The militant chvrch trivmphant over the dragon and his angels presented in a sermon preached to both Houses of Parliament assembled on Friday the 21. of July, 1643 : being an extraordinary day of publikhumiliation appointed by them throughout London and Westminster : that every one might bitterly bewaile his own sins and cry mightily unto God for Christ his sake to remove his wrath and heale the land / By Tho. Hill... Hill, Thomas, d. 1653. This text is an enriched version of the TCP digital transcription A43817 of text R16004 in the English Short Title Catalog (Wing H2024). Textual changes and metadata enrichments aim at making the text more computationally tractable, easier to read, and suitable for network-based collaborative curation by amateur and professional end users from many walks of life. The text has been tokenized and linguistically annotated with MorphAdorner. The annotation includes standard spellings that support the display of a text in a standardized format that preserves archaic forms ('loveth', 'seekest'). Textual changes aim at restoring the text the author or stationer meant to publish. This text has not been fully proofread Approx. 80 KB of XML-encoded text transcribed from 19 1-bit group-IV TIFF page images. EarlyPrint Project Evanston,IL, Notre Dame, IN, St. Louis, MO 2017 A43817 Wing H2024 ESTC R16004 12037005 ocm 12037005 52896 This keyboarded and encoded edition of the work described above is co-owned by the institutions providing financial support to the Early English Books Online Text Creation Partnership. This Phase I text is available for reuse, according to the terms of Creative Commons 0 1.0 Universal . The text can be copied, modified, distributed and performed, even for commercial purposes, all without asking permission. Early English books online. (EEBO-TCP ; phase 1, no. A43817) Transcribed from: (Early English Books Online ; image set 52896) Images scanned from microfilm: (Early English books, 1641-1700 ; 239:E64, no 1) The militant chvrch trivmphant over the dragon and his angels presented in a sermon preached to both Houses of Parliament assembled on Friday the 21. of July, 1643 : being an extraordinary day of publikhumiliation appointed by them throughout London and Westminster : that every one might bitterly bewaile his own sins and cry mightily unto God for Christ his sake to remove his wrath and heale the land / By Tho. Hill... Hill, Thomas, d. 1653. [8], 31 p. Printed for John Bellamie and Ralph Smith..., London : 1643. Reproduction of original in Thomason Collection, British Library. eng Bible. -- N.T. -- Revelation XXII, 11 -- Sermons. Fast-day sermons. A43817 R16004 (Wing H2024). civilwar no The militant church, triumphant over the dragon and his angels. Presented in a sermon, preached to both Houses of Parliament assembled on Fr Hill, Thomas 1643 13321 40 45 0 0 1 0 71 D The rate of 71 defects per 10,000 words puts this text in the D category of texts with between 35 and 100 defects per 10,000 words. 2005-03 TCP Assigned for keying and markup 2005-05 SPi Global Keyed and coded from ProQuest page images 2005-06 Haley Pierson Sampled and proofread 2005-06 Haley Pierson Text and markup reviewed and edited 2005-10 pfs Batch review (QC) and XML conversion Die Jovis 27. Julii , 1643. IT is this day Ordered by the Lords in Parliament , that Master Hill hath hereby thanks given him from their Lordships , for the great paines taken by him in his Sermon he made in Saint Margarets Church Westminster before the Lords and Commons on Friday the 21. of this instant July , at the publike Humiliation ; And he is hereby desired to cause his said Sermon to be forthwith Printed and Published . John Browne Cleric . Parliamen . Die Veneris 21. Julii , 1643. IT is this day Ordered by the House of Commons , that Mr. Salloway doe give thanks to Mr. Hill , who at the desire of the House this day Preached before the Commons at St. Margarets , Westminster , it being an extraordinary day of Publique humiliation , and that he be desired to Print his Sermon . And it is Ordered that no man shall Print his Sermon , but whom the said Mr. Hill shall Authorize under his hand-writing . H. Elsynge Cler. Parl. D. Com. I appoint John Bellamie and Ralph Smith to Print my Sermon . THO. HILL . THE MILITANT CHVRCH , TRIVMPHANT OVER THE DRAGON AND HIS ANGELS . Presented in a SERMON , Preached to both Houses of Parliament assembled on Friday the 21. of July , 1643. BEING An extraordinary day of publik Humiliation appointed by them , throughout London and Westminster , that every one might bitterly bewaile his own sins , and cry mightily unto God for Christ his sake , to remove his wrath , and heale the Land . By THO. HILL , B. D. sometimes Fellow of Emman . Coll. in Cambridge , and now Pastor at Tychmersh in the County of Northampton . Published by Order of both Houses of Parliament . In their affliction they will seeke me early . Hos. 5.15 . I said not unto the seede of Jacob , Seeke yee me in vaine . Isa. 45.19 . I said I would scatter them into corners , I would make the remembrance of them to cease from among men , were it not that I feared the wrath of the enemy . Deut. 32.26 , 27. LONDON , Printed for John Bellamie and Ralph Smith , and are to be sold at their shop , at the three golden Lions in Cornhill neare the royall Exchange . 1643. TO THE RIGHT HONORABLE THE HOVSE OF LORDS , AND THE HONORABLE HOVSE OF COMMONS Assembled in PARLIAMENT . I Never delighted in Pulpit Apologies , else I might have prefaced with an excuse from the extreame shortnesse of the warning to performe this solemne service . Your Christian attention in hearing , and candide acceptance of my meane endeavours , hath now likewise prevented my Apologizing Epistle . Let rather my pen second my tongue in provoking you and my selfe to blesse the Lord , who invites poore sinners to seeke to him in the day of trouble . Now ( will blasphemers say ) they are glad to runne to their prayers , we are indeed ; desiring humbly to rejoyce that we have such precious promises , sealed with the bloud of such a Mediator , in whose Name we may boldly seeke our heavenly Fathers face , even when he hath a rod , a sword in his hand . We would shame our selves for our many sinnes , and justifie God who is glorious in holinesse , in all the judgements that lie upon us . If this be to be vile , we will with David ( when Gods hand cals for it ) be more vile then thus . Let stupid Atheists take that portion , Isa. 26.11 . Lord when thy hand is lifted up , they will not see , but they shall see and be ashamed for their envie toward thy people . If God stile himselfe a God hearing prayers , good reason we should runne unto him as a people making prayers . Let us now therefore approve our selves Christians indeed , not multiply groundlesse jealousies , which are almost as troublesome in the State as unsound opinions in the Church , not quarrell discontentedly with the defects of second causes , but meekly improve the hand whereby the first cause disposes all events . Nothing comes to passe in time , but what was decreed from Eternity . If a few Sparrowes cannot fall to the ground , then surely Armies , Cities , Countries , cannot be lost without his providence . If he condescend to number his childrens haires , then certainely much more their heads . He who hath a bottle for their teares , a booke of remembrance for their words and thoughts upon his Name , will not forget his owne promises unto them : but when discriminating times come , then shall ye returne and discerne between the righteous and the wicked , betweene him that serveth God , and him that serveth him not . There are now many veines opened in England , it is in the body Politick , as in the Naturall , much bad bloud cannot be let out , but we shall lose some good . The Lord of Hoasts hath purposed to staine the pride of all our glory . Much honourable bloud hath beene shed amongst us since these sad troubles began . When the judgement comes by Famine or Pestilence , ordinarily most great persons escape , the vulgar sort of people fall by such Arrowes . God hath now sent a sword , which hath done execution upon divers of our Nobles , and many of our Gentry . The good Lord helpe you ▪ and all whom it most concernes , to heare what this rod , this sword saith , and who hath appointed it . We all acknowledge it was drawne for the sinnes of this Nation ; and will it be sheathed againe without repentance ? It was a strange prophesie of Robert Grosthead , that great Bishop of Lincolne in H. 3. time , who prying much into the abominations and spirit of Popery , said a little before his death , The Church shall not be delivered from the servitude of Egypt , but by violence and force , and with the bloudy sword . We have found this too true as well as other Churches . Is there not a generation amongst us , who , rather then they will have Christ raigne over them , rather then Doctrine , Worship , Government , and Discipline , should be reduced to the simplicity that is in Christ , will hazzard King and Kingdomes , involving one after another in bloudy troubles . Me thinkes we may heare groaning England speaking the language of the woman of Tekoah , 2 Sam. 14.4 . Helpe O King , and upon her ground ; her two sonnes strove together in the field , and there was none to part them , but the one smote the other and slew him , v. 6. It will be your High Honour ( O Noble Worthies ) to be so faithfull to your Saviour , and to your Soveraigne , as to put hereunto your helping Heads and Hearts , Counsels and Prayers . When God suffered his Church to be brought very low , to be a flocke of slaughter , yet then he took unto him two staves , the one he called Beauty , and the other he called Bands , and he fed the flock . Be pleased to improve your utmost now as good followers of the Lambe . Call for the helpe of the Reverend Assembly , who will study to advise you according to the Testimony of Jesus . Church-Reformation may prove a compendious way to compose State-commotions ; Hereby poore distracted England may yet finde two supporting Staves , Beauty and Bands , a Beautifull union established in Church and State . The Lord delight to imploy you to these happy purposes ; so shall our mourning be turned into Hallelujahs . Your Honours to serve You faithfully , for the honour of the Lambe . THOMAS HILL . Errata . PAge 18. line 11. for puls read puts , pag. 23. l. 5. and all maintaine r. and all to maintaine , pag. 23. l. 19. for Papists read pupils . THE MILITANT CHVRCH , TRIUMPHANT OVER THE DRAGON AND HIS ANGELS . REV. 12.11 . And they over-came him by the blood of the Lambe , and by the word of their testimony ; and they loved not their lives unto the death . THEY who study the Providence of God , about his people , will finde all his dispensations towards them full of Wisdome and Love . If being provoked by their sinnes , he let loose Oppressours amongst them , withall he provides Saviours for them ; even when they feele a smarting rod , they may see it in the hand of an indulgent Father ; so sweetely is he pleased to intermingle refreshings with troubles , and to put some Sugar into their bitterest potions . Thus kindly dealt he with his Ancient People , stirring up Ezekiel and Daniel , whom he sent captives with them , to be their comforters in that darke captivity : and thus tenderly dealt he with the Christian Churches , when John and they were under persecution , revealing such rich secrets unto them by him , as might strongly support them , and all suffering Saints , under the most bloody troubles that should succeed . This is the very tenour of this Propheticall History , and Historicall Prophesie , the Revelation of Christ to John : intending doubtlesse by him to send unto the conflicting Churches , such a standing and Soveraigne cordiall as might cheere them , when they were at the lowest , with hope of triumphing over their most potent adversaries . And is it not pity , any Christians should have this cordiall with-held from them , for whom it was by God himselfe provided ? If Christ say , Rev. 1.3 . Blessed is he that readeth , and they that heare the words of this Prophesie ; why should any under pretence of difficulty , fondly imitate and exceed the superstition of the Jewes , who permitted none to reade the beginning of Genesis , Canticles , the beginning and end of Ezekiel , before thirty yeares of age ; but , ours , the Booke of the Revelation publickely scarse at all ? Admit it be true , that in this Booke , Quot verba , tot sacramenta , as many mysteries as words ; this may awaken study , and quicken prayer , but not take off our inquiry into these secrets intended for us . But though Prophesies may be aenigmata , riddles to others before they be fulfilled ; wee have the advantage of many events and accomplishments to be our Interpreters . Yea , we have reason to hope , most of the bitter passages concerning the Churches of Christ , are already fulfilled ; that there is much Sugar at the bottome reserved for these last ages , which may animate us to seeke ( with all humble sobriety ) a revelation of the Revelation . And that which may embolden us to looke for more glorious victories hereafter , we finde in this 12 ▪ Chapter of the Revelation , even the infant Primitive Church becomming triumphant , when opposed by the fiercest of those heathenish Emperours . In the six first Verses , Gods dealings with the old Israelites , and with the Primitive Christians seeme to run parallel . They for a time were in the Egyptian bondage under Pharaoh , who sought to devoure them . At last , Gods mighty hand brought them out into the wildernesse , where though unsetled for a while , yet he preserved and fed them graciously , and at the last brought them into Canaan . Thus did the Lord dispense himselfe towards his Church , who is represented v. 1. as a Woman clothed with the Sunne . Chr●sts spouse is made glorious by his beames , who is the Sunne of Righteousnesse . This Woman is travailing with Christ mysticall , under sharpe throwes and pangs of persecutions , for three hundred yeares together , v. 2. and all this while the red Dragon , like a bloody Pharaoh , stood ●efore the Woman which was ready to be delivered , ●or to devoure her childe as scone as it was bo●ne , v. 3. & 4. Yet she brought forth a Man Childe , v. 5. a Masculine birth , vigorous Christians ; who in Constantines time were caught up to God , and to his Throne , were advanced to beare much sway . Yet when the Church was set at liberty from the oppression of the Heathen , she fled into the Wildernesse , v. 6. where she had a place prepared of God , that they should feed her there one thousand two hundred and threescore dayes , Propheticall dayes , ( i. e. ) so many yeares . It pleaseth God to keepe us in the darke for the punctuall beginning of these dayes , as he did his people about the beginning of the Babylonish captivity . It was easily knowne it should continue but 70. yeares , yet there being three steps of it , one in the dayes of Jehoiakim , a second in the dayes of Jechonias , a third under Zedekiah , it was very hard , without speciall direction , where to fasten that beginning , which should terminate the 70. yeares . We may be confident the Christian Church shall be in the Wildernesse but one thousand two hundred and threescore yeares : and had we so much divine Wisdome , as to know exactly where to beginne to reckon them , wee might speake more than conjecturally of the time of the Churches deliverance . In the five following verses you have a more full amplification of this story from severall passages and circumstances . First , The Wars betwixt Michael and the Dragon ; Christ and the Devill ; and their Angels on both sides , v. 7. Secondly , The issue ; The Dragon and his Angels prevailed not ; but was cast out , and his Angels with him , v. 8 , 9. The Devill was cast downe from that open rule , he had under Heathen Emperours . Thirdly , The Churches acknowledgement of her successe , v. 10. Fourthly , The meanes by which the Devill and his party were conquered , v. 11. 1. Principall , by the blood of the Lambe . 2. Organicall , which is twofold . First , By the word of their Testimony ; Herein they were sincerely active . Secondly , They loved not their lives unto death ; Herein 〈◊〉 were resolutely passive . Here you have first , not onely Christ himselfe overcomming , but also his Angels ▪ as he engages his people in the conflict , so he allowes them to share in the honour of the victory , They overcame . Yet secondly , so as Christ is chiefely acknowledged : The Crown is first set upon the Captaines head , their overcomming was by the blood of the Lambe . Thirdly , Something his Souldiers contribute : though the Devils Angels may carry on their designes by lyes , equivocations , reservations for a time ; yet in conclusion , are conquered by the word of their Testimony , and that especially when it is held forth , by a zealous selfe-deniall ; And they loved not their lives unto death . These foure Generals , as they lie in the words , will afford us foure naturall Observations , flowing from them . In the Warre betwixt Michael and the Dragon , and their object 1 Angels , though the true Church be Militant for a time , yet it proves victorious and triumphant . In the field of the Church behold two potent Armies , under two Generals , Michael and the Dragon ▪ Michael , Quis sicut Deus ? Christ Jesus that great and powerfull Captaine of the Hoast of God , Head of the Angels and his Church : The Dragon , who hath many blacke names , sutable unto his nature , v. 9. A great Dragon , for his terrible fiercenesse ; an old Serpent , growne experimentally subtle ; the Devill , being an accuser of the Brethren before God day and night ; Satan , an implacable adversary to the Saints , a Seducer ; it is his trade to be mis-leading Soules . Both Generals have their party . Christ hath his Angels , ministring Spirits , and Christian Princes , Magistrates , Confessours , with troopes of Saints . The Devill hath his Angels ; unrighteous Magistrates , exasperated by Heretiques and corrupt Teachers , and strengthened by other wicked instruments . Betwixt these 〈◊〉 parties there will be irreco●ciliable warres ; for albeit the personal sufferings of Christ are ended , yet the warfare of his body , of his Subjects will continue . God hath appointed them thereunto , 1 Thess. 