SAINTS LIKE CHRIST: OR, Somewhat of truth delivered to the Congregation at Headly in Hampshire.  
By Jo. symmond's, M. A.  1 COR. 15.48. 
As is the heavenly, such are they also that are heavenly.  
LONDON, Printed for Giles Calvert, and are to be sold at the Black Spread-Eagle at the West end of Paul's. M.DC.L.   

●o the Nobly Descended, gracious Christian and virtuous Virgin, ● rs SUSANNA MILDMAY.  
May it please you,  
I Have made bold in venturing into the world to make use of your Worship's name, that so I may pass ●…ith the less molestation in these troublesome times. It is an age of trouble, and that not alone in the world, and amongst men of the world, but such that profess to Christ, and I hope are in Christ. These latter own themselves, and what is theirs as men and fleshly, too much; and what is Christ's and spiritual not enough; The contention in the church of Corinth partly arose from men's overmuch affecting singularity, one was of Paul, another of Apollo, another of Cephas, another of Christ. It may be some boasted of their circumcision, some of their Baptism, some of both Baptism and circumcision, some it may be gloried that they had meddled neither with Baptism nor circumcision; if not so, yet it is more than conjectural that some boasted that they were hearers of such a one, and of such a ones Congregation: and from this outside-worke highly extolling their choice and way, slighting and abasing others, caused strife. The Apostle blames for this contention, and shows that the way of Christ is to take from men, as men, all glorying. It is unbeseeming the eye to hate the foot, because the foot sees not, 'tis enough that it is of the body: so should not Christians that have more excellent gifts, vilify them that have not attained to their perfection, or trouble to see others differing in judgement in some low things from them; for in the body of Christ unity may stand with diversity: there may be diversity in respect of forms and yet unity in spirit; for men may enjoy God in different forms, God may dwell in them that regard a day, and in them that regard it not; God may communicate himself to them, and so make them alike within glorious; by enjoying his glorious presence. Forms are to be reverenced (knowing of some there is use) as they wherein Christians may walk and be useful one to another; yet mere being in forms makes not Saints, nor doth uniformity in forms breed true unity. True unity of members is from those members union with the head. And as souls are in unity with the head; so will they grow into a unity one with another. 'Tis the new and spiritual birth whereby souls are one with Christ, and like Christ that makes them at on with Christians, and true Christians look upon all that profess to Christ not as in forms, but as possessing Christ; and as they find Christ living in them do they esteem them, and account them precious, knowing that a precious Christ makes precious Christians, and that they will keep their excellency let the times and places be never so bade they are cast into. Right Worshipful, you are young, and yet some bad days you have seen, people of all Ages, Sexes, qualities very bad, some ill savour in every place by reason of corruption have you to your annoyance met withal; And God knows what more you may, whilst here in the body. You know what hath kept you right in these crosse-walkings, and also what hath preserved you and enabled you to keep your sweetness, hath not a Christ guided you? hath not a Christ communicated himself to you? I have high thoughts of your Noble self, and I am persuaded never a whit above you, but that you are as high as I take you to be, and that is in Christ; whom you have found all in all unto you, and on whom you rely to carry you through what remains of sufferings as your part and portion, that at last you may sit down with Christ in his Throne even as he is set down with his Father, in his Father's Throne: and as you are such as he is in this world, so you may be like him in the world to come, participating with your sweet Saviour, and blessed redeemer in his glory to your perfect happiness. You have an inside like Christ now, a soul glorious; you shall have an outside like him also, body glorious, body and soul glorious, all glorious. Towards the enjoying of which so fare as my daily prayers may help, you shall be sure of them, praying to God on your behalf. And upon this account I tender myself.  
Your Worship's devoted Servant, to serve you, in what I may, JO. symmond's.   
1 John 4.17. 
As he is, so are we in this world.  
THat which makes Christ's appearance delightful & giving soul-content to Christians is love, & that which makes the appearance of Christians delightful and pleasant to Christ is love. 
〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉. Simele gaudet simili. Joh. 13.1 1 Joh. 4.19  Like is very much won and pleased with its like, a loving Christ with loving Christians, and loving Christians with a loving Christ: A merciful Christ with merciful Christians, and merciful Christians with a merciful Christ: A holy Christ with holy Christians, and holy Christians with a holy Christ. 
Cant. 1.2  Christ's love to Saints is better than wine, 
Cant. 4.10  so is the Saints love to Christ much better than wine, The savour of the good ointments of Christ causeth the Virgins to love him, 
Cant. 1.3  and the smell of the ointments and garments of those Virgins, being holy Saints, and Christ's Spouse, 
Hos. 14.5, 6, 7  is like the smell of Lebanon, where pleasant and odoriferous trees, herbs and spices grew in abundance; No spices (not the best nor sweetest of all Created things) yielded so pleasant a savour to Christ as the graces, 
Cant. 4.10  and actings of those graces, of his Sister and Spouse did.  
Christians, you see your blessed state, you are like Christ, 
Gal. 2.20 Rom. 1.5  and loved of him, it may be you are neither like men of the world, nor loved of them, you may be never the worse for this, 
Jo. 15.19  nay, it may be the more happier, for differing so much from them, and being hated or slighted of them. Our conformity to the world Christ never commends, but on the contrary (in Scripture) often discommends and bids us beware of it; 
Eph. 5.11 Rom. 12.2 Mat. 20.25, 26 2 Cor. 6.14  'Tis conformity to himself that Christ invites unto and expects, and as Christ would have it so, Saints desire it may be so; They care not who disapproves of them and theirs, 
1 Cor. 4.3 Humanum diem vocat humamanum judicium.  so Christ approves, who blames them, so Christ commends them, who slights them, so Christ honours them; They (it may be) cannot say when they see rich-men, that they are like them, rich as they are rich; or if they see men advanced to worldly honours, that they enjoy such honours and dignities, or if they see people beautiful or gorgeously apparelled, they cannot (it may be) say they have so fair a face or rich , etc. Saints think they are rich enough, honourable enough, that they are very fair and gallant, if like Jesus Christ. In respect of many worldly enjoyments that the sons of men possessed, 'tis probable the sons of Zion could not say they were like them, yet this was their comfort, that they had the witness of the spirit, 
Rom. 8.16  that they could say they were like God, they were holy souls, like the holy God; union with God brought forth likeness to God; 
1 John 4.15, 16 Deus charitas est, quid pretiosius? Et qui manet in charitate, in Deo manet, quid securius? Et Deus in eo, quid jucundius? Haec gloria christianorum magna est.  a blessed God dwelling in them makes them blessed souls; Exceeding blessed and ever happy are they, that from in-dwellings of Father Son and Spirit in them, can say God is holy, Christ is holy, the Spirit holy, and we as Saints delight to be holy, and so to be like Father, Son and Spirit: The Apostle speaks largely in his own and Saints commendation in uttering a few words, saying, As he is, so are we in this world: He had spoken much of God, and of the Son of God, 
1 Joh 4.16  and of Gods dwelling in Saints, and of Saints being born of God, 
1 Joh. 4.7  and knowing God, and having laboured with his Divine and Heavenly Rhetoric, he endeavoured to give God the honour due unto him, and he would not let slip an opportunity of magnifying the grace of God in Saints, 
1 Joh. 3.1 1 Joh. 5.12  and how much they were dignified by enjoying God, and as to extol their greatness and goodness in the world, so to cheer up themselves, that had received such kindness of God, and that they might with boldness stand up pleading their own dignity and blessedness, 
1 Pet. 4.14  against all the reproaches, disgraces and scorns of the world, he holds out God, and then himself and Saints: As he is, so are we in this world.  
We shall look upon the Text as it hath relation mainly to God, as making out himself to us in Jesus Christ, 
Loquitur hic de conformitate, in puritate & innocentia vitae. Hem. 1 Pet. 1.15 2 Cor. 5.21. Luk. 6.36.  and to Saints through grace enjoying God within, and by that enjoyment striving to be like God in holiness, righteousness, mercy, love, patience, long-suffering, goodness, gentleness, etc. And although 'tis impossible for Christians to be such as God for purity and perfection, 
Haec conformitas nostri cum Deo in imitatione & cona●u, & omni puritate & perfectione posita est. Rom. 8.29  yet through the Spirits help may they imitate God, and for the manner of living holily, strive to be conformable to the Lord, So that as God is a God of love, Christians are Christians of love: that love that is in a Christian to God, it is but a son, it is but a fruit of the love that is in God to a Christian, 'tis but the springing forth of somewhat of God himself planted within in the soul, 
Eccles. 1.7  'tis but a stream running back to that Sea from whence it came, returning God his due; like for like; love for love; a Saint knows love deserves love; God's love is love; 
1 Jo. 4.19  In this way of love he acts freely, 
1 Pet. 5.2  and so is like God, it is as ordinary for a Christian to love, as to live; for what maintains his being as a Saint, produceth love to the ornament of his being. As it rejoiceth in having the life of a Saint, 
Gal. 2.20 Act. 4.20 Psal. 40.8  so it is pleased in doing the work of a Saint, laying out itself in what is pleasing to the Lord; 
Joh. 7.18  God cannot but act what is good, and what tends to his own glory; take a Saint as having God living in it, 
1 Joh. 3.18, 19  and from that living of God in it acting, it doth what is good, and also tends to the glory of God; 
1 Cor. 15.58  It knows 'tis not lost labour to be doing for God, and that it is not in vain. There is infinite good in God, and there is some good in a Saint; Infiniteness in God enables God for infinite work, God is able to do like himself, beyond what a soul can think or conceive; A soul that enjoys somewhat that this all-good-God gives out in his love through Christ, 
1 Cor. 15.10  is in his actings according to what he receives, and as that receiving springs and sprouts out; 
Omnia gratiae divinae tribuit.  A spark of fire will do what a spark can do, and a drop of water what a drop may: indeed it cannot do so much as the Sea, or Element of fire can do; 'Tis a Christians joy that of Christ's heavenly fullness it receives some grace, 
Joh. 3.34  Christ hath what he hath without measure, a Christian in measure; a Christian is glad that it finds Christ saying, 
1 Cor. 15.48  As is the heavenly such are they that are heavenly, and that by the spirits work 'tis fashioned to be like Christ now 'tis in the world, and so changed into the same Image from glory to glory. 
2 Cor. 3.18  And though it live in a wicked world amongst wicked men, yet it is not like them, but it is like him that is heavenly, it is not conformable to those it lives withal without in the body, but to him that lives within, in his soul; Dear beloved, what are you? what can you now say for yourselves? can you say you are like Christ? have you a life like Christ? have you a conversation like Christ? are you clothed like Christ? 
Col. 3.12  have you put on (as the Elect of God (holy and beloved) bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, long suffering, forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any, 
Christus non tantum nobis est donum, verum etiam exemplum. Miraculosae actiones Christi, mentem nostram de veritate doctrinae ipsius confirmabunt. Peculiares actiones, quae sunt ipsius officii propriae, hae ut expiatoriae peccati nostri fuerunt: ita salutis fiduciam in nobis alent & confirmabunt.  even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye: The actions of Christ should be instructions of christians, yet consider rightly of Christ's actions, some were miraculous, as fasting forty days, raising the dead, etc. these are not to be imitated, because they cannot, yet these may help to strengthen our faith, and confirm us concerning the truth of the Doctrine of Christ. Some are peculiar actions belonging to his office, as to redeem, or make intercession, etc. these also are proper to Christ only. 
Morales actiones, quibus legi morali satiisfecit, hae nostram vitam & mores ad dilectionem Det & proximi excitabunt.  Some are moral, these last are only imitable; you may take all thus, some actions there are of Christ which he did as God, some as Mediator, some as man. The last are binding to us to follow: every action of Christ's is for our instruction some way or other, and careful aught we to be to make use of it as we should, that so none of Christ's do do not pass by us unobserved and taken notice of, but that we rightly ponder them, 
Omnis Christi actio, nostra est instructio, sed diversimode, etc.  that what is to be admired and wondered at, we may admire and wonder, what invites to praise, let them have it, and what is to be imitated, let them be set before us, and strive to imitate, and though we cannot act to perfection, yet let us act with affection, and though we cannot do as we should, yet let us desire to do it, and though the body's pace be slow, yet may your souls be nimble; Paul though he could not take hold on, yet did he reach out to those things that were before; And be sure to send love to Christ, and let that tell him that all of soul and body is following after. And that whatsoever your do are, yet your desires are right, for they are to please him, and glad would you be to be comprehended in that saying of the Apostle; As he is, so are we in this world: Blame none for desiring this, to be like Christ; He that is like Christ, is very excellent, and the more this likeness is perfected, the nearer is the soul to glory. 'Tis an excellent discovery of a virtuous soul, to see it continue good, let the times, places, and people be never so bad: and so doubtless it manifests a heavenly excellency within, when a soul that lives in this wicked & ungodly world, appears in life and conversation heavenly, & shines out in a dark world though not with so clear a light, as Christ, yet is his light & shining out like Christ; A handsome imitation from some, is as pleasing as great action from others; Lord! thou art not strict to mark what is done amiss, look not on our actings which are imperfect, but Lord consider what our desires are, how we desire to conform to thee, and help Lord with thy spirit; As thou art a loving God, let us be loving christians, as thou art a glorious Husband, let us be a glorious Spouse, as thou art a soul-pittying-Saviour, let us be soul-obedient Saints; As thou art a fountain, a Sea, let us be streams, at least drops, and though we are not of such worth as thou O Christ, 
Quantum unusquisque est in●oculis Dei, tantum est, etc.  yet let us be true coin, and as pounds and pence may have one stamp, and the least though not of so great a value as the best, yet of some value; Mark us sweet Jesus for thine, though the mark be never so small, that so what the Pharisees messengers answered thee concerning the Image and superscription upon the Tribute-money, saying, it is Caesar's, so Lord let the Image and stamp upon our souls be Christ's. That so our life, our love, our actions may be such as Christ's, Christ and us may have one way, one will, one affection, one mind, our bent and purposes the same with Jesus Christ: Now the work goes on, now is the mirth, now thriving, when all agree in one, when all the Soldiers do like the Captain, all the servants like the master, all the followers like the leader, all the members as the head directs, and that there are no divisions; commands answer with obedience, examples suitable to the pattern, learners like the teacher, Saints like the Saviour, As he is, so are we, etc.  
Doct. Obs: True Saints are such that are very like Jesus Christ.  
There is some special singular thing in Saints that is not in men of the world, there is a singular virtue in a Jewel that is not in another stone, which makes it esteemed, there is a peculiar choice excelling in Saints that makes them so extolled, there is somewhat in them that others have not seen, nor known, 
1 Cor. 2.10  which is manifest to them by the spirit, they are begotten of God, and so come to be like Christ as children of one father are like one another: A holy Christ the Son of God, and holy Saints children of God, 
Heb. 2.11  all of one; for which cause Christ is not ashamed to call Saints brethren, and from this brotherhood it is that Christ and christians are good friends, that there is so much union, peace and affinity, that they can speak together, confer together, dwell together, feed together, lodge together, and live together, the God of Christ, the God of Saints, the Father of Christ, the Father of Saints, 'tis the words of Christ, the soul-delighting words of the Elder brother to the Younger, sent by Mary as a message of comfort to the Disciples, 
Ad perturbatos Discipulos accurre. Io. 20.17  Go to my brethren, and say unto them, I ascend unto my Father and your Father, and to my God and your God. Here's a cordial, the Disciples were troubled at their Masters being crucified, and 'tis likely were very much grieved, Christ forgets them not, but sends them news of his Resurrection and of his Ascending into glory, and that they should ascend likewise, for his Father would not entertain him alone, but them also; The inheritance of glory belongs to Saints as well as Christ, all God's children shall partake in this kingdom, 
Rom. 8.17  The spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God, 
Donorum patris caelestis sunt participes.  And if children than heirs, heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ. Christ had bled freely for them, and his message is sweet to them, willing his should know what glory is provided for them, 
1 Joh. 3.2 Phil. 3.21 Rev. 3, 21  and therefore tells them they should be like him, their vile bodies made like his glorious body, and sit with him in his Throne, those that are like him in grace, shall be like him in glory, they that are partakers with him in bearing the cross, shall be partakers with him in wearing the crown. Christ is fashioning his daily for himself, and when he hath brought his work to that perfection here, that they come unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ and to perfect man, 
Eph. 4.13  he will remove them to glory; for the church is heaven's nursery, and as Christ sees fit he draws out those precious plants that are like himself, and sets them with himself; Small pieces of gold are looked to and kept safe; if like Christ you are well enough souls, 'tis no matter who you are unlike; if fashioned like Christ, it matters not how different you are from all others, you are as you should be if like Christ.  
The choice work of Christ is about souls, Reas. and here (as his skill is required so) he shows it, in bringing forth so beautiful a piece and rare that was formerly deformed and vile, in making a brat of Satan's a Saint, that which was like hell, to be like heaven; that which was most ugly, to be like himself that is the holy of holies.  
Saints are very like Christ, because whatsoever is found in a Saint as a Saint, it is really one with Christ, some thing flowing out from Christ; In Saints there is plenitudo vasis the fullness of a vessel; but in Christ is plenitudo fontis, a fountain-fullnesse. The Schoolmen say that Christ is as the fire, Christians as things lighted at that fire; 
 ignis, & ignita.  the fullness of the fire is such that light a thousand torches at it, it is not diminished. Fire is not diminished by what is lighted at it, but by the abatement or diminution of the fuel, now Grace in Christ cannot be diminished, 'tis not subject to any decay; 'tis as he himself is, the same to day and for ever. Christ could not be perfect if subject to change; I conceive without offence I may say, that as a thing lighted at a fire is like the fire that lighted it, so Saints receiving grace from Christ are like Christ from whom they receive that grace; 
Joh. 1.16  as children are like their Parents, so Saints like this everlasting Father, 
Isa. 9.6  who is their father.  
