A Treasury of Similes

Curious Questions to be avoided.

1 AS it is sufficient for one that would be heated or warmed by the fire, that he stand near it, for if he put his hand into it, he shall surely be burned: So they that presume to dispute and Question about God, about hell, &c. further then the word revealeth, falleth into blasphemy, and so into hell fire.

2 As a boisterous noise, or hideous sound, grieveth the hearing; over abundance of meat, noyeth the stomach; grievous burdens be wearisome to the bearer; continual rain hurteth the earth; and overmuch of anything, is noisome and hurthfull: So do difficult Questions, quickly overcharge weak and mean wits.

Rashness to be eschued, especially of the godly.

1 AS he that is soonest wearied, that knoweth not how far his journey is: So worketh he, and goeth about his business, with tediousness, till repentance overtaketh him, who well knoweth not the estate and manner thereof before.

2 As the enemy lying near the Walls, is the cause why the City doth watch, and take diligent heed: So when your enemy diligently wait and mark you, then will you do nothing Rash or void of reason.

Resurrection of all at the latter day.

1 LIke as at the last day, the bodies of the righteous and faithful, shall rise again unto immortality, glory, and honor; the greatness whereof, the eye hath not seen, nor the ear heard, nor the heart of man conceived: So the unrighteous and reprobate, shall rise again with their very bodies, unto everlasting shame; and both body & soul shall go into hell, with the devil and his Angels, there to abide everlastingly. Isaiah. 66.24. Mark. 9.44. Math. 25.30.46. John. 5.28, 29. Act. 24.15. 2. Cor. 5.10. Dan. 12.3. Reve. 20.13. 2. Pet. 2.4, 5, 6.

2 Like as the ungodly in this word, have with their bodies taken their own pleasure, joy, and delight: Even so in the life to come, they shall be plagued and punished with everlasting pain and torments; in the same bodies.

3 Like as when we see seed sown, to putrefy and corrupt, we are yet in good hope, that it will spring up again with fruit; for unless it be dissolved, it cannot rise again: So in like manner we must hope of our own bodies, being buried, when we see their corruption, yet we must then be most certainly persuaded, that they shall rise again; for death doth not so much waste the body, as the corruption of it. Act. 16.8. 1. Cor. 15.1, 2, 3, 4. &c. John. 5.28. & 11.24. Act. 24.15.

Repentance.

1 LIke as if a Noble man, or Gentleman's servant, were (for committing of treasony, fellony, or murder) condemned, and going to the place of execution, & his Lord or Master, of mere favor and good will, should not only by suit to her Majesty, procure a pardon for his life, and so deliver him from that villainous death, which for his deserts he had worthily deserved; but also should adopt and take him for his Son & heir; should this fellow after this his deliverance, go and say, I will now be idle & take my pleasure, and follow mine own fantasy, and never endeavor to please or pleasure my Lord or master; but rather I will seek to hurt & displease him every way that I can? What shall we say in this case? Be not these most wicked and desperate words? And doth not such a fellow deserve most grievous punishments. Even so, the like say they, who either by word or deed say; that Christ hath redeemed us, & by his death hath purchased for us forgiveness of sins, righteousness, and so delivered us from hell, and made us the Sons of God, and heirs of heaven; wherefore we will stand like idle persons, or rather do more wickedness, and live as we list, &c. Christ our Savior doubtless died not for such, nor satisfied for their offenses, no nor yet merited heaven for them, to the end that they should spend their days in Idleness, and heap sin upon sin, and become altogether wicked; but that they seeing his great love, and how greatly sin displeased him, seeing he was willing to redeem them from sin, Satan, death and hell, should no more commit sin, but love, honor, and obey him, thank him, put their trust in him, and work virtuous and good works plenteously, not as bond servants, to escape hell; for so much as Christ hath delivered them, neither yet thereby to win heaven, which he by his passion hath purchased for them, but as natural Sons, for the glory of God, moved thereto, by motion of the holy Ghost, and by faith and love. For godly Christians do undoubtedly fear to sin, so much more then the wicked doth, by how much more they know that God doth in this present life, punish his legitimate children, more then bastards. Rom. 6.4. Gal. 5.14.2. Timo. 2.19. Tit. 2.11. &c. Luk. 1.75. Eph. 1.4. & 2.10. 1. Pet. 1.15. 1. Pet. 4.17, 18. Jer. 25.12. Jonah. 1.12.

2 As for examble, like as if an Astrologer, should tell an ambitious Cardinal that he should be Pope, although he did put an undoubted trust therein; yet for all that, he would not be idle, but would use all means possible to attain, and come to that dignity: Even so the children of God, the surer they are, that Christ hath redeemed them, so much the more they understand the great good will of God towards them; and therefore they are always forced more and more by Repentance, and godly conversation of life, to make certain unto themselves the knowledge of their election, and redemption in Christ. 2. Pet. 1.10.

3 Like as the fire without heat or warmth, is no true fire: So is it a clear matter, that faith without Repentance, is no true faith. Luk. 19.8. & 23.40, 41, 42. Act. 2.37 & 19.18, 19.

4 As it is the nature of some cloth, if it be stained when it is wet, the stain will seem to be easily washed out, but being dry, it will appear again: Even so some men think that they have Repented, when they have done it to halfs; and therefore they are to repent again; as those that break out of prison, are brought thither again. Psal. 51.2.

5 As bleaching and whiting weareth the clothe: So a man must be worn before he can be clean washed by true Repentance.

6 Like as in an assurance or evidence, a man may leave out such words as be effectual in the conveyance, to their great prejudice: Even so, sure it is, that many things in Repentance, may be found out to a man's hindrance, which were forgotten at the first. Ezra. 10.2. &c.

7 As it is the nature of the children of God, in the reading of the Scriptures to take all with them, not a piece only, but as well that which humbleth them, as that which lifteth up: Even so it is the part of them which will repent truly, not to play the Mice and Rats to nible a little, so much as maketh for them, but to take all, and not to leave out that which maketh against them.

8 Like as a man that is strayed far out of his way, must turn quite back again the contrary way: So those that have strayed from the ways of godliness, to the way of sin, must by unfeigned Repentance, turn quite back again into the right way.

9 As it makes a glad Father, and delights him to have a child like himself, especially both in place and liniaments of body: Even so more glad is God, when one is spiritually borne, and showeth himself like unto God in all his actions, by unfeigned Repentance.

10 As dead men in their graves, although they be helped never so much, cannot rise from thence: Even so men that are weak, but dead in trespasses and sins, can do nothing that may further their Repentance, or conversion, though they be helped never so. 2. Timo. 2.15.

11 Like as if a man build a house, which doth cost him much labor, and great charges, and not having laid a sure foundation, when a tempest cometh, his house doth fall; then will he be very sorry, and repent that he hath so unadvisedly bestowed his money and labor: Notwithstanding, for all this his great sorrow and Kepentance, yet it cannot set up his house again which is fallen, but only it taketh occasion by the ruin of the house, to teach the owner more wit against another time, that when he buildeth again he may make a sure foundation: Even so, though thou Repent never so much, yet that cannot get remission for thy sins that are past, but that must be pardoned only by the faith of Christ's blood, nevertheless it doth teach thee wit, and learneth thee to tame thy body, and subdue it, and to cast a low foundation, that in time to come, thou mayest the better resist the assaults of the devil, the world and the flesh.

12 As the Angels in heaven do rejoice over man, when he repenteth: So the devil is thoroughly imbrued, with highest delights, and (as it were) with most pleasant pleasures, when he seeth men, (specially those which have given their names unto Christ) to live without Repentance.

Regeneration necessary in all men.

AS trees growing on the top of hills, have a rough bark, crooked knots, long bows, and therefore unmeet for any building, until they be cut down, pilled, squared, drawn home, and yet can do nothing of all those themselves: So we likewise as long as we he wandering in the mountains, and wild woods of this world, being highly minded, and in great wealth and authority above others, as on an hill, we by nature have froward and proud minds, and not meet for God's house, until we be made lowly in our own sights, and fall flat down at Christ's feet, and have the rough bark of our old Adam pulled off, and our crooked affections out away, be mortified, and drawn home, by the preaching of his word, and working of his holy spirit. Agge. 1.8. 2. Cor. 3.5. John. 6.44.

Recreation.

AS the Land which is sown every other year, for the rest in the one year, is more fertile in the other: So quick wits, and daily studies, do sometimes desire Recreation and rest, wherewith they be much refreshed again.

Regenerate man falleth not f •• atly.

1 AS a man in traveling from Barwicke to London, it may be that now and then he doth go sometimes amiss and out of his way, but he speedily returns to the way again, and his course generally shall be upright: Even so it is the property of the Regenerate man, to walk according to the spirit, which is not now and then to make a step forward, for to keep his ordinary course in the way of godliness. Rom. 8.1. 1. John. 5.19.

2 As it is the practice of a sick man, who having recovered of some grievous sickness, walks a turn or two about his chamber, saying; Ah, I would fain walk up and down, but I cannot; meaning, not that he cannot walk as he would, being soon wearied through faintness: Or as a Soldier, that with a blow hath his brain pan cracked, so as be lies groveling, astonished not able to fight: Or like him that hath a fit of the falling sickness, who for a time lies like a dead man: Even so the Regenerate man, although the flesh for a time vanquisheth and subdueth the spirit, not only in thoughts, in inward motions, and in some particular offenses; but also in the general practice of this duty or calling, and through the whole course of this life▪ Yet the spirit prevails in the ende, and getteth the maisterie. Rom. 7.15. &c.

3 Like as a prisoner, that is gotten forth of the Gaile, and that he might escape the hand of the keeper, desires, and strives with all his heart, to run an hundredth miles in a day, but because he hath straight and weighty Boltes on his legs, cannot for his life creep past a mile or twain, and that with chasing his flesh, and tormenting himself: Even so a Regenerate man, and the servants of God, do heartily desire, and endeavor to obey God in all his commandments; as it is said of King Josiah, That he turned to God with all his heart, with all his soul, with all his might, according to all the laws of Moses, &c. Yet because they are clogged with the boltes of the flesh, they perform obedience both slowly and weakly, with diverse slips and falls. 2. King. 23.25.

Reformation.

AS Elecampane being green, hath in it a superfluous moisture, which must he first consumed before it be occupied about the body: So many men have in their superfluity of evil, which must be first Reformed, before they be employed to matters of the Church.

Regeneration increase by degrees.

1 AS seed cast into the earth, doth not by and by sprout, increase and come to perfection, but by space and length of time, it attaineth to his perfection and ripeness, in that season, that God hath appointed: As a tree likewise is not perfect as soon as it is planted: Nor an infant is not straight-ways upon the sudden, as soon as it is conceived in the womb of his Mother, become a man, but with time: Even so we are not all at the first dash Regenerated; but this Regeneration riseth by degrees, and being once begun, then it proceedeth fair and softly, and by little and little increasing every day, till we come to everlasting life in the heavens.

2 Even as that beggar, which hath but a patched or an ouerworne robe, had ever need to be careful in peecing and mending the same; least otherwise his nakedness appear unto all: So surely this Regeneration or righteousness of ours, being in respect of our selves, but a torn and tottered robe, we had need every hour to labor and exercise our selves in the repairing thereof, least our filthiness break forth; and even to sigh and to groan, until we be with our house, which is from heaven. 2. Cor. 5.3. Reve. 3.18. & 16.15.

Righteousness not in us.

1 AS an evil tree cannot bring forth any good fruit, nor a rotten or worm-eaten seed, can engender anything, but like it self: So we, for so much as our thoughts, our affections, our words, our actions, and generally, our whole life and nature being examined, it shall be found that in us there is nothing but vanity, and the very matter of death and damnation; and that we neither do, nor can do anything, that may be able to abide the Righteous examination of the justice of God, but only to fly to him for mercy. Math. 7.17, 18. &. 12.33. Psal. 51.7. & 53.2, 3. Ose. 2.3. Luk. 15.18. & 18.13, 14. Rom. 3.10, 11, 12.

2 As they that are sick of the Dropsy, who by reason of the grosenesse of their bodies, seem to be in good estate; notwithstanding they be full of nothing, but water and evil humors, which in the end are the cause of death: Even so such as are arrogant, & presumptuous, and puffed up with a vain conceit of their own Righteousness, though they be in great credit & reputation in the world, yet before God their state is miserable, and abhominable. Luk. 16.15.

3 As Merchants, who praise and esteem their wares and merchandise, more then they are worth; and as old Images new gilded over, which outwardly hath some glistering, and show, but within are nothing but dust and dirt; or as counterfeit money, which is naught, how goodly a print so ever it hath: Even so all our Righteousness, virtues, and good works, when they shall be examined and prised by those which know them, as by the spirit of God and his word, they are altogether judged, as old rags, torn, tied together, and patched up again. Esa. 64.6. Dan. 9.5. &c. Phil. 3.8.

4 Like as if a man would boast of his strength & health, and yet were subject to a thousand diseases: Or of his knowledge, and yet were ignorant of all good learning: Or of his riches, and yet were indebted, and endaungered to the whole world; would not one mock him as an Idiote and a fool? Even so we, as well show our ignorance, and what slender understanding we have, when we will attribute any Righteousness to our selves, and boast our selves in it, be it never so little. Jer. 9.23.

5 As the basest Gold, though it be rayed with some dirt, is always more precious then the brightest Copper or Lead that a man can find. Even so the Righteousness of a Christian man, though it be defiled through many infirmities, and imperfections; yet notwithstanding is more to be esteemed, then all the Righteousness of hypocrites and Infidels.

6 As there is no man so hard to be healed, as he that thinketh himself to be hoale: For as much as he always refuseth counsel of the Physician, and will take no remedies, nor keep any good diet, or government of himself, which should be meet and healthful for him: Even so likewiset, here is no man farther off from the Righteousness of God, then he that hath some opinion of himself. For such commonly are obstinate, and cannot without great difficulty, be brought from the persuasion, which they have conceived of their own Righteousness.

7 As new Wine, with the strength of the working thereof, will break old Bouels, so that if it should be put into them, it should be but spilled and lost: Even so they who have placed Righteousness in the outward exercises of Religion, cannot savor, taste, or receive the doctrine of Righteousness, by faith only in Christ. Math. 9.17.

The Righteousness of Jesus Christ, which is one only, may be distributed to all the faithful.

1 AS the soul of man, is wholly throughout the whole body, and every part alike: Even so is the Righteousness of Jesus Christ, wholly in the body of the whole Church, as the soul to give it life, and to mantaine it: So that it is altogether in every of the particular members, to make them strong, whole, stout, and of courage to do all their Offices and duties: Or as the voice of a man, which being heard of a great many persons, is in such sort received of everyone of thē, (provided that they be attentive) that the same is wholly understood, without being divided or sundered in any respect. And as the face of a man, may be received in many Glasses, and wholly represented to all, without any division or separation of the same.

2 As an old rotten tattered garment, cannot be comely, peeced with new, whole, and sound clothe: Even so they that plant and place their Righteousness in fasting and other external exercises, cannot admit that Righteousness that cometh only and wholly by Christ. Math. 9.16.

3 As the Israelites were forbidden to clothe themselves with Linnen and Wollen, made in one garment: So likewise must all true Christians at this day, put upon them the Righteousness of Christ Jesus only, not mingling it with their own merits. Deut. 22.11.

4 As the Sun, when he riseth, obscureth and darkeneth the light of the skies, & dismisseth & scattereth them: Even so the Righteousness of faith, which for Christ his sake is imputed unto us, doth vanquish the darkness, and as it were driveth away the night of the glory of men's works.

5 As the sin of Adam was the cause of condemnation unto eternal death: So in like manner the Righteousness of Christ, is the cause of justification unto eternal life. Rom. 8.1, 2.

Religion.

LIke as in labor or work, he that begun last, ought with the more diligence to redress his slackness, and recompense his late coming: So he which lately began to profess and embrace Religion, virtue, or godliness, ought with the more feruentnesse and zeal, to endeavor to attain the same.

Reading of Books.

1 AS they which be thirsty, first do drink, and at leisure do behold the fashion of the cup, if it be engraven, or be marked: So ought we first to Read things that be most profitable; then if leisure will serve us, we may note and consider things elegant and trim.

2 As it is more profitable, oft to dung the ground, then much, and that at one time: So is it more for one utility, to Read with moderatnesse daily, then at one time, and that greedily.