3.3 . And upon these termes , Christ proposeth glorious rewards in the closure of all the Epistles written to the seven Churches : {non-Roman} {non-Roman} {non-Roman} {non-Roman} {non-Roman} , to him that is over-comming will I give , not to him who hath fully overcome ; implying the Churches must be militant : but however though their conflict be troublesome , yet their victory will be glorious and certaine , Rev. 3.21 . To him that overcomes will I grant to sit with me in my Throne , even as I also overcame , and am sate downe with my Father in his Throne . The Romish Babel , the Master-piece of carnall policy , built and underpropped with all possible care ; and is indeed the greatest mountaine raised against Michael , and his Kingdome ; yet how tri●mphantly did the Angell speake concerning its ruine long agoe , Rev. 18.2 . He cryed mightily with a strong voyce , saying , Babylon the great is falne , is falne ? the ingemination and present tense , inferre an undoubted certainety of its falling . reason 1 The cause of the true Church is a prevailing cause , and therefore doubtlesse the Church will be triumphant . What is the Churches cause , but the advancement of the Kingdome of Christ , which was the great designe of the three glorious Persons in Trinity from eternity , wherein they will not suffer themselves to be disappointed ! Upon this divine Project , the Attributes of God , the Offices of Christ , the Influences of the holy Spirit , lay out themselves . All other things stand or fall with subserviency hereunto . In reference to this the Lord appointed Watchmen , that might give him no rest , till Jerusalem was made a praise in the earth Isa. 62.6 , 7. This is clearely revealed twice in the Booke of Daniel ; first to Nebuchadnezzar , in a glorious image of foure metals , Dan. 2. signifying the foure great Monarchies succeeding one another ; who also saw a stone cut out without hands , v. 34. which smote the image , and became a great Mountaine , and filled the whole earth , v. 35. This Regnum lapidis became Regnum montis , which alone shall never be destroyed , v. 44. And to Daniel himselfe in a vision of foure diverse beasts , importing likewise the succession of foure Kingdomes , all swallowed up in the everlasting dominion of Christ , Dan. 7.13 , 14. The name of the Almighty Jehovah , is so much interested reason 2 in the cause of the true Church , that he will carry it on in a triumphing way . Having given himselfe to his Church in Covenant , Jer. 31.33 . I will be their God , and they shall be my People ; what God is , and what God can doe , stands engaged for their good . Feare not , for thy Maker is thy Husband , the Lord of Hoasts is his Name . He is pleased to make himselfe his Churches debter , by his promise , Isa. 60. ●5 . Whereas thou hast been forsaken and hated , I will make thee an eternall excellency , the joy of many generations . Possibly the wisest Parliament , and most potent Army may be reduced unto a non-plus , and cannot visibly carry on the cause and Kingdome of Christ , yet the worke will not miscarry ; The zeale of the Lord of Hoasts will performe this , Isa. 9.7 . The true Churches Adversaries are the worst of Angels and men ; and so the more obnoxious to destruction . The reason 3 worse men , the better adversaries to fight against , Job 27.7 Let my enemy be as the wicked , and he that riseth up against me , as the unrighteous . The more by their wickednesse they fight against God , the more they provoke him to fight against them ; and admit the Church hath a great party against her , if they be the sinning side , they are the sinking side , 1 Sam. 12.25 . The Church was the more victorious against Babylon , because Babylon was so sinfull against God , Rev. 14.8 . Babylon is falne , is falne , that great City , because she made all Nations drinke of the wine of the wrath of her fornication . Shall the Militant Church be Triumphant over the Dragon and his Angels ? Then Christs Souldiers have no reason to repent , who have given up their Names unto him , and taken presse money from him : His side will be the prevailing side ; and who doth not adore the rising Sunne ? ●is people may suffer , but when the Lord hath performed his worke upon Mount Zion , and on Jerusalem , I will punish the fruit of the stout heart of the King of Assyria , and the glory of his high lookes , Isa. 10.12 . When God hath wrought for his people the good which he intended , he is wont to cast the rod into the fire . He knowes how to make his people more then Conquerours , even when they are conquered by their enemies , Rom. 8.37 . The Lord hath a Soveraignty as well in the lusts and passions of his adversaries , as in the graces of his people , Psal. 76.10 . Surely the wrath of man shall praise thee , the remainder thereof shalt thou restraine . By his providence the enemies plots doe prove the Churches advantages . The most glorious deliverance and reformation have beene the happy event of most wretched designes . As there was a blessed transaction in Heaven betweene the Father and the Sonne for the salvation of the Elect , Joh. 6.39 . so is it expressely concluded betwixt them for the confusion of the Churches enemies , Psal. 110 1. The Lord said unto my Lord , Sit thou on my right hand , untill I make thine enemies thy foote-stoole . Christ is not alone in these Warres : the Father is with him , engaging himselfe against the enemies of his Sonne : and will make the highest of them much lower then the meanest of his faithfull Souldiers . Beware then of deserting Christ and his Church by dull Vse 2 neutrality or wilfull apostacy : you cannot be guilty of either against him , without betraying your selves . He accounts neuters his enemies , Matth. 12.30 . He that is not with me is against me : they are cursed bitterly who come not out to helpe the Lord against the mighty . Our policy cannot protect us , if we desert the cause of God and his people ▪ our sins will finde us out , as Moses told the Reubenites and the Gadites upon the like occasion , Numb. 32.20 , 21 , 22 , 23. And as for Apostates from him and his cause , they are no lesse odious unto him ▪ witnesse Heb. 10.38 , 39. If any man draw backe , my soule shall have no pleasure in him . It is our deare Saviours employment in Heaven , as to appeare in the presence of God for his friends , Heb. 9.24 . so to sit downe at the right-hand of God , from hence-forth expecting till his enemies ●e made his footestoole , Heb. 10.12 , 13. He hath now no sacrifice to offer : he is there above suffering , being entred into the fellowship and fruition of the glory of his Godhead , to exercise his power and authority for the good of his Church , and overthrow of his enemies . He sees their day is comming , Psal. 37.13 . when he shall have contentment and comfort in his enemies ruine , triumphantly trampling upon them who shall everlastingly inherit the shame of their owne sinnes , and lie under the pressure of his just displeasure . Be encouraged in these shedding and discriminating Vse 3 times , to take part with the true Church , and to adhere firmly to Jesus Christ and his Angels . Looke about you , as in Joshuah 5.13 . may you not see Jesus Christ comming down from Heaven , with his sword drawn in his hand ? Go to him with Joshua's question , Art thou for us , or for our adversaries ? Will not his answer be ; Nay , but as a Captaine of the Hoast of the Lord am I now come ? Then you must be sure to be of the Lords hoast , or else he is not for you , but for your adversaries . Take therefore Pauls seasonable counsell , 1 Tim. 6.12 . fight the good fight of faith . Such have the best cause ; It is Gods . Such fight the Lords battels , 1 Sam. 25.28 . The best Captaine , Jesus Christ the Captaine of their salvation , Heb. 2.10 . The best fellow-souldiers , Stephen , Paul , and the rest of that holy band ; with certainty of victory , 2 Tim. 4.8 . Henceforth there is laied up for me a crowne of righteousnesse , which the Lord the righteous Judge , shall give me at that day : and not to me onely , but to them also that love his appearing . This is more then the greatest Champions of the world can promise themselves . But may not Christs souldiers be foiled ? Yes : so were the Israelites , when they fought against Benjamin , Judg. 20. yet was the cause holy and good . But what with their over-confidence in the goodnesse of their cause , and greatnesse of their numbers , and want of humiliation before God , they were twice discomfited . Againe , consider the Cause may prevaile , when the persons miscarry ; and grow great out of the ruines of such as suffered for it . Suppose that discouraging question , Whether the witnesses be already slaine , cannot so comfortably be answered , by a peremptory affirmative : Yet , however ; better be one of the witnesses , though dying ; then one of the killers of them , though triumphing . There will be a speedy resurrection of them and the cause , Revel. 