a true Christian, especially one advanced to dignity, and placed in authority, should spare no labor, but even break himself with study and care, and undergo any pains to do good, to profit many, and to win some souls to God. Math 5.13.14.

34 Like as in great and sore diseases, all the best remedies that can be devised, are wont to be applied with all speed: Even so the more that Christians see wickedness • nd ungodliness to abound, the more ought they to con • ider by what means they may be remedied, that some may be saved among so many thousands, which are • ard-hearted, and enemies to all good warnings.

35 Even as the children of this world, do witness • hemselues themselves to be all one with the world, by • ollowing their worldly lusts, ambition, covetousness and pleasures: So in like case, Christians show themselves to be made one with Christ by his holy spirit, when they follow Christ step by step, and make his life to serve them as a most perfect rule to lead their life by.

36 Even as the Sailors Gnomon, or rule, which is commonly called the Mariners Needle, doth always look towards the North-pool, and will ever turn towards the same, howsoever it be placed; which is marvelous in that instrument and Needle whereby the Mariners do know the course of the winds: Even so every Christian man, ought to direct the eyes of his mind, and the ways of his heart, to Christ, who is our North-pool, and that fixed and constant North-Star, whereby we ought all to be governed; for he is our hope, and our trust; he is all our strength, whereupon we must still rely.

37 Like as the Gnomon doth ever behold the North-star, whether it be closed and shut up in a Coffer of Golde, Silver, or Woodde, never loosing his nature: So a faithful Christian man, whether he abound in wealth, or be pinched with poverty, whether he be of high, or low degree in this world, ought continually to have his faith and hope, surely built and grounded upon Christ; and to have his heart and mind fast fixed and settled in him; and to follwe him through thick and thin, through fire and water, through wars and peace, through hunger and cold, through friends and foes, through a thousand perilles and dangers, through the surges and waves of envy, malice, hatred, evil speeches, railing sentences, contempt of the world, flesh, and devil; and even in death it self, be it never so bitter, cruel and tyranicall, yet never to loose the sight and view of Christ, never to give over our faith, hope, and trust in him. Can. 8.6. Psal. 16.8, 9. Heb. 12.2.

38 As all Rivers of waters go into the Sea, because they came out of it, and so return to the place whence they came: So likewise every good Christian ought to go and press towards GOD, with all his heart, strength, and power, because he came out from him, and was created of him. He ought therefore to look upon him with the eyes of a steadfast and constant faith, grounded upon his word. Eccle. 1.7.

39 Even as in the midst of the Sphere, is the Centre, from which all lines being drawn, do tend towards their circumference: So a good Christian man, hath God for his circumference: for whatsoever he thinketh, speaketh, or doth, it tendeth to Christ, of whom he is compassed round about. Psal. 32.10. & 91.4. &c. & 125.2.

40 As some Infidels that know not Christ but are mere strangers unto him, do think it better to loose their lives, then to violate their promises and oaths made to their enemies: even so much more Christians in such cases ought to be true and constant. Ezech. 17.18, 19. Joshua. 9.14.18.

41 Even as men's hands were made, that the one might help the other, and the feet also, because they be members of one & the same body: So is it the duty of all Christians, one to succor and to relieve another in afflictions and troubles, seeing the Church of God, is a certain body whereof we are members. 1. Cor. 12.26, 27. Ephe. 5.30.

42 As it should be against nature, that one foot should hinder or smite another: So, it is very unreasonable, and ungodly, that one Christian should not comfort and relieve another, in their tribulations and wants. Gal. 6.2.

43 Like as if Hearbes watered do still continue dry, we justly say they are dead: So likewise we cannot aduow or assure our selves to be Christians, watered with the spirit of Christ, so long as instead of bearing fruit by amendment of life, we continue dry and withered.

44 As he is not rightly called a rich man, that can tell how and by what means a man may be exceeding rich; but he that hath riches of his own, and doth possess them: So he is not a good and right Christian man, that can according to knowledge, dispute and reason of virtue and godliness; and can describe and define of the same: but he that is endued with virtue, and possessed with true godliness, and doth most willingly practice the same in the whole course of his life, both with his friends, and with his foes: that man, and such a woman, is rightly called, and is indeed a true Christian, in whom the Lord hath great delight. 1. Cor. 8.1.