Reas. Christ lives with them, in them, and in this he delights, and all is of likeness. Like is pleased with like, so is Christ, Saints are like him, and he rejoiceth to be with them. Affections meeting with a right object draw all after; If the affections be won the whole man is obtained so 'tis with Christ; where his love is pitched all his excellences will fasten. If Christ meet with one in whom his soul takes pleasure, that soul cannot do amiss. How kind are men where pleased, and what pleaseth but somewhat is suitable? Somewhat in David that liked Jonathan, 
1 Sam. 18.1  caused him to close with that soul-friendship, and to continue to the hazarding of his own life, David's friend. Men love to live where they like, and with whom, so doth Christ, & that is in Saints; they are the persons he likes, and in them are the places he desires to make his places of residence. Let a man find a place that he likes, it's of force enough to bring him to live there. You need no other argument to draw him thither; the mind is of force sufficient to make him effect what he effects, let the place be in the way to heaven or hell; The mind hath a great hand in the salvation or damnation of men; 
Rom. 8.6  God make our minds spiritual that so we may love what is spiritual. A gracious Christ loves gracious souls; here is nothing more like him, nor nothing more delightful to him; his heart is ravished with them, exceedingly taken with them, so that nothing satisfies him but being in them, and by being in them, appears the unity; and by the unity the amity, and by the amity is manifested likeness. Paul agreed with Saints he being made like them; wonder not then at Christ's friendliness with Saints; 'tis but the society of the Bridegroom with the bride, of the head with the members of a man with himself. As Christ's love hath its perfect work on believing souls, so he that is the perfect worker hath his dwelling there: happy host that hath such a guest, blessed spouse that hath such a Husband blessed soul that hath such a friend, happy body that hath such a head. The Lord fashion us like Christ, and we doubt not of enjoying him.  
Reas. The thing begotten is like that which begat, now Saints as Saints are begotten of Christ, and having Christ for their father they are children like him, 
1 Pet. 1.23 Jam. 1.18 Simile generat sibi s●…i●●  time for time, as the first Adam begat a son in his own likeness, so the second: 
Rom 5.19  Nature makes us like the first Adam, grace like the second, there's a Certain likeness betwixt the birth of nature, and the birth of grace. Much of the birth of Saints as Children of Christ, may be held out (as in an emblem) by the natural birth God shown much mercy to let thee be a man such an excellent Creature, That God that hath set thee so high, 
Psal. 8.6  that made thee to have dominion over the sheep & oxen, the beasts of the field, the foul of the air and the fish of the Sea, might have made thee the lowest, the contemptiblest of all these, this is not all the mercy yet, hears more, in that thou hast thy lot in heaven amongst Saints in the good land, where the gospel shines and wherein God in mercy dwells. It is a poor business for all this to brag of these things, unless thou art born a-again of the spirit, for it is the new birth that makes thee inheritor of the glorious things of Christ. Once born is not enough, Judas had that but not the second, the execellent name of Christians of right is by the second birth. Thou mayest by thy first birth be a playfellow with Saints, as children meanly descended may be with the children of Nobles, yet not Noble nor share in the inheritance or titles of honour: The five foolish Virgins were companions a while with the wise, 
Math. 25.  but at length separated, so may carnal men, men once borne with Saints, men twice borne; but God will find them out when he separates the precious from the vile, when he makes up his jewels: and gathers the wheat into his barn, than it will little advantage a soul that it hath had a good name when 'tis found with a bad soul, 
Quid tibi prodest vocari quod non es.  that it hath eat and drunk with the Saints, when it shall enjoy no inheritance with them, but be shut out into outer darkness. 
Mat. 22.13, Quid tibi prodest ista memoria, si ubi es, torquris, et ubi non es, laudaris? Cor. 15.21.22.  It may be thou mayest leave somewhat behind thee, that Carnal men may commend thee for, what comfort is this if you should be in the lake that burneth with fire and brimstone, in a word, the first birth let it be never so perfect sets us but in a miserable world, higher it cannot advance. Neither King nor Noble happy by nature's birth; 'tis the second birth gives perfection.  
By this souls are very holy, what Conceptions are in souls by Christ, they are very like Christ himself, holy; 
Spiritus Jesus, spiritus bonus, spiritus sanctus, spiritus rectus, spiritus dulcis. etc.  spiritual, heavenly. The seed of man may corrupt: but not the seed of God, where he casts his grace there will be growth and fruit suitable; wheat brings forth wheat; and barley brings forth barley; every seed a body like itself; so doth Christ. There are no more holy, heavenly, spiritual children than they that have the Father of Heaven theirs, An everlasting father begets everlasting children a holy father holy children, Saints. 2. By this they are blessed, they that are begotten of blessed Christ, are bless souls, a happy man may have children, and yet they may not be happy, a good man may have bad children, but 'tis not so with Christ, all Christ's children are Good, all his offspring according to the spirit happy. If he beget Paul, he shall have occasion enough to magnify his birth: laying aside the first birth, he boasts not of that: it is the second rejoyeth his heart: all blessed privileges came by the second, the first compared with the second are but as dung and dross. 3. By this they are precious, a precious Christ begetting causeth precious souls begotten. The King's daughter is glorious, 
Ps. 45.13  all glorious, every limb glorious, within and without glorious, 
Eph. 5.27  as of Christ without spot or wrinkle, 
Col. 1.22 Quatenus consideratur in Christo, non solum sine macula est, sed infinito decoro exornata, etc.  or any thing like it, holy, unblamable, and unreprovable: the heart pure, upright, sanctified throughout, the hands clean, the life faultless, without defilement, walking in all gods ways blameless.  
These expressions as they have relation to Christians, are to be understood of the righteousness of Christians, as they are considered under the Covenant of grace and of the Gospel, not of legal perfection but of an Evangelical innocence and uprightness, not as they are in themselves, but as in Christ the precious.  
Christ is full of Love, peace, goodness; so are Saints his children, children endued with love, peace, goodness. Water taken out of a fountain, relisheth like that in the fountain, fruit is suitable to the tree? 'Tis so with Saints, they are streams of a good fountain, they are fruit of a precious tree. Fruit of life, growing on the tree of life, living streams begun, and nourished by a living fountain. A loving Christ brings forth loving children, Christ the Prince of peace, sons and daughters of peace; Christ that is all good conceives to his goodness.  
6. They that are born of Christ affect what is good, what is heavenly. The birth of Creatures is maintained with such food as he that begat it is, A man's birth with man's food, drought will starve it. Earthly things nourisheth not a heavenly birth, the world is a stepmother that will starve it, they are the breasts of Christ's Consolations (that as it desires) must nourish it; 'Tis bread of life, and water of life, and food of life that it must have; Wisdoms food & feasts, feed and banquet wisdom's children. Every Morsel, Saints eat that nourisheth them, must have somewhat of Christ, he is living food for living souls. I am (saith Christ) that bread of life: He that eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, 
john 6.  dwelleth in me, and I in him; He that eateth and drinketh him shall live for ever. Souls, consider what food you feed on; Creatures nature appears much in the nourishing: they desire, and eat; A beast is pleased, if it may have beasts food; A man if man's food, so hear. The first Adam's children are contented with the world's food, give them worldly things they are pleased, if the world will give them plenty from her Cupboard, they look not after any other; But the second Adam's children are not thus pleased, they must have somewhat from heaven, they will bless God for loaves, but they will not be quiet with them, if they have not somewhat else, they have souls also to care for, these must be satisfied, or all is not well with them; Hungry souls are restless, Christ shall not be unsought unto till they are filled. I need not bid you examine yourselves, what diet pleaseth you, you are pleased as you are; If worldly, with worldly things; if heavenly, with heavenly things. I could tell what preaching would please you all, but I forbear; I am sure, no preaching pleaseth Saints but the preaching of Christ, God in mercy give all you that have been born but once, one birth more, a second birth; then will you long for the food that nourisheth you to everlasting life.  
Reas. True Saints are very like Christ, for Christ is known by them, the virtues, graces, sweetness, wholesomeness, etc. that is in Saints, and which they hold out in their conversation, sets out in some sort Christ. A gracious man hath much of Christ; whatsoever truly names him gracious, is Christ. Books bear their names from what is in them; And houses and lands (usually) from those that possess them. We may guess what the fountain is by tasting of the stream, what the book is by the title. If such and so much of the delicateness of Christ be in earthen vessels, what is in glory itself? if poor man be of so much worth that hath but one small drop of this Ocean in him, what is the Sea itself worth? A man may conceive a Rock of Pearl to be of a great value, when a small dust is so much worth. True Saints though they have but little of Christ, yet may it lead you to this, that if Christ in a creature be so eminent, and his graces make them lovely, doubtless, he as in himself is exceeding eminent and lovely. Saints at most are but as it were the picture, or image, now if the Image be admired, much more the person that is represented. An Image may be like the substance, so a Saint like Christ. Christ is known other ways, yet in some measure this way, by Saints.  
Use: Christians, you desire now to know who are truly godly, 'tis an age of deceit, all is not gold that glisters, there are false wares, false men, and there are false christians, there are some that have a name, 
2 Ep. joh. 6. Multi sunt in mundo impostores. Matth. 24.24.25.26.  they live but are dead, there are many deceivers in the world, the world is full of soul-cheats, hardly any place free. The time is fully come, Christ prophesied of, there shall arise false Christ's, and false Prophets, and shall show great signs and wonders: in so much that (if it were possible) they shall deceive the very Elect. Behold, I have told you before. Wherefore if they shall say unto you, Behold, he is in the desert, go not forth: Behold, he is in the secret-chambers, believe it not; Such Impostors are deceitful, 
Matth. 24.5.  and shall deceive many, beware you. They shall use the name of Christ, as their colour or pretence, and such are likely (unless there be great heed taken) to deceive; Seamen are spoiled by Pirates, that hang out their own colours, 
Prov. 7.14.  that harlot was winning that pretended honesty; Souls, know God's Merchants are vending as good Merchandise now as ever the world had held out, and the devils as bad, he will keep market where God doth, he hath his cheats to vend, where God hath his truths. It is too hard a labour for me to find all the deceits that are abroad, what lies in the heart of one man is not known; 
jerem. 17.9.  the bottom cannot be searched, every heart hath its deceits, and they are many, the world is full, the devil hath many large shops and many wares. I shall give you the Evangelists counsel: Look to yourselves, 
2 Ep. joh. 8.  were you going to a fair, and one should say to you, look to your purses, there are many cutpurses and cheats, how cautious would you be; Take heed of your souls Christians, 'tis for them Satan goes about, he hath what he aims at if he gets them, and he never hath his aim till he hath them; But it is men, not things, that I have in hand, you say you cannot tell who to trust, and I say so too. Christ can discover all, the Lord hasten this work, he can find out the man without the wedding Garment though the Guests perceive him not, 
Matth, 22.11.  he can show you which are the foolish Virgins, which the wise, though they lie together for a whiles undiscerned. 'Tis usual with men to think God such as themselves; 
Psal. 5.21.  no wonder then that they take them for Saints that are like themselves. Too too many go hand in hand to destruction. Your Carnal worldly men they take none to be godly but themselves, and such as they are that are good Husbands, and correspond with the world, doing (as they say) no man wrong, paying every man his own, no Saints to them but these: so people that are got into such a form of worship, they look upon none in Zion, but they that do as they do, all others are in Babylon. Many will not pray nor perform any duty of Religion with those that are not of their opinion; Oh strange! If this be not to have the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ with respect of persons, what is? Can the Apostle esteem highly of those that were gracious, and shall not we, whether they were by nation, Jews or Gentiles, whether circumcised, or not circumcised: if holy Souls pray, you may discern where Christ dwells, (they are true souls) love such, Christ is holy, they that have him are holy, Christ is truth, they have truth that have him, Christ is merciful, so are they that are Christ's; Trust not to my words, you may be deceived, and so may I; yet I shall give you some hint of Saints that are so like Christ.  
1. There are some that are very useful souls, these are like Christ; you know how useful Christ is.  
1. The prayers of Christ are useful, so are the prayers of Saints: Christ was much in prayer for the Churches good, 
Psal. 127.6.  so are Saints. Jerusalem is preferred above their chief joy, Nehemiah, Daniel, Ezekiell, David, were praying souls, they were always mindful of the church, and so were others that were gracious. Saints are very like Christ in this, he prayed for his very enemies, so do they; he prayed for the Lords strength to strengthen his church, so do they; 
joh. 17.15.  he prayed his church might be kept from the evil of the world, Saints have this among their petitions.  
2. The company of Christ is useful. How useful was Christ when in the flesh to many distressed souls? what place came he unto that he did not do some good in? how blessed are they that have his presence now, to cheer them, heal them, help them according to their several needs; are not Saints thus to their power? do they not exercise the gift given them for others good? 'Tis a blessed condition, (I assure you a Saint that knows best how to judge thinks it so) to live in such places where it may have the company of those that are truly godly.  
3. Christ is so useful that he holds out all he hath to Saints, what he possesseth in grace or glory 'tis presented to souls, all is ready to do them good. Here's liberality, 'tis so with those that are Christ's, they think nothing too dear to be spent for their brethren's good, a free Christ, 
Act. 3.32, 34.  and free Saints, ready to sell and part withal, to help the necessities of fellow-members. The hand will not keep money in it when the foot or other parts need it; the foot will not fit still when the body requires ' its help. There is a natural helping amongst members, so amongst Saints. There are few like Christ in this, indeed few that are like him all; They are more like the devil than Christ, they put out all they have to do mischief, body, Estate, all goes if they think they may displeasure Saints; let them buy hell, they may have time enough to complain of their bargain; They that are so unlike Christ and Saints here, shall have suitable company, but it shall be neither Christ nor any of his holy ones. The Lord grant you grace that in this you may imitate Christ and be like him, in using what you have so for him & his, that you may give up an account of your stewardship with joy and not with grief.  
2. Some are very pitiful souls, they are pitiful from a Principle of grace, these are like Christ. If they see a poor creature in an ignorant sottish state, how do they bemoan him, take all opportunities possible to bring him to the knowledge of the truth? 
Misericordia est vicina miseriae. Sen. l. 2. de Clem.  A merciful man strives to be Neighbour to him that is in need, and who more than the ignorant? Paul was very pitiful affected this way, so are they that are like Christ, compassionate to their bodily needs; they strive to be merciful as their heavenly father is merciful. They are excellent for showing pity that are Christ's.  
2. They commiserate the wilful, and strive to bring them to obedience, they have learned Christ's language, crying out, why will you die O obstinate souls? why will you cross Christ and at length bring an eternal curse upon yourselves? 
Psal. 35.14.  they have such Yearning bowels after them, that it many times draws tears from them. They may be ill dealt withal, and have many a mock and jeer and suffering for their good will, yet this beats them not off, it makes them not desist, but hold out, with Christ seeking their Good that cannot endure them; 
Isa. 65.23.  You may see how Christ was, served yet what he did; I stretched out my hands all the day, to a rebellious people: a people that provoketh me to anger continually to my very face: 'Tis so with many Saints, do not many preach the word to such that are deadly adversaries to them, that abuseth them to the very face, nay, in the very time they are persuading them, 
2 Cor. 12.15. Act. 7.57. Summa mundi ingratitudo.  & the more a Saints spirit in pity is for their good, the more are their spirits in rage against Saints to their hurt.  
3. They have yearnings of soul after such that deviate from truth that go astray in the wilderness of sin, striving to reclaim them, and to bring them into the way of the Lord, to walk towards holiness, 
Act. 17.23  Paul was employed in such a business as this at Athens amongst a people that were wandering after an unknown God, that went they knew not whither, 
Luk. 15.4.  that worshipped they knew not what. As a man looks after a wandering beast to bring it home, so doth Christ a wandering soul; and this is part of the employment of such that can say, As he is, so are we in this world. 
Ezech. 34.6, 7, 8, 9  Christ is highly displeased with such that should look after scattered souls, and are negligent, they walk contrary to him; but such please him that are painful in preserving those are his, that undertake any employment for the recovery of souls from error to truth, from out of the Devils common to Christ's sold. They are dear friends to Christ, that to their utmost are helpful to the purchased possession of Christ: you that are good servants to Christ, you shall find him a good Master to you: be like him in action, and he will make you like himself in the reward, he that works in his vineyard shall have fair wages. Blessed are you that now serve not yourselves but the Lord Jesus Christ; this business will make Christ honour you; your striving to reclaim such that wander from the commandments of the Lord: 
Dan. 12.3.  They that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament: and they that turn many to righteousness, as the stars for ever and ever. God will honour them that strive to save others. 
Jam. 5.20.  How like Christ are they that strive to convert a sinner from the error of his way, and to save a soul from death? Is not such work Christ's work? do not they follow him that works thus? When Christ works in us for making us like him, we will work abroad to bring souls unto him.  
3. They loath sin, they that are like Christ, they detest and abominate what Christ detests. Sin is a devil (and who can abide him unless wretches that are like him.) Sin will eat up a soul; can any unless a madman love that which will utterly undo him? Sin brings plagues upon a man's self and all he hath, entertain not a guest that hath such ill attendants, thou canst not embrace sin but thou must wound Christ: wilt thou show so much hard-heartedness as to wound him that hath suffered so much already, 
Isa. 52.14.  yea such sufferings, as never any suffered besides him, besides you cannot sinne against Christ but you must hurt yourselves, yea your best part, 
Pro. 8.36.  your souls, but to cast such weeds aside and to speak of men and practices fitting the place and time, and that is Saints & their behaviour in this particular towards sin, they abhor sin upon the same reasons and grounds that Jesus Christ abhors it, 'tis indeed Christ in them that makes them dislike it if their dislike be such as it should be, there are souls that may have some dislike of sin, yet they may not with a Saints spirit loathe it.  