11.11 . But remember to allow the Lord his Prerogative , to carry on his Churches cause in his owne method , and in his owne time . See Deut. 32.35 , 36. His enemies feete shall slide in due time though his peoples power be gone . By the bloud of the Lamb . observation 2 The Militant Churches victories over the Devill and his Angels , are obtained by the bloud of the Lambe Jesus Christ . This is clearely held forth in that mother fundamentall promise which was most graciously intimated to fallen Adam , even before the sentence passed upon him , Gen. 3.15 . The Womans seed shall breake the Serpents head . Of this Daniel had comfortable experience when Michael helped him , Dan. 10.13.21 . which is further confirmed , Rev. 17.14 . These shall make warre with the Lamb , and the Lamb shall overcome them , for he is Lord of Lords , and King of Kings . First , by the bloud of the Lamb divine justice is satisfied , God appeased , Rom. 3.25 . and the Church reconciled to him , 2 Cor. 5.19 . Her sinnes being done away which betray her to her enemies , she becomes victorious , sharing reason 1 in the triumph of Christ over the Devill and his Angels , Gol. 2.12 , 13. Secondly , by the bloud of the Lamb we obtaine that reason 2 grace , which enables us prevailingly to resist the Devil and his Angels . For no peeces of the spirituall armour will be armour of proofe , unlesse they be dipped in the bloud of Christ , Rev. 7.14 . And how was Paul enabled to doe all things , but by the might of Christ that strengthned him ? Phil. 4.13 . Whose bloud hath an eternall efficacie , Rev. 13.8 . The Churches victories are therefore ascribed to the reason 3 bloud of the Lamb , because the Oeconomicall Kingdome which Christ hath over his Church is a Priestly Kingdome , which he possesses as the fruit of his bloudy sufferings . For though he were prepared and made capable of his Kingly glory by the hypostaticall union , yet the holy Scriptures invest him with it , as the reward of his sufferings and humiliation . He humbled himselfe , and became obedient unto death , even the death of the crosse ; Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him , and given him a Name which is above every name , That , {non-Roman} {non-Roman} {non-Roman} {non-Roman} {non-Roman} , in the Name of Jesus , ( not , at the Name Jesus ) every knee should bow . And his Church likewise being a royall Priesthood , 1 Pet. 2.9 . conquers through the bloud of her King . use 1 If the Churches victories are obtained by the bloud of the Lamb ; Then , why should not we debase our selves this day before God , for all our vaine confiding in creatures , or magnifying them upon any good successes ? Hereby we proudly encroach upon the honour of Christ , to whose bloud we owe all our Victories . It is fit wee should humble our selves , when God hath humbled us , Eccles. 7.14 . In the day of adversity consider . We must blesse God for good Instruments , but may not admire them to the disparagement of the principall cause . Though ignorant wretches did sacrifice unto their owne net , and burne Incense to their dragge ; this is most unworthy of Christians , who should live by faith in Christ , Gal. 2.20 . not onely pray in faith , but worke , fight by faith , expecting all from Christ , and resolving all into Christ . Improve the hand of God , ( which occasioned this extraordinary Assembly ) for the Prophet Haggai his purpose , To consider your wayes ; or , ( as in the Heb. ) Set your heart upon your wayes , Hag. 1.5.7 . Too many like Hannibal , who though victorious , knew not how uti victoriâ , and so lose themselves in their victories , not acknowledging the bloud of the Lamb therein . The Lord make us more wise for time to come . We may use meanes , but must not rest upon them ; we ought to blesse God for second causes , but must not idolize them . It was a modest strain in Joab , which might make us blush , he sent to David , that he would gather the people together , encamp against the City and take it ; lest I take the City ( said he ) and it be called by my name . Let such as are instrumentall for the publike have all due acknowledgment , but it may cost us yet much dearer , if we baptize any with the name of Conqueror , but onely Jesus , Isa. 9.6 . The government is upon his shoulder , his Name shall be called Wonderfull . Him we may admire to eternity . Oh then take heed of abusing the precious bloud of this use 2 Lambe by your sinnes , lest he prove to you a devouring Lion . This Lambe hath wrath when he is provoked , and who shall be able to stand in the day of his wrath ? Rev. 6.17 . Especially beware of sinning directly against the blood of Christ . That 's a dreadfull thunderbolt against many Professours , when they count the blood of the Covenant , wherewith they were sanctified , an unholy thing , Heb. 10.29 . Though they have not internall sanctification , by renovation of nature , and inhabitation of the Spirit of grace ; yet they have an externall sanctification , by consecration and dedication to Gods Service , by calling and covenant , common to every member of a visible Church , and this by the blood of Christ : but when by their backesliding they shall disavow Christ and his Gospell , they doe interpretativè , in effect say his blood hath no value in it , is no better than the blood of a common malefactour , and so make themselves obnoxious to the sorest punishments . But there is another sinne against the blood of Christ , very dangerous , and more epidemicall , by profaning his holy Sacrament , the memoriall of his blood , 1 Cor. 11.27 , 28. The Lord knowes how deepely guilty many here present are , having their hearts and hands imbrued in the blood of their Saviour . Rivers of teares of blood , are too little to bewaile this one provocation . There is now a most bloody sword drawne in England ; does not the Lord bring it upon us , as to avenge the quarrell of the Covenant ? Lev. 26.25 . So the blood of the Covenant , Heb. 10.25 . Doubtlesse as God will make inquisition for the blood of his Saints , so for the blood of his Sonne , and if now he should search England , as once Jerusalem with candles , Zeph. 1. 12. would not many of our Nobility and Gentry , Magistrates and Ministers , as well as common people , be found guilty of the blood of Christ ? Chrysostome was very sensible of this evill : whereupon he professed , I will rather give my life than the blood of Christ to any unworthy one ; and I will rather suffer my owne blood to be shed , than give that most holy blood to any but him that is worthy . Ambrose expressed the same zeale against this sin in Theodosius . Wilt thou ( faith he to the Emperour ) reach these hands dropping with the blood of Innocents , to receive the most sacred body of the Lord ? wilt thou put that precious blood of his to thy mouth , which in a rage spilt so much Christian blood ? depart rather and heape not one sinne to another . But alas ! how great is our Ministers misery ? we lye under a kinde of necessity of suffering this evill among our people . Our straights are most uncomfortable . First , The Lawes and constitutions of England , require the body of England to come to this Sacrament after sixteen yeares of age ; That they may prove themselves no Papists , they must communicate . Secondly , The Scripture denounceth judgment against them if they eate and drinke unworthily , 1 Cor. 11.29 . Thirdly , Yet Pastours and Churches want that power of the Keyes , whereby they might doe their duty therein . All you who love and follow the Lambe , helpe England by your Prayers , that all old leaven may be purged out , 1 Cor. 5.7 . Ye Members of the Assembly contribute your Counsell with Jehojada , 2 Chron. 