45 As burning candles do give light until they be consumed: So likewise godly Christians must be occupied in doing of good, so long as they shall live. Gal. 6.9.10.

46 As unto the ungodly man, said God, why doest thou Preach my Laws, and takest my covenant in thy mouth, whereas thou hatest to me reformed, and haste cast my words behind thee? So we may be well assured, that it is not enough for Christians to have the Gospel in their mouths, but they must express the truth thereof in their lives: for is not enough to have the name of a Christian, but to be found a Christian indeed.

47 As nature helped not Abraham's own children, but because they lacked Abraham's works, they are called Devils sons: So likewise the bare and naked name of a Christian without virtue, is a bare title without verity; and profiteth not any at all.

48 As the Paschal Lamb was eaten with sour herbs and unleavened bread: So the faithful Christian ought to repent him of his evil life past, and to give himself to purity of life. Exod. 12.8.

49 Even as a man that passeth through a strong flood or stream on foot, least he stumble and fall down, setteth his eye steadily upon the firm Land which he mindeth to attain unto, and marketh not the swift course of the water, and so goeth over safely and is nothing dismayed: So likewise a sound and good Christian, passing the raging waves of present troubles, turneth away his sight, his thought, and all apprehension, that he might otherwise have of the misery of them; and lifting up his eyes to heaven, beholdeth there with a spiritual regard, the inestinable treasures of the heavenly inheritance which he striveth unto, and by this means easily surmounteth all horror and fear of torments and griefs, which commonly make alterations in men's heads, and casteth them headlong into desperation.

50 Even as every beast that is stricken with lightning, turneth his face toward the lightning: So likewise if Christians will have regard to God when he pleaseth them, he will compel them also to have an eye to him when he strikes them. Psal. 78.34.5.

51 Like as the deawy drops, after great heat doth cherish the grass: Even so good Christians do bring forth works of mercy, pity, comfort, and refreshing, to the people amongst whom they do live and are conversant. Mica. 5.7.

Common-wealth.

1 AS they which do learn Music at the first, do leese, break, and mar sundry Instruments, as Gitterns and Lutes: So the Common-wealth susteineth great detriment and loss, wherein Magistrates rude and unskillful do rule.

2 As it is a thing most hard and dangerous, to root up old trees, and to plant them of new: So without great tumult and uproar, you cannot alter the old custom and usage of the Common-wealth.

3 As water mingled with wine, maketh it more moderate: So old men, joined with young men, in the administration of the Common-wealth, is most necessary.

4 Even as a body without a soul, is dead, because it useth not the sinews, joints, nor members: So that Common-wealth, or that City, may well and truly be said to be dead, where good Laws, godly Statutes, and holy Ordinances are not used and put in practice, which are the sure binding bands of man's society, and the principal parts of a Common-wealth.

Common people.

AS they which frequent and haunt the school of defense, do live, strive, contend, and fight one with another: So of the Common-people, one loveth, the other spoileth each other.

Carelesse men, who forbear to do well, because others will not do so.

1 LIke as if an Housholder having many servants, and much work for them abroad in the Country, should give them a general commandment to work faithfully together in their common business, and that some of those servants would in their Masters absence be idle and loiter: yet the rest of the servants ought not to be idle, because the other will in no wise consent unto them in the performance of that their appointed task: So likewise those careless Christians, who in a carnal security neglecting the charge of the Lord, and imagining a delay in his coming, shall begin to eat and drink with the drunkards, and to be drunken themselves, and so in playing the loiterers together, they shall justly deserve to be plagued together; for as they have sinned together, so shall they receive their portion together. Math. 24.45.46. &c. & 25.1. &c. Luke. 12.45, 46, 47.

Carelesse and negligent in good things.

1 AS Tiberius the Emperor, who being desirous to have canonized Christ, among the number of Saints, thought it expedient first to have therein the consent of the Senate; but while he waited for their consent, Christ was vncanonized, whereas Tiberius might very well have done it himself: So it is with Carelesse Christians, which in a matter so manifest, will yet weight for others consent, to the hazard of their own salvation, and discovery also of their obstinate folly.