3 As a drop of water pierceth a stone, not so much by his only strength, as by his often falling: Even so a man shall become wise and learned, not so much by his force, and by himself only, as by his diligent & often Reading.

Riches.

1 AS it is the use to cut the wings of Birds, least they should fly far, or away: So must Riches be take • from some away, as from children, and others, least they should exalt themselves over much in hautinesse.

2 As the golden bridle, maketh the Horse neither stronger nor swifter: So Riches, and costly apparel, do nothing advance a man in virtue, learning and godliness.

3 Like as we beholding a Rich man and a poor man Painted on a wall, do neither enjoy the one, nor despise the other, and why? Because they be but shadows of the substances: Even so our minds must never be troubled, either for Riches, poverty, glory, or ignominy, because they be more fickle and deceitful, then any shadow.

4 As Oil kindleth the fire, which it seems to quench: Even so Riches come, as though they would make a man contented, and make him more covetous. 1. Timo. 6.6.

5 Like as drink doth not quench the thirst of him; that hath the Dropsy, but maketh him the more thirsty: So likewise, although Riches be good to withstand need and poverty, yet they oftentimes, cause men to be miserable, & ever needy; and they that for the most part have abundance of goods and Riches, do covet and greedily desire to have more, and so show themselves to be very needy.

6 Like as they be in great danger of a woe, and curse, which do not give of their own Riches to those that have need: Even so, in much more danger be they, that take from the needy, that which they did possess. Habac. 2.9.

7 And if they shall go to Hell, that have not clothed the naked: Even so, much less shall they escape Hell, that by oppression, and unmerciful dealing, have caused them to go naked, that were clothed. Math. 25.41, 42.43.

8 As he that walketh in the Sun, careth not whether the Moon shine or no, because he hath no need of her light: Even so when a man hath found the heavenly Riches, he careth not for earthly Riches. Psal. 37.16. 1. Timo. 6.6.

9 As the mad-man desireth nothing so much as to get water, by reason of his excessive distemperature; yet is there nothing that so much tormenteth him; for the only sight thereof, is able to cast him into his fit: Even so is it with Riches, every man longeth for them, yet are they the only things that increase his longing, trouble his mind, and replenish his heart with passions. Mar. 10.23, 24, 25.

10 As those things which agree not with our nature, and have no proportion with it, as fire, sulphur, and such other things, if we should eat them, would not only not profit us, but would also hurt and kill us: So the deceitful Riches of this world, too much desired and sought for; the pomp of honor, vain glory, and such like; after the which very many do run too too earnestly, do not only not nourish the souls of men to eternal life, nor mitigate and appease the wicked lusts of the same, but also do bring upon them everlasting woe, with utter and endless destruction.

11 As he that walketh in the rain, shall hardly escape wetting; or he that travaileth in the whole Sun, eschew heat; So is it almost impossible for a Rich man to avoid vice and corruption by his riches. Psal. 62.10. 1. Tim. 6.17.

12 As Bucephalus, the Horse of Alexander the great, so long as he was naked, would suffer any man to back him; but if he were once furnished with the royal Saddle, Bridle, and other furniture, he grew so proud, that no man might ride him but the King: Even so many, who in their poverty were modest, humble and virtuous, by increase of wealth, have changed their virtues into vice.

13 As those mountains that contain mynes of Gold and Silver, are otherwise barren: So they that have Riches, and vaynes of Gold and Silver, are for the most part in their hearts, made unprofitable to the service of God and man. 1. Timo. 6.17, 18, 19.

14 As Musicall instruments, are to no use to him that cannot play upon them: So are Riches unprofitable to him, that cannot use them rightly.

15 As a Horse, is of no use without the bridle: So are Riches without reason.

16 As fair Tapistrie, covereth foul and broken walls: Even so Riches may well make a man more honorable in the sight of the world. Math. 6.19.

17 As Rivers and floods, although they be most sweet and pleasant, yet when they run, and enter into the Sea, they are most bitter; keeping their right and due course, they yield pure and wholesome water, but once mingled with the Sea, they are as it were poisoned with bitterness: Even so the wealth and Riches of this world, although in the course of this life, they do highly delight some men, which have them in possession, nevertheless, when they come to the Sea of death, whither all floods and Riches at the length shall come, they seem to be doleful, sower, bitter, intolerable, and as it were, poison it self.

18 As Riches be unto the ungodly and wicked, hindrances of virtues: So contrariwise, Riches, are to the faithful servants of God, helps & furtherances of many good things, godly actions, and very charitable works: So that Riches of themselves are not evil; for godly men do possess their Riches, be they never so ample & infinite, and are not possessed of their wealth and goods; because their Riches are drudges to them, and not they to their riches.

19 Like as Gold is tried with a touchstone: Even so is man tried by having Gold and much Riches, which most easily bewrayeth what manner of man one is.

20 As Feathers do lift up, and carry on high, the fowls and birds of the air: So Riches and dignities of this world, are wont to extol & carry men into the air and clouds of vanity.

21 Even as Corn laid up and kept in a Barn, Garner, or other place, doth not increase; yea many times is eaten, and consumed of Weuels, and other vermin, but being cast into the ground, doth bring forth plentiful fruit, and great increase, and is very profitable for the owner: So Riches, as Gold, money, & other Jewels, laid up in Chests, and kept in Coffers, are oftentimes in danger of loosing, by thieves, that may break through and steal them; or by fire that may consume them; but being dispersed and scattered among the poor & needy Saints of God, they bring forth fruit an hundredth fold; and are very profitable, both to the giver, and to the receiver; discharging a good conscience in the one, and comforting the distressed body and mind of the other.

22 As pits and lakes of spring water, being stopped and polluted with mire, mud, or other foul & filthy matter, if they be scoured and drawn out, will flow with water that is pleasant, sweet, and wholesome, but suffered & let alone, are corrupted, and do stink: So Riches & worldly substance, if they be distributed unto the poor, & translated from them that have too much, to those that are needle; and having nothing, they do greatly increase and multiply; for a very little, is great Riches to him that hath nothing; and to him that did bestow them, they are instruments, and means of God's blessing; but being Coffered, and lying still, so that the poor needy creatures are not relieved with them, they are unprofitable; and will breed the stench of hell, and endless woe, to those that so do keep them. Psal. 41.1. & 112.9.

23 As the Licoure in the pot, profiteth not to it self, but them that draw and drink thereof: So worldly goods and Riches, oft profiteth not the keeper and owner thereof, but other that come after.

24 As they that are swollen with the Dropsy, who a far off seem fat, and to be in good liking, by reason of the abundance of the humors in their bodies, though that for this cause they be soar and dangerously diseased: So do we judge by the outward appearance, that Riches are very pleasant, and such as love and have them, very happy; though that for the most part, there be nothing more vile and filthy in their houses, then themselves.

25 Even as a Gold ring, doth not so soon touch a goutie or diseased finger, but that presently it causeth great & intolerable grief: So likewise Riches, honors, pleasures & profit of this world, do nothing else but molest & trouble our minds, either with ambition or covetousness.

26 As an Ape or Munket, is tied and tethered to his clog: So likewise Riches of themselves, do encumber and entangle men's minds.

Reason.

AS if the Sun were not, all our life should be led in night and darkness: So if Reason were not, all our other senses were no better then brute beasts.

Repentance requireth confession.

1 AS the beginning of health, is the feeling and perceiving of the sickness: So the beginning of Repentance, is to acknowledge the offense.

2 As they are most hardly healed, which in their sickness be void of all reason: So hard it is for thē to repent & amend, who will not acknowledge their own sin and wickedness.

3 Like as when a man is sick, the fist step to health, is to know his disease: Even so to true Repentance, and salvation, the first step is, to know the damnation due for our sins.

Rich men are to live godly, as well as the poor.

AS God alloweth the Rich man, nothing more to misvse, or misspend, then he doth the poor man; for as he hath the same Baptism, Faith, Lord, God, and Father in heaven with him; and hopeth for the same kingdom, that the poor man doth: Even so hath he the same Law given him to live after, and by the same shall be judged, as well as the poor.

To Relieue the poor.

1 AS he that gathereth up the Queens rents, if he bestow them not in that good manner that he is appointed, but wasteth & spendeth them ryotously howsoever, shall be sure to suffer due punishment for his so doing: Even so likewise, he to whom God hath given riches and great wealth, for the relief of his poor brethren, if he neglect them, and spend his goods lasciuiously, on his back or belly, or other ways, God will punish him most severely, at the day of his account. Luk. 16.1, 2, &c.

2 As the clouds that are full, pour out rain: Even so the rich that have abundance, ought to distribute.

Reading of the Word.

1 LIke as the busy Be, when as she flieth into some fair and pleasant Garden, and lighteth sometimes here, and sometimes there, as it falleth out, sucketh out some sweetness out of every flower and herb, whereon she sitteth: Even so a Christian, looking into the volume of the sacred scriptures, and reading sometimes this parcel thereof, sometimes that, shall receive by every book therein, some comfort and profit; as will cause him to prefer the same, before the honey, and the honey comb. 1. Timo. 4.13, 14.15, 16. Psal. 19.8, 9, 10, & 119.72, 103, 104.

2 As the use of meats is not sufficient to the nourishment of man's body, except they be dressed and prepared: Even so the hearing of the word of God read, is not sufficient to bring men to sound knowledge, and salvation, except the same be preached, and rightly divided. Amos 8. 11.

Reprobate and ungodly men, often in greatest prosperity.

AS the Butcher will suffer those beasts, which he appoints to be killed, to go where they list in his best pastors, and to break his hedges, that in so doing, the sooner they be fat, the sooner he may kill them: Even so the Lord lets reprobate and ungodly men (whom he loves not in his Son Christ,) take their pleasure, corrects them not for their amendment; but lets them work their just condemnation, in giving them up to their own lusts, and into a reprobate sense; as he did Pharaoh, Saul, Judas, Herod, Antiochus, Nero, &c.

Deferring of Repentance.

1 LIke as if a malefactor for his punishment, should be appointed to carry every day a stick of wood to an heap, to burn him twenty years after: Even so men, by deferring Repentance, do treasure and heap up wrath against the day of wrath. Rom. 2.4.5.

2 The longer a man goes and continues in his sickness without any Physic, the harder is the recovery: Even so, the more the time is prolonged, the harder it is to repent. For where the devil dwells long, he will hardly be removed.

3 As the case is dangerous if a man fall into the relapse of an ague, or any other strong disease, it may peradventure cost him his life, and the recovery will be very hard: Even so it is very dangerous, after Repentance for some grievous sin, to fall into the same again, and come to Kepentance the second time. John 5.14. Luk. 11.26.

Resurrection of our bodies.

1 LIke as the body of Christ, which he took in the virgins womb, was by his Almighty power, raised up again, immortal and glorious, all infirmities that it was subject unto, being clean put away, and taken off: Even so these mortal bodies of ours, even the same, that we took of the substance of our sinful and mortal mothers, shall at the day of the general resurrection of all flesh, be raised up again, according to the mighty working of the Lord, whereby he is of power to subdue all things unto himself. Esa. 66.24. Eze. 37.1. &c. Dan. 12.2. Math. 25.41. John. 5.29. John. 19.25. John. 11. 25. 1. Cor. 15.1. &c. 2. Cor. 5. 10. 1. Thess. 4. 13. &c.

2 As Swallows, Wormes, and Flies, which have lain dead in the winter season, in the spring, by virtue of the Suns heat, revive again: So likewise men fall in sounes and traunses, being for a time, without breath or show of life, and yet afterward come again, and so is the Resurrection.

Remitting of trespasses.

LIke as if we see one eat or drink a great deal, we say he was hungry, or thirsty, because we see him eat o • drink so much, or so greedily: So do we say, that one is hot, because we see him sweat; yet do we not say, 〈◊〉 his eating, or drinking, is the conditional cause, of his hunger or thirst, nor yet the sweat the cause of his heat; but contrariwise, we say, hunger, thirst, and heat, are the causes of eating, drinking and sweat: Even so the turning from iniquity, and Remitting of trespasses, are not the causes of the forgiveness of our sins, but the fruits thereof, and trial of our estate. Ezech. 18.21. Math. 6.24.

Reading of Authors.

1 EVen as amongst healthful and medicinal herbs, there springeth forth some weeds unprofitable and venomous, but the herbs meet for medicines, the wise Physician only doth gather: So in Reading of Authors, although there be some things contained, being not only unprofitable, but also wicked; yet it is the part of good students not to neglect them, but rather to collect such sentences and doctrine as may be profitable for them.

2 As dastard and cowardly Dogs, do bark at home at the skin of the wild beast, but in hunting they will not come near the same: So some student will piuishly prate of things vain and foolish, leaving the effect of learning unlabored for.

Reprobate.

1 LIke as a man upon a Racke, crieth and roreth out for very pain, yet cannot desire his tormentor to ease him of his pain: Even so the Reprobate, when he repenteth, he cannot come unto God, and seek unto him; he hath no power, no not so much as once to desire to give one little sob for the remission of his sins; if he would give all the world, he cannot so much as give one rap at God's mercy gate, that he may open to him. Math. 7.7. Gene. 4.4. 1. Sam. 31. 4. Math. 27.5.

2 Like as if a man, that having made to himself a great burden to carry, should assay it on his back, and for that it sat and lay vneasily, and pressed him much, should cast it down again, and put a great deal more unto it, and then begin to lift it again; but when he felt it more heavy then before, he should fall into a great rage, and add twice as much more to it, thereby to make it lighter: Even so do the children of this world, who finding it somewhat loathsome and unpleasant, to resist one or two vices in the beginning, do defer their conversion and Repentance, and do add twenty or forty moe unto them, thinking to find the matter more easy afterward.

3 Like as a man having tasted a good piece of Wine, making show as if he would buy it, understanding the price, and not willing to give so much, leaveth if there, without buying or drinking of it anymore: Even so the Reprobate, having tasted the heavenly good things, finding them good, and praising them exceedingly, after they understand the price, that is, that they must renounce themselves, and bear the Cross of Christ, to go to take possession of the kingdom of heaven, which hath purchased for them with his precious blood, they will none of it at this price, and so renounce these good things without drinking, or enjoying them. Hebr. 6.4.

4 As those that have their stomachs charged with evil humors, cease not to eat sometimes for all that, yea and to find taste in some good meats, but are constrained after (through the evil disposition of their stomach) to cast it up again, and to vomit: So some Reprobates, having with in them an evil conscience, may well taste the good heavenly gifts, but this evil conscience, not being able to agree with the true and sure faith of the heart, stoppeth, that these gifts take no root to fructify to salvation, so that finally they cast it off, or let it wither and come to nothing: On the contrary, those who have faith, are assured, that though the graces of the holy Ghost are often weak in them, and like fire covered with ashes, and trees in the Winter, yet can it never come to naught nor die; but rather they recover strength at the last, whereby they are certain to be, and to continue the children of God, and heirs of everlasting life.

5 As those whom God hath chosen before all times, in time he calleth, and that of purpose to Christ Jesus his Son; and whom thus he calleth, he justifieth; and that more and more, until that flesh, and the corrupt affections thereof being mortified, they attain to their glory: So by the contrary, be the Reprobate, either left altogether in blindness, never called to the light and knowledge of God's free mercy; or if they be called, they either do condemn it, or else suddenly fall from the same; and so abiding in their corruption, do still heap sin upon sin; till at the last, their measure being full, God executeth his most just judgment, against their continual rebellion.

6 Like as the assured trust of the mercy of God promised for Christ's sake, which followeth straightway the hatred of vice and sin, with full intent and purpose to live after the will of God, wh • rein so long as a man doth remain and continue, he may be sure that he is the elect child of God: Even so the love to live ungodly, to wallow in all kind of vice, and to lie still in impurity of life, declareth to him that is such a one, for that same season, that he is nothing else then a Reprobate, the child of wrath, cursed of God, hardened as was Pharaoh.

Reading of Scripture or word.

AS he which knoweth his letters perfectly, and can spell, cannot but Read if he be diligent; and as he which hath clear eyes without impediment or let, and walketh thereto in the light, and open day, cannot but see, if he attend and take heed: Even so a man having the profession of his Baptism only written in his heart, and feeling it sealed up in his conscience by the holy Ghost, cannot but understand the Reading of the Scripture, because he exerciseth himself therein; comparing one place with another, and marking the manner of speech; and asking here and there, the meaning of a sentence, of them that be better exercised then himself; for he feeleth in his heart, and hath a sensible experience of that inwardly, which the spirit of God hath delivered in the Scriptures: So that he findeth his own feeling, as a good commentary unto him.