23.19 . that such Porters ( such Church Discipline ) may be set at the Gates , that the uncleane enter not in . And improve your power , ye Parliament Worthies , for setting up such spirituall railes in our Churches , such a due order , that Scripture dogges be not suffered , to the hazzarding of their owne soules , and the dishonour of their Saviour , to rush upon these holy things . The third Use is , of Exhortation , in two Branches . branch 1 First , If all the Churches victories be obtained by the blood of the Lambe , then as you desire to prevaile , make peace with Christ . How can we in England expect Hee should fight for us , if we fight against him ▪ It is wise counsell , Psal. 2.11 . for Kings , for Judges , for all , Kisse the Sonne lest he be angry , and ye perish from the way , when his wrath is kindled but a little : not with a treacherous kisse as Judas , but with a kisse of loving loyalty of humble subjection , of peaceable reconciliation . That Question is frequent among us , which J●ram proposed to Jehu , 2 Kings 9.22 . Is it peace ? may not we returne the same answer , What peace so long as whoredomes remaine , and many other abominations ? Jehojada tooke a right method to peace and quietnesse , 2 King. 11.17.18.20 . And Jehojada made a Covenant betweene the Lord and the King , and the people , that they should be the Lords people : betweene the King also and the people . And all the people of the Land went into the house of Baal , and brake it downe , his Altars and his Images brake they in pieces thorowly , and slew Mattan the Priest of Baal , before the Altars ; And the Priest appointed Officers over the House of the Lord . This very place was not long since the valley of Berachah , 2 Chron. 20.26 . here solemne praises for the discovery of most destructive plots . It may now be called a Bochim , as Judg. 2.5 . ( oh that there were more teares among us ! ) we should all appeare before God this day as mourners in sense of his displeasure . If wee would have it a day of atonement ; as Levit. 23.28 . a peace-making day both betweene King and People , and betweene Christ and England , let it be a thorow-reforming day , as v. 18. They brake all Baals altars and images in pieces thorowly . Let every one say , What have I to doe any more with my Idols ? Let it be a day of serious protestation against our sins , and renouncing all those weapons , whereby we have fought against Jesus Christ , then may all the people hope to rejoyce in quietnesse , v. 20. branch 2 Then if you desire to be victorious ▪ appeale from second causes unto Jesus Christ , and the merit of his blood . In all our straights , let us speake Jehoshaphats language , 2 Chron. 20.12 . We know not what to doe , but our eyes are upon thee . It is the observation of a Politician , England is a mighty animall , which can never dye except it kill it selfe . Among our other crying sinnes we are now involving our selves in the guilt of Selfe-murther . Here is an unnaturall sword most unhappily drawne amongst us , as Isa. 9.19 , 20 , 21. Through the wrath of the Lord of Hoasts is the Land darkned , and the people shall be as the fuell of the fire , no man shall spare his brother . He shall snatch on the right hand and be hungry , and he shall eate on the left hand and not be satisfied , they shall eate every man the flesh of his owne arme . Manasseh Ephraim , and Ephraim Manasseh , and both against Judah . For all this his anger is not turned away , but his hand is stretched out still . Fighting or treating can not yet end the controversie , we have importuned the sword to be quiet , as Jer. 47.6 . O thou sword of the Lord , how long will it be ere thou be quiet ? put up thy selfe into thy scabbard ▪ rest , and be still : and as yet England hath received the same answer with Ashkelon , v. . 7. How can it be quiet , seeing the Lord hath given it a charge against Ashkelon , and against the Sea shore ? There hath he appointed it . The Lord hath given it Commission to ride circuite in severall Counties of England ; and who knowes how long ? what now remaines ? we reade Mark . 5.25 . of a certaine Woman which had an issue of blood twelve yeares , and v. 26. had suffered many things of many Physitians , and had spent all that she had , and was nothing bettered , but rather grew worse : could never be healed , till she touched Christ . We are this day in a solemne manner drawing nigh unto Christ . O that our bloody issue might drive us to improve the blood of the Lambe ! Could we fiducially put our selves , our Church and State , our Religion and Liberty , into the hands of our Saviour , who knows but we might have as comfortable an answer , as this woman had , v. 34. Thy faith hath made thee whole , goe in peace and be whole of thy plague . The good Lord vouchsafe an Amen . They overcame by the word of their Testimony . Christs Souldiers carry on the Churches victories , against the observation 3 Devill and his Angels , by the word of their Testimony , by the Gospel of Christ . If you desire to know what is This word of their Testimony , it will appeare v. 17. Christs Souldiers are described to be such as kept the Commandements of God , and have the Testimony of Jesus ; and Rev. 1.9 . John was banished for the Word of God , and for the Testimony of Jesus Christ , which doubtlesse was the Gospell ; And this , not as written in your Bibles onely , and comprized in your Bookes . But having this Gospell of Christ rooted in your hearts by Faith , holding fast the profession thereof without wavering , Heb. 10.23 . Resist the Devill , being stedfast in the Faith , 1 Pet. 5.9 . whereas Heb. 4.2 . The Word Preached did not profit them , not being mixed with Faith in them that heard it . The Gospell will not joyne with corrupt opinions , but with Faith : it will be received not as a conjecture or possible truth , but for a Divine or infallible truth , then it profiteth and strengthneth . Bearing witnesse to the Gospell of Christ , who is the Amen , the faithfull and true witnesse , Rev. 3.14 . Openly with your mouthes , Rom. 10.10 . by Preaching , if Ministers ; So Paul , Rom. 1.16 . He was not ashamed of the Gospell of Christ ; and by confession , which concernes all Christians when called to it for the glory of God , and edification of the Brethren , 1 Pet. 3.15 . Be ready to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you . Be ready {non-Roman} {non-Roman} {non-Roman} {non-Roman} {non-Roman} , be ready to make an Apology for thy Religion . Justifying the Gospell in life and conversation . All wisedomes children should be so ingenuous and mannerly as to justifie Wisdome , Mat. 11.19 . This will be a prevailing Testimony when you walke worthy of the Gospell of Christ . Expresse the Gospell-graces in an active Gospell-conversation . Commending the Gospel by your patient and cheerefull suffering for it . It is a great confirmation of the truth , and puls honour upon it , when Christians will rather suffer for the Gospell , than the Gospell should suffer by them . Our losses in this case will be the Gospels advantage , Phil. 1.12 , 13 , 14. All things which happened unto Paul , were for the furtherance of the Gospell ; by his bonds others waxed confident . Such a good Souldier was Timothy , who , 1 Tim. 6.12 . witnessed a good confession before many Witnesses ; having learned this prevailing method from his Captaine Jesus Christ , who , v. 13. before Pontius Pilate witnessed a good confession . It clearely appeares how the Churches victories are carryed on by the Testimony of the Gospell . reason 1 The strength of the Gospels adversaries lies not in the goodnesse of their cause ; but in the ignorance of peoples minds and meere mistakes thence arising : What is Paganisme , Mahumetanisme , Popery ; but a Rapsody and heape of grosse mistakes raised in the darke ? The Devill uses the same method ordinarily to carry on his designes that he tooke in the Councell of Ariminum . The Arrians having procured the exile of the most worthy and learned Bishops , and perceiving the company that was left , though they were very unlearned , yet would not be perswaded directly to disanull any thing which had beene concluded before in the Councell of Nice , did abuse their ignorance in proposing the matter : for they demanded of them whether they would worship {non-Roman} {non-Roman} {non-Roman} {non-Roman} {non-Roman} or Christ ? these not understanding the Greeke word , rejected it with execration , being as they thought opposed unto Christ . Thus have the Prelaticall party surprised many ignorant Congregations with their innovations , and easily misled them while they kept them in the darke . But when the Sunne of righteousnesse arises , when God sends abroad John Baptists as burning and shining lights , John 5.35 . they by the beames of truth will discover the most subtile errors , and by the spirituall weapons of their warfare cast downe the strong holds of the Devill and his Angels . Where the Testimony of the Gospel of Christ is held reason 2 forth , there is so much of God as convinces and conquers , 1 Cor. 14.15 . His owne power is there displayed , Rom. 1.16 . the Gospel is the power of God unto salvation . There is the mighty presence of Christ , whose Arrowes are sharpe in the hearts of his enemies , wherby the people fall under him , Psal. 45.5 . There the Spirit of God breaths so powerfully , that by the Word alone , which is the sword of the Spirit , Ephes. 