2 Like as if many consenting together to play the good fellows (as they call it) had played the vnthrifts, and so had consumed their portions, and inheritance, and were thereby become the most • eggerly Banquerouts on earth, and heerevppon • he Prince being moved with pity, should say to one of • hem, if thou wilt now forsake the company of that unthrifty assembly, and attend wholly upon my pleasure, and become more honest and thrifty hereafter, I will freely bestow such a Lordship upon thee: If hereupon this man should say to the Prince: I will none of your gift, unless these my companions shall give their consent to the same: in thus doing he should show himself a willful and an unwise man: Even so is the case of all Christians, we are all become prodigal children, we have all run astray; we have wasted our portions, and are become utterly destitute of all goodness; the Lord notwithstanding in his word, doth freely offer unto us a Kingdom, so that we will forsake this perverse and froward generation, with whom we are linckt, as in a cursed community. Shall therefore any good Christian who feeleth the want, and findeth a desire in himself of the proffered possession, withhold himself from the same, for that other his former companions will not grant their consent? we hope no. And therefore such as are wise and fear God, will not prolong to turn unto him by true and unfeigned repentance, until such time as all both tagge and rag, shall consent to the same, for fear the gate be shut: but rather will say with Joshua, If it seem evil in your eyes, &c. Assuring themselves, that if there be but eight souls in the whole world, one family in a Tribe, one household in a City, yea but two men among many thousands: when God shall begin to visit the disobedience of the wicked, and to hurl them headlong to hell: then such as hearken diligently to his voice, shall be safe under his wings, his faithfulness and truth shall be their shield and buckler.

Charity.

1 AS the fire in all workehouses is the Instrument of all Arts, and the means to make things well liked of amongst men: So in the life of man, nothing is well done without love and Charity. 1 Cor. 13.1. &c.

2 As Gold doth excel all metals, is rare and dear, and more fair and durable: Even so Charity doth excel all virtues, and ceaseth not, but is permanent. 1. Cor. 13.13.

3 As the body without the soul enjoyeth no life: So all other virtues without Charity, are cold and fruitless.

Correction.

1 AS salves at the beginning do smart, and yet at the length do heal the wound: So the Correction of the Father or Schoolmaster, though it seem rigorous and sharp, yet it saveth the child from the sink of vices and vanities. Pro. 13.24. & 19.18. & 22.15. & 23.13.

2 As the skillful Physician will not give his strong and bitter pill before his preparative, least the working of it should be hindered by the stubborn and indurate obstructions: Even so the wise parent in curing his sons vices, must not strike before he hath reprehended or premonished; least he be too much cast down and discouraged, or wax obstinate. Pro. 13.24. & 22.15.

3 As Physicians, Surgeons, and Apothecaries, are necessary in a Town for the cure of sickness and bodily wounds: Even so are rods and chastisement for the Correction of the corruptions of the soul. Pro. 19.18. & 23.18. & 29.15.17.

4 Like as Plants reasonably watered do take heart and grow, but too much moisture doth drown and choke them: Even so is it with the minds of children: moderate exercise and labor, advanceth them to goodness; but too much Correction and oppression, dulleth and spoileth them. Col. 3.21.

5 As we use to slack the strings of our bows and lutes, to make them the stiffer, and to hold the better, when we list to shoot or play: So likewise it is needful that Parents and Schoolemaisters should require no more o • their children and scholars, then they are able to do, least they discourage them, and make them to hate their study, or any other thing whereto they would bring them.

6 Like as if we should see a mad man run unto a steep dangerous place, it were much better to stay him, and cause him to be bound, and to be corrected, then to let him go and break his neck: Even so it is in correcting and punishing of offenders and wicked livers.

7 As doctrine is cold without reprehension: So are threatenings without Correction. Zepha. 3.1, 2.

Persecution a means to enlarge the Church.