Resurrection.

1 AS a cunning Gold smith, knoweth what difference is betwixt a piece of earth, digged out of a Golde mine, and other common earth; but ask an ignorant man, and he will say there is no difference at all betwixt them: Even so at the day of judgment, God will know the dust of men's bodies, from common dust, which men cannot discern.

2 Like as if a Gardener, mingle diverse seeds together, and cast them into the ground, yet they will not be confounded one with another; but every seed will have his proper herb: Even so the bodies of men, although they be mingled together, yet everybody shall receive his own flesh at the general day of judgment.

3 Like as seed cast into the earth, during the cold, and storms of winter, smally appeareth, or not at all; but as soon as the Spring cometh, it sprouteth forth and flourisheth, growing more and more until the Harvest come, and then it recompenceth the Husband man's labor with plentiful increase: Even so our bodies (though they fall as see • e into the ground) are not neglected of God, who regardeth the smallest grain and vilest seed, but shall one day bring them out of the graves, where they were laid, in a far better case then they were before.

4 As in winter time by the nipping Frost, the trees loose their leaves, and the grass withereth, but at the Spring, they both receive that which they before seemed to have lost: So likewise, though men die, each in his order, now one and then another, yet they perish not, but shall live again at the last day, when the everlasting Spring shall be, without either Autumn or Winter.

5 As God giveth life unto the Infant, enclosed in the Mothers womb, and maintain the same after a secret and wonderful manner, until the tenth month, when it can be there r •• ained no longer, but must be brought forth into the world: Even so God, in whose hand is life and death, keepeth us alive in the midst of death; & the bodies which were cast into the earth, at the sound of the last unknown trump (living until then, after a wonderful sort) shall arise, at which time the graves, and every place where our bodies died, shall yield up the dead, that were in them, when as they shall truly live, and that forever.

6 As the Ashes in the night time, so covereth the fire, that no spark thereof, nor any light appeareth in the house, but yet it may easily be kindled & revived by dry straw, or a small match: Even so our life that cannot die, lieth as a sleep in our mortified bodies, which God in his good time, by his mighty word and power, can and will awake.

7 Like as in sleep (which is as deaths kinsman) no part doth his duty, the eyes see not, the ear heareth nothing, we can neither feel nor walk, but every member is as dead, overwhelmed with sleep, when as in the mean time, the mind liveth & ever moveth, and the next morning approaching, raiseth up the body, when as every member and part, performeth his wonted work, and more lively refreshed by sleep: Even so, though our carcases being in terred, seem to be deprived of all sense and moving, yet they perish not; but when the last and everlasting morning shall arise upon them, at the end of the world, they shall rise again, and the earth shall yield them far more glorious, when as God hath purged away the corruption and filthiness of them, as by the means of sleep.

8 As in the Law, the offering of the first fruits, and all the fruits of the earth were sanctified: So also by Christ, the first fruits of them that sleep, the promise of the rising again of our bodies, to life everlasting, is to us confirmed and assured. Exod. 23.16. & 34.26. Levite. 23.10. Deut. 26.2. &c. 1. Cor. 15.20. Colloss. 1.18. Reve. 1.6.

9 Like as it would make glad the heart of a lame man, or cripple, to hear that all his limbs should be restored again perfectly, as they were at the first: Or as it would greatly rejoice the heart of a poor naked beggar, to hear that he should be clothed, with most precious garments of Silke and Gold! Even so much more, ought all Christians to be joyful and glad, to hear that they shall be restored to all integrity of body and soul, at the general Resurrection, and so be clothed with most perfect & pure innocence of life, forever and ever.

10 As Hearbes, dead in winter, flourish again by the rain, in the spring time: So the dead Corpes that lie in the dust, shall rise up to joy, when they shall feel the dew of God's grace. Isaiah 26.19.

11 As the same seed in substance, that is sown, springeth again, yet altered in form and fashion: Even so our bodies, shall rise again, the same in substance, but marvelously altered in qualities. 1. Cor. 5.37, 38.

12 As our bodies, except they consume, rise not again, yet altered in form and fashion: Even so our bodies shall rise again the same in substance, but marvelously altered in quality.

13 As often as we rise from sleep, having our weary limbs refreshed, and as it were revived, so that we feel our selves in better case and ability to do any manner of thing, then before: Even so we should often remember, that death unto the godly, is but a resting of their weary bodies and bones, till they rise again, exceedingly bettered by immortality and glory; and therefore termed by the name of sleep. 1. Thes. 4.13, 14.

14 So bright and so glorious as one star appeareth above another: So much shall the state and condition of our bodies, at their Resurrection, excel the state and condition, that they are now in, during this time of immortality. 1. Cor. 15.41.

15 Like as the Husbandman taketh no thought, nor sorrow for the seed that is cast into the earth, because he hath a sure trust and hope, that it shall come again with a plentiful and an exceeding recompense: Even so the faithful, are not so unmeasurably heavy and sorrowful for the death of their faithful friends, as the heathen and unfaithful are, which have no hope or belief of the Resurrection. Reve. 14.13. 1. Thes. 4.13, 14.

16 Like as if impotent and miserable men, as experience showeth, can by art, even of ashes, make the most curious workmanship of glass: Even so we may in reason think, that the omnipotent and everliving God, is able to raise men's bodies out of the dust.

17 As the Goldsmith by his Art, can sunder diverse metals one from another; and some men out of one metal can draw another: Even so, much more may we think it possible for the Almighty God, to raise men's bodies being dead, and turned into dust, and mingled with the bodies of beasts and other creatures, or one man's body with another.

18 As the cloud took up the very true body of the Lord, yea even the whole perfect Christ: So likewise shall all godly persons be taken up into the air to meet the Lord their God, that they may live with Christ their Lord and head, for evermore. Act. 1.9. 1. Thes. 4.17.

19 Like as the root giveth all virtue and sap unto the tree: Even so is the matter of the Resurrection of the dead thorough Christ, the chiefest, greatest, and true principal point of the word and affairs of God. Esa. 26.19. 1. Pet. 4.6.

20 As the wicked & unbelievers, have in this life with their bodies, taken their own pleasures, joy, and delight: Even so in the life to come, at the Resurrectiō of the dead, they shall be plagued and punished with everlasting pain & torment, in the same bodies. Mat. 25.41. &c. 2. Cor. 5.10. Act. 24.15. John. 5.29.

21 Like as when the Corn is cast into the ground, it seemeth to be lost, for it rots and wasteth in the ground, but afterwards it springeth fair: 1. Cor. 15.36, 37. So when the body hath been corrupted, it tarrieth the time appointed by God, to come out of the earth, and to be altogether perfect.

22 As the Corn, by means of the seed taketh again a new shape, and that more fairer: So the faithful which dieth and goeth to rest with the seed of Jesus Christ, which is the spirit of God, is raised again by the same spirit, which raiseth the Son of God from death.

23 Like as Christ rose again in the self-same body in which he suffered: So we also shall rise again in the self-same flesh, which we carry about with us.

24 Even as Christ after his Resurrection, had another glory much greater then he had before: So we shall be far otherwise after our Resurrection, and so renewed into a more glorious state.

25 As the Sun and the Moon being of one substance, differ in dignity and excellency: So likewise in the Resurrection, our bodies shall have more excellent qualities, then they have now.

Regeneration.

1 As there is need of no Law, to compel the body to eat or drink, to digest, to sleep, to go, to stand, to fit, and to do their works of nature, for it is ready to do them of it own nature, when the case so requireth, and when it is meet, without all respect, either of reward, or punishment; and may not unfitly be said, as concerning these things, not to be under a Law, notwithstanding thereupon nothing less followeth, then that it doth therefore abstain from such works, unto which in deed, it so much more applieth it self, as they are less commanded, and are more natural unto it: Even so after the same sort, altogether doth the godly man behave himself, concerning the works of godliness, he is carried to the doing of them, by that his new nature of the spirit, albeit there were no Law at all; and all, both hope of reward, and fear of punishment, were away. 1. Timo. 1.9. Reve. 6.14.

2 Like as if a man have all his mind set upon drinking and gulling in of Wine and strong drink, having little delight nor pleasure in anything else; it argues a carnal mind, and unregenerate, because it effects the things of the flesh; and so of the rest: Even so on the contrary, he that hath his mind affected with a desire to do the will of God, in practicing the works of charity and Religion, he I say, hath a spiritual and a renewed heart, and is Regenerate by the holy Ghost. Rom. 8.14. Gal. 5.17.

3 As God in the beginning created us after his own Image: So also must he Regenerate us according to the same, which he doth by the holy Ghost, the third person in Trinity, one and the same everlasting God, together with the Father and the Son. John. 3.5. Math. 16.17. John. 8.36. & 15.5.

4 As a living body, although naturally it be the subject of sense, yet someone part of it may be benumbed and senseless: So the soul of one Regenerate, hath in it, at least the beginnings and seeds of all graces, howsoever some of them at sometimes do not work or appear: Whereas a carnal man is altogether destitute, yea incapable of them.

5 Even as we know that the trees have heat and life in their roots, in the midst of the coldest and sharpest winter; yea as many beasts lie all the winter long in holes of the earth, without eating, drinking, stirring, or having any iotte of heat, sense or life, in any of their outward parts; and yet there is a remnant of life, and of heat lurking in the heart, which being in Summer stirred up, doth revive the beast, so that it is able to go or run up and down, and to perform all natural actions, in the manner as it did before: So likewise a total decrease, or an utter decay of holiness, as whereby nothing is left, cannot happen to any one who is truly Regenerate, who in the greatest extremity and depth of his fall, retaineth some relics of God's spirit and of grace received; yea some life of faith, whereby he liveth to God in Christ; howsoever he be to the eyes of all men, and even in his own conscience a dead rotten stock.

6 Even as a man being suddenly taken with the plague, or any infectious sickness, saith, he knoweth not how it happeneth, only he seeth the effects of it: Even so the action of Regeneration, in it self is secret and unknown, but manifest in the effects which follow of it.

Regeneration not without sin.

LIke as the Israelites, suffered the Jebusites to dwell amongst them, to their great harm: Even so sin remaineth in our mortal bodies, conquered in deed, that it doth not reign over those that serve the Lord; yet not clean taken away, but left for our exercises, who having our mortal enemy dwelling in us, should fight against sin, under the banner of faith in Christ Jesus, who only hath, can, and will continually defend his people, subdue their enemies, and give his children the victory.

Repentance.

AS a prisoner will strive to get out of prison, by all kind of means he can, though he grate off some of his flesh: Even so a man that is out of the favor of God, must try by all kind of ways that he can, that if he cannot come to God's favor by one way, he may yet by another. Psal. 51.1. &c.

The Redemption of Christ universal.

1 AS the Sun is the general giver of light to the whole world, though there be many which do receive no light at all of it: Or as there was among the Jews, upon the year of Iubylee, a general delivery of all bond men, although many abode still in their bondage, and refused the grace of their delivery: Even so the Redemption of mankind by Christ, is available for all, although reprobate and wicked men (for want of the grace of God) do not receive the same; yet there is no reason that it should leese his title and glory of universal Redemption, because of the children of perdition, seeing that it is ready for all men, and all be called unto it. 1. Tim. 2.6. Col. 1.13, 14. 1. Pet. 1.18. Tit. 2.14.

2 As they who being taken in war, are wont either to be slain, or to be condemned unto perpetual bondage, except they be redeemed and ransommed: Even so, such were we all, being taken prisoners of the devil; who had us body and soul in his own power, from whose kingdom and tyranny, Christ hath most mercifully Redeemed us. Rom. 14.8. 1. Cor. 3.22. Phil. 1.21. 1. Pet. 1.18, 19, & 2.9.

No Reason for a man to find fault with another, that is more faulty himself.

1 AS it is against Reason, that a blind man should take vopn him to lead another man, that sees better then himself: Even so it is an unreasonable and impudent thing, for any man to offer to pull out a Moate out of his neighbors eye, when there is more need, that his neighbor should say unto him; nay rather suffer me to pull out the beam, that is in your eye. Math. 7.5. Psal. 50.16, 17.

2 As it is a very usual thing with the Papists, to condemn it for a great fault in Protestants, to leave off any of their popish ceremonies: When as they account it no fault in themselves, to cut off and defraud them of the Cup, in the ministration of the Lord's supper, which is commanded to be taken and dunken of all, by Christ our Savior himself. Math. 26.27.

3 As they cry out against us, for not subscribing and reproving in all points, to their writings and determinations: When as they themselves refuse to subscribe and allow universally to the word of God, adding and •• king from it at their pleasure. Deut. 4.2. & 12.32. Prov. 30.6. Reve. 22.18, 19.

4 Like as it is too too common in all sorts of men, that have great beams in their own eyes, whereof they make no conscience; yet will seem marvelous curious and careful, in drawing out Motes out of the eyes of others: Even so, he that of all the rest in the Parish, is the most worst observer, either of God's Law, or his Princes, he will be most ready to find fault, and to quarrel with the painful and faithful Ministers, for omitting the least • ite or ceremony, (as though he of all others, were the most desirous, that the Queens proceedings should exactly be followed) whereas in very deed, he could find in his heart, rather to have Popery fully established.

Rebukes.

AS Physions with their bitter drugs, do mingle sweet spices, that the sick patient may the more willingly receive them: So ought bitter Rebukes to be mingled with gentle admonitions, that the offender might be the better brought to amendment.

Righteousness peace, &c.

AS the earth being fertile and fruitful, and beautified with the gallant verdure of fresh flowers, and green herbs, is an argument of the bountiful goodness of God towards us: Even so, Righteousness, peace, tranquility, and other virtues, wherewith the mind & soul of man is garnished, declare the exceeding great goodness, and love of God towards mankind. Isaiah. 61.10. Gal. 5.22.

Rich men.

1 AS the fiercest lightning doth flash upon the highest Towers; the fairest Oaks come soonest to the fire, and the fattest Oxen are first knocked down: Even so, they which have the most money, are subject to the most miseries.

2 As poverty punisheth the poor man: So the Rich cannot rest for fear of robbing. Preac.

3 As the goutie man, the more he walketh abroad, the better is his health: Even so, the more the Rich man distributeth abroad, the more he shall inherit. Luk. 19.9. Gal. 6.10.

4 Like as a River when it goeth by an empty place, it will not pass until he hath filled that empty place; and then it goeth forward to another empty place and filleth it, and so to another empty place, and filleth it; always filling the places which are empty: So likewise should Rich men, fill the poor; the full should fill the hungry; they which abound, should fill them, which want; for the rich, are but God's Amners, and their riches are committed to them of God, to distribute, and do good, as God doth himself.

No Resistance against God.

LIke as the Eagle when she hath taken her pray, standeth with her wings spread over it: Even so, those whom the Lord raiseth up to conquer any Country and to destroy it, spread themselves all over it, so that there is no hope in resisting, nor refuge in running away. Jer. 48.4 • . Lamen. 4.19.

Repentant.

1 AS the Lily doth flourish and spring in the field or Garden: So God doth make the Repentant man, whose sins he forgiveth and pardoneth, to grow & flourish. Hose. 14.6.

2 As it is often needful for the preservation of the bodily life, that the patient be by detractiō of blood, brought to a swowne, and so even to deaths door: So likewise, it is needful for the spiritual life of the soul, that the Repentant be by sorrow and fear cast down, even to the gates of hell, as one forlorn, and being in a most wretched estate. 2. Cor. 7.8.

3 As the wise man exhorteth the good husband to be sowing his seed, at all hours, times, and seasons, because he knoweth not whether this or that will prosper: So likewise, a Repentant must take all occasions of hearing gods word, for that he knoweth not but that God will even at that time which he would bestow on worldly profits or pleasures, bestow his unspeakable blessing of regeneration upon him. Ecclesi. 11.6.

4 As that Offendant is liker to obtain mercy at the hands of his Prince, who standeth at his very gates in his presence, attending when he will beckon or call unto him, then he who having addressed himself to come before the King, keepeth himself aloof off, far out of his sight: Even so, it is liker that God will behold that Repentant with the eye of mercy, who is in his presence, hearkeneth to his voice, and attendeth his pleasure, then him who is out of his sight, and employed about other matters.

Rich men.