6.17 . the Apostles , though but a few meane men , were much more victorious then the greatest Alexander or potent Caesars , conquering by the word of their Testimony so many opposite Kingdomes , subduing so many thousand spirits and consciences , and that in so short a time , without shedding one drop of bloud . Indeed when we are to deale with Papists and sonnes of violence , which illegally invade our persons , Religion , Liberty , and endeavour to take away our birthright from us , the very Law of nature teacheth us to defend our selves against such injustice ; But for the overcomming of Popery , we need not other weapons to consume it , but the spirit of Christs mouth , 2 Thes. 2.8 . It is the word of their Testimony , by which Christs souldiers prevaile against the Devill and his Angels . use 1 If Christs souldiers carry on the Churches victories by the Testimony of the Gospel ; Then whose champions are they , who in stead of bearing witnesse unto , employ their power and policy to suppresse the Testimony of Jesus ? Doubtlesse none but the Dragons regiment will fight against Christ and his Gospel . Elymas the Sorcerer is wont to withstand Saul and Barnabas , seeking to turne away the Deputy from the faith . Men of corrupt minds , of no judgement concerning the faith , resist the Truth as Jannes and Jambres did Moses ; But Paul will keepe backe nothing that is profitable for their soules , teaching them publikely , and from house to house , Acts 20.20 . And also charge Timothy that he preach the Word , be instant in season and out of season , 2 Tim. 4.2 . Doe the worke of an Evangelist , fulfill thy ministery . Oh how unlike to Paul and Timothy , are many of the Prelatical Tribe , whom yet they pretend to succeed ! What successors of Paul and Timothy , by preaching against preachings , and using their power to undermine the Testimony of the Gospel ! No rather they unhappily tread in Jesuiticall steps complying with Contzens rules , whether occasionally or intentionally they best know , for the overthrowing of the power of the Gospel ; His very engines have they used to pillage our Churches of afternoone Sermons , of weekely Lectures , and to turne praying into bidding of prayer , &c. and according to his subtile counsell , were extorting such an approbation of the Prelacy amongst us as would soone have plundered England of many of her faithful Ministers , or at least their consciences of their sweete peace , if not of their liberties . And are too like those soule-murdering Jewes , 1 Thes. 2.16 . enemies to Christ and to the salvation of others , forbidding the Apostles to speake to the Gentiles that they might be saved . No wonder they lie under so much contempt . God makes good his owne word by Malachi , chap. 2.9 . Therefore have I also made you contemptible and base before all the people , according as yee have not kept my wayes , but have beene patriall in my Law . They who smother the Testimony of Christ , taking away the key of knowledge , do the most dishonourable work , & must expect answerable wages here and hereafter , use 2 Mat. 23.13 . Luke 11.52 . Do the Souldiers of Christ carry on the Churches victories by holding forth the Word of their Testimony ? Then if we prevail not against the Devil and his Angels in these Gospel conflicts , we may blame our selves and our own remissenes , as not being valiant for the truth , which was their defect , Jer. 9.3 . We are too ready to translate the fault to others , ( an old prank our first Parents taught us as soon as they had fallen . ) Parliament complains of the army ; Army of the Parliament , City against both , and Countrey will spare none of them . Thus most unhappily ( by the secret policy of Malignants ) jealousies are fomented , and multiplyed to the prejudice of all ; our hearts and hands thereby weakned in the Churches cause . It were more like Christians upon a day of mourning , to be bewailing our owne coldnesse and want of appearing as active souldiers , under so good a Captaine . God forbid it should be verified of us , what the Lord said , Jer. 8.6 . I harkned and heard , but they spake not aright : no man repented him of his wickednesse , saying , What have I done ? Oh that you would call your selves to a particular account ( it is opus diei , a worke sutable to the day ) saying , How much evill have I done to enflame these warres ; and how little good have I done to extinguish them ? Might not some Nehemiah contend with many of our Nobles , and say , What evill thing is this that you doe , and profane the Sabbath day ? But is this all ? though too much ? Might not some Peter contend with many of our Gentry , who walk in lasciviousnesse , lusts , excesse of wine , revellings , banquettings , and abominable idolatries , thinking it strange that others runne not with them to the same excesse of riot ? And might not some Jeremiah complaine , A wonderfull and horrible thing is committed in the Land , the Prophets prophesie falsely , and the Priests beare rule by their meanes , and my people love to have it so : and what will yee doe in the end thereof ? Many blesse God heartily for that Religious Ordinance of Parliament set forth some months since , to stirre up England to repentance for nationall and personall sinnes . Did you more exemplarily commend it to us by your owne practice it would have a more commanding influence upon us . What though we talke against Atheists , if we still wallow in prophanenesse , cry out against Papists , and still continue lukewarme Protestants , inveigh against Malignants , and yet remain ful of Malignant Antipathy against Scripture Reformation ; This is not to hold forth the Testimony of the Gospel as becomes a good souldier of Christ . The Lord lead us all into our owne hearts , and teach so to judge our selves that we be not judged . Doe the souldiers of Christ carry on the Churches victories by the Testimony of the Gospel ? As ever you desire they should prevaile in so good a cause , it concernes you who are the grand Counsellors , betrusted with so much superintendency for the liberty as well of our Religion , as of our persons and estates , that you emprove it faithfully for the advancing and propagating the Gospel of Christ , so will you be fitted to give a more comfortable account of your great Stewardship , when your Master cals for it , Luke 16.2 . Be pleased ( worthy Senatours ) to accept these few hints for this purpose . Patronize , protect , reward , preferre faithfull witnesses of Christ . If a Prophet come with a word of reproofe , though sharpe , if seasonable ; doe not therefore count him your enemy , as Ahad did Elijah , 1 King. 21.20 . because he dealt plainly with him : nor send him away as Amaziah did the Prophet , when he came to discover his sinnes , Art thou made of the Kings Counsell ? forbeare , 2 Chron. 25.16 . Check , restraine , disable , Diotrephes , Demetrius , and that fraternity , who undermine not onely Parliament Ordinances , but even the Ordinances of Jesus Christ , making no small stir in England about the way of Reformation ; and all maintaine their owne Diana , as Act. 19.23 , 24. &c. Have a vigilant eye upon such intemperate Preachers and Writers as pervert truth and disturbe peace . Papists would take away the Cup , and leave us but halfe a Sacrament ; Antinomians would abolish the morall Law , and leave us but halfe a Bible . If such be suffered , our Religion will grow lame and licentious . Forget not , I beseech you , forget not the purging and pruning of the Universities , the Nurseries of piety and learning . If Satan have a seate there ; if there be such that hold the doctine of Balaam , who taught Balak to cast a stumbling block before the children of Israel , to eate things sacrificed to Idols , and to commit fornication , what Papists such Tutors are like to send abroad , we have found by too much unhappy experience . And they loved not their lives unto death . Christs souldiers first pleaded the Churches cause by the word of their Testimony , and by such Gospel weapons they promoted the victory : Then , this Testimony of Jesus representing unto their owne spirits , as well as unto others , the infinite excellency of the Lambe , raised their hearts to such a pitch of love to Him and to his cause , that they loved not their lives unto the death , and so grew more compleatly victorious over the Dragon and his Angels . {non-Roman} {non-Roman} {non-Roman} {non-Roman} {non-Roman} They overcame , as by the strength of their Testimony , so by the