1. Some there are that stand aloof from sin when it allures, because should they yield, it may cause some disgrace to them, it may make some cast them off that now they have favour withal, and whose favour it may be is more beneficial for present then their sin can be, they are solicited unto. These deserve no thanks from God, for love to God makes them not dislike sin, 'tis the upholding of some reputation and credit amongst men that for present restrains them. They say not, I have received mercy from Christ, how can I sin against him that hath been so good to me? but I have a reason of mine own, saith the carnal soul, and therefore I may do this or that, not but that he loves the sin, but it stands not with his end for present to meddle with it.  
2. Some are kept off from sin as the dog from the bone with the cudgel, the fear of the Law deters them, feign they would be doing but then they fear suffering, they think it might be beneficial to steal, but they like not hanging, the money might help them but the halter would hurt them; Christ is not beholding to these nor to any such, for love to him prevails not with them; 
Mat. 14.5.  these are kept from evil as Herod at first from killing John for fear of the people, 
Luk. 22.2.  & as the Chief Priests & Scribes from kill Jesus, or the Captain and Officers from offering violence to the Apostles. 
Act. 5.26.  That many are not more vile we may thank their fear of the Law, not their love nor likeness to Christ.  
3. Some are kept from some sins for fear of hell; Hell is not seen, and therefore not much feared, men think strangely of hell, take heed you never know it, this place of Torments is not much considered of now, or if it be, men think they are far enough from it and may escape. If love to Christ keep not from sin, fear of hell will not; 'tis the mercies of Christ that Paul presents as a bait to allure to holiness, and draw men off from the world, 
Rom. 12.1— Significans cogitionem miserecordiae Dei debere nobis esse stimulum ad vitam Deo placentem transigendam.  mercies are very invitive, especially the mercies of Christ that are such sweet & precious mercies, mercies that had never any like them, the world had never such another in it for mercy as Christ. Mercies draw Saints to abhor evil, and as God shall call you to be Saints, you will do likewise. Sin is offence to Christ and goodness is pleasing to him. Saints (are acquainted with him and) know it and strive it should be so to them, Christ and inside Christians, have but one object of their love & but one of their hatred, viz: good and all good, and that they effect together; evil and all evil and that they reject a like, you may conceive of such to be Saints that go so right with Christ.  
4. Saints indeed, (souls like Christ they are such that aim at the glory of God) in all their undertake, it was Christ's meat and drink to do the will of his father, so 'tis theirs that are Christ's, if men will be pleased seeing them in God's business they rejoice but if they will not, they nevertheless continue doing; There was a Gallant courage in Christ to glorify his Father, so is there in Saints, they will honour God if they die in the action, 
Act. 5.19.  they if opposed durst bidt heir opposers judge whether it be better to obey God or man, he acts right that bids his enemy be judge of his do: if any spy faults, enemies will. Saints are for pleasing God, that's their aim, they are company for such whose journey is heaven-ward; Christ is gone before, they follow after. He goes fastest to heaven that goes on most speedily in God's work, that, as it tends to God's glory, so to the actors glory. A soul will soon be glorified itself, that glorifies God; they that are for God, shall be with God; heavenly work is recompensed with good ways; Christ did his work, is entered into his joy, do yours and enter also, like doers shall have like pay.  
5. Christ is for fellowship and communion with his people, 
Mat. 18.20.  (where two or three are gathered together in his name, there he is, in the midst of them) so Saints the friends of Christ desire fellowship with those that are Christ's: christians, this Lesson hath not been well learned of late, outward appearances like ourselves, ('tis feared) have drawn us many times more than Christ in Spirit dwelling in souls. That part of Arethmeticke division hath been in use too much, at least Numeration too little, we should be more like Christ were we more for society, I mean with Saints. David's Spirit was gracious and was much affected with such company, if like Christ sociable, but 'tis with Saints.  
6. Christ delights to see men holy, embracing truth, in this Saints are like Christ. Saint John rejoiced greatly that he found the children of the Elect Lady walking in truth, 
Epist. joh. 2.4  so this exercise was pleasing to Paul. 
Col. 1.3, 4.  We give thanks to God, and the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you, since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus, & of the love which ye have to all the Saints. As he rejoiced to see this amongst the Colossians, for it pleased him to see others followers of the Lord, 
1 Thes. 1.6  and embracing that truth which the churches of God embraced, 
1 Thes. 1.14.  to the exceeding growth of faith, and the abounding of charity each towards others; 
2 Thes. 1.3.  They that were holy amongst the Jews, rejoiced at the Gentiles conversion. And at this day there is no greater joy to Saints then to hear of others turning to the truth, and living holily. That which makes carnal men displeased, which is newness of life, pleaseth those that have received of the same life.  

Ezech. 33  7. Jesus Christ hates sin in every one, yet no man's person, he pities their persons, Why will you die O house of Israel? He loathed Jerusalem's sin, yet he wept over the city as pitying the people, sorrowing through foreseeing of the misery that was coming towards them ', and did afterwards befall them; They that are like Christ are thus qualified, they hate sin in all men, yet hate not the persons of any, no, not of their deadly enemies, but with Stephen they can desire eternal life, for those, that will not let them enjoy a temporal life, a crown for their enemies, that hale them to the cross; There's much of the image of Christ in those that to the utmost do good to the men, whose sins they hate; And though they seek the death of their sin, yet desire life, the life of Christ for their souls. Christ shown man most mercy, when he shown sinne none; he killed sin, and quickened man; A man may be merciful to his neighbour, yet strive to be a slaughterman to his sin: They must needs be like Christ, that from a gracious pity are helpful to others, and omit no means to do them any kindness, furthering the salvation of their souls, and good of their bodies, helping them in any thing, or way but what is sinful; 'Tis the calling of Saints to do good, yea to all, you have none of a more free spirit than they, they go up and down on this employment, 'tis the errand that Christ sends them on; Like Master, like Servants, all good, and their actions like themselves: The master cannot err, the servants may, but they shall be set right again; These are no cheats that do good to all, as much as possible they may, harm none, no not enemies; render to none evil for evil, but contrariwise blessing.  
8. Saints are very much like Christ in that they are courageous souls, courageous in what is good, not bad, some men have too much courage in an evil way, but to what is good they have no heart. 'Tis not so with the children of God, they die rather than yield to any baseness, shall such a one as I fly? a gallant speech of a noble soul, 
Neh. 6.11.  of one that believed God had given commandment to save him,; 
Psa. 71.3. Salvum me facias ab inimicis meis.  Daniel would not omit his duty, though he knew the Lion's den was to be his punishment. God should have his honour whatsoever he suffered; The three children feared not the wrath of the King, nor the fiery Furnace; God should not be dishonoured by them, they would die rather. Tyrant's may kill Saints but not conquer them. Christ was slain but not overcome, so it may be with those are Christ's; That's good metal will endure the fire; a good Ship that holds sound and firm in all storms; good cloth that shrinks not in wetting; wel-grounded colours that fade not; brave souls that nothing can daunt, discourage, or turn from the truth; one of these is better than a thousand, that have great words, but when hardship comes to be undergone prove low and weak; he's a friend that owns a man in need, and in a straight; he's a Saint that from inward grace is made so courageous that nothing shall separate him as from the love of Christ, 
2 Tim. 1.7  so from the work of Christ. The Mettle of a soldier is tried in the Battle, the spirit of a Christian in times of opposition.  
9 Christ is all for drawing souls to himself; 
Joh. 12.32  if he be lifted up from the earth he will draw men to him, he is not a scatterer, but a gatherer, I mean of souls. His business is to seek and to save, to find and preserve, he woes, and willing he is to marry souls, that they might be his for ever, christians in this are spirited like Christ, they endeavour to drive a trade for Christ's gain, they are for their master's profit, they love Christ, & find exceeding benefit by him, and they think others should love him also. Precious Christ is precious to them, and feign would they have him so to others. They have an enlarged heart, and an open mouth crying to souls, oh! love the Lord all ye people, turn in hither souls, come, buy wine, and milk without nonny, and without price, we have found Excellent entertainment from Christ, come; he will show you kindness; good souls will not conceal the bountiful mercy of the Lord, 
2 Chro. 7.9.  if they neglect to publish his goodness, they will say as the Lepers, we do not well to hold our peace; indeed they cannot but make mention of the name of the Lord. Christians are not tonguetied in setting out Christ's worth, they may be in speaking of themselves; sound and Gracious. Souls are sparing in speaking things tending to their own praise, but when occasion is offered to set out any thing for the honour of their Saviour, they want no words at lest no will, to enlarge themselves on such a theme. You people that would not be deceived in owning those that are right, that are afraid of a Devil appearing as an Angel of light, that feign would have a christian indeed your acquaintance, such souls are very likely to fit you, that are industrious in enlarging Christ's dominions, and are joyful when souls come in apace to Christ, for true Saints would have all men saved and come to the knowledge of the truth.  
Christians, whatsoever I have said of this use. I must yet wish you to beware. Pickpockets will be amongst honest men, cheaters amongst just dealers, and if the sons of men present themselves before God Satan is ready to be amongst them. Use. Secondly There may be an use of information given out; the Doctrine will afford it, and indeed the times considered, it may be seasonable and it manifesteth the ground and rise of persecution against Saints; wheresoever there are godly souls be sure there is some stir; 
Is. 50.15.  there is some fire a Kindling. He that departs from iniquity makes himself a pray, he's the but at which all the shooting is, all the hooting is at him. We hear of Paul's persecuting, but not of being persecuted all the time he walked according to the course of the world: but Christ being revealed in him, wrath is revealed against him, he being for Christ; enemies of Christ set against him in every place: 
Act. 20 23.  The more like Christ any is, and the more they own him and follow him, the more is the trouble that riseth against them: the sea-waves give the greatest dash against what opposeth them. The wind roareth most amongst those trees that 'tis stiffly opposed, all wicked people rage against such that any may hinder them in their wickedness. I dare challenge people in any city Country or village, that if they will speak truth, that they that are most Godly amongst them, are subject to most slanders, 
2. Tim. 2.  reproaches, and wrongs. I know wicked men have pretences for what they do against Saints: So had the Jews against Christ. 
Jo. 18.30  They tell Pilate, if he were not a malefactor, they would not have delivered him up unto him; Christ might have said to them as Themistocles to the Athenians, are ye weary of receiving so many benefits by one man? Paul had many grievous faults laid to his charge, as turning the world upside down, 
Act. 27.6.  setting all out of order, his enemies spoke as if all had been well, had it not been for him and such as he were: This Paul was a pestilent fellow, a mover of sedition all the world over, 
Act. 14.5.  high crimes to be accused of, and why was this? because Godly, that was the main thing that troubled Satan's slaves. Stepnen is accused for blasphemy & what was his blasphemy? 
Act. 6.14.  part is he should speak against the holy place and the law, and That Jesus of Nazareth shall destroy this place and change the customs which Moses delivered us. False witnesses, and men suborned laid this in against him; Knowing that it would mightily incense the people to hear of losing their customs. These carnal customs are so dear to carnal men that they are all in a rage if they hear any thing of losing them. Let Gospel go and Gospel owners perish, they care not, if they may keep their customs. It was a custom to have this and that: I count it not worth the naming what many contend about and persecute the Saints for. I could experimentally speak in this particular but I forbear; Doubtless the spirit of men is in every age spit out against truth, & they that now persecute Saints would persecute Christ as really as ever the Jews did, were his appearance now in flesh as then. Suppose Christ would not observe Christmas as the Popish generation calls it, suppose he would not read over a Dead corpse, suppose he would not give the Lords. Supper to any but holy and godly souls shutting out the covetous, ignorant, swearer, drunkard, reviler, unclean person etc. What would the world say of him? I speak low to your capacity, I might speak higher to men in higher place, & fully clear it, why good men are so persecuted; But hear Christ himself, I have given them thy word, 
Joh. 17.14.  the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world, as I am not of the world. See the cleaving to the word what it meets withal, it was not having the word in their houses or hand made them hated, but in heart and life, and walking contrary to the course of the world, for in body they were in the world, but in conversation they were averse to the world: in a word they through grace received did endeavour to glorify the God of all grace, this was fault enough, for all that will live godly must suffer tribulation. Christ was persecuted so shall they be that are Christ's, 
Cum ipso in angustia. Mat. 18.8. O bone Jesus, qic ure, hic percute; ut parcas in futuro-  thorns and briers are in the way to heaven, and they will scratch. Be not dismayed, Christ is gone thorough and he will help you, you were better go to heaven in a torn skin then to hell in a whole; Every scar that a Christian wears for Christ's sake, is heaven's badge, be not ashamed of them, if you be found in Christ's livery, you will be received into bliss. 
Erigat sese fidelis anima & parata sibi consideret bona.  Think of this you souls of honour, if you suffer with Christ you shall reign in glory with him; ponder of the glory when you are under the cross, it may quicken your almost tired spirits; I wish you may hold out in the suffering, and then I question not your glory; That you faint not nor be weary, the Lord grant that your heart's frame may be changed from what it is by nature, and turned into a Christ's frame what it should be by grace, your corrupt mind, into a pure mind; passion, turned into patience, pride, into meekness, loftiness, into lowliness, weakness, into strength, fearfulness, into courage; that so you may undauntedly undergo sufferings. Souls, I wish you well, howsoever you deal with me, I pray for you, and hope I shall; that God would count you worthy to suffer for his sake, which you shall certainly undergo in some measure if Godly. The Devils birders are abroad, 'tis the best birds they aim at, 
Quis nori● Daemonis astus?  his nets are laid, he cares not for catching dogs, 'tis heart, 'tis a precious dish in hell; yet be of good cheer souls, if you are truly good, Satan shall have none of you, you are reserved for the master's use, he hath need of you and will have you. Christians, the world is full of Blackmores, I mean black souls, if any white soul, viz. a gracious Saint appear, he's wondered at. Let the wicked wonder and hate, 
Deus moderator certantium & corona vincentium.  Christ observes and loves all that are his, and will preserve every hair, be of good comfort keep this precious soul-promise in your hearts. Suffering Saints, Christ brought it forth for you; 
Mat. 5.11, 12.  blessed are ye when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely for my sake; (saith Christ) rejoice and be exceeding glad; for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the Prophets, which were before you. So christians that suffer, you are not the first, there are some sufferers before, follow on there is a crown in readiness for you, and I would it were on your heads. I hope it will be, and then will you appear more clearly like Christ, for a crowned Christ and crowned Saints are very like each other.  
Use 3 I shall souls, put you to it now, in desiring you to consider who you are like, 
Christiani nomen frustra ille sortitur, qui Christum minime imitatur.  many go for Christ's people that are never a whit like him, neither fashioned like him within nor without; neither in speech, nor shape like him; nor yet in word nor conversation. Indeed they are more like Satan, and were it not for the name of christians, you would not know them scarcely from Devils, I am sure not from heathen. Their language speaks them not of the land of Canaan nor of Christ's flock, but rather Goats and aliens from, if not enemies to Christ. Earthly they are and not heavenly, he that is of the earth is earthly and speaketh of the earth. 
Joh. 3.13.  As ducklings have always their bills in the mud, swine their noses in the mire, every thing tends to what likes him, so carnal men. Travail upon the way and you shall find how familiar people of like dispositions are, gracious men for gracious company and discourse, worldly and carnal men abhor such company and communication, but if thry meet with such as are carnal, than they are pleased. Homogeneal things easily close, water will run with water in the same channel, dogs will play with dogs, & wolves with wolves, try men by their company; you may find a sheep amongst wolves, 'tis rare, unless they pray, to devour; Souls I will not judge you, you have a judge within you, bring the question you would have decided before him, if you will hear he will speak to the business, the sentence shall be impartial, it is conscience properly to say the truth be it for a man or against him; Ask conscience, how like Christ? ask conscience, whether such as you be are Saints? ask conscience, whether heavens glory have such as you? ask conscience whether you are skilled in Scripture, and whether you walk according to the word? whether you be company for Christ? do not misunderstand conscience, neither hearken to something else that is not conscience. Well dear friends, I must hasten; I will put but one Interrogatory to you, and end this Use; here are many people in this parish, some love the truth, others hate it, some are religious, some profane, some zealous, some but moral; who of these do you most affect? whose houses do you most frequent? whose sosciety is your delight? I know you can tell, I will conclude nothing: I know what I might, what I could say, but I forbear. Lovers see somewhat in the object that delights the affection, something that pleaseth them, I can guess what the man is if I am sure what he loves, 

Qualis amor tuus, talis ipse es.  
Amans & res amata fiunt unum.  
Si divina diligis efficieris divinus.   for the affection pitcheth upon somewhat suitable; he hath a heavenly heart that loves heavenly things, he may be said to be gracious that loves grace, and he a christian that loves Christ as Christ deserves, even with his whole heart; what company you now like you will have enough of hereafter, let it be good or bad. Pray God make you like Christ, then will you love him, and he will take you to himself; If that be not happiness judge you.  
Reproves the most of the world and Use 4 blames them for their self-deceiving, that think they are very holy yet no way like unto Jesus Christ. Blame I might open profane wretches; God knows the world is full of such that live in all riot and excess and hasten to hell, so of Civil men that go sleepily and without making any noise to destruction: and also of men and women contenting themselves with a form of Godliness, how sad is the condition of such? how blame-worthy are they that regard not their souls? They take up so much of Religion as will get them some countenance from God's people, but for God himself they care not. 