1 EVen as the Palme-tree, the more it is laden and pressed down, the more it groweth, and stretcheth out, or spreadeth his boughs in length and breadth: So likewise the Church, the more she is persecuted and afflicted, the more force, courage, and liuelinesse, she taketh to her self. Psal. 92.12. Act. 4.3, 4. & 11.19.20, 21. Phil. 1.12, 13, 14.

2 Like as Roses and Lilies are accustomed to flourish and to increase among thorns: So this is a common thing to the Church, to flourish and to increase in the midst of Persecutions. Exod. 1.12.

3 As he that bindeth fire in his Napking, doth not extinguish the same fire, but burneth his Napking, and so the fire is made greater: Even so they which persecute the godly, do only make them more famous, and bring themselves to destruction.

Christ the Redeemer of mankind.

1 LIke as the Sun is said to be a general light to everything, although there be that receive no light at all at it: Even so Christ is called the light of the world, although a great number have no part of the grace of his light, yet his Redemption is universal, because it is so appointed unto all men, that without it, none is, nor can be redeemed. John. 8.12. & 9.5. 1. Timo. 2.6.

Christ received by faith.

1 A As the natural body receiveth life from the head, and is dead without it: and as the branch, though it be never so near the Vine-stock, yet if it abide not in it, and grow not in it, hath no life there from, and therefore withereth: and if it abide in it, then it liketh and fructifieth. And as the hungry and thirsty man hath not the benefit of meat and drink to live by, by coming where it is, seeing it, and knowing it, but by eating and drinking thereof, and digesting it, so that by force of nature, there grow an union betwixt him and his meat: Even so it is as necessary that the faithful be united to their head Christ spiritually, engrafted into him and grow in him by faith, and that everyone that would be saved, eat him and drink him, and that so effectually, as that he may be their spiritual food. For if it be thus, they shall live forever by him; otherwise, they remain in death, wither, and must perish. Neither is it sufficient that we hear or read of him and his merits and passion, but they must be received by faith. Col. 1.18. Ephe. 1.22.23. John. 6.53, 54, 55.

2 As meat & drink being set before us, is taken in by eating thereof to our temporal nourishment: Even so Christ is as surely apprehended of us by faith to our spiritual maintenance in the word preached, and Sacraments ministered, which are the dishes wherein one and the selfsame Christ is offered unto us.

3 As the Soul naturally joined to the body, bringeth forth her effects: So Christ dwelling in us by faith and the holy Ghost, after a spiritual manner, and by a spiritual virtue, doth show his power in us, to enable us to resist sin, and to bridle the corrupt desires of the flesh. 1. Pet. 4.1.

4 As there can be no eating without taking or receiving of meat: So no believing in Christ, without a spiritual receiving and apprehending of him.

How the two Tables of the 10. Commandments be alike.

AS one man may be like another in nature and quality, although the one exceed the other in greatness, degree, and dignity, &c. Even so the second Table of the 10. Commandments, is like in quality and condition, unto the first; yet they are not equal; for the first is in degree of more dignity and excellency, then the second. Math. 22.39.

Confession of our evil deeds to God.

1 LIke as Beggers if they have any good thing, do conceal and hide it, and do only show their rags, and their soars, whereby they may move and stir the compassion of the beholders to pity them: Even so it behooveth us, not to boast our good deeds before God (as the Pharisee did) but to profess and confess our evil deeds, if we will provoke the Lord his mercy towards us, as the Publican did. Luk. 18.9.10.11, &c.

2 As a man that hath money to pay, whilst he hath it in his hand, is loath to part with it, but when he hath once paid it, he is glad that it is discharged, and would not for anything it were to pay again: Even so men, before they have confessed their sins, are unwilling to disburthen themselves of them: but when Confession is once made, they have eased their hearts, and discharged their consciences, conceiving such comfort, as they would not for all the world it were to do again. Psal. 91, 1, 2. &c.

3 As they which have in their stomachs meat undigested, or store of ill humors, are eased if they vomit them up: So if sinners and evil doers do Confess their sins to God, they shall find ease in their souls and consciences.

Proud Persecutors, which think that without God's leave, they may deal as they list with Christians.