1 AS it is impossible for a Camel to go through the eye of a Needle: So also is it impossible for such a Rich man to enter into the kingdom of heaven, who is possessed of his possessions, for he hath made his Gold his God, though he do not so think nor persuade himself. Mar. 10.24, 25.

2 As those Fisher-men, which when they had sped well, did go and burn incense, and offer sacrifice to their Nettes, instead of praising God, who had blessed their endeavours: So likewise some profane Rich men, do ascribe their wealth and other blessings of this life, to the outward means and instruments, whereby they have gotten those things, forgetting wholly, that God is the only author and given thereof. Habba. 1.16. Psal. 127.1. &c. I am. 1.17.

3 Like as if a Cable be untwisted, and drawn into small threedes, it may be drawn through the eye of a Needle: So likewise he that is Rich, if he deny himself, abase himself, and lay aside all confidence in himself, in his riches and honor, and be as it were, made small as a twine thread, and with Joseph the good Senator, become the Disciple of Christ, he may enter into the kingdom of heaven. Math. 19.24. Luke 29.50.51. John. 19.36.

4. As Sheep that go in fat pastures, come sooner to the slaughter-house, then those which are kept upon the bare Common: So likewise Riche men, which are pampered with the wealth of this world, sooner forsake God, and therefore are sooner forsaken of God, then others. Rom. 9.22. Eccles. 9.1.

5 As that is not always a good horse, which hath his bridle and Sadle adorned with gold: So also may not that Rich man be accounted blessed, who hath rich atire, sumptuous buildings, and costly moveables.

6 Even as a Fly, coming to a platterfull of sweet and pleasant honey, if she thrust not her self altogether into it, but only touch and taste it, with her mouth, and take no more then is necessary and needful, she may safely go away, and fly to another place; but if she wallow, and tumble in the Honie, then is she limed, and taken in it; and whiles she is not able to fly away, she doth there loose her life: Even so, if a man, of all his Riches, take only so much as may sustain him, and honestly maintain his estate, bestowing the rest well and Christianly, his Riches then cannot hold him back, nor bar him out of the kingdom of heaven; but if covetousness shall bewitch him, and still prick him forward, to scrape together more and more, and shall make him even insatiable, then they take him, and hold him, and so belime the wings of his mind, that he cannot once in all his life, have one flight towards the kingdom of heaven; and thus being in thralldom and bondage to wicked Mammon, the ende of his pleasures in this world, is the beginning of his sorrows in the world to come.

7 As Aesopes Dog, who having a piece of meat in his mouth, and espying the shadow thereof in the water, thinking it had been another piece of flesh, snatched at it, and through his greedy desire, lost that, which before he had: Even so Rich men, who might peaceably and quietly enjoy the goods they have, and with pleasure the fruits of their labors, by their covetous humor they deprive themselves wholly thereof; and setting before their eyes, a fraudulent and deceitful hope of things that seem to be good, forget for the most part, those things that are good indeed.

8 Like as when we see a man that drinketh continually, & yet cannot slake his thirst, we conjecture forthwith that he is distempered, & that he hath more need to be purged, and his body to be cleansed from corrupt humors, then to give him more drink: Even so the great desire of Rich men, which always eateth, which hath so monstrous a belly, and insatiable, like unto the grave, doth evidently declare that the mind is very sick; and therefore to recover it self, it must be first purged and cleansed of the passion that tormenteth it; this being done, the disease would continually cease.

9 As it is hard for a Periwincle in the Sea to swim, or for a Snayle upon the land to creep, while they bear their houses upon their backs: Even so it is hard for a Rich man that trusteth in his Riches, with all his big bunches of wealth upon his back, to go through the needles eye, and to enter into the kingdom of heaven. Mark. 10.25.

10 As the Moon, when she is at the full, is farthest from the Sun, of whom she hath her light: So likewise many Rich men, who do flowe on every side, with the goods and Riches of this world, do even then in the midst of their wealth, withdraw themselves farthest from God, from whom themselves, and all their treasures, and whatsoever, have their being. Luk. 8.14. Act. 17.28.

11 As the Moon is not eclipsed, nor looseth any light, but when it is at the full: Even so some Rich men are wont, then thiefly to be eclipsed and darkened, concerning the love of God and their neighbors, when they be full of Riches, and abound with worldly wealth.

A Remnant reserved.

AS in the time of gathering of Olives, a few berries escape here and there ungathered: So when God doth bring general destruction upon any land, for the impiety of the people therein, and for the contempt of his word, and ordinances, a few here and there shall escape. Isaiah. 17.6. & 24.13.

Reprobate are in perpetual remembrance.

AS the letters carved in stone or other hard mettalles, with tools of iron and steel, are wont to be set up, for a perpetual memory, of that which men will have remembered: So God never putteth out of memory, the froward sins of obstinate and wicked men. Jer. 17.1.

The Register of our salvation.

AS the Pen of man serveth to commit to writing, those things, whereof he would have the remembrance continued: So the holy Ghost Registreth in the hearts of the children of God, those things, which God seeth necessary for their salvation, to be recorded of them. 2. Cor. 3.3.

Renued holiness.

AS in the natural birth of man, his body cometh into the world, not so great and strong as afterward it becometh, but little, weak, and impotent: So in the spiritual birth of Regeneration, the soul of man is not in the first moment, endued with perfection, but with a small measure of Renued holiness, from the which it is to grow, and go on forward to a perfect estate.

The Renued happiness of man.

EVen as when Saul turned his back to go away from Samuel, God changed him, and gave him another heart, and made him another man: 1. Sam. 10.9. Even so doth God, by changing the minds & wills of his elect, so secretly, as that they themselves know not which way it is done; make them new men, and prepare them for his everlasting kingdom.

A Remnant saved.

1 AS a number of things should yearly decay, & come to naught, except seeds of them were saved, whereof they are by sowing renewed: Even so the people that bear God's name upon earth, should in the day of visitation of their sins be clean and utterly destroyed, as Sodom and Gomorrah, but that God spareth some Remnant to be as it were a seed, for the increasing of his Church and people again. Rom. 9.29.

2 As great and mighty vapors, with the force and power of the Sun, are taken and lifted up from the earth; and do seek after the Sun, by whose strength and virtue they are carried up on high, and growing into clouds, do even follow the Sun: So there is a Remnant, and a little flock of Christ's, that in a true and unfeigned, and sincere love of God, are lifted up from the love of the world, and from all earthly, and fleshly affections, so far as is possible, for a man in this life to be, and do seek the Lord and his kingdom, in the singleness of their hearts; and thinking the time of their abode here, in this vale of all miseries, too too long, they daily sigh and groan, for a dissolution, & the coming of Christ, to judge the quick and the dead. Esa. 60.8, 9.

The portion of Reprobates.

LIke as of the shreddings of the Vine, cometh no profit, neither can they serve for any other use, but for the fire: So those whom God cutteth and casteth off from his Church, can serve for no other end, but for Hell fire. Ezech. 15. 2. &c.

Reading is not preaching.

1 AS the smell or sight of meat, doth good to the hungry man, but it will not feed him, except he taste of it: So by Reading of the Scriptures, men may have some feeling & smell of Religion, but they shall never thoroughly taste of it, without preaching.

2 As meat that is raw and fat, may be called good, but it is not to be eaten, before it be made ready and dressed: So are the Scriptures Read, good, holy, and pure, but not sufficient food for the people, without preaching.

3 As is a whole Loafe set or cast before children, which want strength to cut it: Even so is Reading without preaching, which indeed is a right cutting and dividing of the bread of life, that everyone may have his several portion. 1. Timo. 2.15.

4 Like as if one should offer good treasures to his friend, but yet such as were hid, shut up, and fast locked, and could not be come by, in thus doing, he should mock his friend: Even so bare Reading without preaching, is bare feeding; because preaching is an opening of the treasures, to the joy of God's children.

5 As fire covered with ashes, doth little or nothing heat, or profit them that stand by it: Even so bare Reading, is smally available to the people, without preaching; which preaching, is an explaining and a discovering of hard and dark points.

Like as if the Husbandman, should cast whole strikes and bushels of Corn on his land together on heaps, he should both loose his labor and his seed: Even so that Minister, that only Readeth the Scriptures in the Church and preacheth not, doth loose his labor, and deceiveth his auditory.

7 As that Fisher catcheth no fish, who shuffleth his Nettes on heaps, and not opening them: Even so that Minister, that contenteth himself, with the simple reading of the Scriptures in the Congregation, winneth no souls to God.

Refusing the means.

1 AS we see many men at sometimes, not so much grieved for the sickness it self, as for that they have willingly neglected the means, which might have preserved their health: or else for that they have abused the physic that might have restored their health to them again: Even so in like manner it fareth with those, who have either unreverantly refused the means, which should have kept their soul from surfeiting, or else unthankfully have abused those helps, which might have recovered them again.

2 As a riche man is sometimes humbled, for not giving money to the poor, which he might have done: So likewise, some are much grieved, for not using their good gifts to the benefit of God's Church; so also others are troubled for abusing their gifts to the hurt of God's Church.

The Resurrection, a woeful day to the unrepentant.

1 IF a man were bidden to go to bed, that after he had slept, and was risen again, he might go to execution, it would make his heart to ache within him: yet this, yea a thousand fold worse is the state of all impenitent sinners; they must sleep in the grave for a while, and then rise again; that a second death may be inflicted upon them, in body and soul; which is the suffering of the full wrath of God, both in body and soul, eternally. John. 5.29.

2 Like as when a Traveler comes into an Inn, having but a penny in his purse, who sitting down, calls for all store of provision and dainties, whose behavior and doing, may be thought in the judgment of all men, to be foolish and mad; because he spendes so freely, and hath no regard to the reckoning which must follow: Even so much more foolish and mad, is the practice of every man that liveth in his sins, and bathing himself in his pleasures in this world; never bethinketh howe he shall meet God at the last day of judgment, and there make a reckoning for all his doings.

A Reward.

1 AS a Reward is given to a workman, after his work is done: So everlasting life is given unto the faithful, after the travails and miseries of this life ended. Rom. 6.23.

2 As he which runneth a race, must continue and run to the end, and then be crowned: Even so must we continue to walk in good works unto the ende, and then receive our Rewarde, eternal life. 2. Timo. 4.8.

Real presence.

1 LIke as when a word is uttered, the sound comes to the ear: and at the same instant, the thing signified, comes to the mind: and thus by relation, the word and the thing spoken of, are both present together: Even so at the Lord's Table, Bread and Wine must not be considered barely, as substances and creatures, but as outward signs, in relation to the body and blood of Christ: and this relation, arising from the very institution of the Sacrament, stands in this, that when the elements of bread and wine are present to the hand and mouth of the receiver; at the very same time, the body and blood of Christ are presented to the mind: thus and no otherwise, is Christ truly present with the signs.

2 As one Candle is lighted by another, and one torch or candle light, is conveyed to twenty candles: Even so the inherent righteousness of every believer, is derived from the storehouse of righteousness, which is in the manhood of Christ: for the righteousness of all the members, is but the fruit thereof; even as the natural corruption in all mankind, is but a fruit of that original sin which was in Adam.

Remission of sin.

AS it is meet and needful, that the inferior seek to the superior; the beggar to him that is rich and liberal; the sick man to the Physician; the offendant, to the merciful Prince: So it is the duty of man, to seek for Remission of sin, for spiritual life, health, and wealth, at the hands of God, the only giver of all good things. Amo. 5.6 Math. 6.5. & 11.28.

Riches and dignities, make wicked men worse.

AS great Flouds, and swelling Rivers, when they overflow their channels, and do break through their banks by reason of their raging & violent streams, and so spread and run abroad, cannot fill and cover the field with water, but they hurt corn and grass, or what so else is in their way: So, great Riches, mighty powers, and high dignities, when they grow and increase in wicked & ungodly men, do not spread abroad, and run over the fields, and limits of Common-wealths, but they do much harm: to wit, they polle and pill away, the riches & substance, of the silly weak, and poor men; they fill they • purses, with the blood of innocents; they build their houses, and establish their dignities, upon the disgrace, and the oppression of the Saints and servants of God; and whatsoever is in their way, & to their liking, they carry it with them, by hook or crook, by right or wrong; they care not who weep, so they laugh; who be empty, so they be full; who be undone, so they be advanced: Here hence come slaughters, and murders; thus are many brought into great calamities, and miseries: But they that do these things to others, do hurt themselves most; for whiles they hurt others in their bodies, goods, or names, they kill their own souls.

Our Religion is not new.

AS a man in traveling, calleth it a new way, which he never went before, though the way it self be of long continuance and known of old: Even so may this our way and doctrine be well called a new Religion, not as though it were not before Popery, which the Papists count so old, and is not; but because that men through the the misty clouds of their errors and abuses, neither so generally, nor so perfectly did know, or traced it before. Act. 17.18.

Where Religion is not, there is no wisdom.

1 AS the one eye of the body, is so assisting to the other, for the making perfect of our sight together, that having the use of both, we attain thereunto; and otherwise the one being blinded, the light of the other, is somewhat dimmed & shadowed, & perhaps in the end fadeth away, and leaveth us altogether in darkness: Even so standeth the case between Religion & wisdom (the lights of the mind) being linked & placed together in the mind of mā, as the eyes thereof, to give light to his whole understanding; so that no wisdom is to be allowed without true Religion, & where Religion is not, there is no wisdom.

2 As we account him rather blind, or blinking, then otherwise, that shall say he hath eyes sound, pure & perfect, and yet in the open day, will never show use of them in the presence of men, but continually be wimpled, and wear a veil, so that no man can perceive whether he do see or no: Even so wisdom is no wisdom, and not to be accounted off in any, so long as it is dissembled, and not employed, that other men may see good proof thereof; for that Religion is no Religion, that showeth not it self by his plentiful fruits; so that what choice soever they that seem wisest or holiest, make of Religion, doing it so as other men shall not be able to discern it in them, nor to be witnesses thereof, they are indeed to be esteemed neither wise nor Religious.

3 As the Sun, which hath his Globe, his light, & his heat, is so conjoined, and wheresoever the one shineth, the other cannot but warm: Or as the soul & body, are so compact in one, that the body cannot but perform the pleasures of the same: Even so in whom so ever true righteousness in Christ is, in him also there cannot but be true Religion, the true fear of God, & holiness of life, which is the singular serving of God, in the inward desire of heart unfeignedly. Luk. 1.6. Psal. 116.10. Act. 4.20. Jer. 20.9.

Rage.

AS Fire being kindled but with a small spark, worketh otentimes great hurt and damage, because the fierceness thereof, was not at the first abated: So anger being harbored in the heart, breaketh forth oftentimes into much cruelty.

Riches oftentimes draw men to extreme danger.

1 AS among a flock of sheep, the Wolf chooseth out always the best and the fattest; and the Eagle likewise taketh the fattest Goose in the field: Even so do those men that live of ruin & spoil, when as they are minded to forage and purloyne for themselves, they search out the richest and best houses, and those fields, wherein there is the greatest store of Corn.

2 As we do with sponges, which we squeese & strain without hands, to make them yield us that water, which they have before soaked up: So also Princes & great men, when they have given their servants the means to wax wealthy, and that they have taken great pain to enrich themselves by a little at once, then afore they be aware upon the sudden, they lay hold upon them, and spoil them of that they have gathered.

Riches make covetous and prodigal men evil spoken off.

1 AS we see that Flies will stay no longer in a kitchen, then there is greace to nourish them: So flatterers, and claw backs, fool and bauds, which are usually in the houses of prodigal men, as soon as his wealth begins to diminish, & that he waxeth poor, they will then straightway give them over; yea if he be evil spoken of in their cōpanies, the same men, as well as others, will gretly blame him, for that he wasted his goods so riotously & so foolishly.

2 Like as men do with springs, which so long as they yield water, so long they are haunted, but when they be once dry, there is no further reckoning made of them: So flatterers & brainlesse persons, whose tongues are as light as their minds, such as for a morfell of bread, or a meals meat, will praise or dispraise whom you will; if the party fall into poverty by prodigality, they will then cast him off, and make no account of him.

Some Repent to have eaten too much.

AS many Repent that they have spoken too much, but few that they have been too silent: So likewise it is true that many Repent themselves, that they have eaten too much, but no man sorroweth for his temperance and sobriety.

Sin in all men.