Psal. 75.4.  I may say to such as the Psalmist to his fools, deal not foolishly. For what will it advantage such to carry some esteem for a short time among men, and to their shame, nay confusion (its feared) be discovered at last? It is no comfort to a man in the end, that he was religious in show only. And as their end will be comfortless that have only the shell of goodneess, so theirs that are open profane, and also that are carelessly secure. You'll blame a child for losing a penny given to it, the very losing is blamed (the manner not considered) what may be said to such that lose their souls? as they may be blamed so pitied, but neither recovers them, they being once gone; out of hell is no redemption. Souls consider this; have you not a place for dust, & another for Gold? I may say, so hath God. He hath a hell for filthy sinners, & a heaven for pure Saints. God is upon his work of separation daily, you will all find what I say true, he is ready to try you. Take heed in the day of sifting you be not chaff, if you be, you will be burned in unquenchable fire. Like must to like, Christ and the Devil will have what belongs to them. Souls I desire your change speedily; for by nature you are all like Satan, you must be new cast, have another form, if like Christ. I cannot mend any of you by reproving (mending is Christ's work) yet I shall as enabled pray, that they that are not changed into the Image of Christ may be, and where 'tis begun it may be perfected.  
Quest. You it may be have a mind to ask me, why so few are like Christ, seeing 'tis such an excellent state, and also honourable & c?  
Ans. I may say because they have not received of the heavenly gift, & are not by heaven's hand polished. Besides, 'tis not the fashion of the world. To be holy is exceedingly out of fashion in these times; to be holy is to be singular, the last is to be wondered at, if not disdained; it sets all men a wondering to behold the assemblies of Saints. 
Psal. 38.5.  Sometimes besides wondering they are enraged against them; 
Reges terrae inito inter se consilio congregati sunt contra hanc Dei civitatem, ejusque cives pariter ad nos expugnandos convenerunt.  I shall spare any further discourse upon such that differ so much from Christ, I am sure if they never be made like Christ, they will wish they had, if they be changed into the like Image I need not bid them, their own graces will quicken them to praise the Lord. The first Doctrine is left to your meditation, I desire you may be as like Christ as the Doctrine is like truth; the next thing to present to your souls is this. Doct. 2 They that know Jesus Christ may know Saints. I know many questions might be propounded about this Doctrine but I omit them, what may be said of two men that are much a like, he that knows one may know the other, so he that knows Christ may know Saints. I know no one surer way to try men by then this, look well upon Christ, consider his graces, and all his endowments, 
●mor Dei est illud sigillum, quo Deus electos & credentes obsignat.  taste his sweetness, smell his savour & where you find that is like, what you find in Christ, conclude they are Saints. Men know their goods by the mark, their leases by the seal, servants by their livery, so may Saints be known by Christ. Study Christ well and thou wilt say such are Saints, let their appearances be what they will, let them be by name Jew or Gentile, circumcised or not circumcised, if Saints their graces will discover what they be. Christians judge not according to the flesh and forms, but according to the Spirit, a gracious soul is lovely to a gracious spirit, let it be of never so different judgement in some low things that are subject to vanish.  
They are children of one Father, Reas. descended of one Royal stock. Know the Eldest child well, you may know the Younges, consider of Christ's comeliness, & the Saints 〈◊〉 may the better appear, know the righteousness of Christ, and you may know holy Saints, the voice of Christ, and the voice of Saints. God gifts and  his children much alike, what the eldest hath the youngest hath the same, indeed the eldest is largesse; and the difference is only in the measure not in the manner; All grace is in Christ, and some in Saints. There's grace in all, head and members have life, every part of the body its ornament, so whole Christ, and this in holiness.  
Their employment is a like. Reas. Do you know the business of Christ? can you say this is the work of Christ, and herein he is exercised? Consider who acts like him, and then judge. Compare things together, the holy and heavenly work of Christ, let that be the pattern, esteem and commend those souls whose workings are most like the pattern. Children are commended that writ most like the Copy, and so is the Limner whose draught is most like the body, whose picture agrees best with the life. Suffer a word of exhortation. 
Eph. 5.1.  Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear childien, and walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us, an offering, and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling savour. Christ yeel'ds a sweet savour in his love, and in his obedience: 
2 Cor. 2.15.  so do Saints, they are unto God a sweet savour. Study Christ sound, and when you have done, see how men agree with Christ, and accordingly let them have the repute of Saints. Be not partial in your judging, but judge righteous judgement.  

Vuse.  You may now hint whence it is that Saints are no better known. I conceive it is because Christ is not known. Ignorance of Christ effecteth an ignorance of Saints. 
1 Cor. 2.8  Christ was killed by such that knew him not, and so are Saints. How many precious Jewels have been taken for dross, and so cast out? how many gracious souls esteemed not worthy to live? and why? because like Christ, 
Act. 22.22  both Christ and they taken for evil doers, for disturbers of the places where they come, yea sometime for blasphemers: you seldom see any reverence godly souls that yield not reverence to the God of souls; 
Joh. 16.2, 3.  that respect Saints that honour not Christ. Men that are farthest from Christ, are the lap-childrens of wicked men, if any have their respect they are such that are like themselves, ungodly. Good men, you complain of your slight, wrongs, and divers sufferings in the world; and complain you may: your sorrows are ungodly men's music; they never rejoice more than when the Saints tears run down fastest. This hath and will be the world's pastime, even goodmen's sufferings. Christ sufferings pleased the Jews hearty: so doth the sufferings of Christ's people, Jewish natures to this day. Men do they know not what, in wronging the dear jewels of God, and pluck on themselves a most heavy wrath from the God of Saints. The works of wicked men now are such as the wicked generations that went before, 
1 Thes. 2.15.  for they killed the Lord Jesus, and the prophets, and persecuted Saints, and all was because they were blinded of Satan, and the glorious Spirit of holiness shone not into their souls to give them the knowledge of Jesus Christ. How were it possible that men should be enemies to Christ or to Saints the friends of Christ, did they know what he hath suffered and undergone for souls? 
Amor è caelo ad terram eum traxit, ad columnam ligavit, cruciaffixit, sepulchro clausit, ad inferos at●raxit.  how out of love and pity he came down from heaven, underwent many a gracious suffering, and all to do poor wretched man good? but here is a sad sight, all is slighted of many. Is it not strange to hear a groaning Christ, and sinners mocking? a Christ wounded to the heart, and souls mad at heart against him? to see the everlasting Father dying, and yet the children of that Father abused, and that by such for whom the Father is suffering? It was an ungratful act of Joash to slay the child of Johoiada that had holp him to the Kingdom, but as the sufferer prayed, God acted & punished the wicked doer. God is just, wait his time, and then see what he will do to Christ and christian wronger's. You have need of patience you Christ-like souls, you are sufferers, you will be so in this world, you are not known neither is your Saviour, and indeed because your glory is hid, is it that your sufferings are open; but be of good cheer, God will help you, he knows Christ, and he knows you, he holp Christ, and will help you. I shall say only this to such that say they know not who are Saints, what these Saints mean they know not, etc. I fear you know not Christ, if it be so 'tis sad with you, and your state is miserable, and were I able this day to weep, I should willingly weep for such that know not the Lord Jesus Christ.  
Let not a form of worship bear overmuch Use 2 sway with you, and so think all Saints that are under such a form, and for all others to think that they are heathen, to suppose that they are without Christ because without such a form, a form affected by you; These forms of worship, I mean Idolising them, hath made a miserable stir amungst professors. The devil hath taken great advantage to nourish strife and discord amongst brethren by them, and he hath blasted charity abundantly, nay so much that some will not join in prayer with any unless of their form, nor hear the word unless from one of their judgement. Is this a knowing of Christ, & then Saints; or is it a knowing appearances, & Saints by them? The Lord reconcile Jew and Gentile. The foot may be loved though it be not an eye because 'tis of the body, so may a soul though of a different outward appearance because it belongs to Jesus Christ. In the body there are several members, yet are all useful in their places, wherein the Lord hath been pleased to place them: so it is in the several attainments and Administrations the Saints are under. All may be useful, and he that is in the lowest Attainment (especially that may be of some so judged) may there enjoy God, and be useful to the body, and though it see not with the eye, yet may it be a foot to help carry on the body. I could wish that we could more look after Christ, and where we find him esteem them Saints, whether they be circumcised or uncircumcised, whether bond or free. I know not why any should consider them that are in a low appearance & as 'tis judged in mean attainment. Who knows but Christ may be with them? if so, that's enough; if Christ ascend they shall ascend with him. Noah's Ark risen as the waters did: so shall Saints as Christ pleaseth to bear them up, and at length all forms shall die, and Christ to his appear all in all. For the resurrection and appearance of the Lord is the death of man, and the death of forms, and the death of flesh: for all these things are but shadows, and when Christ clearly appears they shall be abolished. The Lord make out his appearance clearly, that so we may know him, and by knowing him know those that are his, and from a right knowing, love, and love increasing, our mutual joy may abound in the Lord.  
Would you souls be taken for Saints? Use 3 do you desire the people of God should have such an esteem of you indeed? You must be like Christ, or they durst not own you under that name, you must be anointed with that anonting he is anointed withal, 
Ro. 8.9.  you must have the same spirit within and you must be fashioned without like Christ, 
Omnis vita nostra conformis illi reddatur, qui examore nostri totum sae nobis conformavit.  your conversation must be holy and as becometh the Gospel. Two cannot walk together except they agree saith God; now what agreement can be between Christ and belial? between the wolf and the lamb? what agreement was there between Saints and Paul all that time he persecuted? could Saints take him for a Saint then; No, he must be made a new creature, he must be changed, Christ must be revealed in him. Some of you are angry because you are debarred from something that is the privilege of Saints. Pray know this, God's sheep are known by his mark, show your mark, let appear that your spot is the spot of God, and such as he puts on his flock. Every man may not sit in Parliament, is such that are chosen, and sent, so not every one may fit in the assembly of the righteous, but such that are called, and chosen, and faithful.  
Obj. You will object it may be and say, what do I think you are not holy? do I not take you for Christians? do I think th' you have not a care to serve God and live holily? do not we (you'll say keep our church as much as any? do not we pray and hear? We were formerly taken for good people, and there was no exception, what must we, now be suspected? must our faith be now called in question? scuh things Carnal people object.  
Ans. Souls from this plea I cannot say you are Saints. I know many a Nominal Christian goes to hell, many go to Church (as they style the house of public worship) & are never the more reform, 
Eccl. 8.10  they continue wicked and are unregenerated it may be for all this. 
Ro. 2.28.  I may use Paul's words; He is not a Jew which is one outwordly, neither is that Circumcisition, which is outward in the flesh; 

Qui tantum professione externa & nuncupatione est Judaeus, non coram Dei judicio consetur Judaeus sed is solus, etc.  
Non qui est in operto Christianus is Christianus est nec qui est in aperto tantum baptismus, is baptismus est etc.   Now know this that the meaning is I conceive, He is not a true Jew or true Israelite, viz. gracious, that can only plead his natural birth or the cutting off the foreskin of his flesh, neither is he a true Christian, that is so by name only, and borne in a Christian country, and that hath received the outward badge being sprinkled with water. Paul discovered how little such outward things profited, when he renounced all fleshly Confidence; 
Phil. 3.4  Though he could plead as great fleshly privileges as any, yet he counted all as nothing worth in comparison of Christ. When he had received Christ, 
Eph. 5.13  he saw clearly by that light, that manifests all things, that all natural endowments and enjoyments without Christ were of no benefit to the soul. Now as Paul, though comparing them with Christ counted them dung and dross, yet he did not detract any thing from the endowments and enjoyments themselves. 
Haec nihil detrahunt dignitati sacramentorum, etc.  No more would I from the name Christian, or from public meetings or, from baptism, but wiling I am to give all their due; so that Christ be not robbed but acknowledged all and in all. I must tell you souls, they are fools and unwise that pride themselves in any thing that is not very Christ. Baptism is nothing, if a soul hath not Christ; a Sermon is nothing, preaching nothing, if Christ be not preached; the name Christian nothing, if Christ be not in the soul. The sum of the sum of all is Christ. 'Tis a common fault (God weed it out of men's hearts) for men to vatut in some outward thing, and glad many are if they can denominate themselves of this or that opinion or judgement, or of this or that man as a hearer, follower or of his Congregation, or got into some attainment that bears high amongst professors. I shall only say this, beware you do not deceive yourselves, Christ is all, and all you must have Christ, or you will perish eternally. I might have added several Reasons why Saints are so wary who they take into their fellowship, as that they will not take in such that bear a name only, and in life and conversation are sensual carnal, heathenish, devilish, nor such as barely believe only a Christ without: that can speak of the letter of scripture and the history of Christ but, have not a Christ manifested within, but I shall not stay here much; for Saints them already; and for others, they (as Swine pearls) will tread them under their foot; they will scorn them as that they savour of over much strictness and novelty; it may they will say of Independency and Anabaptism. But a word of them.  
1. It is uncomfortable to Saints to take them into fellowship that have not a Christ within. Is it not uncomfortable living for a living man to be yoked to a dead body, and to have dead men for his Company What are men without Christ but dead men, 
Eph. 2. 1. Joh. 1.22.  souls without life stinking, rotten loathsome souls that have no comeliness?  
2. It is dangerous to Saints to join in any intimate fellowship with such, by reason they are infectious persons; a body infected with the plague is not more apt to infect men's bodies, then sinful vile souls are such that nourish fellowship with them. 
ps. 18.29.  Men are very apt to fashion themselves like those with whom they converse and live, to imitate their words and actions, and to be confederate in their do, and so alured or enticed from what is right and agreeable to the perfect rule of the word.  
3. It is scandalous, for if such be taken into fellowship and church society that are vile or that have but a form of Godliness, and so adorn not the profession of the Gospel, how doth it give ungodly men occasion to speak evil, and to open their mouths against the way of the Saints, and to stand out so much the more stiffly by way of oppossition against truth, because of some bad ones got into outward society that have not the inward enjoyment of truth. Saints had need beware (upon this consideration) who they take into church-fellowship, that so it be not such that by falling off from holiness give offence, but such that are held in by the power of truth to the credit of truth, and truths professors with whom they are in communion.  
Souls you that know Christ look about you; consider of men rightly; take a serious consideration of them; 
Sanctam vitam cum ip so amant. Discite a me quia mitis sum & humilis cord. Sivis esse adoptivus Dei filius, vide quomodo conversetur filius ille unigenitus.  & take them for Saints that are like Christ, such that are like holy as Christ is holy, pure as Christ is pure, precious as Christ is precious, sweet & lovely, comely beautiful as Christ, gentle & lowly as Christ they that are Christ's are like Christ. The adopted sons of God like the only begotten son of God, the younger brothers like the Elder, Saints like their Saviour, Christ is humble, gentle, loving, merciful, full of bowels of kindness and goodness, they that are Saints indeed are like him, he it is they strive to imitate, he they look unto as their rule, 
Sancta Christi vita, est perfecta vitae nostrae regula.  he is the pattern they have always before them. I guide you not to this or that form, attainment, opinion, judgement, or the like, to find Saints; but I point out to you Christ, and if you see any like him esteem them: if you find any that have the same spirit as Christ, 
ubi spiritus unus, ibi eadem voluntas; ubi voluntas eadem; ibi etiam actiones eaedem.  that have the same will, the same actions look on them & love them, and for Christ's sake esteem them; because they are like Christ the very image of Christ. The main resolution of their souls, and actings of the body is to know God, and promote his glory, to ascribe praises to him, to do good to Saints, to put forward whatsoever is agreeable to his will with all their might. 
Si propter Christum proprio honori, proprio amori, propriae voluntati. in hac vita renuncias, Christus in futura, sui honoris, sui amoris compotem te faciet.  'Tis not men's frowns, 'tis not allurements, 'tis not losses, 'tis not Crosses can deter them from the work of God: they know if they deny themselves seeking here not their own honour nor self advancings, but following the advice of Christ, observing his will, doing his work, laying out themselves wholly for him, he will reward them, by giving out unto them of his honour, of his love, and the like in the world to come. I shall leave you now to the search and finding out of Saints, by the wisdom of Christ owning and esteeming such for Saints that are like Jesus Christ, they that know Christ may know Saints. And so much shall suffice to be spoken of that second Doctrine. We shall as God shall enable us by his spirit give out somewhat more from the Text that may be of further use & comfort to souls, which is this.  
Saints brought to heaven shall not have another being, Doct. 3 only a perfecting of what is begun on earth. They have a glory already in them, upon them, 
Joh. 17.22.23.  even the glory that was given to Christ, in heaven they shall have more abundant glory. They have Somewhat for breeding, as heirs under age, not come to their full inheritance, yet growing to a ripeness of years and so to a possession of the inheritance, even a knowledge of the excellencies of God and Christ fully and clearly, yea and of their own excellency by virtue of union and communion with Father and son; For than shall that glory be manifest and apparent above, which is not so manifest and apparent below. Christians have some light now, though but small, they have part of what they shall enjoy in perfection; they now see though but darkly, than face to face, clearly; They enjoy visions of God though in a cloudy and dark manner. God and glory are revealed but in part to Saints whilst here on earth, and all they see and know is but dark and imperfect, to what they shall see and know: God communicates and makes out of his fullness to those are his here on earth, but the communication and making out of all fullness itself is only above in glory in the highest heavens, when they shall be brought to dwell with Christ to behold his glory, and inherit that marvellous Light, the brightness of which yet we are not able to behold. Christians have had, and still have, as much of God here, as such vessels could hold: here Saints are narrow-hearted, and dim-sighted, and cannot entertain so much, nor see so clearly as they shall when they arrive at heaven, where their hearts shall be enlarged, and their sight made fit, as to receive much, so to behold much of the excellencies of Glory.  
Souls, Use. consider what I am now about to speak to you: have you a being now like the Saints in glory, yea like Christ in glory, is the life of glory begun here? is there any sparks of that heavenly fire kindled in you? any drops of that fountain? hath the light shined into you that shines in heaven? have you that joying you now hear on earth? that joys Saints in bliss above? hath a sight of God made you large to see more of him? can you say with the Psalmist, 
Psal. 63.1, 2.  My soul thirsteth, and my flesh longeth for thee, to see thy glory, so as I have seen it in the sanctuary? hath glimpse of beauty taken you? any thing of Christ delighted you?  