LIke as King Kantus, sometime King of this Realm, standing by the water side aftet a great rain, and marking how the water did rise, which by leisure so increased, that it wet his feet where he stood, and he being so proud in heart, thought that whatsoever he said, everything would obey; straight commanded the water that • t should arise no further, nor wet his masters feet anymore: but when he saw that the water rose still, and would not obey him, but ran into his shoes, he perceived his foolishness, and confessed there was a God and • King above him, whom only the waters would obey: Even so all greedy Churls and covetous Cormorants • hall well perceive, (when they have wrought themselves weary, and gotten little) that all increase comes from the • ord, and not of themselves. Psal. 75.6.7. & 127.1, 2. • ro. 10.22. Luk. 5.5.6.

Christ a most wholesome medicine and and salve to all poor sinners.

1 AS the brazen Serpent was eleuated and lifted up in the Desert by Moses, for to heal all those that did look upon it: So it was necessary that our Savior Jesus Christ (as he himself doth witness) should be hanged upon the Cross, and lifted up on high, for to heal all those that be deadly stung and wounded by the old Serpent the devil. Nomb. 21.8. John. 3.14. & 12.31, 32, 33.

2 As the brazen Serpent had the figure, form, and shape of a Serpent, and yet it was no Serpent, no nor yet had any venom or poison: So our Savior Christ did take upon him the shape of a sinner, and yet he was no sinner, but was and is a most wholesome medicine and sovereign salve unto all poor sinners, that do behold and look upon him by faith, and that seek for salvation nowhere else, but in the only merits of his death and passion. Heb. 4.15.

3 As there was no Physic, Medicine, or Salue, that could heal those that were stung of the fiery Serpents, but only the looking upon the brazē Serpent that was erected and set up by the commandment of God: Even so have we no manner of Physic or salve against sin, and everlasting death, or any other object or mark set before the eyes of our faith to behold, for to bring soul, health, and salvation unto us, but only Jesus Christ, being crucified, who is given unto us of God. For it doth not belong unto us to choose the medicine or salve, but it pertaineth to God our sovereign Physician, who alone is able to heal us from this deadly sickness, who also alone knoweth what medicine or salve is necessary for us.

4 And as it is not in our power to find the medicine of salvation: so can we not of our selves find the manner and means how to use and apply the same: For as in the sickness of the body, the sick person when he is past all hope of health, and utterly dispayred, that it is needful for the skillful Physician, not only to find and prepare the medicine, but also dispose the sick person, so as he will and may use this medicine, and that he may understand rightly how to use and apply it: So the sickness of the soul, which is most precious above all things, and in the which mankind is not only ignorant, but also enemies of their own salvation, then we must understand by our Savior Christ the Physician of the soul, what is the medicine, and then after what manner it must be used; yea and in such wise, that the same our Physician Christ Jesus, do prepare and make us apt and meet, that we both will and can use these remedies, which he hath prepared and appointed for us, or else it will be no profit, nor stand us in any stead.

Christ our second husband by faith.

LIke as if a woman be discharged from her first Husband being dead, and hath married another man, the first Husband hath no power over her: Even so we now being espoused unto Christ our second Husband by faith, are freed utterly from our first husband the Law, and (as the Apostle saith) are no more under the Law, but under grace; that is, under perpetual remission of sins; committed not only before our Justification, but as well also after, and during all our life long.

Christ our spiritual food.

AS verily as bread doth serve for the nourishing and strength of the body, & wine for the comfort thereof: So and as certainly to the inward mā, in Faith Christ is bread to the soul, and wine to the mind, & we mystically made one in him, and he in us, feed on him, and he our spiritual food.

The last Commandment explained.

1 AS the Lord by the former Commandments of the second Table, doth utterly condemn and forbid all wicked deeds, words, and counsels, that be hurtful to our neighbor, and which go with deliberation and consent, with all full purposes and conclusions to evil: Even so in the last Commandment, to the end that he might touch us the nearer, whereby we might the better perceive our own imperfections and weakness, he most straightly chargeth that our hearts should be so pure and clean, that no evil thoughts, motions, desires, concupiscences, lusts, delights, inclinations, or natural infections of original sin, should once creep into our hearts. Gene. 6.5. Math. 5.28. Rom. 6.12. & 7.7. I am. 1.14.