constancy of their resolution to hazzard their lives for Christ and his Gospel . observation 4 In the Churches conflicts they prove victorious souldiers , who love not their lives so dearely , as they love Christ and his cause . Two things being cleared we may the better improve this observation in the application of it to our selves . The degrees of this love to Christ and his cause , by which they overcame . The influence such love hath into the Churches victories . First , Victorious souldiers in the Churches conflicts , must love Christ better then their best beloved sinnes , Psal. 97.10 . Yee that love the Lord , hate evill . Love is a prime radicall affection : when the heart cleaves to any good by love , it hates that evill which is most contrary to it . How will they submit their lives unto a violent death , who have not so much love unto Christ , as to make them willing to die a carnall death , to die to sinne for him ? will they lose their lives , who cannot leave a lust for Christ ? Secondly , victorious souldiers for Christ , must love him better then their most beloved worldly comforts ; when he made that promise to us , Mar. 10.29 , 30. There is no man that hath left house , or brethren , or sisters , or father , or mother , or wife , or children , or lands , for my sake and the Gospels , but he shall receive an hundred fold now in this time , &c. He thereby intimated what he expects from us , even , amare Deum usque ad contemptum mundi . We may use the world as a servant , but not grow into league with it as a friend , Jam. 4.4 . Know you not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God ? and that is a searching place , 1 John 2.15 . Love not the world , nor the things in the world : if any man love the world , the love of the Father is not in him . These two are inconsistent , and therefore , certainely he will never be a good souldier of Christ in whom love to any worldly excellency is predominant . They must deny their dearest selfe . It is hard to protest against our bosome sinne , though grossely evill in it selfe ; it is harder to renounce our alluring worldly comforts , which in themselves are lawfull ; hardest to deny our selves , which nature and Religion ( in a due order ) teaches us to love : Yet Christ makes this a distinguishing character of his Disciples , and doubtlesse is a proper badge of his souldiers , Luke 14.26 . If any man come to me , and hate not his father and mother , wife and children , and brethren and sisters , yea , and his owne life also , he cannot be my Disciple ; Comparatively , love them all , lesse then Christ , as appeares , Matth. 10.37 . When friends or selfe come in competition with Christ , or stand in opposition to him , in this case saith Jerome , we must Patrem calcare , &c. Here solum pietatis genus crudelem esse . We must exercise an holy cruelty to our friends and selfe . And indeed Christ hath no more true Disciples or faithfull souldiers in this Assembly , then such onely as love not their owne lives in comparison of their Saviour . Such is the nature and working of love , that it swayes much with the soule , like sailes to the Ship , it carries one forward even against the streame and tide . It was love that brought Christ from Heaven to the Crosse , and will draw any , where it prevailes , from a Palace to a Stake , for Christ and his cause . Love to Christ and his cause is ingenious and full of consideration how to carry on its designes for his advantage , 1 Cor. 13.5 . Love thinketh no evill ; rather it studies and plots how to communicate it selfe in all good offices . The Spouses love cost her many serious thoughts how she might enjoy and serve her Beloved . Hence some persons are much more usefull to Church and State then others , because their love to Christ puts them upon the best improvement of their parts , honours , interests and influence for his service . Love to Christ and his cause , will be at any cost and charges to gratifie him , it runnes over to Christ himselfe , and towards all Saints , Phil. 6.5 . It was love in Paul that made him willing to spend his strength , his spirits , his bloud for the Corinthians , 2 Cor. 12.15 . I will very gladly spend , and be spent for your soules : and for his Philippians , Phil. 2.17 . be off●red as a sacrifice for the service of their faith . Christs love to his poore servants thinks nothing in Heaven or Earth too much or too good for them : true love to him will be reciprocall , giving up to him , sua , suos , se , thinking all best bestowed on him . Nothing makes a Christian so unweariedly operative as Love . In 1 Thes. 1.3 . Paul blesses God for their worke of faith , labour of love , patience of hope . True love to Christ is laborious for him : so expressely , Heb. 6.10 . For God is not unrighteous to forget your worke and labour of love which yee have shewed towards his Name , in that yee have ministred to the Saints and doe minister . One cord of this love will draw more then a Yoake of Oxen , and carry you with a pleasing violence from service to service . Amongst many other sweete discoveries Paul makes of love in that short chapter , 1 Cor. 13. there are divers expressions to shew you how patient love is , enduring any thing for the person it loves , v. 4.7 . When the heart is full of love to Christ , it makes us willing to forsake , to undertake , to undergoe any thing for Christ and his cause . This no question made Ignatius so cheerefully to invite and meete killing sufferings , having such burning love to Christ that was crucified for him . Be pleased to give me leave this day in behalfe of the Vse 1 Lambe , to put in a Caveat against carnall selfe-love , which so much blunts and weakens the love of Christs souldiers in the Gospels Conflicts . If you love your soules better then the Lambe , you will never be victorious for him . They overcame which loved not their own lives unto the death . All men naturally love themselves , and consequently may have some kind of selfe-seeking love to Christ , as being the chiefest good , and so congruous to their necessities . But Christians must goe further ; we should love Christ for himselfe , as the primum diligibile , for his owne infinite excellencies , and then love our selves and all other things with reference unto him . Paul was a true Prophet , 2 Tim. 3.1 . In the last dayes perilous times shall come ; {non-Roman} {non-Roman} {non-Roman} {non-Roman} {non-Roman} , thorny times , full of difficulty : because then such a confluence of wickednesse . Eighteen severall factions he names , and the head of all those factions is selfe-love . Men shall be lovers of their owne selves , covetous , boasters , proud ▪ &c. Whilst Adam was in innocency , the Image of God inclined him to act according unto God , seeking him and his glory in the first place . Since the fall , the Image of God being lost , Selfe is perkt up ; we seeke our selves in the first , and God only in the second place . Few seek God for himselfe , out of love to him : most seeke God onely in reference to themselves : this is carnall selfe-love , and so indeed by seeking lose themselves , Matth. 16.25 . For whosoever will save his life shall lose it , and whosoever will lose his life for my sake , shall finde it . Much time hath beene spent in the Great Senate how to finde out and punish Delinquents . Allow me the liberty in the Name , not onely of Church and State , but also in the Name of Christ , to impeach One Incendiary , who hath beene too long winked at . It is a Bosome Incendiary , a domestick adversary which dwels within us , I meane , Carnall Selfe-love , the loving our owne ends and interests better then the publike good , and better then Christ himselfe . It is easie to prove these three Articles at least against carnall selfe-love . Carnall selfe-love is the greatest underminer of Parliament proceedings . Whence so many neuters , whence so many back-friends to the Publike , but because so many sicke of Baruchs disease , Jer. 45.5 . seeking great things for themselves ? Carnall selfe-love is the most treacherous betrayer of our Military undertakings , making too many Judas-like , to sell Christ and his cause for some few peeces of silver , Mat. 26.15 . Carnall self-love is the strongest obstruction of Scripture Reformation in the Church ; so , many seeke their own , not the things which are Jesus Christs , Phil. 2.21 . and therefore will rather hazzard the ruine of all , then suffer their own Dianaes to goe downe . By this craft we have our wealth , Acts 19.25 . then Diana must be cried up , what ere become of the Gospel of Christ . Amongst all other Jonahs that endanger the Ship of Church and State , throw out carnall selfe-love , let it no longer sleepe within you , lest the storme continue and grow more tempestuous . Amongst all other Achans that bring a curse