1. Pray try what is in your inward man? do you find any light of love shining in? are you warmed with any of this heavenly heat? 
1 Joh. 4.12.  I cannot press this too much: doth God dwell in you? you are not like him if there be not indwellings of God himself. I do not so much regard what you are without and in appearance. I would have you somewhat within. There is great glory in heaven, there must be some glory in your souls here; yea and it must be such glory as is in heaven, glory shines in Saints more clearly above, here it shines though but dimly, and they that shine here a little as sparks shall shine exceeding brightly as the Sun in the kingdom of their Father, 
Mat. 13.43.  here (if we are as we should be and such that shall increase in goodness, & have an addition to our joy) we have some inward taste and feeling of the blessed comforts of God. Beloved that which I speak to you of, concerns your souls, take heed they be not empty, take heed they be not void of all goodness, destitute of the love and sweet communion of God through Jesus Christ. You know how it sped with the five foolish Virgins that had no oil in their lamps: let what befell them make you beware. 'Tis a wiseman's part to refrain from that way which others have perished in; unclean birds may have gaudy outsides, the plain feathered fowl may be wholsomest, beware that no man deceive you, 
Psal. 51.6. Psa. 51.10. Innova in interioribus meis spiritum rectum.  and also be cautious that you wrong not yourselves, know this that God desireth truth in the inward parts; and a pure inside; a clear heart was one thing David petitioned for, this you should ask, and this you must possess if ever it be well with you. That soul is as it should be when 'tis the seat, throne, and dwelling of God.  
2. Are your souls raised from the dead? is there a power put forth in you, and that an exceeding great power, whereby you are delivered from sin, Satan and self, and unable to walk as Spiritually alive according to the will of God. Souls in glory are free souls, raised souls, souls set on high, souls exceedingly spiritualised, wholly spiritual, active, souls in glorifying and praising God, 'tis their oontinual employment, they cease not, they are always busied in what tends to God's praise. Is there any likeness to this in you? are you fetched out of darkness? set at liberty? made able for the work of God? Freemen are first Apprentices, Apprentices are in the way to freedom, what are Saints in heaven but freemen? such that have served out their time on earth: consider christians are you bound to God? doth he teach you? do you now serve him? are you wholly his? do you not serve Satan, world, nor self, but God? it will be but a few years but you shall be advanced higher, advanced into sublime and transcendent glory, to sit with Saints, and there with your fellow-brethrens to sing Hallelujahs for evermore.  
3. Is there a prising of the things of glory? They that are like Christ, esteem, love, prize, the things of Christ, and what Christ doth esteem, love, prize; they esteem creature things in their places as they ought; yet all these are but dung and dross in comparison of the excellencies of grace and glory. Soul-necessities are not satisfied with creature-things: they free not from corruption, they reveal not the love of God, nor ease the soul of its trouble; if troubled for want of the loving kindness of the Lord. Saints in glory are delivered from all misery and enjoy fullness of consolation, they that are going glory-ward shall be eased, shall have their full of joy: they eye the pleasures and bliss of heaven, they have thoughts upon them, they are much taken up with them in their meditations. Saints in heaven are pleased with the visible glory they enjoy. Saints on earth are pleased, in that through faith they believe there is a reward laid up for them, that they shall possess an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, 
1 Pet. 1.4.  and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for them. Souls you know what you prise, what is delightful to you, you can tell whether earthly, or heavenly, carnal or spiritual things: surely if drawing towards heaven, they are heavenly things delight you; they that are in glory rejoice in their glorious enjoyments, they that are in grace going to glory, rejoice through faith in believing what is laid up for them, and what they shall enjoy: they expect the accomplishing of promises; and their accomplishing, tends to gracious souls advancing, and crowning in glory with an everlasting diadem. Consider of this I pray, take much care in trying whether you be in the right way to perfect peace: you would not willingly be cozened in any earthly things, beware you be not cheated in this that concerns your souls, and so lose your souls: if you should, I need not say you are undone, you will to your sorrow find it; but I hope you will be careful in this. I can but advise, 'tis God must make you wise; I can but instruct, 'tis the Lord must make you to receive instruction. Try all things, try earthly things, you will see them vanity, try Spiritual things, God grant you knowledge to discern, and wisdom to prize and hold fast what is good.  
Use 2 Is to speak comfort to souls. What Revelations, have you now; you shall have more; what discoveries of love now you shall have more large manifestations hereafter; God speaks good to souls now, and gives in somewhat of love, but 'tis here a little and there a little, now and then a drop to keep their hearts open; but in heaven God comunicates all at once: here he gives out what he gives in degrees, & according to Saints capacity to receive; but in heaven the whole shall be possessed, that God hath in store for them that love him; they shall have perfect holiness, complete happiness, and pure spirituality. 
Animorum summa puritas, stupenda corporum charita, etc.  There natures shall be spotless, and there actions blameless, an orient splendour and matchless brightness of resplendent light shall cover the whole man as a garment. Oh what an infinite, unconceivable, and unparallelled gladness throughout the soul, spirit, & whloe man will this occasion? Saints here desire much, and have somewhat of heaven's excellency but their desires are not fully satisfied, 
Quicquid desiderare poterunt electi, illic invenient: quia coram a fancy ad faciem intuentur eum qui est omnia.  and in heaven they shall have their full, insomuch that desires shall cease, not longing after more, for God shall communicate himself fully and at once to Saints there. Saints have now some beauty, some comeliness, they are in part sanctified, but in heaven they shall be fully sanctified, all glorious, this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality, and then conceptions of evil shall not be in souls, there shall be no unsoundness of judgement, nor taints of error, no impurity nor imbecility of affections in glory. Saints love to Christ, shall not be cold, weak and feeble, but it shall be hot, strong, perfect, they shall be without any imperfection. Nothing in them, or what is done by them shall be blame-worthy, 
Similes erimus ipsi Deo benedicto in seculum.  they shall be like the blessed God for ever. Is not this a word of comfort now? will it not be much more a precious soul-rejoycing to enjoy this purity, this samctity, this holiness, of being made a excellent beautiful like Angels, 
Angelis & sibi ipsi nos similes reddit.  yea like God himself? There shall be nothing amiss in the soul; it shall be all glorious: no blindness, lameness, deafness, nor crookedness, nor infirmity shall be on the body: the bodies of Saints in glory that be handsome, fair, comely, beautiful; yea like unto the glorious body of Christ: 
Phil. 3.21.  yea, and which is more, they shall in the whole body be like unto his glorious body.  

Eadem corpora, quae hic cum Christo crucifixa sunt, una cum Christo in caelesti beatitudine glorificantur.  These very bodies of Saints that suffer now with and for Christ, shall with Christ in heavenly bliss be glorified with him; yea they shall have such glory as he hath. This Souls I shall leave to you to admire. I cannot sufficiently and to the full in words discover it to you; 'Tis a wonder to think that they that are gracious and so like Christ here, should be in heaven as handsome bodied as Christ is, 
— Gloria nulla lingua satis explicari potest.  and have as comely a person and feature as he himself has, whom the Father loves dearly, that their bodies shall be in all places like to Christ's body. Beloved, may not this encourage us in trouble, to venture life and limb for God, rather than that God should lose his glory; seeing that he can make up all again, and supply all wants, and will make every one perfect at last: and also not to be troubled as concerning Death, with any uncomfortable thoughts of worms eating and destroying the flesh, with rottenness seizing upon the body, and the like; knowing that Christ at last will restore all perfect.  
2. Saints, you have now some wisdom and knowledge, you shall have more abundant, you shall have more wisdom, 
Isa Dei sapientia seipsam eis ostendet, etc.  you shall have clearer knowledge in the things of God and Christ, and of heaven; surely knowledge is an excellent thing, especially Divine and Heavenly knowledge, knowledge in the mystery of salvation. What is it that some would not give for knowledge now in Arts and Tongues, and in Scripture-truths, yea to know God rightly? In heaven Saints you shall have an exquisite and perfect knowledge of God; ye shall see him not only mentally and contemplatively, but also with the bodies eyes corporally; so Job, 
Job 19.25, 26.  I know that my Redeemer liveth, and that he shall stand at the latter day upon the earth. And though after my skin, worms destroy this body, yet in my flesh shall I see God: Whom I shall see for myself, and mine eyes shall behold, and not another; This Christians I conceive may make your long to be eager after heaven, and exceedingly rejoice to think you shall see God, to see God as he is in himself, and as he Is in you; And all this in a spiritual manner, for all knowledge in heaven shall be spiritual. I might enlarge myself more on this, but I forbear according to what of God is given in to you, such is your knowledge already, and as God shall be revealed, knowledge shall increase, and at last you shall in glory know as you are known.  
3. Saints shall in heaven have a full fruition of Christ, a full sight of their sweet Saviour, 
Chridum videre, superabit omniagaudia. Superabit omnia cordis nostoi desideria.  such a sight that shall give in unspeakable joy, such enjoyment that shall bring more joy than heart can wish; no tongue can express, no heart can conceive what consolation they have that shall enjoy Christ and dwell with him for ever. To see Christ to dwell and be with Christ, brings to souls wounderful happiness. This makes souls cry out how long Lord Jesus is it ere thou wilt bring us to glory, where we may have beauty presented to our sight, sweetness to our taste amongst men, 
Pulchritudo erit visui, mel gustui, cithara auditui, balsanum olfactui, flos actui.  music to our ear, what is odoriferous to our smelling, and delightful to be touched and handled, the soul also filled with light, and comfort, every faculty having what is pleasant to it given out freely and fully; O blessed condition! O sweet life! O happy being! to be brought into the Court of the glorious God, to the society of Saints, 
Jesus Christ, sponse animaemeae suavissime.  into the bosom of sweet and blessed Jesus, the loving, and ever-glorious husband to blessed souls! Love is abundantly shown on earth by Christ to those that are Christ's, in their affairs to direct them, in their troubles to help them, in their dangers to deliver them; in bestowing divers and excellent benefits both of grace and nature, and of creature-things: likewise in disappointing the dangerous devices of enemies, in frustrating the subtle and crafty plottings of Satan, in beating down the power of corruption and the like: here is much of mercy and goodness in all this, but the crown and perfection of all, is the bringing, seating, crowning of souls in glory. How beautiful are souls in that day! how glorious! how lifted up! how exalted! how honoured when they shall not alone see Christ, but they shall live with him! Not alone, behold him in a Throne at the right-hand of the majesty on high, but they shall be seated in Thrones with him! Rejoice O souls in the meditation of this, let the consideration hereof be sweet and pleasant to you, for you shall be ever with Christ the Lord; 
Ibi summa & certa securitas, secura tranquillitas, tranquilla jucunditas, jucunda felicitas, felix aeternitas, aeterna beatitas. Gaudium erit sine tristitia, quod continet aeternam laetitiam, salus erit sine dolore, vita sine labore lux sine tenebris, amor nunquam tepescet; gaudium nunquam decrescet; gemitus non audietur, neque dolor sentietur, triste nihil videbitur, l●●i●●a semper habebitur, etc.  with Christ the glorious; there shall you be safe, there shall you have delight, there shall you have happiness and that eternal happiness and everlasting blessedness, all good, all the excellent enjoyments of heaven shall be endless, light endless, joy endless, pleasure endless, friendship endless: and as endless, so pure without mixture; there shall in Christ's Arms, in Christ's presents be joy without sorrow, health without grief, life without labour, light without darkness, continual fresh and flourishing love, abounding joy, mourning shall not be there, neither shall there be any grief, sorrow or sadness or any such thing. I desire to speak more clearly of these things but I cannot utter them as they deserve, you that have had any refreshing from Christ here, can best judge and discern what it is to possess him wholly, and live with him altogether.  
4. Christians, in glory you shall have much happiness arise to you from the sweet communion and blessed fellowship you shall have with Saints, you know some Saints now and you take some delight in their company, you are glad when you can meet with them to converse and talk with them, and to join in ordinances, your joy in these things shall be much more abundant, for you shall know all the blessed Saints in glory: they that were taken up thither before you, and they that shall come thither after you, shall be known of you, and you known of them. All Saints shall be known of every particular Saint, and every particular Saint shall be known of all, in coelo nullus erit alienus, there shall be no stranger in heaven, a Saint there shall have as much acquaintance as all the Saints in glory may afford, & as many friends as there are Saints. You that now desire communion with holy souls, shall have your fill of familiarity; you that joy to see and meet with Saints now, shall have your joy increased. Christians on earth complain of the strangeness of other Christians, but in heaven there shall be no cause of such complaints: as we shall be joined one to another, and all to the Lord, 
Nemo ibi laediiur, irascitur nemo, invidet nemo, cupiditas nulla exardescit etc.  so shall we love one another in the Lord. In glory none shall hurt other, none shall envy other, none shall desire others good: for every one shall have enough, even his fill of good; and shall rejoice to see one another happy: consider I pray what love to Saints now; what delight in their company; what refreshment to see the faces of Saints; and enjoy the fellowship of sanctified souls, if it be right, if truly spiritual, and what it should be. It will hereafter satisfy you to the full when you shall have the perfect knowledge of all Saints. Let this comfort you against worldly men's slight, yea and good men's shiness; as for worldlings slight care not, they are such that shall be shut out from the presence of God and fellowship of Saints. And for any Saints shiness be not grieved, it will not long continue: in heaven there is no such thing there all Saints shall be kind each to other, shall know each other perfectly, and love each other sincerely and truly. Happy are they that have some beginnings of sanctified love and communion with the holy and beloved ones of Jesus Christ now; it shall increase and be more abundant, as they grow up in Jesus. Rejoice in this Christians, you shall see, know, have fellowship, dwell with for ever, all blessed Saints, such as, Abraham, 
Mat. 8.11  Jsaac, Jacob, Noah, David, Daniel, Paul, Sarah, Rebeccah, the Virgin Mary etc. you shall know their persons, names, natures, Excellencies, delight in them, and they in you. I shall speak no more of this Use. Use 3  
Thirdly, 
Si in hac vita non gustes aeternae felicitatis initium, nunquam plenum percipies complementum.  let me give out somewhat by way of reproof to such men, that think they shall go to heaven, and hope they shall dwell in glory hereafter, yet despise nothing more than what is heavenly, and what tends to help them thither; let such be assured that they that have not some taste and relish of heavenly things now, and delight in them will never have their full sotiety in glory. Do you think to go to heaven that now hate holiness, and speak evil of the ways of the Lord? That abhor Saints, as bad as the sight of Toads, what will you do in heaven? you cannot abide praises & hallelujahs and the glorious exercises of Saints, you cannot endure the fellowship of holy men and women, you abhor them now, yet they are not so pure as they shall be; and then doubtless you will loathe them more. Do not some of you abhor being in places and amongst people where Godliness is in exercise? do you not delight to be where you may drink and swell, sing and roar, card and dice, hunt and hawk, mock and jeer, scoff and deride goodness and goodmen? nay if it were in your power, would you not kill & slay the Saints? do you not defy their ways, courses, and behaviour, yea and that because holy, pure, sincere, upright and such as are becoming the Gospel of the blessed God? Consider, I pray, yourselves whether you are not such that God himself reproves, 
Ps. 50.17.  for hating instruction and casting his holy and heavenly council behind your backs, and for letting your mouth be open to speak evil, yea and that against the righteous? Do you think that God will set such with himself in glory hereafter, that now cast aside his council, that will not be instructed by him? honour such with his Saints that now despise them? place such in the kingdom of glory that now abhor the heirs of glory? No, no, he hath a place for such naughty wretches to put them by themselves, 
Psal. 9.17 Aeternis addicti suppliciis.  they shall be turned into hell; there the being of wicked men shall be; Think of this you Saint-haters, you Sermon-despisers, you wicked mockers and scoffers at goodness, you that are the wretches prophesied of, that should be brought forth and come into the world in the latter days, that should appear unholy, and that should be haters of such as are good; 
2 Tim. 3.1, 2, 3.  What is it that some of you would do to the conscionable imbracers of holiness, were they in your power? would you not imprison them, famish them, slay them, show much cruelty to them? and would you not pluck down the pure preaching of Jesus Christ, and obstruct the perfect and upright walking of Saints? are not your hearts now against such men, and such do? and do you not wish your hands at liberty to act some enterprises against what is holy & good? against that which you call Sects and Factions, and against such as you say bring all out of order, that turn the world upside down? I know not your thoughts within, you are privy to what dwells in your own breast. Paul was once as violent against goodness and goodmen as any of you, and doubtless had he been then asked, what Saul dost thou think will become of thy soul? dost thou think thou shalt go to heaven? that thou shalt dwell with the everliving God? with holy Angels and blessed Saints? he would have said he hoped he should go to heaven as soon any man living; but had the Lord let him go on in his way, & not showed him mercy, what had he come of his soul? Let this be digested in your souls: and know that glory and eternal happiness is provided for such that are washed, for such that are sanctified, for such that are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, & by the spirit of our God: and such must you be, if ever brought to heaven. You are by nature vile, filthy and naked; 
Nuda erat sponsa, nec poterat ad regale caelestis regni palatium ita nuda introduci; Ipse induit eam vestimentis salutis & justitiae. Juimicum erat sponsae genus caelesti patri sed ipse illud per acerbissimam passionem patri reconciliavit. Cant. 5.21 Erit ibi praesentia omn●s mali & erit a●●●tia om●●boni.  you must be clothed as Saints, with the robes of righteousness and garments of salvation if brought into the Palace of glory, the dweling of the great God where he sits on his Throne and all his blessed Saints about him. I have this comfort yet of such that are enemies to God and what is good, That it is in the power of the Lord for to change them, he can instruct them to repentance, and call them to holiness, and reconcile them to himself: but should not the Lord thus work upon you that are revilers, slanderers, persecutors, and the like, you shall not inherit the Kingdom of God, but you would be cast away into utter darkness into unspeakable torments, to be tormented with the Devil and his Angels, into such a place of suffering, where you should have no mercy, no good, no comfort, no ease, no friend, no pity: Miserable, miserable, beyond expression, miserable shall they be in torments for ever, that now torment the holy ones of the Lord, and the blessed members of Christ by their evil speakings and evil do: such shall be punished with everlasting destruction, 
2 Thes. 1.9  and be deprived of all mercy and comfort; I speak not these things to trouble you, but in pity to admonish you, and my prayer shall be tha● the Lion may lie down with the Lamb, that from Comings in of truth into your souls, you may be overcome of truth, and so submit to it, that you may sweetly accord and friendly agree with the children of truth, and all that in truth profess truth; That you may speak and act the same things, and that there may be no divisions amongst you: as you hope to dwell with the Prince of peace, and with the Saints of peace, now live peaceably; follow after peace, and what may make for quietness in the ways of God. Seeing you are apt to say, you have hopes to be saved; do like them that shall be saved: harm not, but help such that are beloved of him that must save you if ever saved; Consider of what hath been said & the Lord give you aright understanding of all things, that may make you holy, gentle, courteous, peaceable, in life; and also honourable, blessed, happy and glorious for ever.  