2 Like as if a woman were by unlawful act defiled, it were not simple fornication, but adultrie, though the defiler knew not that she was married: So we must judge also of lust and concupiscence, when one is coveted, not as though she were married, but as one unmarried, and free in respect of a married woman; whosoever coveteth her, coveteth his neighbors wife, whether he do it wittingly, or ignorantly: as Pharaoh and Abimelech did. Gene. 12.15. &c. & 20.2, 3. &c.

3 Like as that man is desperate of his salvation, and provoketh the anger of God towards him, that saith: If I shall be culpable in the sight of God for the concupiscence of my heart, as well as though I do commit the fact, therefore I will add unto my lust and concupiscence, the fact which it desireth, that I may carry away some pleasure of my sin, and not be damned for nothing: So likewise it is the part of a faithful Christian man, to acknowledge and bewail the sin and uncleanness of his heart, to lament for it, and to fly unto the mercy of God, by faith in Christ our Savior; and to withstand with all his power, the naughty desires and motions of the heart, that so he may (for Christ his sake) be made partaker of the grace of God, and true health and salvation.

4 As in this Commandment is forbidden all evil desires: So also by the same, is commanded all good desires, good affections, good inclinations to godly things, and the perfect obedience of our hearts, unto God's will, and to wish and desire that our neighbor may quietly possess and enjoy all that which God hath sent him, be it more or less.

5 As the Lord by the former Commandments, doth command that the rule of Charity should govern our willes, studies, and works: So he now commandeth the conceptions of our mind, to be directed to the same rule, that there be none of them crooked, and writhen, that may provoke our mind another way.

6 As he hath forbidden our mind to be bowed, and led into wrath, hatred, fornication, robbery, and lying: so he doth now forbid us to be moved thereunto, by any lust or desire.

7 Like as a man purposing to destroy a tree, yet doth no more then loppe and shred off certain boughs and twigges, leaving the stump and root behind, deceiveth himself: Even so likewise, so long as lust and concupiscence doth live in men, they may well seem in the eyes of men, to be very great converts, if of ignorant idiots they are become such as have gotten some skil and knowledge: or as if of dunkards, ruffians, adulterers, and such like, they become sober and modest, and of good behavior; as this may be done before men, and yet the heart nothing altered before God: for there be many causes which may move men to seem outwardly to be godly, when the heart within is fraught and laden with loathsome lusts, & full of rotten corruptions, which make them still altogether abhominable before God, and thus they have hereby gained nothing.

8 As the Lord our God requireth account of every idle word: Math. 12.36: So likewise requireth he tribute and account of wicked lusts and thoughts, arrayneth them, maketh them hold up their hand at the bar, keepeth a court for them, and setteth fines and amerciments upon the heads of them.

Pope no Christian.

1 LIke as Judas bare the name of a Desciple and Apostle, and called Christ master, when, and at such time, as he endeavored altogether to spoil Christ, both of his authority and life: Even so the Pope and all his confederates, although they boast themselves to be Christians, pretending the name of Christ, yet they both rob Christ of his authority, and also men of their salvation.

2 As the Lord's who made the last rebellion in the North, charged the inferior sort in the Queens Majesty's name, to put on Armor, and to come into the field, as though it had been in defense of her Majesty, whereas their purpose was the destruction of her royal estate, and the subversion of her Kingdom, that they themselves might have reigned: Even so in like manner dealeth the Pope & his affinity, concerning Christ & his Kingdom.

Corrupters of Princes are most severely to be punished.

1 LIke as they do most grievously offend, which do infect with poison a common well or conduite, where all men do draw water: So likewise they deserve worst of a Common-wealth, which corrupt the mind of a Prince with pernicious and wicked counsels.

2 As he ought to suffer the greater punishment, which throweth poison, not into one Cup, but into the whole vessel, whereof everyone should drink: So offend they the most, and are therefore with all extremity to be tormented, which do corrupt the nature and disposition of Princes.

Comforts for the afflicted.