1 AS we see those rivers, which spring out of little Wells, are of the same nature, that the head & spring is, whereof they come, though they run two or three hundredth miles off, through diverse countries: Or as those Crabs, are sower and bitter this day, which grow on the Crabtree, which is a hundredth or two hundredth years old, because the first root and plant was sower and bitter: So likewise we all be Sinful that be borne of Adam, and sower and bitter as he was; because he the first tree was such a one, and the spring whereof we came, was corrupt and filthy. 1. Cor. 15.21, 22. Hebr. 7.9, 10. Rom. 5.12.

2 As there is no Bread without Branne, no Corn without Chaff, no Garden without weeds, no Wine without Lees; no Gold without dross: So there is no wight that liveth, hath lived, or shall live, only man, without Sin.

Sin how dangerous a thing it is.

1 AS it skilleth not whether the ship sink, by sipping and leaking in of the water in a long time, or whether it be overwhelmed by surges at once: Even so, whither little Sins, or great sins work our destruction, it is all one; therefore we must avoid and eschew, not only great sins, but little sins also.

2 Like as if a Father should be sick of such a disease, that nothing would heal him, but the heart blood of his own child; he would presently judge his own case to be dangerous; and would also vow, if ever he recovered, to use all means whereby he might avoid that disease: So likewise, seeing nothing could cure the deadly wound of our Sin, but a plaster made of the heart blood of Christ; it must make us acknowledge our pitiful case, and the heinousness of the least of our sins, and stir us up to newness of life. 2. Cor. 5.19.

Salvation only in the Church.

1 AS Sothern-wood, will grow nowhere but in Gardens, where it is planted: So the godly will not grow anywhere, but in the Church, and body of Christ, where they are engraffed.

2 Even as it was necessary, that they which should be saved from the flood, should be in the Ark: So likewise all they that will be saved from the flood of God's wrath, must of necessity be in Christ, and so in the Church. Gene. 7.1. &c.

Sacrament of the Supper, compared with the Paschal Lamb.

1 AS the Paschal Lamb was instituted & eaten the night before the children of Israel were delivered out of Egypt: So likewise was the Supper of the Lord, instituted and eaten the night before we were delivered from our sins. Exod. 12.1. &c. 1. Cor. 11.24, 25. &c.

2 As the Paschal Lamb was a very Lamb indeed: Even so the Sacrament is very Bread and Wine indeed.

3 As the Paschal Lamb was called the Lord's passover, or passing by of the Lord, which destroyed the power of Pharaoh, & delivered him: So the Sacrament is called the body and blood of the Lord, which destroyeth the power of the devil, and delivereth us.

4 As the Children of Israel were but once delivered from Egypt, notwithstanding they did take every year a Lamb, to keep the deed in perpetual remembrance: Even so Christ our Savior, bought and redeemed us but once for all, although the Sacrament thereof be often distributed and broken among us, to keep the benefit in perpetual memory.

5 As many as did eat the Paschal Lamb in faith, and believed God's word, as touching their deliverance from Egypt, were as sure of the same thorough faith, as they were sure of the Lamb by eating of it: So as many as do eat of the body and blood of Christ by faith, and believe God's word, as touching their deliverance from Sin, Death, Hell, and damnation, are as sure of their deliverance thorough faith, as they are sure of the bread by eating of it. &c.

Sin, how carefully it is to be avoided.

1 AS the diseases of the body and corporal death, do much disquiet and trouble our minds, that we commonly tremble and quake at the only mention of them: Even so, howe much more ought we to fear the sickness of the soul, and death of the same, (which cometh by reason of sin,) then which there can be no greater, nor more fearful calamity come unto us.

2 Like as every man doth avoid (so much as in him lieth) the pain, miseries, diseases, and death of the body: Even so, howe much more ought we to decline and eschew the death of the soul, and the causes of these evils, which be Sins, and offenses; and fear the anger of God, which we so (by our transgressions) do procure.

3 As the Physician seeing in a Glass by the water, the diseases 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 infections of Sin, which are in us, and the cause thereof; and so wholesomely minister some profitable and comfortable remedies for the same.

4 As little thieves being let in at a window, will set open great gates for greater thieves to come in at: Even so, if we accustom our selves to commit little Sins, and let them reign in us, they will make us the fitter for greater offenses, to get the advantage of us, and to take hold on us.

5 As all kind of wild beasts escaping out of the snare, will take heed least they come there anymore; yea though they should be in bondage even unto man, the most excellent of all other creatures: Yet man by Sin falling into the snares of Satan, cannot beware, though he shall be in bondage, to the most cursed of all creatures.

6 As a drunken man, whilst he ingorgeth abundance of Wine, feeleth no discommoditie thereby, but afterwards he seeth and feeleth the inconvenience of the same: So in like manner, Sin whilst it is in committing, doth darken the light of reason; howbeit afterwards, the conscience arysing, showeth both the ugliness of Sin, and the absurdity of the fact; and so vexeth the soul more grievously, then if all the world accused him of the same.

Sacraments are not corrupted by the wickedness of Ministers.

1 LIke as there is no difference between the self-same image or figure of anything imprinted or sealed with a Ring or signet of Golde, and with a signet made of iron, or wood: Even so the word and Sacraments, being ministered by a lawful Minister, although otherwise a wicked, and an ungodly Minister, yet be the same Word and Sacraments, of the same vigor, strength and efficacy, as when they be ministered by a man of excellent virtue and godliness. For as the Father shall not die for the child, nor the child for the Father: So the Minister shall not die for him that receives at him, nor the party that receives, for the euilnesse of the Minister, for everyone shall sink in his own sin; so that the Minister, which doth so wickedly corrupt the holy Sacraments and holy ordinances of God, ministereth them to his own damnation, and judgment. Deut. 24.16. Ezech. 18.20. 2. King. 14.6. 2. Chro. 25.4. 1. Cor. 11.29.

2 Like as among men, if a Letter be sent, so that the hand and feale of him that sendeth it be well known, it maketh no matter, who, or what manner of man be the carrier: Even so it ought to suffice, to know the hand and seal of our Lord in his Sacraments, by what lawful Minister so ever they be brought: for the malice or lewdness of man, cannot change the nature of the ordinance of God. And therefore the virtue and efficacy of the word and Sacrament, consist and depend, not upon the worthiness, or unworthiness of the Minister; but in, and upon the commandment, ordinance, power, and authority of God only.

3 Like as Gold is Gold, of whom so ever it be given or received: Even so likewise is the Sacrament, whether it be given by a good or bad Minister: For Judas although he were a thief, yet he Preached, and baptized; whose doctrine and baptism, was as well the doctrine and baptism of Christ, as was Peters, and Andrew's, James, and John's. John. 6.70. & 12.6.

4 Like as if the Treasurer or Receiver of a Prince, do deliver forth false & counterfeit money, instead of good, the Office whereunto he is called, cannot make it other, then false and counterfeit money, because he doth not execute his Office faithfully, but doth change the good money, which he received, to distribute by the commandment of his Lord and Master, into that, which is not the same that he received to be distributed; and by this means, they which shall have received the same, shall be deceived and spoiled. On the other side, although he were wicked and unjust, if he did distribute it good, and such as he was commanded, the same could not let at all, but that it should be good currant money; and that they which should receive it, should very well make their profit thereof: Even so the Minister, (although he be lawfully called, and have sufficient gifts to Preach) yet if he do not administer the Sacraments according to the Lord's ordenāce, or do either disguise, & pervert them, or else do administer other instead of them; in thus doing the case is altered; but otherwise the viciousness of the person, cannot, nor may hinder the virtue of the Lord's ministry.

5 As the word of God, although it be Preached by mortal men, yet ought the same to be received of all good Christians, not as the word of men, but as the word of God, and as it were proceeding out of the mouth of Christ. 1. Thess. 2.13. Even so the holy Sacraments, although they be ministered by frail and lewd Ministers, are to be received of the godly and religious, not as proceeding from men, but as it were from the hand of God himself, the first and principal author thereof.

How Sin dependeth on God.

LIke as the Physician coming unto the sick person, doth by medicines draw corrupt humors out of his body, and bringeth them out either by a Purgation, or by a sweat, or vomit, or letting of blood, as he judgeth it best; yet doth he not graft in the sick person naughty and corrupt humors: Even so God causeth to be brought to light our malice, which was not brought forth before, but lay hid within, to make manifest his justice, and to open our Sins; and yet he suffereth them to break forth by chance, or rashly, but ordereth and governeth them, according to his judgment; that even by them, he doth fulfill the limits of his providence. Isaiah. 10.6, 7.15, 16.

The Scripture not hard.

LIke as if one should affirm, that because there be some bones in a shoulder of Mutton, therefore it is nothing but bones, and no flesh thereon at all: Or because some places in the river be deep, therefore all the river from head to foot is deep, and no shallow to be found therein, which were most ridiculous to affirm: Even so is this opinion of the Papists, that because some places in the Scripture be hard, therefore all the whole body of the Scripture is hard, so as lay people may not read them. Deut. 6.6, 7. Psal. 19.7, 8. Col. 3.16. John. 5.39. 2. Pet. 3.15.

Secrecie.

1 AS silence is a gift without peril, and containeth in it many good things: So it were better our Silence brought our simplicity into suspicion, then to speak either inconueniently, idly, or unnecessarily.

2 As the Viper is torn in sunder, when she bringeth forth her little ones: So Secrets coming out of their mouths, that are not able to conceal them, do utterly undo and ruin such as reveal them.

3 As we must render account for every idle word: So must we likewise for our idle Silence.

No Service pleaseth God, but such as he teacheth.

AS the Lord in the first Commandment, wholly demandeth the soul, will, understanding, and heart, that is our faith; fear, love, thankfulness, invocation, and spiritual adoration, or worshipping, to be given to him only, and for his sake, as he shall appoint: So in the second Commandment, Thou shalt not make to thyself, &c. He generally requireth for the outward Service of him, that we should follow his word, in serving of him, and take and account it no less then Idolatry, or Image Service, whatsoever thing is invented by man, Saint, or Angel, and not by him, concerning his worship and Service. Levite. 26.1. Exod. 34.13, 14, 15. Deut. 4.23. Psa. 97. 7 & 106.36. Isaiah. 44.19. Jer. 2.27.

There is no Sin whatsoever, but it is forbidden by the Law of God: nor any good work, but it is there commanded.

LIke as if a King being resolved, to forgive no offense worthy of death, and thereupon pretending to set down a Law, which if his subjects keep truly in every point, they shall escape the edge of his sword and be well promoted; yet one man for all that omitteth some matter worthy of death; which being done, the King conuenteth him before his judgment seat as a malefactor, layeth to his charge the committing of that evil, or omitting of that good, which is not contained in his Law; and upon confession thereof, giveth sentence of condemnation against him; the party might well answer his King, that he were unjust, and his Law imperfect: Even so in like sort, for as much as the Lord hath decreed death, to be the certain reward of every Sin. Rom. 6.23. and hath given his Law for this intent, and to teach man to avoid whatsoever is damnable, and that whosoever observed all things written in this Law, might live thereby; If there be any Sin, that is anything that he will damn a man for, not forbidden, or any good work, not commanded in this Law, then is God unjust, and the Law imperfect; of which neither is true: for as for God he is not unrighteous. Rom. 3.5, 6. And as for the Law it is perfect. Psal. 19.7. I am. 1.25.

Sacraments be commonly called by the names of those things, which they be Sacraments off.

LIke as when a Noble man or Gentleman, delivereth a letter of Annuitie or rent, to any one of his servants, he saith, he giveth him an Annuitie of ten pound by the year: No man is so simple, to think that the letter, is the money it self, but an assurance, confirmation, sign, or gage, of such a Sum of money; in such sort, that having such a letter, he is full assured of the money: Now no man is so blockish, to think that he hath evil spoken, for so much as every man doth well know, that the signs have the names of the things which they signify: After this manner of speech also; as an Ambassador of a Prince, being demanded of the authority he hath received of his Lord, to deal in such or such a matter, doth use to show forth his letters of credit, or Commission, and to say; Here is mine authority: albeit that the letters are not the power it self, but only the testimony of the same: Even so the bread and the Wine, are the remission of sins, or the body and blood of Christ: to wit, they are as seals and letters, whereby we are assured, that the body of Jesus Christ crucified, and his blood shed, have purchased unto us the forgiveness of Sins, and eternal life. Gene. 33.20. & 41.26. John. 10.7. & 14.6. & 15.1. 1. Cor. 10.4, 16. Ezech. 4.1. & 5.2. 2. Cor. 5.21. John. 1.14.

Salvation is to be sought, in and by the appointed means, though God could save us without all means.

AS God by his omnipotent power, could preserve alive our mortal bodies, extraordinarily and supernaturally, without natural food and sustenance, as he did Moses and Elijah, the space of forty days; they not receiving in that time any bodily meat or drink, according to the order of nature; yet nevertheless, no man ought to refuse meat and drink, being the ordinary means that God hath appointed, for the preservation of our bodily life: Even so God could save us without all means, and give unto us a lively faith, through the wonderful working of the holy Ghost; and that without either preaching, or hearing of his word, or else without prayer and ministration of the Sacraments; yet nevertheless, is it his ordinance not so to do. Exod. 28.18. & 34.28. Deut. 9.9. 1. Kin. 19.18. Act. 9.1. &c.

Sacraments.

1 AS the great Castle Gili • fer, floureth not til March and April, a year after the sowing; and Marians Violets, two years after their sowing: So the grace of God received in baptism, doth not by and by show forth it self, till some years after the infusion.

2 Even as the best medicines, do most annoy, unless they be rightly ministered and received: So the unspeakable wholesome Sacraments of Christ, to the worthy receivers, are all health and life; but to the unworthy, death and damnation.

3 As a seal is altogether unprofitable, yea not allowed a seal, unless it be bound or set to some instrument or writing, for the confirmation thereof: Even so the Sacraments are altogether unprofitable, yea indeed are no Sacraments, if they be not joined with the word of God preached, to confirm the same unto us. Matth. 28.19. 1. Cor. 11.26.

4 As they which come to hear the Gospel preached, and want faith, receive nothing but words; and the Gospel to them is no Gospel: Even so, they which come to receive the Sacraments without faith, do indeed receive the symballs or signs; but they have not the fruit, and thing of the Sacraments.

5 As Circumcision, (which was a Sacrament of the old Law) was a seal in that time to our Fathers of righteousness: Even so be our Sacraments to us in these days, seals of God's promises unto us; and all have one strength and virtue.

6 Like as the Sun, which shineth well for all, but not to all; so it happeneth to those, to whom the Sacraments are ministered.

7 As there are none, but those which have eyes, and do open their eyes, that do receive the light of the Sun, the which it representeth to all; but in the mean time, such as are blind, or do shut their eyes, do not receive it, for they have not the instrument, without the which they cannot receive it: So standeth it between the faithful, & the unfaithful, in respect of the ministry of the church; for it representeth unto all, the benefits of God. And albeit that the wicked and faithless do not receive them at all, that notwithstanding the fame letteth not, but that the Ministry hath always in itself his virtue. But in the mean while, it is not ordained but to be exercised towards those for whom it was ordained; or otherwise it should not be a Ministry; and by consequence, should not have his virtue. For where there is no faith in the heart, there the holy Sacraments, or signs, do no more profit the soul, then the light or shining of the Sun, do those that are blind.

8 As a corrupt and withered branch, which sticketh still fast to the tree, but for all that, can receive no strength or life from the roof, or heart of the tree: Even so the unfaithful, although they receive outwardly the bread and the wine, of the Ministers, in the Supper of the Lord, yet they do not receive the fat, or the inward strength, and the treasure; to wit, the life, & the holy Ghost; or to speak it in one word, the communion of the body, and of the blood of Jesus Christ; no more then the corrupted or withered branch, receiveth life and strength of the tree, in the which it is dead; albeit for a time, it cleaveth fast to it.

9 Even as it followeth not, that for so much as the withered branch can draw to himself no strength, nor receive life, that therefore it must needs be also, that the sound branches can draw or receive no strength or life of the trunk or body of the tree; or that it doth not communicate his life unto those good and sound branches: Even so it followeth not, that the Sacraments be vain and bare signs, because that the unfaithful cannot lay hold on life, nor on that which is offered, and sealed unto us by the same.

10 As the fault is not in the Tree, but in the withered branches, that it receiveth not from the Tree, a fatness or a iuce: So no more is the fault in God, which offereth and presenteth to all men, richly his gifts, but in the unfaithful, which neither will nor can receive and embrace the same, because of their unfaithfulness; through the which, they are dead in the body of the Christian church, as oftentimes a branch doth starve in a good tree.