Use 4 The life of Saints upon earth is a rare life, an excellent, holy, and heavenly being, a being that tends to the glory, honour and praise of God, to the exalting of his great mercy and goodness, and declaring his name and power: 'tis a life wherein men that are holy, labour to improve themselves with all that is theirs in a way of duty to be serviceable to the God of holiness; As they have beginnings of the life of glory in the kingdom of grace, so according to what is begun and the gift given do they act, here in grace suitable to what is done in glory. They are not perfect here, they have their failings, yet by the come in of God they strive to be like God, and according to the gifts of the Spirit, are they spiritual exercised; they are spiritual in their prayers; spiritual in their preaching; spiritual in their hearing, spiritual in their conversation; striving to walk after the Spirit, endeavouring to give up their all, to Christ that is all and in all. All their wisdom, all their might, all their strength, all their endowments, all their places, all of soul, all of body, all of liberty, riches, honour, in a word, all. Christ hath done so much for them that they think, they can never do enough for him, they think, they can never praise him enough, nor extol him as they ought, nor give the honour that is due to him. They are always complaining of deadness, and darkness, and weakness, and inability to behold, to admire, to commend, to advance the sweetness, goodness, mercy and comforts that Christ gives out to them: they are longing for more abilities to serve the Lord Jesus. Feign would they do, as they in glory do, and they wait daily, earneastly expecting to be brought to glory that they may enjoy that in fullness which here they have in part, and that fullness being enjoyed, employ it to the honour and praise of the giver. Souls, they are not common men that live the life of Saints, neither is their life a common life. Saints are jewels, jewels are excellent things: there is that in a jewel that is not in ordinary and common stones: jewels have an excellency in them, so have Saints; and this excellency is useful, to Christ, and what Christ adviseth. The Excellency in Saints is given into them from Christ, and as is comes from Christ, it is altogether for returning to Christ. Christ in giving out his Excellency to Saints, doth open his heaet to Saints and doth also open Saints hearts. The one is opened for goodness to go forth, the other for goodness to come in; and goodness being received in, will not lie still: it will set such that have it upon employments suitable to the will of Christ, as by receiving what is Christ's: 'tis in some measure changed into the likeness of Christ: by receiving Christ's love, the hearts of such receivers are changed into the nature of Christ's heart, and so become heavenly, heavenly within, and being heavenly within, it will be heavenly without: The fruit like the seed, Saints like Christ. Excellent things are spoken of Saints in glory, so of Saints on earth. The behaviour of Saints in glory is very commendable. They enjoy perfection, and from that perfection act; The amiableness and admirableness of God's presence, draws out all the abilities of Saints when in heaven to act answerable unto the Law's nearness, and dearness of such a relation as is between God and them. So here on earth such that enjoy God though they cannot do for God so immediately and fully, yet it is their desire to close with God, and to give out themselves to God; and to carry themselves in-offensively in the world, and as much as in them lies to do good to all; Excellent things are spoken of the City of God, of the holy Jerusalem, of the Lamb's wife, of she that is a dressing, a making ready for to be joined to Christ. She is beautiful now, but she shall appear more beautiful, she is fair and pleasant, and now the delight of Christ, his love, his dove, his undefiled; she shall be the same in heaven, only this more perfect. Christ's spouse, his Sister, his dove, is but one, she that is his on earth, shall be his in glory, she that is his fair one here, shall be his glorious one above, that now is his bosom friend, shall be his Throne-companion. 
Throni sui compos.  The desires (I know) of all you that are Godly, that are some of Christ's holy ones, (speak experience) is, that your sweet Saviour would now raise all your desires to him, fasten all your thoughts upon him, draw all the powers of your souls up on high to him, free you from every weight that holdeth you down, knit you to him with a knot of love, that so your joy in the enjoyment of him might be abundant, your fellowship with Saints sweet, your daily walking heavenly, giving occasions to all that are Godly to magnify God on your behalf; Look to it Souls, you are in some measure glorious now, if you are such that shall appear with Christ in glory hereafter: That glory is sparkled in now, which shall shine in clearly and apparently: you have now some beams, shortly the full light of the clear and glorious Sun himself. For the ever-blessed and glorious God will let in such a light, such a clear light, such a great light, and withal give such a great strength of light unto Saints, that they shall be wholly light, and in them shall be no darkness at all. Beloved, I now commend you to God, that can make you children of Light, and enable you as children of Light to walk in Light, to the praise of his great name, and to the refreshing of the bowels of God's people, to the rejoicing of all that delight in goodness. Christ's Saints are all rare pieces, God grant all these pieces may be set in order, fitly united together, then will glory appear, exceeding glory, transcendent glory, glory in the Church, glory on earth like that glory that is amongst the Saints that are Triumphant in heaven. I shall say no more of that Doctrine: I shall yet give out somewhat from the Text that may be further useful to your souls, and it is this.  
Doct. There are some precious souls in the world, in this sinful world, in this wicked, vile, ignorant and naughty world, 
Joh. 17.24 1 Joh. 5.19. Joh. 12.31. & 14.20.16.11. 2 Cor. 4.4. Isa. 5.14. Mat 7.13. Jer. 3.14. Rom. 11.5 Luke 12.32. Rev. 3.4. Col. 2.22. 1 Joh. 5.5. Joh. 1.13.  in this world wherein Satan bears such sway, who is the Prince of the world, a chief one in it so fare as it is a sinful world and inhabited with sinful men. The Devil hath many, nay the greatest part; yet God hath some, a remnant, here and there one, a little flock, a few that are undefiled and that are lovely before him, that have kept their garments clean, that are unblameable, & unreprovable before him, they have overcome the world, being borne, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. Every age (though it hath brought forth never so many weeds, though it hath abounded in trash yet) hath borough forth some precious flowers, some jewels have been found amongst the rubbish. In the first degenerate age, there was an Abel, after that a Seth and to him was borne Enos; at which time men began to call upon the name of the lord 
Gen. 4.26  After that Enoch that walked with God, one that was the Phoenix of that age, 
Gen. 5.24  one that was translated out of his own being, into a being in God, one that lost nothing, by losing what was his own by noture and according to the flesh. After this God left not himself without testimony; Though the wickedness of man was great in the earth and the whole earth was corrupt before God, 
Gen. 6.9.  yet then appeared Noah a just man and perfect in his generations, 
Gen. 6.9.  and one that walked with God, on that gave up himself to God, to be at his direction and at his service to do what was agreeable to the will of the Lord. And as the world was replenished, and grew on, though there were many wicked men and much wickedness in the world, yet some God had that were good, though very obsure and hardly to be perceived in those dark times. At length appeared Abraham, after him Jsaac and Jacob with other worthies, and when Elijah complains of the world's emptiness in respect of good men, and that he alone was left, yet God tells him he had seven thousand in Israel that had not bowed the knee to Baal. I confess ' its a very few considering how many thousands were in Israel, yet you see there were some though hide and concealed in those cloudy days of Idolatry and superstition. 
1 King. 19.18.  God may let men follow their own pernicious ways, and there may be a great forsaking of goodness, yet some shall cleave to truth, though it may be but a few, 
Isa. 6.13.  a tenth. There may be many weeds in a garden, yet some good herb may be found; abundance of trees in a field, yet some corn; a world of earth, yet some veins of precious oar; a great deal of clay, of dirt and stones, yet some pearls and precious jewels are now and then found. God hath excellent material, here and there, he will bring them together, and of them make a famous structure; build his Church, 
Isa. 54.12, 13.  whose foundations shall be laid with saphires, whose windows shall be made of agates, and gates of carbuncles & all her borders of pleasant stones. This points out the excellency of Saints, and also what a comely thing it is to see them joined together in a right order, by the wisdom of God. God hath a holy City to build, which is admirably described Revelations, 21. My brethren I need not tell you how Satan the world flesh, and many enemies, have laboured to root out in all ages those that clearly and readily appeared for God, yet God hath preserved some to shine as lights, and to hold out his name, and enemies could never so prevail as to raze out all the Saints nor to take away truth wholly; but still the Lord continued some precious ones, some holy and excellent souls to shine out as lights in a dark place; a seed was left, though covered with clods, that the Lord hath nourished, and which through his blessings hath sprung up, and brought forth fruit, so that some peecious souls have still appeared. We have seen bad times, and bad times are, and 'tis likely will be, yet all you that have any knowledge in the things of Christ, cannot but say some holy souls there were, in those bad times; some there are in these evil days; and some precious ones shall be as long as the Sun and Moon endureth as long as there are any people in the world there shall be some good: you that live now meet with some precious souls up and down, here and there: you or they that shall live hereafter will find that God hath a sprinkling some, a few: I shall speak to what is present, to what is in hand, there are some precious souls in the world.  
Reas. 1 There are some in the world that are like Christ, they have such a life, such graces, such excellency, there life is Christ within, ' it's Christ living in them, their wisdom is Christ, their righteousness Christ, their justification, sanctification is Christ; Christ to such is all. Believers are translated into Christ, they are one with Christ, they are nothing in themselves, self is passed away, they have a new self, Christ is their selfe, they have an entire being in Christ, yea God himself is within such, and from union with God is there likeness to God, and their preciousness is from enjoying God. God makes that precious that is precious; precious souls are God's workmanship. Look upon Saints after the flesh, and in outward appearances, you cannot it may be say they are so precious, but consider them as in Christ and Christ in them. Look upon Christ alone in them; and boubtles Christ will in them be precious; 
Magna quidem in Ecclesia Dei excellentia: sect ea non sunt omnibus obvia.  many see not this excellency in Saints because 'tis hidden. Christ in them is hidden from many; but where Christ appears, the souls of such according to what of Christ is seen, appear precious.  
There are some that are loved as Reas. 2 Christ, loved with the same love, the same pure, free, entire love that Christ hath, given out from the Father, they have given out to them, running into them, shining upon them, these are precious. Love is that which doth beautify souls, souls are fair as loved, excellent as loved, glorious as loved. There is exceeding bravery and beauty in a soul that hath much of love; what made Christ so prized so highly esteemed, the chiefest of Ten thousand; but the abundance of heavenly love that was in him: the more there is of heavenly love the more excellent. 'Tis not Nobleness of birth, beauty of face, greatness of parts, much learning that makes men precious, but 'tis being borne of God, endued with grace, partaking of spiritual things and what is heavenly that makes one precious. 
Tantus quisque est quantus est apud Deum.  As one saith of the worth of a man, he is so much worth, as he is worth in God's account; so I may say he is so far precious as partaking in love, as enjoying that which the world doth not. A precious stone is a stone that hath a virtue & excellency which the common ordinary stones have not: so 'tis with precious, rare, excellent souls, they have somewhat the men of the world have not, & that is love, 
Rev. 2.17  the same love that is given out to Christ. The worth of this love none knows but they that enjoy it.  
There are some in whom the Lord dwells, some in this word that are his temple, palace, throne: these are excellent ones. God's dwelling place, the dwelling of his glory is a precious place: they are precious souls, souls bravely adorned, souls excellently trimmed that are the court of the great God. Prince's houses are richly furnished: so are the souls of Saints, God's houses. There are some that put out all their might, strength, power, abilities, advantages for Christ's cause, for what concerns him, and what is his. These are precious souls, Paul was a predious soul & it appeared in his appearing so much for Christ, that he was not deterred by labours, stripes, imprisonments; 
2 Cor. 11  tedious Journes, perils of waters, perils of robbers, perils by his own countrymen, perils by strangers, perils in the city, perils in the wilderness, perils in the sea, perils amongst false brethren, weariness, painfulness, much watch, hunger, thirst, fasting, cold, nakednessed; 
Rom. 8. Omnia praesentia futura, terrena, caelestia, inferna & supercaelestia, omnia mihil parva, & pro nihilo erant etc. buc, Act. 15.  all could not stop, this champion of truth; Let death life, Angels, principalities, powers, height, depth, any thing oppose: he for Christ, in the strength of Christ durst stand against all. So also the curch of Jerusalem, giving answer to the people and church of Antioch concerning what had been proposed unto them, tells them in their letters that they had sent it by men that had hazarded their lives for the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Such as these are precious men, souls worthy the name of Christians: because valiant for Christ. I have read of one Romanus that was nobly born, yet so resolute and stout was he for Christ, that sufferings could not fright him, nor dismay him, when his persecutors whipped him with a whip made of cords that had leads fastened at the ends; so that with whipping his flesh was torn, yea and so much torn that his very bowels were seen, yet he cried out to his tormentors; that he desired not to be spared, neither did he wish his tormentors to give over, 
Christum diligit, seipsum o●…it.  he was wiling to suffer to the utmost in the cause and for the truth of Christ. It is reported of one Sames a noble man, who had and maintained a thousand servants of his own yet was deprived of all his estate by the King of Persia, and was compelled to serve one of the most abject and base of his own servants to whom the King of Persia gave the said nobleman's wife, that by this means he might cause him to deny the faith. But he not at all moved kept his faith, 
See Burroughs in Moses self. denial, where you have many examples.  stuck close to Christ, willingly did he undergo all this wrong and indignity for Christ. Many such precious souls have been in the world, many there are, and if persecution should arise even to death, it would be seen that there are Gallant-spirited men now that would suffer any torments rather than forsake the Lord Jesus. They would not hearken to what flesh and blood should say, 
Verus Christi-discipulus propriae voluntati renunciat, et divinam voluntatem sequi desiderat etc.  but to what the spirit should say, and they would strive against what is evil in themselves, and search what the will of the Lord is and obey that. 'Tis the part of a good steward that is entrusted with much of his master's substance, to lay out all for his master when his master requires it: the best of us all are but Stewards and what we have of life, parts, beauty, riches, honour, liberty, any thing, 'tis lent us of God; if God call for it, we ought to give it all up for his service and honour. You that have truth of grace will be ready so to do, saying, Lord all I have I received from thee, it came of thee: Io here I am ready to return all to thee. My dear friends, consider what you do now for Christ, what heart you have to what is good now, what delight in Christ's services now: you are likeliest to hold out in suffering; that are diligent in the business of the Lord, and in the work of your God now. Some men think they can suffer for Christ, yet now they have no heart to the present service of Christ, which God calls unto, they are negligent and lose in present duties; Surely such souls who fail thus in present service and duty, are not like to hold out in suffering times whatsoever they may say; He that in summer and fair weather is a slothful, careless, idle servant; is not likely to be a diligent laborious paines-taker in the cold, pinching, wet, stormy time of winter. They that are bred up in labour are best able to endure it. 
1 Tim. 4.7 Non ocio indulgendum, sed totis viribus eonnitendum.  Christians, excercise yourselves unto Godliness; do what God now sets before you; do it faithfuly, do it with your might; you will the better endure harder business if your God call you to it. They are men endued with a precious blessing, that use their all to the glory of God, that let not a hough be idle or unserviceable.  
Reas. 5 There are some that are cleansed and made free from all unrighteousness and uncleanness, 
Ps. 32.1.2  that have no wickedness imputed unto them: these are blessed souls; these are precious souls; Christ paid a full price for their deliverance from sin, making peace through the blood of the cross: they are by Christ brought home to Christ, their life is hid with Christ in God, they are raised up with Christ, and made to sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus, even already. Indeed in themselves there is a body of lust, corruption and sin; and there is a law revealing sin, accusing and condemning; so as it believers live only by sense, reason and experience of themselves, and as they live to men, they live both under the power and feeling of sin and the Law; but if they live by faith in Christ, believing in the life, righteousness, obedience, satisfaction and glory of Christ, they live out of the power of all condemnation, and unrighteousness. This is a precious life, and they are precious souls that live this life of faith, that have all their assurance, confidence, comforts, flowing into them through a channel of faith, believing themselves happy for what another, even Christ, hath done for them, and not what they have done or can do for themselves. In brief they are precious, for take them as in Christ, as justified, they are as pure in the sight of God as the righteousness of Christ can make them, because God sees his only in Christ, not in themselves, he loves them not in the glory and excellency of Christ; these appear glorious to God and in his sight, because they have put on Christ that is glorious. There are as many precious souls now, as there are souls clothed with the righteousness of Christ: they that were precious formerly, and could say, As he is, so are we in this world; they were such by having Christ, by being perfect in his perfection, they were chosen in Christ, loved in Christ; they that are in Christ are precious now, and may say, As he is, so are we in this world. All believers are very like one another, and also like Christ.  