1 LIke as a Father having a young Infant sick of some sore disease, though the child can speak never a word, is ready to help it: and if it can speak, yet being full of pain, cannot call for things as it ought, yet if the mother can but by any signs guess at the meaning of it, she will accept as much of it, as if it had spoken very plentifully: yea though it should say one thing, & mean another, she would give it according to the meaning of it: Even so the Lord that is filled with the bowels of compassion towards us in Christ, far above any father or mother, though he delighteth to hear us pray unto him, yet when as by the extremity of our miseries, we are oppressed or distracted, so that we cannot in any orderly manner pray unto him as we ought, he alloweth of the sighs and sobbes that we offer up unto him, and granteth not so much our words (which are none or few) as the meaning of his spirit, which is plentiful in us. Psal. 103.8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14. Rom. 8.26. 2. Cor. 1.3, 4, 5. Isa. 38.14.

2 Like as if one in a burning Feauer should in the midst of his sit ask cold water, and his friend the Physician should instead of that, give him a wholesome medicine, should in denying that particular thing demanded, grant unto his general meaning, which was, that he might have that which might do him most good, though now being distempered, he was not able to judge of it, but did take one thing for another: So whatsoever we ask in our distress, our meaning must needs be, if it be ruled by God's spirit, that we would have that which might procure our best good: therefore if the Lord turn our crosses to our good, though we prayed for the clean taking away of them, he fulfilleth both these promises at once. Rom. 8.28. 2. Cor. 12.8, 9.

3 Like as if the Physician through his skill, can cure a man by taking away his blood and humors, by cutting and searing his flesh, which of themselves are hurtful: if he can by art so temper that which is poison (as the vipers flesh) temper it with other wholesome things, and correct it with those that be cordial, that of it, he will make a sovereign Treacle, even that which shall expel poison, and so make that which could cause death, to be a preserver of life: Even so, shall not the Lord by his infinite wisdom, and almighty power, who bringeth light out of darkness, and good out of evil, and calleth the things that be not, as though they were; shall not he be much more able by the most grievous crosses that can befall us, work the greatest good for us that may be: so that when we would hope for good by our afflictions, and so be comforted in them, we are not so much to look to the things themselves, how they are like to work upon us; as the promise which the Lord hath made unto us concerning this matter, and so to be sure that the Lord himself will work our good hereby, because he hath said it?

4 As it is all one if the fearful Patient should have not one, but a whole company of Physicians saying unto him, that undoubtedly this medicine is like to do you good, we know the working of it well, and have had great experience of it in many, you need not to fear it, take it upon our credit; this would much move him: So no doubt this should correct the too much fear that is in us, of being hurt by the cross, that we hear so many excellent and famous men very skillful therein, to speak so boldly unto us of the benefit of it: Even those whom wear most ready to believe in all other things, why then should we not do so in this?

5 As the Mother by some unpleasant thing, weaneth the child from the breast, upon which it would otherwise always linger to the hurt of it, now when stronger meat is more fit for it: Even so the Lord weaneth us by affliction from the love of this world, and thus turneth it unto our good.

6 As the fire doth not hurt the Gold, in consuming the dross, and the file in taking away the rust: and the purgation in expelling ill humors: So afflictions causing us to abhor and leave some sin or other, which if we continued in, would destroy us; may truly be said to work our good.

7 As Physic serveth not only to cure us of the diseases we are fallen into, but to preserve us from them in some tolerable health: Even so the cross both recovereth us out of sin, when we are fallen into it, and preventeth many, that otherwise might creep upon us.

8 As some sickly bodies are driven to diet themselves, and are in continual Physic to prevent that which their corrupt estate would otherwise necessarily pull upon them: So likewise some are always, or the greatest part of their lives, in the diet of affliction, not so much to bring them from gross and grievous sins, which they are not yet fallen into, as to keep them from falling, which the Lord knoweth they are ready to do, in respect of their ages, callings, and places that they live in.

9. As untamed Heyfers, which are kept from straying out of their pastures, with hedges and ditches: Even so the Lord puts thorns and briars in our ways, as Hosea saith, 2.6. that is, layeth affliction upon us, and so as it it were, stoppeth the way that we might not break forth by disobedience to our hurt. Psal. 119.67.71.