11 Like as the Scripture of God, is an Indenture betwixt him and us, wherein is contained both the promises, grace, and mercy, which God offereth to the world in his son Christ; and also the conditions, which he requires to be fulfilled on our behalf: So the Sacraments are the seals set to this Indenture, to strengthen our faith, that we do not doubt.

12 As it is not enough to write the conditions of a bargain in an Indenture, except it be sealed: Even so God for our weakness, thought it not sufficient, to make us promise of blessings, in writing in his Scriptures, but he would seal it with his own blood; and institute his Sacraments, as seals and pledges of the same truth, to remain to be received of us, in remembrance of him, and strengthening of our faith. So that we may very conveniently say, that Sacraments are as witnesses, and solemn oaths, whereby we do as it were homage to God, and do make profession of our faith and Religion.

13 Like as in Circumcisiō there meet four things, that is to say; the promise, the commandment of the sign, and the belief of the promise: So likewise in the meeting of every Sacrament, the same things must of necessity meet: namely, that a godly Sacrament be a visible sign commanded and ordained by God: Whereby like as God beareth record of his promise unto men; so man accepting the sign, doth on the other side, profess his faith toward God, and confirmeth the same with the use of the sign, and by thinking upon it.

14 Like as if a man would take the bush, that hangeth at the Tavern door, and should suck it for to slake his thirst, and would not go into the Tavern where the Wine is, might be well accounted an idiot and a fool: Even so likewise may he be reckoned a fool, that (whereas the signs of the Sacraments were ordained by God, to be helps to nourish and plant faith in our hearts, and to confirm in us the promises of God,) he through ignorance thereof (as many do) should preposterously judge of the same, taking the signs, for the thing it self.

15 As Silver and Gold being not coined, is nothing else but Silver or Gold; but if by her Majesty's commandment, a new form or stamp be added by a print, it is made currant money, which it was not before, although it be the very same substance, which it was before: Or as if one take wax, which is fastened to a writing or public instrument, and it differeth not from other wax of it self, but only because of the use, to the which it is appointed; that is to say, to serve for a testimony, that the instrument is effectual and available, the which it hath not by nature, but by the ordinance of man: Even so the signs of the Sacraments, to wit, water in baptism, and bread and Wine in the Lord's Supper, although they be not changed, concerning their substance, mean, quantity, or quality, but only in the use of them, and do differ from common water, bread and Wine, in that they are ordained of God, to serve unto us as gages and pledges of those benefits, which Christ by his death and •• ssion hath purchased for us; yet they be ordained of God for an excellent covenant, to represent unto us most great and excellent things. And albeit that this mutation here spoken of, changeth not the substance of the signs, neither of bread, water, or Wine, but only the use of them; and is done and wrought by the holy Ghost, according to the ordinance of the good will of God, which is testified to us, by that promise, whereto the sign is joined, and not by the pronunciation of words, after the manner of Sorcerers, and Charmers, but the promise is the soul of the sign; so accordingly, the water, the bread and the wine, become Sacraments; that is to say, true and veritable signs of those things, which the word promiseth, and which be presented by them; so that this alteration is only in the use thereof; for before and after the administration of the Sacrament, it taketh no place, but only during the action and use, to the which this change or mutation tendeth.

16 Like as the word serveth to no purpose, except it be so preached, that it may be understood; and further, except that which it declareth and representeth to us, that is to say Jesus Christ, with all his goodness, be received by the faith of those which hear it: Even so also ought we to understand of the Sacraments, if we bring not faith, which is the only means to receive that which is preached to us, represented and offered by the same word; but contrariwise in despising them by our incredulity, and rejecting that goodness, which God offereth with the same to us, we seal our own condemnation.

17 Like as the Gospel ceaseth not of his own nature, to be the word of life and salvation, although the wicked through their contempt, turn it into the savor of death and damnation: Even so the Sacraments, cease not to be true Sacraments, although they be either ministered by unworthy persons, or received unworthily.

11 As the seed, how good so ever it be, bringeth not forth fruit at the same instant that it is sown, but continueth a certain time in the earth: So is it not meet to restrain the fruit and virtue of the word of God, to the same hour that it is preached, or the Sacraments to the same instant, that they be ministered; but the fruit shall be shown in the elect, when it pleaseth God.

19 As water is not the water in Baptism, nor a sign, nor consequently a Sacrament thereof; but so far forth as they be joined with the word of Jesus Christ, by the which it is dedicated and consecrated to that use, and so being applied to those persons, which are to be Baptized according to his commandment: So the very like is of the Bread and Wine of the Lord's Supper; for they can no more be the signs thereof, then may the water of Baptism, if being joined together with the word of Jesus Christ, whereby they are dedicated and consecrated to this Sacrament, they be not given, and distributed to those which should be partakers of the same; as it doth appear by the express word of Jesus Christ, in that he saith of both the signs: Take ye and eat ye; likewise, Drink ye all of this; For it is plain, that these words may not be spoken either to the Bread, or to the Wine; but only to the persons, which might understand them, and execute the commandment, that our Savior Christ gave unto them by the same: For the Bread and the Wine, can neither eat nor drink themselves. Math. 28.19. Math. 26.27. Mark. 14.22, 23. Luk. 22.19, 20. 1. Cor. 11.24.

20 Like as loving and tender hearted parents, are not content to procure for their children, costly possessions and lively-hoodes, but take order that the same may be conserved, and come to their use: Even so our Lord and Savior, thought it not sufficient, to purchase for us his Fathers favor again, (which is the deep fountain of all goodness and eternal life) but also invented the ways most wisely, (by the institution of his holy Sacraments) whereby the same might redounde to our commodity and profit.

21 Like as of old time, God decreed his wondrous benefits, of deliverance of his people, in memory by the eating of the Passover, with his rites and ceremonies: So our loving Savior hath ordained and established, the remembrance of his great mercy expressed in his Passion, in the institution of his heavenly Supper, where everyone of us must be guests and not gazers; eaters, and not lookers on; feeding our selves, and not hiring other to feed for us; that we may live by our own meat, and not perish for hunger, whiles others devour all. Exod. 12.1. &c.

22 As of necessity, we must be our selves partakers of the Lord's Supper, and not beholders of other: So we must address our selves, to frequent the Sacrament in reverent and due manner, least as Physic, provided for the body, being misused, more hurteth then profiteth; so this comfortable medicine of the foul, vndecently received, tend to our greater harm and sorrow.

23 Like as the Supper of the Lord is a spiritual meat, and sweet to those that be incorporated and made one body with Jesus Christ, and with their neighbor: Even so of the contrary, it is a mortal poison to them, which put not their whole trust in Jesus Christ, and be separated from their neighbor.

24 As it is not enough for a child to be borne, and that he have life by his parents, which begot him, if that afterwards they do not also nourish him, to conserve him; and to the ende that he may grow and become tall and strong in the same: Even so God our Father, doth not content himself to have begotten us for his children in his Church, by the incorruptible seed of his word, and to have given us life in his Son Jesus Christ, by the virtue of his holy spirit; but will also conserve and nourish us in the same, by the right use of his holy Sacraments, and will make us to grow and wax strong, and accomplish the work which he hath begun in us, and all this by his Son Jesus Christ.

25 As it is not enough that a shepherd do only gather his sheep into the fold or sheepecoate; but also that he provide meat for them and pasture: Or as it is not sufficient that a Master do only entertain his servant, into his service, by giving him his Liuerie coat & badge, whereby he is openly known to be his man; but also that he provide and give him meat and drink daily to feed him: So surely doth the Lord with us in these Sacraments. For by baptism, doth he admit us to his service, and by the Supper doth he feed us, that we perish not with hunger.

26 Like as man's body is nourished and sustained by bread and Wine: So also our souls are sustained spiritually, with the body of Christ given for us, and with his blood shed for our sakes. John. 6.32, 33, 35. 1. Cor. 11.24, 25.

27 As bread nourisheth our bodies: So thereby we learn, that Christ's body, hath most singular force, spiritually by faith to feed our souls. John. 6.50, 55, 56.

28 And as with Wine men's hearts are cheered, and their strengths confirmed: So we learn also, that with his blood our souls are refreshed thorough faith.

29 And further, as surely as we know, that we have received the bread & wine with our mouths and stomachs: So surely thereby we are assured, that Christ maketh the faithful believers, partakers of his body and blood. John. 6.54, 63, 64.

30 As those which have eaten sweet Comficts, and seed for the most part on delicate Cates, have sweet breathes: Even so must there needs be found a sweet smelling Odor, in all the words and works of those, which are fed with this spiritual and heavenly food, the body and blood of Christ, and in whom Christ doth dwell; for they do all things for the profit and edification of their brethren, and the glory of God.

31 Even as the Gospel, which of it own nature is the word of life and salvation, is yet turned by the wicked, unto the savor of death: So the Sacraments also, which are instituted by God, unto the saluatiō of men, are notwithstanding, received by the faithless, and the unworthy communicants, unto their condemnation, and judgment: and yet do they not desist in respect of God, to be true Sacraments still.

32 As a sick man feels no comfort or nourishment, when he eateth meat, and yet it preserveth his life: So the weak Christian, though he feel himself not nourished at the Sacrament by Christ's body and blood, yet he shall see in time, that his house shall be preserved thereby, unto everlasting life.

32 Like as Soldiers, when they receive their pay, do bind themselves to their Captain, by solemn oath: Even so we, when we are partakers of the holy Sacraments which God hath appointed in his Church, by the which he bestoweth upon us spiritual gifts, do bind our selves to him, by the same oath.

34 As we see with our eyes, that the bread is broken for us: So we are certainly confirmed in our faith, that the body of Christ was given unto death for us.

35 As certainly as we see that the bread and wine to be present: So certainly do we believe, that the body and blood of Christ is present with us also: yea we do not believe, that it is the Supper of the Lord, except his body and blood be present with us.

36 As things set before the eyes, do move the sight: Even so the Sacraments move the heart to believe.

37 Even as sure as we take the bread in the Lord's Supper, and eat it with the mouth of the body, and drink the wine: So verily & certainly, even at the same instant, with the mouth of our faith, we receive the very body and blood of Christ, and there it doth as actually comfort and sustain the soul, as doth the bread and the wine nourish and comfort the heart, and the outward man.

38 And as verily as the most sovereign plaster and salve laid to a wound or soar, draweth out the filth, and healeth it: so verily and really, doth the body and blood of Christ thus received, put away the soars and deformities of the soul; and not only maketh it whole, but also pure, clean, without scar, wrinkle, and spot, and so maketh it, a delectable, lovely, & fair spouse in the sight of God.

39 As when many Windows be opened in an house, the more light may come in, then when there is but one opened: Even so by the perception and receiving of the Sacraments, a Christian man's conscience hath more help to receive Christ, then simply by the word preached, heard, or meditated; and therefore the Sacraments may well be called seeable, sensible, taste-able, and touchable words.

40 As the Devil entered into Judas by the soppe which Christ gave him, yet not that he received an evil thing of him, but because he did receive it badly, and with an evil mind: Even so the unworthy communicants, eat and drink their own damnation; not by the eating of the bread and wine, (which are holy signs) but because they receive the same, without faith and repentance, having in evil conscience.

41 As the word Sacramentum, was a form of a solemn •• h in war, whereby the soldier did vow & destinat himself to serve his General, and the General in like manner did bind himself to his soldiers: So also by the use and institution of the holy Sacraments, after that God hath promised that he will be our God, and give unto us salvation, he doth in like manner, bind us as it were with a solemn oath, before himself, before Angels, and men, that we will serve him, and none other.

Soul.

1 LIke as to be healthie in our bodies, it is not inogh, not to have the plague, or a plurasie, but generally to be free from all diseases: Even so to be holy in our Souls, we must be clean from all spots, and defilings; and we must take the whole law of God, as an universal rule of all our thoughts, affections, words, and deeds; to the end to keep it from point to point, and not to omit anything which is there commanded us.

2 As sweet Oil poured into a fustie vessel, looseth his pureness, and is infected by the vessel: So the Soul created good, and put into the corrupt body, receives contagion thence. Rom. 5.13.

3 Like as if a man should borrow a thing of his neighbor, and use it so, as he doth quite spoil it, he would be ashamed to bring it again to the owner in that manner, and if he do, the owner will not receive it: Even so ungodly men in this life, do so stain their Souls with sin, as that they can never be able to give them up into the hands of God, at the day of death: and if they would, yet God accepts them not, but casts them away.

4 Like as we know that in any common danger or peril; as the sacking of a City, or burning of an house, if a man have any precious Jewel therein, he will first fetch that out, and make choice of a faithful friend, to whose custody he will commit the same; Even so, in common perils and dangers, we must always remember to commit our Souls, as a most precious Jewel into the hands of God, who is a faithful Creator. Psal. 31.5. Luk. 23.46. Act. 7.59.

5 Even as a little Bird shut up in a Cage, although it be very precious and costly, and be made of Cedar, Iuorie, or Gold, yet she desireth to go out, and striveth to have her liberty, and in her eager and earnest desire to be gone, she doth oftentimes thrust her bill through the loupes of the Cage: So likewise the Soul of a virtuous man, inflamed with an unfeigned love of God, being shut up and holden in the coupe of his body, although he abound with all necessaries, fit for the preservation of this temporal life, yet most earnestly desire to depart hence, and to go to his Counrie, which is heaven. 2. Cor. 5.2. Phil. 1.23.

6 As the Soul hath a heavenly, and the body an earthly beginning: So the Soul is immortal, and not suffering corruption; the body is mortal and corruptible, and yet be so joined together without confusion, that in both, remaineth his own nature.

7 As it were great folly to buy a house for the body, laying out so much thereupon, that for want of goods, and other maintenance, the body so well housed must die for hunger: Even so, a man shall get nothing by keeping his goods for to feed & clothe the body, which is the house of the Soul; and in the mean time suffer the Soul to pine away, and to die for hunger. Math. 16.26.

8 Like as it grieveth and maketh sorrowful, and expert Jeweler, when he beholdeth and seeth, those Jewels and precious stones, which he with all his wit, industry, and Art, hath trimmed and polished, to be tumbled and tossed in the foul and filthy fingers, of children and fools, who neither knowing them, nor esteeming them, do soil, blemish and despise them: Even so, our heavenly Father, when he seeth our Souls, the which he hath created after his own similitude and likeness, to be in the midst and depth of the corrupted cogitations, wicked and beastly thoughts, and hellish imaginations of our hearts, he taketh it heavily, and in evil part. Math. 9.4. & 15.18. Ezech. 11.5.

9 As the Soul of Christ was received into Paradise, the same day that it departed out of the body: So also must we think of the blessed spirit & Souls of the Saints, according to the promise made to the thief. Luk. 23.42. Phil. 1. 2.

10 As a body without a Soul is clean dead, and nothing but a filthy loathsome carcass: Even so the Soul, unless it stir and raise up it self by prayer, is dead and miserable.

11 As they that have healthful bodies, easily endure both cold and heat: So they that have a stayed and settled Soul, have the dominion, over anger, grief, joy, and all other their affections.

12 As the body of man by nature is mortal, lumpish, and heavy, delighting in those things which are visible & temporal, and always of it self sinketh down-ward: So the Soul, being of a celestial nature, violently enforceth her self to fly upward, and with all her might, striveth and wrestleth continually, against the heavy burden of the earthly body, wherein she abideth; despising those things which are mortal, and only desiring things permanent and immortal.

13 Like as a man comforteth his earthly & corruptible body, with bread and meat, when it is hungry; and with ale, beer, or wine, when it is thirsty: Even so doth the Soul of man (when the lawsheweth to her, her faults and eternal damnation, and the dreadful judgments of God for her offenses) comfort her self in her great hunger and thirst; believing that Almighty God, hath forgiven his sins for Christ's sake.

14 Even as a man, who by chance is fallen into a deep dry pit, far from succor, cannot by any means possible help him self out, unless some man come with some ladder, or other instrument to help him our; desireth to be delivered out of the pit, but by his own wit he cannot tell how: Even so the Soul of man, desireth to be delivered out of the sorrowful agony of death, hell and damnation, but she cannot tell how, otherwise then by the righteousness of Christ. Psal. 42.1, 2. John. 7.37.

Slaunder.

1 AS the hairs of the beast Tarandrus is not to be pearsed with any weapon: So some men are such, as are never hurt with Slaunder, or reproach.