Reas. 6 There are some that are the Sister, Spouse, Wife of Christ, that have ravished his heart, that he rejoiceth over, as the Bridegroom over his Bride; these doubtless are precious. A precious Christ, will have a precious Consort: He is an excellent one, and will have his Wife, his Love, his other-self, to be precious also: Christ glorious, his Spouse glorious; Christ beautiful, his Love beautiful; they are alike; Bridegroom and Bride alike; their trimming is of one piece and fashion, the righteousness of God.  
It may be a word of comfort and consolation Use 1 to such that live in places where they can find no good people, none that they can take comfort in, none that are lovers of truth, none that delight in the things of Christ. 'Tis sad to Saints spirits to live in such places, 'tis irksome to a man as a man to live in a place where he can have no society, no company, fellowship with none: so with Saints to live where they can have none to confer with, none to discourse withal, none to join with them in prayer and fasting, and holy communion: To such let me speak, it may be you can find none for society, none that are gracious; yet be assured God hath some. When the Prophet cried out he was alone, and that he could see none but Idolaters, none but what went on in wickedness; yet God saw some that were free, some that were haters and loathers of Baal, that had never bowed the knee to him. The Lord hath here & there some, that are precious souls: Be not disheartened christians, be not dismayed, there are I acknowledge many briers and thorns, yet there are some Lilies; many weeds, yet some (though but a few) precious flowers; you may find none in great houses, there may be some in cottages, none in silken garments, there may be some in rags, none on the high places of the earth, yet there may be some in the valleys; 'Tis indeed a thing to be bewailed, that there should be such multitudes of men and women, in the world, and so few of them good, so few gracious. 'Tis sad to see a throng in the way to hell, men pressing forwards to destruction and to everlasting perdition, and to see but now and then one going towards glory, towards everlasting salvation. Wickedness hath many that own it, and wicked ways are full of footsteps; but for goodness 'tis not looked upon, nor the ways of goodness travelled in: holiness is become like a poor man, 
Cognatus pauperi nullus. Diviti cognatus est quilibet.  none cares for being of his kindred or acquaintance; but wickedness like the great men of the world have many followers. This is a trouble to Saints to behold, yet as there may be by a Traveller some Englishmen found in a remote country, though but a very few in comparison of the Natives: so some heavenly souls, some newborn christians here in the world; though but a few in respect of what are are earthly and born only after the flesh. As a man may rejoice much in finding one piece of gold, or some one precious stone: so if you find but some one that is Godly, yet be comforted in hopes that there are more, though you for present know them not. And rest assured that there are precioos Saints in this age in the world, as well as in former ages, and that you shall meet them all in glory.  
It may give you some hint who they Use 2 are, that are such precious souls, such rare Creatures, such jewels; souls like Christ; holy as Christ is holy, pure as Christ is pure, that are excellent here upon earth, that are Kings and reign in life by one, even Jesus Christ,  
1. They are such that enjoy a Christ within, that have Christ himself dweling in them, many dwell where Christ dwelleth, and so content themselves, never considering whether Christ dwell in them, we have nothing nor are worth nothing if Christ be not in us; all that a man hath perish and fail, and come to nothing if he hath not Christ. 'Tis Christ that is the souls all, he is the only good, and the only lasting good and such souls may be said to have some thing that have him, yea all things; but they that enjoy him not, have nothing, they have no oil in their lamps: and being so, will be shut out and not enter with the bridegroom into joy. But now all are ready to say they have Christ in them: have you so? examine your souls; are they delighted with Christ? is Christ that which delights you? doth Christ give peace? doth Christ draw your hearts heaven-wards? lovers whose hearts are delighted with one they love, how are they drawn towards such places where they may enjoy their love. Love is a loadstone drawing souls to Christ. We cannot forbear, we cannot abstain from longing to be in more full enjoyments of Christ if so be that Christ be in us. Christ is the great, the infinite good that is given out to men: they rejoice infinitely that have this infinite good, their portion; they that have Christ have him that is good beyond compare, and this is he that makes souls precious. There are as many precious souls in this congregation as there be souls enjoying Christ. And there are so many enjoyers of Christ, as there are lovers of Christ, that love him as their own souls, as their own lives nay much better then either. There are many that talk of loving Christ but their love to Christ is but such as the hosts to his guest, he is bid welcome more for his money sake, then for any desire of communion, and fellowship. If they may gain by Christ, they will wait on him, if not they will be strange to him; you that talk of loving Christ, what do you know of Christ? 
Ex aspectu nascitur amor.  love riseth from knowledge, what have you seen of him? have you seen his beauty, seen his glory, seen his comeliness? He is altogether lovely; have you seen this loveliness? have you tasted of his love? love is mighty in ' its operation love, the love of Christ coming in, 
Socrates putat animam immersam corpori, velut expergisci amoris stimulis, etc.  stirs the soul wonderfully, it rouseth it up, it sets it a work for Christ. Love produceth action, it sets men upon difficulties, and makes them go through hardships: doth Christ's love do so with you, try, you may know if you deal faithfully in this thing; you know who dwells in your house, much more in your hearts, you know why you do this and that; what is it of all you do, that you do for Christ, and that from the life of Christ: Paul was precious in his actings and precious in himself, and all was by Christ that lived in him; as many of you, as have received Christ, are happy; Consider well of it, whatsoever you are outwardly in appearance in form, in possessions, in friends, etc. I speak not of, 'tis nothing; you are precious if you have Christ within, precious children, precious souls, precious Saints, all of you precious, all of you jewels that have Christ.  
2. They that are precious are such whose iniquities are hid and whose sins are done away, such in whom the Lord sees no guile, such that are holy, such that are nourished and carried in the bosom of the mercy and goodness of God.  
Obj. But is not every soul a sinner? do not all complain of their corruptions, weaknesses, failings errors, & c?  
Ans. A Christian man is both righteous and a sinner, holy and profane, an enemy of God, and yet a child of God; for a christian man by the force of his natural corruption may do such things as the word of God forbids, and as he himself as spiritual abhors. Paul himself did many things which were repugnant to the law of God; therefore he had cause to say, he was not already perfect. 
Phil. 3.12.  Scriptures are not altogether silent as concerning Abraham, Jacob, Rebeccah, Sara, Moses, Job, David, Hezekiah. All good and godly souls take them as Saints, and walking after the Spirit, yet take them as in the body; and sometimes they did not alone do good things unperfectly, and leave some good things undone, but also do some evil actions, 
See Rom. 7, etc.  which were directly repugnant to the rule of God's law, and to their own renewed mind; thus may they be still sinners unholy in respect of their failings, weaknesses, imperfect sanctification, or sanctification in part, but take them as justified, believers and in Christ they are righteous, holy, just: the sin which they slip into is not laid to their charge, but is done away for Christ's sake in whom they believe, whose righteousness is their righteousness, and their sin, Christ's sin; 
 Christus fuit peccator, ita nos just● sumus.  His by imputation, who is most just and innocent of himself, yet was the curse and punishment imposed upon Christ, to whom sin was imputed, that all believers may be reputed before God, by virtue of Christ's righteousness, holy and perfect as righteousness itself. Thus you see how souls may be said to be sinners; take them as in themselves and in the flesh, so sinners; take them as reconciled to God, as having Christ's righteousness imputed to them, and beheld of God in that, so without sin, without guile, no sinners, but holy pure, undefiled, beloved of God, blessed Saints,  
3. They are precious souls, precious in this filthy, ungodly, sinful, wicked world, that from grace coming in act in ways of grace and holiness without, that let the inhabitants of the world be wicked, follow their Prince the Devil, yet they will walk in holiness, following the Lord Jesus Christ the Prince of peace, and King of righteousness. God in all ages hath some to witness to his glorious truths, so in this age; some that are taught of the Spirit, led of the Spirit, that mind the things of the Spirit, that have the Spirit of God dwelling in them, and by the power of that Spirit in dwelling do mortify the deeds of the body, and are raised up, and quickened by the Spirit of God within, to walk in righteousness & true holiness, to serve God and own his cause, though the world with them that dwell therein oppose; they are excellent souls that appear for God in bad times, in the worst of times, yea when 'tis not alone a hazarding their names to disgrace and shame, but their bodies to be torn in pieces, to be burnt to ashes. You that, are acquainted with scripture and history may see every age, every year bring forth some such gallant spirits, that were ready to lay down their lives to undergo any cruel, vile, shameful death for the name of Christ, and the testimony of Jesus.  
4. They are precious, for they that are faithful and chosen, that are such as Christ is, continue good, let all the world be bad. A precious soul is an excellent Theophilus, and will appear so, let others be never so bad, let them be enemies to God, fighters against God. Times are bad now, and like for a while to be worse, yet there are precious Christians: so some there will be as long as the world continues that shall shine out as lights in the world, 
Phil. 2.15  that will be without rebuke in the midst of a crooked and perverss nation, that will run right on towards glory, let whose will run cross, that will keep their garments white, though others be soiled. I commend such to you souls, for precious Christians, for precious Saints, that abstain from all appearance of evil, that in heart and soul and life, clear to and follow after what is good.  
Use 3 Love those precious souls that Christ esteems precious, nay that Christ hath made precious, that are before God precious, that are the dear beloved of his soul, that are honourable ones, that are borne of the will of God, that are attended on by Angels, that are for a short time placed in the world and shall ere long be received into glory; let your delight be placed on those excellent ones, let your eyes be on them that God's eyes are on, your heart towards those that God's heart is towards: good children are apt to respect those they see their parents love; if you be true children, rightly descended of the Royal line of heaven, you will eye the outgoings of your father's love, and as Bees settle where the Queen settles, so will you where God; upon what family or soul the Lord hangs his love, you will hang yours; where God delights to be, you will delight to be all so. Consider I pray who you love, what sort of people it is you most affect, whether it be carnal, worldly, unregenerate men, or holy heavenly, regenerate Saints.  
Do you now desire to know God's jewels, Use 4 to be able to discern of these precious ones, to say such are Gods children, such are the friends of Christ, like Christ? you must have the life, spirit, wisdom, knowledge of Christ, you must be taught of God, to know who are Gods, like God. Paul persecuted the precious Saints of Christ, and was a deadly foe and enemy to them, till such time as he was endued with wisdom from on high, till God shone upon him, yea into him; and then knowing Saints he associated himself with them, and was no longer hurtful but helpful. Many a soul is a sore and grievous enemy to the people of God; I am persuaded much of their enmity ariseth from this, because they know not Saints, they are ignorant what glorious ones they are, in what a high esteem they are with God, how God will punish them that wrong them. Ignorance of Saints makes them slighted, reviled, defamed, accounted as the filth of the world, and the off scouring of all things. 'tis want of knowing the worth of a Jewel that makes it not prized; so of a Saint, that is a member of Christ, a child of God. The God of wisdom give you wisdom to know such that are holy, that are Princes of the bloud-Royal of heaven, and to give them such respect that is due, and reverence as belongs to them. This none can do but such as have the spirit, this you will do if the Lord give out the spirit of truth to guide you in all truth: if heavenly light shine into you, that light shining in, will discover and manifest to you the children of light, and whosoever you can find walking heaven-ward, you will be glad of their company. Ignorance had a hand in kill Christ, and it hath some hand in all the wrong is done to Saints; the Lord free you all from it, lest ye should through ignorance harm the darlings of God, and bring swift damnation on yourselves. God hath grievous threaten in Scripture against Saint-wrongers, and there are recorded some heavy punishments that have been inflicted on them that harm the righteous; God keep you from the sin, and so from the suffering. I might add how beneficial 'tis for you to know who are Saints, and how much for your souls advantage to be acquainted with them, but I omit it.  
Happy are you that are of the number of these jewels of God, of these preciout Use 5 one's. I do not know what your condition is in respect of outward things, and creature-enjoyments; but I can safely say you are a happy people, if precious, if such as Christ, you shall all be laid up in glory shortly. God will not lose one of his jewels for a world: Heaven and earth shall perish, but no Saint, never a precious soul, not a jewel that belongs to the crown Royal of glory. These rare souls, these souls to whom Angels do service, that are carried in the arms, in the bosom, in the heart of God, that are singular souls, chosen out from among thousands by royal favour, s●ch in whom the eye of God can see nothing amiss, no defect, no excess, no presence of sin, no absence of grace. Oh precious souls! These shall be preserved, Christ hath been at much cost about such souls, at more cost then about any thing, at more cost then about all the world besides: he made the world and lost never a drop of blood, it caused him never a groan, but to make souls (such as they ought to be) holy; it cost him many a sad suffering, he spent his heart blood in the work; he took a great deal of pains to perfect them, happy you that are the workmanship of Christ, his workmanship as a Redeemer; that have your souls fashioned by him to be like himself, but are made new creatures, holy souls, blessed Saints.  
6. Christians, you that hear me, consider part of your duty as Christians, as men of God, as Saints; you should labour for a Spirit of discerning, to be able to judge between men and men, to know the holy and profane asunder, to know a Saint and a Devil, a gracious soul and a carnal wretch, a jewel from a common stone, a true Diamond from a counterfeit. God laid this as a necessary thing to be acted by Jeremiah, 
Jer. 15.19.  to know, yea to separate the precious and the vile asunder; the not doing, this was charged as a sin upon the Priests in Ezekiel. 
Ezek. 22.26.  Her Priests have violated my law, and have profaned mine holy things; they have put no difference between the holy and profane, neither have they shown difference between the unclean and the clean; this may be laid at the doors of the ministers of the Gospel also, that put no difference between, sheep and goats, lambs and wolves, Saints and sinners: are they parishioners, let them be drunkards, swearers, gamesters, whoremasters, all are admitted to the Sacrament, never considering whether the word warrants it and whether within the list of Christ: 'tis enough their houses stand, within such a bundary of ground. Look to it you that must give account to God, take heed what you do, how you cast Pearls before swine, give the children's bread to dogs, admit them to your Master's table that are not of his family; it concerns you much all of you that are Godly to know men rightly, that so you may not associate yourselves with the enemies of God, but with the Saints of God, not join yourselves with the assembly of mockers, but with such that praise God; not go in company with such that are Traitors to the heavenly King, but with his obedient subjects; not frequent the society of enemies of truth, but with the friends of truth; skill is required in all work, especially in Gospel work. 'Tis needful for men to know the mystery of their trade, to know what ware is good, what bad; so is it needful to be such experienced Christians as to know what is for the good of our souls, what for their hurt, to know their friends and foes asunder. We strive to know good money and bad asunder, a true jewel from a counterfeit, gold from dross; why then should we not strive to know precious souls from sinful wretches, lilies from thorns, herbs from weeds; Christians 'tis your duty to look to what may tend to the welfare of your souls; let it appear in this that you are careful by having no fellowship with the workers of iniquity, but as much as may be with the precious sons of Zion, with such that are precious Saints. I might speak more of this Use, showing how you ought to labour for a spirit able to discern between tares and wheat, between the children of Christ and the children of Satan, between them that fear God, and them that fear him not; and all this, 

In respect of God,  
In respect of Good men,  
In respect of Wicked men,  
In respect of Yourselves.    
God guide you into all knowledge by that spirit that searcheth all things, and is able to reveal all things.  
I have now but one Doctrine more to present to you, and I have finished what I shall at this time speak from the Text in hand, it is this,  
Let the places and times be never so bad, Doct. yet they that are Christ's are like Christ; wheresoever truly gracious, Saints shall come, what times soever they may meet withal, whatsoever shall befall them, yet they lose not their virtue, they are Saints still. take a jewel, wear it upon your finger or in your bosom, 'tis a jewel, lay it up in a box it remains a jewel, let it lie in the dust 'tis a jewel, nay if it should be cast ou●●o the dunghill it would be a jewel there, though covered with neis ver so much filth; So may I say of a wherein Christian, a blessed Saint, one that the Image of Christ: A little tablet Christ is drawn, if it be set on high, 'tis a Saint there, if imprisoned a Saint, if cast out as the offscouring of all things, 'tis as virtuous then as at any time, 
Non abiicit aminum.  'tis the same for virtue, for worth, for excellency when 'tis abased, as when it was exalted, it looseth nothing by evil times, by sufferings or disgraces, or any thing befalls it. 
Non cedendum malis. Acts 14.  Glod will be gold in the fire, in dross, amongst counters. Paul is Paul, when at Lystra they would have honoured him as one of their Gods; he is the same when in prison, the same in his bands and fetters as when free and at liberty, the same before the Magistrates as with mean men; in every place gracious and striving to magnify the Lord. Daniel is as holy, as excellent in the court as in the Lion's den, and in the Lion's den, as in the court. Mordecay is not altered within, though his habit be changed without; he had the same grace within when he walked a foot and was clothed in sackcloth as when he road upon the King's hor●… clothed with Royal apparel, and the Crown Royal on his head, and had his enemy that wicked Haman his herald. The three children were the same in the furnace as when they were over the affairs of Babylon: Moses in the court, and Jethros shepherd; when he was reverenced as Pharaobs' Grandchild, and when he was Jethros son in law, was faithful, though inwardly changed, yet not outwardly; he was the same Saint in the field and in the court. The time would fail me to bring out what might be shown unto you from the word of truth in the Scriptures, and also from many unquestionable Histories, concerning souls that have manifested their sincerity in all conditions, both in exaltation and in abasement, in honour and dishonour, in good report and bad report, when they have flourished in the world, and when they have been at the place of execution, fire and faggot hath not dismayed them, the fire hath consumed the dross, the flesh; not the pure part, the soul: Christ was Christ in them, both in life and death. There are some trees are green all the year, in summer and winter, in heat and cold in frost and snow, 

Non timent fulgura & tempestates, in & cendia aquarum ●astiates, tristes planetarum configurationes, & luminarium coelestium obscurationes, quia super naturam evecti, Christo in recumbunt, in Christo vivunt.  