upon our undertakings , let justice , justice be executed upon your owne carnall selfe-love . Passe on sequestration to regulate that in your selves which is so great an en●my to Christ and his cause . use 2 As you desi●e to approve your selves victorious souldiers in the Chu●ches conflicts ( which would put a most glorious lustre upon your Noblenesse , and adde many Pearles to your Crownes ) get hearts more enflamed with love to Christ and his cause . How lovely is your Saviour in himselfe , in the beauty of his Person , in the glory of his graces ! Cant. 5.10 . the chiefest among tenne thousand . He hath beene admirably loving unto you , in discovering plots against you , and in wonder-working providences for you . Should not the love of Christ constraine you as it did Paul , 2 Cor. 5.14 . to be active and passive for him ? O presse the Lord with his gratious promise , Deut. 30.6 . that he would circumcise your heart , that you may love him with all your heart and with all your soule . This he expects from you , Luke 10.27 . that you should love him with all your strength , give him the utmost emprovement of the whole and best-selves . We looke at you as Starres in this our Heaven . God forbid our Starres should fall , that any of them should prove Comets : let your light , motion , and influence animate others . Doe not say your taske is so difficult , your sufferings are so sharpe that you are discouraged . Get more love to Christ , that will allay the difficulty , and facilitate the worke ; you may with comfort commit the keeping of your soules to God in wel●doing , who knowes how to sweeten the bitterest troubles by his owne refreshing presence . If God call you forth as Champions , possibly , yea probably you may have the same support which that Heroicall woman found , of whom story relates , That being condemned for Christ , not long before she was to suffer , fell into travaile , and having sore labour , cryed out grievously ; whereupon being asked how she would endure Martyrdome , that was so ready to sinke under these paines , she answered to this purpose . I suffer now as a daughter of Eve , I shall suffer then as a child of God ; my Father will helpe me . Never say , because the event is uncertaine , therefore it is not best to appeare for Christ and his cause . Doe thy duty , what becomes a good Souldier , trust the Lord of Hoasts with the successe . It is true we live in trying discovering times . Who knowes but the providence of God may be now making the same discovery in England , and with the same successe , that the wisdome of Constantius Chlorus the Romane Emperour made in his Court . He having a mind to trie the sincerity of his Courtiers , made this proposall to them . All they who would sacrifice to Daemons ( the superstition of those times ) should continue at Court , and all that refused should be cashiered . Hereupon some soone professed their readinesse to sacrifice , others publikely denyed it . Such as complyed , the wise Emperour chides sharply , ut proditores Dei , and banishes them as unworthy to remaine at the Emperors Court , who would betray God himselfe . He commends them who were conscientious , and would not sacrifice ; pronouncing , tales solos dignos esse quos Imperator inter amicos muneraret . Such onely were worthy to be accounted the Emperours friends who were true to God and his cause . What though for the present you should be disparaged as factious , rebels , and traytors , &c. The Lord knowes who are most loyall to their Soveraigne , and most faithfull to their Saviour . Be not dismaied , the time may come when Christs true hearted souldiers in England , may be vindicated , justified , and honoured as much as now they are disgraced . Our Brethren of Scotland were cursed in too many Churches as Rebels , yet afterwards by concurrence of King and Parliament , upon the day of Thanksgiving acknowledged as good subjects . Remember Shadrach , Meshach , and Abednego , Dan. 3. being condemned , were cast into the Furnace , v. ●1 . their malignant adversaries consumed , v. 22. yet they preserved in the middest of the fire , v. 24. their God justified , v. 29. and afterwards they promoted by the King , v. 30. And consider I beseech you , that you may encourage your selves and one another in the cause of the Lamb , the Court Parasites having obtained the Kings decree against Daniel , whereby he was cast into the Lions Den ; The Lord most admirably turned the streame , v. 24. the King commanded , and they brought these men which had accused Daniel , and they cast them into the Den of Lions , them , their children , and their wives , and the Lions had mastery of them , and brake all their bones in peeces , or ever they came at the bottome of the Den . Yet zealous Daniel who loved the cause of God better then his owne life , was delivered with honour to his God , to his Religion , together with his owne advantage , v. 26. 27 , 28. Such as have set their love upon God , may in the encouragement of a most precious promise , consult and pray , doe and suffer , Psal. 92.14 , 15 , 16. Because he hath set his love upon me , therefore will I deliver him ; I will set him on high , because he hath known my Name , he shall call upon me and I will answer him , I will be with him in trouble , I will deliver him and honour him ; with long life will I satisfie him , and shew him my salvation . The Lord grant you the experimentall taste hereof in all your exigents . Amen . FINIS . Notes, typically marginal, from the original text Notes for div A43817e-630 Psal. 50.15 . 2 Sam. 6.22 . Psal. 65.2 . Luke 12.6 , 7. Mal. 3.16.18 . Isa. 23.9 . Micah 6.9 . Nec liberabitur Ecclesia ab Egyptiaca servitute nisi in ore gladii cruentandi , Matth. Paris . See Foxe Martyrolog . Zach. 11.7 . Notes for div A43817e-1930 The revelation 〈◊〉 Christ ●o J●●n the Churches cordiall in the last age . Hieron. p●●oem . in Ezek. Mal. 4 2. God feed● his Church in the wildernesse , & will punctually accord●ng to his promise , lead ●hem ●●●th 〈◊〉 Canaa● . {non-Roman} {non-Roman} {non-Roman} {non-Roman} {non-Roman} . Col 1.24 . See F●●paeSpeculu● , p 30 31 , 32 , 33. &c. The Churches cause is a prevailing cause . The Church hath an Almighty friend engaged for it . Isa 54.4 , 5. The Churches adversaries not invincible . 1 Vse o● Instruction . {non-Roman} {non-Roman} {non-Roman} {non-Roman} {non-Roman} , supe●vi●●i●egtegie 〈◊〉 . Piscat. Qu●d 〈…〉 in 〈…〉 Deus in 〈◊〉 Aug. This apparent in the successe of Scottish troubles . Of Caution : Judg. 5.23 . Ezek. 5.13 . Of exhortation The fight of faith a good fight . Quest . Comfort , if the witnesses are not yet slaine . Reasons why victories are attributed to the bloud of the Lambe . Rev. 1.5 . Psal. 110.7 . Of humiliation Habb . 1.16 . Christ should be all in all in our victories . 2. Sam. 12.27.28 . Of caution . Backsliding professours abuse the blood of Christ . See Dav. Dick . Comment. on this place . Vnworthy Communicants abuse the blood of Christ . Psal. 9.12 . Chrysostom in Mat. Hom. 64. Theod. l. 5. c. 17. The Ministers sad straights , about the Lords Supper . 3 Use of Exhortation . The Scripture Method of Englands peace . Interest of Princes , p. 55. Is not this Englands condition Our best Remedy . Evangelium non utique scriptum aut pictum in Tabulis . Parae . 1. In Heart . 2. In Mouth . 3. In doing . 4. In suffering . 1 Tim. 4.1 , 2. Ruffin . Eccl. hist l. 10. 2 Cor. 10.4 , 5. Information . Acts 13.8 . 2 Tim. 3.8 . See Adam Contzens politick . l. 2 c. 18. Who might not easily reduce the Puritanes in England into order if he could extort from them the approbation of the Bishops , saith the Jesuite ? Compare this with our late Convocation Oath , for the establishing Episcopacy . For selfe-judging . Neh. 13.17 . 1 Pet. 4.3 , 4. Jer 5.30 , 31. In Febr. 1642. 3 Use of Exhortation for Parliament Worthies . Here 4. hints . for Parliament men in reference to the Gospels advancement . 1 The degrees of love to Christ . 1 Loving Christ so as to hate their best beloved sins . 2 Loving Christ better then their most beloved worldly comforts . Gerson . 1 Cor. 9.25 . 2 Tim. 2.4 . 3 Loving Christ so as to deny our dearest selves for him . Compare Luk· 14.26 . with Mat. 19.37 . 2 The influence it hath . 1 Love is a contriving affection . 2 Love is a bountifull affection . Bern. 3 Love is an industrious affection . 4 Love is a tolerating affection . {non-Roman} {non-Roman} {non-Roman} {non-Roman} {non-Roman} Ignat Ep. ad Rom. Caution . Carnall-selfe-love , a dangerous weed growing in every mans garden . Carnall selfe-love , the head of all the factious . Carnall-selfe-love the greatest incendiary . 3 Articles against carnall selfe-love . Exhortation . Much encouragement to love your Saviour and his cause better then your own lives . 1 Pet. 4.19 . A wise course the Emperor tooke to try the Courtiers .