2 Like as the Chameleon, can change himself into all colors save white: Even so the Slaunderer can frame his tongue to speak anything, save for his neighbors credit; but that he can as hardly be induced unto, as the Leopard to change his spots; the Black-amore his skin, or the Brick his color.

3 As the good name is to be much more esteemed then silver: So the wound of Slaunder & defamation, is almost incurable; so that a mā may better beware of such as steal his goods, then of the Slaunderer & backbiter, that taketh away his good name. Numb. 16. 1. &c. 2. Sam. 16.3. Hest. 3.8. 1. Sam. 24.1. &c. 2. Sam. 15. 1. &c. John. 7.20. Math. 11.19.

4 As when a wound is cured, there remaineth a scarce: So against a Slaunder, howsoever a man purge & justify himself, yet will there still remain an evil opinion, at the least in some. Psal. 101.5. 1. Cor. 4.6. & 6.10.

5 Like as Cham, the Father of the Canaanites, having seen the shame of his Father Noah, and in lieu of covering it, having shown it to his brethren, was accursed, both he and his posterity, by the mouth of his own Father: Even so they (who knowing the frailty, faults, and infirmities, and consequenly, the shame and reproach of their brethren, where they ought in charity, to cover the same) do nevertheless by backbiting, and evil speaking, lay them open, do well deserve to be accursed with Cham, and called Canaanites. Gene. 9.22. Psal. 50.19, 20, 21. Act. 24.5. 1. Sam. 21.1. &c. Psal. 52.2. &c.

6 Like as if when sundry Faggots lie each by other, thou shouldest kindle the one, and so by degrees burn them all: So likewise, if he to whom thou hast opened thy mouth, to Slaunder and backbite thy brother, hath no more hold of his tongue, then thou hast of thine, so thou hast put into his hand a staff, wherewith, by revealing thy secret, to bring thee into brabling and strife; and therefore thou oughtest not to reveal that to another, which thou wouldest should be kept secret.

7 As in a Country, upon any murder, or other heinous trespass, they ring the Town bell, which when other Towns or Villages do hear, they likewise do ring theirs, and so from one to another, whereby all the Country is soon advertised, that their is some offender to be taken or stayed: Even so thou, when the clock of thy tongue hath stricken, look that he that heard it, will likewise strike his; and his neighbor that heareth it, his; and so shall the infirmity of thy neighbor soon come to the ears of many. And therefore if thou beest loath it should be known, then thou oughtest not to have uttered that, which thou knowest every man will be ready likewise to utter.

8. Like as if there were no receiver of thefts, there would not be so many thieves: So if none would hearken to Slaundring and backbiting, there would not be so many backbiters. Prov. 25.23. Psal. 15.3.

9 As a shaft shot against a stone, reboundeth, and sometime hurteth him that shot it: So when a Saunderer or backbiter, seeth his countenance that heareth, or indeed hearkeneth not unto him, sad, or frowning, he holdeth his peace, he waxeth pale, his countenance is troubled, and his tongue stoppeth suddenly. Exod. 23. 1.

10 As one stripe of the tongue woundeth three, the backbiter, him that giveth ear to the backbiting, and the backbitten: So the two first, do thereby wound their consciences to death, by deserving the sentence of eternal fire; but the third is no whit damnified, but in his good name, and that peradventure but for a short space.

Sober in youth, and childish in old age.

THere is a nation in India called Pandora, which people in their youth have gray hairs, but in old age their hairs are altogether black: So some in their youth be Sober and modest, but when they wax older, then they are given to more folly and trifles, in so much that they may seem to wax children again.

Spirit.

1 AS Comfrey, sod and put with minsed meat, bringeth it altogether again into one mass or lump: So the Spirit, joineth in one those which were severed, if it be among them.

2 As Baulme put into Beehiues, causeth the Bees to keep together, and other to come unto them: So where the Spirit of God is, it causeth Christians to abide in one, and draweth other unto them.

Some snared with their own devises.

AS Perillus, who gave the brazen Bull to the Tyrant Phalaris, who caused the said Perillus to be first pained and tormented in the same engine, which he had invented: Even so some do fall into the pit and snare which they had made and devised for other. Psal. 57.6. Pro. 26.2. Eccle. 10.8.

Some have better liking to other men's things, then to their own.

EVē as Adulterers are greatly pleased with other men's wives, but their own they do contemn, and little regard: So some men do more delight in the pleasure, or things of other men's, then in their own.

Sabbath.

1 LIke as Masters will be displeased with their Servants, if they spend their time idly, wherein they should apply their work: Even so we may well think, that the Lord will not be contented with them, who when they should sanctify his Sabbath, and do his work, either show themselves as slow-bellies therein, or else altogether neglect the same, to serve their own voluptuousness.

2 As the Scholar deserveth to be corrected and punished, that playeth the treuant, and so absenteth himself from the School: Even so no doubt the Lord will punish and be revenged of those that absent themselves, (without just cause) from the congregation of God's people.

3 David would not have his servants adventure their corporal lives for his provision, nor drink the water, when they had provided it: Even so, much less ought Christians for their meats sake, to adventure their lives; yea the souls of their servants & Cooks, in being absent from the holy exercises of the Lord's Sabbath. 2. Sam. 23.15, 16, 17. 1. Chro. 11.17, 18, 19.

4 Like as Christian Masters would not be content to see their servants plowing, carting, or working on their Trades, on the Sabbath days, (which yet to do, is lawful on the six days) least they should be accounted breakers, both of God's laws & their Princes: Even so, much more they ought to be ashamed to behold & see their children or servants to profane the Lord's Sabbath, by dycing, carding, foot-ball, or stool-ball playing, &c. which are more unlawful to be done on this day, then working on their Trades, but yet forbidden, both by God's Law, and their Princes Law.

5 As it is lawful on the Sabbath day, to pull and draw out a sheep, or other cattle, out of a pit or ditch whereinto it is fallen, and wherein it would otherwise perish: Even so much more it is lawful to do good, and to relieve any kind of necessity of our neighbor, the same day.

6 As it is sin, not to be careful of the Sabbath, that we might rest upon it, so it is greater sin not to observe it; that it might be a Sabbath unto the Lord, by sanctifying it: and if for want of heedfulness, anything do compel us to work upon the day of rest, it is our sin in not marking the Sabbath day: So if by our negligence we cannot sanctify the day of rest unto the Lord, it is a greater sin, of not remembering to keep it holy, which is the first and greatest thing in this Commandment. Deut. 5.12. Exod. 20.8.

7 As the Passe-over, though it were a Sacrament only belonging unto the Jews, and the difference of meats, and of clean and unclean things, was proper unto them, yet the Lord would have the strangers that dwelt among them, be subject to the same Laws, for the good of his people; and so that otherwise he would not have them, to have any dealing with them (for he threateneth to cut them off from his people) as appeareth. Exod. 12.19. Levite. 17.12, 15. Even so likewise, the Lord would have this holy Saboth of rest, without all interruption and gainsaying, to be duly observed on all sides; when unto the particular commanding of all estates, by name to rest, he hath adjoined the beasts and the strangers, upon whom he lays the like charge. Exod. 23.12. Deut. 5.14.

8 As other things are called most holy unto the Lord, because they are separated from the common use, wherein other of the same nature are employed, and may not be used, but to the Lord's use, Exod. 29.44. & 40.13. Levite. 27.28, 30. So the Sabbath day, or day of rest, is then sanctified and hallowed of us, when we do not use it in the affairs of this life, from the which it must be separated, and from which upon it we must rest; but use and make that day proper unto it, and to nothing principally but that.

9 Even as the child, which is set to read, must name every letter apart and distinctly by it self, and spell every syllable, that so he might be holpen forward in reading, which when he hath attained unto, though still he be bound to read, yet he is freed from spelling, and naming every letter, as he had wont to do, and that were a great bondage and wearisomeness to bind him unto it still, nay it were altogether ridiculous, and childish in him indeed: So now, though we be charged to rest upon the Saboth, yet when we are not overcharged with those Jewish ceremonies, which they (being children) had given thē, as furtherances unto them, let us not complain, before we have cause; neither murmur against God, because we cannot be so licentious as we would; seeing we be at such liberty, as we be, and as it pleaseth the Lord to bestow upon us; and let us be so much the more careful to rest, by how much we have but this one thing to attend upon, and are made free from many other, which might hinder us. Deut. 6.8, 9. Gal. 4.3.

10 As they preposterously labor to reform the church, that have no care to reform themselves, and undiscreetly complaining of wants and disorders there, do not practice better orders in their houses, upon themselves, and theirs, do hinder it, and keep them back: Even so they that labor for more means to sanctify the Sabbath, and are careless in practicing those that they have, do stay such good blessings as God might otherwise bestow upon his Church this way.

Notorious Sins.

LIke as a man is much more to be blamed, which goeth out of his way in the clear Sun at noon-tide, then he which goeth by night with a candle: Even so, such men deserve much more to be punished for committing of foul and notorious Sins, now under the clear light of the Gospel, then in the time of the Law.

Sin covered by Christ's innocence.

AS a garment or cloak do serve to cover our bodies: Even so the innocence, justice, & holiness of Christ Jesus, doth serve to cover our Sins before the judgment of God, to the end that there appear no one spot of them in his sight. Gal. 3.27.

Sinner.

1 LIke as God is much pleased with the prayer of the just: Even so, much more he doth delight in the amendment of the Sinner; for it doth little profit for the one to multiply his prayers, if the other do not diminish his sins.

2 As an earthly Father when his child is sick, he will not cast him away, but take pity vpō him: So much more our heavenly Father, when a Sinner humbleth him self before him, and lamenteth his sins, will show his fatherly affection towards him that repenteth.

3 As the night in the first dawning of the day, in which though the darkness remain, and be more in quantity then the light, yet when the Sun hath already cast some beams of light in the air, then the breaking of the day appeareth: Even so, the conversion of a Sinner is not wrought all at one instant, but in continuance of time, and by certain measures and degrees. So that he that is in the first degree of his conversion, when the holy Ghost by the means of the word, inspires him with some spiritual motions, and begins to regenerate and renew the inward powers of his soul.

Sin.

1 LIke as that man's disease is most perilous, which lies sick, and feels not his sickness, nor cannot complain of one part more then another (for then the disease hath equally troubled the whole body): So likewise they which lie wallowing in sin, so forgetting God and all goodness, that they feel no remorse of conscience for their sins, are desperate, and almost past all recovery.

2 As virtue must be embraced in heart, in affection, in countenance, word, and deed, or else we are found breakers of the Law of God: So likewise Sin must be abstained from, as well in heart, in affection, in countenance, and word, and also in deed.

3 Like as the dead body lies rotten and stinking in the grave, fearful, and loathsome to look on, and grievous to remember: Even so when we lie buried in Sin, we stink in the sight of God, he cannot abide to look on us, nor will remember us.

4 And as when the body lieth on sleep in the bed, (which is an Image of our grave) can neither see, feel, hear, taste, smell, understand, nor yet move out of the place, until it be awaked, nor can take any pleasure at all, in any one creature of God: So we when we lie sleeping and wallowing in Sin, we neither see the majesty of God, with the eyes of our faith, nor feel his mercies offered unto us, in and by his dear Son our Lord and Savior Christ Jesus; nor yet can taste at all how sweet the Lord is; our ears are stopped from hearing good counsel; we perceive nothing at all of God's goodness towards us; his word is not sauerie unto us, neither yet be we moved or stirred up to do any one good work of charity. Rom. 13.11.

5 Like as Carrion doth not only smell evil it self, but infects all that come near it: So likewise that man that is defiled with any notorious Sin, doth not only defile all things that he takes in hand, but all such as keep him company; so that Sin hath greater force and strength to defile other things, then goodness hath to make other things holy. 1. Cor. 15.33. 2. Timo. 2.16, 17. Rom. 6.23.

6 As a beast over-laden, is ready to sink under his burden, except there be present help at hand to ease him: Even so we are in danger to sink into the pit of perdition, by reason of our great and grievous burden of Sin, except we fly to Christ, who only and alone can unburden us, and ease and refresh us. Math. 11.28.

7 Like as if we do suspect any uncleanness in us, wherefore the Prince, or any Noble man, should loath or abhor the sight of us, we would take great pains to remove & put it away: Even so, much more we ought with all diligence and speed that may be, to put away that unclean Sin and filthiness, that doth separate, and make division betwixt us and God; and that hideth his face from us, that he will not hear us. Isaiah 59.2. Jer. 5.25.

8 Like as if there were an Apostume about the stomach of a man, or in his bowels, it would be never a whit the worse for him if it were seen, that it might be lanced: Even so, that man that thinketh himself to be whole and sound, because he will not see his sin and disease, he must needs be void of all wit and reason.

9 Like as a man that hath a disease or soar in his body, before he can be cured of it, he must see it, feel the pain of it, and be in fear least it bring him into danger of death; after this, he shall see himself to stand in need of physic, and he longeth til he be with the Pysician; when he is once come to him, he desireth him of all loves to help him, and to show the best skil he can, he will not spare for any cost; then he yields himself into the Physicians hands, persuading himself, that by God's blessing, he both can and will help him; after this, he comes to his former health again: So in like manner, every man is wounded with the deadly wound of Sin, at the very heart; and he that would be saved and escape damnation, must see his Sin, be sorrowful for it, and utterly despair of his own strength, to attain salvation thereby: Furthermore, he must see himself to stand in need of Christ, the good Pysician of his soul; and long after him, and cry unto him, with deep sighs and groans, for mercy; after this, Christ Jesus will come with a plaster of his own heart blood, which being applied, he shall find himself revived, and shall come to the assurance of the forgiveness of all his sins. Psal. 51. 1, 3, 8, 12, 17.

10 As a man that hath lost wife, goods and children, should be much grieved: So he that hath committed great Sins, ought to be as a man bruised between the wall and the door.

11 Like as a man is more to be blamed, which goeth out of his way in the clear Sun at nonetide, then he that misseth his way by night with a candle: Even so are men, more to be punished for such foul Sins, as they commit in the clear light of the Gospel, then in the time of the Law.

12 As of clouds, when they be vanished away, there is nothing seen: Even so the Sins of God people, when he forgiveth them, are clearly put both out of sight and remembrance. Isaiah. 44.22.

13 As Opium, Hennebane, and other things extremely cold, hide not pain, but make the body so astonied for a time, that he feeleth not the pain; but afterward when it cometh to it feeling, the disease and pain is commonly more grievous then before: So Sin and want of zeal, &c. hide not from torment of conscience; but make the soul so astonied for a time, that it feeleth not the torment; yet afterward when it cometh to his feeling again, the torment is more desperate then before.

14 As it would not avail or profit a City, diligently to watch at one gate, and keep it shut against the enemy, if in the mean while all the rest stood wide open to him: So likewise it is to no purpose, to keep ourselves from one Sin or vice, unless we make account, and conscience, to abandon our selves from all other vices.

15 Like as Surgeons, when they must cut off any part of the body, use to lay plasters to it, to mortify it, that being without sense and feeling, it may be cut off with less pain: Even so in like manner, we are to use all helps and remedies prescribed in the word, which serve to weaken or kill Sin, that in death it may be abolished. 1. Cor. 9.27. Gal. 5.24. Col. 3.5. 2. Timo. 2.21.

16 As a debt doth bind a man, either to make satisfaction, or else to go to prison: So likewise our Sins binds us, either to satisfy God's justice, or else to suffer eternal damnation.

17 As we see by experience that a ship which leaketh, is more easily emptied at the beginning, then afterward: Or as a ruinous house, the longer it is let run, the more charge and labor will it require in the repairing: Or as we see that if a man drive a nail with a hammer, the moe blows he giveth to it, the more hard it is to pluck it out again: Even so that man that committeth Sin upon Sin, and by perseverance therein, thinketh to find the redress thereof more easy hereafter, then now, is greatly deceived.

18 As a river that glideth and runneth very swiftly, until there be a damme or beam put ouertwhart; then it makes a swelling, and a roaring, neither by any means will be quiet: So man's Sinful life doth pass quietly without any noise, till the beam of God's justice ouertwhat him.

19 As a round bowle, thrown down a steep hill, never ceaseth or stayeth, till it come to the foot & bottom thereof: So likewise man's corruption, of it self (as prone to Sin, as a bowle to run down a hill) never ceaseth to sin, till it receive the reward thereof, which is death. Rom. 6.23.