Non abstrahitur blanditiis seculi, quia audit in suavio rem vocem. Christi.   so some souls always like Christ. Let the times be what they will, let the face of the world alter yet they change not, let the world be turned upside down yet they stand upon their legs, they are right let all the world be wrong, they like Noah's ark float upon the waters let all be under water; Let there be troubles below in the world, here on earth, they care not: Let there be terrible apparitions above and starry messengers portending sad events, they are not afraid of such evil tidings, they have a resting place in Christ, Christ is to them for safety, for preservation, every way a defence and a comforter; they change not, they altar not. Let the ship turn which way it will the needle of the compass will stand North, let the world turn about never so much they stand directly towards Christ, and look heaven-ward: when other trees are without leaves and fruit they have both; when others; cool, they continue hot; when others sparks go out, their light shines. When the hypocrisy of others to their shame is manifested, and they perish: The sincerity of the Saints appears, and they flourish. Christ's people have a mark by which they are known, let them be never so much disguised, and misnamed by the world, Christ was God when the world abused him, though the world knew it not; Saints are like Christ, though under great sufferings, As he is, so are they in this world.  
Christ is unchangeable, so are Saints, Reas. 1 Christ is the same to day and for ever, so are Saints, so far as Saints, enjoying Christ. Their light, life, holiness, etc. in respect of Christ the root continues, other men's light shall go out, but the light of Saints shall never go out, it shall shine more and more unto the perfect day. The light in them is everlasting, 'tis Christ in them, they shall ever live, because Christ their life shall live for ever in them. Nothing is able to deprive them of Christ, and therefore not of life; Christ is in christians. Sin, law, wicked men, Devils, all the principalities, powers of darkness, spiritual wickednesses that are in high places cannot pluck him out, nor destroy the habitation of Christ. Now Christ makes his dwelling like himself, every soul is holy like Christ, in whom Christ dwells. Let it be wheresoever Christ pleaseth, it will be holy, holy in prosperity, holy in adversity, holy in a Palace, holy in a Prison, holy every where, take it according to the spirit, and as it hath Christ within.  
Reas. 2 Because they that are Christ's have another self in them, their old self is done away, they have a new self, a spiritual self, that is God himself in Jesus Christ: there is a discovery and removing of the rottenness of old self, and another self is tendered, yea revealed, given in to souls, which is God himself, and he is the Saints righteousness, they are possessed of God, and have God dwelling in them. Now I pray is not God the same in all places? and will not God who is the life and righteousness of Saints make them appear the same, let them live in times and places that are never so subject to change? This is that which is worthy admiration, that God should become the life and righteousness of such creatures as men are; and men by this means should be such excellent creatures, that their excellency cannot be done away.  
Reas. 3 Because times of suffering, times of tribulations, 
Rev. 7.14  times of persecutions are to them but as purging times, cleansing times, washing times. The body may be purged, yet continue a body still, the man may have an il humour removed, yet remain a man. A house may be cleansed yet be a house, clothes may be washed, the filth taken away, and the clothes be clothes; gold may be cast into the fire, the dross consumed; yet the gold be never the worse, so Saints may be Saints, 
Aurum probat ignis: fidem, tentatio.  and like Christ, though they suffer many tribulations. Christ in troubles apprares to them, and from that appearance that they have of him, they appear his. Saint's glory is hidden, it this follows not that therefore they have no glory. We must not say, there is no Sun because the clouds hid it from our sight. They that have Christ have glory, and they do and shall appear glorious. Clouds, viz. afflictions, persecutions, and tribulations shall fly away, and then shall their glory more clearly appear. Now there is much of Christ appears in Saints in a low condition in the world, as long suffering, patience, strength to undergo trials and the like. Time's may a little change somewhat of the outside of a Saint, but it cannot take away the substance of a Saint.  
Let what hath been said be ground for reproof to such that are apt to blame times and places for making them bad, etc. O say they we had not been so bad, we had not run into this evil, nor into that, had we not lived in such a wicked place, had we not been acquainted with such vile company, it was such and such that were the occasions of our running into that bad course of life, of our taking such headlong ways, and leaping into such a gulf of mischief. We will not much question such complaints, whether just or unjust. I confess 'tis dangerous living in bad places, and in being familiar with naughty people, much mischief may they occasion to souls, yet it makes not people blameless to lay the fault upon the times or places they have to do in, this frees not from God's displeasure. Adam laid the blame on his Wife, she on the Serpent, yet this freed neither from suffering. A Thief that hath stolen may plead his poverty, and say he was in need, yet may he be punished and suffer what by law is to be inflicted upon one guilty of such a crime: So an unclean person may say, had he not been guilty of folly had he not been enticed and solicited. We might speak in infinitum in this case, and after this manner, and yet will not the offendor be found innocent. It were more just for faulty persons to lay the blame on their own corruptions, and evil hearts; for times and places would not make them bad, were not they bad. Joseph had a fair bait cast before him, yet not taken. Much grace may preserve men from evil in the worst times and places. Cast gold into mud, yet will it keep its colour and worth; so a jewel in a coal-heap, yet will it retain its virtue. A Saint will be a Saint let him be amongst Devils. God's people ought to keep a daily watch over themselves, especially when in bad company, and as much as possibly they may refrain from their sosciety, because many a good soul hath been spotted amongst such. I need not bid wise men beware of houses infected with the plague, nor good men of sinful places, they know as the one is dangerous to the body, so the other to the soul. Remember, it acquits not sinners to say that Adam sinned, and had not he fallen they had not been thus tainted, nor so prone to evil; grace is offered by, Christ, and they that will be saved, must by faith lay hold on his righteousness; if not, they will be inexcusable at the last day, and perish Eternally.  
1. 'Tis not enough for men to say that they are flesh, and that the flesh lusteth, & draweth to evil, and over masters them. Now will that which the Devil prompteth into men (help them when they must give up their account to God) that 'tis with them as with Paul, it is no more we that do it, but sin that dwelleth in us, or as it fell out of David or Lot, & c? first to Answer that of Paul, consider who he was, and of what sins he spoke. Paul was a holy and a Godly man, a chosen vessel of God, can you say you are so? can you say Christ is revealed in you? that you encounter all temptations to the utmost of your spiritual abilities? besides 'tis shameful to bring such a speech from Scripture to patronise a course of wickedness, which is used by the Apostle concerning some secret and privy infirmities. Do not deceive yourselves; God is not mocked. Take heed of using Scripture as a stumbling-block, and let not that which was left for the good of Saints hasten your damnation.  
2. As to the sins of David and Lot, I shall not speak much now, you may by them see how apt the best are to fall, and so to take heed: do not any of you cast yourselves into the Sea, because Jonah was not drowned. By them may comfort be spoken to Saints, if God should let them be so fare fooled by Satan as to fall into such faults. Much more might be said as concerning them, but I forbear; the Lord in mercy hold up our go that our footsteps slip not.  
2. 'Tis not safe turning our iniquities to the times, and to the places where we live, and the wickedness of men with whom we converse, this will not make a passage to glory. The worse the times and places are, the more careful aught we to be; the more cheats are abroad, the more should we look to our purses. If the air be generally infected, had we not need to be so much the more thisful of using preservatives? But of care already.  
3. There are some that accuse their callings for what they do amiss: they cannot read and pray because of their callings, and their callings make them break the Sabbath. Pray lay not the blame upon what deserves it not, your callings, if honest, were never ordained for your soul's hurt, but for their good: such that complain of their callings, yet can find time from their callings to eat and drink and sleep, visit friends, and follow recreations and the like, that concerns their bodies.  
4. Some accuse their poverty, saying, we have not time to serve God; all we can do is to provide for our families, know this to be Godly helps towards thy family provision: So they cannot show themselves charitable they have not wherewithal. Can you not remember the widows two mites, & how accepted? Besides these, some lay the faults upon their occasions, upon the objects they meet withal, upon Satan, upon fortune, any where rather than on themselves to be humbled; Let this reprove you; sin no more, lest God consume you; for were you good, nothing should draw you to wickedness; you would say to all temptations, how should I do this or that and sin against my God?  
Would you know Christ's people? they Use 2 are such that in bad times are good, that own truth when they must suffer for it, that are willing to die clasping truth in their Arms, or rather they clasped in truths Arms; that let multitudes meet them going to hell, they will thorough the throng to heaven; let wind and tide be against them, they will forwards; that are dismayed with no frowns, nor daunted with no sufferings. That are no milksops of fearfulness, 

Oportet aut manentem vincere, aut interire.  
Lacedae. monii hoc animo praelium inibant, ut aut victores redirent domum aut victi occumborent,   but Champions of courage, that will not desert Christ's cause, but manfully fight the good fight of faith, yea die in the battle rather than yield; for so it becomes true Christians, to conquer or die, to go through in what they have a warrant from Christ to undertake, or else for Christ's sake and cause to lay down their lives. 'Tis reported of the Lacedæmonians, that when they went to wage war, and joined battle with any, they did it with this resolution, that they would go home conquerors, or die conquered. All true, and gallant-spirited Christians are of such a spirit in whatsoever they undertake for Christ, being called to it by Christ, 
Pons a tergo abruptus est.  they know there is no flying away without everlasting shame. To desert Christ's cause, is an endangering of the soul to be deserted of Christ. Besides to fly from Christ is to go from him that hath all safety, from him that is strength, from him that the Psalmist speaks highly of, 
Psal. 144.  yet not as he deserves; the words are these, My goodness, and my fortress, my high tower, and my deliverer, my shield, and he in whom I trust. Here are expressions holding out Christ, according to what the soul could, and as we are capable of hearing, and understanding. 'Tis to show that God is all in all to Saints, he gives in comfort, he guards and protects from dangers: this is enough to make any man valiant, to have divine power encouraging him, divine power comforting, divine power guarding, divine power at all times and upon occasions to help; how can such souls be conquered? 'Tis impossible; for he that is so divinely accommodated is ready to venture all he hath in the cause of Christ. A Christian endued with divine power, is ready and able also to live and die with an Almighty Saviour; Christ to him is enough, Christ alone is all, he looks still on Christ, and observes him, what Christ says, he says; what Christ does, he does; let all the world take what course they please, do what they will, neglect Christ, go contrary to Christ, persecute Christ, yet still the Saint that hath God for his strength, God for his shield, God for his instructor, shrinks not, is not disheartened: but holds on his way for truth, in despite of all that oppose truth, and though never so much slighted of truths foes, it cares not, 'tis satisfaction and encouragement enough to him that truth defendeth, favours him. Christ hath all his affection, and he hath from Christ all power to do what Christ calls him to, & through Christ that strengthens him he can do all things. By the power and strength of Christ, he is carried up on high, above sense, above reason, above the world: he is raised above fears, above frowns, his soul like Jehosaphats is lifted up in the ways of God. 
2 Chro. 17.6.  Christ puts in a holy magnanimity, insomuch that in Christ's cause it fears neither fire nor sword, cross nor loss, breaking of bones, tearing of members, men or Devils, so it may be one with Christ. In a word a soul that is truly Christ's, borne of him, living to him is one, whom neither poverty nor death, nor bonds, nor any outward Evils can terrify. Oh! souls you that this day hear me, what will you do in bad days? what in persecuting days? in the days that fiery trials come? will you then own truth? will love to Christ make you cleave to Christ? suffer for Christ? die for Christ? if it doth, then may it be said, that you are Christ's, and that you are no changelings; but true bred spirits, children of God in bad places and times like Christ. The Lord grant that though friends fail, riches fail, times altar, peace should be removed, yet your faith may not fail; but that you may be baptised with the baptism wherewith Christ was baptised, though a bloody baptism, and so being like Christ in life and death, you may be like him in glory.  
Use 3 Were I in a more public place, I might speak a word to the Parliament, the great counsel of the Kingdom; exhorting them & praying them to have a care of such that are godly, of such that are like Christ, to deal well with them, to preserve them, & make provision for them; for they shall be sure of the help of them, whilst they stick to Christ, the Saints will stick to them. We have seen a miserable defection by abundance of men, I will not say all, but doubtless most have fallen off, because they were not like Christ, and did not cleave to Christ. I shall forbear speaking in this place what I might, were the auditory suitable; Good men are too much slighted many times, and bad men over much favoured, 
Equidem Jehova contempum effudit in Principes.  God hath in a great measure cast them out with shame, that were not friends to his precious Saints, but rather to the adversaries. I trust God will give the Parliament a heart to cast their eyes upon, (and have respect of) such that are the called, the faithful and chosen of Christ. Whosoever deserts this Parliament, the Saints will never, unless they forsake Christ, which God forbidden. If the Parliament should be in straits, Saints will go in with them, if they should be opposed, Saints will help them, with body, soul, estate; their purse, prayers, strength shall help; If they should meet with bad times the Saints would stand with them in the storm. I fear, if the Parliament should have the need of any hereafter, they will find few closing faithfully with them, but what are the faithfully of Christ. Methinks I hear a secret muttering amongst many, that are ready to say, if troubles come, the Parliament will have but few to take their parts, few that will join with them; to such whisper I shall give a loud answer: if the Parliament follow Christ and take his part (as I trust they will) they shall be sure of the Saints, all Christ's friends, and have they these, I believe they need not care who is against them, or what opposition they meet withal, no though all the people of the earth be gathered together against them. 
Zach 12.3  Let the Parliament set up Christ and favour those are Christ's, and then if all the Nations of the world were gathered together against them, they need not fear; for Christ would help them and take part with them; and if he be of their side they need not fear what man can do unto them: for Christ will make their enemies fall before them. God will make our Parliament-worthies such to all their enemies, 
Isti incredibili ardore atque successu gentes omes de bell a●unt, & subjicient vel potius stirpitus cacindeut, Zach. 12.6.  as is spoken of the Governor of Judah, they shall be like a hearth of fire among the wood, and like a torch of fire in a sheaf. And they shall devour all the people round about, on the right hand and on the left. All that oppose them shall be but as a little wood laid on fire, or straw put upon fire coals, which would soon be consumed. God grant the Saints may be favoured & they that are truly godly be respected and cared, for by the Parliament; & then I doubt not of their flourishing, and having friends to side with them, for they shall have all the faithful, and they are (through God's blessing many. If this come to any of those worthies sights I pray God it may be a means to advise them, to have a care of Christ's people, and then let them be sure those people of Christ will have a care of them; And though they must venture all, nay die; they will stand with them. God grant our Parliament-worthies may consid, ere that though they have not the most with them, yet they have the best, though the Saints be least for numebr, yet they are the strongest for might, and such that can though but a few, subdue many, five shall chase an hundred, 
Leu. 26.8  and an hundred shall put ten thousand to flight. Great hath been the experience that this Kingdom hath had of the Saints victories; of those that went against their enemies, 
1 Sam 17.45.  as David against Goliath in the name of the Lord of hosts. Keep close together Saints, keep with the Parliament, 
Deus favet justis & piis consiliis.  and then I doubt not but all will be well, for God will bless the proceed of goodmen in a good cause; and what better cause can be taken in hand, than what is now in hand in England, the bringing Christ to his Throne?  
Let me conclude all with a word of consolation to such that fear bad times, and that have spirits troubled with the various toss in the world, and defections of men from truth, and other molestations that are all ready in the world, and that they fear will come on to the further grief and suffering of Saints. Indeed there are troubles, the days are evil; times bad, and 'tis likely may be worse; yet be sure of this, they that are Christ's people will continue his people, they that are gracious there will be some good still, in sad times, in the worst times, some that in assured hope and confidence of God's mercy in all necessities and tribulations, cleave to the truth; knowing that God's power is Almighty, his promises, most true; his mercies, infinite; and that 'tis for their souls everlasting happiness to follow Christ, let what sufferings soever come, yea though they lose their lives. There are a remnant that are enlightened, and from that enlightening they know what is best to be embraced, they know that whatsoever of troubles come now, yet to all that are in Christ, that are like Christ, that love his appearing, there will bereavest, there will be peace; there will be blessedness; there will be glory. Those that are engrafted really into Christ, will by virtue received from Christ flourish. Bad times make not them bad, they will be good in any times, in any company, in any place. If exalted, good; if abased; good; if rich, good; if poor good; if in distress, good; if in prosperity, good. Christ was a precious Christ in every condition, and they precious Saints in every condition. I know not what the times may be, but I know what they that are Christ's will be, they will be like Christ. As some trees continue green in every season of the year, in winter and summer, in heat and cold: so some men good in all times, they are no changelings, they are steadfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the lord 
Immobiles sunt super solido fundamento Christo Dominum, in ipsum sincera fide & perfecta recumbertes.  Let others totter, they stand; others shake, they are unmoveable; others fall; they rise, others be idle, they Labour; others be against God, they are for him. Consider of this I pray, and let it cheer up your spirits. I know you are apt to say times are so bad you know not whom to trust all ready, men are so deceitful & wicked and if they should be worse you know not what to do, nor what will become of you. Christ comfort you and encourage you, and let what will happen in the world, and let whose will desert you; if he never leave you nor forsake you, you will do well enough, you will be brought at the last to glory. You may receive comfort in hopes of meeting with some friendly souls, some Saints in the most naughty times; but suppose you be left alone, and there be none to be found, yet in this be glad, in this rejoice, in this be comforted, that you shall find Christ, and he will be to you instead of friends, and helpers, and companions, he will be all to you. The Lord grant that none of you be disheartened, nor fall bacl, nor ashamed of the Gospel of the Lord, but that you may bear witness to the testimony of Jesus; and of this be confident your labour will not be in vain, nor any suffering unrewarded that is undergone for Christ and his truth. Christian friends, whatsoever may make for your comfort I pray God give it you, let it be peace within, good company without, the benefit of ordinances, any mercy, that so you may be Christ's, and continue like Christ, let places, times, men, the world with what is therein be never so bad.  
FINIS.