10 As a father spareth not the rod, till his child be thereby humbled, to the confession and amendment of his fault, because his purpose is to do him good, when as notwithstanding, he letteth his servant go, when he seeth that he will not profit by words, or a few stripes, as not caring for him: So the Lord when he spareth the wicked in their sins, and reserveth them to further judgment, correcting his own children, again and again, showeth that his purpose is to do him good.

11 As a wise and careful Physician, who purposing not so much to give Physic unto his sick Patient, as to cure him thereby, if the first medicine will do it, there he leaves him; if not, he applieth one medicine after another, because he hath a diligent care of him: and if at any time he maketh intermission, it is because the Patients weakness, whom he would by that means to gather some strength, not that he meaneth to leave him: Even so the Lord purposing according to his word, by affliction to do us good, when by the first cross we profit not as we ought, then either he letteth it lie the longer upon us, or removing it, sendeth another instead of it, though not presently, because we could not bear it, yet afterwards, when it seemeth best unto him.

12 Like as when a man's body is so distempered, and some member so putrefied, then it is best for him to have his blood taken away from him, to be lanced and seared, yea to have a part cut off: Even so when any affliction or calamity doth befall us, let us not be discontented therewith, or be impatient, but submitting our judgments and wills, to the judgment and will of God, let us quietly endure, seeing the Lord giveth us that, not which we fondly desire as the best, but which he knoweth to be, and is indeed the best.

13 As the sick Patient cannot as he is man, but feel the lancing and searing of his flesh, and so complain of it with great grief, yea cry out for the extremity of pain, though he knoweth it to be best for him then, and therefore doth after a sort most willingly suffer it: Even so some are so full of complaints in their afflictions, because they are not persuaded at that time, that the very thing is sent for their most special good, and therefore such are to meditate upon this heretofore set down, concerning this matter.

14 As in worldly matters we will bear many things at the hands of them whom we love, as the child at the mother, the husband at the wife; & one friend at another: Even so, how much more ought we to bear all things at the hands of God, whom we know so loveth us in Christ, and therefore we ought so to love him again, & no doubt would bear, if there were that love in us which ought to be.

15 Like as when the child hath offended his father, he • hold say to his servant in his anger; Take him out of my sight and punish him, it would be more grievous then if he should take correction of him himself: Even so it may minister unto us some comfort, that in afflictions we know that we are under our Fathers hand, and that he hath not delivered us unto any other to be tormented. Rom. 8.29. Psal. 66.10.

16 As in a family great is the privilege of the eldest brother, and none must look to go beyond him, nay everyone cannot be like unto him; and if any might come to as great an inheritance as he, by doing those things which he did before them, they might not refuse the condition, unless they would prefer themselves before him: So likewise seeing it hath pleased the Lord to consecrate the Prince of our peace through affliction: Heb. 2.10. and he came unto glory no other way then this, we must think it good for us to go the same way, that we might be like unto him, and so by our practice, show that we acknowledge him to be the Prince of our peace, and our eldest brother.

17 Even as he is the chief and principal in the Common-wealth, in the Church, in a private family, and in any place, that all desire to be like unto: So when we are contented to be like unto Christ in anything, even in the Cross, then shall we declare that we hold him to be the chief and principal; and as it is said, The first begotten among many brethren.

18 Howsoever there is great difference between the head and the rest of the members, yet there is a certain conformity between the members of the same body, and the head, and all of them are inferior unto it: Even so, howsoever there is no comparison betwixt Christ and us, yet we must be like him in this, that we must not be above him; and therefore not to refuse any condition tha • he hath undergone before, unless we would preposteriously prefer our selves the members, before him our head: which were to darken the glory of him that is the first borne; and to stain the honor of him, that is the Prince of our peace.

19 As it were a disorder if the subjects would refuse to do that which the Prince had done before; or if the younger brethren should think much to be brought up that way that the heir hath been before: Even so when we shall refuse to bear the cross which our Savior Christ by the appointment of his father, hath borne in greater measure then we shall, or can; it is nothing else but to lift up our selves above him, and to say that we will not be conformable unto him, as to our Prince, or eldest brother.