20 As Gun-powder, and a rotten tree fired at the root, never ceaseth burning till they be all consumed: So the wicked will never give over their Sinning, till all hope of eternal life be utterly taken away.

21 As Tinder catcheth the least spark, and is kindled thereby: So likewise out corrupt nature, is easily provoked and drawn to Sin.

22 As the Viper conceaueth her young to her own death: So also man admitteth Sin into his heart, but to his own great hurt.

23 Like as the Midwife is busy about a woman in travail, to bring forth the child into the world: So busy also is Satan, until he hath brought forth the monstrous birth of Sin in men's conversations.

24. As huge as the Sea is, yet one may taste the faltnesse of it in a drop: So likewise in one Sin, we may see how ill favored the rest be. Rom. 13.13.

25 As the forbidden nee, when it promised our parents knowledge, took their knowledge from them: So every Sin giveth other wages then it promiseth. Gene. 3.6.

26 Like as if a man pass by some high dangerous place, in the night when he cannot see, he is not afraid, but if ye bring him back again in the day, and let him see what a steep and dangerous way he came, he will not be brought the same way again for anything: So it is in Sinning, for men living in ignorance and blindness, practice any wickedness, and do not care for God's judgments; but when God of his goodness bringeth them back, and openeth their eyes to see the downfall to the pit of Hell, and the judgments of God due to their Sins; then (say they) they will never Sin as they have done, but become new men, and walk in the way to eternal life.

27 As it is the nature of a Canker, or Gangreene, to run from one joint to another, from toe to the foot, from the foot to the leg, from the leg to the thigh, till it have wasted and destroyed the life of the body: Even so, we give Sin but an entrance, it will soon over if spread the whole man; and if the devil may be suffered, but to put one talent in our hearts, he will presently wind himself into us, his head, his body and all.

28 As men which work in mynes, and coal-pits, under the earth, are troubled with nothing so much as with damps, which make their candle burn dark; and sometimes put it quite out: Even so every man's Sins are the damps of his heart; which when they take place, do dim the light of his judgment, and cast a myst over his mind, and darken his understanding and reason.

29 Like as if a man should commit such an heinous offense, as that he could no other way escape death, but by the Princes pardon; he neither would nor could be at rest, til by one means or other he had obtained the same, and had gotten it written and sealed; which done, he would carry it home, lock it up safe and sound, and many times look upon it with great joy and gladness: Even so, such is the case of everyone of us; by nature we are rebels and traitors against God, and have by our Sins deserved ten thousand deaths; now our only stay and refuge is; that Christ the Son of God was condemned for us, and therefore in Christ we must sue for pardon at God's hands, and never rest till we have the assurance thereof sealed up in our hearts and consciences; always remembering, that ever after we lead a new life, and never commit the like Sins against God anymore.

30 Like as if a man should be so far in debt that he could not be freed, unless the surety should be cast into prison for his sake; nay, which is more, be cruelly put to death for his debt, it would make him at his wits end, and his very heart to bleed: So likewise is the case with us, by reason of our Sins; we are God's debtors, yea bankrupts before him, yet have we gotten a good surety, even the Son of God himself, who to recover us to our former liberty, was crucified for the discharge of our debt. Math. 18.23. &c. Ezech. 12.10.

31 As the Iuie by little and little creepeth upon the Oke, till at the last he doth over-grow and destroy the Oke: So likewise doth Sin by little and little get up, and get the strongest, and mightiest men sometimes under him; as it did Solomon, and David, and Peter, and diverse others, for all their wisdom, and learning, and judgment, and experience, which they had both of themselves, and of the world.

32 As a little Leaven soureth the whole lump of dow; Or as a little fire, whereof but one spark is sufficient to kindle a great fire, and to burn down a whole City: Or as a tree, whose stubbes remaining in the ground, are enough to give one a fall: Or as Jezebel that painted harlot, whose very remnants, as the schull of her head, and the plames of her hands, must be buried, least they infect the air: Or as a Mote in the Sun is but a little thing, and yet enough to hinder the sight, to pain the eye, and to trouble the whole body: Or a hair is but a little thing, yet enough to stiffle a man: Or as the flies of Egypt were but little things, yet none of the least plagues: Or as the lice were less thē the flies, yet one of the greatest plagues, that came unto Egypt: Even so, such be our Sins, which we call little Sins, and the Papists call venial Sins, that may be washed away with a little holy water, &c. we count them little and nothing, and not to be stood upon, nor once to be touched; but in time we may prove them, to be the greatest plagues that will trouble us, if securely and rashly we venture upon them. 2. King. 9.30. &c. Exod. 8.16, 21.

33 As a moth-eaten garment, and worm-eaten wood, hath no more use, but to be cast away, the one to the dūghill, the other to the fire: Even so no more use with God, hath a soul mouth-eaten, and worm-eaten with Sin, but to be cast out of God's presence into the fire.

34 As we are loath to have our wounds often grated upon, and cannot well away to have our soars rifled, seared, lanced; but rather covet to have them fed with healing salve: So likewise we are hardly brought to have our consciences ground, or our Sins ransacked, sifted, searched, and ripped up; but rather we could wish to have them playstered with sweet promises, and bathed in the mercies of God.

35 As it is far safer before incarnatiue and healing medicines, to use corosiue and mundifying waters, without which, though some sores may seem to close and skin up apace, yet they prove worse, and be rotten still at the coare; they have above a thin skin, and underneath rotten flesh: So in like manner, we would cloak, hide, and cover our Sins, as it were with a Curtain; but it is more sound Chirurgerie and divinity, to have our consciences pricked, and pierced with the burning iron of the Law; and so to cleanse the wound of our soul, by sharp threatening, least that skin being pulled over the conscience for a while, we lament the rotten corruption, which remains uncured underneath, and so we be constrained to cry out of our Sins openly.

36 As it is a folly, then to dissemble our soars, whilst they be curable, and after to make them known, when they be incurable: Even so it is a great folly to dissemble our Sins, whilst they may be remedied; and so after to be constrained to blaze them all abroad, when they are remediless.

37 As wild beasts, who so long as they are sleeping, stir not, but being awaked, they fly in a man's face, and rend out his throat: Even so in like manner, the Sins which a man committeth, lies at the door of his heart, though he feel them not; and if he do not prevent the danger by speedy repentance, God will make him to feel them once before he die; and raise up such terrors in his conscience, that he shall think himself to be in hell, before he be in hell; and therefore it is good for every man to take heed how he continues an enemy to Christ. Gene. 4.7.

38 As men may be too careful in seeking after Physicians, to remove the diseases of their bodies: So may they be too too careless in seeking after Christ, to remove the Sins of their souls.

39 As the body is soon hurt with wounds, but it is not cured but with much grief and torments: So the soul is soon wounded with Sin, but it is not so soon or easily healed.

40 Like as it is easier for one to hold a stone, whilst he hath it, then to recover it when it is fallen out of his hand: So it is easier to prevent and eschew Sin, then to recall or hide it once committed.

41 As in a Well, except there be some water in it, we cannot easily see the baggage that lieth in the bottom: So in the depth of the heart, without tears we cannot see our Sins; for the lesser our sorrows are, the greater are our Sins.

42 As he that waxeth pale, and is afraid of the hissing and biting of a Viper, and doth run to the Physician: Even so much more is filthy Sin, to be abhorred and feared, which hath worser poison then all Vipers, and much more sooner ought medicines, and a remedy to be sought for it.

43 As when we walk and live according to God's word, and in his fear, we go to God, to heaven, and to everlasting life: So by Sinning, in lieu of going forward, we slip back and draw towards death.

44 As he that flieth from his enemies that pursueth him, in lieu of saving: himself in some town, turneth back towards them, and so putteth himself into their hands: Even so we cannot turn back; that is to say, offend God, but with this condition, that we shall fall into ruin, and everlasting perdition.

45 As he which is fallen into a deep Cave, cannot so easily get out, as he fell in: So it is easy to Sin, but not so easy to be rid of it again.

46 As we are all angry with Adam, because he obeyed his wife rather then God: So we must be angry with our selves for our Sins, in that we study to obey and please our flesh and men, more then God.

47 As God did allow the good things, and ever had somewhat to say, for the evil that he found in the seven Churches: So will his majesty reckon with us, for all our Sins, not only of omission, but commission, although he do find some, yea many good things amongst us. Reve. 2. 1. &c.

48 As he who taketh a taste of Honie, is easily drawn on by sweetness of it, to eat of it to his great hurt: So the pleasure of Sin being once felt and enjoyed, will not afterwards be easily rejected and contemned.

49 As the Merchant venturer, having received a great loss by Sea; or the Soldier a great wound in battle, often become desperate, and careless of their own estate: So in like manner, a Christian by committing some grievous Sin, is brought to this pass, that he layeth aside the care and study of holiness, and letteth all go at six and seven.

50 As one having a weak constitution of body, being in safety, and as we say out of gunshot, is liker to live, then the strongest man being in battle in the midst of his enemies: Even so a weak man being out of temptation, and avoiding occasions of Sin, is liker to stand, then he who rashly rusheth upon the pikes, and hath many occasions of sinning; although in his mind, affection, and purpose, he do more abhor from Sin, and so have a greater measure of the contrary grace, then the other.

51 Even as men do most fortify by Art, those places of their Towns and Cities, which are weakest by nature; and flock thither a pace to defend, where they see the enemy most busy in assaulting: So the care in avoiding Sin, by considering the nature & effects of it, and by eschewing the occasions of it, ought to be exercised chiefly in regard of those sins; and the occasions of them, where unto we know our selves naturally inclined, to the which we are oftnest tempted, and have oftnest yielded.

52 As that City, which is continually besieged and assaulted, cannot but be taken at length, at one time or other; as they who have the care and defense of it committed unto them, cannot but sometimes remit of their diligence, and be overtaken with sleep, drink, forgetfulness, fair promises & pretenses, or by some such means: So where the corruption of Sin, is continually working in the heart, it cannot be, but that it should at one place or other, upon one occasion or temptation or other, burst forth into open Sin.

53 As a most naughty Roote, being not plucked up out of the ground, doth continually grow, and bud more and more: Even so Sin, when we chearish it, doth get daily new strength unto it, until a monstrous flood of Sins have overcome us.

54 Like as when one man standeth bound to another for the performance of diverse covenants, if he break but one, yet he forfaiteth his bond; but if he break two, three, or moe of the covenants, then is not only his bond forfeited, but also the Law hath more force and vauntage against him, to condemn him: Or as he that standeth bound to another, for the payment of a piece of money at a certain day, and breaketh his day, is yet nevertheless still indebted, although the Creditor do not straightway sue his bond, but of good will forbeareth him for a time: Even so by every Sin, we increase our debt to God, for if we break one title of God's Law, and fail in one point, we are guilty of all, and have forfaited our Obligation; but if we of purpose, and willingly, heap Sin upon Sin, and as it were make an Art of sinning, our cōdamnation shall then be the greater. And although the Lord in his mercy forbeareth for a time, to take punishment of us for our Sins, to the end to move us to repentance, yet stand we still debtors unto him, and are to yield an account for the same, at his good pleasure. I am. 2.10. Deut. 28.58. Rom. 2.4.

55 As that Steward, that doth spend and wast his masters substance, without regard, and never looketh to his debt book; the body of such a one is commonly laid in prison: Even so he that never trieth himself by the Law of God, neither in the first nor second Table, shall be placed there (as Christ saith) where the worm dieth not, where shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth; for by every Sin and transgression, we do increase our debts, which God will request of us, except we crave of him with a lively faith, pardon of them. Mar. 9.44, 46. Math. 22.13. Reve. 19.20.

Sacramental sign.

1 AS the word is all one to the evil as to the good: So the Sacramental signs, be common as well to the evil as to the godly; but yet neither the one part, or the other, doth help anything at all, to such as are void of faith.

2 As men bind themselves in Obligations, putting too their hands and seals, so as they cannot go back: Even so, when God commands us, to receive Sacramental signs in faith, and withal, promiseth to the receivers, to give the thing signified; he binds himself, as it were in bond unto us, to stand to his own word.

Sin which is committed of frailty, differeth from Apostasy, and backsliding.

LIke as it is one thing, to ray a bodies feet after they be washed; and another matter to go tumble all the body again in filth and mire like Swine: Or as it is not all a like, when a woman doth sometime offend hir Husband, as when she breaketh her faith and bond of wedlock, and setteth her self quite out from all the honest knot of wedlock: Even so it is one thing simply to Sin, which the children of God also do; and another matter, utterly to fall and run back from the grace of God, and to mock and crucify Christ a new, which the reprobate do, and not the elect. John. 1.8, 10. & 2.1. Hebr. 6.4, 5, 6. & 10.26.

A Sacraments are witnesses of the truth.

LIke as the chief end of Sacraments is this, that they are testimonies to confirm the truth, by which the Lord in his Church, even visibly doth testify, that the things now uttered by preaching of the Gospel, and by the promises assured to the faithful, from the beginning of the world, are in every point so brought to pass, and are so certainly true, as they are declared, and promised in the word of truth: Even so Baptism is the heavenly and public witness of the Church of Christ, whereby the Lord testifieth that it is he which receiveth men freely into favor, and which cleanseth from all blemishes, and to be short, maketh us partakers & heirs of all his goodness.

Schools.

1 AS a man that hath diverse Orchards, will also have a Semenarie full of young plants to maintain it: Even so Schools, which are as Seminaries to God's Church, without which the Church fails to decay, ought to be maintained; because they serve to make supply of Ministers.

2 As training makes Dogs fit for hunting: So Schools and learning, makes nature profitable.

The holy Scripture above the Church.

1 AS the Sun is clear and bright, not because that men do judge it to be so, but rather men do judge it to be so, because it is so indeed, and can judge of it none otherwise: Even so the holy Scriptures, contained in the canonical books of the old and New Testament, are the infallible word of the living God; not because the Church doth judge and allow it to be so, but rather the true Catholic Church, doth judge and allow it to be so, because that it is so indeed: & can judge of it none otherwise; no more then the clear and bright eyes, can judge of the light and brightness of the Sun; of the which the blind can give no judgment; even as the unfaithful and reprobate, can give no judgment of the word of God, nor yet allow it.

2 As the Laws of Princes ruling by Justice, ought to be received, professed, and practiced of all their subjects: Even so much more the Church ought to be governed by the Laws of Christ, her Lord and King.

3 As the Laws and ordinances given by Moses, who was but a servant; might not be abrogate, chopped, or changed of any mortal creature, without the displeasure of the Almighty: Even so, much less, those Laws and ordinances of the Lord Jesus, being the chief Lord and ruler over all. Deut. 27.26. Gal. 3.10. John. 10.4, 5. & 16.13, 14.

Schoolmaster.

1 AS it is the part of a good Husband, to understand the nature and fertility of the ground, which he doth till: So it is the part of a good Schoolmaster, to discern the disposition and nature of his Scholar.

2 As Prometheus did make marvelous Images, such as none other ever could: So a wise, discreet and learned Schoolmaster, prepares to a child of an excellent wit, that which an ignorant and unlearned Master utterly destroyeth.

Scholar.

1 AS if Appelles should see the form of Venus, or Protogenes, the Image of Hialisus, all with mire and dirt defiled, they would no doubt be sorry: So if a man see his Scholar, whom he hath brought up, now inclined and given to lewdness, he cannot choose but greatly lament.

2 As there be some women that cannot conceive of some men, yet accompanying with others, they are become fruitful, for the increase of children: So there be some Scholars, that be unapt to learn under some Tutors, & Schoolemaisters, but under others, they will soon prove of a good quick wit, and learned.

3 As the goodness of the ground, is not much profitable for Corn, unless there be a meet husbandman to till and sow the same: So it is not enough to find good towardness in a Scholar, unless there be added unto him, a meet Schoolmaster to further the same.

4 As a drop of water falling from the house Eaues, weareth and holloweth the hard stone; not by force, but by his often falling: Even so a Scholar proveth learned, not by power or strength, but by much diligence, and great reading.

5 As Appelles became an excellent Painter, because there was never a day, but he labored himself to some learning: So in like manner, a diligent Scholar, by daily applying of his learning, and often exercising of virtue, attaineth to perfect honor and virtue.

6 As young men, which have bestowed their time in laboring for learning and knowledge, happily are apt and prone to come to great honor and preferment: So contrariwise, those Scholars which are given to their own sensuality and appetite, are to be avoided of all good men.